Optical Connector Threadable Ferrule Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical connectors are difficult to assemble at external work sites due to the small size of the ferrule and susceptibility to dust or external forces, which complicates the connection between the ferrule assembly and the holder.
Innovation Solution
The optical connector design includes a ferrule assembly with a flange and male screw, a holder with a female screw, and a housing for optical fiber insertion, utilizing a threadable engagement mechanism facilitated by an assembling jig for secure alignment and rotation, allowing for fusion splicing and easy assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a ferrule assembly is fitted into a holder at external work sites, then the optical connector can be assembled, but the small size of the ferrule makes it difficult to handle and susceptible to dust or external force
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate components (ferrule assembly and holder) that can be handled independently. The ferrule assembly with its flange and screw mechanism can be manipulated as a single unit, reducing the risk of dust contamination compared to handling the small ferrule separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange acts as an intermediary structure between the ferrule and the holder. It provides a larger surface area for handling and a mounting interface for the screw mechanism, mediating the connection between the small ferrule and the holder while protecting against dust and external forces.
2Ease of operation
If a threadable engagement mechanism is used between ferrule assembly and holder, then assembly is simplified, but additional components (screws, flanges) are required
Solution Approach 1:
The flange is merged with the ferrule assembly, and the screw mechanism is integrated into this flange structure. This combining of elements reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining the threadable engagement functionality that simplifies assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange serves multiple functions: it provides a handling interface, a mounting surface for the screw mechanism, and structural support for the ferrule assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design significantly simplifies the assembly process, increasing work efficiency at external sites by ensuring accurate and secure engagement of the ferrule assembly with the holder, overcoming previous difficulties in fitting and protecting against environmental factors.
Implementation Method 1
a first screw is formed on the ferrule assembly, a second screw that threadably engages with the first screw is formed on the ferrule assembly holder, and the first screw and the second screw are threadably engaged with each other
Implementation Method 2
a step of fusion-splicing the optical fiber inserted into the housing to the embedded fiber
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connector and a method for assembling the optical connector with which the optical connector can be easily assembled are provided. An optical connector includes a ferrule assembly including a ferrule that holds an embedded fiber, a sleeve that holds the ferrule assembly, and a rear housing that is connected to the sleeve and through which an optical fiber that is connected to the embedded fiber is inserted. The ferrule assembly is fixed to the sleeve by threadably engaging a male screw of the ferrule assembly with a female screw of the sleeve.