Optical Connector Screw Cap Assembly Yield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical connectors require a dedicated tool for assembly, making the process cumbersome and prone to errors, and once the caulking member is fixed, it is difficult to detach, leading to issues with assembly yield.
Innovation Solution
An optical connector design featuring a housing with a screwable fixing cap that integrates tension bodies between the housing and the cap, eliminating the need for a dedicated tool and allowing for easy reassembly if the tension bodies are insufficiently fixed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated tool is used to fix the caulking member, then the tension bodies can be securely fixed, but the assembling operation becomes troublesome and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the dedicated tool-based mechanical fixing system with a screw-threaded connection system. The fixing cap engages with the fixing portion through screw threads, allowing standard screwdrivers or manual twisting to secure the tension bodies without requiring specialized caulking tools. This substitution maintains secure fixing while dramatically simplifying the assembly operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw portion and fixing cap create a self-fixing mechanism where the operator can directly secure the tension bodies by simply screwing the cap onto the fixing portion. The structure itself provides the fixing mechanism without needing external dedicated tools, making the assembly process self-sufficient and easier to perform.
2Reliability
If a caulking member is used to fix tension bodies, then the connection can be established, but it becomes difficult to detach the caulking member once fixed
Solution Approach 1:
The screw-threaded connection between the fixing cap and fixing portion creates a dynamic, reversible fixing mechanism. Unlike permanent caulking that requires destruction to remove, the screw connection can be easily unscrewed and reattached multiple times. This allows operators to detach and reattach the fixing cap if tension bodies are insufficiently fixed, improving repairability without compromising connection strength when properly tightened.
3Ease of operation
If the fixing structure is made simple without screw portions, then the assembly process becomes easier, but the connection strength and reliability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fixing structure into two functional segments: the screw portion on the fixing portion and the corresponding threading on the fixing cap. This segmentation allows the connection strength function to be handled by the threaded engagement while the overall assembly process remains simple. The screw mechanism provides reliable strength through thread engagement without requiring complex additional 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
The design simplifies the assembly process, reduces the number of assembly steps, and enhances the connection strength, improving assembly yield by allowing for easy reattachment of the fixing cap if necessary.
Implementation Method 1
The outer peripheral surface of a fixing portion is provided with a screw portion. While tension bodies leading from a terminal of an optical fiber cable are interposed between a housing and a fixing cap, the fixing cap is screwed onto and fixed to the fixing portion.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connector that is assembled onto a terminal of an optical fiber cable including tension bodies. The optical connector includes a housing, a ferrule that is provided in the housing, and a fixing cap that is mounted on the housing. The housing includes a fixing portion of which an outer peripheral surface is provided with a screw portion. While the tension bodies leading from the terminal of the optical fiber cable are interposed between the housing and the fixing cap, the fixing cap is screwed onto and fixed to the fixing portion.