Optical-Fiber Adapter With Integrated Power Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LC-type optical-fiber adapters lack additional functionalities beyond optical signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
An optical-fiber adapter design incorporating a conductive module with conductive terminals and a base component, allowing for both optical signal and electric power transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional LC-type optical-fiber adapter is used, then optical signal transmission is achieved, but additional functions such as electric power transmission are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines optical signal transmission and electric power transmission functions into a single adapter body. The adapter integrates optical fiber receptacles for light signal transmission and conductive terminals for electrical connection, allowing both functions to coexist in one device without requiring separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as both an optical connector for signal transmission and an electrical connector for power transmission. The universal design allows the same adapter housing to accommodate both optical and electrical connection requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conductive terminals are added to enable electric power transmission, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter internally segments different transmission paths: optical fibers are positioned in specific receptacles for light transmission, while conductive terminals are arranged in designated areas for electrical connection. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each function's pathway without interfering with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes spatial arrangement within the adapter body to accommodate both optical and electrical components. Conductive terminals are positioned in specific regions (such as side walls or base areas) while optical fibers occupy central receptacles, creating a three-dimensional layout that efficiently packs multiple functions without excessive complexity.
3Reliability
If positioning structures are added for conductive terminals, then transmission stability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter includes pre-formed positioning structures such as positioning holes, guiding rails, and engagement protrusions that are integrated into the adapter body during manufacturing. These features are prepared in advance to guide the correct placement of conductive terminals and optical fibers, ensuring proper alignment and stable connection before final assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Positioning structures act as intermediaries between the adapter body and the conductive terminals/optical fibers. Features like engagement protrusions on the adapter body mate with corresponding recesses on the terminals, providing mechanical guidance and securing the components in their correct positions during assembly and operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical-fiber adapter (100) includes an adapter body (1), a base component (2), and a conductive module (3). Two ends of the adapter body (1) respectively have a first mating side (11) and a second mating side (12), four side walls of the adapter body (1) define a first receiving cavity (10a) and a second receiving cavity (10b). The first mating side (11) of the adapter body (1) has a first insertion opening (111) in communication with the first receiving cavity (10a), and the second mating side (12) of the adapter body (1) has a second insertion opening (121) in communication with the second receiving cavity (10b). The base component (2) is retained between the first receiving cavity (10a) and the second receiving cavity (10b). The conductive module (3) includes a plurality of conductive terminals (32). One of two ends of each of the conductive terminals (32) is in the first receiving cavity (10a), and the other end of each of the conductive terminals (32) is in the second receiving cavity (10b).