Optical Multiport Flexure Securing for Compact Fiber Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multiports for optical connections are bulky and inflexible, occupying excessive space and requiring complex coupling mechanisms, which limits their deployment in tight spaces and raises aesthetic and organizational concerns.
Innovation Solution
The development of multiports with integrated connection ports and securing features that allow direct insertion of fiber optic connectors, eliminating the need for threaded or bayonet couplings, thereby reducing footprint and enabling compact, dense, and organized arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional threaded or bayonet coupling mechanisms are used for fiber optic connectors, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the threaded or bayonet coupling mechanisms from the fiber optic connector system. The connector housing directly receives and secures the fiber optic connector without requiring separate coupling components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining connection reliability through direct integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of the connector housing and the coupling mechanism into a single integrated structure. The housing itself provides both the structural support and the securing function, eliminating the need for separate coupling components and reducing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple receptacles are mounted on a housing for hardened connectors, then optical connection capability is improved, but housing volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where fiber optic connectors are received directly within the housing structure in a compact, space-efficient manner. The connectors are integrated into the housing volume rather than requiring external mounting, allowing multiple connections within a reduced overall housing volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the spatial arrangement of multiple receptacles by utilizing three-dimensional space more efficiently within the housing. Rather than linear or surface-mounted arrangements that increase footprint, the design employs vertical or multi-level positioning to accommodate multiple connectors within a compact volume.
3Reliability
If conventional multiport housings are designed for outdoor deployments, then environmental durability is improved, but flexibility for mounting and space utilization worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates dynamic or adjustable mounting features into the housing design, allowing the multiport to be adapted to various mounting configurations (wall-mounted, pedestal-mounted, rack-mounted) while maintaining the rugged outdoor enclosure. The housing can be configured for different installation environments without compromising environmental durability.
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 solution provides compact, robust, and aesthetically pleasing optical connections that can be deployed in tight spaces with increased port density and improved organizational efficiency, addressing space and aesthetic challenges in optical networks.
Implementation Method 1
the actuation of the securing feature deflects a flexure to secure the fiber optic connector in the connection port
Implementation Method 2
The securing feature includes a cam surface that, when rotated, acts upon the flexure
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Multiports having connection ports with securing features that cooperate with flexures and methods for making the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a multiport comprises a shell, at least one connection port, at least one flexure and at least one securing feature. The at least one connection port comprises an optical connector opening and a connection port passageway, and the at least one flexure is associated with the at least one connection port. The at least one securing feature is associated with the at least one connection port, where the at least one securing feature cooperates with the at least one flexure.