Optical Multiport Connection Inserts for Compact Push-In Retention
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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 compact environments and raises aesthetic concerns.
Innovation Solution
A multiport design featuring a shell and a connection port insert with integrated retention and securing features, allowing direct insertion of fiber optic connectors without the need for threaded or bayonet couplings, enabling compact form factors and high-density port arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional multiports use separate receptacles mounted through housing walls with threaded or bayonet couplings, then robust optical connections are achieved, but the housing becomes bulky and requires excessive surface area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the receptacle and adapter sleeve into a single molded unit that is directly formed within the housing wall, eliminating the need for separate mounted components. This merging of functions reduces the surface area required while maintaining the robust optical connection capability through the integrated retention features.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter sleeve is nested within the receptacle structure, with the connector housing fitting inside the adapter sleeve which is itself integrated into the receptacle. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional elements to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, reducing the overall footprint of the housing.
2Reliability
If conventional multiports use separate receptacles with threaded or bayonet couplings requiring rotation, then secure connections are achieved, but the device becomes inflexible for mounting in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rotational coupling mechanism (threaded or bayonet couplings) from the connection structure and replaces it with a direct push-in retention system. The retention features engage automatically when the connector is inserted, providing secure connection without requiring rotational movement, thus enabling mounting in tight spaces where rotation is difficult.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring active rotational motion to secure the connection, the invention uses passive retention features that automatically engage when the connector is pushed in. The securing action is inverted from an active rotational process to a passive automatic engagement process.
3Productivity
If conventional multiports use large receptacles arranged in arrays on housing walls, then multiple connection ports are achieved, but the housing becomes excessively bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional array arrangement of receptacles on the housing surface to a three-dimensional integrated structure where multiple receptacles are formed within the housing wall thickness. This dimensional change allows multiple connection ports to be packed into a smaller overall volume by utilizing the depth dimension of the housing wall.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple adapter sleeves and retention features are nested within the integrated receptacle structure, allowing multiple connection ports to share common structural support elements. This nesting reduces the total volume required for housing multiple ports by eliminating redundant structural components.
4Ease of operation
If conventional multiports use separate mounted receptacles, then individual connection ports can be accessed, but the overall device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple receptacles, adapter sleeves, and retention features into a single integrated molded structure. This merging reduces the number of separate components and assembly steps while maintaining individual accessibility of each connection port through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated receptacle structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support, defines the connection interface, incorporates retention features, and structures the internal routing. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate components for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
Multiports comprising a connection port insert having at least one optical port along with methods for making are disclosed. One embodiment is directed to a multiport for providing an optical connection comprising a shell and a connection port insert. The shell comprises a first end having a first opening leading to a cavity. The connection port insert comprises a body having a front face and at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from the front face into the connection port insert with a connection port passageway extending through part of the connection port insert to a rear portion, where the connection port insert is sized so that at least a portion of the connection port insert fits into the first opening and the cavity of the shell.