Optical Multiport Securing Features for Compact High-Density Connections

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional multiports for optical connections are bulky and require significant space for mounting multiple receptacles, posing challenges in limited spaces and affecting aesthetics, while existing compact designs still face issues with space consumption and organizational complexity.

Innovation Solution

Devices with connection ports featuring a securing feature that allows for quick and easy optical connections without the need for turning coupling nuts or bayonets, utilizing a resilient member and modular adapter sub-assemblies for compact and reliable connectivity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional multiports with multiple receptacles mounted through a wall of housing are used, then robust optical connections are achieved, but the housing becomes bulky and consumes significant space

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptical connection robustnessVSAvoidhousing volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The device divides the housing into multiple portions with connection ports distributed across different surfaces, allowing compact arrangement while maintaining multiple robust connections. Each portion can be independently optimized for its connection requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Connection ports are positioned on multiple surfaces of the housing rather than all on one wall, utilizing three-dimensional space more efficiently. This dimensional distribution reduces the footprint while maintaining connection capacity and robustness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple receptacles are mounted on the housing for hardened connectors, then optical connection capability is improved, but the device complexity and organizational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptical connection capabilityVSAvoidorganizational complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The housing structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical protection, organizes multiple connection ports, and enables both hardened and soft connector connections through different port types. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate organizational components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

All connection ports are given equal access and positioning on the housing surface, allowing uniform organization and simplifying the installation and maintenance process. Each port can be accessed without navigating complex internal structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #12Equipotentiality

3Reliability

If connection ports are positioned to accommodate hardened connectors with coupling nuts or bayonets, then reliable optical connections are achieved, but the space consumption and footprint increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptical connection reliabilityVSAvoiddevice footprint

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The securing features are integrated within the connection port structure itself, with resilient members and locking mechanisms nested inside the port housing. This eliminates the need for external coupling nuts or bayonet structures, reducing footprint while maintaining connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The securing feature is merged with the connection port structure, combining the functions of connection and retention into a single integrated component. This eliminates separate securing mechanisms and reduces overall device footprint.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables compact form-factors with increased port density, allowing flexible deployment in tight spaces and improving aesthetics while maintaining robust and reliable optical connections.

Implementation Method 1

at least one securing feature resilient member for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12571977B2Multiports and other devices having optical connection ports with securing features and methods of making the same

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 CORNING RES & DEV CORP

AI summary

Devices such as multiports comprising connection ports with associated securing features and methods for making the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, the device comprises a shell, at least one connection port, and at least one securing feature. The at least one connection port is disposed on the multiport with the at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the multiport to a cavity of the multiport and defining a connection port passageway. The at least one securing feature is associated with the connection port passageway, and is biased by a resilient member.