Optical Multiport Sliding Actuator for Compact Deployment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional multiports for optical connections are bulky and inflexible, making them unsuitable for compact spaces and aesthetically unappealing, while also requiring significant space for rotation-based coupling mechanisms that hinder quick and easy deployment in outdoor and indoor applications.

Innovation Solution

The development of devices with sliding actuators that engage securing members associated with connection ports, allowing for compact form factors and easy optical connector insertion/retention without the need for rotation-based coupling, enabling dense port arrangements and quick connections in limited spaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional multiports use separate threaded or bayonet coupling mechanisms for hardened connectors, then reliable optical connections are achieved, but the housing becomes excessively bulky and requires significant space for rotation operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptical connection reliabilityVSAvoidhousing volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the rotation-based coupling mechanism (threaded or bayonet coupling) from the connector assembly and replaces it with a linear sliding actuator mechanism. This removal of the rotational coupling component eliminates the need for rotation space while maintaining connection reliability through the sliding engagement of the actuator with the securing member.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent substitutes the mechanical rotation-based coupling system with a linear sliding mechanical system. The sliding actuator moves linearly along the longitudinal axis to engage and disengage the securing member, replacing the rotational motion required by threaded or bayonet couplings. This substitution maintains mechanical reliability while dramatically reducing the space required for operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If conventional multiports mount multiple receptacles on the housing wall, then optical connections are protected indoors, but the housing becomes bulky and inflexible for compact spaces

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptical connection protectionVSAvoiddeployment flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a dynamic sliding actuator mechanism that allows the securing member to transition between engaged and disengaged states along the longitudinal axis. This dynamic linear movement replaces static rotation-based coupling, enabling the connector to be quickly deployed and secured in compact spaces without requiring the housing to be bulky or inflexible.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If conventional hardened connectors use rotation-based coupling, then secure connections are achieved, but significant room is required for grabbing and rotating the coupling by hand

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector securityVSAvoidquick connection ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the conventional coupling approach by replacing rotation-based engagement with linear sliding engagement. Instead of rotating a coupling mechanism around the connector axis, the sliding actuator moves linearly along the axis to engage the securing member. This inversion of the coupling mechanism eliminates the need for hand grabbing and rotating operations, enabling quick and easy connector deployment while maintaining secure connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS12019279B2Multiports and other devices having optical connection ports with sliding actuators and methods of making the same

Publication Date: 2024.06.25 CORNING RES & DEV CORP

AI summary

Devices such as multiports comprising connection ports with associated sliding actuators that engage securing members 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 sliding actuator that engages with a complimentary securing member. 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 member is associated with the connection port passageway and translating the sliding actuator allows the release of an optical connector disposed in the connection port.