Pre-connector for FTTH Drop Cables with Modular Snap-Fit Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for laying drop cables in FTTH networks are time-consuming and require high technical expertise, with complex assembly processes for outdoor optical fiber connectors that are difficult to assemble and require professional devices.
Innovation Solution
A pre-connector with a modular structure comprising a connector component and an outdoor component, featuring a ferrule base, spindle, and handle sleeve, which simplifies the assembly process by allowing the outdoor component to be easily sleeved onto the optical cable, providing a locking force and improved sealing through elastic sealing sleeves and snap-fit connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional splicing method is used with optical fiber splicer, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and technical requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable pre-connector that integrates the connector body, sealing components, and locking mechanism as a single-use unit. This eliminates the need for expensive, complex optical fiber splicers while maintaining connection reliability through factory-prepared precision components that are discarded after single use.
Solution Approach 2:
The pre-connector is designed to be self-assembling through snap-fit connections and automatic locking mechanisms that require no external equipment. The connector automatically seals and locks when installed, eliminating the need for professional splicing devices and technical expertise.
2Strength
If traditional splicing method is used, then connection strength is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body, sealing sleeves, and locking mechanisms are pre-assembled and pre-sealed in the factory before shipment. This preliminary preparation eliminates on-site assembly steps, allowing installers to simply attach the pre-fabricated unit to the optical cable, dramatically reducing installation time while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions (connection, sealing, locking, and protection) are merged into a single integrated pre-connector unit. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate splicing operations and multiple components, reducing both installation time and the number of steps required to achieve a strong, reliable connection.
3Ease of operation
If modular structure with multiple parts is used, then ease of assembly is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pre-connector is segmented into distinct functional modules (connector body, sealing sleeves, locking mechanism) that are manufactured separately and then pre-assembled in the factory. This segmentation enables easy on-site installation through simple snap-fit connections while the factory pre-assembly manages the complexity of coordinating multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing sleeves and locking components are nested within the connector body in a compact arrangement. The second sealing sleeve is positioned inside the first sealing sleeve, and the locking mechanism is integrated within the connector housing, reducing overall complexity while maintaining modular assembly capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
This application provides a pre-connector and a communications device. The pre-connector includes a connector component and an outdoor component. The connector component includes a ferrule base and a ferrule that is slidable relative to the ferrule base. The ferrule base is configured to fasten the optical cable, and the ferrule is connected to an optical fiber that is of the optical cable and that is inserted into the ferrule base. In this way, the optical fiber can be connected to the communications device by using the ferrule. The outdoor component includes: a spindle that is sleeved on the ferrule base and that is fastened to the ferrule base; and a handle sleeve sleeved on the spindle. The outdoor component is used as a connecting piece to be detachably fastened and connected to the communications device, so as to provide a locking force used when the communications device is connected.