Removable Connector Cartridge for Optical Test Instruments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical test instruments face issues with connector wear and contamination, leading to inaccurate measurements and the need for costly repairs, as existing solutions like 'saver cables' are impractical and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A removable connector cartridge system for optical test instruments, featuring a cartridge with a fiber optic cable and connectors that can be easily replaced without tools, ensuring the integrity of the instrument's optical ports and reducing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If repeated connection and disconnection of fiber connectors is performed, then the test instrument can be used for multiple measurements, but the connectors and optic fiber interfaces wear out over time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the test instrument into two segments: a permanent main body containing the optical port and a removable connector cartridge. The connector cartridge can be detached and replaced when worn, while the main instrument remains intact. This segmentation allows the connectors to be replaced independently, maintaining instrument reliability while preserving productivity.
2Ease of operation
If the test instrument connectors are exposed, then connection to DUT is easier, but dust, particles or oil contamination can affect the interface
Solution Approach 1:
The connector cartridge acts as an intermediary between the protected instrument interior and the external environment. It provides a controlled interface that can be easily connected and disconnected, minimizing exposure time of the optical port to contaminants while maintaining ease of operation. The cartridge protects the main instrument's optical port from direct exposure to dust and contamination.
3Reliability
If saver cables are left connected to preserve connectors, then connector wear is reduced, but the solution is unpractical and improper cables can be mistakenly connected
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a static saver cable solution, the invention provides a dynamic removable cartridge system that can be easily swapped. The cartridge can be connected when needed and removed when not in use, providing operational flexibility. The standardized cartridge design prevents mistaken connections through proper mechanical interfaces, while preserving connectors through controlled replacement rather than permanent connection.
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
An optical test instrument, in combination with a removable connector cartridge is provided. A method of replacing a damaged or worn optic fiber interface is also provided. The optical test instrument has casing having a cartridge receiving cavity therein with an inner end provided with a test instrument optical port; and an outer end provided with a cartridge receiving opening. The connector cartridge is sized and configured to be inserted in the cartridge receiving cavity. The connector cartridge has a cartridge inner end for facing the test instrument optical port when in use, and a cartridge outer end for receiving an optic fiber from a device under test (DUT). The connector cartridge houses a fiber optic cable extending between the cartridge inner end and the cartridge outer end. The connector cartridge is removably connectable to the instrument casing to allow replacement of the connector cartridge when the cartridge outer end is worn or damaged.