Low Profile SC Optical Fiber Connector Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical fiber connectors have a large profile and complex assembly processes due to multiple constituent parts, which hinders the achievement of ultra-high density cabling with low loss budgets in data centers.
Innovation Solution
The development of low profile optical fiber connectors with fewer components, specifically an SC type connector design that includes a ferrule, plug frame, and outer housing with a custom-sized boot, eliminating the need for a spring and utilizing a chamfered plate and tabs for secure engagement with an adapter, resulting in a reduced protrusion from the adapter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional optical fiber connectors with multiple constituent parts (including spring) are used, then reliable connection is achieved, but the connector profile becomes large and assembly process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the spring component from the connector assembly, extracting only the essential elements (ferrule, plug frame, outer housing) needed for reliable connection while eliminating the space-consuming spring mechanism that contributed to large connector profile
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates multiple functions into fewer components. The plug frame combines positioning, retention, and alignment functions that were previously distributed across multiple separate parts including the spring, resulting in a more compact design with reduced profile
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional optical fiber connectors with multiple constituent parts are used, then connection stability is maintained, but the number of parts increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple components into integrated assemblies. The plug frame serves as a unified structure that combines positioning features, retention mechanisms, and alignment guides, reducing the total part count while maintaining connection stability through the coordinated design of these integrated features
Solution Approach 2:
The outer housing is designed to perform multiple functions: it protects the internal components, provides structural support, enables adapter engagement, and facilitates alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity
3Strength
If conventional optical fiber connectors are used, then adequate protection is provided, but the protrusion from adapter exceeds 2mm hindering ultra-high density cabling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes unnecessary protective elements that extended the connector profile beyond 2mm, retaining only the essential protection provided by the outer housing and boot, thereby achieving ultra-low profile while maintaining adequate protection for the ferrule and internal components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible boot that provides protection through material properties rather than rigid structural extension. This flexible shielding maintains protective capability while occupying minimal space, enabling the connector to protrude less than 2mm from the adapter
Data Source
AI summary
Low profile optical fiber connectors comprising a ferrule, a plug frame configured to receive the ferrule, and an outer housing configured to receive the plug frame. The outer housing may be configured to protrude less than about 2 mm from one end of an adapter when the low profile optical fiber connector is inserted into the adapter. The connector may include a boot sized such that the boot protrudes from the end of the adapter by less than about 15 mm. The low profile connector does not contain a bias spring to urge the ferrule forward out of plug frame housing.