Stackable Fiber Optic Adapter With Removable Flange Clips
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber optic connection systems lack efficient and modular solutions for aligning and connecting multiple optical fibers, particularly in high-density configurations, which limits their adaptability and scalability in telecommunications applications.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic adapter assembly with a housing that includes a slot structure for receiving removable flange clips and panel clips, along with a support structure for stacking adapters, enabling vertical stacking and secure interconnection of multiple adapters using snap-fit connectors, allowing for flexible configuration within conventional footprints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fiber optic connection systems are used, then basic connectivity is achieved, but high-density configuration and scalability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is divided into modular components: a base adapter, stackable adapter units, and removable flange clips. Each adapter unit can be independently configured and stacked to create high-density connections. The flange clips can be removed and reattached to different adapters, enabling flexible reconfiguration without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional horizontal or planar adapter arrangements to a vertical stacking configuration. Multiple adapter units are stacked vertically one on top of another, utilizing the vertical dimension to achieve high-density fiber optic connections within a compact footprint, thereby improving scalability without increasing horizontal space requirements.
2Quantity of substance
If high-density fiber optic configurations are implemented, then connection density increases, but adaptability and ease of reconfiguration decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The flange clips are designed to be removable and reattachable, transforming a static high-density connection system into a dynamic one. Users can remove flange clips from one adapter unit and reattach them to another, enabling easy reconfiguration of connection paths while maintaining high connection density. This dynamic design allows the system to adapt to changing network requirements without physical restructuring.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular stackable adapters are used, then scalability and flexibility improve, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple adapter units are designed with identical standardized interfaces and stacking mechanisms. The base adapter and stackable adapter units share common structural features, allowing them to be manufactured using the same tooling and processes. This merging of design elements across different adapter types reduces manufacturing complexity despite the modular flexibility provided.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter units are designed with universal stacking interfaces that work across all adapter types in the system. A single adapter unit design can serve multiple functions: it can be used as a standalone adapter, stacked with other identical units, or combined with different flange clip configurations. This universality simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of unique parts that must be produced.
Data Source
AI summary
In one implementation, a connection system includes an adapter block assembly (130, 160) and methods for making thereof. In one aspect, the adapter block assembly (130, 160) includes a plurality of adapters (20), each of which having a slot structure (50). The adapter block assembly 130 can be built by providing a support structure (100) having a plurality of extension members (102) that engage with the adapter slot structures (50). In one implementation, a flange clip (200, 220) is removably inserted into the slot structure (50), wherein the flange clip (200, 220) has a second width (W3, W4) that is greater than first width (W1).