Stackable Fiber Optic Adapter With Interlocking Sidewalls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber optic adapters with metal mounting plates occupy more space and do not efficiently reduce the overall dimensions when stacked, limiting their use in data centers that require compact and efficient data transmission solutions.
Innovation Solution
A stackable adapter design featuring partially open sidewalls with recesses and protrusions that allow for horizontal stacking, reducing the width of adapter arrays by at least one-third compared to standard adapters, and incorporating anchor or latch structures to secure fiber optic connectors, enabling optimized optical performance and reduced space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If conventional adapters with metal mounting plates are used, then structural stability is ensured, but the overall width of adapter arrays increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple adapters into a stacked assembly where adapters are vertically stacked and interconnected through integrated mounting structures. This merging eliminates the need for separate metal mounting plates for each adapter, reducing the overall width of the adapter array while maintaining structural stability through the interconnected stackable design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a horizontal side-by-side adapter arrangement to a vertical stacking configuration. By organizing adapters in the vertical dimension rather than horizontal placement, the overall width of the adapter array is significantly reduced while the metal mounting plates provide structural support for the vertical stack
2Area of stationary object
If metal mounting plates are used for each adapter, then individual adapter stability is maintained, but the overall dimension of adapter arrays increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal mounting structures that serve multiple functions: the metal mounting plates provide structural support for individual adapters while simultaneously enabling vertical stacking and interconnection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting components for each adapter, reducing the overall dimension of adapter arrays without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structures are merged with the adapter bodies, creating integrated assemblies where the mounting plates are part of the adapter unit itself. This integration reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall device complexity while maintaining structural stability
3Area of stationary object
If standard side-by-side adapter placement is used, then installation simplicity is maintained, but space efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent arranges adapters in a vertical stack configuration rather than horizontal side-by-side placement. This dimensional change from horizontal to vertical arrangement significantly improves space efficiency by utilizing the vertical dimension, while the standardized stacking interfaces maintain installation simplicity through straightforward vertical assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A stackable adapter having opposing ports configured to accept differing fiber optic connectors along a longitudinal axis. The stackable adapter is formed from opposing partially open sidewalls having a recess and a protrusion opposite one another near a top edge and bottom edge. Mating two stackable adapters forms a stackable adapter assembly with stackable outer sidewalls for reducing the width of an array of two stackable adapters by at least one-third over placing two standard adapter side-by-side in the panel.