Two-Piece Fiber Optic Connector and Adapter for High Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber optic cassettes can only accommodate a limited number of optical fibers due to their design, restricting the connection density and requiring larger adapter spaces for even fewer fibers.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece fiber optic connector and adapter system that triples the number of optical fibers accommodated in the same space by using a first portion with passageways for ferrules, latches for secure engagement, and a second portion with alignment projections and ferrule openings, allowing for the installation of three duplex connectors on each side, while reducing snagging risks with a folded latch design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single adapter is used with traditional design, then the adapter structure is simple, but only two LC connectors can be accommodated limiting fiber routing to 12 fibers
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is divided into a first portion and a second portion that can be separately assembled. The first portion contains alignment projections and receives multiple connectors, while the second portion contains corresponding recesses and alignment features. This segmentation allows the adapter to accommodate more connectors (increasing fiber capacity) while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second portions of the adapter are nested together through interlocking features including alignment projections, recesses, and engagement mechanisms. The connector assemblies are nested within the adapter portions, with multiple connectors arranged in a compact configuration. This nesting approach maximizes the number of fibers that can be routed through the limited cassette space
2Quantity of substance
If adapter size is reduced to increase connection density, then more fibers can be accommodated in the same footprint, but the risk of fiber snagging increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter incorporates localized structural features such as rounded internal corners, smooth transition surfaces, and properly positioned alignment projections that guide fibers through the compact space without creating snagging points. The first and second portions are designed with specific surface qualities in critical areas to protect fibers while maintaining high connection density
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter uses three-dimensional arrangement of connectors and internal routing paths to maximize space utilization. By organizing connectors in multiple layers and using vertical space effectively, the adapter achieves high connection density without compromising fiber routing safety, reducing snagging risks even in a compact footprint
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional LC connectors are used, then compatibility with existing systems is maintained, but only two connectors per adapter are supported
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed with universal compatibility features including standard alignment projections, conventional connector interfaces, and retrofittable installation methods that work with existing LC connectors and systems. Simultaneously, the multi-port configuration of the first and second portions enables the adapter to support multiple connectors (beyond the traditional two), increasing both versatility and fiber capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter incorporates dynamic engagement features such as spring-loaded latches or snap-fit mechanisms that allow for easy insertion and removal of connector assemblies. This dynamic design enables flexible configuration where connectors can be added or removed as needed, adapting the system to various deployment scenarios while maintaining compatibility with existing LC connector standards
Data Source
AI summary
A two-piece fiber optic connector and a corresponding two-piece adapter allow for the tripling of the optical fibers that can be used with a standard fiber-optic cassette. The two-piece fiber optic connector has a fold-over latch to engage the adapter. The two-piece adapter has at least one latch to engage the standard fiber-optic cassette to retain the two-piece adapter and the fiber optic connectors in the adapter within the cassette. This allows for the retrofitting and/or continued use of the standard fiber-optic cassette.