CA1172079A - Fiber optic connector having a self-centering, floating insert - Google Patents
Fiber optic connector having a self-centering, floating insertInfo
- Publication number
- CA1172079A CA1172079A CA000397062A CA397062A CA1172079A CA 1172079 A CA1172079 A CA 1172079A CA 000397062 A CA000397062 A CA 000397062A CA 397062 A CA397062 A CA 397062A CA 1172079 A CA1172079 A CA 1172079A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- insert
- alignment
- fiber optic
- connector means
- disc
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 49
- 238000007667 floating Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 26
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 38
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 239000013307 optical fiber Substances 0.000 description 9
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 description 8
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000004593 Epoxy Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004026 adhesive bonding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229920004943 Delrin® Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012858 resilient material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010561 standard procedure Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
- G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
- G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
- G02B6/381—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs of the ferrule type, e.g. fibre ends embedded in ferrules, connecting a pair of fibres
- G02B6/3825—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs of the ferrule type, e.g. fibre ends embedded in ferrules, connecting a pair of fibres with an intermediate part, e.g. adapter, receptacle, linking two plugs
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
- G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
- G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
- G02B6/3833—Details of mounting fibres in ferrules; Assembly methods; Manufacture
- G02B6/3834—Means for centering or aligning the light guide within the ferrule
- G02B6/3835—Means for centering or aligning the light guide within the ferrule using discs, bushings or the like
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
- G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
- G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
- G02B6/3873—Connectors using guide surfaces for aligning ferrule ends, e.g. tubes, sleeves, V-grooves, rods, pins, balls
- G02B6/3874—Connectors using guide surfaces for aligning ferrule ends, e.g. tubes, sleeves, V-grooves, rods, pins, balls using tubes, sleeves to align ferrules
- G02B6/3878—Connectors using guide surfaces for aligning ferrule ends, e.g. tubes, sleeves, V-grooves, rods, pins, balls using tubes, sleeves to align ferrules comprising a plurality of ferrules, branching and break-out means
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
- G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
- G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
- G02B6/3897—Connectors fixed to housings, casing, frames or circuit boards
Landscapes
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Optics & Photonics (AREA)
- Mechanical Coupling Of Light Guides (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
Apparatus for optically coupling fiber optic components in which a first connector portion includes an alignment position with respect to one of the fiber optic components. A second connector portion matable with the first has a floating insert holding another fiber optic component. Guide means on the insert and the first connector portion guide the insert toward the alignment position during a first phase of the mating operation. Alignment means cooperatively bring the insert into the alignment position during a second phase of the mating operation to optically align the fiber optic components. Yieldable retaining means yieldably urge and retain the insert in the alignment position.
Apparatus for optically coupling fiber optic components in which a first connector portion includes an alignment position with respect to one of the fiber optic components. A second connector portion matable with the first has a floating insert holding another fiber optic component. Guide means on the insert and the first connector portion guide the insert toward the alignment position during a first phase of the mating operation. Alignment means cooperatively bring the insert into the alignment position during a second phase of the mating operation to optically align the fiber optic components. Yieldable retaining means yieldably urge and retain the insert in the alignment position.
Description
~ ~7 Z07 9 FIBER OPTIC CONNECTOR HAVING
A SELF-CENTERING, FLOATING INSERT
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to apparatus for optically coupling fiber optic components, and in particular to apparatus, such as connectors, for coupling fiber optic components so that the optic axes are coaxially aligned and maintained in alignment.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
There is an increasing need for apparatus capable of readily and properly coupling and maintaining respective fiber optic devices in a low signal loss connection with their optic axes aligned. In optical communication systems, for example, reliable, low signai loss connections are required between two light transmitting cables of optical fibers, or to terminate a light transmitting cable on a chassis or terminal board. Since the single optic fibers have diameters ranging from about 10 to 250 microns, any deviation in coaxial alignment of the coupled optic fiber axes leads to appreciable signal losses at the connection. Such losses can occur from a lateral or angular misalignment of the - 25 optic fiber axes which deviates from the desired coaxial alignment, and from a longitudinal misalignment in the longitudinal separation of the coupled fibers.
Typically, it is desired that the optical coupling limit signal losses due to lateral misalignment to under 0.5dB, which requires that the fibers are aligned within about two ten-thousandths ~.
:~172()79 of an inch, or to within one-tenth the diameter of a human hair. The coupling should also limit angular misalignment to one degree or less and longitudinal misalignment to a maximum of about one-thousandth of an inch or about 25 microns.
The need exists for a significant number of such optic coupling devices, which dictates that such devices must be manufactured at high volume and low cost without any sacrifice in providing and maintaining the required positioning and precise coaxial alignment of the optic axes. In addition, the optic coupling device must be readily useable and easily installed and detached by either skilled or non-skilled personnel.
The prior art includes several proposed optical couplers or connectors for optical fibers, wherein the two optical fiber mating ends are joined by a tubular alignment sleeve which extends across the connecting junction. The alignment sleeve is intended to maintain the fibers positioned in coaxial alignment, and may be threaded across the optical junction as in U.S. Patent No. 4,027,938, issued ~une 6, 1977, Adolph L. Lewis; threadably locked in position as in U.S. Patent No. 3,846,010, issued November 5, 1974, Ray E. Love, et al; squeezed across the junction as in U.S. Patent No. 3,982,815, issued September 28, 1976, Osamu Nakayama; or anchored by an epoxy compound as in U.S. Patent No. 3,904,269, issued September 9, 1975, Robert L. Lebduska. In U.S. Patent No. 3,922,064, issued November 25, 1975, Kenneth M. Clark, et al matching, opposed convex-concave surfaces of closely held dimensions on respective terminations of the optic fibers are resiliently biased into abutment by opposing compression springs of differing strength for centering and maintaining the optic axes in Position.
~ L7;~79 - 3.
The aforementioned proposed connectors thus require several individual components, including either an alignment sleeve rigidly maintained in position or differing strength springs biasing convex-concave matching surfaces of tight manufacturing tolerances. The requirement for several components and close manufacturing dimensions not only leads to increased production costs, but also requires the user to maneuver several pieces into juxtaposition during connector attachment and to carefully detach the connector to avoid possible loss of a required component.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the principles of the present invention, there is provided apparatus for optically coupling optic components which obviates the problems found in prior coupling devices by positioning and main~taining coaxial alignment of the optic axes without the use of alignment sleeves or spring biased, precisely matching convex-concave surfaces. In addition, the optic coupling device of the present invention contains only a few components~
can be readily manufactured with a minimum of close tolerance dimensions, and can be readily attached and detached.
In particular, the optic coupling device of the present invention for optically coupling fiber optic components includes two mating portions, one having an alignment position for one of the fiber optic components. A floating insert holds a second fiber optic components in the other mating portion.
As the two mating portions are brought together, guide means o~ the insert and the first mating portion cooperatively guide the insert toward the 1~72079 alignment position, and alignment means are provided for cooperatively bringing the insert into the alignment position to optically align the ~iber optic components. The guide means centers the insert to within a range of prealignment positions, and the alignment means brings the insert into the alignment position from any of the prealignment positions.
In one particular embodiment, the guide means includes a frustoconical surface on the first mating portion engaging a guide surface on the insert for centering the insert to within the prealignment positions during the first part of the mating operation. The alignment means includes a chamfered surface on the first mating portion for engaging and moving the insert from a prealignment position into alignment with the alignment position. Cooperating axially extending, abutting surfaces on the insert and the first mating portion in the alignment position maintain the insert during full mating of the respective mating portions. Respective axial limiting surfaces are provided in the first mating portion and the floating insert to limit the axial travel of the insert when located in the alignment position.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, resilient bias means urge the floating insert axially so that the axial limiting surfaces of the insert and the first mating portion are maintained in abutment with the insert in the alignment position. A retaining member engaging the floating insert inside of the second mating portion is formed of a more resilient material than the floating insert so as to yieldably urge the insert axial limiting surface against the corresponding surface on the first mating portion. The bias means further includes means for capturing the floating ~72079 5.
insert upon unmating of the connector. In particular, the retaining member surrounds and captures the floating insert with an annular ridge protruding from the retaining member interior engaging an annular recess in the floating insert.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
_ The features of this invention which are believed to be novel are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The invention, together with its objects and the advantages thereof, may be best understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify like elements in the several figures and in which:
FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a connector having two mating portions for optically coupling fiber optic components constructed in accordance with the principles oi the present invention;
FIGURE 2 is a sectional view, taken along section line 2-2 of FIGURE 1, illustrating two fiber optic cables being coupled and maintained in optical alignment;
FIGURE 3 is a perspective, exploded view of a portion of the connector, partly fragmented, illustrating one of the connector mating portions with an alignment position for one fiber optic cable and a floating insert holding a second fiber optic cable to be inserted into the alignment position for optically coupling the two cables;
FIGURE 4 is an expanded, partly sectional view of the alignment position, illustrating in detail guide means centering the floating insert to within a range of prealignment positions during a first part of the mating operation;
~7~)7~
6.
FIGURE 5 is an expanded, partly sectional view similar to FIGURE 4, but with the floating insert centered in the prealignment position, and illustrating the alignment means cooperatively bringing the floating insert into the alignment position during a second part of the mating operation;
FIGURE 6 is a perspective view, partly fragmented, illustrating an alternative embodiment of a connector for optically coupling several fiber optic components in accordance with the present invention; and FIGURE 7 is a plan view, partly fragmented, illustrating still another alternative embodiment of a fiber optic connector in accordance with the present invention, useful to optically couple the optical fibers of plural pairs of fiber optic cables.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
OF THE INVENTION
,~, . .
Reference may be made to Figures 1-5, wherein there is shown a preferred embodiment of a connector 10 in accordance with the principles of the present invention for optically connecting a pair of optical fibers 12 in respective fiber optic cables 14.
Connector 10 includes a connector housing 16 with an alignment position 18 defined therein to optically align the optical fibers as shown in Figure 2, and a retaining member 20 capturing a floating insert 22 terminating one of the optical fibers. A locking member 24 threadably engages connector housing 16 to securely lock the connector components together. It is to be understood that the connector elements are symmetrical on respective sides of alignment position 18.
7;~07~
7.
Reference may be made to Figures 3-5 which illustrate in detail the structure and operation wherein an optical component, such as optic fiber 12, terminated in insert 22 is optically coupled to another optic'al component at alignment position 18.
An interior wall 26 within connector housing 16 includes an aperture 28 and a frustoconical surface 30. A second wall 32 within the connector housing includes an aperture 33 at alignment position 18 and a chamfered surface 34. At the forward end of floating insert 22 there is provided a disc or boss 36 protruding from an end face 38, and which includes a bore 40 for receiving and terminating the optical fiber by gluing or cementing in place. An annular ridge 42 including angled surface 44 formed internally of retaining member 20 fits within an annular recess 46 provided in the outer surface of insert 22 to capture the floating insert.
As the insert enters the connector housing 2n ~ during the mating- operation,~ end ~"face 38 engages frustoconical surface 30 to cooperatively guide the insert towards the alignment position. In the expanded view of Figure 4, the insert has been depicted as slightly off-center and thus the insert top-front portion engages surface 30 to guide the insert into a prealignment position shown in the expanded view of Figure 5. Frustoconical surface 30 is sized to enable the insert to be self-centered within a range of prealignment positions.
In Figure 5 insert 22 is shown as substantially centered with respect to alignment position 18. Final centering during the mating operation is obtained by the top portion of disc 36 engaging chamfered surface 34 to move the insert from the illustrated prealignment position into the centered alignment position shown in Figure 2. The ~72(~
8.
concentricity of bore 40 with respect to the outer diameter of disc 36 is held to within a tolerance of about 0.00015 inch. A close manufacturing tolerance of about 0.0001-0.0002 inch is held between the outer diameter of disc 36 and the inner diameter of the aperture in wall 32 at the alignment position. This ensures an interference fit of disc 36 in alignment position 18, with an axially extending surface 50 ~f the disc abutting in snug fit engagement with an axially extending surface 52 at the alignment position to maintain the optic fiber axes coaxially aligned. Limiting of the axial travel of insert 22 after the insert is in the alignment position is provided by insert end face 38 abutting face 54.
Connector housing 16, insert 22 and retaining member 20 may be formed of a resilient, semi-flexible material such as is commercially available under the trademark Delrin. Alternatively, the insert may be molded of a more rigid material, such as a glass filled amorphous n-ylon or a glass filled polycarbonate. As noted in Figures 4 and 5 the outer diameter of insert 22 is slightly less than the inner diameter of the retaining member so that the insert is somewhat loosely captured or floating in the retaining member. This eliminates the need otherwise for close tolerances between the disc, the retaining member and the connector housing.
Thus, as the retaining member and the floating insert are inserted into the connector housing, annular ridge 42 and annular recess 46 cooperate to 00ve the insert substantially axially and without any tendency to twist the insert out of position. As the insert end face 38 encounters frustoconical surface 30, (Figure 4) the insert is guided toward the alignment position by being substantially centered in the prealignment position (Figure 5), and finally ~7;~79 9.
chamfered surface 34 encounters disc 36 to move the insert to the alignment position. Locking member 24 is then threadably engaged on the connector housing to place an internal flange 56 at the rear of the locking member into driving engagement with an annular flange 58 on the outer surface of the retaining member. Continued threadable engagement of the locking member yieldably urges insert end face 38 into pressing engagement with wall surface 54 to retain the components in the alignment position.
Insert 22 includes a tapered rear section 60 to aid in assembling the insert rearwardly through the open front end of the retaining member into its captured position on the retaining member.
Alternatively, the retaining member may be formed of two similar half sections which may be placed around the insert and the half sections then permanently secured by conventional means, such as heat-staking, ultrasonic welding, epoxy gluing, etc. The retaining ` member preferably- extends beyond the locking member and onto a short length of cable 14 to provide a strain and bend relief for the cable. In addition to bore 40 to accommodate the optical fiber, the insert also includes suitably sized bores to accommodate a buffer tubing and a wrapping of plastic strength fibers which surround the optic fiber within cable 14.
In accordance with standard techniques, the front end surface of disc 36 is ground and polished to provide a flat, smooth, perpendicular fiber end surface for efficient transmission of light between fibers. Furthermore, the front end surface of each disc 36 in connector 16 is precisely ground and polished to provide a slight separation between the disc surfaces at alignment position 18 as shown in Figure 2. A separation is provided to eliminate the possibility of the optic fiber end surfaces coming ~72~)79 10 .
into contact and becoming scratched or otherwise damaged.
Reference may be made to Figure 6, wherein there is illustrated another embodiment of the present invention, employing the principles thereof to provide a connector 70 for coupling a plurality of pairs of fiber optic cables 14. In particular, a connector housing 72 is formed with several alignment positions 18, and apertured walls 26 for receiving the floating inserts of three pairs of optic cables.
Housing 72 includes threaded tubular extensions 74 protruding from the end of the housing for engaging locking members 24. A frustoconical surface 30 and chamfered surface 34 are provided for prealignment and final alignment of each of the optic components as each of the inserts is moved into the connector.
Thus, as in the construction of Figure 1, the respective optic fibers are coaxially aligned in each - of the alignment positions and maintained in position.
20 ` Figure 7 illus-trate-s still -anbther alternative embodiment of a connector 80 for a plurality of pairs of optical cables 14. Connector 80 is formed of a connector housing 82 formed in the interior portion thereof in a manner similar to that of multiple connector housing 72 shown in Figure 6, but without the tubular extensions 74. Instead, at the end of housing 82, there is provided a rectangular shaped end cap 84 with openings sized with respect to the retaining member 20 such that the cap butts against retaining member flanges 58. A V-shaped ridge 86 formed within the interior of end cap 84 provides a snap fit engagement with a corresponding recess formed on the outside wall of connector housing 82 to lock the cap in position.
The principles of the present invention may thus be readily utilized to prnvide an optic coupler ~3L7~7~
11 .
for readily mating one or more pairs of fiber optic cables or other optic components with the respective optic axes maintained in coaxial alignment and preventing any longitudinal displacement of the optic s ends to insure a low signal loss connection. The optic coupler of the present invention in each of the illustrated embodiments is formed of only a few elements and requires only a few precision dimensions to obtain the prealignment and final alignment position of the optic axes. The alignment position is maintained by yieldably urging the optic components together and locking them in position.
Furthermore, when the optical coupling is disengaged, the floating insert is captured within one of the mating portions, thus lessening any chance of losing coupler elements, and readily enabling the optic connection to again be made by recoupling the two mating portions without requiring any readjustment in the coupler elements. Rather than frustoconical surface 30 and chamfered-surface 34 being formed in connector housing 169 such surfaces could be formed instead on the insert to provide the prealignment and alignment positioning previously described.
While particular embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects.
Accordingly, the aim of the appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications as may fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
A SELF-CENTERING, FLOATING INSERT
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to apparatus for optically coupling fiber optic components, and in particular to apparatus, such as connectors, for coupling fiber optic components so that the optic axes are coaxially aligned and maintained in alignment.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
There is an increasing need for apparatus capable of readily and properly coupling and maintaining respective fiber optic devices in a low signal loss connection with their optic axes aligned. In optical communication systems, for example, reliable, low signai loss connections are required between two light transmitting cables of optical fibers, or to terminate a light transmitting cable on a chassis or terminal board. Since the single optic fibers have diameters ranging from about 10 to 250 microns, any deviation in coaxial alignment of the coupled optic fiber axes leads to appreciable signal losses at the connection. Such losses can occur from a lateral or angular misalignment of the - 25 optic fiber axes which deviates from the desired coaxial alignment, and from a longitudinal misalignment in the longitudinal separation of the coupled fibers.
Typically, it is desired that the optical coupling limit signal losses due to lateral misalignment to under 0.5dB, which requires that the fibers are aligned within about two ten-thousandths ~.
:~172()79 of an inch, or to within one-tenth the diameter of a human hair. The coupling should also limit angular misalignment to one degree or less and longitudinal misalignment to a maximum of about one-thousandth of an inch or about 25 microns.
The need exists for a significant number of such optic coupling devices, which dictates that such devices must be manufactured at high volume and low cost without any sacrifice in providing and maintaining the required positioning and precise coaxial alignment of the optic axes. In addition, the optic coupling device must be readily useable and easily installed and detached by either skilled or non-skilled personnel.
The prior art includes several proposed optical couplers or connectors for optical fibers, wherein the two optical fiber mating ends are joined by a tubular alignment sleeve which extends across the connecting junction. The alignment sleeve is intended to maintain the fibers positioned in coaxial alignment, and may be threaded across the optical junction as in U.S. Patent No. 4,027,938, issued ~une 6, 1977, Adolph L. Lewis; threadably locked in position as in U.S. Patent No. 3,846,010, issued November 5, 1974, Ray E. Love, et al; squeezed across the junction as in U.S. Patent No. 3,982,815, issued September 28, 1976, Osamu Nakayama; or anchored by an epoxy compound as in U.S. Patent No. 3,904,269, issued September 9, 1975, Robert L. Lebduska. In U.S. Patent No. 3,922,064, issued November 25, 1975, Kenneth M. Clark, et al matching, opposed convex-concave surfaces of closely held dimensions on respective terminations of the optic fibers are resiliently biased into abutment by opposing compression springs of differing strength for centering and maintaining the optic axes in Position.
~ L7;~79 - 3.
The aforementioned proposed connectors thus require several individual components, including either an alignment sleeve rigidly maintained in position or differing strength springs biasing convex-concave matching surfaces of tight manufacturing tolerances. The requirement for several components and close manufacturing dimensions not only leads to increased production costs, but also requires the user to maneuver several pieces into juxtaposition during connector attachment and to carefully detach the connector to avoid possible loss of a required component.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the principles of the present invention, there is provided apparatus for optically coupling optic components which obviates the problems found in prior coupling devices by positioning and main~taining coaxial alignment of the optic axes without the use of alignment sleeves or spring biased, precisely matching convex-concave surfaces. In addition, the optic coupling device of the present invention contains only a few components~
can be readily manufactured with a minimum of close tolerance dimensions, and can be readily attached and detached.
In particular, the optic coupling device of the present invention for optically coupling fiber optic components includes two mating portions, one having an alignment position for one of the fiber optic components. A floating insert holds a second fiber optic components in the other mating portion.
As the two mating portions are brought together, guide means o~ the insert and the first mating portion cooperatively guide the insert toward the 1~72079 alignment position, and alignment means are provided for cooperatively bringing the insert into the alignment position to optically align the ~iber optic components. The guide means centers the insert to within a range of prealignment positions, and the alignment means brings the insert into the alignment position from any of the prealignment positions.
In one particular embodiment, the guide means includes a frustoconical surface on the first mating portion engaging a guide surface on the insert for centering the insert to within the prealignment positions during the first part of the mating operation. The alignment means includes a chamfered surface on the first mating portion for engaging and moving the insert from a prealignment position into alignment with the alignment position. Cooperating axially extending, abutting surfaces on the insert and the first mating portion in the alignment position maintain the insert during full mating of the respective mating portions. Respective axial limiting surfaces are provided in the first mating portion and the floating insert to limit the axial travel of the insert when located in the alignment position.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, resilient bias means urge the floating insert axially so that the axial limiting surfaces of the insert and the first mating portion are maintained in abutment with the insert in the alignment position. A retaining member engaging the floating insert inside of the second mating portion is formed of a more resilient material than the floating insert so as to yieldably urge the insert axial limiting surface against the corresponding surface on the first mating portion. The bias means further includes means for capturing the floating ~72079 5.
insert upon unmating of the connector. In particular, the retaining member surrounds and captures the floating insert with an annular ridge protruding from the retaining member interior engaging an annular recess in the floating insert.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
_ The features of this invention which are believed to be novel are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The invention, together with its objects and the advantages thereof, may be best understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify like elements in the several figures and in which:
FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a connector having two mating portions for optically coupling fiber optic components constructed in accordance with the principles oi the present invention;
FIGURE 2 is a sectional view, taken along section line 2-2 of FIGURE 1, illustrating two fiber optic cables being coupled and maintained in optical alignment;
FIGURE 3 is a perspective, exploded view of a portion of the connector, partly fragmented, illustrating one of the connector mating portions with an alignment position for one fiber optic cable and a floating insert holding a second fiber optic cable to be inserted into the alignment position for optically coupling the two cables;
FIGURE 4 is an expanded, partly sectional view of the alignment position, illustrating in detail guide means centering the floating insert to within a range of prealignment positions during a first part of the mating operation;
~7~)7~
6.
FIGURE 5 is an expanded, partly sectional view similar to FIGURE 4, but with the floating insert centered in the prealignment position, and illustrating the alignment means cooperatively bringing the floating insert into the alignment position during a second part of the mating operation;
FIGURE 6 is a perspective view, partly fragmented, illustrating an alternative embodiment of a connector for optically coupling several fiber optic components in accordance with the present invention; and FIGURE 7 is a plan view, partly fragmented, illustrating still another alternative embodiment of a fiber optic connector in accordance with the present invention, useful to optically couple the optical fibers of plural pairs of fiber optic cables.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
OF THE INVENTION
,~, . .
Reference may be made to Figures 1-5, wherein there is shown a preferred embodiment of a connector 10 in accordance with the principles of the present invention for optically connecting a pair of optical fibers 12 in respective fiber optic cables 14.
Connector 10 includes a connector housing 16 with an alignment position 18 defined therein to optically align the optical fibers as shown in Figure 2, and a retaining member 20 capturing a floating insert 22 terminating one of the optical fibers. A locking member 24 threadably engages connector housing 16 to securely lock the connector components together. It is to be understood that the connector elements are symmetrical on respective sides of alignment position 18.
7;~07~
7.
Reference may be made to Figures 3-5 which illustrate in detail the structure and operation wherein an optical component, such as optic fiber 12, terminated in insert 22 is optically coupled to another optic'al component at alignment position 18.
An interior wall 26 within connector housing 16 includes an aperture 28 and a frustoconical surface 30. A second wall 32 within the connector housing includes an aperture 33 at alignment position 18 and a chamfered surface 34. At the forward end of floating insert 22 there is provided a disc or boss 36 protruding from an end face 38, and which includes a bore 40 for receiving and terminating the optical fiber by gluing or cementing in place. An annular ridge 42 including angled surface 44 formed internally of retaining member 20 fits within an annular recess 46 provided in the outer surface of insert 22 to capture the floating insert.
As the insert enters the connector housing 2n ~ during the mating- operation,~ end ~"face 38 engages frustoconical surface 30 to cooperatively guide the insert towards the alignment position. In the expanded view of Figure 4, the insert has been depicted as slightly off-center and thus the insert top-front portion engages surface 30 to guide the insert into a prealignment position shown in the expanded view of Figure 5. Frustoconical surface 30 is sized to enable the insert to be self-centered within a range of prealignment positions.
In Figure 5 insert 22 is shown as substantially centered with respect to alignment position 18. Final centering during the mating operation is obtained by the top portion of disc 36 engaging chamfered surface 34 to move the insert from the illustrated prealignment position into the centered alignment position shown in Figure 2. The ~72(~
8.
concentricity of bore 40 with respect to the outer diameter of disc 36 is held to within a tolerance of about 0.00015 inch. A close manufacturing tolerance of about 0.0001-0.0002 inch is held between the outer diameter of disc 36 and the inner diameter of the aperture in wall 32 at the alignment position. This ensures an interference fit of disc 36 in alignment position 18, with an axially extending surface 50 ~f the disc abutting in snug fit engagement with an axially extending surface 52 at the alignment position to maintain the optic fiber axes coaxially aligned. Limiting of the axial travel of insert 22 after the insert is in the alignment position is provided by insert end face 38 abutting face 54.
Connector housing 16, insert 22 and retaining member 20 may be formed of a resilient, semi-flexible material such as is commercially available under the trademark Delrin. Alternatively, the insert may be molded of a more rigid material, such as a glass filled amorphous n-ylon or a glass filled polycarbonate. As noted in Figures 4 and 5 the outer diameter of insert 22 is slightly less than the inner diameter of the retaining member so that the insert is somewhat loosely captured or floating in the retaining member. This eliminates the need otherwise for close tolerances between the disc, the retaining member and the connector housing.
Thus, as the retaining member and the floating insert are inserted into the connector housing, annular ridge 42 and annular recess 46 cooperate to 00ve the insert substantially axially and without any tendency to twist the insert out of position. As the insert end face 38 encounters frustoconical surface 30, (Figure 4) the insert is guided toward the alignment position by being substantially centered in the prealignment position (Figure 5), and finally ~7;~79 9.
chamfered surface 34 encounters disc 36 to move the insert to the alignment position. Locking member 24 is then threadably engaged on the connector housing to place an internal flange 56 at the rear of the locking member into driving engagement with an annular flange 58 on the outer surface of the retaining member. Continued threadable engagement of the locking member yieldably urges insert end face 38 into pressing engagement with wall surface 54 to retain the components in the alignment position.
Insert 22 includes a tapered rear section 60 to aid in assembling the insert rearwardly through the open front end of the retaining member into its captured position on the retaining member.
Alternatively, the retaining member may be formed of two similar half sections which may be placed around the insert and the half sections then permanently secured by conventional means, such as heat-staking, ultrasonic welding, epoxy gluing, etc. The retaining ` member preferably- extends beyond the locking member and onto a short length of cable 14 to provide a strain and bend relief for the cable. In addition to bore 40 to accommodate the optical fiber, the insert also includes suitably sized bores to accommodate a buffer tubing and a wrapping of plastic strength fibers which surround the optic fiber within cable 14.
In accordance with standard techniques, the front end surface of disc 36 is ground and polished to provide a flat, smooth, perpendicular fiber end surface for efficient transmission of light between fibers. Furthermore, the front end surface of each disc 36 in connector 16 is precisely ground and polished to provide a slight separation between the disc surfaces at alignment position 18 as shown in Figure 2. A separation is provided to eliminate the possibility of the optic fiber end surfaces coming ~72~)79 10 .
into contact and becoming scratched or otherwise damaged.
Reference may be made to Figure 6, wherein there is illustrated another embodiment of the present invention, employing the principles thereof to provide a connector 70 for coupling a plurality of pairs of fiber optic cables 14. In particular, a connector housing 72 is formed with several alignment positions 18, and apertured walls 26 for receiving the floating inserts of three pairs of optic cables.
Housing 72 includes threaded tubular extensions 74 protruding from the end of the housing for engaging locking members 24. A frustoconical surface 30 and chamfered surface 34 are provided for prealignment and final alignment of each of the optic components as each of the inserts is moved into the connector.
Thus, as in the construction of Figure 1, the respective optic fibers are coaxially aligned in each - of the alignment positions and maintained in position.
20 ` Figure 7 illus-trate-s still -anbther alternative embodiment of a connector 80 for a plurality of pairs of optical cables 14. Connector 80 is formed of a connector housing 82 formed in the interior portion thereof in a manner similar to that of multiple connector housing 72 shown in Figure 6, but without the tubular extensions 74. Instead, at the end of housing 82, there is provided a rectangular shaped end cap 84 with openings sized with respect to the retaining member 20 such that the cap butts against retaining member flanges 58. A V-shaped ridge 86 formed within the interior of end cap 84 provides a snap fit engagement with a corresponding recess formed on the outside wall of connector housing 82 to lock the cap in position.
The principles of the present invention may thus be readily utilized to prnvide an optic coupler ~3L7~7~
11 .
for readily mating one or more pairs of fiber optic cables or other optic components with the respective optic axes maintained in coaxial alignment and preventing any longitudinal displacement of the optic s ends to insure a low signal loss connection. The optic coupler of the present invention in each of the illustrated embodiments is formed of only a few elements and requires only a few precision dimensions to obtain the prealignment and final alignment position of the optic axes. The alignment position is maintained by yieldably urging the optic components together and locking them in position.
Furthermore, when the optical coupling is disengaged, the floating insert is captured within one of the mating portions, thus lessening any chance of losing coupler elements, and readily enabling the optic connection to again be made by recoupling the two mating portions without requiring any readjustment in the coupler elements. Rather than frustoconical surface 30 and chamfered-surface 34 being formed in connector housing 169 such surfaces could be formed instead on the insert to provide the prealignment and alignment positioning previously described.
While particular embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects.
Accordingly, the aim of the appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications as may fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (12)
1. Apparatus for optically coupling fiber optic components comprising:
first connector means defining an alignment position with respect to one of said fiber optic components;
second connector means matable with said first connector means during a mating operation, said second connector means having a floating insert holding a second fiber optic component;
said insert and said first connector means each having guide means for cooperatively guiding said insert toward said alignment position during a first portion of the mating operation; and alignment means for cooperatively bringing said insert into said alignment position during a second portion of the mating operation to optically align said fiber optic components;
said guide means centering said insert to within a range of prealignment positions during said first portion of said mating operation, and wherein said alignment means brings said insert into said alignment position from any of said prealignment positions during said second portion of said mating operation, said second portion of said mating operation occurring after said insert has been centered to within said range of prealignment positions.
first connector means defining an alignment position with respect to one of said fiber optic components;
second connector means matable with said first connector means during a mating operation, said second connector means having a floating insert holding a second fiber optic component;
said insert and said first connector means each having guide means for cooperatively guiding said insert toward said alignment position during a first portion of the mating operation; and alignment means for cooperatively bringing said insert into said alignment position during a second portion of the mating operation to optically align said fiber optic components;
said guide means centering said insert to within a range of prealignment positions during said first portion of said mating operation, and wherein said alignment means brings said insert into said alignment position from any of said prealignment positions during said second portion of said mating operation, said second portion of said mating operation occurring after said insert has been centered to within said range of prealignment positions.
2. Apparatus in accordance with claim 1 wherein said alignment means includes means for moving said insert from said prealignment position into alignment with said alignment position and means for maintaining said insert in said alignment position.
3. Apparatus in accordance with claim 2 wherein said first and second connector means mate in an axial direction and wherein at least one of said insert and said first connector means includes a chamfered surface for engaging the other of said insert and said first connector means and moving said insert from said pre-alignment position into alignment with said alignment position.
4. Apparatus in accordance with claim 3 wherein said first connector means includes an axially extending surface defining said alignment position and wherein said insert includes an axially extending surface adapted to abut said axially extending surface of said first connector means when said first and second connector means are fully mated and maintain said insert in said axial position.
5. Apparatus in accordance with claim 4 wherein said insert and said first connector means further have respective surfaces which abut to limit the axial travel of said insert after said insert is in said alignment position.
6. Apparatus in accordance with claim 5 wherein said alignment means comprises a receptacle and a disc adapted to fit snugly within said receptacle, said disc and said receptacle providing said axially extending surfaces for maintaining said insert in said axial position and at least one of said disc and said receptacle having a chamfered surface for moving said insert from said prealignment position into alignment with said receptacle.
7. Apparatus in accordance with claim 1 wherein said guide means comprises respective guide surfaces of said insert and said first connector means, one of said guide surfaces having a frustoconical configuration for engaging the other of said guide surfaces and centering said insert to said prealignment position.
8. Apparatus for optically coupling fiber optic components comprising:
first connector means having a receptacle defining an alignment position with respect to one of said fiber optic components;
second connector means matable with said first connector means in an axial direction during a mating operation, said second connector means including a floating insert having a disc projecting forwardly therefrom in said axial direction, said disc being adapted to be snugly received within said receptacle and holding a second fiber optic component;
said insert and said first connector means each having guide means for cooperatively guiding said disc toward said receptacle during a first portion of the mating operation; and alignment means for cooperatively bringing said disc into said receptacle during a second portion of the mating operation to optically align said fiber optic components.
first connector means having a receptacle defining an alignment position with respect to one of said fiber optic components;
second connector means matable with said first connector means in an axial direction during a mating operation, said second connector means including a floating insert having a disc projecting forwardly therefrom in said axial direction, said disc being adapted to be snugly received within said receptacle and holding a second fiber optic component;
said insert and said first connector means each having guide means for cooperatively guiding said disc toward said receptacle during a first portion of the mating operation; and alignment means for cooperatively bringing said disc into said receptacle during a second portion of the mating operation to optically align said fiber optic components.
9. Apparatus in accordance with claim 8 wherein said guide means center said disc to within a range of prealignment positions during said first portion of said mating operation, and wherein said alignment means brings said disc into said receptacle from any of said prealignment positions during said second portion of said mating operation, said second portion of said mating operation occurring after said disc has been centered to within said range of prealignment positions.
10. Apparatus in accordance with claim 8 wherein said alignment means includes resilient retaining means for yieldably urging the retention of said disc in said receptacle.
11. Apparatus in accordance with claim 10 wherein said resilient retaining means includes a retaining member capturing said floating insert therein, and wherein said retaining member is formed of a more resilient, yieldable material than said insert.
12. Apparatus for optically coupling fiber optic components comprising:
first connector means having a receptacle defining an alignment position with respect to one of said fiber optic components;
second connector means matable with said first connector means in an axial direction during a mating operation, said second connector means including a floating insert having a disc projecting forwardly therefrom in said axial direction, said disc being adapted to be snugly received in interference fit engagement within said receptacle and holding a second fiber optic component;
said insert and said first connector means each having self-centering means for moving said disc into said receptacle to optically align said fiber optic components; and resilient retaining means for yieldably urging the retention of said disc in said receptacle to maintain said alignment.
first connector means having a receptacle defining an alignment position with respect to one of said fiber optic components;
second connector means matable with said first connector means in an axial direction during a mating operation, said second connector means including a floating insert having a disc projecting forwardly therefrom in said axial direction, said disc being adapted to be snugly received in interference fit engagement within said receptacle and holding a second fiber optic component;
said insert and said first connector means each having self-centering means for moving said disc into said receptacle to optically align said fiber optic components; and resilient retaining means for yieldably urging the retention of said disc in said receptacle to maintain said alignment.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US24592381A | 1981-03-20 | 1981-03-20 | |
| US245,923 | 1981-03-20 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1172079A true CA1172079A (en) | 1984-08-07 |
Family
ID=22928653
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000397062A Expired CA1172079A (en) | 1981-03-20 | 1982-02-25 | Fiber optic connector having a self-centering, floating insert |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPS57167003A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1172079A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE3210127A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP0212756A3 (en) * | 1985-08-16 | 1989-04-05 | Augat Inc. | Fiber optic connector with a grooved alignment sleeve |
| JPS6324507U (en) * | 1986-07-30 | 1988-02-18 | ||
| JPH0614169Y2 (en) * | 1986-12-01 | 1994-04-13 | 山一電機工業株式会社 | Optical connector |
| WO1998002767A1 (en) * | 1996-07-15 | 1998-01-22 | Fibotech, Inc. | Improved fiberoptic connector and improved fiberoptic connector splice |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB1600274A (en) * | 1977-05-02 | 1981-10-14 | Plessey Co Ltd | Optical fibre connectors |
| GB2027924A (en) * | 1978-08-15 | 1980-02-27 | Cablewave Systems Inc | Fibre optic connectors |
| FR2435056A1 (en) * | 1978-08-31 | 1980-03-28 | Fort Francois | CONNECTION CONNECTOR FOR FIBER OPTICS |
| SE426882B (en) * | 1979-02-16 | 1983-02-14 | Stratos Ab | SET AND DEVICE FOR CONNECTING OPTICAL FIBERS |
-
1982
- 1982-02-25 CA CA000397062A patent/CA1172079A/en not_active Expired
- 1982-03-18 JP JP57041808A patent/JPS57167003A/en active Pending
- 1982-03-19 DE DE19823210127 patent/DE3210127A1/en not_active Ceased
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JPS57167003A (en) | 1982-10-14 |
| DE3210127A1 (en) | 1984-04-26 |
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