RU2395107C2 - Opticl connector for terminating optical fibre, distribution point having said connector, device for terminating optical fibre and method to this end - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: physics.

SUBSTANCE: optical connector for terminating optical fibre has a housing with a socket inside. The socket has an optical fibre termination section on its right side. The optical fibre termination section includes a first optical fibre having a first end and a second end. The socket also has in its second part a mechanical splice made with possibility of splicing the second end of the optical fibre termination section with a second optical fibre. The socket has a buffer clamp made in its third part with possibility of pressing at least the buffer cladding section of the second fibre when the clamp is actuated. The optical fibre distribution point has a tray made with possibility of detachable connection to the optical fibre distribution socket. The tray has a front surface made with possibility of accommodating several connectors. Each connector is made with possibility of fitting an optical socket in it, which forms the end termination of the optical fibre from the distribution line. The device for terminating the optical fibre has a base made with possibility of holding the optical socket, a first actuating mechanism mounted on the base for actuating the splice of the optical socket and a second actuating mechanism for actuating buffer clamp of the optical socket, as well as an optical fibre holder. The method of terminating optical fibre into an optical socket involves processing the end of the optical fibre, putting the processed end of the optical fibre into a pre-assembled optical socket, actuation of the splice, splicing the processed end of the optical fibre with a second end of the termination section of the optical fibre, pressing the buffer section of the optical fibre in the optical socket and freeing the optical fibre.

EFFECT: design of an optical fibre connector which enables fast connection and joining several pairs of optical fibres and is simple and cheap to assemble and use.

10 cl, 35 dwg

Description

LINK TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

For the claimed invention, priority is claimed for the following US applications: 60/729629, filing date 10.24.2005; 60/743119, submission date 01/11/2006; 60/744180, filing date 3.04.2006; 60/805038, filing date 06/16/2006; 60/819226, submission date 07/07/2006. Each of these applications is disclosed here by reference.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The invention relates to optical connectors.

BACKGROUND

In the field of telecommunications, various mechanical fiber optic connectors are known. For example, connectors such as LC, ST, FC, and SC are widely used.

However, the optical connectors on the market are not well suited for laying cable lines in the field. Typically, glue is required to connect this type of connector to fiber. This process can be complex and time consuming when carried out in the field. In addition, polishing the ends after assembly requires a specialist in this field of higher qualification.

Hybrid optical connectors are known, as described in JP 3445479, JP 2004-210251 (WO 2006/019516) and JP 2004-210357 (WO 2006/019515). However, such connectors are not compatible with standard connectors; a connector in this area requires element-wise assembly in the field. Performing operations with small parts of the connector and their installation can cause the connector to be improperly assembled, which can lead to either a deterioration in its performance or an increase in the likelihood of fiber damage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the claimed invention, the optical connector for terminating the optical fiber comprises a housing made corresponding to the mating part and a sleeve located in the housing. The sleeve has a terminated segment of optical fiber located in its first part, and the terminated segment of optical fiber includes a first optical fiber installed in the tip and having a first end located near the end surface of the tip and the second end. The coupling also has a mechanical splice located in its second part, adapted to splicing the second end of the terminated segment of the optical fiber with the second optical fiber. The sleeve also has a buffer clip made in its third part, the buffer clip being configured to compress at least a portion of the buffer shell of the second fiber when the clip is actuated.

In one embodiment, the optical connector may additionally have a protective cap connected to the housing to limit lateral displacement of the optical fiber. The cap may have a shank made in the shape of a cone, or in the form of a funnel, or in the form of movably connected segments.

In another embodiment, the optical connector may additionally have a transition ring located on the frame of the connector. In alternative examples, the protective cap may have a crimp ring configured to press the carrier element (s) of the fiber cable to the connector. The cap may also have an outer sheath to limit lateral displacement of the fiber cable. The protective cap may also have a cable crimp ring configured to directly crimp the outer protective sheath of the cable to reduce its possible longitudinal deformation and axial displacement of the fiber optic cable elements.

The optical connector may further have a buffer clip cuff configured to slide onto the outer surface of the third part of the coupling and actuate the buffer clip.

The optical connector can be made corresponding to the mating connector type SC.

The connector housing may have an outer shell and a frame located inside it, while the clutch is held inside the frame.

The mechanical splice may have a splicing element and a cover.

In one embodiment, the coupling may have a buffer clip made in the form of a compressing element with the possibility of its placement in the third part of the coupling and having the ability to wrinkle when actuating the buffer clip. Alternatively, the buffer clip may be in the form of a corrugated outer surface of the third part of the sleeve, which is crushed when the buffer clip is actuated. In another alternative embodiment, the buffer clip can be made in the form of a structure with two protrusions located inside the third part of the coupling and having parts protruding beyond the outer surface of the third part of the coupling and which are wrinkled when the buffer clip is actuated.

Another object of the invention is a device for terminating fiber optics. This device has a base that can hold an optical connector having a pre-terminated piece of optical fiber pre-installed in it. The device further has a first actuator for actuating the splice of the optical connector. The device also has a second actuator for actuating the buffer clip of the optical connector. The device may also have an optical fiber holder capable of holding the optical fiber in the device when performing its termination.

Another object of the invention is a method for terminating an optical fiber into an optical connector, including attaching an optical connector having a terminated piece of optical fiber pre-installed therein. The optical connector also has a splice and buffer clip. The preassembled connector is fixed to the fiber termination tool. Then process the end of the fiber for termination. Processing the end of the fiber consists of removing a portion of the plastic insulating coating and chipping the end of the fiber. When processing the end, the optical fiber can be held in an appropriate section of the termination tool. Then the processed fiber is brought into a pre-assembled connector, advancing until the end of the fiber rests against the terminated segment of the fiber and the fiber begins to bend. The splice is then driven by connecting the processed end of the optical fiber to the terminated segment of the optical fiber. Then compress the buffer section of the optical fiber in the optical connector. Finally, the optical fiber is freed, it is straightened, and the optical connector is removed from the device.

In accordance with another embodiment, the method of terminating an optical fiber into an optical connector also includes pressing the load-bearing elements of the fiber cable against the adapter ring attached to the connector frame to relieve longitudinal tension.

Another object of the invention is an optical fiber distribution point comprising a tray configured to be removably mounted to an optical fiber distribution cabinet. In this case, the tray has a front surface configured to accommodate a plurality of connectors. Each of the connectors is configured to install an optical connector in it, forming the end termination of the optical fiber from the distribution line. The connector has a housing made corresponding to the counterpart, and a sleeve located in the housing. The sleeve has a terminated segment of optical fiber located in its first part, and the terminated segment of optical fiber includes a first optical fiber installed in the tip and having a first end located near the end surface of the tip and the second end. The coupling also has a splice located in its second part, adapted to splicing the second end of the terminated segment of the optical fiber with the second optical fiber from the distribution line. The sleeve also has a buffer clip made in its third part, the buffer clip being configured to compress at least a portion of the buffer shell of the second optical fiber when the clip is actuated. The optical connector may additionally have a protective cap attached to the housing, while the cap may have a shank made in the form of a funnel.

In addition, a tray configured to be removably mounted to an optical fiber distribution cabinet may have a number of optical fiber guides that determine the position of the optical fiber of the distribution line when the distribution point is in the closed position. The fiber optic distribution center may further have one or more rows of clips or support elements that provide compact winding of excess fiber by loops.

The above disclosure of the claimed invention does not imply a description of each example of its implementation or implementation. These examples are illustrated in more detail by the following drawings and detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Examples of the invention are illustrated by the following drawings.

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an optical connector according to an example embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2 shows an exploded view of an optical connector according to an example embodiment of the invention.

Figure 3 shows a side view in section of the optical connector shown in figure 2.

Figure 4 shows another side view in section of the optical connector shown in figure 2.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a coupling according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative coupling according to another embodiment of the invention.

7 shows a cross section of a mechanical splice according to another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of a protective cap according to another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 9 shows a side view of an exemplary cap according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a clutch according to another embodiment of the invention.

11 shows a perspective view of a coupling with a buffer clip mounted therein according to another embodiment of the invention.

12 is a perspective view of a clutch and the mechanical splice and tray placed therein according to another embodiment of the invention.

13 shows a perspective view of a fixture for terminating an optical fiber according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another device for terminating an optical fiber in the field according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of an assembly of an optical fiber holder according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of a portion of a base of a fiber optic termination device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of an optical connector according to another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 18A and Fig. 18B are a perspective view showing an assembly of an optical fiber holder according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of an end termination device for a fiber with fiber installed therein according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

On Fig shows another section of a device for terminating optical fiber with fiber installed in it according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

On Fig shows another cross-section of a device for terminating an optical fiber with fiber installed in it according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of a fixture for terminating an optical fiber with a mechanism for actuating a buffer clip housed therein in an open position according to another embodiment of the invention.

On Fig shows a cross section of an optical connector with an alternative configuration of a buffer clip according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing another fixture for terminating a fiber according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of FIG. 24 of an end termination device for an optical fiber with a mechanism for actuating a buffer clip located therein in an open position according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 illustrating a termination tool for an optical fiber with fiber installed therein, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

On figa and on figv shows a side view and section, respectively, of a protective cap according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 28A and Fig. 28B show a perspective view of an end termination device for an optical fiber with fiber installed therein according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

On figa and on figv shows a top view of a fiber optic distribution point (in closed and open positions, respectively) using an optical connector according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30A shows a perspective view of another fixture for terminating an optical fiber according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 30B shows a close-up of a clamp for gripping an outer cable sheath.

Along with the fact that the claimed invention covers any modifications and variations of the described embodiments of the invention, their specificity is illustrated by drawings and described in detail. However, it should be understood that the description of specific embodiments does not limit the claimed invention. On the contrary, the claims include all modifications, equivalents and variations that are within the essence of the claimed invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The claimed invention relates to an optical connector. In particular, in embodiments of the invention, the small optical connector is configured to end terminate the optical fiber in the field. In addition, using a special device and the described method, it is possible to reduce the assembly time when performing termination of the optical fiber in the field. The exemplary connectors described in the claimed invention can be easily installed and used when laying networks using optical fiber for residential buildings and / or other objects using FTTH or FTTX technology. Such connectors can be used when an inexpensive and easy way to make multiple connections is required when laying networks.

Figure 1 in a perspective view and Figure 2 in a disassembled form shows an optical connector 100 as an example implementation of the claimed invention. The optical connector 100 is configured to match a mate. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the optical connector 100 is configured as an SC type connector. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other types of optical connectors, such as ST, FC, or LC, can be used.

The SC type optical connector 100 may consist of a carrier portion 101 having a housing 110 and a protective cap 180 for the optical fiber. In this embodiment, the housing 110 has an outer shell 112 formed by a corresponding SC-type mating part (for example, an SC connector, SC adapter, or SC socket), and a frame 116 that is housed inside the shell and which provides structural rigidity to the connector 100. In addition, the frame 116 additionally has at least one mounting hole 117, through which you can access and use the device for splicing fibers (mechanical splice) located inside the connector. The frame 116 may additionally have a mounting element 118, designed to connect the housing with a protective cap 180, which serves to protect the optical fiber from damage during bending. According to an embodiment of the invention, the shell 112 and the frame 116 are made or molded of a polymeric material, although metal and other suitable rigid materials can be used. The shell 112 is preferably connected to the outer surface of the frame 116 by means of a latch.

The connector 100 further has a sleeve 120 that is housed and secured within the connector housing. Clutch 120 is a multifunctional element into which a terminated fiber section 130, splice 140, and fiber clip buffer clip 145 (such as shown in FIG. 2) can be installed. The clutch 120 is made with limited axial displacement within the frame 116. For example, the clutch 120 may have an annular collar 125, which can be used as a flange to support the spring 155 (an example is shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4) placed between the annular collar and the frame when the terminated section 130 is installed in the coupling. Clutch 120 can be made or manufactured by casting from a polymeric material, although metal and other suitable materials can be used. For example, sleeve 120 may be injection molded as a unit.

In particular, the sleeve 120 has a first end 121 with an opening for receiving and receiving a terminal portion 130 having a tip 132 with a fixed piece of optical fiber 134. The tip 132 may be made of ceramic, glass, plastic or metal to hold a piece of optical fiber 134 In a preferred embodiment, the tip 132 is made of ceramic.

A piece of optical fiber 134 passes through the tip 132 so that the first end of the piece of optical fiber protrudes slightly from the tip 132 or is aligned or flush with its end. In a preferred embodiment, this first end of a piece of optical fiber is polished under stationary factory conditions (for example, in the transverse plane or at an angle, with or without chamfer). The second end of the optical fiber 134 partially protrudes into the connector 100 and is intended to be spliced with a second optical fiber (such as optical fiber 135 in FIG. 13). In a preferred embodiment, the second end of the optical fiber 134 can be cleaved (transversely or at an angle, with or without chamfer). In one case, the second end of the optical fiber 134 can be polished in a stationary factory to reduce the sharpness of the edge of the fiber, which can crumble when the fiber is installed in the splice. For example, to melt the sharp end of the fiber and smooth out the sharp edges of the fiber, you can use an electric arc from a conventional apparatus for welding optical fiber. This method using an electric arc can be used in combination with abrasive polishing to better control the surface shape of the fiber end and reduce possible damage to the fiber core. An alternative non-contact method involves the use of laser radiation for ablation / fusion of the fiber end.

Fibers 134, 135 may be conventional single-mode or multimode optical fibers / such as SMF 28 (manufactured by Corning, Inc). In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the fiber 134 further has an external graphite coating for added protection. In one example, the fiber 134 is pre-installed and fixed (for example, with epoxy or similar adhesive) in the tip 132 located on the side of the first end 121 of the sleeve 120. In a preferred embodiment, the tip 132 is fixed to the first end 121 of the sleeve with an epoxy or other suitable adhesive. In a preferred embodiment, the installation of the terminated segment of the optical fiber can be pre-performed in a stationary factory environment.

Clutch 120 additionally has a part 123 to accommodate splice. In the example embodiment of FIG. 2, the splice placement portion 123 has a cutout 122 into which the splice 140 can be mounted and fixed in the central cavity of the sleeve 120. In the embodiment, splice 140 is a mechanical splicing device for optical fibers (also used the term splicing device or splice), such as 3M ™ FIBRLOK ™ manufactured by 3M, based in St. Paul, Minnesota.

For example, US Pat. No. 5,159,653 discloses a device for splicing optical fibers (similar to 3M ™ FIBRLOK ™ II), which has a splicing element consisting of a plate made of a flexible material having a hinge connecting two wings, each of which has a channel for fixing the optical fiber (for example, a V-shaped or similar groove) and provides a compressive force to be placed in the channel of the optical fiber. As a flexible material, aluminum or anodized aluminum can be used. In addition, to improve the optical contact between the fibers in the region of the V-shaped grooves in the splicing element, you can previously enter the usual immersion fluid. In accordance with alternative variants of the claimed invention, you can use other typical devices for the mechanical splicing of optical fibers, in particular, described in US patent No. 4824197, 5102212, 5138681 and 5155787.

Splice 140 allows you to connect the second end of the optical fiber of the terminated segment 130 with the optical fiber 135 (see Fig.13) in the field. The term splice should not be interpreted narrowly as a connector, since splice 140 allows fiber extraction.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a splice type 3M ™ FIBRLOK ™ II may have a splicing element 142 and a cover 144. During the connection, when the cover 144 is moved from open to closed (for example, from top to bottom, as shown in the example of FIG. 2), one or more longitudinal protrusions formed on the inner surface of the cover 144, can slide on the wings of the element 142 to bring them together. Preferably, cap 144 may have a 0.2 inch protrusion. For reliable optical connection, two ends of the fibers (for example, one end of the fiber 134 and one end of the fiber 135) are fixed in the grooves made in the splicing element and are joined end-to-end with each other, otherwise they are spliced in a channel, such as a V-shaped groove 141 (see Fig.7), when the wings are reduced.

Alternatively, the splice coupling portion 123 may be configured to remove the splice cover, if necessary. For example, as shown in the cross-section of the end view of FIG. 7, the sleeve 120 may have a slot 147 that is accessible from the opposite side of the cover 144 so that a tool can be inserted to push up the shoulder 143 of the splice cover. After removing the cover 144, the wings of the splicing member 142 can be pulled apart, which makes it possible to remove the fiber 135.

The splicing member 142 is adapted to be mounted in a mounting device or tray 124 (partially shown in FIG. 2 and in a top view shown in FIG. 12) housed in part 123 of clutch 120. In an embodiment of the invention, tray 124 is integral with the clutch 120, for example, by casting. The tray 124 may provide (for example, via a protrusion or latch) a fixed position of the splice 140 relative to the axis of the device. The tray 124 may be configured to hold the splice 140 so that after installation it will not be possible to rotate or relatively easily move forward or backward. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 12, the splicing member 142 can be held by landing with a guaranteed clearance below one or more of the locking protrusions 124B provided in part 123. The tray 124 is configured to fit the splicing member 142 when the locking protrusions are retracted. Once the splicing member 142 is installed, it is partially wound under the locking tabs that hold the member 142 in the vertical direction. Then, the cover 144 can be mounted on the element 142 so that its shoulders extend along the sides of the element 142 and prevent it from deviating from the locking protrusions (see also FIG. 7, which shows a cross section of the locking protrusion 124B and the attachment of the shoulder 143 of the cover 144).

Additionally, the coupling 120 has a part 126 with a buffer clip, which can be made, for example, in the form of at least one slot (or hole) 128 and an insert 145 placed therein. In an embodiment of the invention, the part 126 with a buffer clip is placed inside the frame 116 when the connector is assembled.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the clip portion 126 can be implemented as a single buffer clip structure. For example, FIG. 6 shows the embodiment of a buffer clip in the form of a conical or corrugated outer surface 128 ′ of part 126. FIG. 10 shows another alternative embodiment of a buffer clip in which part 126 has one or more longitudinal slots forming a collet-type clip. In another alternative embodiment of FIG. 11, the buffer clip can be configured as two protrusions 146 that can be pressed (either resiliently or non-resiliently) to the buffer sheath of the optical fiber when the cuff 160 is actuated, such as described below. The protrusions 146 can be performed in one piece (for example, by casting) with part 126. The protrusions 146 protrude above the outer surface of part 126 and can be attached to one or both ends due to sections compressed in cross section. In addition, in order to install the fiber and to avoid its possible displacement, the inner surface of the part 126 can be performed with protrusions or notches (not shown), providing one-sided locking of the fiber.

According to an example, an insert 145 can be installed in the coupling part 126, which is adapted to fix the buffer sheath of a standard optical fiber, for example, with an external diameter of 900 μm, 250 μm or with a larger or smaller diameter. As shown in FIG. 5, insert 145 may have a through hole 148 across the diameter of the optical fiber buffer cladding. The insert 145 may further be formed with one or more convex surfaces 147. The insert 145 is preferably adapted to be positioned in the clip portion 126 so that these convex surfaces protrude above the outer surface of the part 126. The insert 145 can be made of a material such as polypropylene or like that.

In order to actuate said insert 145, the connector 100 further has a collar 160 with a through hole 161 that is pushed onto the clip portion 126. The cuff 160 may be made of a polymeric material or metal. In a preferred embodiment, the stiffness of the collar 160 is greater than the stiffness of the material from which the coupling part 126 is made. When the cuff 160 moves axially in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 5, the first end 163 is in contact with the convex surfaces 147 of the insert 145. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the first end 163 of the cuff is generally funnel-shaped. As the cuff 160 continues to move in the axial direction, its inner surface pushes portions with convex surfaces 147 inward, causing the inner walls of the through hole 148 to contract and compress the buffer coating of the fiber 135 (see also FIG. 4, after completion of the action, the cuff 160 is completely placed over the part 126 couplings).

In the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the coupling portion 126 may have a tapered or corrugated outer surface 128 '. As shown in FIG. 6, prior to actuating the buffer clip, a portion of the cuff 160 is placed around the outer surface of the portion 126. When actuated, the inner surface of the cuff 160 compresses the corrugated outer surface 128 ′ inward, causing the inner walls of the portion 126 to contract and compress the fiber buffer coating 135. In this example, the axial movement of the cuff 160 is limited by the collar 129 (see Figure 5). In addition, the inner channel of the coupling 120 may have a fiber-guiding portion 127 located at the interface with the coupling portion 123 for splice placement (see FIG. 3).

To prevent excessive bending of the fiber at the point of entry into the connector, a protective cap 180 can be used. In this example, the cap 180 has a conventional cone-shaped shank 182. In the alternative example shown in FIG. 8, the cap 180 'may have a funnel-shaped shank 183 allowing specialist access for inserting the optical fiber into the connector for terminating it in the field and setting the minimum bending radius of the optical fiber to prevent possible signal loss during lateral exposure and fiber optic. In another alternative example, shown in Fig.9, the protective cap may have a shank 185, made in the form of articulated segments and which can define a bend, but with a limited radius. In addition, the cap can be connected to the mounting element 118 'of the frame 116' by means of a pivoting mount 186. In another alternative example (not shown), the cap can be made of several materials to provide the required bending radius.

In yet another alternative configuration, the cap may further provide a reduction in longitudinal strain. For example, as shown in FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B, the cap 180 ″ may have a crimp ring 119 to press the fiber optic cable carrier (s) to the connector 100 having a housing 110 (such as described above). In this alternative embodiment, the connector may additionally have an adapter ring 188 adapted to fit onto the mounting member 118 of the frame of the connector 100. The crimp ring 119 may be pushed onto at least a portion of the adapter ring 188. The adapter ring 188 may be factory installed to secure the cuff 160 during transport. The adapter ring 188 can also reduce the likelihood of damage or prevent damage to the mounting element 118 of the frame of the connector 100 when compressing the mounting element with a crimping ring 119. In addition, the cap 180 ″ may have an outer protective sheath 187 made of polymer material and a cable crimping ring 189 made with the possibility of direct crimping of the outer sheath of the cable to reduce its possible longitudinal deformation and axial displacement of the fiber optic cable elements. The protective sheath 187 is preferably adapted to connect to the frame of the connector 100 and capture at least part of the cable crimp ring 189. The fiber optic cable used in this embodiment has a 3.5 mm insulated drop cable, for example, manufactured by Samsung, Hwabaek, Cosmolink and Mercury (Korea). Such a design can provide termination of an optical fiber with a cable sheath and supporting elements (for example, Kevlar or polyester fiber) of the branch cable in the field. Such a design may also provide cable termination capable of withstanding operation under more severe conditions and greater pulling force.

Using the connector shown as an example in FIGS. 1-4, it is possible to field terminate an optical fiber with a diameter of 250 μm, 900 μm or a non-standard optical fiber with a buffer sheath in the absence of a power source, glue, expensive mounting tools or the possibility of polishing. The total length of such a connector may be less than two inches. In addition, the connector contains a splice made as a single element and a buffer clip located inside the connector frame.

Other objects of the invention are a method for terminating an optical fiber and a device for terminating an optical fiber for use in the field. A method for terminating an optical fiber and a corresponding device are described with reference to FIG. 13. For example, the assembled carrier part 101, similar to that described above, has an optical fiber segment installed (terminated) at stationary factory conditions and polished from the end. In contrast, conventional cable termination connectors typically have many individual small elements that need to be assembled in the field, often in an uncontrolled environment. Known methods for terminating optical fibers in the field involve the use of glue and polishing the fiber end, which is time-consuming and requires highly qualified personnel to achieve acceptable optical performance. In addition, it is impossible to check in advance how the quality of such polishing in the field corresponds to the required optical operating parameters of the connector. In the above-described embodiments of the invention, the connector with the terminated segment of the optical fiber during assembly in the field does not require the use of glue and polishing the fiber at the end surface of the tip.

In this embodiment, the carrier portion 101 of the connector is housed in a fiber termination tool 200 configured to perform numerous field termination operations on a fiber optic in a single device. Such a device may have one or more guide sections for fiber, which provide a simple and reliable alignment and installation of the fiber in the connector. At the same time, there is no need for visual means of control or in good lighting conditions, since due to the guides it is possible to provide a clear fixation of the position of the very small end of the fiber. Figures 14-23 describe an alternative fixture 300 for terminating an optical fiber.

Fiber termination fixture 200 has a base 210 that may have one or more sections, such as a connector mounting portion 211, fiber splicing portion 212, and fiber alignment portion 213. In a preferred example, the carrier portion 101 of the connector is located in the connector installation portion 211, the actuator 240 for driving the splice is located in the fiber splicing portion 212, and the fiber guide 230 is located in the fiber alignment portion 213. In a preferred example, at least one of the sections 211, 212 and 213 is configured to move relative to other sections.

At section 213, you can perform a preliminary alignment and fix the fiber. In this section, you can accurately set the end of the fiber before installing it in the bearing part 101 of the connector, providing an acceptable angle and distance to the end of the fiber. The fiber splicing portion 212 may also have a second fiber guide that grips and guides the free end of the fiber when the portion 213 moves toward the portion 212. This guide can be used to center the fiber in the connector. Section 211 of the installation of the connector may also have a third guide, made with the possibility of movement or without such a possibility, to provide clearance for other mechanisms if necessary. Using this guide, the fiber can be installed close to the coupling inlet (i.e., the end of the coupling part with the buffer clip farthest from the front surface of the connector bearing part) and guided until the fiber is inside the coupling inlet. When the fiber is placed in the inlet of the clutch, the mechanism can be moved to a position for actuating the locking devices.

The fiber 135 can be installed through the cap 180 ', placed on the device for terminating the fiber in the alignment area, and dock with one end of the adjustment groove 230. In the preferred embodiment, the cap 180' has a funnel-shaped shank 183, which provides a more convenient insertion of the optical fiber 135. Further, the fiber 135 can be wound up along the adjustment groove 230, which provides axial placement of the fiber and limits its lateral displacement, when the fiber 135 is then installed in the carrier part 101 of the connector.

In one example, prior to installing the fiber 135 in the carrier portion 101 of the connector, when performing the termination of the optical fiber in the field, the optical fiber 135 is prepared by stripping and cleaving (transversely or at an angle) to align with a pre-installed terminated piece of optical fiber. For example, to perform chipping at an angle, you can use a fiber optic cleaver, such as Ilsintech MAX CI-08, manufactured by Fujikura, Japan (not shown). Polishing of the end of the fiber is not required since the cleaved fiber can be optically coupled to the terminated segment of the optical fiber 134 in splice 140. Alternatively, the fiber 135 can be processed after being inserted through the cap 180.

The optical fiber 135 is pulled through until its end is connected to the terminated segment of the optical fiber inside the splice splicing element located in the bearing part 101 of the connector. The longitudinal position of the end of the optical fiber 135 can be further maintained by grasping the fiber 135 with a clip 190, preferably located on the fiber alignment portion 213. Sections 211, 212, and 213 can be placed so that when they are connected together and form an assembled structure, the end of the fiber 135 is joined with the end of the terminated segment of the optical fiber inside the splicing element, due to which the fiber receives an axial load sufficient to form a fiber bend from the splicing element to the clamp located at section 213. This provides the proper axial load on the fiber during actuation of the splice and buffer clamp. The bending of the fiber 135 outside the splicing element may indicate proper contact.

The splice placed inside the connector bearing part 101 can be actuated using an actuator 240, which can be performed in conjunction with the splicing portion 212 of the device 200. In a preferred embodiment, when performing an operation in the field, a specialist will use an actuator that drives as a splice and buffer clip. Alternatively, actuator 240 may be implemented as a separate member configured to detachably attach to splicing portion 212.

For example, the actuator 240 may have a lever or pusher 241 configured to press on the splice cover, such as cover 144. As shown in FIG. 13, in order to actuate the splice, the lever or pusher 241 moves forward along the arc towards the cover splices until they touch. In addition, this technique can also be used to actuate the buffer clip cuffs of the connector carrier portion 101. For example, mechanism 240 may further have a buffer clip actuator 242. In this exemplary configuration, the mechanism 242 has levers 244A and 244B configured to contact the rotary levers 243A and 243B. The levers 243A and 243B are in contact with the cuff 160 of the connector. When the lever 241 moves forward, the buffer clamp actuator 242 axially pushes the collar 160 onto the buffer clip of the connector carrier portion 101. In alternative embodiments, the buffer clip can be actuated before or after actuating the splice, or at the same time as it is.

After activating the splice, you can release the clamp 190, and the cap 180 'can be connected to the end of the main part 101 of the connector. The main part 101 of the connector can be removed from the device 200 and used.

Thus, in an example embodiment of the invention, the fixture for terminating an optical fiber allows a field technician to use one device for embedding a prepared optical fiber in a standard type optical connector. In a preferred embodiment, the specialist performing work in the field, the clamp 190, the guide 230, the actuator 240 and the bearing part 101 of the connector are provided as a single set of equipment for performing cable termination. After stripping, chipping off the fiber end and laying it, the specialist only needs to install the fiber end right next to the specific location relative to the alignment section 213 located on the fixture, clamp the back of the fiber 135 with the clamp 190 and actuate the splice using the trigger mechanism 240. The only “assembly procedure” "is the connection of the cap 180/180 'with the bearing part 101 of the connector.

Figures 14-22 show an alternative embodiment of a cable termination tool or tool 300. With such an alternative fixture, the terminated fiber can be fixed to a part of the tool when processing the end of the fiber. In addition, the tool provides a repeatable, accurate installation of the fiber in the optical connector. Moreover, the device in this alternative embodiment of the invention allows the specialist to use a fully assembled connector when terminating the cable in the field. The fixture 300 has a base 310 and a guide channel 312 formed therein.

The fixture 300 further has a connector holder 302 configured to mount and fix an optical connector, such as the connector 100 shown in FIG. 17, when terminating an optical fiber. The fixture 300 may further have an actuator 340 having a lever or pusher 346 configured to push on the cover of the splicing device in a connector, such as a splice cover 144 (see FIG. 20). For example, you can press the lever or pusher 346 until it comes into contact with the splice lid, which activates the splice. The pusher 346 can be connected to the base 310 via levers 344.

In addition, fixture 300 has a fiber holder assembly 370 having a base 372. In a preferred embodiment, the fiber holder assembly base 372 is configured to slide and move smoothly in a channel 312 provided in the base 310 of the fixture. In addition, the base 372 additionally has its own channel or groove 371 made therein.

As shown in FIG. 15, the assembly 370 has a buffer clip pusher 380 and a fiber holder portion 390 that are smoothly mounted in a groove or channel 371 of the assembly base 372. Section 390 can be locked into the groove 371 by means of fastening means, such as a locking screw or bolt (not shown). According to an exemplary embodiment of this embodiment of the invention, the fixture base 310, assembly 370, and their elements can be made or molded from a polymeric material, although metal and other suitable rigid materials can be used.

The assembly base 372 further has stops 374A and 374B that are capable of stopping the smooth forward movement of the plunger 380, for example, by contacting the clip grips 386A and 386B (see the example in FIG. 18B below). In addition, the base assembly 372 additionally has stops 373A and 373B, which can be configured to install and connect with a typical fiber cleaver. Thus, before processing the end of the fiber and after it, the fiber can be in the same device.

The pusher 380 is configured to couple or, in other words, actuate the cuff of the buffer clip, such as the cuff 160 (see the example in FIG. 20). For example, the pusher 380 may have a funnel-shaped portion 382 and a pointed end portion 381 adapted to fit into the collar 160 or a portion thereof. The funnel-shaped portion serves as a guide for the optical fiber, such as the optical fiber 135 conducted through the portion (see Fig. 18A and Fig. 18B). The pusher 380 may further have handles or cams 386A and 386B that allow the pusher to be manually moved when terminating the fiber optic. The pusher 380 can be made in the form of a two-piece structure, which can have an open position (as shown in Fig. 22) or a closed position (see Fig. 14). For example, the pusher can be held in a closed position by a spring 397 mounted on the pivot axis 396. The pusher 380 can be brought into the open position by depressing the cams 386A and 386B, overcoming the force of the spring.

As mentioned, the assembly 370 may further have a slide holder 390 that is slideably mounted therein. In order to guide the fiber for the end termination, the holder 390 has a guide 391. To hold the fiber in the guide 391, the terminal 392 can be used when performing the end termination, such as the eccentric clip shown in Fig. 14, in the closed position, as shown on Figa and Figv. When using this design, even strongly curved fibers (due to winding on the spool) can be easily fixed in the right direction with this device

The fixture base 310 shown in FIG. 16 further has a spring-loaded latch for securing the assembly 370 and fixing its position. For example, the fixture base 310 may further have a latch spring 303 fixed to the base 310 by a spring spindle 304. The spring 303 has a protruding portion or hook 307 configured to engage in a portion of the assembly base 372. A lock screw or bolt 305 can be used to secure the spring spindle 304.

In fact, the fixture 300 makes it easy to terminate the cable in the optical connector 100 in the field. In addition, you can use an optical connector that is fully assembled under stationary factory conditions, so that additional field assembly of the connector is not necessary.

For example, FIG. 18A, FIG. 18B, and FIGS. 19-22 show that the assembly 370 can be removed from the fixture by opening the spring-loaded latch so that the assembly can slide smoothly along the channel 312 of the fixture base 310. The splice actuation mechanism 340 can be raised, allowing the connector 100 to be inserted into the connector flange or holder 302 (see example in FIG. 19), for example, by means of a latch. In this example, an optical connector 100 is used, such as shown in FIG. 17, having a protective cap 180 ′ pre-mounted on it with a funnel-shaped shank 183. After installing the connector, the splice driving mechanism 340 can be returned to the position above the cover 144.

During termination, an optical fiber, such as the fiber 135 shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, can be installed in the assembly by pulling the fiber through the funnel-shaped portion 382 of the pusher 380. The fiber 135 can be held by engaging the fiber clamp 392 and setting it in the closed position. The clip 392 is configured to clamp a fiber with conventional external insulation, such as a conventional fiber having a buffer sheath with a diameter of 900 μm or 250 μm.

Optical fiber 135 is preliminarily prepared by stripping and chipping its end (transverse or at an angle) to match the orientation of a length of optical fiber pre-installed in the optical connector. In a preferred embodiment, to perform the processing of the end of the fiber, its portion 135 ″ may protrude to the required distance beyond the end of the assembly, for example, from 40 to 50 mm. The pusher 380 can be placed along the groove or channel 371 at an acceptable distance (such as shown in FIG. 18A) from the holder 390 to allow the fiber to be fixed during stripping and shearing. The fiber insulating plastic coating can be stripped using a typical mechanical device for stripping fiber ends. A small amount of plastic coating may protrude beyond the end of assembly 370. The glass portion of the fiber can be wiped clean. Using a typical spalling device, such as described above, it is possible to spall the fiber when it is held in the assembly.

As shown in FIG. 18B, after processing the end of the fiber, the pusher 380 can be advanced along the groove 371 so that the cut of the end 381 is approximately flush with the cut of the end of the optical fiber. Such placement can protect the processed fiber end during this end termination stage of the optical fiber. In addition, this arrangement allows you to initially install the end of the fiber in the rear end of the connector, while there is no need to visually monitor the placement of the end of the fiber, as for visual inspection you can use the end of the pusher.

The assembly 370 with the processed end of the optical fiber disposed therein can be installed in the channel 312 of the fixture base 310 so that the hook of the spring 303 engages with it. As shown in FIG. 19, the assembly can be moved forward (i.e., shifted in the direction of the mounted connector) by applying a small force to the handles 394A and 394B. When the end 381 touches the cuff 160 of the connector 100, the pusher 380 stops moving, but the fiber holder 390 continues to push the processed end of the fiber into the splice splicing element (see FIG. 20) located in the connector. Then, the processed end of the optical fiber 135 collides with the prepared segment of the optical fiber 134. The fiber 135 begins to bend, as shown in Fig. 19, while the bending of the fiber 135A is a visual indication for the specialist that contact has occurred with the end of the fiber. In a preferred embodiment, the spring hook 307 may be configured to capture a portion of the assembly 370 and stop the movement at the moment the fiber begins to bend. Thus, the fiber will be kept in a curved state during actuation of the splice and buffer clip.

After touching the fibers, which results in the end-to-end alignment of the fibers 134 and 135, the mechanism 346 can be pressed against the cover 144 to bring together the wings of the splicing element 142. After actuating the splice, a buffer clip can be actuated. For example, further force can be applied to the handles or cams 386A and 386B, whereby the end 381 of the pusher pushes the collar 160 and it is pushed onto the insert 145 (see FIG. 21). In accordance with the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 23, insert 145 may be formed with two or more clamped members sealed at one end, such as clamping members 145A in the form of wedges or teeth, which can compress the protective sheath of the optical fiber upon cuffs 160 are actuated. These clamping members 145A may have a fixed end and a free end. The fixed end of the clamping member is preferably located at the rear end of the connector sleeve, as shown in FIG. In the process, when the cuff 160 is pushed onto the insert, the free ends of the clamping elements 145A are displaced inward, turned away from the fixed end and bite the buffer shell, thereby holding the fiber 135.

After actuating the buffer clip, the termination of the optical fiber into the connector is completed. The optical fiber clip 392 can again be moved to the open position, as a result of which the optical fiber is released and said bending of the optical fiber is selected. In addition, the pusher 380 may be installed in the open position to loosen the terminated fiber by disengaging the spring latch 107, as shown in FIG.

Additionally, if it is necessary to check the quality of termination of the optical fiber in the optical connector, the holder or capture 302 of the connector can be made with the possibility of connection with the receiver or light source. Additionally, to control the attenuation of the signal during the termination of the optical fiber, the user can install a system that includes a light source and a receiver. Upon completion of work, the actuator 346 can be lifted, after which the finished connector with cable can be removed from the holder or gripper 302. In the future, the user can use the connector as he sees fit.

Thus, in accordance with this alternative embodiment of the invention, with the aid of the device, it is possible to terminate the optical fiber in the field without polishing its end and using epoxy glue. In addition, the tool or device is configured to be reusable. When using such a device, it is possible to easily work even with strongly curved (due to winding on the reel) fibers. The described optical connector can be pre-assembled in the factory, including with a pre-assembled protective cap. The buffer clip actuator can also be used to protect the optical fiber during its initial installation in the optical connector.

On Fig-26 shows another, alternative example of a fixture 400 for terminating optical fiber. This device provides multiple precise installation of the fiber in the optical connector and the application of the required force, causing bending of the fiber during installation, regardless of the type of fiber. In addition, the device described in this embodiment of the invention allows the use of a fully assembled connector when terminating the cable in the field. The manufacture of such a device does not require significant costs, which makes it possible to provide the consumer with an inexpensive tool.

The device 400 has a base 410 in which a guide channel 412, a brake jaw 413 and a brake release lever 411 are formed. The device 400 further has a connector holder or grip 402 adapted to receive and fix an optical connector, such as the connector 100 shown in FIG. 17 , in the implementation of the termination of the optical fiber. The connector holder 402 may be attached to the fixture by means of mechanical fasteners, such as bolts or latches. Alternatively, the holder 402 may be attached to the fixture by means of glue or other bonding method, for example, by welding. In a preferred embodiment, the holder 402 can be attached to the base 410 by means of a removable fastener, which will provide replacement of the holder when using devices with connectors of different types.

The fixture 400 may further have an actuator 440 that has a lever or pusher 446 configured to bring a splice cover placed in a connector, such as a splice cover 144 (see FIG. 20), and push the splice cover. For example, to actuate the splice, you can press on the lever or pusher 446 until the splice cover is connected to the splicing element. In this embodiment, the pusher 446 can be attached to the base 410 via levers 444. In particular, the levers 444 can be fastened to the side of the base 410.

In addition, fixture 400 has an optical fiber holder assembly 470 having a base 472. In a preferred embodiment, the optical fiber holder assembly base 472 is configured to fit in a channel 412 of the fixture base 410. In this case, the base 47 of the assembly of the holder of the optical fiber further has its own channel or groove 471 made in it. In accordance with this embodiment, the base of the device 410, the assembly 470 of the holder and their elements can be made or molded from a polymeric material.

As shown in FIG. 25, the assembly 470 has a buffer clamp actuator 480 and optical fiber holders 492A, 492B, and 492C. Fiber holders are designed to hold and temporarily fix the optical fiber when performing its termination. Each of the holders may have one or more optical fiber guides or channels arranged in one line to hold the optical fiber in the axial direction along the entire device having a considerable length. For example, guides or channels 491A-491E may be provided.

In this embodiment, the first optical fiber holder 492A is formed as part of a buffer clip actuator 480, i.e. in the form of an assembly unit 470, which is located in the groove or channel 471. The buffer clip mechanism 480 also has a funnel-shaped fiber guide 482 (or narrowing), through which the fiber can be guided, as well as to drive the buffer clip of the connector 100 held in the holder 402 .

The holder assembly base 472 has a second holder 492B and a third optical fiber holder or clip 492C, each of which is pivotally attached to the holder assembly base 472. In this case, the same or different clamping devices can be used as holders 492A, 492B and 492C. For example, the holder 492A may snap into place when the fiber is installed, however, the holder may have a free play to hold optical fibers of different diameters. The holder 492B can cover the installed fiber, but it is preferable not to fix it with a latch, using the gravity of the holder to hold the fiber. The holder 492C can be made in the form of an optical fiber clip, through which it is possible to clamp the installed fiber to securely hold it in the holder assembly.

The base 410 further has stops 420 configured to stop the sliding of the clip mechanism 480, for example, by touching the handles or cams 486A and 486B. The stops 420 can additionally be made with a slight overhang over the channel 412 so that the base 472 does not rise above the channel 412 during the bending of the fiber.

The base assembly 472 of the holder additionally has stops 473A and 473B, which can be engaged with the stops made in the base 410 and which, if desired, can be connected to a typical device for cleaving optical fiber. Thus, the optical fiber can be placed in the same tool before processing the end of the fiber and after it.

The buffer clip mechanism 480 is adapted to engage or otherwise actuate the buffer clip cuffs, such as the cuff 160 (see FIG. 20). For example, the buffer clip mechanism 480 may have a funnel-shaped optical fiber guide 482 and a pointed end 481 made with the ability to dock with the cuff 160 or its section. The funnel-shaped portion serves as a guide for the optical fiber, such as an optical fiber 135 installed in such a guide. The buffer clip mechanism 480 may further have handles or cams 486A and 486B allowing the user to move the buffer clip mechanism during the termination of the optical fiber.

Each of the optical fiber holders may have at least one optical fiber guide. For example, the holder 492C may be in the form of an eccentric clip used in the closed position to hold the optical fiber in the guide 491D during the termination of the optical fiber. In addition, the optical fiber holder 492C may have a piece of foam 493 (or other compliant material) attached to the bottom surface of the holder so that the fiber fits snugly against it. In addition, channel 491E may be formed at the end of base 472 of the holder assembly to provide additional support. When using this design, fibers with different coating thicknesses can be easily and simply clamped and extended in line by means of device 400.

As mentioned, in this alternative embodiment, the fixture 400 has a base 410 with a brake sponge 413 formed therein and a brake lever 411. The brake sponge 413 may be in the form of a protrusion so that when the base assembly 472 of the holder is placed in the channel 412, the brake the sponge 413 can engage with or press on the side of the base 472 to temporarily hold the base 472 and prevent it from moving in the axial direction when the fiber begins to bend when performing termination tsya.

The brake release lever 411 may also be provided in the base 410 to provide a locking function so that the buffer clip of the connector, such as the sleeve 160, is not prematurely actuated by the buffer clip mechanism 480. For example, closer to the end of its guide, it is possible to prevent further movement of the clip clamp actuator 480 until the brake release lever 411 is actuated. In this embodiment, the brake release lever 411 may be a push device having a shoulder 414 that engages one of handles or cams 486A and 486B of the buffer clip until the user actuates the lever, i.e. by moving the shoulder 414 and disengaging it from the handle or cam of the clip clip mechanism.

In fact, the process of terminating the optical fiber in the optical connector 100 using the tool 400 can be carried out easily and simply. In this case, there is no need for additional assembly of the connector in the field, and a specialist can use the optical connector fully assembled in stationary factory conditions.

The connector 100 may be installed in the holder or grip 402, for example, by means of a latch. In this example, an optical connector 100, such as shown in FIG. 17, can be used with a protective cap 180 'pre-installed on it having a funnel-shaped shank 183. After installing the connector, the splice actuation mechanism 440 can be in the initial position directly above the cover 144 splice.

Optical fiber, such as optical fiber 135, can be prepared by stripping and cleaving (across or at an angle) so that it matches the orientation of the terminated segment of the optical fiber pre-installed in the optical connector. Fiber 135 can be processed before installation in assembly 470 or after installation. In one example, for processing the end of a fiber, a portion of this fiber may extend an acceptable length beyond the end of the holder assembly, for example, from 40 to 50 mm. Buffer clip mechanism 480 may be placed at an acceptable distance from holder 470 along a groove or channel 471 to provide support for the optical fiber when it is stripped and cleaved. The insulating plastic coating of the optical fiber can be stripped using a typical optical fiber stripper. A small amount of plastic coating may protrude beyond the end of assembly 470. The glass portion of the fiber can be wiped clean. Using a typical spalling device, such as described above, it is possible to spall the fiber when it is held in the assembly.

Prior to actuation, the buffer clip mechanism 480 may be positioned at the front end of the holder assembly 470. When terminating, optical fiber, such as optical fiber 135, can be installed in the holder assembly by inserting the fiber into the funnel-shaped portion 482 of the buffer clamp mechanism 480 and into the guides 491A-491E so that the end of the fiber extends beyond the cut of portion 481. The optical fiber 135 can be held by establishments in holders 492A, 492B and 492C and the installation of one or more holders in the closed position. The holders can be configured to compress the outer shell of a standard optical fiber, in particular having a buffer shell with a diameter of 900 or 250 microns.

The fiber can then be pulled back out of the holder assembly so that the processed end of the fiber is flush with the cut of the funnel-shaped end 481. Such placement can protect the processed end of the fiber during this end termination step of the optical fiber. In addition, this arrangement allows you to initially install the end of the fiber in the rear end of the connector, while there is no need to visually monitor the placement of the end of the fiber, as for visual inspection you can use the end of the clip mechanism.

The holder assembly 470 with the machined end located therein can be installed in the channel 412 of the fixture base 410. The holder assembly can be moved forward (i.e., shifted in the direction of the mounted connector) by applying a small force to the holder assembly base 472. The base 472 and the buffer clamp mechanism 480 together move along the channel 412 until the brake lever 411, for example, the shoulder 414, engages with them via at least one of the handles or cams 486A and 486B. This engagement of the buffer clip mechanism 480 prevents further movement of the funnel-shaped end 481 until the user disengages the release lever 411, as described above. Assembly 472 may continue to be moved along channel 412.

When the assembly 472 continues to be moved forward and when the processed end of the optical fiber begins to be connected to the terminated segment of the optical fiber in the splice located in the carrier portion 101 of the connector, the first optical fiber holder 492A can engage in the protrusions 475 and 476 made in the assembly base 472. As the protrusions 475 and 476 continue to move relative to the mounted buffer clip mechanism 480, the first protrusion 475 may begin to lift the optical fiber holder 492A. With further axial movement of the base 472, the second protrusion 476 can further raise the holder 492A.

The gradual and automatic lifting of the holder 492A allows the fiber 135 to bend or bend without further displacement in the axial direction when its processed end is bent into the terminated segment of the optical fiber. In addition, the second optical fiber holder 492B may also be lifted to accommodate the curved portion of the optical fiber, such bending may occur when using a fiber of a certain stiffness. When the end of the optical fiber bumps into the terminated segment of the optical fiber, further, by means of the brake jaw 413, it is possible to prevent the base 472 from moving away from the mounting portion of the connector.

Then, the lever or pusher 446 can be pressed against the splice cover placed in the connector 100, such as the cover 144, to actuate the splice.

The brake release lever 411 may then be pressed so that the shoulder 414 disengages from at least one of the handles or cams 486A and 486B, and the buffer clip mechanism 480, especially the end 481, can move further in the direction of the connector. The end 481 can be completely advanced forward to actuate the cuff 160 of the buffer clip located in the connector 100.

When actuating the buffer clip, the termination of the optical fiber in the connector is completed. The holder 492C can again be moved to the open position, the fiber being straightened, and the connector 100 can be removed from the holder 402.

Thus, as is clear from the above description, in a device made in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention, it is possible to place an optical fiber with a wider range of external diameter and stiffness, for example, with an external coating diameter of 250 μm, with a soft PVC coating (PVC) with a diameter of 900 microns, a rigid polyamide coating with a diameter of 900 microns, etc. Such a device provides an acceptable axial force at the end of the fiber. The force must be high enough so that the fiber can be installed in the area of the splicing connector, but should not be excessive, since the end of the fiber can be damaged. Optical fiber can be properly installed in such a device, and the assembled connector can simply be removed from such a device.

In a further alternative embodiment, the fixture 400 ', such as shown in FIG. 28A and FIG. 28B can be used to terminate the optical fiber into the connector 100 having a protective cap structure, such as that of the above-described cap 180 ″ shown in FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B. As mentioned, the cap 180 ″ may have a crimp ring 119 to press the carrier element (s) of the fiber cable 135B against the adapter ring of the connector 100. The cap 180 ″ also has an outer protective sheath made of polymeric material 187 and a cable crimp ring 189 (shown on Figv), made with the possibility of pressing against the outer protective sheath of the fiber cable 135V. As a 135V fiber cable, for example, there may be a drop cable with a protective sheath of 3.5 mm diameter for an optical fiber with an outer diameter of 900 μm.

In particular, the fixture 400 'can be made similar to the fixture 400 described above. For example, the fixture 400' may have a base 410 and a holder or grip 402 configured to receive and hold the optical connector 100. The fixture 400 'may further have an actuator 440, which has a lever or pusher 446, made with the possibility of summing and pressing the lid of the splice placed in the connector.

In addition, depending on the configuration of the 180 ’cap, the fixture 400’ may have a buffer clip mechanism mounted on the assembly of the fiber optic holder (such as described above) that can engage or otherwise actuate the buffer clip cuff, such as cuff 160 (see Fig. 20). In this embodiment, the fiber guide 482 ′ can be used to connect to or a portion of the buffer clip cuff. Guide 482 'provides directional installation of coated fibers, such as 135B optical fiber. In this case, the guide 482 'does not need to be in the form of a funnel, and it can be made with the possibility of passage of the adapter ring 188.

As mentioned above, the frame of the connector 100 may be equipped with a transition ring 188 made of metal, such as aluminum, and mounted on the frame 116 of the connector (see Figure 2). The adapter ring can hold the buffer clip cuff in the open position during transport and can provide for the actuation of the clip clip buffer ring guide 482 '. The adapter ring can also protect the bearing part of the connector, especially its frame, from damage during crimping the cable carrier (s).

When terminating an optical fiber, a protective cap, such as a 180 ’cap, can be pulled over the cable, and the cable carrier (s) (not shown) can bend around the entire surface of the crimp ring 119. The fiber with a protective sheath can be peeled and chipped. A section with a protective sheath can be placed in the holder 495, which grips the fiber cable 135B so that the end of the optical fiber (and the supporting element (s)) remains stationary relative to the protective sheath of the cable. In order to provide a specialist access to the elements of the cap, a slot can be made in the holder 495. Also in a preferred embodiment, the clip is located at or near the rear end of the holder 495. Fiber cable holder 495 may also have a cone-shaped element on its inner surface to provide additional support for the fiber cable during termination.

The connector 100 can be placed in the grip 402, and the holder assembly and the buffer clamp mechanism can be installed in the guide channel, such as described above and shown in Fig.24-26. The edge of the guide can be placed so that it can be aligned with the end of the cuff of the buffer clip.

Then, as shown sequentially in FIGS. 28A and 28B, the processed end of the optical fiber can be passed through the buffer clip mechanism by moving the holder 495 until it reaches its forward position. In order to hold the holder 495 during the termination of the fiber, for example, an elastic latch 496 can be used on the side of the holder 495 and which can engage a portion of the base 410. Such an advance can cause the fiber to bend (such as described above) to allow it axial preload for splicing. Then, to actuate the splice, you can click on the actuator 446.

According to the method described above and shown in FIGS. 24-26, the cams of the clip mechanism can be pushed forward to actuate the clip clip of the connector 100. After the connector 100 is removed from the tool, the cap 180 ″ can be secured by pushing the carrier (s) onto the transition ring and compressing it between the transition ring 188 and the compression ring 119. The excess of the carrier can be cut off. Crimping can be done using a typical crimping tool (similar to commercially available crimping tools for the SC type connector). The connector, attached cable, and fiber cable holder 495 can then be removed from the base. Then, the cap 180 ″ can be pulled onto the adapter ring 188 of the frame, while using the holder 495, to maintain the correct placement of the optical fiber, the supporting element and the cable sheath. The 180 '' cap can be tightened. The crimp ring can then be squeezed using a typical, sized crimp tool to secure the cable elements. Clamp 495 can then be removed.

In the tool 400 'of this alternative embodiment of the invention, it is possible to place a cable with a protective sheath with a diameter of 3.5 mm and a supporting element (s) for unloading the tension, and such a device makes it possible to unload the pulling force on the connector frame, for example, it is possible to withstand the pulling force of the order 4.4 lbs. (19.6 N). In addition, this design of the fixture for terminating optical fiber allows operations to be performed under adverse conditions other than stationary factory ones, for example, when laying networks using optical fiber for residential buildings, while reducing the need for them to carry out operations with brittle optical fiber without coating with an external diameter 250 microns or 900 microns and reduces the need for trays to accommodate the supply of fiber.

In another example shown in FIG. 30A and FIG. 30B, an alternative fixture 400 ″, similar to those described above, has an actuator 440 and a holder assembly 470 ″ configured to fit in a guide channel formed in the base 410. In addition to in addition, a buffer clip actuator guide portion 482 serves to actuate the buffer clip of the optical connector, for example by moving the arms or cams 486A and 486B toward the connector. The fixture 400 '' also has a clip 499 having a handle 499A and a slot 499B that is capable of gripping a protective sheath of a fiber cable, such as cable 135B, so that the end of the optical fiber (and the carrier (s)) remain stationary relative to this sheath. As shown in FIG. 30A, the clip 499 can be installed in the clip holder 498 located at the end of the fiber cable holder 495 ″. The clip holder 498 has a channel for accommodating the fiber cable and an orthogonal hole for receiving the cable sheathing cable clamp 499. The clip 499 is then installed in the hole and moves in the direction of the cable until the cable is clamped over its slot 499B over the cable sheath. The holder 495 ″ also has an open base portion having a groove 497 configured to provide access to a protective cap, such as a 180 ’cap shown in FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B, and to be locked in place when terminating an optical fiber .

The described optical connectors can be used in many typical situations in which it is necessary to use an optical connector, for example, when working with branch cables and / or jumpers. Such optical connectors can also be used for terminating optical fibers for internal connections and cross-connection in fiber-optic networks inside a distribution center located in the equipment room or in a wall distribution panel, inside support structures, wiring closets, outside or inside outlets in rooms where fiber cable is used. Such optical connectors can also be used for terminating optical fibers in optical equipment. In addition, one or more of the described optical connectors may find other uses.

As mentioned above, the optical connector in the embodiments of the invention has a small length and is configured to terminate the optical fiber in the field and for a short assembly time. Such connectors can be easily installed and used when laying networks using fiber optics for residential buildings and / or other facilities using FTTH or FTTX technology. For example, as shown in FIG. 29A and FIG. 29B, an optical connector having a structure such as the optical connector 100 described above and shown in FIG. 17 can be used as part of a fiber optic distribution point 500.

Currently, conventional fiber-optic cable trays (such as BCCO II Sliding Optical Patch Panel manufactured by ZM, located in St. Paul, Minnesota) have fiber optic pigtails (each having one end pre-plugged into the connector) that splices fiber distribution cable in a separate section of the fiber splice tray. Since the cables of subscriber lines are terminated in the field in the connectors described in the embodiments of the claimed invention, pigtails with pre-embedded ends in the connector are not required. This design provides a more compact fiber distribution tray. Thus, through the use of connectors 100 in specific cases, the need for separate structural elements disappears.

The distribution point 500 has a tray 510, made with the possibility of removable installation in a distribution cabinet of fiber optic lines. Tray 510 may preferably be made of inflexible metal or plastic. For example, the tray 510 can be attached to the left and right holders 540A and 540B, which can be connected to the vertical bars of a conventional telecommunications equipment rack so that the distribution center can be opened and closed along axis 512. Fiber optic distribution center 500 can be used, for example, in the central office (for example, on a hardware rack or switchboard) and in linear structures (in a cable distribution cabinet or patch panel socket).

In the distribution point 500 on the front panel 520, a large number of connectors can be installed in the connectors 522. Each of the connectors 100 forms an end termination of the fiber optic subscriber line 530 coming from a distribution cable (not shown), which has a large number of subscriber lines. Each of the connectors 522 located on the front panel can be installed at an angle to make a more compact device, since mounting at an angle reduces the space in front of the panel needed to bend the fiber. Alternatively, each of the connectors 522 may be mounted substantially in a row parallel to the axis 512.

Each of the connectors 522 located on the front panel may be configured to install a connector 100 at one end and a typical connector (eg, an SC or LC type connector) on the other. Alternatively, each of the connectors 522 located on the front panel may be configured to install a connector 100 at both ends. In addition, the front panel 520 may have more than one row of connectors (for example, a second row may be made directly below the connectors 522 shown in FIG. 29A and FIG. 29B). The tray 510 may also have a shield 514 extending beyond the connectors 522 to protect the connectors mounted on the front side from accidental contact and to provide an acceptable bending radius of the optical fiber connected to couplers installed in front of the fiber optic distribution point 500.

For example, the fiber optic distribution point 500 has a number of optical fiber guides 532 that determine the position of the optical fiber 530 when the point 500 is closed, as shown in FIG. 29A. When point 500 is opened, as shown in FIG. 29B, the optical fiber 530 exits freely from the rails 532. In addition, the distribution point 500 has one or more fiber clips 534 arranged on the tray 510 that provide compact winding of excess fiber loops. As shown in FIG. 29A and FIG. 29B, the fiber 530 is connected to the connector 100. The excess fiber is wound into a loop 535. As shown in FIG. 29A and FIG. 29B, at least a portion of the loop 535 is located beyond the region of the connectors, thereby providing a more compact tray design.

In addition, the use of a connector 100 having a protective cap 183, such as described above and shown in FIG. 17, can provide a more compact laying of the fiber loop and, therefore, a shorter length of the tray, since curved fiber can be placed at the end of the cap at the end of the connector frame , unlike the end of a conventional cap. In addition, this design of the connector / distribution point can reduce the risk of bending the fiber in excess of the permissible value, which can lead to poor optical signal transmission. The described design of the connector can additionally provide more compact designs of other linear structures, such as remotes, contactors, terminals and devices for connecting optical fiber to the network, and other objects.

Various options, equivalent methods, as well as numerous designs to which the claimed invention can be applied, are obvious to those skilled in the art who are invited to consider this description.

Claims (10)

1. An optical connector for terminating an optical fiber, comprising a housing made corresponding to the counterpart and a sleeve located in the housing, wherein the sleeve has a terminated segment of optical fiber located in its first part, wherein the terminated segment of optical fiber includes a first optical fiber installed in the tip and having the first end, located near the end surface of the tip, and the second end, while the coupling further comprises a mechanical splice located in its second part, configured to splicing a second end terminated with a segment of optical fiber to the second optical fiber, wherein the sleeve further has a buffer clamp configured in its third portion, the buffer clamp configured to compress at least a portion of a buffer cladding of the second fiber upon actuation clamp in place. 2. The optical connector according to claim 1, further comprising a protective cap connected to the housing to limit lateral displacement of the second fiber, the cap having a shank made in the shape of a cone, or in the form of a funnel, or in the form of movably connected segments. 3. The optical connector according to claim 2, in which the protective cap further comprises a crimp ring made with the possibility of pressing against the housing of the supporting element of the fiber cable containing the second optical fiber, while the protective cap also contains an external protective sheath that limits the lateral displacement of the cable, and cable crimp ring, capable of directly crimping the outer sheath of the cable to reduce its possible longitudinal deformation and axial displacement of the fiber optic cable elements . 4. The optical connector according to claim 1, further comprising a buffer clip cuff configured to slide onto the outer surface of the third part of the coupling and actuate the buffer clip. 5. The optical connector according to claim 1, in which the housing has an outer shell and a frame located inside it, while the clutch is held inside the frame. 6. The optical connector according to claim 1, in which the buffer clip is made in the form of a compressing element with the possibility of its placement in the third part of the coupling, and having the ability to wrinkle when actuating the buffer clip, or in the form of a corrugated outer surface of the third part of the coupling, which is wrinkled when actuating the buffer clip, or in the form of a structure with two protrusions located inside the third part of the coupling and having parts protruding beyond the outer surface of the third part of the coupling and which are crushed when Denia in buffer clamping action. 7. An optical fiber distribution point comprising a tray configured to be removably mounted to a fiber optic distribution cabinet, the tray having a front surface configured to accommodate a plurality of connectors, each of the connectors being configured to install an optical connector therein forming an end termination of the optical fiber from the distribution line, while the optical connector is made according to any one of claims 1 to 6. 8. A fixture for terminating an optical fiber, comprising a base configured to hold an optical connector made according to any one of claims 1 to 6, a first actuator for actuating a splice of an optical connector and a second actuator for actuating a buffer clamp of the optical connector, as well as the holder of the optical fiber, capable of holding the optical fiber in the device when performing its termination. 9. The device of claim 8, further comprising a fiber optic cable holder configured to grip the outer protective sheath of the fiber cable having at least one support member and an optical termination cable so that the end of the optical fiber and at least , one of its supporting elements remained stationary relative to the outer protective sheath of the cable. 10. The method of terminating the optical fiber into an optical connector, which is an optical connector, made according to claim 1, in which the end of the optical fiber is processed by removing a small amount of the insulating shell of the optical fiber and chipping off the end of the optical fiber, the processed end of the optical fiber is brought into a pre-assembled optical connector, advancing until the end of the optical fiber abuts against the second end of the terminated segment of the optical fiber and the optical fiber begins to bend, plays, sraschivaya treated fiber end to a second end terminated with optical fiber segment, the buffer portion is crimped fiber in an optical fiber connector and release.

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