US 11,448,833 B2 · Angle polishing systems and methods for multi-ferrule optical connectors

Abstract

Systems and methods for angle polishing of the end faces of a plurality of optical connectors are provided. Systems are provided that include a connector defining a longitudinal axis, and at least two ferrules mounted with respect to the connector and arranged in a side-by-side orientation. The end faces of the connectors are movable relative to the connector and such movement facilitates lateral orientation of the angle polished end faces of the ferrules relative to the connector when in the mating position. Various mechanisms and methods for facilitating movement of the ferrules relative to the connector are disclosed to achieve the desired lateral polish orientation of the ferrule end faces.

Claims15

Dependent claims

A system for angle polishing of side-by-side ferrules to deliver polished surfaces in a lateral orientation, wherein the system comprises:

a. a connector including a connector body and defining a longitudinal axis;
b. at least two ferrules mounted with respect to the connector body and arranged in a side-by-side orientation, wherein each of the at least two ferrules defines an end face;
wherein the connector body is configured to allow at least one of the at least two ferrules to move relative to the connector body;
wherein movement of the at least one ferrule relative to the connector body facilitates lateral orientation of the angle polished end face of all ferrules relative to the connector body when in a mating position;
and
wherein the connector body includes an initial channel, a main channel, and a transfer channel connecting the initial channel to the main channel.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Angle polishing systems and methods for multi-ferrule optical connectors

Life of this patent

Angle polishing systems and methods for multi-ferrule optical connectors

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims15