Multifiber optical connectors for avionics

Anthony G. Lubowe; Troy P Million; Emile George Sayegh; Fred Baumann

doi:10.1117/12.254220

14 October 1996 Multifiber optical connectors for avionics

Anthony G. Lubowe, Troy P Million, Emile George Sayegh, Fred Baumann

Proceedings Volume 2840, Fly-by-Light III; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.254220
Event: SPIE's 1996 International Symposium on Optical Science, Engineering, and Instrumentation, 1996, Denver, CO, United States

Abstract

Until now, there has been no reasonably priced high-density avionics fiber optic connector. AVMAC^TM connector assemblies, designed to meet this need, consist of Berg AVMAC connectors (F/O contacts), Gore ribbon cable, and HiRelco^TM special self-locking plugs and receptacles. Berg Electronics' MACII multifiber array connector has been used in the telecommunications industry for over 10 years. The 18-fiber version was modified to meet the avionics environment, by using high temperature plastic and epoxy. Also, modified cable assembly techniques were developed for the special cable used. W.L. Core and Associates designed and manufactured the high temperature ruggedized ribbon cable, using patented GORE-TEX^TM ribbon buffer to protect the 18 polyimide coated fibers in the harsh environments specified for avionics applications. New materials were introduced to the commercial Gore ribbon design to meet the McDonnell Douglas Aerospace temperature specifications. The HiRel connector design incorporates the optical fiber ribbon contact and cable assembly into a modified close tolerance Mil-C-83723 connection system to meet the environmental requirements and withstand the high vibration of modern aircraft, and also provide an environmental seal and strain relief. The ability to assemble the connector around a pre-terminated optical link is a key feature, which minimizes assembly and maintenance time over cable assembly life. McDonnell Douglas Aerospace is testing AVMAC qualification cables.

Citation Download Citation

Anthony G. Lubowe, Troy P Million, Emile George Sayegh, and Fred Baumann "Multifiber optical connectors for avionics", Proc. SPIE 2840, Fly-by-Light III, (14 October 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.254220

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