18 fiber cylindrical cable connector (FLASH contract)

The Avionics Multifiber Array Connector, AVMAC, is an optical connecting device that utilizes circular connector technology with MACII technology to align 18 channel fiber optic ribbon cable. There presently is no inexpensive high-density avionic fiber optic connector. The AVMAC connector is being designed to meet this void. It also shows good promise to be sufficiently rugged for military applications. The AVMAC connector will use a ruggedized MACII v-groove alignment array enclosed in a circular protective housing. This contact assembly will be rear insertable into and removable from a MIL-C-83723 connector. A MIL-C-83723 connector incorporating a special insert will be the initial testbed. However, with small modifications to the basic design, a multitude of different circular and rack-in-panel connectors might be used. The AVMAC connector offers a gang terminated 18 channel fiber optic interconnection all within a very small footprint of approximately 0.5 inch in diameter, and is designed to be installable through 0.5 inch conduit. The design hurdles are: 1) developing a new polishing technique to prevent intimate contact of the fiber faces to prevent cracking during extreme vibration and shock, 2) selection of an epoxy and cure schedule development to handle the extreme temperature requirements, and 3) in general, material and process development in order to ruggedize the design to survive the harsh environment and performance requirements of an avionic and possibly military application. A preliminary design of the AVMAC connector has been completed and a prototype model built. This model is currently undergoing vibration and optical performance testing. The AVMAC connector is scheduled to be finalized and fully qualifiable by end of 1995 as part of the FLASH (Fly-by-Light Advanced System Hardware) contract.