Pollution-free optical coupling device

Abstract

The invention relates to an optical fiber coupling device (10) for ensuring contamination-free coupling and uncoupling of an optical fiber to another optical component. The optical fiber coupling device (10) comprises a cover mechanism (20) for opening and closing an axial passage (14) of the optical fiber coupling device (10) through which optical light can be coupled. The cover mechanism (20) comprises a driver element (22) and a cover element (24). The driver element (22) is arranged outside of a main coupling structure (12) of the device and is movable between a first position and a second position. The cover element (24) is arranged inside of the main coupling structure (12) and is movable between a closed position, in which the cover element closes the axial passage (14), and an open position, in which the cover element exposes the axial passage (14). The cover element (24) is magnetically coupled to the driver element (22). The invention also relates to a laser module (60) comprising such an optical fiber coupling device (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of fiber optic connection devices. In particular, this invention relates to a fiber optic connection device for securely establishing optical connections, and to a laser module including such a fiber optic connection device. Background Technology

[0002] When optical units are coupled, such as when a fiber optic connector is attached to a receiving optical port, the optical paths of the two optical components to be coupled are typically exposed to the environment for a period of time. Therefore, there is a risk that during the coupling process, particles from the environment or debris generated by mechanical abrasion may approach the optical port and eventually reach and contaminate downstream optical components. Such particles may, for example, settle on optical lenses, protective glass, or deflectors of the optical system. This can lead to damage or malfunction of these optical components, particularly alterations to their optical properties.

[0003] The risk of contamination is particularly high if the optical coupling is performed in the main vertical direction of the optical axis (light feeding from above). A horizontal orientation can reduce the risk to some extent, but it is impractical in many cases and does not completely eliminate the problem of unwanted contamination.

[0004] To address this, some solutions configure optical components susceptible to potential contamination to be easily removed from the optical system or otherwise accessible to allow for periodic cleaning or replacement. However, this necessitates opening the optical system and consequently exposing it to the environment, representing another potential source of contamination. There is always a risk of potential damage when removing optics for cleaning. Furthermore, the removal and cleaning processes require the optical system to be opened and thus remain unusable for a period, increasing operating costs.

[0005] Other solutions rely on cleaning processes using cleaning fluids such as compressed air or inert gases to clean optical systems, thereby removing contaminants from the optical components. However, this cleaning process increases operating costs and introduces the additional risk of uncontrolled redistribution of contaminant particles within the optical system, potentially recontaminating the same or different optical devices.

[0006] Other solutions are based on performing the coupling operation in a protected environment, such as a so-called cleanroom. However, this requires a specialized workflow because all components involved in the coupling process that may generate contamination particles due to mechanical wear (such as connectors) must be separated from the rest of the optical system and connected to the outside of the cleanroom to prevent contamination of the rest of the optical system. However, this also requires disassembling the optical system, thus increasing the risk of uncontrolled contamination inside the system and loss of fine-tuning.

[0007] Therefore, when light from an optical fiber is connected to an optical system via an optical fiber connector at an optical fiber connection device, there is room for improvement in the technology of protecting the optical system from contamination. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This technological improvement is provided by the present invention, namely by the fiber optic connection device according to the present invention and the optical module according to the present invention, which includes the fiber optic connection device.

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to provide an optical fiber connection device that allows the establishment of an optical connection between an optical fiber and other optical components or systems, particularly optical modules, overcoming the aforementioned technical disadvantages, especially by preventing contamination from entering the other optical components or systems when connecting the optical fiber.

[0010] The fiber optic connection device of the present invention includes a main connection structure, which may include, for example, a metal or plastic material or be made of a metal or plastic material. The main connection structure may be substantially rotationally symmetric about its longitudinal axis. Although some structural components may break strict rotational symmetry, the geometry of the main connection structure may cause it to primarily exhibit this rotational geometry about its longitudinal axis.

[0011] In this application, "axial direction" can refer to a direction parallel to the axis of rotational symmetry of the main connecting structure, that is, a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main connecting structure. For example, the main connecting structure can have a substantially cylindrical geometry, which means that in a section perpendicular to the axial direction, the main connecting structure can have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0012] The main connection structure includes an axial channel extending from a first axial end through the main connection structure to a second axial end. The axial channel may extend substantially parallel to the axial direction of the main connection structure. The axial channel provides an optical path through which light can be transmitted via the fiber optic connection, particularly for complete transmission. The axial channel may, for example, define an opening in the material of the main connection structure through which light can be transmitted. The axial channel may be filled with vacuum, air, or waveguide material. Additionally or optionally, a waveguide portion, such as an optical fiber, may be accommodated within the axial channel. According to some embodiments, the axial channel may have a diameter of 20 mm or less, preferably 8 mm to 12 mm.

[0013] The main connection structure also includes a connection mechanism for attaching an optical fiber connector thereto. The connection mechanism is axially positioned at a first axial end of the axial channel and configured such that when the optical fiber connector is attached to the connection mechanism, light from the optical fiber connector can be transmitted through the axial channel. "Optical connector" herein can refer to any optical component suitable for placement at one end of an optical fiber and for connecting fiber optics to another optical component, particularly the optical fiber connection device utilizing the present invention. The connection mechanism is configured to receive the optical connector such that the optical axis of the optical fiber connector is aligned with the axial opening of the optical fiber connection device, allowing light to be transmitted from the optical fiber, through the optical fiber connector, and through the axial opening substantially without loss or reflection.

[0014] The connection mechanism can conform to any commercially available fiber optic connection standard known to those skilled in the art, such as QBH, QD, or FCH-16. Therefore, the connection mechanism can preferably be adapted to accommodate fiber optic connectors based on any of these optical interconnect standards.

[0015] The connecting mechanism may be arranged at the first axial end of the axial channel, meaning that the connecting mechanism is arranged and / or extends near the first axial end of the axial channel, although it does not need to be precisely arranged and / or precisely extended at the first axial end of the actual channel, but this is possible according to some embodiments of the invention. Setting it "at the first axial end" can specifically mean that the connecting mechanism is arranged and / or extends closer to the first axial end to the second axial end of the actual opening band.

[0016] The fiber optic connection device of the present invention further includes a cover mechanism configured for opening and closing the axial channel. The cover mechanism includes a driver element and a cover element.

[0017] The driver element may be arranged at least partially on the outer side of the main connection structure, preferably entirely on the outer side of the main connection structure. This may specifically mean that no components of the driver element are arranged within the main connection structure. When the fiber optic connector is coupled to the fiber optic connection device, the "outer side" of the main connection structure where the driver element is arranged may correspond to a side or surface of the main connection structure facing the fiber optic connector, away from the interior of the main connection structure. Additionally or alternatively, the "outer side" of the main connection structure where the driver element is arranged may correspond to a side or surface of the main connection structure perpendicular to the axial direction and / or the axial channel extension. The driver element may be movable between a first position and a second position.

[0018] Because the driver element is externally arranged on the main connection structure, it can be operated or mechanically actuated from outside the fiber optic connection device, for example by an operator and / or by functional or mechanical connection with another component. Therefore, the driver element can move from outside the main connection structure between a first position and a second position.

[0019] The cover element is at least partially arranged within the main connecting structure, preferably completely arranged within the main connecting structure. This means that the cover element is at least partially or completely surrounded by the main connecting structure. The cover element is movably attached to the main connecting structure and can move between a closed position and an open position, preferably pivoting between the closed and open positions. In the closed position, the cover element closes the axial channel, i.e., physically blocks the axial channel, preferably tightly blocking the axial channel. In the open position, the cover element exposes the axial channel and does not physically block it. Therefore, considering that the axial channel extends from a first axial end to a second axial end, it can be said that when the cover element is in the open position, the two axial ends of the axial channel can be in fluid communication with each other, while when the cover element is in the closed position, this fluid communication is interrupted by the cover element.

[0020] In other words, in the closed position, the cover element physically intersects with the axial channel, such that the cross-section of the axial channel is covered by the cover element, while in the open position, the cover element does not physically intersect with the axial channel, so that the cross-section of the axial channel is essentially not covered or optically blocked by the cover element.

[0021] The cover element is configured to open and close the axial channel at an axial cover position in an axial channel arranged axially between the first axial end and the second axial end. In particular, the axial cover position can be axially arranged along the axial channel between the second axial end and the axial position of the drive element.

[0022] According to the present invention, the cover element is magnetically connected to the actuator element such that when the actuator element is in a first position, the cover element is in an open position, and when the actuator element is in a second position, the cover element is in a closed position.

[0023] Due to the magnetic connection between the cover element and the actuator element, the cover element follows the movement of the actuator element. In other words, the movement of the cover element is driven by the actuator element. Therefore, the cover element is magnetically driven by the actuator element. Thus, when the actuator element moves to the first position, the cover element moves to the open position, and when the actuator element moves to the second position, the cover element moves to the closed position.

[0024] Specifically, if the drive element moves from the second position to the first position, the cover element moves from the closed position to the open position, and if the drive element moves from the first position to the second position, the cover element moves from the open position to the closed position, particularly in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0025] Therefore, whether the axial channel extending through the main connection structure is closed or open can be controlled from the outside of the main connection structure by a driver element that magnetically drives a cover element disposed internally within the main connection structure. Thus, the cover element can effectively divide the axial channel into a first portion near the first axial end and a second portion near the second axial end. The first portion can be exposed to the environment or an optical fiber or fiber optic connector connected from the first axial end to the fiber optic connection device of the present invention. The second portion can be exposed to the environment from the first axial end only when the cover element is in the open position, but can be isolated from the environment on one side of the first axial end when the cover element is in the closed position. The second portion of the axial channel can be exposed to the environment or disposed or connected to another optical component downstream of the fiber optic connection device of the present invention, regardless of whether the cover element is in the open or closed position.

[0026] Therefore, the cover mechanism of the present invention allows for the selective sealing or unsealing of an axial channel extending through the main connection structure by correspondingly arranging the actuator element, thereby enabling contamination-free optical connection operation: when the fiber optic connector is coupled to the connection mechanism, the cover element can be controlled by the actuator element to remain in a closed position, allowing no contaminants (e.g., particles of material released from the connection mechanism through mechanical abrasion) to penetrate the axial channel. Once the connection operation is complete, allowing the fiber optic connector to be coupled to the connection mechanism and requiring no further movement, the cover element can be controlled by the actuator element to switch to an open position, thereby removing the obstruction to the axial channel and thus allowing optical communication through it. Because the connection between the actuator element and the cover element is magnetic, the actuator element and the cover element can be fluidly isolated from each other, particularly through the main connection structure or at least a portion thereof, and for the operation of the cover mechanism, a through-structure (such as an opening) through the main connection structure is not required, which could open possible pathways for contaminants to penetrate into the system.

[0027] Therefore, the fiber optic connection device of the present invention can be used to optically connect fiber optic connectors (and the optical fibers attached thereto) to other optical components (such as optical modules) in a pollution-free manner, and the fiber optic connection device can be attached to the other optical components.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cover element can be structurally independent of the actuator element. Since the cover element and the actuator element are magnetically connected to each other, no further structural links or connectors are required between them. Therefore, the cover element and actuator element of the present invention can be arranged on / in a spatially separated main connection structure. In particular, there may be no direct contact between the cover element and the actuator element.

[0029] In some embodiments, a portion of the main coupling structure may extend between the driver element and the cover element. The cover element and the driver element can be axially separated from each other by said portion of the main coupling structure extending between the driver element and the cover element. Such a portion may be referred to herein as the “separation portion” of the main coupling structure.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the interior of the main connecting structure, where the cover element is arranged, can be tightly isolated from the exterior of the main connecting structure, where the actuator element is arranged. This tight isolation can be provided by the main connecting structure itself, for example, when the main connecting structure substantially completely surrounds the cover element. Of course, this tight isolation can be disrupted by the axial channel when the axial channel is exposed to the environment, for example, not covered by the cover element referred to below. Therefore, "tight isolation" as used herein can refer to the fact that the interior of the main connecting structure, where the cover element is arranged, can be tightly isolated from the exterior of the main connecting structure, where the actuator element is arranged, such that, apart from the theoretically possible fluid communication through the axial channel, substantially no fluid communication is established between the exterior and interior of the main connecting structure, particularly no direct fluid communication. However, since the actuator element is at least partially arranged on the exterior of the main connecting structure, for example, around the axial channel and around the connecting mechanism, the structure and shape of the main connecting structure can make the possibility of contaminant particles traveling from the exterior of the main connecting structure through the axial channel to the interior of the main connecting structure negligible.

[0031] According to some preferred embodiments, the cover element may include an axial portion extending in an axial direction and a radial portion extending perpendicular to the axial direction (i.e., in a radial direction or radial plane). The cover element may be magnetically coupled to the actuator element via the axial portion, while the cover element may be closed or exposed by the radial portion. Thus, the cover element may include an axial portion and a radial portion, the axial portion extending substantially parallel to the axial direction, particularly substantially parallel to the axial channel, and the radial portion extending substantially perpendicular to the axial channel. The axial portion is the part of the cover element that enables magnetic coupling with the actuator element, such that when the actuator element moves, the actuator element magnetically transmits motion to the axial portion of the cover element, which in turn mechanically transmits this motion to the rest of the cover element, particularly to the radial portion of the cover element, which may then move accordingly to a closed or open position.

[0032] The axial portion of the cover element may include a magnetic portion for achieving magnetic connection with the drive element, particularly through the separation portion of the main connection structure. The radial portion of the cover element may be configured to move perpendicular to the axial direction, particularly substantially perpendicular to the axial channel, for opening and closing the axial channel. The axial and radial portions of the cover element may be substantially connected to each other.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the actuator element may include a magnetic portion for achieving a magnetic connection with a magnetic portion of the cover element. The fiber optic connection structure may be configured such that the actuator element can be disposed on top of the cover element, wherein the magnetic portion of the actuator element perpendicularly overlaps with the magnetic portion of the cover element, thereby achieving a magnetic connection between the magnetic portion of the cover element and the magnetic portion of the actuator element. The magnetic portion of each of the actuator element and the cover element may, for example, comprise a ferromagnetic material, such as neodymium.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cover element, particularly the axial portion of the cover element, can be separated from the drive element, particularly axially separated, by a distance of 5 mm or less, preferably 1 mm or less, for example between 0.5 mm and 1 mm, particularly separated from the drive element by a separation portion of the main connection structure.

[0035] The separating portion of the main connection structure can be the part of the main connection structure where the distance between the cover element and the actuator element is minimized, so as to achieve magnetic connection between the cover element and the actuator element with maximum efficiency. The axial thickness of the separating portion of the main connection structure extending between the cover element and the actuator element can be equal to or less than the distance separating the actuator element from the cover element. The main connection structure, especially its separating portion, can preferably be made of a magnetically permeable material, such as, for example, aluminum or plastic, so as not to shield or inhibit the magnetic connection between the cover element and the actuator element.

[0036] The magnetic portion of the cover element can be arranged at the location of the cover element, particularly at the location of its axial portion, closest to the actuator element (i.e., closest to the separation portion of the main connection structure), and especially closest to the magnetic portion of the actuator element. Therefore, the separation distance between the magnetic portion of the cover element and the magnetic portion of the actuator element can correspond to the shortest axial separation between the cover element and the actuator element through the separation portion of the main connection structure, and can be within the aforementioned range of 5 mm or less, preferably 1 mm or less, for example, between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cover element, particularly the radial portion of the cover element, may include a closing portion configured to completely overlap the cross-section of the axial channel, such that when the cover element is in the closed position, the closing portion completely covers the cross-section of the axial channel. The closing portion may be a part of the cover element, particularly the radial portion, specifically shaped and configured to cover the cross-section of the axial channel when the cover element is in the closed position, particularly at the aforementioned axial cover position. For example, if the axial channel has a circular cross-section with a first diameter, the closing portion of the cover element may have a circular shape with a second diameter greater than the first diameter, such that the closing portion of the cover element can completely overlap the cross-section of the axial channel. The closing portion of the cover element may project radially from the remainder of the radial portion of the cover element; otherwise, it may have an elongated shape.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a recess may be formed in the closed portion of the cover element. When the cover element is in the closed position, the recess faces the first axial end and away from the second axial end toward the interior of the axial channel. The recess may be formed as a deepening on the surface of the closed portion of the cover element configured to face the first axial end, such that final contamination particles, for example, generated due to mechanical wear during engagement, can be collected in the recess of the closed portion, which do not completely pass through the axial channel because the cover element obstructs the axial channel. This ensures that such accumulated potential contamination particles do not circulate uncontrollably through the axial channel even when the closed portion of the cover element moves (particularly in the radial direction) or when the cover element moves between the closed and open positions. The depth of the recess may be between 0.1 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm, wherein the thickness of the closed portion of the cover element (measured in the axial direction) may be between 0.5 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 1.5 mm and 3.5 mm.

[0039] In some embodiments of the invention, when the cover element is in the closed position, the closed portion of the cover element, particularly its surface facing the first axial end, may include an adhesive material, such as an adhesive film or adhesive layer, like silicon, such that final contamination particles resulting from mechanical wear during the connection operation are not completely trapped through the axial channel due to the cover element blocking the axial channel, but are instead adhesively captured by the closed portion. In embodiments where the closed portion includes the aforementioned recess, such adhesive material may be disposed within the recess.

[0040] In some embodiments, the main connection structure may include a guide slit for guiding the movement of a portion of the cover element, particularly its axial portion, wherein the guide slit preferably has a pivot point around the cover element, particularly a curved or arcuate profile substantially perpendicular to the axial direction. The guide slit may be configured to have an extension in the axial direction adapted to receive the axial portion of the cover element, and an extension in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction adapted to allow the axial portion to pivot around the cover element, particularly an extension along the guide slit between an open position and a closed position of the cover element. The cover element may be in a closed position when the axial portion of the cover element is located at a first end of the guide slit, and in an open position when the axial portion of the cover element is located at the other end of the guide slit. Therefore, the guide slit may extend partially around an axial channel such that, as the axial portion of the cover element moves along the guide slit, a radial portion of the axial channel moves perpendicular to the axial channel, such that the axial channel may be blocked or not blocked by the radial portion of the cover element.

[0041] The guide slit can be a dedicated slit deliberately formed in the main connection structure of the fiber optic connector to adapt the fiber optic connector according to the prior art to operate according to the principles of the invention, or formed during the manufacture of the fiber optic connector according to the invention from scratch. However, the guide slit can also be an internal cavity or gap existing in the main connection structure of the fiber optic connector according to the prior art, which eliminates the need for a dedicated guide slit, particularly through an extraction process, to adapt the fiber optic connector to operate according to the principles of the invention. Instead, such a pre-existing cavity or gap can be used to accommodate and guide the axial portion of the cover element, particularly by appropriately adjusting the shape and / or design of the cover element (if desired).

[0042] According to some embodiments, the fiber optic connection device may include one or more limit sensors configured to detect when the cover element reaches or is in a closed position and / or reaches or is in an open position, particularly a fully closed position and / or a fully open position. The fiber optic connection device may also include a control unit connected to or connectable to the one or more limit sensors and configured to detect whether the cover element has reached or is in a closed position and / or reaches or is in an open position, particularly a fully closed position and / or a fully open position, through operative connection with the one or more limit sensors.

[0043] For example, one or more limit sensors and a control unit may be configured to detect whether an axial portion of the cover element is at or reaches a first end and / or a second end of the guide slit. The one or more limit sensors may include, for example, a first limit switch and a second limit switch respectively disposed at the first and second ends of the guide slit, and may be configured to communicate with the control unit regardless of whether the axial portion of the cover element is at or reaches the first and / or a second end of the guide slit.

[0044] Therefore, the control unit can detect whether the cover element is in the (fully) open or (fully) closed position. This prevents malfunction or misuse of the fiber optic connection device of the present invention caused by initiating a coupling or decoupling operation while the cover element is still in an intermediate position between the open and closed positions. When the control unit detects that the cover element is in or has reached the (fully) open or (fully) closed position via corresponding limit sensors, the control unit can or may be connected to a correspondingly configured warning device to generate an acknowledgment signal, such as an optical signal, a software command signal, or an acoustic signal. For example, a user operating the fiber optic connection device of the present invention can wait for an acknowledgment signal that the cover element is in the closed position before initiating the operation of disengaging the fiber optic connector from the device.

[0045] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be configured to interact with the control circuitry of the laser unit that generates laser light connected to the fiber optic connection device of the present invention, such that the laser unit is activated only when the control unit detects that the cover element is in the open position.

[0046] In some embodiments, the cover element may include a visual indicator, and the main coupling structure may be configured to allow optical contact between the exterior of the main coupling structure and the visual indicator. The visual indicator may be configured to visually indicate whether the cover element is in a closed or open position. For example, the visual indicator may be a movable mechanical element with components of different colors (e.g., black / white, green / red), the different colored components being visible through the main coupling structure depending on whether the cover element is in an open or closed position, particularly due to the different corresponding positions of the visual indicator. This allows for external control of the cover element's position without requiring any control unit and / or any dedicated electronics. The visual indicator may be specifically arranged in the axial portion of the cover element.

[0047] The fiber optic connection device can be configured such that when the driver element moves between a first position and a second position, the aforementioned magnetic portion of the driver element moves over the guide slit, particularly on the outer surface of the main connection structure, between the vertical projection of the first end of the guide slit and the vertical projection of the second end of the guide slit, thereby magnetically driving the magnetic portion of the cover element, which can be accommodated in the guide slit, so that the cover element is accordingly driven between a closed position and an open position.

[0048] According to some embodiments, the drive element can rotate between a first position and a second position, particularly about an axial channel. Therefore, the drive element can be a rotatable element, and the first and second positions can each correspond to different rotational positions of the drive element. The first and second positions can be rotational positions separated by a rotation angle, such as 180° or less, 90° or less, or 45° or less.

[0049] According to some embodiments, the cover element can pivot about a pivot point relative to the main structure between an open position and a closed position. The pivot point can be radially offset from the axial channel. In a section perpendicular to the axial direction, the pivot point can be separate from and not overlap with the axial channel. Preferably, the pivot point can be located at a first radial end of the radial portion of the cover element, while the axial portion of the cover element extends from a second radial end of the radial portion of the cover element, the second radial end being opposite to the first radial end, such that the radial portion of the cover element extends radially from the first radial end to the second radial end.

[0050] Therefore, when the cover element (particularly its radial portion) moves between the closed and open positions, it can pivot about the pivot point. The closed portion of the radial portion of the cover element can be arranged radially between the pivot point and the radial protrusion of the axial portion of the cover element, i.e., between the first and second radial ends of the radial portion of the cover element. Assuming that the pivot point is axially offset from the axial channel, when the radial portion of the cover element moves between the closed and open positions, for example due to the movement of the axial portion of the cover element along the aforementioned guide slit driven by the corresponding movement of the actuator element, the cover element can accordingly block or not block the cross section of the axial channel, particularly through the closed portion of the cover element.

[0051] According to some embodiments of the invention, the driver element may be arranged around the axial channel. Additionally or alternatively, the driver element may be annular. This configuration simplifies the operation of connecting fiber optic connectors to the fiber optic connection device of the invention, while operating the driver element to open and close the axial channel by simply rotating the driver element accordingly.

[0052] In some embodiments of the invention, the main coupling structure may include a first structural body and a second structural body removably attached to or capable of being removably attached to the first structural body. The first and second structural bodies may correspond to a first axial portion and a second axial portion of the main coupling structure, respectively. A drive element may be arranged or is capable of being arranged on the outer surface of the first structural body, and a cover element may be arranged or is capable of being arranged between the first and second structural bodies. A first axial end of an axial channel may be arranged at the first structural body, and a second axial channel may be arranged at the second structural body. A first portion of the axial channel may be arranged in the first structural body, and a second portion of the axial channel may be arranged in the second structural body. When the first and second structural bodies are connected to each other, an axial channel may be formed, and the cover element (particularly its radial portion) may be axially arranged or sandwiched between the first and second structural bodies. The aforementioned guide slit for receiving and guiding the movement of the axial portion of the cover element may be formed in the first structural body. By being formed by two removable or detachable structural bodies, the main coupling structure can advantageously allow access to its interior, for example for performing maintenance and replacement tasks, such as on the cover element. For example, the interior of the main connecting structure can be accessed to replace or clean the cover element, such as by clearing the recesses formed in the closed portion of the cover element to prevent potential particle contamination. The first and second structural bodies can be removably attached to each other by appropriate removable attachment devices (such as screws).

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fiber optic connection device may further include a cover element for closing the axial channel from the first axial end. The cover element may be removably attached to the first axial end of the axial channel and may be configured to isolate the interior of the axial channel, particularly the portion of the axial channel extending between the first axial end and the axial cover position, from the environment to prevent potentially contaminating particles from entering the interior of the axial channel, for example, during transport or storage or during periods when no fiber is connected to the fiber optic connection device of the invention.

[0054] In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the fiber optic connection device may further include a locking element for locking the fiber optic connector when it is coupled to the connection mechanism. The locking element may be configurable or adjustable in a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration. In the locking configuration, the locking element locks the fiber optic connector; in the unlocking configuration, the locking element unlocks the fiber optic connector. Therefore, the locking element can be configured in either a locking or unlocking configuration: when configured in the locking configuration, the locking element locks the fiber optic connector in place while the fiber optic connector is coupled to the connection mechanism, such that, for example, the fiber optic connector cannot be disassembled from the connection mechanism in an uncontrolled manner. In the unlocking configuration, the locking element unlocks or releases the fiber optic connector, allowing it to be freely disassembled from the connection mechanism, for example, for separation from the fiber optic connection device.

[0055] Therefore, the locking element can functionally cooperate with the coupling mechanism. The coupling mechanism can accommodate the fiber optic connector and thus define the position and orientation of the fiber optic connector after coupling, specifically aligning the beam exiting the fiber optic connector with the axial channel. The locking element can secure the fiber optic connector in place, i.e., in the position defined by the coupling mechanism.

[0056] In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism may include a locking element; that is, the coupling mechanism and the locking mechanism may be the same component configured to accommodate and lock / unlock the fiber optic connector. However, in other embodiments, the coupling mechanism and the locking element may be structurally independent of each other.

[0057] The driver element can be coupled to the locking element such that when the locking element is in the unlocked configuration, the driver element is in a first position, and when the locking element is in the locked configuration, the driver element is in a second position. Through this configuration, and taking into account the correspondence between the open and closed positions of the cover element and the first and second positions of the driver element, the locking element ensures that the fiber optic connector remains in the proper position when the cover element is in the open position, and ensures that coupling operations (e.g., connecting or uncoupling the fiber optic connector to the fiber optic coupling device of the present invention via a coupling mechanism) can only be performed when the cover element is in the closed position, thus ensuring contamination-free operation.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the driver element can be mechanically coupled to the locking element. The driver element may include a mechanical actuator that enables the mechanical coupling between the driver element and the locking element. The locking element may be, for example, a locking element known in the art for commercially available fiber optic connection devices, particularly fiber optic connection devices according to QBH, QD, or FCH-16 connection standards, and the locking element may be a corresponding movable component that locks or unlocks the fiber optic connector during coupling or decoupling operations. According to the invention, the driver element may be configured to be attached to an existing locking element, for example, by a direct mechanical connection, such that the locking element is adapted to operate according to the invention. For example, for existing locking elements having notches, recesses, etc., the driver element may be designed to have protrusions configured to fit into said notches or recesses to mechanically couple the driver element to the locking element, such that movement of the locking element directly causes a corresponding movement of the driver element.

[0059] In some preferred embodiments, the driver element may include a mechanical actuator for mechanically operating the driver element. Additionally or alternatively, the driver element may include a mechanical actuator for mechanically coupling the driver element to another movable component of the fiber optic coupling device, such as to a locking element. In some embodiments, the mechanical actuator may be configured to mechanically couple the driver element to a fiber optic connector such that when the fiber optic connector moves to couple to the coupling mechanism and / or is locked / unlocked by the locking element, the driver element moves accordingly between a first position and a second position via the mechanical actuator.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the locking element can rotate between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration. Rotation of the locking element then causes a corresponding rotation of the actuator element, which may also be a rotatable component, and rotation of the actuator element causes a corresponding movement of the cover element.

[0061] In some preferred embodiments, the locking element may include a bayonet mechanism, a threaded mechanism, and / or a snap-fit ​​mechanism for locking and unlocking the fiber optic connector.

[0062] According to some preferred embodiments, the fiber optic connection device may be a fiber optic collimator and may include a collimating lens for collimating laser light transmitted through the axial channel from the fiber optic connector. The collimating lens may preferably be arranged at the second axial end of the axial channel.

[0063] The fiber optic connection device of the present invention can be configured to be attached to another optical component, particularly to a laser module, as a laser inlet or port, such that laser light (particularly from an optical fiber) can be fed into said other optical component or laser module through the fiber optic connection device of the present invention. The fiber optic connection device may include suitable attachment means for removably attaching, for example, to such additional optical component or laser module by means of screws or the like.

[0064] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a laser module for laser processing of a workpiece, wherein the laser module includes at least one fiber optic connection device according to any embodiment of the foregoing invention, wherein at least one laser beam enters the laser module through the at least one fiber optic connection device. The laser module also includes at least one laser deflection system for deflecting the at least one laser beam to laser process the workpiece. In particular, the at least one laser deflection system may include movable mirrors, such as an XY mirror pair for deflecting the at least one laser beam, and fixed and / or movable lenses for focusing the at least one laser beam to laser process the workpiece. Attached Figure Description

[0065] Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of an optical fiber connection device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0066] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a driver element of an optical fiber connection device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 2 a shows a 3D diagram. Figure 2 b shows a top view, and Figure 2 c shows a side view.

[0067] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A schematic top cross-sectional view of the device at a first cross-sectional plane corresponding to the axial position of the drive element. Figure 3 a shows the driver element in the first position, and Figure 3 b shows the driver element in the second position.

[0068] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the cover element of an optical fiber connection device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 4 a shows a 3D diagram. Figure 4 b shows a side view, and Figure 4 c shows a top view.

[0069] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1A schematic top cross-sectional view of the device at a second section plane corresponding to the axial cover position, at which the cover element opens and closes the axial passage of the device. Figure 5 a shows the cover element in the open position, and Figure 5 b shows the cover element in the closed position.

[0070] Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional side view of an optical fiber connection device according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0071] Figure 7 A schematic perspective view of a fiber optic connection device that implements the QBH connection standard is shown. Figure 7 a shows a device without a cover mechanism, and Figure 7 b illustrates an apparatus including a cover mechanism according to the invention.

[0072] Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional side view of the laser module according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0073] To facilitate understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, and these embodiments will be described using specific language. However, it will be understood that the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited thereto, and such changes and further modifications in the illustrated apparatus, as well as such further applications of the principles of the invention shown herein, will be conceived by those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, and such changes and further modifications, as well as such further applications of the principles of the invention shown herein, are likely to occur now or in the future.

[0074] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional side view of an optical fiber connection device 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The device 10 includes a substantially cylindrical main connection structure 12 made of a metallic material such as aluminum. The main connection structure 12 includes an opening extending axially through the main connection structure 12, in... Figure 1 In the view shown, this axial direction coincides with the vertical direction z and corresponds to the rotationally symmetrical central axis of the substantially cylindrical main connecting structure 12. The opening forms an axial channel 14 that extends axially from the first axial end 14a through the main connecting structure 12 to the second axial end 14b.

[0075] At the second axial end 14b, i.e., at... Figure 1The main connection structure 12 shown is located at its lowest position in the z-direction. The main connection structure 12 includes a mounting flange 12p that projects radially outward and can be used to mount the device 10 to other optical devices, particularly laser modules, for example, using screws, etc. (see example...) Figure 8 When device 10 is mounted to another optical device (such as a laser module), optical device 10 can be used as an input port through which the laser can enter the other optical device, particularly through axial channel 14.

[0076] At the first axial end 14a, the device 10 includes a coupling mechanism 16 configured to receive an optical fiber connector, for example, by form-fitting. Figure 1 (Not shown in the diagram) so that a fiber optic connector can be coupled to device 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall of the axial channel 14 at the first axial end 14a forms a coupling mechanism 16. When a fiber optic connector of the appropriate size is coupled to the coupling mechanism 16, the fiber optic connector is aligned with the axial channel 14, allowing light from the fiber optic connector to be optically transmitted through device 10. In particular, such light can then be transmitted downstream through the axial channel 14 to another optical component (e.g., a laser module), to which device 10 can be connected.

[0077] The fiber optic connection device 10 also includes a cover mechanism 20, configured to open and close the axial channel 14. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the cover mechanism 20 includes a drive element 22 and a cover element 24, as... Figure 1 As shown, the driver element 22 is completely arranged on the outside of the main connection structure 12, as... Figure 1 As shown, the cover element 24 is completely arranged within the main connection structure 12. The cover element 24 is surrounded by the main connection structure 12, while the driver element 22 is arranged externally on the main connection structure 12.

[0078] The actuator element 22 and the cover element 24 are structurally independent of each other. The interior of the main connecting structure 12 housing the cover element 24 is substantially tightly isolated from the exterior of the main connecting structure 12 on which the actuator element 22 is mounted, because the cover element 24 is surrounded by the material of the main connecting structure 12. The actuator element 22 and the cover element 24 are axially (in...) Figure 1 The components (in the vertical direction z) are separated from each other by a separation portion of the main connection structure, which extends between the driver element 22 and the cover element 24 and has a thickness of about 1 mm or less.

[0079] Figure 2A schematic diagram of an exemplary actuator element 22 according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. The actuator element 22 is annular and configured to be arranged on the top surface of the main coupling structure 12, substantially perpendicular to the axial direction, surrounding the axial channel 14 and the coupling mechanism 16. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the driver element 22 is arranged around the axial channel 14 and the coupling mechanism 16 at the first axial end 14a, although it is not exactly coplanar with the first axial end 14a.

[0080] Back Figure 2 The annular actuator element 22 can be made of plastic or metal (e.g., aluminum). In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator element 22 includes a magnetic portion 22m comprising a ferromagnetic material embedded within and in contact with the bottom surface of the actuator element 22. The actuator element 22 also includes a mechanical actuator 29 that allows operation of the actuator element 22, for example, around a central axis of the actuator element 22 (i.e., around...). Figure 1 The drive element 22 is rotated in the axial direction z, for example, by manually and / or mechanically connecting the drive element 22 to other movable components of the device 10. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image). In Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the magnetic portion 22m and the mechanical actuator 29 are radially opposite each other such that the angular interval between them is approximately 180°. However, this angular interval is merely exemplary and may be different in other embodiments, such as 45°, 90°, or any other angular interval.

[0081] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 The schematic top sectional view of the device shown corresponds to section plane AA', which corresponds to the axial position of the drive element 22. The drive element 22, arranged around the axial channel 14 and the coupling mechanism 16, can... Figure 3 The first position shown in a and Figure 3 The movement occurs between the first and second positions shown in b. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second positions correspond to different rotational positions of the actuator 22 about the axial direction z. The difference between the two positions is... Figure 3 The arrow indicates the middle. In the illustrated embodiment, Figure 3 The first position shown in a and Figure 3 The difference between the second positions shown in b is a rotation angle θ of approximately 45°. However, in other embodiments, if the first and second positions are different rotational positions, the angle θ can be different angles, such as 90° or 180° (or any other angle suitable for the range of movement of the cover element 24). Figure 3 As illustrated, when the driver element is from Figure 3The first position of a is moved to Figure 3 In the second position of b, by rotating it by an angle θ, the magnetic part 22m rotates by an angle θ accordingly. In other embodiments, the first and second positions do not need to correspond to the rotational positions, and may simply be different positions of the driver element 22, such as different linear positions or different positions occupied by the driver element 22 on the outside of the main connection structure 12.

[0082] exist Figure 3 The top view also shows the mounting flange 12p of the main connection structure 12, which includes a plurality of openings 12i configured to accommodate a plurality of screws that can be used to attach the fiber optic connection device 10 to other optical devices, particularly to a laser module.

[0083] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the cover element 24 is shown. Figure 4 a shows Figure 4 3D image, Figure 4 b and Figure 4 c shows a side view and a top view, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover element 24, which may be made of plastic or metal, includes an axial portion 24a and a radial portion 24r. (As shown...) Figure 1 As shown, when the cover element 24 is installed inside the main connection structure 12 of the fiber optic connection device 10, the radial portion 24r is in the radial plane ( Figure 1 The radial plane extends in the x and y directions (in the middle), while the axial portion 24a extends in the axial direction (i.e., parallel to the axial channel 14), and the radial plane is perpendicular to the axial direction (in the middle). Figure 1 The direction (z) is perpendicular to the axial channel 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the axial portion 24a and the radial portion 24r are connected to each other in material and are substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0084] The axial portion 24a of the cover element 24 is at its uppermost part (e.g. Figure 4 (as shown in a) includes a magnetic portion 24m, which comprises a ferromagnetic material. Figure 1 As shown, when the cover element 24 is installed within the device 10, the magnetic portion 24m is positioned at the closest axial position to the driver element 22, separated from the driver element 22 only by the separation portion (approximately 1 mm thick) of the main coupling structure 12. Furthermore, as... Figure 1 As shown in the cross-sectional view, the actuator element 22 is configured such that the magnetic portion 22m of the actuator element 22 is arranged vertically to overlap with the magnetic portion 24m of the cover element 24, thereby generating a magnetic interaction between the cover element 24 and the actuator element 22.

[0085] like Figure 4As shown in different views, the radial portion 24r has a radial extension (i.e., in...) Figure 1 The radial portion 24r has a generally elongated shape (extending substantially in the x-direction in the cross-sectional view), the radial direction being perpendicular to the axial direction in which the axial portion 24a extends. The radial portion 24r includes a broadened portion forming a substantially circular shape, the broadened portion being configured to serve as a closing portion 26 of the cover element 24. The closing portion 26 has a diameter d, such as... Figure 4 As shown in c, it exceeds the diameter of the axial channel 14 of the main connecting structure 12. Therefore, the closing portion 26 is adapted to completely overlap with the cross section of the axial channel 14, so that the cover element 24 can completely close the axial channel through the closing portion 26.

[0086] Figure 5 Showing the plane corresponding to the cross section BB' Figure 1 Two schematic cross-sectional views of the device 10 are shown, with the cross-sectional plane BB' corresponding to the axially closed position. The cover element 24 can be... Figure 5 The opening position shown in a and Figure 5 Move between the closed positions shown in b. Figure 5 In the closed position shown in b, the cover element 24 closes the axial channel 14. Specifically, the cover element 24 is arranged such that the closed portion 26 completely overlaps with the cross-section of the axial channel 14. In... Figure 5 In the open position shown in Figure a, the axial channel 14 is fully exposed by the cover element 24. In particular, the closed portion 26 does not overlap with the cross-section of the axial channel 14.

[0087] The cover element 24 can pivot about pivot point 27 relative to the main connecting structure 12. For example... Figure 5 As shown, pivot point 27 is arranged radially away from axial channel 14. The cover element can be fixed to the main structure 12 at the pivot point by any fixing device (such as screws, bolts, etc.).

[0088] like Figure 5 As shown, the cover element 24 can move between an open position and a closed position by pivoting about a pivot point 27. For this purpose, a guide slit 18 for guiding the movement of the cover element 24 is formed internally in the main connecting structure 12 in the axial direction. Figure 1 In the axial cross-sectional plane corresponding to the xz plane shown, the guide slit 18 extends vertically in the axial direction z. The axial portion 24a of the cover element 24 is accommodated within the guide slit 18. In the cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the axial direction, for example in Figure 5 In the cross-sectional plane BB' shown, the guide slit 18 has a curved or arched profile around the pivot point 27, such that when moving along the curved profile of the guide slit 18, the axial portion 24a of the cover element 24 causes a corresponding movement of the radial portion 24 around the pivot point 27.

[0089] This movement of the axial portion 24a of the cover element 24 along the guide slit 18 can be driven by the drive element 22 through the magnetic connection between the magnetic portion 22m of the drive element 22 and the magnetic portion 24m of the cover element 24.

[0090] The driver element 22 and the cover element 24 are magnetically connected, such that when the driver element is in Figure 3 When in the first position shown in a, the cover element 24 is in Figure 5 The open position shown in a is such that when the driver element 22 is in the open position, and so that when the driver element 22 is in the open position, the driver element 22 is in the open position. Figure 3 In the second position shown in b, the cover element 24 is in Figure 5 The closed position is shown in b.

[0091] From the driver element Figure 3 Starting from the second position shown in Figure a, when the driver element 22 is rotated by an angle θ accordingly, causing the driver element 22 to move to... Figure 3 In the second position shown in b, the magnetic interaction between magnetic portions 22m and 24m magnetically drives the axial portion 24a through the separation portion of the main connecting structure 12, and the axial portion 24a then drives the axial portion 24a from one end 18b of the guide slit 18 (see...). Figure 5 a) Advance to the opposite end 18a of the guide slit 18, thereby causing the radial portion 24r of the cover element 24 to move from the open position (see...). Figure 5 a) Rotate to the closed position (see...) Figure 5 b).

[0092] The guide slit 18 can be formed into an inner cavity within the main connecting structure 12 to allow the axial portion 24a of the cover element 24 to move through this cavity. Figure 1 As shown, the main connecting structure may also include another cavity 17 formed in a radial plane, through which the radial portion 24r of the cover element 24 can move between an open position and a closed position.

[0093] exist Figure 5 The path of the guide slit 18 in the xy plane shown does not need to be connected to... Figure 3 The angular paths followed by the driver elements shown are equally corresponding. The design of the cover element 24 can be adjusted accordingly.

[0094] During the connection operation where the fiber optic connector is connected to the fiber optic connection device 10 by connecting it to the connection mechanism 16, the driver element 22 can remain in place. Figure 3 The second position shown in b allows the cover element to remain in place. Figure 5 The closed position is shown in b, and the axial channel 14 is closed by the radial portion 24r of the cover element 24, as shown in b. Figure 1As illustrated schematically. This prevents any contaminating particles (such as debris particles caused by mechanical erosion during coupling operations) from passing through the axial channel 14 and eventually reaching the second axial end 14b and any other optical components connected downstream of the device 10.

[0095] like Figure 5 As shown, the first limit sensor 19a and the second limit sensor 19b are respectively arranged at the first end 18a and the second end 18b of the guide slit 18 and connected to the control unit 65. When the cover element 18 reaches the open position ( Figure 5 a) or closed position ( Figure 5 b) When the axial portion 24a activates one of the corresponding limit sensors 19a and 19b, the control unit 65 detects that the cover element 24 has reached its final open or closed position.

[0096] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, in the closed portion 26, on the surface of the radial portion 24r of the cover element 24 facing the first axial end 14a and away from the second axial end 14b (i.e., on...) Figure 1 A recess 25 is formed (facing upwards in the schematic diagram). The recess 25 can be coated with an adhesive material such as silicone. Therefore, when the cover element 24 is in the closed position (see...), Figure 5 In case b), without the cover mechanism 20, any potentially contaminating particles passing through the axial channel 14 are collected in the recess 25 and will not reach the second axial end 14b. Therefore, debris particles are prevented from reaching any other optical devices that can be connected downstream of the device 10. Figure 4 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the recess 25 is a flat recess with a uniform depth relative to the upper and / or bottom surface of the radial portion 24r. However, in other embodiments, the recess may also have a non-uniform depth, such as a concave profile.

[0097] Once the coupling operation is complete, and the risk of contamination from environmental or mechanical erosion during the coupling operation itself is no longer high, the drive element 22 can be rotated to... Figure 3 The first position shown in diagram a opens the axial channel 14, allowing the cover element 24 to rotate to... Figure 5 As shown in Figure a, in the open position, the axial channel 14 is fully exposed by the cover element 24. The axial channel 14 is then unobstructed, allowing light to pass through for optical connection. This ensures contamination-free connection operation.

[0098] It is worth noting that the magnetic force between the drive element 22 and the cover element 24 applies a perpendicular force to the cover element 24, resulting in a tight seal of the axial channel 14 through the closing portion 26 of the cover element 24. Figure 1In the schematic cross-sectional view, the magnetic force points upward in the z-direction.

[0099] Figure 6 It shows the relationship with Figure 1 The view shown is a schematic cross-sectional view similar to the one shown, illustrating an optical fiber connection device 10 according to a relevant embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 Most of the features of the device 10 shown are the same as those described above for... Figure 1 The features described in detail in the embodiments shown are the same as or at least correspond to these features, and will not be described again for the sake of brevity. Such features are... Figure 6 The embodiments shown use Figure 1 The same reference numerals are used to indicate them. The above refers to... Figures 2 to 5 The exemplary description of the components shown also applies to Figure 6 The implementation shown is illustrated.

[0100] Figure 6 The implementation methods shown are the same as Figure 1 The difference in the implementation shown is that, Figure 6 The main connecting structure 12 of the illustrated embodiment includes a first structural body 12a and a second structural body 12b, which are removably attached to each other, for example by screws, and correspond to different axial portions of the main connecting structure 12. The first axial portion corresponds to the first structural body 12a, on which the drive element 22 is disposed, and the first structural body 12a includes a first axial portion of an axial channel 14 and a guide slit 18 for receiving an axial portion 24a of a cover element 24. A radial portion 24r is disposed at the interface between the first structural body 12a and the second structural body 12b, wherein a cavity 17 is formed between the first structural body 12a and the second structural body 12b for receiving the radial portion 24r and allowing the radial portion 24r to move between an open position and a closed position. Therefore, the interior of the main connecting structure 12 can be accessed, for example by disassembling the first structural body 12a and the second structural body 12b to replace or clean the cover element 24, thereby enabling access to the interior of the main connecting structure 12. The attachment between the first structural body 12a and the second structural body 12b preferably makes the interior of the main connecting structure 12 relatively tight compared to its exterior.

[0101] exist Figure 6 The embodiment also shows a cover element 40, which can be used to close the axial channel 14 at the first axial end 14a, for example, to protect the interior of the axial channel 14 during maintenance tasks, non-operation times, transportation or storage of the device 10.

[0102] Figure 6 The device 10 shown is Figure 1Another difference in the illustrated device 10 is that it includes a locking element 30 arranged around the axial channel 14 and the coupling mechanism 16, on the same outer side of the main coupling structure 12 on which the driver element 22 is arranged, between the axial channel 14 and the driver element 22. The locking element 30 is configured to lock the fiber optic connector when it is coupled to the coupling mechanism 16 of the device 10. Figure 6 (Not shown in the image).

[0103] The locking element 30 can be configured for both a locking and unlocking configuration. Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the locking element is rotatable between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration, and implements a bayonet mechanism for locking and unlocking the fiber optic connector 50. As the bayonet mechanism of the locking element 30 moves between the locking and unlocking configurations, the actuator element 22 is adapted to move between a first position and a second position. It is worth noting that in other embodiments, the locking element can implement other types of mechanisms, such as snap mechanisms or threaded mechanisms.

[0104] Furthermore, the locking element 30 is mechanically coupled to the driver element 22 via a mechanical actuator 22a. The locking element has a plurality of notches 30n, and the mechanical actuator 22a is configured to be fitted into one of the notches 30n. Due to the mechanical actuator 22a, the driver element 22 and the locking element 30 are configured such that when the locking element 30 is in the locked configuration where the locking element locks the fiber optic connector in place, the driver element is in… Figure 3 The first position shown in a makes the cover element 24 in the position of Figure 5 The open position is shown in Figure a. When the locking element 30 is in the unlocked configuration, the locking element 30 unlocks the fiber optic connector, and the fiber optic connector can then be freely attached to or detached from the coupling mechanism 16, while the driver element 22 is in the open position. Figure 3 The second position shown in b, and the cover element 24 is correspondingly in the position. Figure 5 The closed position is shown in b.

[0105] It is worth noting that the link or connector between the locking element 30 and the drive element 22 does not need to be a mechanical actuator 22a, but can be any functional link that realizes the relationship between the locking and unlocking configurations of the locking element 30 and the first and second positions of the drive element 22 according to the invention. In other related embodiments, the connection between the locking element 30 and the drive element 22 can be, for example, a magnetic connection.

[0106] Figure 7 An example of a fiber optic connection device 11 configured according to the QBH connection standard is shown, which is implemented by many devices available on the market. Figure 7a shows a conventional device 11 excluding any cover mechanism according to the invention. An optical fiber connector 50 is coupled to the main structure 12 of the device 11 and locked in place by a rotary locking element 30 via a corresponding bayonet mechanism.

[0107] Figure 7 b shows the same device, but after being adapted for operation according to the principles of the invention, by combining a cover element (the cover element in...) Figure 7 (Not visible in the external view of b) and driver element 22, the cover element is mounted between the first structural body 12a and the second structural body 12b, the driver element 22 is arranged externally on the first structural body 12a around the locking element 30 and around the axial channel 14 (not shown in the figure), and the laser from the fiber optic connector 50 is connected to the device 10 through the axial channel 14.

[0108] like Figure 7 As shown in b, the locking element 30 has a plurality of notches 30n. An actuator 22 is mechanically coupled to the locking element 30 via a mechanical actuator 22a, which is implemented as a vertical extension arm of the actuator 22 having a radially inwardly extending radial protrusion that fits into one of the notches 30n of the locking element 30. Due to the mechanical coupling achieved by the mechanical actuator 22a, the actuator 22 can follow the movement of the locking element 30, so that when the locking element 30 moves between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, the actuator 22 moves accordingly between a first position and a second position.

[0109] Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional side view of a laser module 60 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, which includes an optical fiber coupling device 10 attached to the housing 61 of the laser module 60 via a mounting flange 12p (e.g., using screws). In the laser module 60, the optical fiber coupling device 10 serves as a connection port or input port through which a laser beam 70 from an optical fiber 52 can be provided to the laser module 60. The optical fiber 52 is optically connected to the optical fiber coupling device 10 via an optical fiber connector 50 coupled to a coupling mechanism 16 of the optical fiber coupling device 10.

[0110] In addition to connecting the laser from the optical fiber 52 to the laser module 60, the fiber optic connector 10 also functions as a fiber collimator because it includes a collimating lens 69, which is arranged at the second axial end 14b of the axial channel 14 of the fiber optic connector 10 and configured to collimate the laser beam 70. Therefore, when the laser beam 70 enters the laser module 60, it is a collimated laser beam.

[0111] Within housing 61, laser module 60 includes a set of movable and fixed lenses 62 for pre-focusing laser beam 70, an x-mirror 64a movable to deflect laser beam 70 in the x-direction, and a y-mirror 64b movable to deflect laser beam 70 in the y-direction. Laser module 60 may also include suitable control electronics (not shown) for controlling the movement of optical lenses 62 and mirrors 64a, 64b.

[0112] After being focused and oriented by optical lens 62 and movable mirrors 64a, 64b, laser beam 70 exits the interior of laser module 60 through optical window 66. Optical window 66 may be, for example, a cover glass. Laser beam 70 then reaches workpiece 80 arranged on work area 82 and laser-processes workpiece 80, for example, during additive manufacturing processing of workpiece 80.

[0113] Although preferred exemplary embodiments have been shown and described in detail in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, these embodiments should be considered merely exemplary and not as limiting the invention. In this regard, it should be noted that only preferred exemplary embodiments have been shown and specified, and all variations and modifications that are present or will fall within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims should be protected.

Claims

1. An optical fiber connection device (10), comprising: The main connection structure (12) includes: An axial channel (14) extends from the first axial end (14a) through the main connecting structure (12) to the second axial end (14b). A coupling mechanism (16) for coupling an optical fiber connector (50) to the coupling mechanism (16), wherein the coupling mechanism (16) is axially arranged at the first axial end (14a) of the axial channel (14) and configured such that when the optical fiber connector (50) is coupled to the coupling mechanism (16), light from the optical fiber connector (50) can be transmitted through the axial channel (14); and Cover mechanism (20), for opening and closing the axial channel (14), includes: A driver element (22) is arranged at least partially on the outside of the main coupling structure (12), wherein the driver element (22) is movable between a first position and a second position; and A cover element (24) is arranged at least partially within the main connecting structure (12) and is movably attached to the main connecting structure (12), wherein the cover element (24) is movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the cover element (24) closes the axial channel (14) and in the open position the cover element (24) exposes the axial channel (14). The cover element (24) is magnetically connected to the driver element (22) such that when the driver element (22) moves to the first position, the cover element (24) moves to the open position under the magnetic drive of the driver element (22) as the driver element (22) moves, and when the driver element (22) moves to the second position, the cover element (24) moves to the closed position under the magnetic drive of the driver element (22) as the driver element (22) moves.

2. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The cover element (24) is structurally independent of the driver element (22).

3. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The driver element (22) is completely arranged on the outside of the main connection structure (12), and the cover element (24) is completely arranged inside the main connection structure (12).

4. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, A portion of the main connection structure (12) extends between the driver element (22) and the cover element (24).

5. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The interior of the main connection structure (12) in which the cover element (24) is arranged is fluidly isolated from the exterior of the main connection structure (12) on which the driver element (22) is arranged, such that there is no fluid communication between the exterior of the main connection structure and the interior of the main connection structure except through the axial channel.

6. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The cover element (24) includes an axial portion (24a) extending in an axial direction and a radial portion (24r) extending perpendicular to the axial direction, wherein the cover element (24) is magnetically connected to the driver element (22) through the axial portion (24a), and wherein the cover element (24) uses the radial portion to close or expose the axial channel (14).

7. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The cover element (24) is axially separated from the drive element (22) by 5 mm or less.

8. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The cover element (24) is axially separated from the drive element (22) by 1 mm or less.

9. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The axial portion (24a) of the cover element (24) is axially separated from the driver element (22) by 5 mm or less through the separation portion of the main connection structure (12).

10. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The cover element (24) includes a closing portion (26) configured to completely overlap the cross section of the axial channel (14) such that when the cover element (24) is in the closed position, the closing portion (26) completely covers the cross section of the axial channel (14).

11. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 10, wherein, A recess (25) is formed in the closed portion (26), wherein, when the cover element (24) is in the closed position, the recess (25) faces the interior of the axial channel (14) toward the first axial end (14a) and away from the second axial end (14b).

12. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The closed portion (26) includes adhesive material.

13. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The main connection structure (12) includes a guide slit (18) for guiding the movement of a portion of the cover element (24).

14. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 13, wherein, The guide slit (18) has a curved or arched profile around the pivot point of the cover element.

15. The fiber optic connection device of claim 1, further comprising one or more limit sensors (19a, 19b), said one or more limit sensors (19a, 19b) configured to detect when the cover element reaches or is in the closed position.

16. The fiber optic connection device of claim 1, further comprising one or more limit sensors (19a, 19b) configured to detect when the cover element arrives at or is in the open position.

17. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The driver element (22) is rotatable between the first position and the second position.

18. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The driver element (22) is rotatable about the axial channel (14).

19. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The cover element (24) is pivotable relative to the main connecting structure (12) about a pivot point between the open position and the closed position, wherein the pivot point is radially offset from the axial channel (14).

20. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The driver element (22) is arranged around the axial channel (14).

21. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1 or 15, wherein, The driver element (22) is ring-shaped.

22. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The main connection structure (12) includes a first structural body (12a) and a second structural body (12b), the second structural body (12b) being removably attached to or capable of being attached to the first structural body (12a), wherein the driver element (22) is arranged or capable of being arranged on the outer surface of the first structural body (12a), and wherein the cover element (24) is axially arranged or capable of being arranged between the first structural body (12a) and the second structural body (12b).

23. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The fiber optic connection device (10) further includes a cover element (40) for closing the axial channel (14) from the first axial end.

24. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The fiber optic connection device (10) further includes: A locking element (30) is provided for locking the fiber optic connector (50) when it is connected to the coupling mechanism (16), wherein the locking element (30) is configurable to a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration, wherein the locking element (30) locks the fiber optic connector (50) in the locking configuration and unlocks the fiber optic connector (50) in the unlocking configuration. The driver element (22) is coupled to the locking element (30) such that when the locking element (30) is in the unlocked configuration, the driver element (22) is in the first position, and when the locking element (30) is in the locked configuration, the driver element (22) is in the second position.

25. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 24, wherein, The driver element (22) is mechanically coupled to the locking element (30).

26. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 24 or 25, wherein, The locking element (30) is rotatable between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration.

27. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 24, wherein, The locking element (30) includes a bayonet mechanism, thread mechanism or snap-fit ​​mechanism for locking and unlocking the fiber optic connector (50).

28. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The driver element (22) includes mechanical actuators (22a, 29) for mechanically operating the driver element (22) or for mechanically coupling the driver element (22) to another movable component of the fiber optic connection device.

29. The optical fiber connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The fiber optic connection device (10) is a fiber optic collimator and includes a collimating lens (69) for collimating laser light transmitted from the fiber optic connector (50) through the axial channel (14).

30. A laser module (60) for laser processing of a workpiece (80), the laser module (60) comprising at least one fiber optic connection device (10) according to claim 1, wherein, At least one laser beam enters the laser module through the at least one optical fiber connection device (10). The laser module (60) further includes at least one laser deflection system (62, 64a, 64b) for deflecting the at least one laser beam (70) to laser process the workpiece (80).

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