Optical fiber protection device, laser system, and method for manufacturing an optical fiber protection device

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application provides a kind of optical fiber protection device, laser system and the manufacturing method of optical fiber protection device, the optical fiber protection device includes: optical fiber buckle, with accommodating cavity;Optical fiber, is arranged in optical fiber buckle, part structure of optical fiber is located in accommodating cavity, the part of optical fiber in accommodating cavity has thermal margin, optical fiber has first connection area and second connection area;Wherein, first connection area is located in the one end of accommodating cavity along the length direction of optical fiber, second connection area is located in the other end of accommodating cavity along the length direction of optical fiber, first connection area and second connection area are connected with optical fiber buckle.The optical fiber protection device can cope with the expansion difference of optical fiber buckle and optical fiber in high temperature environment by the thermal margin of the part of optical fiber in accommodating cavity, so that this difference will not cause excessive pulling to the part of optical fiber between first connection area and second connection area;To avoid that optical fiber is pulled apart by optical fiber buckle in high temperature environment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of laser technology, and in particular to a fiber optic protection device, a laser system, and a method for manufacturing the fiber optic protection device. Background Technology

[0002] The pump source is the core component of a laser system, used to provide external energy to the laser gain medium. In high-power laser pump sources, the output fiber is protected by a fiber optic clasp.

[0003] However, there is a significant difference in thermal expansion between the optical fiber and the fiber clasp, and the optical fiber used for pump source output also has weak tensile strength. During continuous high-temperature operation of the laser system, the optical fiber used for pump source output is easily stretched by the fiber clasp due to the difference in expansion between the fiber and the fiber, making it prone to breakage. It is difficult to balance long-term stability and reliability.

[0004] Therefore, how to prevent the output optical fiber of the pump source from being broken by the fiber buckle in a high-temperature environment has become a technical problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides an optical fiber protection device, a laser system, and a method for manufacturing the optical fiber protection device, which is used to prevent the output optical fiber of the pump source from being broken by the fiber optic buckle in a high-temperature environment.

[0006] On one hand, this application provides an optical fiber protection device, including: an optical fiber buckle having a receiving cavity; an optical fiber passing through the optical fiber buckle, a portion of the optical fiber structure being located in the receiving cavity, the portion of the optical fiber located in the receiving cavity having a thermal margin, and the optical fiber having a first connection region and a second connection region; wherein, the first connection region is located at one end of the receiving cavity along the length direction of the optical fiber, and the second connection region is located at the other end of the receiving cavity along the length direction of the optical fiber, and both the first connection region and the second connection region are connected to the optical fiber buckle; at a first set temperature, the portion of the optical fiber located in the receiving cavity forms an arc-shaped structure; the distance between the apex of the arc-shaped structure and a reference line is q, and the reference line is the line connecting the ends of the first connection region and the second connection region facing each other; q satisfies: ;in, L=α×L× T; L is the distance between the first connection area and the second connection area; α is the difference between the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber optic buckle and the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber. T is the difference between the rated temperature and the first set temperature.

[0007] In some implementations, the first connection region is fixedly connected to the fiber optic buckle, and the second connection region is flexibly connected to the fiber optic buckle.

[0008] In some embodiments, the end region of the optical fiber constitutes the first connection region, and the optical fiber protection device further includes: an end cap, fixedly connected to the first connection region; a transition ring, sleeved on the outer periphery of the end cap and fixedly connected to the end cap, the transition ring being fixedly connected to the optical fiber buckle, and the optical fiber passing through the transition ring into the optical fiber buckle.

[0009] In some embodiments, a flexible thermally conductive connector is provided between the second connection area and the optical fiber buckle, and the flexible thermally conductive connector is connected to the second connection area and the optical fiber buckle respectively; the second connection area and the optical fiber buckle are flexibly connected through the flexible thermally conductive connector.

[0010] In some embodiments, the flexible thermally conductive connector is bonded to the second connection region and the optical fiber fastener, respectively.

[0011] In some embodiments, the fiber optic buckle includes: a base having a first receiving cavity; a cover having a second receiving cavity, the cover being detachably connected to the base; the first receiving cavity and the second receiving cavity enclosing the receiving cavity.

[0012] In some embodiments, the base has an optical fiber groove that connects the interior and exterior of the first receiving cavity along the length of the optical fiber; the optical fiber groove has an opening facing one side of the optical fiber along its own length; and the second connection area is located in the optical fiber groove and connected to the optical fiber groove.

[0013] In some embodiments, the base includes: a base body, the first receiving cavity being formed in the base body, a portion of the optical fiber groove being formed in the base body; a first protrusion being disposed in the base body and protruding from the base body along the length direction of the optical fiber, another portion of the optical fiber groove being formed in the first protrusion; the optical fiber protection device further includes a sleeve, the sleeve being fitted onto the first protrusion and closing the groove opening.

[0014] In some embodiments, the base is provided with a first connecting hole; the cover is provided with a second connecting hole; the cover and the base are connected by fasteners passing through the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole.

[0015] In some embodiments, the fiber optic buckle is made of a thermally conductive material; the fiber optic buckle has a connector adapted to connect to a pump source; the connector has a connection surface adapted to make thermal contact with the pump source.

[0016] On the other hand, embodiments of this application provide a laser system, including: a pump source; and the aforementioned fiber optic protection device, wherein the fiber optic buckle is connected to the housing of the pump source.

[0017] In another aspect, embodiments of this application provide a method for manufacturing an optical fiber protection device, used to manufacture the aforementioned optical fiber protection device; the manufacturing method includes the following steps: threading the optical fiber through the optical fiber buckle and connecting the first connection region to the optical fiber buckle; bending the portion of the optical fiber located in the receiving cavity to form the thermal margin; connecting the second connection region to the optical fiber buckle to retain the thermal margin in the receiving cavity; bending the portion of the optical fiber located in the receiving cavity includes: bending the portion of the optical fiber located in the receiving cavity into an arc-shaped structure at a first set temperature; the distance between the apex of the arc-shaped structure and a reference line is q, the reference line being the line connecting the ends of the first connection region and the second connection region facing each other; q satisfies: ;in, L=α×L× T; L is the distance between the first connection area and the second connection area; α is the difference between the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber optic buckle and the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber. T is the difference between the rated temperature and the first set temperature.

[0018] In some embodiments, connecting the first connection region to the fiber optic buckle includes: fusing the first connection region to an end cap; applying a coating to the fused fiber optic cable and the end cap; and fixing the end cap to the fiber optic buckle to connect the first connection region to the fiber optic buckle.

[0019] This application provides an optical fiber protection device, a laser system, and a method for manufacturing the optical fiber protection device. By utilizing the thermal margin of the portion of the optical fiber located within the receiving cavity, it can cope with the expansion difference between the optical fiber clip and the optical fiber under high-temperature conditions. This difference causes only the relative displacement of the first and second connection regions, without causing excessive stretching of the portion of the optical fiber located between the first and second connection regions; thus preventing the optical fiber from being broken by the optical fiber clip under high-temperature conditions. Simultaneously, the optical fiber clip constrains the first and second connection regions of the optical fiber through corresponding connections. Combined with the design of the portion of the optical fiber located between the first and second connection regions within the receiving cavity, this allows the portion of the optical fiber located between the first and second connection regions to be in a relatively free state. Thus, during temperature changes, the orientation of this portion of the optical fiber can change relatively freely, helping to disperse stress in this portion and preventing damage due to stress concentration. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the optical fiber protection device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0022] Figure 2 This is another schematic diagram of the explosion structure of the optical fiber protection device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0023] Figure 3 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the optical fiber protection device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the seat provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cover provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0026] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the bending dimensions of the optical fiber provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a laser system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing an optical fiber protection device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0029] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 10-Pump source; 20-Reference line; 100-Fiber optic buckle; 110-Receiving cavity; 111-First receiving cavity; 112-Second receiving cavity; 120-Seat body; 121-Fiber optic groove; 1211-Groove opening; 122-Seat body; 123-First protrusion; 124-First connecting hole; 130-Cover body; 131-Second connecting hole; 140-Connecting part; 141-Connecting surface; 200-Fiber optic cable; 201-First connecting area; 202-Second connecting area; 300-End cap; 400-Transition ring; 500-Flexible thermally conductive connector; 600-Sleeve.

[0030] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concepts of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0032] The pump source is the core component of a laser system, used to provide external energy to the laser gain medium. In high-power laser pump sources, the output fiber is protected by a fiber optic clasp.

[0033] However, there is a significant difference in thermal expansion between the optical fiber and the fiber clasp, and the optical fiber used for pump source output also has weak tensile strength. During continuous high-temperature operation of the laser system, the optical fiber used for pump source output is easily stretched by the fiber clasp due to the difference in expansion between the fiber and the fiber, making it prone to breakage. It is difficult to balance long-term stability and reliability.

[0034] For example, some optical fibers used in pump source outputs are often coated to improve their heat resistance. While this coating can improve heat resistance, it can also increase the brittleness of the fiber, making it more prone to breakage under tension.

[0035] For example, some optical fibers used for pump source output have end caps welded to their ends. These end caps are used to improve the output performance of the pump source. The welded area formed by the end cap and the optical fiber is brittle, and the optical fiber is prone to breakage when subjected to significant tension.

[0036] For example, to withstand high power, some optical fibers used for pump source outputs are commonly made of fluoride or rare-earth-doped fibers (such as ytterbium-doped fibers). Their thermal stability and mechanical strength are far inferior to ordinary silica optical fibers, and their tensile strength is weaker.

[0037] Therefore, how to prevent the output optical fiber of the pump source from being broken by the fiber buckle in a high-temperature environment has become a technical problem that needs to be solved.

[0038] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide an optical fiber protection device, a laser system, and a method for manufacturing the optical fiber protection device, for preventing the output optical fiber of the pump source from being broken by the optical fiber clip under high temperature conditions.

[0039] This application provides an optical fiber protection device, a laser system, and a method for manufacturing the optical fiber protection device. By utilizing the thermal margin of the portion of the optical fiber located within the receiving cavity, it can cope with the expansion difference between the optical fiber clip and the optical fiber under high-temperature conditions. This difference causes only the relative displacement of the first and second connection regions, without causing excessive stretching of the portion of the optical fiber located between the first and second connection regions; thus preventing the optical fiber from being broken by the optical fiber clip under high-temperature conditions. Simultaneously, the optical fiber clip constrains the first and second connection regions of the optical fiber through corresponding connections. Combined with the design of the portion of the optical fiber located between the first and second connection regions within the receiving cavity, this allows the portion of the optical fiber located between the first and second connection regions to be in a relatively free state. Thus, during temperature changes, the orientation of this portion of the optical fiber can change relatively freely, helping to disperse stress in this portion and preventing damage due to stress concentration.

[0040] Reference Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the optical fiber protection device provided in this application embodiment may include an optical fiber buckle 100 and an optical fiber 200.

[0041] The fiber optic buckle 100 has a receiving cavity 110. For example, the fiber optic buckle 100 can be made of metals such as copper, copper alloy, aluminum alloy or stainless steel; or, the fiber optic buckle 100 can be made of ceramic materials such as alumina ceramic, aluminum nitride ceramic or zirconium oxide ceramic; or, the fiber optic buckle 100 can be made of composite materials such as metal matrix composites, ceramic matrix composites or thermally conductive polymer composites.

[0042] Optical fiber 200 is inserted into optical fiber buckle 100, and a portion of the structure of optical fiber 200 is located in receiving cavity 110. The portion of optical fiber 200 located in receiving cavity 110 has thermal margin. Optical fiber 200 has a first connection region 201 and a second connection region 202.

[0043] It should be noted that thermal margin refers to the extra length reserved for optical fiber 200 to cope with changes in the length or stress of optical fiber 200 caused by temperature changes.

[0044] For example, the optical fiber 200 may be bent between the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202 to form the aforementioned thermal margin.

[0045] The first connection region 201 is located at one end of the receiving cavity 110 along the length of the optical fiber 200, and the second connection region 202 is located at the other end of the receiving cavity 110 along the length of the optical fiber 200. Both the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202 are connected to the optical fiber buckle 100.

[0046] For example, the first connection area 201 and the fiber optic buckle 100 can be fixedly connected; or, the first connection area 201 and the fiber optic buckle 100 can be flexibly connected. The second connection area 202 and the fiber optic buckle 100 can be fixedly connected; or, the second connection area 202 and the fiber optic buckle 100 can be flexibly connected.

[0047] For example, the fixed connection between the corresponding position of the optical fiber 200 and the optical fiber buckle 100 can be achieved by the following method: the optical fiber 200 is fitted through a sleeve or collar with a supporting function (e.g., made of ceramic material), and the optical fiber 200 is fixed relative to the sleeve or collar (e.g., the two are fixed by adhesive or other means; or, the optical fiber 200 is connected to an intermediate component by adhesive or welding, which is fixed to the sleeve or collar by interference fit or adhesive or other means); the sleeve and collar are fixed to the holes on the optical fiber buckle 100 by interference fit or adhesive or other means.

[0048] For example, the fixed connection between the corresponding position of the optical fiber 200 and the optical fiber buckle 100 can also be achieved by fixing the corresponding position of the optical fiber 200 with epoxy resin, sleeve, or potting.

[0049] For example, the flexible connection between the corresponding position of the optical fiber 200 and the optical fiber buckle 100 can be made by silicone rubber, polyimide elastomer, or flexible thermally conductive material. The silicone rubber, polyimide elastomer, or flexible thermally conductive material can form a structure surrounding the optical fiber 200; the silicone rubber, polyimide elastomer, or flexible thermally conductive material is connected to the optical fiber 200 and the optical fiber buckle 100 respectively.

[0050] For example, the portion of the fiber optic clip 100 used to connect the first connection region 201 or the second connection region 202 can be a structure such as a hole or a slot. A hole facilitates radial positioning of the fiber optic cable 200; a slot facilitates radial placement of the fiber optic cable 200 within the slot.

[0051] The fiber optic protection device provided in this application embodiment, through the thermal margin of the portion of the fiber optic 200 located in the receiving cavity 110, can cope with the expansion difference between the fiber optic buckle 100 and the fiber optic 200 under high-temperature conditions. This difference only causes relative displacement of the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202, without causing excessive pulling on the portion of the fiber optic 200 located between the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202; thus preventing the fiber optic cable from being broken by the fiber optic buckle under high-temperature conditions. Simultaneously, the fiber optic buckle 100 constrains the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202 of the fiber optic 200 through corresponding connections. Combined with the design of the portion of the fiber optic 200 located between the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202 in the receiving cavity 110, this portion of the fiber optic 200 is in a relatively free state. Thus, during temperature changes, the orientation of this portion of the fiber optic 200 can change relatively freely, helping to disperse the stress in this portion and preventing damage due to stress concentration.

[0052] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, at a first set temperature, the portion of the optical fiber 200 located in the receiving cavity 110 forms an arc-shaped structure. The distance between the apex of the arc-shaped structure and the reference line 20 is q (in μm), and the reference line 20 is the line connecting the ends of the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202 facing each other.

[0053] q satisfies: .

[0054] in, L=α×L× T; L is the distance between the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202 (in μm, micrometer); α is the difference between the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber buckle 100 and the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber 200; T is the difference between the rated temperature and the first set temperature (in °C, degrees Celsius).

[0055] It should be noted that, under rated temperature, at least fiber 200 will not be broken by fiber 100.

[0056] For example, the first set temperature can be the standard temperature required for producing the pump source or laser system. For instance, in the semiconductor and precision optics industry (refer to the ISO 14644 cleanroom standard), the first set temperature can be 23°C ± 2°C.

[0057] Thus, the arc height q maintained between the arc apex of the arc structure and the reference line 20 provides a releasable geometric margin for the optical fiber 200. This allows the optical fiber 200 to expand in an arc shape as the temperature rises to accommodate the difference in elongation between the optical fiber 200 and the optical fiber buckle 100, preventing the optical fiber 200 from being pulled apart.

[0058] Furthermore, the portion of the optical fiber 200 located within the housing cavity 110 can freely deform through its arc-shaped geometry. This significantly reduces axial tensile stress and local contact stress under thermal cycling conditions, minimizing the risk of deformation instability, contact deterioration, localized temperature rise, and cracking / fracture of the optical fiber 200 under repeated high-temperature exposure. It also helps maintain the stability of laser transmission and the long-term reliability of the device. This arc-shaped structure creates a predictable and releasable buffer zone during thermal environmental changes, thereby achieving flexible protection and thermal stress suppression of the optical fiber 200 within the housing cavity 110.

[0059] For example, the arc-shaped structure can be circular or parabolic. When the arc-shaped structure is circular, it is easier to process and control the arc height; when the arc-shaped structure is parabolic, the deformation near the apex of the arc can be smoother.

[0060] Reference Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the first connection region 201 is fixedly connected to the fiber optic buckle 100, and the second connection region 202 is flexibly connected to the fiber optic buckle 100.

[0061] Thus, by fixing the first connection region 201, the fiber optic buckle 100 can stabilize the orientation of the first connection region 201 portion of the optical fiber 200 relative to the fiber optic buckle 100. This facilitates fixing the orientation of the first connection region 201 through the fiber optic buckle 100, which helps improve the coupling accuracy of the optical path when this fiber protection device is applied to a pump source. Furthermore, by flexibly connecting the second connection region 202 to the fiber optic buckle 100, an additional buffer (based on thermal margin) is constructed between the optical fiber 200 and the fiber optic buckle 100 at the second connection region 202. This additional buffer can cope with further differential deformation between the fiber optic buckle 100 and the optical fiber 200 by the displacement of the second connection region 202 and the fiber optic buckle 100 when the thermal margin is exhausted (the distance between the opposite ends of the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202 is equal to the length of the optical fiber 200 located between the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202). This prevents the optical fiber 200 from being pulled apart due to such differences.

[0062] The aforementioned additional buffer helps to further increase the rated temperature of the fiber optic protection device; and also helps to reduce the size requirements of the housing 110 along the length of the fiber optic 200, thus helping to improve the compactness of the fiber optic buckle 100 along this direction.

[0063] Reference Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the end region of the optical fiber 200 constitutes a first connection region 201. The optical fiber protection device also includes an end cap 300 and a transition ring 400.

[0064] The end cap 300 is fixedly connected to the first connection region 201. For example, the end cap 300 may be designed to handle high power density lasers, prevent damage to the end face of the fiber 200, and control the characteristics of the output beam.

[0065] For example, the end cap 300 can be made of fused silica. It is understood that after the fused silica solidifies, it forms a relatively fixed connection with the optical fiber 200. For example, the end cap 300 can also be made of crystals such as sapphire or yttrium aluminum garnet.

[0066] For example, the end cap 300 and the first connection area 201 can also be connected by welding or fusion.

[0067] The transition ring 400 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the end cap 300 and is fixedly connected to the end cap 300. The transition ring 400 is fixedly connected to the fiber optic buckle 100 and the fiber optic cable 200 passes through the transition ring 400 and is inserted into the fiber optic buckle 100.

[0068] For example, the transition ring 400 and the end cap 300 can be interference-fitted.

[0069] For example, the transition ring 400 can be made of ceramic.

[0070] For example, the coefficient of thermal expansion of the material used to make the transition ring 400 is 5 × 10⁻⁶. -6 / ℃-12×10 -6 / ℃. For example, the coefficient of thermal expansion is 5×10. -6 / ℃ indicates that the material elongates by 5μm for every 1℃ increase in temperature; the coefficient of thermal expansion is 6×10⁻⁶. -6 / ℃ indicates that the material elongates by 6μm for every 1℃ increase in temperature; the coefficient of thermal expansion is 12×10⁻⁶. -6 / ℃ indicates that the material elongates by 12μm when the temperature increases by 1℃.

[0071] In this embodiment, the design of the receiving cavity 110 of the fiber optic buckle 100, combined with the thermal margin design of the fiber optic 200, the fixing design of the fiber optic buckle 100 to the first connection area 201, and the flexible connection design to the second connection area 202, can protect the connection part formed by the end cap 300 and the first connection area 201 in high-temperature scenarios. This prevents the connection part of the end cap 300 and the fiber optic 200 from being deformed or even broken due to the thermal expansion difference between the fiber optic buckle 100 and the fiber optic 200, which helps to improve the stability of laser transmission and coupling in high-temperature environments.

[0072] Reference Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, a flexible thermally conductive connector 500 is provided between the second connection region 202 and the fiber optic buckle 100, and the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 is connected to both the second connection region 202 and the fiber optic buckle 100. It should be noted that the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 has good thermal conductivity; under external force, the flexible connector can either undergo elastic deformation or allow relative displacement between different parts, so that the second connection region 202, equivalent to the fiber optic buckle 100, has the ability to undergo relative displacement.

[0073] The second connection area 202 is flexibly connected to the fiber optic buckle 100 through a flexible thermally conductive connector 500.

[0074] For example, the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 can be connected to the fiber optic buckle 100 by adhesive (e.g., the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 may have adhesive properties itself, or it may be connected by other adhesives besides the flexible thermally conductive connector 500); the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 can be connected to the second connection region 202 by adhesive (e.g., the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 may have adhesive properties itself, or it may be connected by other adhesives besides the flexible thermally conductive connector 500).

[0075] For example, the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 may have a hole for passing through the second connection region 202, and the second connection region 202 is interference-fitted with the hole or the second connection region 202 is connected to the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 by means of friction between the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 and the hole wall.

[0076] For example, the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 can also be connected to the corresponding position of the optical fiber buckle 100 by means of vulcanization or other methods.

[0077] For example, the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 can be made of a highly thermally conductive flexible adhesive. It should be noted that a highly thermally conductive flexible adhesive refers to a type of adhesive that combines flexibility, adhesiveness, and high thermal conductivity.

[0078] In this embodiment, the second connection region 202 is connected to the optical fiber buckle 100 via a flexible thermally conductive connector 500. When the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 acts as the additional buffer mentioned above, the displacement at the second connection region 202 is released through compression, shearing, or local bending within the flexible thermally conductive connector 500. The flexible thermally conductive connector 500 transfers the heat carried by the second connection region 202 to the optical fiber buckle 100, and also provides a buffer space for the corresponding area of ​​the optical fiber 200, preventing thermal expansion differences from directly concentrating at the fixed interface.

[0079] In this way, the rigid contact between the second connection area 202 and the fiber buckle 100, which may have previously generated a large constraint force, is transformed into a flexible connection with heat conduction capability. This can reduce the peak end stress under heated conditions while maintaining the stability of the fiber 200 position and the continuity of heat dissipation. It also reduces the risk of local deformation, contact deterioration and thermal fatigue damage of the fiber 200, thereby improving the reliability and service life of the fiber protection device in continuous high-temperature working environments.

[0080] Reference Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 is bonded to both the second connection region 202 and the fiber optic clip 100. This adhesive bonding helps increase the contact area between the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 and the optical fiber 200, thus helping to disperse the force exerted by the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 on the optical fiber 200 and further enhancing the protection of the optical fiber 200. Simultaneously, the adhesive bonding also increases the contact area between the optical fiber clip 100 and the flexible thermally conductive connector 500, establishing a connection that prevents detachment and helps maintain thermal margin within the receiving cavity 110.

[0081] For example, the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 can be made of a flexible thermally conductive adhesive; in other words, the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 has adhesive properties. Alternatively, in some possible embodiments, the flexible thermally conductive connector 500 can be bonded using other adhesives.

[0082] Reference Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the fiber optic buckle 100 includes a base 120 and a cover 130. The base 120 has a first receiving cavity 111. The cover 130 has a second receiving cavity 112, and the cover 130 is detachably connected to the base 120; the first receiving cavity 111 and the second receiving cavity 112 enclose a receiving cavity 110. Thus, the receiving cavity 110 is configured to be openable through the detachable connection between the cover 130 and the base 120; this facilitates setting or adjusting the orientation of the portion of the fiber optic cable 200 within the receiving cavity 110 while the receiving cavity 110 is open during the manufacturing process of the fiber optic protection device, making it easier to accurately set the thermal margin. Furthermore, during the commissioning phase of the fiber optic protection device, the interior of the receiving cavity 110 can be inspected by disassembling the cover 130 to facilitate verification of any damage or malfunction of the fiber optic protection device.

[0083] For example, the base 120 and the cover 130 can be connected by a snap-fit ​​structure; or the base 120 and the cover 130 can be connected by fasteners such as bolts or screws.

[0084] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments, the base 120 has an optical fiber slot 121. The optical fiber slot 121 connects the interior and exterior of the first receiving cavity 111 along the length direction of the optical fiber 200. It should be noted that this connection is used to allow the optical fiber 200 to pass between the receiving cavity 110 and the exterior of the optical fiber buckle 100. The optical fiber slot 121 has a notch 1211 facing the side of the optical fiber 200 along its own length direction. A second connection region 202 is located in the optical fiber slot 121 and connected to the optical fiber slot 121.

[0085] Thus, the design of the fiber optic slot 121 facilitates the threading of the fiber optic cable 200 through the fiber optic buckle 100. The second connection area 202 of the fiber optic cable 200 and the area adjacent to the second connection area 202 can be placed radially in the fiber optic slot 121 for threading this part of the fiber optic cable 200. On the other hand, when connecting the second connection area 202 to the fiber optic buckle 100, the design of the fiber optic slot 121, compared to the hole design, helps to improve the flexibility of selecting the connection position of the second connection area 202 relative to the fiber optic buckle 100, reducing the difficulty of connecting the second connection area 202 and the fiber optic buckle 100 while precisely controlling the thermal margin.

[0086] For example, when the second connection area 202 and the fiber optic buckle 100 are connected by a high thermal conductivity adhesive, the design of the fiber optic slot 121 facilitates the dispensing process.

[0087] Reference Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the base 120 includes a base body 122 and a first protrusion 123. A first receiving cavity 111 is formed in the base body 122, and a portion of the fiber optic groove 121 is formed in the base body 122. The first protrusion 123 is disposed in the base body 122, protruding from the base body 122 along the length direction of the fiber optic cable 200, and another portion of the fiber optic groove 121 is formed in the first protrusion 123. The fiber optic protection device also includes a sleeve 600, which is sleeved on the first protrusion 123 and closes the groove 1211.

[0088] Thus, the first protrusion 123 helps to extend the fiber optic slot 121, thereby increasing the length for supporting and guiding the fiber optic cable 200. Furthermore, the sealing effect of the sleeve 600 on the slot opening 1211 prevents bending of the portion of the fiber optic cable 200 outside the fiber optic buckle 100, thus avoiding damage to the more brittle parts of the fiber optic cable 200 and further improving the high-temperature resistance and service life of the fiber optic protection device.

[0089] For example, the seat body 122 and the first protrusion 123 can be an integral structure; or, in some possible embodiments, the seat body 122 and the first protrusion 123 can be connected by a non-removable method such as welding or riveting. Alternatively, in some possible embodiments, the seat body 122 and the first protrusion 123 can be connected by a detachable method such as bolts or screws.

[0090] For example, in the cross-section of the first protrusion 123 (perpendicular to its protrusion direction), the first protrusion 123 is circular or square, etc.

[0091] For example, the sleeve 600 can be a heat shrink tubing. When the sleeve 600 is a heat shrink tubing, the sleeve 600 is interference-fitted with the first protrusion 123. Alternatively, the sleeve 600 can be connected to the first protrusion 123 by means of adhesive or threaded connection.

[0092] Reference Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the base 120 is provided with a first connecting hole 124. The cover 130 is provided with a second connecting hole 131; the cover 130 and the base 120 are connected by fasteners passing through the first connecting hole 124 and the second connecting hole 131.

[0093] Thus, the cooperation of the fasteners, the first connecting hole 124, and the second connecting hole 131 helps to improve the accuracy of the relative position of the base 120 and the cover 130, and helps to improve the laser transmission accuracy of the fiber optic protection device. Furthermore, it also helps to improve the firmness of the connection between the base 120 and the cover 130.

[0094] For example, the fastener can be a bolt or a screw.

[0095] For example, the first connecting hole 124 can be a threaded hole that mates with a bolt or screw, and the second connecting hole 131 can be a smooth hole for passing a bolt or screw through. After the bolt or screw is tightened, the cover 130 is secured to the base 120 through the head of the bolt or screw.

[0096] Reference Figures 1 to 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the fiber optic buckle 100 is made of a thermally conductive material. Exemplary examples include copper, aluminum alloy, copper alloy, stainless steel, or ceramics with thermal conductivity. The fiber optic buckle 100 has a connecting portion 140 adapted to connect to a pump source 10; the connecting portion 140 has a connecting surface 141 adapted to make thermally conductive contact with the pump source 10.

[0097] Among them, the thermal conductivity of copper can reach 380 W / m•K, or even higher.

[0098] In this way, when in use, the fiber optic protection device can conduct heat to the pump source 10 by making thermally conductive contact between the connection surface 141 and the pump source 10, so that heat can be dissipated by the heat dissipation system of the pump source 10, and timely heat dissipation can be achieved, thus preventing the fiber optic protection device from overheating. This helps to further improve the reliability of the fiber optic protection device and the stability of laser transmission under high-power conditions.

[0099] For example, the connecting part 140 may have holes for bolts or screws to facilitate the connection of the connecting part 140 to the pump source 10 by bolts or screws.

[0100] For example, the connecting surface 141 can be a plane; or, in some possible embodiments, the connecting surface 141 can be a stepped surface or a curved surface, etc.

[0101] Reference Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the laser system provided in this application embodiment includes a pump source 10 and an optical fiber protection device provided in this application embodiment, wherein the optical fiber buckle 100 is connected to the housing of the pump source 10.

[0102] By incorporating the fiber protection device provided in this embodiment, the laser system can prevent the fiber 200 at the output end of the pump source 10 from breaking under high-power or high-temperature operating conditions. This helps to increase the rated power of the laser system and also helps to improve the lifespan and operational stability of the laser system.

[0103] For example, the laser system may also have a heat dissipation system for cooling the pump source 10. The fiber optic protection device can utilize the heat dissipation function of the pump source 10 to cool the fiber optic protection device through the thermally conductive contact between the fiber optic clip 100 and the pump source 10.

[0104] Reference Figures 1 to 8 As shown, the manufacturing method of the optical fiber protection device provided in this application embodiment is used to manufacture the optical fiber protection device provided in this application embodiment; the manufacturing method includes the following steps S100, S200 and S300.

[0105] In step S100, the optical fiber 200 is threaded through the optical fiber buckle 100, and the first connection region 201 is connected to the optical fiber buckle 100. Thus, the optical fiber buckle 100 can initially constrain and position the direction of the optical fiber 200, facilitating subsequent setting of thermal margin. For example, the first connection region 201 can be directly connected to the optical fiber buckle 100; or, the first connection region 201 can be connected to the optical fiber buckle 100 through an intermediate component or assembly. For example, the first connection region 201 and the optical fiber buckle 100 can be relatively fixedly connected; or, in some possible embodiments, the first connection region 201 and the optical fiber buckle 100 can be connected flexibly.

[0106] S200: The portion of the optical fiber 200 located in the receiving cavity 110 is bent to create a thermal margin. For example, a rod or pressing device capable of penetrating the receiving cavity 110 and pressing the optical fiber 200 can be used to press a localized area of ​​the optical fiber 200, thereby bending the portion of the optical fiber 200 located in the receiving cavity 110. Alternatively, an auxiliary device detachably connected to the optical fiber clip 100 can be used to bend the portion of the optical fiber 200 located in the receiving cavity 110. This auxiliary device has a pressing portion for penetrating the receiving cavity 110, which presses to bend the portion of the optical fiber 200 located in the receiving cavity 110; and the bending state of the corresponding area of ​​the optical fiber can be maintained by means of this pressing portion before the second connection region 202 is connected to the optical fiber clip 100.

[0107] S300, the second connection region 202 is connected to the fiber optic buckle 100 to retain thermal margin within the receiving cavity 110. For example, the second connection region 202 and the fiber optic buckle 100 can be connected in a relatively fixed manner; the second connection region 202 and the fiber optic buckle 100 can be connected in a flexible manner.

[0108] The manufacturing method of this optical fiber protection device involves a sequential assembly process: first, establishing positioning at one end; then, pre-setting a bending allowance within the receiving cavity 110; and finally, constraining the other end. This allows the optical fiber 200 to cope with the expansion difference between itself and the optical fiber clip 100 during high-power operation through the reserved bending portion, preventing the optical fiber 200 from being pulled apart. This also maintains a controllable posture for the optical fiber 200 within the encapsulation of the optical fiber clip 100 and reduces the risk of thermal failure.

[0109] Reference Figures 1 to 8 As shown, in some embodiments, S200, bending the portion of the optical fiber 200 located in the receiving cavity 110 includes bending the portion of the optical fiber 200 located in the receiving cavity 110 into an arc-shaped structure at a first set temperature; the distance between the arc apex of the arc-shaped structure and the reference line 20 is q (in μm, micrometers), and the reference line 20 is the line connecting the ends of the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202 facing each other.

[0110] q satisfies: .

[0111] in, L=α×L× T; L is the distance between the first connection region 201 and the second connection region 202 (in μm, micrometer); α is the difference between the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber buckle 100 and the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber 200; T is the difference between the rated temperature and the first set temperature (in °C, degrees Celsius).

[0112] It should be noted that, under rated temperature, at least fiber 200 will not be broken by fiber 100.

[0113] In this way, the thermal margin can be set at an appropriate size, improving the objectivity and accuracy of the thermal margin setting. This avoids insufficient protection for the optical fiber 200 due to an excessively small thermal margin, and also avoids excessive bending of the optical fiber 200 due to an excessively large thermal margin. Furthermore, the arc-shaped structure can gradually flatten and absorb displacement during temperature rise, thereby reducing local stress concentration, mitigating fatigue damage under repeated thermal cycles, and maintaining the stable arrangement of the optical fiber 200 in the receiving cavity 110, while reducing the risk of overheating, cracking, and breakage.

[0114] For example, the portion of the optical fiber 200 located in the receiving cavity 110 can be bent using an auxiliary device detachably connected to the optical fiber clip 100. This auxiliary device has a pressing portion for insertion into the receiving cavity 110, which, through pressing, bends the portion of the optical fiber 200 located in the receiving cavity 110. The degree of bending of the optical fiber 200 can be precisely controlled by the protruding size design of the pressing portion, so as to bend it precisely according to dimension q.

[0115] For example, the first set temperature can be the standard temperature required for producing the pump source or laser system. For instance, in the semiconductor and precision optics industry (refer to the ISO 14644 cleanroom standard), the first set temperature can be 23°C ± 2°C.

[0116] Reference Figures 1 to 8 As shown, in some embodiments, connecting the first connection area 201 to the fiber optic buckle 100 includes: fusion splicing the first connection area 201 to the end cap 300; applying a coating to the fused fiber optic 200 and the end cap 300; and fixing the end cap 300 to the fiber optic buckle 100 to connect the first connection area 201 to the fiber optic buckle 100.

[0117] In this way, the optical performance of the end of the optical fiber 200 can be improved by using the end cap 300, and the first connection area 201 can be protected, which helps to improve the optical performance and functional stability of the optical fiber protection device.

[0118] For example, coating the spliced ​​optical fiber 200 and end cap 300 may include a Close-Packed Structure (CPS) treatment. A CPS consists of a layer of thermoplastic material, such as nylon, polyvinyl chloride, or polyurethane, tightly wrapped around the pre-coated layer to increase the outer diameter of the optical fiber. Its characteristic is that it is "tightly wrapped," with no gap between the buffer layer and the inner layer, making it difficult to peel off.

[0119] For example, CPS processing was completed by fusion splicing fiber optic cable 100 (thermal conductivity not less than 380 W / m•K), fiber optic cable 200, and end cap 300. Simulation software yielded a fiber elongation of 0.022 mm at 80℃. The fiber was then pressed down to form a parabolic arch (q mentioned earlier) of approximately 0.5 mm. After fixation with adhesive, a high-temperature cycling test (-40℃~85℃) was conducted. The results showed that fiber optic cable 200 did not break, the output optical power was stable, and the end face temperature of fiber optic cable 200 was only 52℃ (compared to 71℃ in traditional structures).

[0120] For example, when splicing fiber 200 to end cap 300, the splice loss between end cap 300 and fiber 200 can be controlled to a level not higher than 0.1dB.

[0121] Finally, it should be noted that other embodiments of the invention will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This invention is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention that follow the general principles of the invention and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein, and is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fiber optic protection device, characterized in that, include: The fiber optic buckle (100) has a receiving cavity (110); An optical fiber (200) is inserted into the optical fiber buckle (100). A portion of the structure of the optical fiber (200) is located in the receiving cavity (110). The portion of the optical fiber (200) located in the receiving cavity (110) has a thermal margin. The optical fiber (200) has a first connection region (201) and a second connection region (202). Wherein, the first connection area (201) is located at one end of the receiving cavity (110) along the length direction of the optical fiber (200), and the second connection area (202) is located at the other end of the receiving cavity (110) along the length direction of the optical fiber (200). Both the first connection area (201) and the second connection area (202) are connected to the optical fiber buckle (100). At a first set temperature, the portion of the optical fiber (200) located in the receiving cavity (110) forms an arc-shaped structure; the distance between the apex of the arc-shaped structure and the reference line (20) is q, and the reference line (20) is the line connecting the ends of the first connection region (201) and the second connection region (202) facing each other; q satisfies: ; in, L=α×L× T; L is the distance between the first connection area (201) and the second connection area (202); α is the difference between the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber buckle (100) and the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber (200); T is the difference between the rated temperature and the first set temperature.

2. The fiber optic protection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first connection area (201) is fixedly connected to the fiber optic buckle (100), and the second connection area (202) is flexibly connected to the fiber optic buckle (100).

3. The fiber optic protection device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The end region of the optical fiber (200) constitutes the first connection region (201), and the optical fiber protection device further includes: End cap (300) is fixedly connected to the first connection area (201); A transition ring (400) is fitted around the outer periphery of the end cap (300) and fixedly connected to the end cap (300). The transition ring (400) is fixedly connected to the fiber optic buckle (100). The fiber optic cable (200) passes through the transition ring (400) and is inserted into the fiber optic buckle (100).

4. The fiber optic protection device according to claim 2, characterized in that, A flexible thermally conductive connector (500) is provided between the second connection area (202) and the optical fiber buckle (100), and the flexible thermally conductive connector (500) is connected to the second connection area (202) and the optical fiber buckle (100) respectively; The second connection area (202) is flexibly connected to the fiber optic buckle (100) through the flexible thermally conductive connector (500).

5. The fiber optic protection device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The flexible thermally conductive connector (500) is bonded to the second connection area (202) and the optical fiber buckle (100) respectively.

6. The optical fiber protection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fiber optic buckle (100) includes: The seat (120) has a first receiving cavity (111); The cover (130) has a second receiving cavity (112) and the cover (130) is detachably connected to the seat (120); the first receiving cavity (111) and the second receiving cavity (112) enclose the receiving cavity (110).

7. The optical fiber protection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The base (120) has an optical fiber groove (121) that connects the interior and exterior of the first receiving cavity (111) along the length of the optical fiber (200); The fiber optic slot (121) has a slot (1211) facing one side of the fiber optic cable (200) along its own length direction; The second connection area (202) is located in the fiber optic slot (121) and connected to the fiber optic slot (121).

8. The fiber optic protection device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The seat (120) includes: The base body (122) has the first receiving cavity (111) formed therein, and a portion of the fiber optic groove (121) is formed therein. A first protrusion (123) is provided on the base body (122) and protrudes from the base body (122) along the length direction of the optical fiber (200). Another part of the optical fiber groove (121) is formed on the first protrusion (123). The fiber optic protection device also includes a sleeve (600), which is fitted onto the first protrusion (123) and closes the slot (1211).

9. The fiber optic protection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The base (120) is provided with a first connecting hole (124); The cover (130) is provided with a second connecting hole (131); The cover (130) and the seat (120) are connected by fasteners through the first connecting hole (124) and the second connecting hole (131).

10. The optical fiber protection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fiber optic buckle (100) is made of a thermally conductive material; The fiber optic buckle (100) has a connecting portion (140) adapted to connect to a pump source (10); the connecting portion (140) has a connecting surface (141) adapted to make thermal contact with the pump source (10).

11. A laser system, characterized in that, include: Pump source (10); The fiber optic protection device according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the fiber optic buckle (100) is connected to the housing of the pump source (10).

12. A method for manufacturing an optical fiber protection device, characterized in that, A method for manufacturing the optical fiber protection device according to any one of claims 1-10; the manufacturing method includes the following steps: The optical fiber (200) is threaded through the optical fiber buckle (100), and the first connection area (201) is connected to the optical fiber buckle (100); The portion of the optical fiber (200) located in the receiving cavity (110) is bent to form the thermal margin; The second connection region (202) is connected to the fiber optic buckle (100) to retain the thermal margin in the receiving cavity (110); The bending of the portion of the optical fiber (200) located in the receiving cavity (110) includes: At a first set temperature, the portion of the optical fiber (200) located in the receiving cavity (110) is bent into an arc-shaped structure; the distance between the apex of the arc-shaped structure and the reference line (20) is q, and the reference line (20) is the line connecting the ends of the first connection region (201) and the second connection region (202) facing each other; q satisfies: ; in, L=α×L× T; L is the distance between the first connection area (201) and the second connection area (202); α is the difference between the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber buckle (100) and the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber (200); T is the difference between the rated temperature and the first set temperature.

13. The method for manufacturing the optical fiber protection device according to claim 12, characterized in that, Connecting the first connection region (201) to the fiber optic buckle (100) includes: The first connecting area (201) is fused to the end cap (300); The fused optical fiber (200) and the end cap (300) are coated; The end cap (300) is fixed to the fiber optic buckle (100) to connect the first connection area (201) to the fiber optic buckle (100).

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