A laser coupling device and method

Abstract

This invention provides a laser coupling device and method. The coupling device includes a material tray module, a fiber threading motion module, an optical fiber coupling mechanism, a photoelectric detection component, and a control unit. The material tray module includes a material tray and a loading platform. The material tray is mounted on the loading platform, and at least one material clamp for fixing the laser to be coupled and an optical fiber fixing component corresponding to each material clamp are installed on the material tray. The optical fiber fixing component includes at least an optical fiber coupling end clamping device. The fiber threading motion module drives the optical fiber coupling end clamping device to move, causing the optical fiber coupling end to be inserted into the laser housing. The control unit drives the optical fiber coupling mechanism to complete the optical fiber clamping based on the optical fiber coupling end position information obtained from the image processing of the vision system, and drives the optical fiber coupling mechanism to perform the coupling and light-finding motion based on the detection data fed back by the photoelectric detection component. This invention can significantly reduce the risk of optical fiber breakage and improve coupling yield and coupling efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of laser coupling technology, specifically relating to a laser coupling device and method. Background Technology

[0002] Pump lasers, with their advantages of high output power, high coupling efficiency, narrow linewidth, and high side-mode suppression ratio, are widely used in optoelectronic devices in communication and sensing systems. These lasers consist of a housing, an optical fiber assembly, and an internal coupling device located inside the housing that requires precise optical coupling to an external optical fiber. During coupling, one end of the optical fiber assembly needs to extend into the housing for alignment and coupling with the internal coupling device, while the other end needs to be connected to optical instruments. Traditional coupling systems require moving the optical fiber to complete the connection with the optical instruments; after coupling, the coupled pump laser with the optical fiber must be removed from the fixture, and the fiber must be neatly stored. However, the process of moving the optical fiber is highly susceptible to fiber breakage, leading to excessive coupling loss.

[0003] Furthermore, the traditional fiber-coupled dispensing process for pumped lasers also has the following drawbacks: Residual adhesive can easily accumulate in dispensing needles after long-term use. If not cleaned in time, it can cause needle blockage, poor dispensing, deviation in dispensing amount, and misalignment of the dispensing position, resulting in insufficient bonding strength between the optical fiber and the coupling device. The lack of a needle patency test makes it impossible to detect needle malfunctions in advance, which can easily lead to a large number of defective products and increase production costs. The processes of coupling, dispensing, residual adhesive cleaning, and curing rely heavily on manual operation in steps. This leads to chaotic process connections, low work efficiency, and human error, which can also reduce the stability of product coupling and bonding quality. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to overcome at least one defect in the prior art and to provide a laser coupling device and method.

[0005] The technical solution of this invention is implemented as follows: This invention provides a laser coupling device, comprising: The material tray module includes a material tray and a loading platform. The material tray is installed on the loading platform. At least one material clamp for fixing the laser to be coupled is installed on the material tray, and an optical fiber fixing component corresponding to each material clamp is installed. The optical fiber fixing component includes at least an optical fiber coupling end clamping device. The fiber threading motion module is used to drive the fiber coupling end clamping device to move, so that the fiber coupling end clamping device drives the fiber coupling end to pass through the laser tube shell along a predetermined path. An optical fiber coupling mechanism, comprising an optical fiber coupling motion module and a coupling clamp for holding the optical fiber, wherein the coupling clamp is fixedly mounted on the optical fiber coupling motion module; A power supply module, which is used to provide operating power to the laser to be coupled; A photoelectric detection component is used to detect the optical performance parameters of the optical signal output by the optical fiber and feed the optical performance parameters back to the control unit. The control unit is used to drive the fiber coupling mechanism to complete fiber clamping based on the fiber coupling end position information obtained by the vision system image calculation, and to drive the fiber coupling mechanism to perform coupling and light-finding movement based on the detection data fed back by the photoelectric detection component, so as to complete the coupling alignment between the fiber and the coupling device inside the laser tube shell.

[0006] In some embodiments, the laser coupling device of the present invention further includes a distance detection device, which is used to collect the distance from its ranging head to the coupling device inside the tube shell and transmit it to the control unit. The control unit calculates the position parameters and angle parameters of the coupling device relative to the reference coordinates of the tube shell based on the distance. The control unit controls the fiber optic coupling mechanism to perform attitude compensation on the fiber optic cable based on the angle parameters, so that the fiber optic axis is consistent with the actual angle of the coupling device.

[0007] In some embodiments, the laser coupling device of the present invention further includes an adhesive application module, an adhesive dispensing module, and a curing module. At least one of the adhesive dispensing module and the curing module is fixedly mounted on a gantry assembly. The control unit executes the following control logic in sequence: after completing the coupling alignment between the optical fiber and the coupling device inside the laser housing, the gantry assembly is driven to move the adhesive dispensing module from the standby position to above the adhesive application module, and the adhesive application module and the gantry assembly are driven to perform needle adhesive application; after the adhesive application is completed, the gantry assembly is driven to move the adhesive application module to the detection area, and the needle patency detection module is driven to detect the needle patency status; after the needle patency status is qualified, the gantry assembly is driven to move the adhesive application module to the coupling area, and the adhesive application module is driven to apply adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device; after the adhesive application is completed, the curing module is driven to cure the adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device.

[0008] In some embodiments, the adhesive wiping module includes a first air gripper and two adhesive wiping blocks. The two adhesive wiping blocks are arranged at intervals and opposite to each other. The two adhesive wiping blocks are respectively fixed on two adhesive wiping block fixing seats. The two adhesive wiping block fixing seats are respectively fixed on two guide rail sliders of the first air gripper. The first air gripper is fixed on the adhesive wiping base.

[0009] In some embodiments, the laser coupling device of the present invention further includes a dispensing calibration plate for receiving adhesive droplets, and the control unit is used to drive the gantry assembly to move the dispensing module above the dispensing calibration plate, and drive the dispensing module to perform dispensing on the dispensing calibration plate. The vision system is used to acquire images of glue droplets on the glue dispensing calibration sheet, identify the size of the glue droplets, and feed them back to the control unit so that the control unit can control the glue dispensing volume of the dispensing module according to the size of the glue droplets, so that the glue dispensing volume is maintained within a preset range.

[0010] In some embodiments, the glue dispensing calibration plate is fixedly mounted on the glue wiping module.

[0011] In some embodiments, a locking device for clamping the fiber coupling end clamping device is fixedly installed on the fiber threading motion module. The fiber coupling end clamping device is supported on the material tray and slides with the material tray. The locking device is located below the fiber coupling end clamping device. The material tray is provided with a clearance opening for making way for the installation of the fiber coupling end clamping device.

[0012] In some embodiments, the laser coupling device of the present invention further includes a claw-driven assembly for driving the fiber coupling end clamping device to release the clamped fiber.

[0013] In some embodiments, the claw-driven assembly is fixedly mounted on the fiber threading motion module.

[0014] In some embodiments, the locking device includes a second pneumatic gripper and two clamping blocks. Each clamping block is provided with a positioning pin, which is arranged at a distance from each other. The two clamping blocks are respectively fixed on two clamping block fixing seats, and the two clamping block fixing seats are respectively fixed on two guide rail sliders of the second pneumatic gripper. The second pneumatic gripper is fixed on the fiber threading motion module. The bottom of the fiber coupling end clamping device is provided with a locking block. The side of the locking block is provided with a positioning hole for cooperating with the clamping block. The locking block is located in the clearance opening of the material tray.

[0015] In some embodiments, the fiber optic coupling end clamping device includes a fixed jaw and a movable jaw. The fixed jaw is fixedly mounted on a fixed clamping bracket, and the movable jaw is fixedly mounted on a movable clamping bracket. The movable clamping bracket is fixedly connected to a slider, which slides on a slide rail. The slide rail is fixed to the jaw base plate. A spring is provided between the movable clamping bracket and a spring mounting plate on the jaw base plate. The spring applies force to the movable clamping bracket to clamp the fiber optic cable between the movable jaw and the fixed jaw. A first push plate is fixedly mounted on the movable clamping bracket. The jaw pushing assembly includes an electric module and a second push plate. The second push plate is fixedly connected to the electric module. The electric module drives the second push plate, causing the first push plate to move together, thereby driving the movable jaw to move away from the fixed jaw.

[0016] In some embodiments, a spring limiting rod is fixed on the spring mounting plate, one end of the spring is sleeved on the spring limiting rod, and the other end of the spring is located in the spring limiting hole provided by the movable clamp bracket.

[0017] In some embodiments, the fiber fixing assembly further includes a fiber tail fixing device for fixing the tail end of the fiber to be coupled. The photoelectric detection assembly includes a photodetector assembly and an integrating sphere. The integrating sphere is used to receive the optical signal transmitted by the fiber and output the optical signal to the photodetector assembly. The photodetector assembly is used to detect the optical power of the incident optical signal, convert it into an electrical signal and transmit it to the control unit. The light-incident end of the integrating sphere is provided with a docking interface, which is used to match the fiber tail fixing device. The integrating sphere is fixedly installed on a docking motion module. The docking motion module is connected to the control unit. The control unit drives the docking motion module to move, causing the integrating sphere to move back and forth, thereby realizing the docking and separation of its docking interface with the fiber tail fixing device on the tray.

[0018] In some embodiments, the loading platform is used to place the material tray and drive the material tray to move, so that the laser to be coupled on each material clamp moves to the set working area.

[0019] In some embodiments, the optical fiber fixing assembly further includes an optical fiber storage device located between the optical fiber coupling end clamping device and the optical fiber tail fixing device, for accommodating the optical fiber located between the optical fiber coupling end clamping device and the optical fiber tail fixing device.

[0020] In some embodiments, the vision system includes a first vision module with its lens facing vertically downwards.

[0021] In some embodiments, the power-on module includes a power-on PCB board, which is fixedly mounted on a power-on motion module via a PCB bracket. The power-on motion module is used to move the power-on PCB board so that the power-on PCB board is electrically connected to the laser to be coupled in the working area.

[0022] In a second aspect, the present invention also discloses a laser coupling method, based on the laser coupling device described in the first aspect, the laser coupling method comprising: After the material tray is loaded, the drive loading table moves the material tray to move the first laser to be coupled to the preset working area, and performs the laser coupling process: Drive the photoelectric detection component to move so that it docks with the fiber optic tail fixing device in the working area; The drive power module moves to electrically connect with the laser to be coupled within the working area, providing power to the laser to be coupled. The drive fiber threading motion module moves the fiber coupling end clamping device in the working area, so that the fiber clamped on the fiber coupling end clamping device is threaded into the laser tube shell along a predetermined path. Receive and control the fiber coupling mechanism to enter the tube and clamp the fiber based on the fiber coupling end position information fed back by the vision system; After the fiber coupling mechanism completes the fiber clamping, the control claw push assembly runs, pushing the fiber coupling end clamping device to release the fiber it is holding. Receive and, based on the detection data fed back by the photoelectric detection component, drive the fiber coupling mechanism to perform coupling and light-finding motion until the coupling state meets the standard, thus completing the coupling alignment between the fiber and the coupling device inside the laser housing. Once the coupling process of the first laser to be coupled is completed, the loading platform is driven to move the tray to move the next laser to be coupled to the preset working area. The laser coupling process is repeated until all lasers to be coupled in the tray are coupled.

[0023] In some embodiments, before coupling and finding the light, the following steps are also included: controlling the distance detection device to collect the distance from its ranging head to the coupling device inside the tube shell in the working area, and calculating the position parameters and angle parameters of the coupling device relative to the reference coordinates of the tube shell based on the distance; Based on the aforementioned angle parameters, the fiber optic coupling mechanism is controlled to perform attitude compensation on the fiber optic cable, ensuring that the fiber optic axis maintains the same angle as the actual angle of the coupling device.

[0024] In some embodiments, after the coupling alignment of the optical fiber and the coupling device inside the laser housing is completed, the following steps are also included: driving the gantry assembly to move the dispensing module from the standby station to above the wiping module, and driving the wiping module and the gantry assembly to perform the needle wiping operation. After the adhesive application is completed, the drive gantry assembly moves the dispensing module to the coupling area and drives the dispensing module to apply adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device. After the dispensing is completed, the drive curing module cures the adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device, thus completing the coupling process of the laser to be coupled.

[0025] In some embodiments, when the needle patency test fails, the drive gantry assembly returns the dispensing module to the wiping module to repeat the wiping action until the needle patency test passes.

[0026] The present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: The present invention has at least one material fixture for fixing the laser to be coupled and an optical fiber fixing assembly corresponding to each material fixture. The optical fiber fixing assembly includes at least an optical fiber coupling end clamping device. The present invention pre-fixes each optical fiber on the optical fiber fixing assembly of the material tray. In the whole optical fiber coupling process, there is no need to move the optical fiber significantly to prevent optical fiber breakage. The present invention can significantly reduce the risk of optical fiber breakage and improve the coupling yield. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a laser coupling device disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gantry assembly disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first vision module, a dispensing module, a curing module, and a distance detection device disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 for Figure 3 A diagram from another perspective; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the optical fiber coupling mechanism disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 for Figure 5 A diagram from another perspective; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the power-on module, the material tray module, and the fiber threading motion module disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the material tray module and the fiber threading motion module disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 for Figure 8 A schematic diagram from another perspective (the tray is not shown); Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a material tray module disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 for Figure 10 Top view; Figure 12 for Figure 10 A schematic diagram from another perspective (the tray is not shown); Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a material tray module disclosed in another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a material clamp, an optical fiber coupling end clamping device, an optical fiber storage device, and an optical fiber tail fixing device disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a material clamp and fiber optic coupling end clamping device disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 16 for Figure 15 A diagram from another perspective; Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the fiber threading motion module and locking device disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a locking device disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 19 for Figure 18 A diagram from another perspective; Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a power-on module disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a power-on PCB board disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a photoelectric detection component disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the adhesive application module disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 24 for Figure 23 A diagram from another perspective.

[0029] In the attached diagram, 1 is the loading platform, 2 is the material tray, 21 is the clearance opening, 3 is the material clamp, 4 is the fiber optic coupling end clamping device, 41 is the locking block, 42 ​​is the fixed claw clamp, 43 is the movable claw clamp, 44 is the claw clamp base plate, 45 is the first push plate, 46 is the spring, 47 is the spring mounting plate, 5 is the fiber optic storage device, 6 is the fiber optic tail fixing device, 7 is the fiber threading motion module, 8 is the locking device, 81 is the second pneumatic gripper, 82 is the clamping block, 83 is the clamping block fixing seat, 84 is the second push plate, 85 is the electric module, 9 is the fiber optic coupling mechanism, 91 is the fiber optic coupling motion module, 92 is the coupling clamp, and 10 is the power-on module. 101 is the power-on PCB board, 102 is the PCB support, 103 is the power-on motion module, 104 is the prism, 11 is the photoelectric detection component, 111 is the integrating sphere, 112 is the docking interface, 113 is the photoelectric detector component, 114 is the docking motion module, 12 is the gantry component, 13 is the dispensing module, 14 is the curing module, 15 is the distance detection device, 16 is the adhesive wiping module, 161 is the first gripper, 162 is the adhesive wiping block, 163 is the adhesive wiping block fixing seat, 164 is the adhesive wiping base, 165 is the reflector, 17 is the first vision module, 18 is the second vision module, 19 is the optical platform, and 20 is the tube shell. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0031] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0032] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature; in the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" or "several" means two or more.

[0033] This invention at least solves the technical problem of excessive coupling loss caused by the fiber being easily broken due to the need for multiple movements and manual operation during the coupling process of traditional pump lasers.

[0034] See Figures 1 to 24 The present invention provides a laser coupling device, comprising: The material tray module includes a material tray 2 and a loading platform 1. The material tray 2 is installed on the loading platform 1. At least one material clamp 3 for fixing the laser to be coupled is installed on the material tray 2, and an optical fiber fixing component corresponding to each material clamp 3 is installed. The optical fiber fixing component includes at least an optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4 for clamping the coupling end of the optical fiber to be coupled. The fiber threading motion module 7 is used to drive the fiber coupling end clamping device 4 to move, so that the fiber coupling end clamping device 4 drives the fiber coupling end to pass through the laser tube shell 20 along a predetermined path. The fiber optic coupling mechanism 9 includes a fiber optic coupling motion module 91 and a coupling clamp 92 for holding the fiber optic cable. The coupling clamp 92 is fixedly mounted on the fiber optic coupling motion module 91, and the fiber optic coupling motion module 91 is used to drive the coupling clamp 92 to move. Power-on module 10, which is used to provide operating power to the laser to be coupled; The photoelectric detection component 11 is used to detect the optical performance parameters of the optical signal output by the optical fiber and feed the optical performance parameters back to the control unit. The control unit is used to drive the fiber coupling mechanism 9 to complete fiber clamping based on the fiber coupling end position information obtained by the vision system image calculation, and to perform coupling light-finding movement based on the detection data fed back by the photoelectric detection component 11 until the coupling state meets the standard, thereby completing the coupling alignment between the fiber and the coupling device inside the laser tube housing.

[0035] The material clamp 3 is fixed on the material tray 2.

[0036] The vision system is used to acquire at least a top-view image of the laser to be coupled, and to obtain the position information of the fiber coupling end based on the top-view image of the laser to be coupled.

[0037] In some embodiments, the vision system includes a first vision module 17, the lens of which is vertically downward.

[0038] The power-on module 10, the fiber optic coupling mechanism 9, the loading platform 1, and the photoelectric detection component 11 are respectively fixedly installed on the optical platform 19.

[0039] In some embodiments, a plurality of material clamps 3 are installed on the material tray 2, and the loading platform 1 is used to place the material tray 2 and drive the material tray 2 to move, so that the lasers to be coupled on each material clamp 3 move sequentially to the set working area.

[0040] The tray 2 is provided with an area for fixing and installing the optical fiber storage device 5 and the optical fiber tail fixing device 6.

[0041] In some embodiments, the optical fiber fixing assembly further includes an optical fiber tail fixing device 6, which is used to fix the tail end of the optical fiber to be coupled. The optical fiber tail fixing device 6 is fixed on the tray 2.

[0042] In some embodiments, the optical fiber fixing assembly further includes an optical fiber storage device 5, which is located between the optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4 and the optical fiber tail fixing device 6, and is used to accommodate the optical fiber located between the optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4 and the optical fiber tail fixing device 6. The optical fiber storage device 5 is fixed on the tray 2.

[0043] The present invention provides a tray equipped with at least one material clamp for fixing the laser to be coupled and fiber optic fixing assemblies corresponding to each material clamp. Each fiber optic fixing assembly includes at least a fiber coupling end clamping device. The present invention pre-fixes each fiber completely onto the fiber optic fixing assembly on the tray, eliminating the need for significant fiber movement during the entire fiber coupling process and preventing fiber breakage. Furthermore, the fiber fixing assembly includes a fiber storage device 5 and a fiber tail fixing device 6, eliminating the need for frequent fiber movement, insertion and removal of instrument connectors, and secondary fiber coiling, which are prone to pulling and damaging the fiber and thus causing fiber breakage. The present invention significantly reduces the risk of fiber breakage, improves coupling yield, and enhances coupling efficiency.

[0044] Furthermore, the present invention uses a tray 2 to load multiple tube shells 20 and multiple optical fiber fixing components that are matched with the tube shells 20, which can realize continuous processing and greatly improve the efficiency of mass production.

[0045] In some embodiments, the laser coupling device of the present invention further includes a distance detection device 15, which is used to collect the distance from its ranging head to the coupling device inside the housing 20 and transmit it to the control unit. The control unit calculates the position parameters and angle parameters of the coupling device relative to the reference coordinates of the housing 20 based on the distance. The control unit controls the fiber optic coupling mechanism 9 to perform attitude compensation on the fiber optic cable based on the angle parameters, so that the fiber optic axis is consistent with the actual angle of the coupling device.

[0046] This invention uses a distance detection device 15 to measure the actual position and angle of the internal coupling device in real time, and the fiber optic coupling motion module 91 performs attitude compensation to ensure that the fiber axis is aligned with the actual angle of the device. This effectively eliminates alignment errors caused by installation deviations of the internal components in the housing 20, ensuring the accuracy of subsequent optical coupling. It eliminates internal component installation errors and improves coupling accuracy.

[0047] In some embodiments, the laser coupling device of the present invention further includes a glue-wiping module 16, a glue-dispensing module 13, and a curing module 14. At least one of the glue-dispensing module 13 and the curing module 14 is fixedly mounted on the gantry assembly 12. The control unit executes the following control logic in sequence: after completing the coupling alignment between the optical fiber and the coupling device inside the laser housing, the gantry assembly 12 is driven to move the glue-dispensing module 13 from the standby position to above the glue-wiping module 16, and the glue-wiping module and the gantry assembly are driven to perform the needle glue-wiping operation. After the adhesive application is completed, the drive gantry assembly 12 moves the dispensing module 13 to the preset detection area and drives the needle patency detection module to detect the needle patency status. After the needle patency status is qualified, the drive gantry assembly 12 moves the dispensing module 13 to the preset coupling area and drives the dispensing module to apply adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device. After the dispensing is completed, the drive gantry assembly 12 moves the curing module 14 to the preset curing area and drives the curing module 14 to cure the adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device.

[0048] The gantry assembly 12 is fixedly mounted on the optical platform 19.

[0049] This invention achieves the following technical effects by setting up a module 14 for glue application, needle detection, automatic glue dispensing, and curing, and cooperating with a control unit to realize the sequential linkage of processes: Regularly clean the needle tip to prevent the glue from drying and causing blockage, ensuring precise and controllable glue application volume and location.

[0050] By checking the patency of the dispensing needle, abnormalities can be identified in advance, preventing defects such as glue leakage or insufficient glue caused by needle failure, and improving product yield.

[0051] The entire process of dispensing, cleaning, testing, and curing is automated, reducing manual intervention, simplifying process connections, and significantly improving production efficiency.

[0052] Automated operation reduces human error, and the curing module 14 cures the adhesive, ensuring a strong bond between the optical fiber and the coupling device, stable performance, and guaranteed optical coupling quality.

[0053] The gantry assembly 12 includes a gantry frame and X-axis linear modules, Y-axis linear modules, and Z-axis linear modules. The X-axis linear module drives the dispensing module 13 to move laterally, the Y-axis linear module drives the dispensing module 13 to move longitudinally, and the Z-axis linear module drives the dispensing module 13 to move vertically. Each linear module of the gantry assembly 12 is controlled by a control unit.

[0054] The curing module 14 is also fixedly installed on the gantry assembly 12. The X-axis linear module is used to drive the curing module 14 to move laterally, the Y-axis linear module is used to drive the curing module 14 to move longitudinally, and the Z-axis linear module is used to drive the curing module 14 to perform lifting and lowering movements.

[0055] The distance detection device 15 is also installed on the gantry assembly 12. The X-axis linear module is used to drive the distance detection device 15 to move laterally, the Y-axis linear module is used to drive the distance detection device 15 to move longitudinally, and the Z-axis linear module is used to drive the distance detection device 15 to perform lifting and lowering movements.

[0056] The needle patency detection module includes a second vision module 18, whose lens is vertically upward and used to photograph the tip of the needle to detect the patency of the needle.

[0057] The first vision module 17 is fixedly mounted on the gantry assembly 12. The X-axis linear module is used to drive the first vision module 17 to move laterally, the Y-axis linear module is used to drive the first vision module 17 to move longitudinally, and the Z-axis linear module is used to drive the first vision module 17 to perform lifting and lowering movements. The dispensing module 13 and the curing module 14 can also be equipped with their own Z-axis linear modules.

[0058] In some embodiments, the gantry includes two columns and a crossbeam. An X-axis linear module is fixed to the upper end of each of the two columns. Both ends of the crossbeam are connected to sliders of the X-axis linear modules at the upper ends of the two columns. A first mounting plate is fixed to the crossbeam, and a first Z-axis linear module is fixed to the first mounting plate. A second mounting plate is fixedly connected to the slider of the first Z-axis linear module, and the first vision module 17 is fixed to the second mounting plate. The dispensing module 13 includes a dispensing needle, which is fixed to the slider of the third Z-axis linear module via a dispensing mounting bracket. The curing module 14 includes a UV curing lamp, which is fixed to the slider of the fourth Z-axis linear module via a curing mounting bracket. Both the third and fourth Z-axis linear modules are fixed to the second mounting plate.

[0059] In some embodiments, the distance detection device 15 is fixed on a curing mounting bracket.

[0060] When glue blockage is detected at the needle, the drive gantry assembly 12 returns the dispensing module 13 to the wiping module 16 to repeat the wiping action until the needle unobstructed state is qualified.

[0061] In some embodiments, the adhesive wiping module 16 includes a first air gripper 161 and two adhesive wiping blocks 162. The two adhesive wiping blocks 162 are arranged at intervals and opposite to each other. The two adhesive wiping blocks 162 are respectively fixed on two adhesive wiping block fixing seats 163. The two adhesive wiping block fixing seats 163 are respectively fixed on two guide rail sliders of the first air gripper 161. The first air gripper 161 is fixed on the adhesive wiping base 164.

[0062] The adhesive wiping block 162 is an adhesive block. The needle patency detection module is fixedly installed on the adhesive wiping base 164.

[0063] In some embodiments, the laser coupling device of the present invention further includes a dispensing calibration plate for receiving adhesive droplets, and the control unit is used to drive the gantry assembly to move the dispensing module above the dispensing calibration plate, and drive the dispensing module to perform dispensing on the dispensing calibration plate. The vision system is used to acquire images of glue droplets on the glue dispensing calibration sheet, identify the size of the glue droplets, and feed them back to the control unit so that the control unit can control the glue dispensing volume of the dispensing module according to the size of the glue droplets, so that the glue dispensing volume is maintained within a preset range.

[0064] In some embodiments, the glue dispensing calibration plate is fixedly mounted on the glue wiping module.

[0065] In some embodiments, the laser coupling device of the present invention further includes a claw-driven assembly for driving the fiber coupling end clamping device to release the clamped fiber.

[0066] In some embodiments, the claw-driven assembly is fixedly mounted on the fiber threading motion module.

[0067] In some embodiments, a locking device 8 for clamping the fiber coupling end clamping device 4 is fixedly installed on the fiber threading motion module 7. The fiber coupling end clamping device 4 is supported on the tray 2 and slides with the tray 2. The locking device 8 is located below the fiber coupling end clamping device 4. The tray 2 is provided with a clearance opening 21 for making way for the installation of the fiber coupling end clamping device 4.

[0068] The fiber threading motion module 7 is used to drive the locking device 8 to move up and down and to move the fiber clamp along the direction of approaching or moving away from the laser tube housing 20. The fiber threading motion module 7 is controlled by the control unit.

[0069] In some embodiments, the fiber threading motion module 7 can drive the locking device 8 to move up and down and along the horizontal direction.

[0070] In some embodiments, the fiber threading motion module 7 also has an arcuate axis (i.e., a rotation axis) that can adjust the orientation of the optical fiber.

[0071] The present invention identifies the angle between the optical fiber and the tube shell through a vision system. Based on the angle, the fiber threading motion module 7 is controlled to adjust the posture of the optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4 to compensate for the angle and make the optical fiber enter the tube shell in parallel.

[0072] The arc axis is used to adjust the orientation of the optical fiber before it enters the housing, so that it enters parallel to the housing.

[0073] In some embodiments, the locking device 8 includes a second pneumatic gripper 81 and two clamping blocks 82. Each clamping block 82 has a positioning pin, which are spaced apart and opposite to each other. The two clamping blocks 82 are respectively fixed to two clamping block fixing seats 83, which are respectively fixed to two guide rail sliders of the second pneumatic gripper 81. The second pneumatic gripper 81 is fixed to the fiber threading motion module 7. The bottom of the fiber coupling end clamping device 4 has a locking block 41. The side of the locking block 41 has a positioning hole for cooperating with the clamping block 82. The locking block 41 is located within the clearance opening 21 of the tray 2. The axis of the positioning pin faces horizontally. The first and second pneumatic grippers are controlled by a control unit.

[0074] The optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4 includes a fixed jaw clamp 42 and a movable jaw clamp 43. The fixed jaw clamp 42 is fixedly installed on a fixed clamping bracket, and the movable jaw clamp 43 is fixedly installed on a movable clamping bracket. The movable clamping bracket is fixedly connected to a slider, and the slider slides on a slide rail. The slide rail is fixed on a jaw clamp base plate 44. A spring is provided between the movable clamping bracket and a spring mounting plate on the jaw clamp base plate. The spring is used to apply force to the movable clamping bracket so that the movable jaw clamp 43 clamps the optical fiber with the fixed jaw clamp 42. A first push plate is fixedly installed on the movable clamping bracket.

[0075] The gripper pushing assembly includes an electric module and a second pusher plate. The second pusher plate is fixedly connected to the electric module. The electric module drives the second pusher plate, causing the first pusher plate to move together, thereby displacing the movable gripper away from the fixed gripper. The electric module is controlled by a control unit.

[0076] Limiting steps are provided at both ends of the claw base plate 44.

[0077] A spring limiting rod is fixed on the spring mounting plate. One end of the spring is sleeved on the spring limiting rod, and the other end of the spring is located in the spring limiting hole provided in the movable clamp bracket.

[0078] In some embodiments, the power-on module 10 includes a power-on PCB board 101, which is fixedly mounted on a power-on motion module 103 via a PCB bracket 102. The power-on motion module 103 is used to drive the power-on PCB board 101 to move, so that the power-on PCB board 101 is electrically connected to the laser to be coupled in the working area.

[0079] The powered motion module 103 can drive the powered PCB board 101 to move up and down and horizontally.

[0080] In some embodiments, the power-on motion module 103 can drive the power-on PCB board 101 to move along the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. The power-on motion module 103 is controlled by a control unit.

[0081] The power-on PCB board 101 is provided with a power-on pin for powering the laser housing 20, and the power-on pin is electrically connected to the power-on PCB board 101.

[0082] The power-on motion module 103 is fixed with a power-on module 10 mounting plate, and the PCB bracket 102 is fixed on the power-on module 10 mounting plate.

[0083] In some embodiments, the laser coupling device of the present invention further includes a dispensing calibration plate for receiving adhesive droplets, and the control unit is used to drive the gantry assembly to move the dispensing module above the dispensing calibration plate and drive the dispensing module to perform dispensing on the dispensing calibration plate.

[0084] The vision system is used to acquire images of glue droplets on the glue dispensing calibration sheet, identify the size of the glue droplets, and feed them back to the control unit so that the control unit can control the glue dispensing volume of the dispensing module according to the size of the glue droplets, so that the glue dispensing volume is maintained within a preset range.

[0085] The adhesive calibration sheet is a reflective sheet 165.

[0086] The vision system is used to acquire imaging information of adhesive droplets on the reflector, detect the size of the adhesive droplets, and feed back to the control unit to complete the adhesive dispensing amount correction.

[0087] The reflector 165 is fixed on one of the adhesive block fixing seats 163.

[0088] In some embodiments, the vision system further includes a reflection module, which is capable of reflecting the side image of the laser to be coupled and sending it into the imaging area of ​​the first vision module. The first vision module acquires the reflected side visual image and then sends the image data to the control unit.

[0089] The reflection module is used in conjunction with the first vision module to assist in the observation of the laser to be coupled.

[0090] The reflection module is fixedly mounted on the mounting plate of the power-on module 10. The reflection module is a triangular prism 104.

[0091] In some embodiments, the fiber optic coupled motion module 91 is a multi-axis motion module, such as the six-axis motion module in this embodiment. The fiber optic coupled motion module 91 is controlled by a control unit. The coupling clamp 92 is an electrically operated clamping clamp, controlled by a control unit. The control unit drives the two jaws of the electrically operated clamping clamp to complete the opening and closing actions.

[0092] In some embodiments, the photoelectric detection component 11 includes a photodetector component 113 and an integrating sphere 111. The integrating sphere 111 is used to receive optical signals transmitted through optical fibers and output the optical signals to the photodetector component 113. The photodetector component 113 is used to detect the optical power of the incident optical signal, convert it into an electrical signal, and transmit it to the control unit. The light-incident end of the integrating sphere 111 is provided with a docking interface 112. The docking interface 112 is used to match the optical fiber tail fixing device 6. The integrating sphere 111 is fixedly installed on the docking motion module 114. The docking motion module 114 is connected to the control unit. The control unit drives the docking motion module 114 to move, causing the integrating sphere 111 to move back and forth, thereby realizing the docking and separation of its docking interface 112 with the optical fiber tail fixing device 6 on the tray 2.

[0093] When the docking interface 112 of the integrating sphere 111 docks with the fiber optic tail fixing device 6 on the tray 2, part of the fiber optic tail fixing device 6 is inserted into the docking interface 112 of the integrating sphere 111.

[0094] In some embodiments, the fiber optic tail fixing device 6 has an axial through hole for the fiber optic cable to pass through.

[0095] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the end of the fiber optic tail fixing device 6 near the photoelectric detection component 11 may be, but is not limited to, cylindrical, for insertion into the docking interface 112 of the integrating sphere 111.

[0096] In some embodiments, the fiber optic tail fixing device 6 includes a clamp base and a clamp cover plate. At least the clamp base is provided with a groove for accommodating the fiber optic cable. The two ends of the groove extend through the two ends of the clamp base. The clamp cover plate is detachably fixedly connected to the clamp base, and an axial through hole for the fiber optic cable to pass through is formed between the clamp cover plate and the clamp base.

[0097] The laser coupling operation steps of the present invention include: S1. Material preparation steps: Multiple tube shells 20 to be coupled are respectively installed in multiple material clamps 3 on the material tray 2; the optical fiber to be coupled is placed in the optical fiber storage device 5, the optical fiber coupling end is clamped and fixed by the optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4, and the optical fiber tail end is fixed by the optical fiber tail end fixing device 6; then the assembled material tray 2 is installed on the loading platform 1.

[0098] S2. Workpiece positioning steps: The loading platform 1 drives the material tray 2 to move, causing the first tube shell 20 to be coupled to move to the working area; the fiber threading motion module 7 drives the locking device 8 to rise to the working area; the photoelectric detection component 11 moves to the working area and docks with the fiber optic tail fixing device 6; the power module 10 moves to the working area and provides working power to the laser to be coupled; the first vision module 17 (i.e., the top-view camera) moves synchronously to the working area to complete the initial positioning of the workpiece to be coupled.

[0099] S3. Optical fiber insertion steps: The fiber threading motion module 7 drives the locking device 8 to continue moving upward and clamps the fiber coupling end clamping device 4; then the fiber threading motion module 7 drives the locking device 8 to move the fiber coupling end clamping device 4 toward the tube shell 20, so that the fiber enters the tube shell 20 along a predetermined path.

[0100] S4. Internal component position detection steps: While the optical fiber is being inserted, the distance detection device 15 sends three distance detection signals to the coupling device inside the tube shell 20. Based on the return results of the three detection signals, the position and angle parameters of the internal coupling device relative to the reference coordinates of the tube shell 20 are calculated, and the detection results are recorded as the basis for subsequent compensation.

[0101] S5. Fiber optic connector installation and error compensation steps: The fiber optic coupling motion module 91 drives the coupling clamp 92 into the tube shell 20 and controls the coupling clamp 92 to clamp the fiber that has been inserted into the tube shell 20; after the coupling clamp 92 completes clamping, it controls the claw clamp to drive the component to move, and pushes the movable claw of the fiber optic coupling end clamping device 4 to release the fiber.

[0102] Subsequently, the fiber optic coupling motion module 91 performs attitude compensation on the coupling fixture 92 through the rotation axis according to the angle parameters obtained in step S4, so that the fiber axis is consistent with the actual angle of the internal coupling device, thereby eliminating the angle deviation caused by the installation error of the internal coupling device.

[0103] S6. Finding the optical coupling step: After attitude compensation is completed, the fiber optic coupling motion module 91 drives the coupling fixture 92 to continue to approach the internal coupling device, and performs optical coupling motion based on the optical power signal fed back by the photoelectric detection component 11 until the preset coupling efficiency requirement is reached, thereby completing the precise alignment of the fiber optic cable with the internal coupling device.

[0104] S7. Dispensing preparation steps: After the coupling alignment of the optical fiber and the coupling device inside the laser tube is completed, the dispensing module 13 is driven to move above the wiping module 16, and the needle of the dispensing module 13 is inserted between the two wiping blocks 162 of the wiping module 16; the two wiping blocks 162 are controlled to clamp the needle, and then the needle tube of the dispensing module 13 is controlled to move upward to complete the cleaning of residual glue on the outer wall of the needle.

[0105] The present invention also includes a needle patency test step. The needle patency test step can be performed after the glue application is completed or before the glue application is completed. For example, a needle patency test can be performed once after changing the glue container, and it is not necessary to perform a needle patency test after each glue application.

[0106] The needle patency detection steps specifically include: moving the needle tube of the dispensing module 13 to the needle patency detection area, and detecting the dispensing status of the needle through the needle patency detection module (including the upward-looking lens); when a clogging phenomenon is detected in the needle, controlling the needle tube to return to the wiping module 16 to perform the wiping action; when the detection result shows that the needle is patency, proceeding to the next step.

[0107] S8. Adhesive application and fixing steps: The needle of the drive dispensing module 13 is moved to the coupling area to perform quantitative dispensing at the junction of the optical fiber and the internal coupling device, so that the glue covers the preset bonding area.

[0108] S9. Curing Step: The drive curing module 14 moves to the dispensing area to cure the adhesive, thereby forming a stable connection structure between the optical fiber and the internal coupling device.

[0109] S10, Reset and Cyclic Processing Steps: After curing is completed, the locking device 8, photoelectric detection component 11, power-on module 10 and first vision module are driven to return to their initial positions to complete the coupling operation of the current Pump laser.

[0110] Subsequently, the loading platform 1 drives the material tray 2 to continue moving, so that the next tube shell 20 to be coupled enters the working area, and steps S2 to S10 are repeated until all Pump lasers corresponding to all fixtures in the material tray 2 are coupled.

[0111] After all coupling is completed, remove tray 2 and take out the entire Pump laser that has been coupled. Replace it with the next tray 2 to be processed and enter the next production cycle.

[0112] In this invention, the optical fiber to be coupled is placed in the optical fiber storage device 5, the optical fiber coupling end is clamped and fixed by the optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4, and the optical fiber tail end is fixed by the optical fiber tail end fixing device 6. During the entire coupling, dispensing and curing process of S2-S10, the optical fiber tail end can remain stationary. After the product is taken out from the material fixture 3, there is no need to sort the optical fiber, thus eliminating the risk of breakage caused by manual movement and storage of the optical fiber.

[0113] This invention integrates the entire process of material loading, positioning, fiber threading, error compensation, optical coupling, dispensing, curing, and reset cycle into a single machine for automated completion. After coupling, the laser remains fixed in the material clamp 3, eliminating the need to remove and separately arrange the optical fiber, thus greatly reducing the probability of fiber breakage due to repeated loading, unloading, and handling.

[0114] The present invention uses the locking device 8 on the fiber threading motion module 7 to drive the fiber coupling end clamping device 4 to thread the fiber into the tube shell 20, and then the fiber coupling mechanism 9 automatically clamps the fiber and connects it. The whole process does not require manual direct contact with the fiber, realizing automated fiber threading and connection, reducing human intervention and avoiding damage caused by manual operation.

[0115] The present invention also solves the problem of low coupling accuracy caused by the installation error of internal coupling devices through the error compensation mechanism in steps S4 and S5.

[0116] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure also provides a laser coupling method. This laser coupling method is based on the laser coupling device provided in the preceding embodiments. For a detailed description of the laser coupling device, please refer to the content in the preceding embodiments. The laser coupling method includes: After the material tray 2 is loaded, the loading platform 1 is driven to move the material tray 2, moving the first laser to be coupled to the preset working area and performing the laser coupling process: Drive the photoelectric detection component 11 to move so that it docks with the fiber optic tail fixing device 6 in the working area; The drive power module 10 is moved to electrically connect it to the laser to be coupled in the working area, so as to provide working power to the laser to be coupled. The drive fiber threading motion module 7 moves the fiber coupling end clamping device 4 in the working area, so that the fiber clamped on the fiber coupling end clamping device 4 is inserted into the laser tube shell 20 along a predetermined path. Receive and control the fiber coupling mechanism 9 to enter the housing 20 and clamp the fiber based on the fiber coupling end position information fed back by the vision system. After the fiber coupling mechanism completes the fiber clamping, the control claw push assembly runs, pushing the fiber coupling end clamping device to release the fiber it is holding. Receive and, based on the detection data fed back by the photoelectric detection component 11, drive the fiber coupling mechanism 9 to perform the coupling and light-finding motion until the coupling state meets the standard, thus completing the coupling alignment between the fiber and the coupling device inside the laser housing. Once the coupling process of the first laser to be coupled is completed, the loading platform 1 drives the tray 2 to continue to move, moving the next laser to be coupled to the preset working area, and repeating the laser coupling process until all lasers to be coupled in the tray 2 have been coupled.

[0117] In some embodiments, before coupling and finding light, the following steps are also included: controlling the distance detection device 15 to collect the distance from its ranging head to the coupling device inside the tube shell 20 in the working area, and calculating the position parameters and angle parameters of the coupling device relative to the reference coordinates of the tube shell 20 based on the distance; Based on the angle parameters, the fiber coupling mechanism 9 is controlled to perform attitude compensation on the fiber, so that the fiber axis is consistent with the actual angle of the coupling device.

[0118] In some embodiments, after the coupling alignment of the optical fiber and the coupling device inside the laser housing is completed, the following steps are also included: driving the gantry assembly 12 to move the dispensing module 13 from the standby station to above the wiping module 16, and driving the wiping module and the gantry assembly to perform the needle wiping operation. After the adhesive application is completed, the drive gantry assembly 12 drives the dispensing module 13 to the coupling area and drives the dispensing module to apply adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device. After the dispensing is completed, the drive curing module 14 cures the adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device, thus completing the coupling process of the laser to be coupled.

[0119] In some embodiments, the laser coupling method of the present invention further includes a needle patency detection step.

[0120] The needle patency test procedure specifically includes: driving the gantry assembly 12 to move the dispensing module 13 to the testing area, and driving the needle patency test module to detect the needle patency status. If the needle patency status test is qualified, proceed to the next step. If the needle patency status test is unqualified, driving the gantry assembly 12 to return the dispensing module 13 to the wiping module 16 to repeat the wiping action until the needle patency status test is qualified, and then proceed to the next step.

[0121] This invention utilizes an automatic adhesive removal and upward-looking detection mechanism to clean residual adhesive from the needle and identify adhesive blockage, ensuring that the needle is unobstructed before each dispensing. This avoids inaccurate dispensing or weak bonding caused by adhesive blockage or residual adhesive, ensuring the stability of the optical fiber and the internal coupling device fixing structure, and guaranteeing the consistency and reliability of the dispensing process.

[0122] The fiber threading motion module 7 is driven to move the optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4 in the working area, which specifically includes: driving the fiber threading motion module 7 to move horizontally to the working area, then continuing to drive the locking device 8 to move upward to contact the lower end of the optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4, controlling the locking device 8 to clamp the optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4, then driving the optical fiber coupling end clamping device 4 to move toward the tube shell 20, so that the optical fiber is threaded into the interior of the laser tube shell 20 along a predetermined path.

[0123] The present invention may be provided with a material tray 2 loading detection device, which detects the loading of the material tray 2. When it is detected that the material tray 2 is loaded in place on the loading table 1, it is determined that the loading of the material tray 2 is completed. Certainly, the present invention may also determine that the loading of the material tray 2 is completed after receiving a preset manual instruction.

[0124] The entire coupling process (fiber threading, alignment, compensation, dispensing, curing) is automatically completed by the motion module, the fixture, the power-on module 10, the curing module 14, etc., and the operator only needs to complete the initial loading and the installation of the material tray 2. The present invention can realize full-process automation, improve production efficiency, integrate processes such as loading, fiber threading, error compensation, light searching, dispensing, curing, and reset cycle, and does not require manual intervention for each movement and connection of the optical fiber. Meanwhile, the present invention adopts the material tray 2 to load a plurality of tube shells 20 and a plurality of optical fiber fixing assemblies matched with the tube shells 20, which can realize continuous processing and greatly improve the efficiency of mass production.

[0125] On the premise of ensuring high-precision coupling, the present invention completely solves the industry pain point that optical fibers are easy to break, and realizes the automatic, high-yield and high-efficiency production of the entire process of coupling, dispensing and curing of the pump laser.

[0126] The foregoing is only the preferred embodiment of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement and the like made within the spirit and principle of the present invention shall be included in the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A laser coupling device, characterized in that, include: The material tray module includes a material tray and a loading platform. The material tray is installed on the loading platform. At least one material clamp for fixing the laser to be coupled is installed on the material tray, and an optical fiber fixing component corresponding to each material clamp is installed. The optical fiber fixing component includes at least an optical fiber coupling end clamping device. The fiber threading motion module is used to drive the fiber coupling end clamping device to move, so that the fiber coupling end clamping device drives the fiber coupling end to pass through the laser tube shell along a predetermined path. An optical fiber coupling mechanism, comprising an optical fiber coupling motion module and a coupling clamp for holding the optical fiber, wherein the coupling clamp is fixedly mounted on the optical fiber coupling motion module; A power supply module, which is used to provide operating power to the laser to be coupled; A photoelectric detection component is used to detect the optical performance parameters of the optical signal output by the optical fiber and feed the optical performance parameters back to the control unit. The control unit is used to drive the fiber coupling mechanism to complete fiber clamping based on the fiber coupling end position information obtained by the vision system image calculation, and to drive the fiber coupling mechanism to perform coupling and light-finding movement based on the detection data fed back by the photoelectric detection component, so as to complete the coupling alignment between the fiber and the coupling device inside the laser tube shell.

2. The laser coupling device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a distance detection device, which is used to collect the distance from its ranging head to the coupling device inside the tube shell and transmit it to the control unit. The control unit calculates the position parameters and angle parameters of the coupling device relative to the reference coordinates of the tube shell based on the distance. The control unit controls the fiber optic coupling mechanism to perform attitude compensation on the fiber optic cable based on the angle parameters, so that the fiber optic axis is consistent with the actual angle of the coupling device.

3. The laser coupling device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes an adhesive application module, an adhesive dispensing module, and a curing module. At least one of the adhesive dispensing module and the curing module is fixedly mounted on the gantry assembly. The control unit executes the following control logic in sequence: After completing the coupling alignment between the optical fiber and the coupling device inside the laser housing, the gantry assembly is driven to move the adhesive dispensing module from the standby position to above the adhesive application module, and the adhesive application module and the gantry assembly are driven to perform needle adhesive application; after the adhesive application is completed, the gantry assembly is driven to move the adhesive dispensing module to the preset detection area, and the needle patency detection module is driven to detect the needle patency status; after the needle patency status is qualified, the gantry assembly is driven to move the adhesive dispensing module to the preset coupling area, and the adhesive dispensing module is driven to apply adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device; After the adhesive is applied, the drive curing module cures the adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device.

4. The laser coupling device as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The adhesive wiping module includes a first air gripper and two adhesive wiping blocks. The two adhesive wiping blocks are arranged at intervals and opposite to each other. The two adhesive wiping blocks are respectively fixed on two adhesive wiping block fixing seats. The two adhesive wiping block fixing seats are respectively fixed on the two guide rail sliders of the first air gripper. The first air gripper is fixed on the adhesive wiping base. And / or, It also includes a dispensing calibration plate for receiving adhesive droplets. The control unit is used to drive the gantry assembly to move the dispensing module above the dispensing calibration plate and drive the dispensing module to perform dispensing on the dispensing calibration plate. The vision system is used to acquire images of glue droplets on the glue dispensing calibration sheet, identify the size of the glue droplets, and feed them back to the control unit so that the control unit can control the glue dispensing volume of the dispensing module according to the size of the glue droplets, so that the glue dispensing volume is maintained within a preset range.

5. The laser coupling device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The fiber threading motion module is fixedly equipped with a locking device for clamping the fiber coupling end clamping device. The fiber coupling end clamping device is supported on the material tray and slides with the material tray. The locking device is located below the fiber coupling end clamping device. The material tray is provided with a clearance opening for making way for the installation of the fiber coupling end clamping device. And / or, It also includes a claw-driven assembly, which is used to drive the fiber coupling end clamping device to release the clamped fiber.

6. The laser coupling device as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The locking device includes a second pneumatic gripper and two clamping blocks. Each clamping block is provided with a positioning pin, which is arranged at a distance from each other. The two clamping blocks are respectively fixed on two clamping block fixing seats, and the two clamping block fixing seats are respectively fixed on two guide rail sliders of the second pneumatic gripper. The second pneumatic gripper is fixed on the fiber threading motion module. The bottom of the fiber coupling end clamping device is provided with a locking block. The side of the locking block is provided with a positioning hole for cooperating with the clamping block. The locking block is located in the clearance opening of the material tray. And / or, The optical fiber coupling end clamping device includes a fixed jaw clamp and a movable jaw clamp. The fixed jaw clamp is fixedly mounted on a fixed clamp bracket, and the movable jaw clamp is fixedly mounted on a movable clamp bracket. The movable clamp bracket is fixedly connected to a slider, and the slider slides on a slide rail. The slide rail is fixed on the jaw clamp base plate. A spring is provided between the movable clamp bracket and a spring mounting plate on the jaw clamp base plate. The spring is used to apply force to the movable clamp bracket so that the movable jaw clamp and the fixed jaw clamp clamp the optical fiber. A first push plate is fixedly mounted on the movable clamp bracket. The claw push assembly includes an electric module and a second push plate. The second push plate is fixedly connected to the electric module. The electric module is used to drive the second push plate, causing the first push plate to move together, thereby driving the movable claw to move away from the fixed claw.

7. The laser coupling device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The fiber optic fixing assembly further includes a fiber optic tail fixing device for fixing the tail end of the fiber to be coupled. The photoelectric detection assembly includes a photodetector assembly and an integrating sphere. The integrating sphere is used to receive the optical signal transmitted by the fiber and output the optical signal to the photodetector assembly. The photodetector assembly is used to detect the optical power of the incident optical signal, convert it into an electrical signal and transmit it to the control unit. The light-incident end of the integrating sphere is provided with a docking interface, which is used to match the fiber optic tail fixing device. The integrating sphere is fixedly installed on a docking motion module. The docking motion module is connected to the control unit. The control unit drives the docking motion module to move, causing the integrating sphere to move back and forth, thereby realizing the docking and separation of its docking interface with the fiber optic tail fixing device on the tray.

8. The laser coupling device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The loading platform is used to place the material tray and drive the material tray to move, so that the laser to be coupled on each material clamp can be moved to the set working area. And / or, The optical fiber fixing assembly also includes an optical fiber storage device, which is located between the optical fiber coupling end clamping device and the optical fiber tail end fixing device, and is used to accommodate the optical fiber located between the optical fiber coupling end clamping device and the optical fiber tail end fixing device. And / or, The vision system includes a first vision module, the lens of which is vertically downward. And / or, The power-on module includes a power-on PCB board, which is fixedly mounted on the power-on motion module via a PCB bracket. The power-on motion module is used to drive the power-on PCB board to move, so that the power-on PCB board is electrically connected to the laser to be coupled in the working area.

9. A laser coupling method, characterized in that, Based on the laser coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, the laser coupling method includes: After the material tray is loaded, the drive loading table moves the material tray to move the first laser to be coupled to the preset working area, and performs the laser coupling process: Drive the photoelectric detection component to move so that it docks with the fiber optic tail fixing device in the working area; The drive power module moves to electrically connect with the laser to be coupled within the working area, providing power to the laser to be coupled. The drive fiber threading motion module moves the fiber coupling end clamping device in the working area, so that the fiber clamped on the fiber coupling end clamping device is threaded into the laser tube shell along a predetermined path. Receive and control the fiber coupling mechanism to enter the tube and clamp the fiber based on the fiber coupling end position information fed back by the vision system; After the fiber coupling mechanism completes the fiber clamping, the control claw push assembly runs, pushing the fiber coupling end clamping device to release the fiber it is holding. Receive and, based on the detection data fed back by the photoelectric detection component, drive the fiber coupling mechanism to perform coupling and light-finding motion until the coupling state meets the standard, thus completing the coupling alignment between the fiber and the coupling device inside the laser housing. Once the coupling process of the first laser to be coupled is completed, the loading platform is driven to move the tray to move the next laser to be coupled to the preset working area. The laser coupling process is repeated until all lasers to be coupled in the tray are coupled.

10. The laser coupling method as described in claim 9, characterized in that: Before coupling and finding the light, the following steps are also included: controlling the distance detection device to collect the distance from its ranging head to the coupling device inside the tube shell in the working area, and calculating the position parameters and angle parameters of the coupling device relative to the tube shell reference coordinates based on the distance; Based on the aforementioned angle parameters, the fiber coupling mechanism is controlled to perform attitude compensation on the fiber, so that the fiber axis is kept consistent with the actual angle of the coupling device. And / or, After completing the coupling alignment of the optical fiber and the coupling device inside the laser tube shell, the following steps are also included: driving the gantry assembly to move the dispensing module from the standby station to above the wiping module, and driving the wiping module and the gantry assembly to perform the needle wiping operation. After the adhesive application is completed, the drive gantry assembly moves the dispensing module to the coupling area and drives the dispensing module to apply adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device. After the dispensing is completed, the drive curing module cures the adhesive at the junction of the optical fiber and the coupling device, thus completing the coupling process of the laser to be coupled.

Images