Optical cable circumference surface detection device

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of optical cable circumferential surface detection devices, it is related to optical cable detection technical field.The device includes rack, self-centering mechanism, image detection mechanism and shell.Two sides of rack are provided with two groups of self-centering mechanism, for automatically centering different diameter optical cable.Two groups of self-centering mechanism are provided with image detection mechanism between, including detection support, camera assembly and lighting assembly.Self-centering mechanism includes self-centering support, at least three groups of wheel groove are evenly provided on it along circumferential direction, wheel frame is slidably matched in wheel groove, wheel frame one end is hinged centering wheel, and the other end is connected with groove end cover by first elastic member.Image detection mechanism includes detection support, camera groove, circuit board groove and wire groove are set on it, camera support is set in camera groove, camera assembly and lighting assembly are installed on camera support.The utility model can automatically adapt to different diameter optical cable, realize the surface detection of no blind area, simple and reliable structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of optical cable testing technology, specifically to an optical cable circumferential surface testing device. Background Technology

[0002] As the core carrier of communication networks, the quality of the outer sheath of optical cables directly affects the stability and security of signal transmission. During production, due to factors such as damage to extrusion molds, uneven wear of guide rollers, fluctuations in cooling water tanks, or changes in winding and unwinding tension, the outer sheath is prone to defects such as scratches, indentations, ripples, and pits. These defects not only affect the appearance but also reduce mechanical strength, becoming channels for moisture intrusion, leading to increased fiber attenuation or even breakage, threatening the lifespan of the optical cable and communication security.

[0003] Currently, the industry mainly relies on two detection methods: one is online manual sampling, where operators inspect by eye. However, optical cables have a cylindrical structure, and fixed positions can only observe part of the circumference surface, resulting in blind spots. Furthermore, they are prone to missed detections due to fatigue, leading to poor consistency and reliability in detection. The other method is offline laboratory analysis, which uses instruments such as microscopes and profilometers for detection. Although this method is highly accurate, it is cumbersome, time-consuming, and damages samples. It is only suitable for post-process analysis and cannot achieve real-time monitoring of the production process.

[0004] It is worth noting that defects caused by poor production equipment condition (such as mold scratches or insufficient ellipticity of guide wheels) often have periodic characteristics and are key indicators for assessing the operating status of the production line. However, existing methods are not sensitive enough to such defects, making it difficult to detect process problems in a timely manner. They are often only discovered after a large number of continuous scraps are generated, resulting in significant losses of raw materials and working hours.

[0005] Although the existing patent CN215823697U uses a ring light source and multiple cameras to acquire images, which solves the problem of cable surface inspection to a certain extent, it still has obvious shortcomings: the support device needs to be manually adjusted and replaced, and the automatic centering efficiency is low when switching between optical cables of different diameters; the image acquisition components are simply arranged, and the detection accuracy for optical cables with high surface quality requirements is insufficient; and it lacks a dedicated self-centering mechanism, so the optical cable is prone to deviation during operation, which affects the detection accuracy. Utility Model Content

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the defects in the existing technology and provide a device for detecting the circumferential surface of optical cables.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this utility model is to design a device for detecting the circumferential surface of an optical cable, including a frame. Two sets of self-centering mechanisms are arranged on both sides of the frame, and an image detection mechanism is arranged between the two sets of self-centering mechanisms. A housing is provided outside the self-centering mechanism and the image detection mechanism. The self-centering mechanism includes a self-centering bracket, on which at least three sets of wheel grooves are evenly arranged along the circumferential direction. A wheel frame is slidably fitted within each wheel groove, and a groove end cap is provided outside the wheel groove. A centering wheel is hinged to one end of the wheel frame, and the other end of the wheel frame... A first elastic element is provided between one end and the end cap of the slot. The image detection mechanism includes a detection bracket. At least three sets of camera slots are provided on the detection bracket along the circumferential direction. A circuit board slot is provided between at least one set of adjacent camera slots. A wire slot for wiring is provided between the camera slot and the circuit board slot. A camera bracket is provided in the camera slot. A camera component and an illumination component are provided on the camera bracket. A circuit board is provided in the circuit board slot. The camera component and the illumination component are electrically connected to the circuit board. Power lines and signal lines are connected to the circuit board.

[0008] Furthermore, it also includes a guiding mechanism located near the self-centering mechanism at the fiber optic cable entry point. This guiding mechanism includes a guide frame with at least three sets of guide wheels hinged to one end. When the fiber optic cable enters the detection device, it may wobble or jitter, affecting image acquisition quality. The guiding mechanism effectively guides the fiber optic cable smoothly into the detection area, reducing lateral sway and longitudinal jitter. The circumferential distribution of at least three sets of guide wheels forms a stable guiding channel, ensuring the fiber optic cable always maintains the correct trajectory.

[0009] Optionally, at least three sets of camera slots are arranged along the circumference of the detection bracket and distributed along the axial direction of the detection bracket. Multi-angle image acquisition can effectively avoid missed defects caused by lighting or angle issues. Axial distribution can avoid obstruction between camera components and mutual interference between lighting components.

[0010] Furthermore, an adjustment bracket is also provided within the camera slot, and an adjustment bolt is provided on the adjustment bracket. The camera bracket has threaded holes, and the adjustment bolt engages with the threaded holes. This design of the adjustment bracket and adjustment bolt enables fine-tuning of the camera component's position, allowing precise control of the camera's shooting angle and focal length. The threaded adjustment mechanism has a self-locking function, ensuring that the adjusted position remains stable over a long period.

[0011] Furthermore, the circuit board is electrically connected to an audible and visual alarm for alerting users. The alarm provides intuitive equipment status indication, facilitating remote monitoring of equipment operation by operators. Upon detecting a defect, it immediately emits an audible and visual signal to remind operators to address the issue promptly.

[0012] Preferably, the centering wheel has a V-shaped or arc-shaped rim, and its surface is covered with a rubber or polyurethane coating. The V-shaped or arc-shaped rim design allows for better conformation to the surface of optical cables of different diameters, providing more stable support. The rubber or polyurethane coating has appropriate elasticity and a coefficient of friction, ensuring effective centering while preventing scratches on the optical cable surface. The cushioning effect of the coating effectively reduces vibration and noise during equipment operation.

[0013] Furthermore, a heat dissipation device is also installed within the circuit board slot. Circuit boards and lighting components generate a significant amount of heat during prolonged operation; failure to dissipate this heat promptly will affect the lifespan of electronic components and system stability. The heat dissipation device ensures the circuit board operates within a suitable temperature range, improving equipment reliability. Effective heat dissipation also prevents degradation in image acquisition and transmission performance due to excessively high temperatures. This further extends the service life of the circuit board and its components, reducing equipment maintenance costs.

[0014] Furthermore, heat dissipation fins are provided on the outer surface of the housing. These fins significantly increase the heat dissipation area of ​​the housing, improving overall heat dissipation efficiency. Together with the internal heat dissipation device, they form a complete thermal management system, ensuring that all components of the equipment operate at optimal temperatures.

[0015] Preferably, the camera component is a webcam. Industrial webcams offer high image quality and stability, meeting the demands of precision inspection. Furthermore, standardized webcam interfaces facilitate equipment maintenance and upgrades. Finally, mature industrial webcam products ensure the reliability and stability of the inspection system.

[0016] Preferably, the lighting component is an LED chip. Optical cable surface inspection requires stable and uniform lighting conditions. LED chips have the advantages of long lifespan, low energy consumption, and low heat generation, making them suitable for long-term continuous operation. Furthermore, the stable brightness of the LED light source helps ensure consistent image quality.

[0017] The advantages and beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows: 1. By using multiple camera components evenly arranged along the circumference, combined with a specially designed lighting system, omnidirectional coverage inspection of the optical cable's circumference surface is achieved, completely eliminating blind spots. The symmetrical arrangement of two sets of self-centering mechanisms, along with an elastic pre-tensioning mechanism, enables automatic centering of the optical cable, adapting to the inspection needs of optical cables with diameters ranging from 15-30mm, without requiring manual adjustment of positioning.

[0018] 2. Employing an industrial-grade camera and high-brightness LED lighting, along with a specialized image processing algorithm, it can identify micron-level surface defects, including scratches, pits, ripples, and other types of defects.

[0019] 3. An integrated audible and visual alarm system immediately issues a warning upon detecting a defect. It supports integration with the production line PLC system for real-time uploading and analysis of quality data. The camera assembly features an adjustable design, allowing for precise adjustments to meet different inspection requirements and adapt to the inspection needs of optical cables with varying surface characteristics. Its modular design also facilitates maintenance and replacement.

[0020] 4. By selecting appropriate camera and lighting components, it can adapt to different working environments (real-time monitoring during production, offline laboratory sampling analysis, and laying of optical cables at construction sites), making it widely applicable. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the detection device of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the detection device of this utility model; Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the detection device of this utility model; Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the detection device of this utility model; Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the self-centering mechanism of the detection device of this utility model; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the image detection mechanism of the detection device of this utility model; Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the image detection mechanism of the detection device of this utility model.

[0022] In the diagram: 1. Frame; 2. Self-centering mechanism; 201. Self-centering bracket; 202. Wheel groove; 203. Wheel frame; 204. Groove end cap; 205. Centering wheel; 206. First elastic element; 3. Image detection mechanism; 301. Detection bracket; 302. Camera groove; 303. Circuit board groove; 304. Camera bracket; 305. Camera assembly; 306. Lighting assembly; 307. Circuit board; 308. Power cord; 309. Signal line; 310. Wire groove; 311. Adjustment frame; 312. Adjustment bolt; 313. Threaded hole; 4. Housing; 5. Guide mechanism; 501. Guide frame; 502. Guide wheel; 6. Audible and visual alarm; 7. Heat dissipation device; 8. Heat dissipation fins. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The specific embodiments of this utility model will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this utility model and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0024] according to Figures 1-3As shown, this utility model is a device for detecting the circumferential surface of an optical cable, including a frame 1. Two sets of self-centering mechanisms 2 are arranged on both sides of the frame 1, and an image detection mechanism 3 is arranged between the two sets of self-centering mechanisms 2. A housing 4 is arranged outside the self-centering mechanism 2 and the image detection mechanism 3. The self-centering mechanism 2 includes a self-centering bracket 201. At least three sets of wheel grooves 202 are evenly arranged on the self-centering bracket 201 along the circumferential direction. A wheel frame 203 is slidably fitted in the wheel groove 202. A groove end cap 204 is arranged outside the wheel groove 202. A centering wheel 205 is hinged to one end of the wheel frame 203. A first elastic element 20 is arranged between the other end of the wheel frame 203 and the groove end cap 204. 6. The image detection mechanism 3 includes a detection bracket 301. At least three sets of camera slots 302 are arranged along the circumferential direction on the detection bracket 301. A circuit board slot 303 is arranged between at least one set of adjacent camera slots 302. A wire slot 310 for wiring is arranged between the camera slots 302 and the circuit board slot 303. A camera bracket 304 is arranged in the camera slot 302. A camera component 305 and an illumination component 306 are arranged on the camera bracket 304. A circuit board 307 is arranged in the circuit board slot 303. The camera component 305 and the illumination component 306 are electrically connected to the circuit board 307. A power line 308 and a signal line 309 are connected to the circuit board 307.

[0025] The frame 1 is bolted to both ends with two sets of self-centering mechanisms 2. The bottom of the frame 1 has four mounting holes for bolting to other equipment or the foundation. The two sets of self-centering mechanisms 2 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the frame 1, forming the entrance and exit of the detection channel. Between the two sets of self-centering mechanisms 2, the image detection mechanism 3 is bolted to the self-centering mechanism 2. The central axis of the detection bracket 301 of the image detection mechanism 3 coincides with the central axis of the self-centering mechanism 2, ensuring that the optical cable can pass smoothly through the detection area. The housing 4 is a split structure, connected by hinges or bolts to form an openable outer cover, completely enclosing the self-centering mechanism 2 and the image detection mechanism 3. Sealing strips are provided on the edges of the housing 4, and holes are provided on the housing 4 for the audible and visual alarm 6, as well as the power cord 308 and signal cord 309 to pass through.

[0026] according to Figure 4As shown, the self-centering bracket 201 is fixedly connected to the end flange of the frame 1 by bolts evenly distributed around its circumference. Three wheel grooves 202 are evenly distributed along the inner circumference of the self-centering bracket 201, with an included angle of 120 degrees between adjacent grooves. The wheel frame 203 is embedded in the wheel groove 202, achieving radial sliding fit through a T-slot structure. A first elastic element 206 (preferably a spring) is provided between the outer end of the wheel frame 203 and the groove end cap 204, forming an elastic pre-tightening mechanism. The centering wheel 205 is hinged to the inner end of the wheel frame 203 by a pin, with both ends of the pin fixed by elastic retaining rings. The rims of the three centering wheels 205 together form an optical cable channel, which can adapt to optical cables of different diameters under the action of the elastic element. The wheel surface of the centering wheel 205 is covered with a rubber or polyurethane coating.

[0027] according to Figures 6-7 As shown, the detection bracket 301 has a ring structure and is fixedly connected to the end plate of the self-centering bracket 201 by bolts. Three camera slots 302 are evenly distributed along the circumference of the detection bracket 301, with circuit board slots 303 positioned between adjacent camera slots. The camera bracket 304 is fixed within the camera slots 302 by bolts, or slidably fitted within them. Its adjustment can be fine-tuned using three sets of adjusting bolts, thereby changing the distance between the camera assembly 305 and the optical cable under test, suitable for adjusting when there are significant differences in the diameter of the optical cables. The camera assembly 305 and the illumination assembly 306 are fixedly connected to the camera bracket 304 via dedicated interfaces (threaded connections). The circuit board 307 is installed within the circuit board slot 303 and fixed by bolts. All cables of the camera assembly 305 and the illumination assembly 306 converge to the circuit board 307 via wire channels 310. Power lines 308 and signal lines 309 are led out from the circuit board, passing through the waterproof connector of the housing 4 to connect to the outside.

[0028] according to Figure 1 As shown, the guide mechanism 5 is installed at the optical cable inlet and is fixedly connected to the frame 1 via a bracket. Three guide wheels 502 are connected to the guide frame 501 via hinge shafts, forming a funnel-shaped guide channel.

[0029] The audible and visual alarm 6 is mounted on the housing 4 and connected to the circuit board 307 via a cable. The heat dissipation device 7 is preferably a cooling fan, which is installed on both sides of the circuit board slot 303 to form a forced air cooling system.

[0030] This device is mainly used in three working scenarios: 1. Real-time monitoring during the production process (high speed, high-precision detection is not performed at this time): By installing this device at the end of the optical cable production process, it is used to detect defects caused by poor condition of production equipment (such as mold scratches, insufficient ellipticity of guide wheels), thereby assessing the operating status of the production line, enabling timely detection and handling, and reducing the loss of raw materials and working hours.

[0031] 2. Offline laboratory sampling analysis (slower speed, high-precision testing is performed at this time): By threading the optical cable sample through this device, high-precision acquisition of the circumference of the sample optical cable is achieved, thereby enabling accurate analysis.

[0032] 3. Fiber optic cable laying at the construction site (moderate speed, combining speed and high-precision detection): By installing this device at the fiber optic cable laying entrance, the outer circumferential surface can be inspected before the fiber optic cable is laid, thus enabling timely detection of problems before laying.

[0033] The working principle of this device is as follows: When the optical cable enters the device from the inlet, it first passes through the guide mechanism 5. Three guide wheels 502 guide the optical cable to the center of the detection area and complete the initial centering. Then the optical cable enters the self-centering mechanism 2 at the front end. Under the action of the first elastic element 206, the three centering wheels 205 automatically adapt to the diameter of the optical cable and accurately center it, ensuring that the optical cable axis coincides with the central axis of the detection mechanism.

[0034] The aligned optical cable enters the image detection area. Three illumination components 306 operate simultaneously, providing a uniform and shadowless illumination environment for the cable surface. Correspondingly, three camera components 305 synchronously acquire images of the cable surface from different angles, ensuring coverage of the entire circumference of the cable. The camera components employ a global shutter, enabling the acquisition of clear images even during continuous cable movement.

[0035] The acquired image signal is transmitted to circuit board 307 via cable. Then it is transmitted to an external acquisition device (industrial computer) via signal line 309 for image processing.

[0036] Image acquisition and processing (based on existing technology, only briefly described here) includes: image preprocessing: noise filtering, contrast enhancement, and image normalization; frequency domain transformation: performing a fast Fourier transform on the image to convert the spatial domain image into a frequency domain signal; feature enhancement: applying bandpass filters of specific frequency bands to enhance periodic defect features and suppress random noise; defect detection: identifying defect features such as scratches and dents through edge detection and morphological analysis; classification and decision-making: classifying and assessing the severity of defects based on their geometric features and distribution patterns.

[0037] When a defect is detected, the system immediately activates the audible and visual alarm 6, issuing a corresponding warning signal. Simultaneously, the defect information is uploaded to the higher-level monitoring system via the communication interface. In online applications, a marking device can also be triggered to mark the defect location in real time. The optical cable continues to move forward, maintained stable by the self-centering mechanism 2 at the rear, until it completely passes through the detection area. Throughout the process, the device achieves continuous, blind-spot-free detection of the optical cable surface.

[0038] To improve testing accuracy and reduce noise, two sets of this equipment can be used simultaneously, mounted on the same optical cable along the optical cable axis in the front-to-back direction for simultaneous testing.

[0039] according to Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, at least three sets of camera slots 302 are arranged along the circumference of the detection bracket 301 and distributed along the axial direction of the detection bracket 301. Since the diameter of optical cables is generally quite thin, axially distributing the three sets of camera components 305 is prone to interference, and mutual interference may also occur between the three sets of illumination components 306, leading to a reduction in the acquisition effect of the camera components 305. Therefore, this solution distributes the three sets of camera components 305 evenly along the circumference of the optical cable and uniformly along the axial direction of the optical cable to reduce interference between the camera components 305 and the illumination components 306.

[0040] according to Figures 6-7 As shown, an adjustment bracket 311 is also provided inside the camera slot 302. An adjustment bolt 312 is provided on the adjustment bracket 311, and a threaded hole 313 is provided on the camera bracket 304. The adjustment bolt 312 engages with the threaded hole 313. Generally, for optical cable inspections with small diameter differences, camera position adjustment is not required; the camera's focal length adjustment is sufficient. However, for optical cable inspections with large diameter differences, adjustment is necessary. During adjustment, a wrench or similar tool is used to rotate the adjustment bolt 312. Because the adjustment bolt 312 is located on the camera slot 302, its position does not change during rotation, similar to a lead screw. During rotation, the camera bracket 304, which is fitted above through the threaded hole 313, will slowly move up and down within the camera slot 302. The adjustment bolt 312 used here needs to be highly precise to achieve fine-tuning.

[0041] A heat dissipation device 7 is also provided inside the circuit board slot 303. Heat dissipation fins 8 are provided on the outer surface of the housing 4. The heat dissipation fins 8 greatly increase the heat dissipation area of ​​the housing and improve the overall heat dissipation efficiency. Together with the internal heat dissipation device 7, they form a complete thermal management system, ensuring that all components of the equipment operate at optimal temperatures.

[0042] The camera component 305 is a camera. The camera is preferably 2 megapixels, with a global shutter, monochrome spectrum, GigE interface, and 30fps (the frame rate is determined by the speed of the optical cable movement, generally 15fps~60fps). When selecting a camera, it is also necessary to consider the application scenario. For example, if the equipment is used for real-time monitoring of the production process, an industrial camera suitable for faster optical cable movement speeds should be selected, mainly for detecting defects caused by poor equipment condition. When applied to laboratory analysis, a high-resolution industrial camera can be used to achieve high-precision detection.

[0043] The lighting component 306 is an LED lamp bead. Preferably, multiple groups of LED lamp beads are used in combination to achieve a shadowless lighting effect and better highlight surface defect features. The LED lamp beads are preferably arranged in a ring around the lens of their respective cameras or in a symmetrical lateral arrangement. The lighting light is preferably low-angle grazing light or diffused light to highlight the texture and uneven damage on the surface of the optical cable. The brightness and on / off state of each lighting unit can be independently controlled. The LED lamp beads are preferably cool white light (6000K-6500K), color rendering index >80 (Ra), with a diffuser plate, PWM dimming, and 24V power supply.

[0044] The bolts, nuts, screws, welding, and other components used in fixing and installing parts to connect two or more parts are all known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here. Similarly, components such as hinge shafts that require bearings or lubrication are also known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here. The frame, bracket, and other components described in this article are adjusted according to the interrelationships between the components, with the main purpose of preventing interference between different components.

[0045] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the technical principles of the present utility model, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A device for detecting the circumferential surface of an optical cable, characterized in that, The system includes a frame (1), on both sides of which are two sets of self-centering mechanisms (2), and between which is an image detection mechanism (3). A housing (4) is provided on the outer sides of the self-centering mechanisms (2) and the image detection mechanism (3). Each self-centering mechanism (2) includes a self-centering bracket (201), on which at least three sets of wheel grooves (202) are evenly arranged along the circumferential direction. A wheel frame (203) is slidably fitted within each wheel groove (202). A groove end cap (204) is provided on the outer side of each wheel groove (202). A centering wheel (205) is hinged to one end of each wheel frame (203), and a first elastic element (206) is provided between the other end of the wheel frame (203) and the groove end cap (204). The image detection mechanism (3)... The device includes a detection bracket (301), on which at least three sets of camera slots (302) are arranged along the circumferential direction. At least one set of adjacent camera slots (302) is provided with a circuit board slot (303). A wire slot (310) for wiring is provided between the camera slots (302) and the circuit board slots (303). A camera bracket (304) is provided in the camera slots (302). A camera component (305) and an illumination component (306) are provided on the camera bracket (304). A circuit board (307) is provided in the circuit board slots (303). The camera component (305) and the illumination component (306) are both electrically connected to the circuit board (307). A power line (308) and a signal line (309) are connected to the circuit board (307).

2. The optical cable circumferential surface detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a guide mechanism (5) located on one side of the self-centering mechanism (2) near the optical cable entry point. The guide mechanism (5) includes a guide frame (501), one end of which is hinged with at least three sets of guide wheels (502).

3. The optical cable circumferential surface detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least three sets of the camera slots (302) are arranged along the circumferential direction of the detection bracket (301) and distributed along the axial direction of the detection bracket (301).

4. The optical cable circumferential surface detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, An adjustment bracket (311) is also provided inside the camera slot (302). An adjustment bolt (312) is provided on the adjustment bracket (311). A threaded hole (313) is provided on the camera bracket (304). The adjustment bolt (312) cooperates with the threaded hole (313).

5. The optical cable circumferential surface detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The circuit board (307) is also electrically connected to an audible and visual alarm (6) for alerting.

6. The optical cable circumferential surface detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rim of the centering wheel (205) is V-shaped or arc-shaped, and the wheel surface is covered with a rubber or polyurethane coating.

7. The optical cable circumferential surface detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A heat dissipation device (7) is also provided inside the circuit board slot (303).

8. The optical cable circumferential surface detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer surface of the housing (4) is provided with heat dissipation fins (8).

9. The optical cable circumferential surface detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The camera component (305) is a camera.

10. The optical cable circumferential surface detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lighting component (306) is an LED lamp bead.

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