Adaptive Microscope Device for Multi-Fiber Connector Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber-optic connector inspection microscopes struggle to align the imaging axis with the center of each endface in multi-fiber connectors, as the imaging axis in existing devices moves along a circular track, failing to properly inspect endfaces arranged in a straight line.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive device with a supporting body, swinging lever, connecting piece, fitting tip, and adjustment driver, where the adjustment driver, typically a bevel wheel, moves the imaging axis in a straight line across the endfaces, allowing precise alignment with each fiber-optic endface through a connector adaptor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the imaging axis moves along a circular track relative to the fitting tip, then the device structure is simplified, but the imaging axis cannot be aligned with the center of every endface in a multi-fiber connector
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static circular track into a dynamic adjustable mechanism. The pendular arm can be rotated to different angles, and the bevel wheel can be adjusted to change the imaging axis position. This dynamic adjustment allows the imaging axis to align with multiple endfaces arranged in a straight line, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the imaging axis movement. Instead of following a fixed circular path, the imaging axis can be positioned at different angles and distances by adjusting the pendular arm rotation and bevel wheel position. This parameter change enables precise alignment with endfaces in a straight-line arrangement while maintaining a relatively simple device structure.
2Measurement precision
If the microscope field of view is small (0.3 mm×0.4 mm), then magnification is sufficient for detailed inspection, but the microscope must scan from one side to the other to inspect each endface individually
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment mechanisms (adjustment driver, pendular arm, bevel wheel) that enable rapid repositioning of the imaging axis. This dynamic capability allows the microscope to quickly scan across multiple endfaces by adjusting the imaging axis position, reducing the time required to inspect each endface individually while maintaining sufficient magnification for detailed inspection.
3Productivity
If multi-fiber connectors are placed in difficult-to-access locations, then connection density increases, but regular inspection and maintenance become challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal inspection device that can accommodate multi-fiber connectors in various locations and configurations. The adjustable imaging axis and connector interface design allow the device to reach and inspect connectors in difficult-to-access locations, maintaining high connection density while improving inspection accessibility through its adaptable structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for shifting the imaging axis of a microscope across the endfaces of a multi-fiber connector for inspecting the endfaces comprises: a supporting body attached to the optical tube of a microscope and having an extended portion; a swinging lever mounted at one end to the extended portion of the supporting body and rotatable on an axis perpendicular to the imaging axis of the microscope; a connection piece connecting between the swinging lever and a fitting tip; a bevel wheel fastened to the supporting body; and a torsion spring for pushing the swinging lever against a slanted surface of the bevel wheel. The bevel wheel is adapted to swing the swinging lever relative to the supporting body so that the imaging axis of the microscope is moved relative to the fitting tip to selectively align the imaging axis across the endfaces for inspection.