Angled Optical Fiber End Face for Signal Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical systems face challenges in efficiently and cost-effectively coupling optical signals between optical fibers and photo devices, requiring complex and expensive manufacturing processes for precise assembly.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus involves cutting the end of an optical fiber at a defined acute angle to produce internal reflection or refraction, allowing for efficient coupling of optical signals between optical fibers and photo devices, with the end surface optionally coated with a material of specific refractive index to control the angle and efficiency of signal transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex mount structures are used to interface photo devices with optical fibers, then optical signal coupling effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the coupling function from complex mount structures and implements it through a simplified fiber end face geometry. By taking out the coupling functionality from mechanical mounts and embedding it in the fiber end face angle, the system achieves effective optical coupling without complex additional structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The angled end face of the optical fiber serves as an intermediary element that mediates between the optical fiber and photo device. This angled interface acts as an optical mediator that enables effective signal coupling through controlled reflection, replacing the need for complex mechanical coupling structures.
2Reliability
If complex mount structures with precise assembly are used, then optical signal coupling effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The angled fiber end face configuration enables self-alignment and self-coupling functionality. The geometry of the angled end face inherently guides the optical reflection path to the photo device, eliminating the need for complex precision assembly procedures and making the system self-configuring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameter of the fiber end face from a standard perpendicular cut to a specific angled configuration. This parameter change fundamentally alters the optical path and coupling mechanism, enabling effective coupling through geometric design rather than complex mechanical assembly.
3Ease of manufacture
If standard perpendicular fiber end faces are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but optical signal coupling efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the fiber end face angle parameter from the standard 0 degrees (perpendicular) to a specific non-zero angle. This parameter change optimizes the optical reflection characteristics, directing more optical energy toward the photo device and reducing coupling losses while maintaining manufacturability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach simplifies the manufacturing process and enhances the efficiency of optical signal transfer by providing an easily manufacturable interface that effectively directs optical signals between optical fibers and photo devices, reducing costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the end surface is configured to produce internal reflection of an incident optical signal propagating within the fiber from a distal end thereof
Implementation Method 2
the end surface is configured to refract an incident optical signal propagating within the fiber from a distal end thereof
Implementation Method 3
a photo device situated proximate the proximal end of the optical fiber, and configured to receive the reflected optical signal for conversion into an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and method for optically interfacing optical fibers with photo devices. In one implementation, the optical fiber comprises an end surface configured to produce internal reflection of an incident optical signal propagating within the fiber from a distal end, and a photo device configured to receive the reflected optical signal. In another implementation, the optical fiber comprises an end surface configured to produce internal reflection of an incident optical signal generated by a photo device for propagation within the fiber towards a distal end. In another implementation, the optical fiber comprises an end surface configured to refract an incident optical signal propagating within the fiber from a distal end, and a photo device configured to receive the refracted optical signal. In another implementation, the optical fiber comprises an end surface configured to refract an incident optical signal generated by a photo device for propagation within the fiber towards a distal end.