Angled Optical Polishing Fixture With Movable Clamp Pad
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber polisher fixtures require complex clamping assemblies that are time-consuming to load and unload, and often necessitate returning the entire fixture for repairs when a single component needs replacement, disrupting the polishing process.
Innovation Solution
A fixture with a movable clamp pad and angled connector slot design allows for easy insertion and removal of optical connectors at an angle, enabling precise polishing of multiple connectors simultaneously and reducing the need for extensive operator manipulation, with a clamping assembly that includes a clamp pad and screw system allowing for efficient alignment and pressure application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If complex clamping assemblies are used to hold connectors at precise angles and depths, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector holder is divided into a base portion and a movable clamp portion that can independently adjust. The clamp portion can be separately positioned and secured, allowing precise control of connector placement without requiring complex manipulation of the entire assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp portion is designed to be movable relative to the base portion, transitioning between a loading position (where connectors can be easily inserted) and a clamping position (where connectors are securely held at precise angles). This dynamic adjustment simplifies operation while maintaining precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex clamping assemblies are used to secure connectors, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is segmented into independent base and clamp portions, each performing specific functions. This modular design reduces overall complexity while maintaining the precision required for connector positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The base portion provides multiple functions: supporting the clamp portion, positioning connectors at precise angles, and facilitating easy loading/unloading. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional complex components.
3Reliability
If the entire fixture must be sent for repairs when a single component needs replacement, then reliability is maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to extensive downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed as a modular assembly with replaceable clamp portions. When a clamp portion wears or malfunctions, only that specific component needs replacement, not the entire fixture. This maintains reliability while minimizing downtime and preserving productivity.
4Manufacturing precision
If extensive manipulation by operator is required to load and unload connectors, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable clamp portion allows operators to quickly transition between loading and clamping positions, reducing the time required to load and unload connectors while maintaining precise positioning through the secured clamping action.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical polishing fixture for securing one or more optical connectors can include a fixture base having a connector slot for receiving an optical connector and a clamping assembly mounted to the fixture base proximate the connector slot. The connector slot can be defined by at least one side wall defining a side wall plane and the clamping assembly can include a clamp pad moveable relative to the fixture base between a clamping position and a loading position. The clamp pad may move relative to the fixture base at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to one of (i) a top surface of the fixture base, (ii) a plane perpendicular the side wall plane, or (iii) a plane defined by a portion of the fixture base top surface proximate to the connector slot.