Optical Cable Cladding Light Sensor for Coupling Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical fiber cables face inefficiencies in coupling laser light due to radiation components being decoupled into the cladding, leading to increased divergence and loss, and existing monitoring solutions require separate devices and complex setups for accurate adjustment and monitoring.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a cladding light sensor and deflection optics in the coupling plug to measure and redirect cladding light for optimal coupling, along with scattered light sensors for continuous monitoring, allowing for real-time adjustment and data storage for operational optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate measuring device is used to detect cladding light, then measurement capability is provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the cladding light sensor directly into the output connector housing, merging the measurement function with the existing connector structure. This eliminates the need for separate measuring devices while maintaining measurement capability, thereby reducing device complexity without sacrificing measurement precision
2Productivity
If cladding light is not monitored, then device complexity is reduced, but fiber coupling efficiency cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The output connector performs self-diagnosis by integrating the cladding light sensor into its own housing, allowing it to autonomously monitor its own coupling efficiency. This self-service approach enables optimization of fiber coupling without requiring complex external monitoring systems
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor provides real-time feedback on cladding light levels, which can be used to adjust and optimize the fiber coupling process. This feedback mechanism enables continuous optimization of coupling efficiency without proportionally increasing system complexity
3Measurement precision
If the cladding light sensor is placed in the immediate vicinity of the mode stripper, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the coupled-out power must be cooled away in this area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the output connector housing as an intermediary structure that positions the sensor to receive cladding light without requiring direct placement near the mode stripper. This intermediary approach allows measurement while avoiding the thermal management issues associated with placing sensors in high-heat areas
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 solution minimizes cladding light and adjusts coupling optics for minimal divergence and loss, enabling efficient and continuous monitoring of optical fiber cables, ensuring optimal performance and reducing unplanned downtime through automatic detection of deviations from reference values.
Implementation Method 1
at least one cladding light sensor arranged behind the output-side fiber end for measuring cladding light emerging from the fiber cladding at the output-side fiber end
Implementation Method 2
The output connector features an integrated cladding light sensor for measuring cladding light emitted from the front end, eliminating the need for a separate measuring device
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
In an optical cable (1) with an optical fiber (2), which has a fiber core (3) and a fiber cladding (4), an output coupling plug (6) disposed at an output coupling-side fiber end (2b) of the optical fiber (2) comprises, according to the invention, at least one cladding light sensor (8), disposed behind the output coupling-side fiber end (2b), for measuring cladding light (9) which emerges on the end side from the fiber cladding (4) at the output coupling-side fiber end (2b).