Optical Connector Module Debris Receiving Portion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical connector modules experience light loss due to debris and air bubbles interposed between the optical fiber and the lens, particularly when using a ferrule, which complicates direct attachment of the optical fiber to the positioning device without ferrule.
Innovation Solution
An optical connector module with a transparent positioning device featuring a concave insertion portion and a debris receiving portion that accommodates scraping debris and air bubbles, ensuring they do not interfere with the optical path by extending radially from the insertion hole's interior surface, allowing direct attachment of the optical fiber without a ferrule.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a ferrule is used to attach the optical fiber to the positioning device, then the structural stability is improved, but the device complexity and light loss increase due to additional components and potential debris accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the ferrule component from the optical connector module, allowing the optical fiber to be attached directly to the positioning device. This extraction of the intermediate ferrule component simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining functional integrity through direct fiber-to-positioning-device attachment
2Device complexity
If the optical fiber is inserted directly into the positioning device without a ferrule, then the device complexity is reduced, but debris and air bubbles may be trapped between the optical fiber and lens causing light loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful effect of debris and air bubbles by providing a dedicated debris receiving portion that captures these contaminants during the insertion process. The harmful debris that would otherwise cause light loss is redirected into a designated receptacle, transforming a potential defect into a controlled feature
Solution Approach 2:
The debris receiving portion is pre-formed as an integral part of the positioning device structure, positioned to receive debris and air bubbles during the insertion process before they can interfere with the optical path. This preliminary structural arrangement prevents contamination of the critical fiber-to-lens interface
3Ease of operation
If the optical fiber scrapes the positioning device during insertion, then the optical fiber is guided into position, but scraping debris is generated that may be trapped between the optical fiber and lens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the harmful scraping debris generated during insertion into a controlled element by providing a dedicated debris receiving portion. The debris that results from the necessary scraping action is redirected into this receptacle, converting a harmful byproduct into a contained element that does not interfere with optical performance
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
Minimizes light loss by preventing debris and air bubbles from being trapped between the optical fiber and the lens, ensuring efficient light transmission.
Implementation Method 1
an optical connector module for coupling an optical signal to a photoelectric conversion element, a lens, and/or other target members
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an optical connector module in which an adhesive is interposed between a lens and a distal surface of an optical fiber, wherein the module includes a transparent positioning device and an optical fiber fixed in the positioning device. The positioning device has a lens provided to an end surface, a concave insertion portion into which the optical fiber is inserted and which is disposed so that the bottom surface in contact with the distal surface of the optical fiber is positioned opposite the lens, and a debris receiving portion that extends from the bottom surface in a radial direction of the optical fiber and has a surface continuous with the bottom surface.