Duplex Mechanical Fiber Switch Alignment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical fiber optic switches are costly and challenging to implement in large fan-out configurations due to the difficulty in achieving precise alignment for low insertion losses and high immunity against backscattering, especially when using the butt-coupling scheme.
Innovation Solution
A duplex mechanical fiber optic switch with a slider assembly and pin system that allows for physical alignment of input fibers with output fibers using standard connectors, enabling selective coupling with low insertion losses, high immunity to backscattering, and low cross-talk, without the need for lenses or beam collimators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a butt-coupling scheme is used to align input fiber with output fibers, then insertion loss is reduced, but manufacturing precision becomes extremely difficult to achieve in large fan-out switches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate coupling mechanism between the input fiber and output fibers. Instead of directly butt-coupling the input fiber to multiple output fibers (which requires extremely precise alignment), the invention uses a coupling structure that mediates the alignment process, making it feasible to achieve low insertion loss in large fan-out switches without requiring impossible manufacturing precision
2Object-affected harmful factors
If output fibers are fixed to a carrier with angled cuts to prevent backscattering, then immunity against backscattering is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a unified structure. The coupling mechanism is designed to simultaneously achieve light transmission, prevent backscattering, and maintain alignment, rather than requiring separate components for each function. This merging reduces overall device complexity while maintaining backscattering immunity
3Ease of manufacture
If standard fiber optical connectors are used to reduce cost, then ease of manufacture is improved, but alignment precision becomes difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary alignment features into the connector design. The coupling structure includes built-in alignment mechanisms that pre-position the fibers correctly before final connection, ensuring that standard connectors can be used without sacrificing alignment precision. This preliminary action compensates for the lower precision of standard connectors
Data Source
AI summary
A switch for selectively coupling light from two input fibers to a selected two of plurality of output optical fibers. The switch was designed to handle standard Fiber optical connectors which have been polished and meet the specifications for the optical performance. The duplex mechanical switch creates a method to physically switch two fibers (Duplex) to another two fibers (Duplex). The performance regarding insertion losses, back reflection, crosstalk, immunity against backscattering of light and insensitivity to the wavelength of the light is consistent with this mechanical switch.