Fusion Splicing Electrode Feedback for Precise Deterioration Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fusion splicing devices face challenges in accurately determining electrode deterioration, leading to unstable discharge due to factors like dirt accumulation, which current methods based on usage count fail to address with high precision.

Innovation Solution

A fusion splicing system and method that utilizes a feedback signal from discharge electrodes to determine electrode deterioration by comparing the state of the feedback signal with a control signal, allowing for precise assessment of electrode condition through monitoring and signal analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If electrode deterioration is determined based on usage count, then the determination process is simple, but the measurement precision is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of deterioration determinationVSAvoidaccuracy of electrode deterioration detection
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback by monitoring the discharge characteristics (current, voltage, power) during electrode operation and comparing them against predetermined thresholds. The feedback signal from the discharge circuit provides real-time information about electrode condition, enabling accurate deterioration detection without requiring complex manual inspection methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If feedback signal monitoring is implemented, then electrode deterioration can be accurately determined, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of electrode deterioration detectionVSAvoidcomplexity of signal monitoring system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The discharge circuit serves multiple functions: it provides discharge power to the electrodes, monitors discharge characteristics through feedback signals, and determines electrode deterioration status. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated monitoring components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving accurate deterioration detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Stability of the object's composition

If discharge stability is maintained, then fusion splicing quality improves, but electrode deterioration accumulates over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedischarge stabilityVSAvoidelectrode condition
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary detection of electrode deterioration by continuously monitoring discharge characteristics and comparing them against predetermined thresholds before the deterioration affects fusion splicing quality. This early detection allows for preventive maintenance, maintaining discharge stability while addressing electrode degradation issues before they become critical.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables accurate and efficient determination of electrode deterioration, ensuring stable discharge operations by identifying electrode degradation through feedback signal characteristics, thereby improving maintenance accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

discharge occurs by applying a voltage between a pair of electrodes, so that the two optical fibers are fused

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDischarge: Electric Arc

Implementation Method 2

discharge occurs by applying a voltage between a pair of electrodes, so that the two optical fibers are fused

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Data Source

PatentUS12461311B2Fusion splicing system, fusion splicing device, and deterioration determination method
Publication Date: 2025.11.04 SUMITOMO ELECTRIC OPTIFRONTIER CO LTD
  • US12461311B2 patent drawing
  • US12461311B2 patent drawing
  • US12461311B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fusion splicing system according to one embodiment includes: first and second electrodes that fusion-splice optical fibers by discharge; a fusion splicing device that has a discharge circuit that outputs a control signal to the first electrode and receives a feedback signal of the control signal from the second electrode; and a deterioration determination unit that determines from a state of the feedback signal whether or not the first electrode and the second electrode are deteriorated.