Fiber Optic Alignment Using Intermediate Force Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connection systems face challenges in achieving stable insertion loss performance, particularly in aligning optical fibers of ferrule-less connectors, which can lead to flexing of fiber end tips and increased insertion loss.
Innovation Solution
The development of a fiber alignment system that applies contact pressure directly at or close to the fiber end tips of ferrule-less fiber optic connectors, using a contact member and intermediate force transfer members to ensure precise alignment and stabilize insertion loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If ferrule-less fiber optic connectors are used, then device complexity is reduced, but fiber end tips may flex leading to increased insertion loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate force transfer member that acts as a mediator between the contact member and the fiber end tips. This intermediary component transfers the contact pressure from the contact member to the fiber end tips, ensuring stable alignment without requiring complex ferrule structures. The force transfer member enables reliable force transmission while maintaining the simplicity of ferrule-less connectors.
2Manufacturing precision
If contact pressure is applied to align fiber end tips, then alignment precision is improved, but fiber end tips may flex upward causing insertion loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fiber end tips from the alignment groove and applies contact pressure directly to them through the contact member and force transfer member. This extraction approach allows precise control of contact pressure at the fiber end tips themselves, improving alignment precision while the controlled force application prevents unwanted flexing that would degrade reliability.
3Manufacturing precision
If an alignment structure is used to position fiber end tips, then alignment precision is improved, but the structure may not prevent fiber end tip flexing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies contact pressure to the fiber end tips before they are fully positioned in the alignment groove. This preliminary action stabilizes the fiber end tips in the desired alignment position, preventing them from flexing upward later. The force transfer member ensures this stabilizing pressure is applied at the critical stage before final positioning.
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
The proposed solution effectively prevents fiber end tips from flexing, thereby stabilizing insertion loss along the entire alignment system, enhancing the reliability and performance of fiber optic connections.
Implementation Method 1
spring load through a contact member to co-axially align optical fibers
Implementation Method 2
contact pressure directly at or close to the fiber end tips
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems for co-axially aligning first and second optical fibers to provide an optical coupling between the first and second optical fibers. A fiber engagement element is used to force the first and second optical fibers into an alignment groove.