Optical Fiber Cleave Angle Measurement Using Reflected Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for aligning optical fibers with microlens arrays and measuring cleave angles are inadequate, particularly due to tight alignment tolerances and manufacturing variations in optical fibers, which can lead to inefficiencies and damage during the alignment process.
Innovation Solution
The use of an MLA alignment system with tilt and position sensing devices, a beam splitter, and a collecting lens to actively align optical fibers with microlens arrays, and a cleave angle measurement system with an optical fiber channel, image sensor, and light source to accurately measure cleave angles with precision down to 0.5 degrees or less.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional alignment methods are used for optical fibers with microlens arrays, then the alignment process is simple, but the alignment precision is insufficient due to tight alignment tolerances and manufacturing variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment methods with an optical-based alignment system that uses light beams, position sensing devices, and tilt sensing devices to achieve precise alignment. The system uses optical feedback rather than mechanical adjustment to achieve sub-micron alignment precision required for tight tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment system incorporates position sensing devices and tilt sensing devices that provide real-time feedback on the optical fiber's position and orientation relative to the microlens array. This feedback enables automated adjustment and compensation for manufacturing variations, achieving high alignment precision.
2Measurement precision
If traditional cleave angle measurement methods are used, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision is insufficient with accuracy limited to several degrees
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or visual cleave angle measurement methods with an optical measurement system that uses light reflection, beam splitters, and image sensors. This optical system achieves measurement precision of 0.5 degrees or better by detecting the reflected light pattern from the cleaved fiber end.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system uses a beam splitter and collecting lens as intermediaries to redirect and focus the light reflected from the cleaved fiber end onto the image sensor. This intermediary optical path enables precise angular measurement through light pattern analysis.
3Productivity
If manual alignment procedures are used, then the equipment cost is low, but the alignment time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is designed to perform self-alignment through automated feedback control. The position and tilt sensing devices continuously monitor alignment status and automatically adjust the fiber position without requiring constant manual intervention, thereby increasing productivity while managing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary alignment measurements and calculations before final positioning. The beam splitter and sensing devices pre-assess the fiber's position and orientation, allowing for optimized adjustment paths that reduce overall alignment time and improve productivity.
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 system provides precise alignment of optical fibers with microlens arrays and accurate measurement of cleave angles, compensating for manufacturing variations and improving the efficiency and reliability of optical fiber assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
reflecting a second portion of the light beam from the first end of the optical fiber off of the beam splitter
Implementation Method 2
transmitting a first portion of the light beam from the first end of the optical fiber through the beam splitter
Implementation Method 3
reflecting a second portion of the light beam from the first end of the optical fiber off of the beam splitter and through the collecting lens before reaching the tilt sensing device
Implementation Method 4
optical fibers have structures that support propagation of light by way of total internal reflection
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for measuring a cleave angle of an optical fiber using a cleave angle measurement system is provided herein. In an aspect, a method for measuring a cleave angle of an optical fiber may include providing a cleave angle measurement system. The cleave angle measurement system may include an optical fiber channel, an image sensor, and a light source. The method may include placing an optical fiber having a cleaved end into the optical fiber channel. The method may include determining an optical center of the image sensor. The method may include reflecting light transmitted by the light source off of the cleaved end of the optical fiber and detecting, by the image sensor, light reflected off of the cleaved end of the optical fiber. The cleave angle of the optical fiber may be determined based on the light reflected off of the cleaved end.