Optical Fiber Coating Removal Retention Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing coating removal devices for optical fibers face issues with the slideability of the slider, leading to potential re-approachment of the main body and gripping section, which can cause damage to the bare optical fiber, especially when the device is tilted.

Innovation Solution

A coating removal device with a retention unit that maintains the main body and gripping section in a maximum separation state, utilizing a slider with a shaft and engagement portions to prevent re-approachment, and includes a ball bearing for reduced resistance during separation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the slideability of the slider is improved to reduce resistance during separation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because the main body and gripping section may re-approach due to rebounding or tilting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveslideability of sliderVSAvoidstability of separated state
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The retention unit applies a preliminary counteracting force to prevent the harmful effect of re-approachment before it occurs. The elastic member is pre-loaded to exert a separating force that counteracts any rebounding or tilting forces that might cause the main body and gripping section to re-approach, thus maintaining the separated state reliably while allowing smooth slider operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

2Productivity

If the main body and gripping section are separated to remove the coating, then the coating removal function is achieved, but the risk of optical fiber damage increases if they re-approach

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoating removal efficiencyVSAvoidrisk of fiber damage
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The retention unit acts as a cushioning mechanism that maintains a safe separation distance between the main body and gripping section after coating removal. The elastic member stores potential energy during separation and continuously exerts a gentle holding force to prevent accidental re-approachment, thereby cushioning against potential damage to the bare optical fiber while allowing complete coating removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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 retention unit effectively suppresses the re-approachment of the main body and gripping section, preventing damage to the optical fiber and ensuring safe removal of the coating, even when the device is tilted.

Implementation Method 1

A coating removal device with a retention unit that maintains the main body and gripping section in a maximum separation state, utilizing a slider with a shaft and engagement portions to prevent re-approachment, and includes a ball bearing for reduced resistance during separation.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP3396425B1Coating removal device
Publication Date: 2022.12.14 FUJIKURA LTD
  • EP3396425B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3396425B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2C
  • EP3396425B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

PROBLEM: To prevent a main body and a gripping section, which have been separated during coating removal, from approaching each other. SOLUTION: A coating removing device of the disclosure includes: a main body that includes a blade used for coating removal; a gripping section that grips an optical fiber; and a slider that connects the main body and the gripping section together so as to be able to approach or separate from each other. The coating removing device removes a coating from the optical fiber by separating the main body and the gripping section after an incision has been made in the coating of the optical fiber using the blade. The slider includes a retention unit to retain the main body and the gripping section in a maximum separation state.