Optical Fiber Connector Buffer Prevents Index Matching Peeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In field assembly optical connectors, the solid refractive index matching material can peel off from the tip of the first optical fiber when the second optical fiber is held and fixed between the base member and the pressing member of the clamp portion, leading to potential connection loss and mechanical deterioration.
Innovation Solution
An optical fiber connector with a clamp portion that includes a fiber fixing portion for the first optical fiber, a spring for elastic biasing, and a partially spherical solid refractive index matching material on the tip of the first optical fiber, allowing for a movable second optical fiber with a cladding diameter similar to the first optical fiber, and an interposing member for opening and closing the clamp portion to prevent peeling of the matching material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the second optical fiber is held and fixed between the base member and the pressing member of the clamp portion, then the optical connection is secured, but the solid refractive index matching material peels off from the tip of the first optical fiber
Solution Approach 1:
A buffer member is introduced as an intermediary element between the pressing member and the first optical fiber. This buffer member absorbs and distributes the pressing force, preventing direct contact between the pressing member and the fragile solid refractive index matching material, thereby preventing peeling while maintaining secure optical connection
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer member serves as a cushioning element positioned in advance between the pressing member and the first optical fiber. It provides protective cushioning against the pressing force before the force can damage the solid refractive index matching material, preventing peeling while maintaining connection stability
2Loss of energy
If the tip of the second optical fiber is inserted deeply to ensure connection, then connection loss is reduced, but the solid refractive index matching material is more likely to peel off
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer member acts as a mediator that allows deep insertion of the second optical fiber for low connection loss while protecting the solid refractive index matching material from peeling by absorbing the mechanical stress of insertion and fixation
3Reliability
If the clamp portion is designed with strong pressing force to secure the fibers, then connection stability is improved, but the solid refractive index matching material peels off due to excessive force
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer member serves as a force-distributing intermediary between the pressing member and the first optical fiber. It transmits necessary pressing force for connection stability while distributing the stress to prevent localized peeling of the solid refractive index matching material
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer member changes the pressure distribution parameters by spreading the concentrated pressing force over a larger area. This parameter change allows maintaining connection stability through sufficient pressing force while preventing peeling by reducing stress concentration on the solid refractive index matching material
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 solution effectively prevents peeling of the solid refractive index matching material, ensuring a reliable low-loss optical connection between the first and second optical fibers by limiting the displacement of the second optical fiber's tip and maintaining the material's integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a spring which elastically biases the pressing member toward the base member
Implementation Method 2
a solid refractive index matching material which is attached to a tip surface of the extending portion of the first optical fiber and is interposed between the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical fiber splicer includes a fiber fixing portion, a first optical fiber fixed to the fiber fixing portion, a clamp portion which is capable of holding and fixing an extending portion extended from the fiber fixing portion of the first optical fiber and a tip portion of a second optical fiber optically connected to the extending portion of the first optical fiber between a base member and a pressing member being openable and closable with respect to the base member, and a solid index matching material which is attached to a tip surface of the extending portion of the first optical fiber and is interposed between the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber.