Optical Fiber Connector Immobilization Against Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical fiber connectors are prone to damage due to rotational and dynamic forces in applications like OCT and SEE, leading to signal loss and short lifespan under conditions of rotation, bending, and vibration.
Innovation Solution
An optical connection configuration that includes a first and second connector secured by holders, an adapter for mating, and additional holders interconnected to reinforce components, using bonding or compression fitting to immobilize relative movements and prevent end-face damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If optical fiber connectors are used under dynamic work conditions with rotation and vibration, then imaging functionality is achieved, but fiber end-face damage occurs due to relative motions and non-constant forces
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion that remains stationary, a ferrule portion that holds the fiber, and a coupling mechanism. This segmentation allows the fiber-holding portion to be isolated from dynamic forces while maintaining imaging functionality through controlled movement of other components.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber end-face is pre-positioned and secured in the ferrule before the connector undergoes any dynamic operation. Alignment features are pre-configured to ensure the fiber remains in its optimal position, preventing relative motion that could cause damage during rotation or vibration.
2Loss of energy
If spring-loaded connectors are used to eliminate air gaps between fiber faces, then signal loss is reduced, but fiber end-face damage is caused by transmitted dynamic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded mechanism is extracted or isolated from the fiber end-face contact area. The connector uses an alternative coupling method that maintains fiber-to-fiber contact without transmitting dynamic forces through a spring mechanism, thereby eliminating the harmful force transmission while preserving signal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary coupling mechanism is introduced between the connector body and the ferrule, replacing the direct spring-loaded connection. This intermediary absorbs or isolates dynamic forces, allowing the fiber end-faces to remain in stable contact without being subjected to transmitted forces from the coupling mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rotational motion is applied to scan for imaging, then imaging capability is enabled, but connector damage occurs due to rotation torque and bending forces
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into a stationary body portion and a movable scanning portion. The fiber-holding ferrule is firmly secured in the body, isolating it from rotational torques. The scanning function is achieved through movement of other components that do not transmit forces to the fiber connection point.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational scanning mechanism is extracted from the fiber connection assembly. The imaging scanning function is decoupled from the connector structure, allowing rotation to occur in a separate mechanism that does not impose torque or bending forces on the fiber end-face or connector body.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connection includes a first connector, a second connector, a first holder connected to the first connector, where the first connector is secured by the first holder by tight fitting or bonding, and a second holder connected to the second connector, where the second connector is secured by the second holder by tight fitting or bonding. An adapter can be configured to connect with the first connector and the second connector, and a third holder can be connected to the adapter and interconnected between the first holder and the second holder.