Optical Fiber Connector Rotational Alignment via Asymmetric Ferrules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Standard optical fiber connectors lack effective rotational alignment capabilities, which can lead to misalignment and reduced accuracy in optical coupling, especially when dealing with polarization maintaining or multicore fibers.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an optical fiber connector system that utilizes multiple rotational alignment features, including ferrules and protrusions, along with an adapter with specific mating features, to ensure precise rotational alignment of optical fibers, with features such as spring-loaded enclosures and adjustable spacing to enhance alignment accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If standard optical fiber connectors are used without rotational alignment features, then the device complexity is low, but the manufacturing precision and reliability of optical coupling deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by introducing non-circular rotational alignment features (such as flat surfaces, grooves, or asymmetric protrusions) on the ferrules and corresponding mating features on the connector bodies. These asymmetric features prevent rotational misalignment by ensuring that the ferrules can only be inserted in the correct rotational orientation, thereby achieving precise rotational alignment without requiring complex active alignment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational alignment features are designed to automatically guide the ferrules into the correct rotational position during the insertion process. The asymmetric geometry of the alignment features (such as keyways, flats, or cam mechanisms) causes the ferrules to self-align rotationally as they are inserted into the connector, eliminating the need for external alignment tools or complex adjustment mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If multiple rotational alignment features are added to the connector, then the rotational alignment accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple rotational alignment features into a unified integrated structure on the ferrule and connector body. Rather than adding separate independent alignment mechanisms, the design integrates the alignment features directly into the ferrule geometry (such as incorporating flats, grooves, or asymmetric cross-sections) and their corresponding mating features into the connector body, achieving precise rotational alignment with a cohesive design rather than multiple discrete components.
3Reliability
If rotational alignment features are implemented, then the reliability of optical coupling improves, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rotational alignment function into distinct geometric features on the ferrule and corresponding mating features on the connector body. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with standard precision machining techniques, and the alignment reliability is achieved through the precise geometric relationship between the segmented features rather than requiring complex integrated manufacturing processes.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical fiber connector configured to rotationally align a first optical fiber with a second optical fiber is provided. The connector can include at least two rotational alignment features. At least one of the two rotational alignment features can include at least one ferrule configured to hold at least the first optical fiber.