Fiber Optic Slip Ring Through Bore Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing off-axis fiber optic rotary joints face challenges in transmitting high data rates through a through bore, as the increased ratio of fiber diameter to photodiode area makes it difficult to focus multiple optical signals onto a small active area, and require multiple inputs and pick-ups to maintain signal levels, limiting their efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic slip ring design with a through bore that includes a rotor and stator assembly featuring a donut-shaped waveguide and angled-surface fiber brush, allowing for efficient transmission and reception of optic signals between mechanically rotational interfaces, using optic index matching fluid and shaft seals to maintain signal integrity during rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple optical signals are transmitted through a through bore at high data rates, then data transmission capability is improved, but the increased ratio of fiber diameter to photodiode area makes it difficult to focus multiple optical signals onto the small active area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new spatial dimension by positioning photodiodes at an angle to the rotational axis rather than directly facing it. This angular arrangement allows multiple optical signals from different fiber positions to be focused onto the photodiode active area without requiring extreme precision in the traditional axial direction, effectively solving the focusing difficulty caused by the small photodiode area relative to fiber diameter.
2Reliability
If multiple inputs and pick-ups are used to maintain signal levels, then signal reception capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the photodiode assembly universal by designing it to receive optical signals from multiple fiber positions through angular illumination. Instead of requiring separate pick-ups for each fiber position, a single photodiode assembly can detect signals from multiple channels, reducing the number of components while maintaining signal reception capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If optical signals are transmitted through a through bore, then routing space for other media is provided, but the available space for optical components is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the space constraint by transitioning from an axial arrangement to an angular arrangement. Optical components are positioned at angles to the through bore axis, utilizing the angular dimension rather than competing for axial space. This allows the through bore to remain clear for other media while optical components are accommodated in the angular space around it.
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
Enables reliable and efficient transmission of optic signals at higher data rates, such as 5.0 Gbit/sec, by ensuring consistent contact between the optic fiber and fiber brush, even during rotation, thereby overcoming the limitations of previous designs.
Implementation Method 1
Said optic fiber may extend from said stator to said rotor and transmit said optic signal from said stator to said rotor or from said rotor to said stator
Implementation Method 2
Said fiber brush may have an angled-surface on one end... Said angled-surface on said fiber brush may be fully contacted with said flat surface on said ring at any time
Implementation Method 3
Said brush block assembly may include fiber brush, brush block, optic index matching fluid, shaft seal and grease seal
Data Source
AI summary
The current disclosure shows a fiber optic slip ring with through bore, or an off-axis fiber optic rotary joint to provide transmission of optic data between mechanically rotational interface with a through bore. Said fiber optic slip ring with through bore may include a ring assembly and a brush block assembly within a rotor and a stator. Said ring assembly may include a ring, a ring holder and a fiber. Said brush block assembly may include a fiber brush, a brush block, an optic index matching fluid, and shaft seals. Said ring may be a donut-shaped waveguide with flat surface on one side. Said fiber brush may have an angled-surface, which is fully contacted with said flat surface on said ring at any time so that during the rotation of said rotor, the optic signal can be transmitted between said fiber and said fiber brush in either direction.