Automated Optical Fiber Attachment Device for Reel Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual attachment of optical fibers to reels is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a distributor wheel, winder, attachment device with a spring-biased frame and gripper for automating the attachment and cutting of optical fibers, allowing for seamless reel exchange and continuous winding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual labor is used to attach optical fiber to reel, then operational simplicity is maintained, but productivity is reduced and time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment device automatically performs fiber attachment to the reel flange without manual intervention. The system uses self-contained mechanisms including automated fiber feeding, alignment, and attachment execution, eliminating the need for operators to manually attach fibers while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment device is divided into functional modules: fiber feeding mechanism, alignment system, attachment execution mechanism, and control system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while enabling independent optimization and maintenance of individual modules
2Productivity
If automated attachment device is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment device is integrated with the reel exchange mechanism to perform multiple functions: automatic fiber attachment to flange, reel removal, new reel installation, and fiber attachment to new reel. This multi-functionality consolidates several operations into a single automated system, improving overall reel exchange efficiency while maintaining operational simplicity through centralized control
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment device merges the fiber attachment function with the reel exchange process. The cutting device, attachment device, and reel handling mechanisms are coordinated as an integrated system, allowing seamless transition between reels without manual intervention and maximizing productivity
3Loss of time
If manual fiber attachment is used, then device complexity is minimized, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber is pre-positioned and fed through the distributor wheel mechanism before reaching the attachment point. The alignment system pre-aligns the fiber with the reel flange attachment location, and the cutting device is pre-positioned to cut at the precise moment needed. These preliminary actions minimize the actual attachment time while managing system complexity through coordinated pre-positioning
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 device significantly reduces the time required for attaching optical fibers to reels, enhancing efficiency and precision by automating the process.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-biased frame and a collector for collecting a piece of tape
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
An equipment for attaching an optical fiber to a reel, comprising a tape supply station (16) configured to cut and supply pieces of tape, an attachment device (5) comprising a frame with a collector (15) for collecting a piece of tape from the tape supply station (16) for attaching the optical fiber (2) to the reel, an actuator (5-1) for moving the attachment device (5) and for pressing the collector (15), having said piece of tape, against the optical fiber (2) and the reel in order to attach said optical fiber (2) to said reel, and a cutter (7) for cutting the optical fiber (2). Such an equipment is advantageous as manual labour can be excluded from the process step of attaching an optical fiber to a reel.