Fiber Splicer With Movable Release Module
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical waveguide splicing devices require separate handling of spliced connections for mechanical protection, making them vulnerable to damage during this process.
Innovation Solution
A device with holders and an alignment mechanism that allows for precise alignment of optical waveguides, using electrodes to create a splice and then moving the splicing module to a release position for easy access and application of mechanical protection without moving the fragile spliced connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the spliced connection is removed from the device for mechanical protection, then the mechanical protection can be applied, but the spliced connection becomes vulnerable to damage during handling
Solution Approach 1:
The spliced connection is nested within the splicing device structure, where the holders and alignment means remain in place while the spliced fibers extend outward. This allows mechanical protection to be applied to the spliced connection without requiring removal from the device, thus preventing damage while enabling protection application
Solution Approach 2:
The holders and alignment means serve as intermediaries that maintain the spliced connection in a protected state during the mechanical protection application process. These components act as a bridge between the splicing process and the protection application, eliminating the need for separate handling
2Ease of manufacture
If the spliced connection is removed from the device, then mechanical protection can be applied, but additional handling steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The functions of splicing and mechanical protection application are merged into a single integrated process. The splicing device structure is designed to accommodate both the splicing operation and the subsequent application of mechanical protection without requiring removal or repositioning of components, thus reducing the number of handling steps
3Ease of manufacture
If the optical fiber ends are freed from outer sheath and protective sheath, then splicing can be performed, but the exposed ends become fragile and sensitive to improper handling
Solution Approach 1:
The holders and alignment means are designed to maintain the exposed optical fiber ends in a protected and stable configuration before, during, and after splicing. This preliminary preparation ensures that the fragile exposed ends are always supported and positioned correctly, preventing damage from improper handling while enabling splicing to be performed
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 the application of mechanical protection to the spliced connection without separate handling, reducing the risk of damage and facilitating easier inspection and removal.
Implementation Method 1
electrodes which are located in the region of the ends of the optical waveguides which are aligned with one another. To create the splice, the electrodes are connected to a high-voltage source, creating an arc between the electrodes.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for splicing fiber optic lines having a first and second holder for direct or indirect receiving of at least one fiber optic line each, an alignment means for aligning the ends of the fiber optic lines received in the first and in the second holder to one another and electrodes in the region of the ends of the fiber optic lines aligned to one another for creating a slice connection. The two holders on one side and the alignment means and preferably the electrodes on the other side can move relative to one another between a splicing position and a release position such that the splice connection is released in the release position.