Gap-Coupled Optical Transmission Line for Low-Reflection Fiber Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical transmission line connections face issues such as increased reflection loss, damage to end surfaces, and difficulty in achieving precise connectivity, especially in applications requiring frequent insertion and removal or in environments with vibration, leading to reliability and cost concerns.
Innovation Solution
An optical transmission line system that optically connects first and second optical transmission lines via a gap, utilizing a connection adapter with ferrules, allowing for a simple configuration that inhibits reflection and enhances connectivity by enlarging the beam diameter through forward scattering, thereby reducing the need for precise polishing and strong fitting forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If PC connection is used to prevent reflection, then reflection loss is reduced, but end surfaces are damaged due to strong fitting force and foreign substances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (refractive index matching agent) between the two optical fibers to prevent reflection. This mediator eliminates the need for strong physical contact (PC connection) while achieving the same reflection prevention effect, thereby protecting the end surfaces from damage caused by fitting forces and foreign substances.
2Loss of energy
If PC connection is used for high-quality transmission, then reflection is inhibited, but workability deteriorates due to precise polishing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By using a refractive index matching agent as an intermediary, the patent eliminates the requirement for precise PC polishing. The matching agent handles the reflection prevention function, allowing simpler, less precise end surface preparation while maintaining high transmission quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If MPO connectors are used for multi-core links, then connectivity is improved, but polishing cost increases due to difficulty in controlling fiber protrusion
Solution Approach 1:
The refractive index matching agent serves as a mediator that eliminates the need for precise fiber protrusion control in MPO connectors. By placing the matching agent between the fibers, the system achieves reliable multi-core connectivity without requiring complex polishing processes to control protrusion amounts.
4Loss of energy
If PC connection is used in frequent insertion applications, then reflection is prevented, but reliability decreases due to cumulative end surface damage
Solution Approach 1:
The refractive index matching agent acts as a protective intermediary that prevents direct physical contact between fiber end surfaces during insertion and removal. This eliminates cumulative wear and damage while maintaining reflection prevention, thereby significantly improving connection durability for frequent insertion applications.
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 system achieves high-quality and large-capacity communication with improved connectivity, simplified polishing processes, and protected end surfaces, while reducing noise and damage risks.
Implementation Method 1
the first optical transmission line performs output while enlarging a beam diameter by three times or more
Data Source
AI summary
An optical transmission system includes: a first optical transmission line to which an optical signal having a predetermined wavelength is input; a second optical transmission line; and a connection portion that optically connects the first optical transmission line with the second optical transmission line, in which, when a product of a scattering loss of the optical signal and a length is 6 dB or less and a Gaussian beam emitted from a single-mode optical fiber is input by center excitation, the first optical transmission line performs output while enlarging a beam diameter by three times or more, and in the connection portion, the first optical transmission line and the second optical transmission line are optically connected via a gap.