Magnetic Fiber Array Connector for Fast Optical Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber connectors lack efficient and reliable mechanisms for automatic alignment and secure connection/disconnection, leading to inefficiencies in fiber array replacements and repairs.
Innovation Solution
The use of magnetic members to align and connect optical fibers within a connector, combined with spring-loaded mechanisms for secure holding and adjustable alignment, allowing for easy detachment and reconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual alignment methods are used for optical fibers, then alignment accuracy can be achieved, but the time and complexity of connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs magnetic members that automatically align the fiber arrays when brought into proximity, eliminating the need for manual alignment adjustments. The magnetic force self-corrects positional deviations and secures the connection without human intervention, thus achieving high alignment accuracy while significantly reducing connection time
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic members are pre-positioned within the connector housing at specific locations that correspond to the fiber array positions. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the fiber arrays are inserted, the magnetic force immediately guides them into the correct alignment, preventing the need for time-consuming manual adjustment
2Reliability
If traditional connection mechanisms are used, then secure connection can be achieved, but ease of disconnection and reconnection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection mechanisms (such as screws, clips, or latches) with a magnetic field-based system. The magnetic members provide secure holding force through magnetic attraction while allowing simple separation by overcoming the magnetic force, thus achieving both connection security and ease of disconnection/reconnection
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic force can be dynamically adjusted by changing the magnetic field strength or the distance between magnetic members and fiber arrays. This allows the connection to be securely held during operation but easily released when needed, providing both reliability and operational ease
3Measurement precision
If fixed alignment mechanisms are used, then initial alignment accuracy is achieved, but adaptability for adjustments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from a fixed alignment mechanism to a dynamic magnetic alignment system. The magnetic members can be repositioned or their field strength adjusted to accommodate different fiber array positions and configurations, maintaining alignment accuracy while providing adaptability for adjustments and repairs
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
Facilitates faster, more accurate optical alignment and secure connection of fiber arrays, reducing the time and cost of replacements and repairs by enabling modular and efficient fiber array connections.
Implementation Method 1
The use of magnetic members to align and connect optical fibers within a connector
Implementation Method 2
spring-loaded mechanisms for secure holding and adjustable alignment
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a first fiber array that includes first optical fibers and first magnetic members; a second fiber array that includes second optical fibers and second magnetic members; and a connector including third magnetic members adjacent an opening, wherein the opening extends from a first side of the connector to a second side of the connector, wherein the first magnetic members of the first fiber array correspond to third magnetic members near the first side, wherein the second magnetic members of the second fiber array correspond to third magnetic members near the second side.