Modular Optical Fibre Management System for Laser Setup Organization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fibre optic systems face challenges with the proliferation of optical fibres on optical tables, leading to a messy and fragile setup, which complicates portability and increases the risk of fibre damage due to interweaving, making it difficult to maintain and transport.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising regularly spaced posts and modules that can be assembled to accommodate optical fibres in a flexible and secure manner, allowing for adjustable size and configuration, with metal or polymer components for stability and heat management, and designed to prevent fibre kinking and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If optical fibres are arranged on optical tables using standard spools, then fibres can be managed, but the setup becomes messy and fibres proliferate across the table
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the optical table into discrete modular positions defined by regularly spaced posts. Each module occupies a specific position and contains a controlled number of fibres, preventing uncontrolled proliferation across the entire table. The modular architecture segments the fibre management into manageable units.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a two-dimensional spread of fibres across the optical table surface to a three-dimensional organized structure where fibres are routed through vertical posts and contained within modules at specific heights, reducing surface clutter.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fibres are arranged on the optical table, then fibre optic systems can be built, but the risk of fibre destruction increases due to interweaving
Solution Approach 1:
Each module independently manages specific fibres with dedicated routing paths through posts. This segmentation prevents fibres from interweaving with each other, as each fibre has its own defined route from source through module-specific posts to destination, reducing the risk of accidental damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-defines fibre routing paths through the modular structure and posts before fibres are fully installed. This preliminary organization of fibre paths prevents chaotic interweaving and makes the system more resistant to accidental fibre destruction during operation.
3Device complexity
If fibre optic components and electronics are integrated on the optical table, then compact breadboard setup is achieved, but portability becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the integrated setup into modular units that can be independently handled and transported. Each module contains specific components and fibres, allowing the overall system to be disassembled into transportable units while maintaining integration within each module.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular system transitions from a fixed, non-portable integrated setup to a dynamic configuration where modules can be easily assembled and disassembled. The regularly spaced posts and standardized modules enable rapid reconfiguration and transport without losing system integration.
4Reliability
If a modular system with regularly spaced posts is used, then fibres can be securely arranged, but the initial setup complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The regularly spaced posts serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, define module positions, guide fibre routing, and enable modular assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, making the initial setup more manageable despite the modular structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the setup process into standardized module installation steps. Each module follows the same assembly procedure using the regularly spaced posts, reducing overall complexity through repetition of proven assembly patterns rather than custom installation for each component.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a modular and stackable system (1) for arranging an optical fibre of an optical system in a controlled and secure manner, comprising at least the following components: a modular frame (30) comprising a plurality of upright posts (31), wherein the posts (31) are arranged such on the frame (30) that a next- neighbour distance of the posts (31) is identical, wherein each post (31) comprises a recess (31a) on the upper end; at least one module (20) for receiving an optical fibre, wherein the module (20) comprises at least four corners (21); wherein the posts (31) are arranged such that four modules (20) can be arranged with their corners (21) non-overlapping on a single post (31); wherein each module's corner (21) can be fixed with a fixing means on the post (31), wherein the fixing means is designed to engage in the recess (31a) on the upper end of the post (31) and wherein the corners (21) of each module (20) and the fixing means are designed such that the fixing means can simultaneously fix four non-overlappingly arranged modules (20) on a single post (31) of the frame (30). The invention furthermore relates to a fibre laser comprising a modular system (1).