Multi-Fiber Connector Nozzle With Segmented Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cleaning methods for multi-fiber optical connectors are inadequate in ensuring the cleanliness of the entire ferrule end face, including alignment features, which can lead to connector failure due to contamination from areas beyond the standard cleaning focus.
Innovation Solution
A nozzle assembly with elongate channels and a recessed wall design that allows a cleaning fluid to flow over the entire ferrule end face, including alignment features, ensuring thorough debris removal by creating a specific flow path that maximizes shear stress and coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cleaning methods focus only on fiber end faces, then cleaning simplicity is maintained, but cleaning completeness deteriorates because contaminants from alignment features and other ferrule areas can reach the fiber end faces
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is segmented into multiple independent channels (first channel, second channel, third channel) that can be individually configured to clean different areas of the ferrule end face. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage of the entire end face including alignment features while maintaining modular design simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning nozzle is designed with multi-functionality to clean not only the fiber end faces but also the alignment features and other portions of the ferrule end face. The same nozzle structure performs multiple cleaning functions across different areas, eliminating the need for separate cleaning devices for each region
2Area of stationary object
If a single channel nozzle is used, then device complexity is reduced, but cleaning coverage deteriorates because it cannot effectively clean the entire elongate ferrule end face including alignment features
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle incorporates multiple channels (first channel with first front-end opening, second channel with second front-end opening, third channel with third front-end opening) spaced apart in the second direction. Each channel targets a specific region of the elongate ferrule end face, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the entire surface area including alignment features
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle design transitions from a single-point cleaning approach to a multi-dimensional coverage strategy. Channels are arranged in both the first direction (along the elongate axis) and second direction (perpendicular to it), creating a two-dimensional cleaning pattern that covers the entire ferrule end face surface
3Reliability
If cleaning fluid flows only over fiber end faces, then cleaning precision is maintained, but cleaning completeness deteriorates because alignment features and other ferrule areas remain contaminated
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle design applies local quality by directing cleaning fluid through multiple channels to different specific regions of the ferrule end face. Each channel is positioned to clean a particular area (fiber end faces, alignment features, or other portions), allowing optimized cleaning precision for each local region while ensuring overall completeness
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 design effectively removes debris from the ferrule and fiber end faces, enhancing the reliability of multi-fiber connectors by ensuring comprehensive cleaning, even in areas traditionally overlooked by standard methods.
Implementation Method 1
The shear force generated from the impingement jet, combined with the optional chemicals in the solvent, removes particles adhered to the front end of the ferrule
Implementation Method 2
One of the non-contact cleaning methods uses an impingement jet to deliver high speed air mixed with a solvent to clean the front end of the ferrule
Data Source
AI summary
The nozzle includes a nozzle body having a front end with a recess defining a recessed wall. The recess is elongate in a first direction. The recess receives a front-end section of a ferrule of a multi-fiber connector to define gap, wherein the front-end section has an elongate end face. The nozzle has first and second channels that are elongate in the first direction and have respective first and second front-end openings at the recessed wall. The first and second front-end openings are spaced apart in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. A cleaning fluid flows from the first channel into the gap and then out the second channel, including over the ferrule end faces and end faces of optical fibers supported by the ferrule. A flow-disrupting feature on the recessed wall generates turbulent flow to enhance cleaning.