Multi-Core Fiber Bend Validation Using Redundant Cores
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bend sensing applications in optical fibers, such as those used in robotic arms, require high accuracy and reliability but often face challenges due to space or cost constraints, making redundant fibers impractical.
Innovation Solution
An interferometric measurement system with M primary cores and N redundant cores, where M > 2 and N > 1, uses data processing circuitry to compare primary and redundant core bend values, detecting errors through a comparison of interferometric pattern data and generating signals for unreliable measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a redundant fiber is used to ensure safe and reliable bend sensing output, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single optical fiber by integrating M primary measurement cores and N redundant measurement cores within the same fiber structure. This merging approach allows the fiber to simultaneously perform primary measurements, redundant measurements, and self-diagnosis functions, eliminating the need for separate redundant fiber installations while maintaining reliability improvements.
Solution Approach 2:
The single optical fiber is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating different types of cores (primary and redundant) that can perform different measurement functions. The fiber structure enables it to serve as both a primary sensing element and a redundant backup system, as well as providing self-diagnosis capabilities, thereby reducing overall system complexity while improving reliability.
2Reliability
If a redundant fiber is used to ensure safe and reliable bend sensing output, then reliability is improved, but space constraints are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges primary and redundant measurement functions into a single optical fiber structure, allowing both M primary cores and N redundant cores to coexist within the same fiber. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate redundant fiber installations, significantly reducing the space required in conduits and other installation environments while maintaining the reliability benefits of redundancy.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber structure employs a nested configuration where multiple cores (M primary cores and N redundant cores) are embedded within a single optical fiber structure. This nesting approach allows redundant measurement capabilities to be housed within the same physical fiber, minimizing the additional space required while ensuring reliable bend sensing output.
3Reliability
If M primary cores and N redundant cores are used in a single fiber, then reliability is improved without increasing space requirements, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct regions within the optical fiber with different core configurations. The M primary cores and N redundant cores are positioned in specific locations within the fiber structure, allowing for optimized local measurement capabilities while maintaining overall manufacturing feasibility. This localized differentiation enables reliable measurements without requiring extreme precision across the entire fiber structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes parameter changes by varying the geometric arrangement and positioning of different cores within the fiber. By carefully selecting and adjusting parameters such as core positions, spacing, and orientations, the system achieves reliable bend sensing with redundant measurement capabilities while maintaining practical manufacturing precision requirements. The geometric parameters are optimized to balance measurement accuracy with manufacturability.
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
Ensures safe and reliable bend sensing output by detecting errors in optical fiber measurements, improving accuracy without the need for redundant fibers, suitable for applications like robotic medical instruments.
Implementation Method 1
An interferometric measurement system measures an optical fiber including M primary cores and N redundant cores
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber includes M primary cores and N redundant cores, where M an integer is greater than two and N is an integer greater than one. Interferometric circuitry detects interferometric pattern data associated with the M primary cores and the N redundant cores when the optical fiber is placed into a sensing position. Data processing circuitry calculates a primary core fiber bend value for the M primary cores and a redundant core fiber bend value for the N redundant cores based on a predetermined geometry of the M primary cores and the N redundant cores in the fiber and detected interferometric pattern data associated with the M primary cores and the N redundant cores. The primary core fiber bend value and the redundant core fiber bend value are compared in a comparison. The detected data for the M primary cores is determined reliable or unreliable based on the comparison. A signal is generated in response to an unreliable determination.