Multimode Optical Fiber Periodic Diameter Variation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multimode optical fibers with connectors experience significant eccentricity issues due to the required clearance in the connector ferrule, leading to unstable optical axis alignment and performance variability.
Innovation Solution
A GI multimode optical fiber with a periodically varying outer diameter, featuring regions with diameters larger and smaller than the target diameter, alternately arranged along the fiber length, to stabilize the fiber center relative to the connector ferrule, thereby minimizing eccentricity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a clearance of at least 1 μm is provided in the fiber insert hole, then the optical fiber can be easily inserted and adhesive can flow, but the optical axis becomes significantly eccentric relative to the center of the fiber insert hole
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by forming a protrusion on the optical fiber surface at a predetermined position before connector assembly. This protrusion serves as a pre-established positioning feature that guides the fiber into correct alignment with the fiber insert hole, preventing eccentricity before the insertion process occurs. The protrusion is formed during fiber manufacturing, ensuring the fiber is pre-configured for precise positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusion acts as an intermediary positioning element between the optical fiber and the fiber insert hole. It mediates the insertion process by providing a mechanical reference that ensures the fiber center aligns with the hole center, while still allowing the necessary clearance for adhesive flow. The protrusion translates the clearance space into a controlled positioning mechanism.
2Ease of manufacture
If the fiber outer diameter is uniformly consistent, then manufacturing is simplified, but stable alignment with the connector ferrule cannot be achieved due to clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a localized protrusion on an otherwise uniform fiber surface. The majority of the fiber maintains a consistent outer diameter for easy manufacturing, while a specific local region features the protrusion that provides alignment functionality. This localized modification preserves manufacturing simplicity while adding the necessary alignment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusion introduces controlled asymmetry to the otherwise symmetric cylindrical fiber structure. This asymmetric feature breaks the rotational symmetry, providing a unique orientation reference that enables stable alignment with the connector ferrule. The asymmetry is minimal and localized, maintaining overall fiber symmetry for manufacturing ease.
3Ease of manufacture
If the protrusion position is not precisely controlled, then manufacturing is easier, but the alignment precision with the connector ferrule deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusion position is predetermined and pre-formed during the fiber manufacturing process rather than being adjusted during assembly. This preliminary positioning ensures that the protrusion is located at the exact required position (e.g., 0° or specific angular position) before the fiber is assembled into the connector, eliminating the need for post-manufacturing alignment adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber structure serves its own alignment function through the self-aligning protrusion feature. The protrusion automatically positions the fiber correctly as it is inserted into the connector ferrule, without requiring external alignment tools or complex positioning mechanisms. The structure itself provides the alignment function, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a multimode optical fiber having a structure for stably reducing eccentricity relative to an insert hole of a connector ferrule to be mounted at an end thereof, wherein a fiber outer diameter of the multimode optical fiber along its longitudinal direction varies periodically in a range of ±0.5 μm with respect to a target fiber outer diameter.