Optical Array Polarity Detection with Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional devices for measuring optical signal intensity in optical fiber arrays are time-consuming and limited in versatility, requiring individual coupling to each fiber and being incompatible with various array configurations due to gender-specific connectors, which introduces measurement uncertainties and restricts their use to specific array sizes.
Innovation Solution
A position sensing detector with a single substrate optical sensing area and multiple electrodes that captures optical signals from multiple fibers in a fixed position, determining signal intensity and polarity by processing output signals indicative of signal location and intensity, and using interchangeable adapters for compatibility with different connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional devices couple individually to each optical fiber to measure intensity, then measurement precision is maintained, but measurement time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual fiber measurement functions into a single integrated device that can measure multiple fibers simultaneously. The position sensing detector integrates multiple sensors and alignment mechanisms into one unit that couples to multiple fibers at once, eliminating the need for sequential individual measurements while maintaining measurement precision through the integrated sensing and alignment system.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with universal compatibility to measure various optical fiber array configurations (different numbers of rows and columns) using a single multi-functional instrument. This eliminates the need for multiple specialized devices for different array sizes and enables simultaneous measurement across all fibers in the array, significantly reducing total measurement time.
2Measurement precision
If gender-specific connectors are used for alignment, then connection precision is achieved, but device versatility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates universal adapter interfaces that can accommodate different connector types and array configurations. Rather than requiring separate devices for pinned and unpinned connectors or different array sizes, the instrument uses adaptable coupling mechanisms that maintain precise alignment across various configurations, enabling a single device to serve multiple measurement needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs dynamic alignment and positioning mechanisms that can adjust to different connector genders and array configurations. The position sensing detector includes adjustable components that adapt their positioning and orientation based on the specific connector type being measured, maintaining measurement precision while accommodating versatility in array configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If patch cords are used to reverse connector gender, then connector compatibility is achieved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using patch cords as intermediaries that introduce measurement artifacts, the device employs a dedicated adapter interface that directly couples to the optical array connector. This intermediary adapter is designed to maintain signal integrity and avoid introducing the artifacts that occur with patch cord connections, enabling accurate measurements while achieving connector compatibility.
4Measurement precision
If multiple devices are carried for different connector genders, then measurement precision for each connector type is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes a single multi-functional device that can measure both pinned and unpinned connectors, as well as various optical array configurations, without requiring multiple separate instruments. The device incorporates adaptable interfaces and positioning mechanisms that enable it to function as multiple specialized devices would, thereby reducing the total number of devices personnel must carry and manage.
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
Enables efficient, simultaneous measurement of optical signal intensity and polarity across various optical fiber array configurations without the need for individual fiber coupling, reducing measurement time and uncertainty, and accommodating different connector types.
Implementation Method 1
The position sensing detector has a sensor that is positionable with respect to an optical array. The sensor receives, from the optical array, a plurality of optical signals that are incident on the sensor
Implementation Method 2
The plurality of electrodes outputs a respective plurality of output signals in response to receipt of an optical signal of the plurality of optical signals by the sensor. The plurality of output signals are indicative of a location at which the optical signal of the plurality of optical signals was incident on the sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus for determining optical fiber array polarity is disclosed. The apparatus may be used to determine optical signal loss or intensity. An adapter may be used to couple the apparatus to a variety of optical fiber connectors. The apparatus includes a position sensing detector and processing circuitry. The position sensing detector includes a sensor that receives optical signals and electrodes that output respective output signals in response to receipt of an optical signal. The processing circuitry receives the output signals and identifies locations at which the optical signals were incident on the sensor. The processing circuitry also determines the receiving position in the optical array of an optical fiber and a polarity of the optical array based on the receiving position and a corresponding transmitting position. The processing circuitry may determine an intensity or loss of the optical signal based on an aggregate of the output signals.