Optical Connector Cleaning Tool with Movable Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning tools face difficulties in aligning the positions of nozzle members with exposed ferrules, especially when ferrules are not located inside the connector accommodating hole, and require tool changes for different ferrule pitches.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning tool with a detachable attachment featuring movable connection members that include tubular portions for ferrule insertion, allowing alignment of nozzle and head members with ferrules regardless of their location, and adjustable nozzle positions to accommodate varying ferrule pitches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the nozzle member is inserted into the connector accommodating hole for alignment, then the position alignment between nozzle member and ferrule is improved, but it becomes impossible to clean exposed ferrules that are not located inside the connector accommodating hole
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the alignment function into two separate mechanisms: (1) the nozzle member inserts into the connector accommodating hole for alignment when ferrules are housed, and (2) the attachment with connection members provides alternative alignment reference for exposed ferrules. This segmentation allows each mechanism to specialize in its optimal function while the system as a whole handles both scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment acts as an intermediary component that bridges the gap between the nozzle member and exposed ferrules. The connection members of the attachment provide a physical reference structure that enables alignment with exposed ferrules, serving as a mediator when the original alignment mechanism (nozzle member insertion) cannot be used.
2Measurement precision
If the cleaning tool is designed for a specific ferrule pitch, then the alignment precision for that pitch is improved, but it cannot accommodate optical connectors with different ferrule pitches
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the nozzle members dynamically adjustable in position along the longitudinal axis. The nozzle members can move closer to or away from each other, allowing the cleaning tool to adapt to different ferrule pitches while maintaining precise alignment. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction between fixed precision and variable adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cleaning tools are provided for different ferrule positions and pitches, then the cleaning coverage and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity and operation convenience deteriorate due to tool changes
Solution Approach 1:
The invention integrates multiple functions into a single cleaning tool by combining: (1) the main body with movable nozzle members for handling housed ferrules with adjustable pitch, and (2) the detachable attachment with connection members for handling exposed ferrules. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate tools while maintaining comprehensive cleaning coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment is preliminarily configured with connection members that extend beyond the nozzle members, creating a ready-to-use alignment reference for exposed ferrules. When the attachment is mounted, the alignment capability is already prepared in advance, eliminating the need for complex adjustments or tool changes during operation.
4Ease of operation
If the attachment is made detachable from the cleaning tool, then the ease of operation and storage are improved, but the reliability of maintaining precise alignment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection members of the attachment are designed to automatically follow the relative movement of the nozzle members in the lateral direction. This self-adjusting mechanism ensures that the attachment maintains proper alignment relationship with the nozzle members without requiring complex locking mechanisms or manual adjustment, thus preserving reliability while enabling easy attachment and detachment.
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment cleaning tool includes: a cleaning tool; and an attachment detachably attached to the cleaning tool. The cleaning tool includes: cleaning bodies that clean connection end surfaces of ferrules of an optical connector; head members each that press the cleaning bodies against the connection end surfaces; nozzle members that respectively accommodate the head members; a feeding mechanism that supplies and withdraws the cleaning bodies with respect to the head members; and an accommodating body which accommodates the feeding mechanism. Each of the connection members of the attachment includes: an attachment portion attached to a tip portion of each of the nozzle members; and a tubular portion that protrudes from the attachment portion in a longitudinal direction of the nozzle members and into which one of the ferrules is inserted. The connection members move following a relative movement of the nozzle members in the lateral direction.