Optical Fiber Clad Processing for Precise Light Output Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Forming windows at the clad of an optical fiber is difficult and time-consuming using conventional machining methods.
Innovation Solution
An optical fiber processing apparatus that uses high-speed rotating processing rods with machining tips to form light output windows at the clad, aided by a sensing tube to control processing depth and a coolant system for precise and efficient window formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional machining methods are used to form windows at the clad of an optical fiber, then the window formation can be achieved, but the processing time becomes long and mechanical errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical machining methods with a laser-based system. The laser beam is focused on the clad of the optical fiber to melt and evaporate the material, forming windows without mechanical contact. This substitution of mechanical system with optical/thermal field eliminates mechanical errors and significantly reduces processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental processing parameter from mechanical force to optical energy density. By controlling laser parameters such as power, pulse duration, and scanning speed, the system achieves precise window formation. The laser parameters are adjusted to optimize the balance between processing speed and precision, resolving the contradiction between productivity and manufacturing precision.
2Productivity
If high-speed rotating processing rods with machining tips are used, then processing speed increases, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for high-speed rotating processing rods by using a laser-based system. The laser beam can be rapidly scanned across the optical fiber surface, achieving high processing speed without requiring mechanical rotation. This substitution significantly reduces device complexity while maintaining or improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic scanning of the laser beam across the optical fiber surface to form windows. The scanning mechanism moves the laser focus point systematically, creating multiple windows or processing different sections of the fiber. This periodic scanning action achieves high processing speed without the need for complex rotating mechanical structures.
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 quick and accurate formation of light output windows on the optical fiber clad, reducing processing time and minimizing mechanical errors, thereby enhancing the fiber's functionality for applications such as solar power generation and displays.
Implementation Method 1
a laser beam is focused on a clad of the optical fiber to melt and evaporate the clad, thereby forming a light output window
Implementation Method 2
a coolant system for precise and efficient window formation
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is an optical fiber processing apparatus comprising: an optical fiber machining head provided with a fiber proceeding tunnel, through which an optical fiber passes, and a plurality of processing rod insertion holes formed in the circumference of the proceeding tunnel in a direction perpendicular to the tunnel; a processing rod having a machining tip for processing the optical fiber in the proceeding tunnel through the processing rod insertion hole; and an actuator operating a processing drill.