Optical Fiber Preform Center Alignment via Camera Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber manufacturing methods face challenges in accurately centering the optical fiber preform and drawing furnace due to deviations in light source and photodetector positions, requiring periodic maintenance to maintain alignment.
Innovation Solution
An optical fiber manufacturing method and apparatus that uses cameras to capture images of the preform and furnace opening, adjusting the preform position based on these images to ensure center alignment, eliminating the need for periodic maintenance by using multiple cameras and different light wavelengths to enhance image clarity and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a light source and photodetector are used for optical positioning, then non-contact positioning is achieved, but position deviations occur requiring periodic maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses camera imaging to create a visual copy of the preform and furnace opening positions, replacing the light source-photodetector optical positioning system. The captured images provide a permanent record of positions that can be analyzed without requiring precise optical alignment, eliminating the need for periodic maintenance of optical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the optical measurement system (light source and photodetector) with an imaging system (cameras). This substitution transforms the measurement approach from optical detection to visual capture and image processing, which is more tolerant of position deviations and does not require periodic recalibration.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual centering adjustment is used, then alignment is achieved, but time consumption and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-centering by automatically analyzing the captured images to determine the relative positions of the preform and furnace opening. The control unit calculates the required adjustment based on image analysis and autonomously controls the positioning mechanism, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing centering time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback loop where cameras continuously capture images of the preform and furnace opening positions. The control unit processes these images to determine alignment status and automatically adjusts the preform position based on the detected deviation from center alignment, achieving precise and rapid centering.
3Illumination intensity
If single-wavelength light is used for illumination, then simple illumination is provided, but image clarity and detection accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple light sources with different wavelengths (e.g., red and blue LEDs) to illuminate the preform from different directions. This multi-parameter illumination approach enhances image contrast and clarity by highlighting different features of the preform and furnace opening, improving the accuracy of position detection in captured images.
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
This method allows for precise and easy center alignment of the optical fiber preform and furnace, preventing disconnection, asymmetry, and collisions during the drawing process, while reducing the need for frequent maintenance of imaging mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a captured image obtained by simultaneously photographing the optical fiber preform and an opening of the drawing furnace
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an optical fiber manufacturing method where an optical fiber preform is drawn while being heated in a drawing furnace to form an optical fiber, the method including acquiring a captured image obtained by simultaneously photographing the optical fiber preform and an opening of the drawing furnace before drawing the optical fiber preform, and adjusting a position of the optical fiber preform so that a center of the optical fiber preform and a center of the opening match based on the captured image.