Optical Fiber Pulling Device with Bidirectional Bobbin Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring optical fiber characteristics require manual operation to pull out both ends of the fiber from a bobbin, which is inefficient and prone to twisting and tension issues.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that utilize a first and second pulling unit to hold and pull out one and then the other end of the optical fiber from a rotating bobbin, with the bobbin rotating in opposite directions to manage tension and prevent twisting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operation is used to pull out both ends of the optical fiber from the bobbin, then the operator can control the pulling process, but the operation is inefficient and prone to twisting and tension issues
Solution Approach 1:
The bobbin is designed to rotate automatically in response to the pulling action itself. When one end of the optical fiber is pulled, the bobbin rotates in the direction that pays out the fiber, and when the pulling direction is reversed, the bobbin rotates back, automatically winding the fiber. This self-rotating mechanism eliminates the need for external rotation control while preventing fiber twisting and tension issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static bobbin to a dynamic one that can rotate in both directions. The bidirectional rotation capability allows the bobbin to adapt to the pulling direction, enabling efficient fiber payout in one direction and controlled rewinding in the opposite direction, thereby maintaining fiber integrity throughout the process.
2Productivity
If the bobbin rotates in a predetermined direction to pull out fiber, then the fiber can be pulled efficiently, but the fiber may become twisted or under excessive tension
Solution Approach 1:
The bobbin performs periodic rotation in alternating directions. During the forward rotation phase, fiber is paid out efficiently; during the reverse rotation phase, the bobbin rewinds the fiber, preventing excessive tension and twisting. This periodic bidirectional rotation creates a balanced cycle that maintains fiber integrity while sustaining high productivity.
3Loss of time
If both ends of the optical fiber are pulled out simultaneously, then the measurement preparation is faster, but the tension distribution becomes uncontrolled
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber pulling process is segmented into sequential phases rather than simultaneous action. The first pulling unit pulls out one end of the fiber while the bobbin rotates in one direction, then the bobbin rotates in the opposite direction to pay out fiber to the second pulling unit. This segmentation allows controlled tension distribution throughout the fiber length while maintaining efficient overall preparation time.
Data Source
AI summary
A device that pulls out an optical fiber includes: a bobbin support that supports a bobbin rotatably about a rotation axis; a first pulling out unit that holds a first end of the optical fiber, pulls out a first portion of the optical fiber wound around the bobbin from a side of the first end in a state where the bobbin rotates in a predetermined direction, and returns a part of the first portion to the bobbin in a state where the bobbin rotates in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction; and a second pulling out unit that holds a second end of the optical fiber after the first pulling out unit pulls out the first portion from the side of the first end, and pulls out a second portion of the optical fiber wound around the bobbin from a side of the second end.