Multi-Core Optical Fiber Alignment by End-Face Region Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber alignment methods for multi-core fibers are complex and time-consuming due to the need for extensive pattern matching and scanning of entire end surface images, leading to prolonged processing times.
Innovation Solution
An optical fiber alignment method that utilizes reference arrangement data to measure and align elements on the end surface by rotating the fiber around its central axis, reducing the amount of calculation required and shortening the alignment process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pattern matching and scanning of entire end surface images are performed for alignment, then alignment accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the end surface image into multiple regions and performs pattern matching only in specific regions containing the cores, rather than scanning the entire image. This segmentation approach maintains alignment accuracy while significantly reducing the processing area and time required
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary identification of core positions and arrangement patterns before performing detailed pattern matching. By pre-locating the regions of interest (cores) and their expected arrangements, the system avoids unnecessary scanning of irrelevant areas, thus reducing processing time while maintaining accuracy
2Measurement precision
If extensive pattern matching is performed for multi-core fiber alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment process is segmented into distinct steps: region identification, core position detection, and pattern matching. This segmentation simplifies the overall process by breaking down the complex task into manageable sub-tasks, each with specific objectives and methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs pattern matching only in the necessary regions where cores are located, rather than performing exhaustive matching across the entire end surface image. This partial action approach achieves sufficient alignment precision without the complexity of complete image analysis
Data Source
AI summary
An optical fiber alignment method makes it possible to reduce the time required for alignment work for an optical fiber. This alignment method includes: an image acquisition step of acquiring an end surface image of an optical fiber; a measurement step of measuring arrangement data relating to a plurality of elements from the end surface image; a calculation step of calculating an amount of deviation of each of the plurality of elements from a target element arrangement from a correspondence relationship of the elements between the obtained arrangement data and reference arrangement data for element identification recorded in advance; and an alignment step of rotating the optical fiber around a central axis such that the obtained amount of deviation is reduced.