Optical Fiber Sensor Fixing Structure for Mold Ejector Pin Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical fibers installed in molds are prone to damage due to twisting forces generated by the movement of ejector pins, leading to stress concentration at bending portions and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A sensor design featuring a fiber holder with a fixing portion and a to-be-fixed portion that are either integrally formed or provided as separate members, where the to-be-fixed portion is fitted into a recess with increased contact area and secured using a screw member, preventing deformation and damage from twisting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the optical fiber is bent to prevent damage from impact, then the optical fiber is protected from impact damage, but twisting forces during ejector pin movement cause stress concentration and potential damage at the bending portion
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber path is segmented into distinct functional zones: a bent portion for impact protection, a straight portion for signal transmission, and a secured portion fixed to the ejector pin. This segmentation allows each portion to optimize its function without compromising the others, particularly protecting the bending area from twisting stresses.
Solution Approach 2:
A fixing structure (adhesive layer or fixing member) is introduced as an intermediary between the optical fiber and the ejector pin. This intermediary component absorbs and distributes twisting forces, preventing direct stress transmission to the vulnerable bending portion of the optical fiber while maintaining secure fixation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the optical fiber is secured firmly to prevent movement, then positioning stability is improved, but the rigid fixation may increase stress during ejector pin movement
Solution Approach 1:
An adhesive layer is used as a flexible intermediary between the optical fiber and the ejector pin. This thin film provides secure fixation while accommodating movement and absorbing stress, preventing rigid transmission of forces to the optical fiber during ejector pin operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor installed into a mold including a cable insertion member having a fixing portion with a fitting recess is provided. The sensor includes an optical fiber a part of which is bendable, and a fiber holder having a fiber insertion portion through which the optical fiber is inserted and a to-be-fixed portion extending from the fiber insertion portion. Further, the to-be-fixed portion is fixed to the fixing portion while being fitted to the fitting recess.