Optical Fiber Preform Shredding and Suction Disposal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for processing leading ends of optical fiber preforms with non-standard core and cladding diameters result in inefficient use of materials and increased complexity, as they require separate processing apparatuses and excessive coating material usage, posing risks to equipment due to high-temperature glass fibers and fragility issues.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method involving a shredding unit to process glass optical fibers into manageable pieces, which are then suctioned and carried for safe disposal, allowing for continuous optical fiber manufacturing without moving coating units and reducing material waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate processing apparatus with independent pulling mechanism is used to process leading end of optical fiber preform, then the glass optical fiber can be processed, but the apparatus becomes large and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the processing apparatus with the coating unit, allowing the same apparatus to perform both processing of the glass optical fiber and coating formation. This eliminates the need for a separate independent pulling mechanism and reduces overall apparatus complexity while maintaining processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing apparatus is designed to serve multiple functions: it can process glass optical fibers with non-standard dimensions and also form coatings on them. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated equipment for each operation.
2Ease of manufacture
If processing apparatus is arranged directly below draw heating furnace, then processing can be performed, but coating unit must be moved away and troublesome processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the processing apparatus and coating unit into a single integrated system, the patent eliminates the need to move the coating unit away during processing operations. The integrated design allows both functions to coexist in the same spatial location without operational interference.
3Loss of substance
If glass optical fiber is drawn without coating formed, then material is saved, but the glass optical fiber is fragile and broken easily making winding and processing difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies coating formation selectively - it forms a coating on the glass optical fiber after processing, but only when needed for subsequent handling operations. This partial application of coating material balances material conservation with the need for fiber integrity during winding and processing.
4Productivity
If high drawing speed is used, then productivity increases, but high-temperature glass optical fiber might enter processing apparatus damaging it
Solution Approach 1:
The processing apparatus is designed to receive and process the glass optical fiber immediately after it exits the draw heating furnace, while the fiber is still at high temperature. This preliminary processing at high temperature eliminates the need for cooling before processing, allowing high drawing speeds without equipment damage risk.
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
The solution enables efficient processing and disposal of non-standard optical fibers, reducing equipment damage risks and material waste, while allowing for seamless integration with existing manufacturing processes, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a suction unit connected to the carrier pipe and configured to suction the glass optical-fiber pieces via the carrier pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A method of drawing an optical fiber in which a glass optical fiber is drawn while fusing by heating and pulling by a pulling mechanism one end of an optical fiber preform made of glass, includes drawing the glass optical fiber from the one end of the optical fiber preform while controlling a drawing speed to make an external diameter of the glass optical fiber larger than an external diameter of a product-to-be glass-optical fiber to be used to manufacture a product. The method includes adjusting an external diameter of the glass optical fiber to an external diameter passable through a die for forming a coating. The method also includes arranging the die around the glass optical fiber having the external diameter passable through the die.