Optical Wave Bridge Adapter for Fiber Pitch Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industry users face challenges in connecting fiber optic cables with different fiber pitches, as traditional methods require cutting and re-terminating endpoints, leading to expensive, cumbersome solutions with signal loss and weak points in the system.
Innovation Solution
A bridge adapter with an optical path using total internal reflection and/or embedded fibers, along with alignment features and lenses, allows for quick and cost-effective connection of cables with different fiber pitches, maintaining signal strength by aligning and transmitting optical signals through reflective surfaces or embedded fibers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional cutting and re-terminating methods are used to connect cables with different fiber pitches, then connection compatibility is improved, but system reliability deteriorates due to signal loss and weak points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical wave bridge as an intermediary component that receives optical signals from one fiber pitch and transmits them to another fiber pitch without cutting or re-terminating fibers. The wave bridge maintains continuous optical paths, eliminating weak points while adapting between different fiber pitches, thus resolving the contradiction between connection compatibility and signal strength.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cutting and re-terminating endpoints is performed to connect different fiber pitches, then connection adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical wave bridge is pre-manufactured with built-in different fiber pitch configurations at its endpoints. This preliminary preparation allows cables with different fiber pitches to be connected simply by plugging them into the wave bridge, eliminating the need for costly cutting and re-terminating operations in the field, thus resolving the contradiction between connection adaptability and manufacturing cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional ferrule-terminated fibers are used to bridge different pitches, then connection versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single optical wave bridge component: it combines different fiber pitch adaptations, optical signal transmission, and alignment functions into one integrated device. This eliminates the need for separate ferrule-terminated fibers and complex assembly arrangements, thus resolving the contradiction between connection versatility and device complexity.
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
Enables efficient and inexpensive connection of cables with varying fiber pitches, reducing signal loss and eliminating the need for additional ferrule-terminated fibers, thus preserving signal strength and avoiding costly optical breakout boxes.
Implementation Method 1
an optical wave bridge (107) disposed within the adapter housing (105). The optical wave bridge (107) includes a first ferrule connection (120) and a second ferrule connection (130) having different pitches, and an optical path (175) between the first ferrule connection (120) and the second ferrule connection (130)
Data Source
AI summary
A bridge adapter that includes a first end and a second end. The bridge adapter further including a first ferrule connection on the first end and a second ferrule connection on the second end. The bridge adapter also including an optical path optically connecting the first ferrule connection and the second ferrule connection. Also, a method of connection optical cable having multiple pitches, the method including connecting a first optical cable having a first fiber pitch to a bridge adapter and connection having a second fiber pitch to the bridge adapter. The method further including directing an optical signal through the first optical cable, the bridge adapter, and the second optical cable, wherein the directing includes sending the optical signal through an optical wave bridge in the bridge adapter and having the first fiber pitch on a first end and the second fiber pitch on the second end.