Passive Docking Structure for Mold-Free Fiber Array Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber array connection technologies require external molds for alignment, which are costly and require different molds for each product model, increasing production costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A passive alignment connection structure using docking devices with alignment portions to directly align and connect optical fiber array modules without external molds, utilizing protruding ribs and grooves for precise alignment and gluing for fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If external molds are used to align optical fiber array modules, then alignment precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the alignment function from external molds and integrates it directly into the docking devices. The alignment portions are built into the docking device structures themselves, eliminating the need for separate external molds while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking devices are designed with multi-functionality, serving both as structural support and alignment mechanisms. The same docking device structure provides both mechanical support and optical fiber alignment functions, reducing the need for additional specialized components like external molds.
2Manufacturing precision
If external molds are used for each product model, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The docking devices are designed with universal applicability, where the same basic structure can accommodate different optical fiber array modules through standardized alignment portions. This reduces the variety of different molds needed for different product models.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment function is segmented into modular alignment portions that can be consistently applied across different docking devices. This modular approach allows the same alignment mechanism to be reused across different product models, reducing overall device complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If external molds are used for alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to additional assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment function is merged with the docking device structure itself. The alignment portions are integrated into the docking devices, combining the alignment function with the existing structural components and eliminating separate alignment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment operation is extracted from the external mold process and embedded directly into the docking device assembly. This integration allows alignment to occur automatically during the docking process, eliminating additional assembly steps and improving productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a passive alignment connection structure. The structure involves a first docking device, having a first frame, a stop frame portion and a first alignment portion, a first accommodation space is defined inside the first frame, the stop frame is disposed in the first frame and divides the first accommodation space inside the first frame into a first accommodation cavity and a second accommodation cavity, the first alignment portion is disposed in a first upper plate portion of the first frame and is disposed adjacent to the first accommodating cavity; and a second docking device, having a second frame and a second alignment portion, the second alignment portion is disposed in a second upper plate portion of the second frame and is disposed corresponding to the first alignment portion, the second alignment portion is combined with the first alignment portion to complete the alignment connection.