Rotatable Fiber Measurement Interface for Connector Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical fiber connectors in optical communications systems often have non-horizontal orientations, which hinder efficient scanning by fiber measurement devices due to stability issues and potential damage from repositioning, leading to poor inspection performance and reduced speed.
Innovation Solution
A measurement device interface component with a rotatable structure and adapter that allows the sensor device to adjust orientation independently of the fiber measurement device, using bearings and adapters to maintain stability and alignment, enabling scanning in both horizontal and vertical orientations without rotating the entire device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the fiber measurement device is repositioned to scan non-horizontal connectors, then scanning capability is improved, but stability deteriorates and damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into independent rotatable modules: the sensor device can rotate independently within a bearing, and the adapter can rotate independently relative to the housing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function (scanning adaptation) without compromising the stability of the entire device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic rotation capabilities through bearings and rotatable adapters. The sensor device can dynamically adjust its scanning angle within the bearing, and the adapter can dynamically rotate to match connector orientations. This dynamic adaptability enables scanning of connectors at various angles while maintaining overall device stability through controlled, localized movement rather than repositioning the entire device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the fiber measurement device is repositioned for non-horizontal scanning, then orientation flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation functionality is segmented into distinct components: a bearing for sensor rotation and a rotatable adapter for connector alignment. Each segment handles a specific aspect of orientation adjustment, avoiding the need for complex mechanisms that would require moving the entire device or multiple interconnected moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing acts as an intermediary between the sensor device and the housing, enabling smooth rotation without direct mechanical constraints. The rotatable adapter serves as an intermediary between the adapter component and the fiber connector, facilitating alignment while isolating the complexity of orientation adjustment to specific intermediate components rather than the entire device structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sensor device rotates within the bearing, then scanning direction adaptability is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing provides a simple yet effective dynamic rotation mechanism for the sensor device. Instead of complex multi-axis positioning systems, a single bearing enables the sensor to rotate and adjust its scanning direction adaptably. This dynamic capability is achieved through a straightforward mechanical structure that allows smooth angular adjustment without adding significant structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing enables change in the angular parameter of the sensor device orientation. By allowing rotation around a fixed axis, the system achieves scanning direction adaptability through parameter change (angular position) rather than through complex structural reconfiguration. This simple parameter-based adjustment maintains structural simplicity while providing the needed flexibility.
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
Improves scanning quality and speed by maintaining connector stability and reducing damage, allowing efficient inspection of optical fiber arrays with various orientations.
Implementation Method 1
at least one bearing to receive a fiber measurement device, wherein the bearing is associated with one degree of freedom around an optical axis of the fiber measurement device
Data Source
AI summary
In some implementations, a measurement device interface component includes at least one bearing to receive a fiber measurement device, wherein the bearing is associated with one degree of freedom around an optical axis of the fiber measurement device, and wherein the fiber measurement device is associated with scanning orthogonally to the optical axis of the fiber measurement device; and an adjustment component to rotate the fiber measurement device within the at least one bearing, such that a direction of scanning orthogonal to the optical axis is alterable from a first angular position to a second angular position.