Spring-Loaded Ferrule Connector for Laser Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connectors for coupling laser sources into waveguides suffer from significant radiation losses due to poor fiber alignment and mismatch issues, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage to the connectors and waveguides, particularly in medical applications where precise energy delivery is critical.
Innovation Solution
A compact, spring-loaded ferrule connector system with an inner body that moves within an outer body, ensuring precise alignment and secure positioning of the ferrule, combined with an RFID tag for waveguide recognition and optional power/signal ports, to minimize power losses and ensure safe, efficient energy delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional fiber optic connectors are used for coupling laser sources into waveguides, then the connection can be established, but significant radiation losses occur due to poor fiber alignment and end preparation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector performs preliminary alignment actions through the spring-loaded ferrule mechanism that automatically positions the fiber core at the focal point of the lens before full engagement. This preliminary positioning ensures optimal alignment is achieved during the connection process itself, eliminating the need for manual precision alignment and reducing radiation losses from misalignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the connection by using a spring-loaded ferrule that allows longitudinal movement to adjust the fiber-lens distance. This parameter adjustment optimizes the coupling between the fiber core and lens focal point, thereby minimizing radiation losses while maintaining ease of connection.
2Loss of energy
If precise fiber alignment is implemented to reduce coupling loss, then radiation transmission efficiency improves, but the connector complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded ferrule mechanism provides self-alignment functionality, where the spring force automatically positions the fiber at the correct distance from the lens upon insertion. This self-service alignment eliminates the need for complex external alignment mechanisms or manual adjustment procedures, reducing overall connector complexity while maintaining precise alignment for minimal coupling loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded ferrule acts as an intermediary element between the fiber and lens, mediating the alignment process. It provides a controlled, repeatable positioning mechanism that simplifies the connection process while ensuring optimal optical coupling, thereby reducing coupling loss without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the ferrule is exposed outside the connector for easy access, then fiber insertion is simplified, but the ferrule becomes vulnerable to damage and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The ferrule is nested within the protective housing of the connector, with only the necessary portion exposed for fiber insertion. This nested structure protects the ferrule from damage and contamination while maintaining ease of operation, as the fiber can still be inserted through the protected opening without exposing the entire ferrule to external hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design incorporates protective features beforehand, such as the spring-loaded mechanism that controls ferrule exposure and the protective housing that shields the ferrule when not in use. This beforehand cushioning ensures the ferrule is protected from damage and contamination while still allowing easy fiber insertion when needed.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
Connectors for optically coupling radiation accurately from radiation sources into waveguides in medical applications are provided. A preferred embodiment for coupling laser sources into optical fibers provides a connector comprising an outer body for handling connector; a two-part ferrule; an inner body which protects ferrule and holds its two parts together; a collet chuck through which an optical fiber is introduced; a spring; a ferrule interlock; and bending protection with a long fiber protection end. Main features are that the inner body moves within the outer body longitudinally, the spring-loaded ferrules move against a fixed position element in the laser housing via the spring load, and their relative shapes are designed to be assembled in only one possible angle position,thus maintaining alignment of elements to reduce/avoid lost power absorbed by the connector's proximal end due to coupling. The ferrule is mounted inside the connector and does not emerge from it for protecting the ferrule. In another embodiment the connector provides an electronic signature such as an RFID tag for waveguide recognition in a position close enough to the laser source to ensure identification. Additionally, the connector has an optional electric power and signal port.