Tuned Fiber Optic Connectors Alignment Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Signal losses occur in fiber optic connections due to manufacturing tolerances, causing misalignment of fibers within ferrules, which leads to inefficient signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
The method involves tuning fiber optic connectors by rotating the hub/ferrule assembly during or after assembly, and using a key member to secure the connector in the optimal position, ensuring precise alignment and minimizing signal loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If fiber optic connectors are assembled using standard manufacturing tolerances, then assembly is straightforward and quick, but fiber alignment precision deteriorates causing signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing tuning operations during the assembly process rather than after completion. The ferrule is positioned and adjusted within the housing while the connector is being assembled, allowing alignment to be established before final assembly steps. This preliminary tuning ensures precise fiber alignment is achieved during manufacturing, eliminating the need for complex post-assembly tuning procedures.
2Reliability
If fiber optic connectors are tuned to optimize alignment, then signal transmission improves, but assembly time and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the tuning process with the assembly process by integrating alignment adjustments into the assembly steps themselves. The ferrule positioning and alignment operations are combined with the housing assembly operations, so that tuning and assembly occur simultaneously rather than as separate sequential processes. This integration maintains signal transmission reliability while reducing total assembly time.
3Manufacturing precision
If manufacturing tolerances are tightened to improve alignment, then fiber alignment precision improves, but manufacturing cost and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the ferrule positioning parameters during assembly rather than relying solely on tight manufacturing tolerances. The tuning process adjusts the ferrule's axial and radial positions within the housing to achieve optimal alignment. This approach allows standard manufacturing tolerances to be used while still achieving high alignment precision through controlled parameter adjustments during assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of tuning a fiber optic connector includes: assembling the fiber optic connector to a partially assembled state; tuning the fiber optic connector in the partially assembled state; assembling the fiber optic connector to an assembled state; and tuning the fiber optic connector in the assembled state.