Fusion Splicer V-Groove Stepped Portion Foreign Matter Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fusion splicer methods require additional operations to remove foreign matter adhered between optical fibers and V grooves, increasing the complexity and inefficiency of the fusion splicing process.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a stepped portion on the inclined surface of the V groove in the fusion splicer, which reduces the surface area in contact with the optical fiber, and optionally providing a recess or through hole at the bottom of the V groove to accumulate and discharge foreign matter, thereby minimizing the likelihood of foreign matter adherence and facilitating accurate optical fiber positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a stepped portion is provided on the inclined surface of the V groove to reduce contact surface area with the optical fiber, then foreign matter adhesion is reduced, but the positioning accuracy of the optical fiber may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The inclined surface of the V groove is segmented into multiple regions with different functions: a first region for optical fiber positioning and a second region for foreign matter discharge. This segmentation allows the surface to simultaneously achieve both positioning accuracy and foreign matter reduction by creating distinct functional zones rather than a uniform surface.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the V groove inclined surface are given different local properties: the first region has a specific inclination angle optimized for positioning, while the second region has a different inclination angle optimized for foreign matter discharge. This local differentiation allows each region to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If additional operations are performed to remove foreign matter from the V groove, then foreign matter interference is eliminated, but the fusion splicing process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The V groove structure with its stepped configuration performs self-cleaning by allowing foreign matter to naturally discharge into the second region under gravity or during fiber insertion. This eliminates the need for separate manual cleaning operations, as the structure itself provides the foreign matter removal function.
Solution Approach 2:
The V groove is pre-configured with a stepped structure that creates a discharge path for foreign matter before the fusion splicing operation begins. This preliminary structural preparation ensures that foreign matter is automatically managed during the process, eliminating the need for additional intermediate cleaning steps.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a stepped portion is provided on the V groove inclined surface, then foreign matter adhesion is reduced, but the V groove structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The V groove inclined surface is divided into two distinct regions (first and second regions) with different inclination angles, creating a stepped structure. This segmentation is achieved through simple geometric division rather than complex mechanical components, reducing structural complexity while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The inclination angle parameter of the V groove surface is changed across different regions to create the stepped portion. By varying this single geometric parameter rather than introducing complex shapes or structures, the design achieves foreign matter discharge functionality with minimal increase in structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A fusion splicer for fusion splicing an optical fiber includes a base member having a V groove in which the optical fiber is provided, wherein a stepped portion is provided on an inclined surface of the V groove, and the stepped portion is provided at a position making contact with the optical fiber.