WO2011087075A1 - Apparatus for cutting optical fiber - Google Patents

Apparatus for cutting optical fiber Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2011087075A1
WO2011087075A1 PCT/JP2011/050505 JP2011050505W WO2011087075A1 WO 2011087075 A1 WO2011087075 A1 WO 2011087075A1 JP 2011050505 W JP2011050505 W JP 2011050505W WO 2011087075 A1 WO2011087075 A1 WO 2011087075A1
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Prior art keywords
optical fiber
blade
cutting
degrees
lever
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PCT/JP2011/050505
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French (fr)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
誠 岩松
雅史 石原
武司 佐藤
学 田端
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株式会社フジクラ
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Publication of WO2011087075A1 publication Critical patent/WO2011087075A1/en

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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
    • G02B6/25—Preparing the ends of light guides for coupling, e.g. cutting

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an optical fiber cutting device for cutting an optical fiber.
  • the optical fiber It is necessary to cut the optical fiber in order to adjust the length of the optical fiber or to connect the optical fibers. Since the optical fiber is made of a brittle material such as glass, it can be easily cut by scratching with a blade and applying a slight tension. In order to suppress light scattering loss due to the cut surface, a cut surface that is as flat as possible is necessary. However, a relatively good cut surface can be obtained by such a simple method.
  • Japanese Patent Application Publication Nos. 2005-173183 and 2000-56140 disclose related technologies related to an optical fiber cutting device.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for cutting an optical fiber that can ensure a long life while being able to form a good cut surface.
  • an apparatus for cutting an optical fiber includes a support for supporting the optical fiber, and a cutting edge angle of not less than 75 degrees and not more than 105 degrees, and is made of single crystal diamond. A blade.
  • FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram for explaining a process of cutting an optical fiber by the apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and shows a stage before pressing the optical fiber against a blade.
  • FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a process of cutting an optical fiber, and shows a step of pressing the optical fiber against a blade.
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing an enlarged relationship between the blade and the optical fiber in the apparatus.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of the apparatus.
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which an optical fiber is placed on the support of the apparatus.
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which the optical fiber is pressed against the blade by tilting the lever.
  • FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram for explaining a process of cutting an optical fiber by the apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and shows a stage before pressing the optical fiber against a blade.
  • FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a process of cutting
  • FIG. 6 is a graph showing the experimental results of examining the influence of the edge angle on the blade life (number of cuttings).
  • FIG. 7 is a graph showing experimental results of examining the influence of the edge angle on the angle of the cut surface.
  • FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram for explaining a process of cutting an optical fiber according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and shows a stage before the optical fiber is pressed against a blade.
  • FIG. 8B is a schematic diagram illustrating a process of cutting an optical fiber according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and shows a step of pressing the optical fiber against a blade.
  • FIGS. 1A-8B An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to FIGS. 1A-8B.
  • the operation of the optical fiber cutting device 10 can be roughly described as follows with reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2.
  • the optical fiber 1 is supported by an appropriate holder 2, and more preferably by a pair of supports 6 and 7. Between the support bodies 6 and 7, the blade 5 and the pressing member 8 facing the blade 5 are positioned.
  • the blade 5 is fixed to the base 4, and the base 4 is preferably supported by the spring 3, so that the blade 5 and the base 4 can move elastically perpendicular to the direction in which the optical fiber 1 travels. Yes.
  • FIG. 1B for example, the optical fiber 1 is pressed against the blade 5 by slightly moving the pressing member 8 toward the blade 5. At this time, the optical fiber 1 is scratched and slightly tensioned, so that the optical fiber 1 is cut.
  • the holder 2 normally supports the optical fiber 1 in the jacket portion 1G.
  • a pair of clamps 6A and 6B and a pair of clamps 7A and 7B may be applied to the supports 6 and 7, respectively, so that the optical fiber 1 can be gripped.
  • the blade 5 is preferably fixed by being embedded in the table 4.
  • the cutting edge 5 ⁇ / b> A of the blade 5 protrudes upward from the table 4.
  • a groove 18 is preferably formed in a portion of the pressing member 8 that faces the cutting edge 5A. The groove 18 prevents the cutting edge 5A from directly interfering with the pressing member 8, and prevents an excessive stress in the width direction from being applied to the optical fiber 1.
  • the optical fiber cutting device 10 includes a mechanism 11 for pressing the optical fiber 1 against the blade 5.
  • the mechanism 11 includes a base 13, a shaft 14, and a lever 15.
  • the lever 15 is rotatable with respect to the base 13 about the shaft 14.
  • the base 13 includes lower clamps 6 ⁇ / b> A and 7 ⁇ / b> A that are fixed to the base 13 at intervals and a base 4 that includes the blade 5.
  • the base 4 is positioned between the lower clamps 6A and 7A.
  • the lever 15 is positioned so as to face the lower clamps 6A, 7A, and the upper clamps 6B, 7B fixed to the lever 15 so as to rotate together, and the pressing member 8 positioned so as to face the blade 5.
  • the pressing member 8 may be directly fixed to the lever 15 or may be attached to the lever 15 via an appropriate elastic member.
  • the base 13 includes a holder mounting portion 16 adjacent to the lower clamp 6A.
  • the holder mounting portion 16 has a recess suitable for fitting the holder 2, and preferably includes a tap for pressing the holder 2 from above so that the holder 2 can be temporarily fixed.
  • a guide groove is preferably provided to guide the optical fiber 1.
  • a guide groove may be further provided on the holder mounting portion 16 or close to the lower clamp 6A.
  • the blade 5 is made of an appropriate hard material and is fixed to the table 4.
  • An example of such a hard material is diamond, but if possible, an appropriate hard material such as ruby, sapphire, or cemented carbide may be applied instead of diamond.
  • Sintered particles (polycrystals) of these materials may be used, but single crystals are advantageous from the viewpoint of blade stability.
  • the cutting edge 5A is sharpened to scratch the optical fiber 1.
  • the cutting edge 5A of the blade 5 is given an appropriate cutting edge angle ⁇ as shown in FIG. Although the reason will be described later, the cutting edge angle ⁇ is preferably 75 degrees or more and 105 degrees or less.
  • the upper surface 4a of the base 4 includes a groove 17 having a shape suitable for the blade 5 to be fitted.
  • the blade 5 is fitted into the groove 17 by being press-fitted into the groove 17, and is fixed to the table 4. From the viewpoint of ensuring a more secure fixation, an adhesive is preferably further applied.
  • the blade 5 protrudes upward from the upper surface 4a in a state where the blade 5 is fitted in the groove 17.
  • the base 4 is provided with a protrusion 9 so as to overhang the groove 17.
  • the protrusion 9 protrudes so as to cover the skirts of the inclined surfaces 5A1 and 5A2 on both sides of the blade edge 5A.
  • the base 4 together with the protrusions 9 is preferably suitably hard, but made of a material having a lower hardness than the bare fiber of the optical fiber 1. Examples of such materials include metals such as stainless steel and resins such as polyacetal (POM).
  • POM polyacetal
  • the base 4 made of such a material prevents the end portions 1a and 1b of the optical fiber 1 from being damaged.
  • the protruding height H from the upper surface 4a to the upper end of the cutting edge 5A and the width W from the center of the cutting edge 5A to the root of the protruding portion are both about 0.1 mm.
  • the stand 4 is supported by a spring 3 as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. This is advantageous in preventing an excessive load from being applied to the optical fiber 1.
  • the lever 15 is attached to the base 13 via the shaft 14 and is rotatable with respect to the base 13 about the shaft 14.
  • the lever 15 is shaped to be easily pushed down by the operator's hand.
  • the shaft 14 is provided with a return spring that urges the lever 15 in the direction of pushing it up. As a result, the lever 15 is automatically returned to the original position when the lever 15 is released after being pushed down by the hand.
  • the lever 15 includes a pressing member 8 positioned so as to face the blade 5. When the lever 15 is pushed down, the pressing member 8 is brought closer to the blade 5 along with the lever 15.
  • the lever 15 is provided with an arm for supporting the upper clamps 6B and 7B, although it is hidden and cannot be seen in FIG.
  • the arm is preferably attached to the lever 15 so as to be able to rotate, swing or bend, and an elastic member such as a spring is interposed between the lever 15 and the arm.
  • an elastic member such as a spring is interposed between the lever 15 and the arm.
  • the lever 15 is preferably provided with a stopper for restricting the rotation, swinging or bending of the arm so that the arm is positioned.
  • a stopper for restricting the rotation, swinging or bending of the arm so that the arm is positioned.
  • the upper clamp 6B comes in contact with the lower clamp 6A before the upper clamp 7B.
  • the process of cutting the optical fiber 1 by the optical fiber cutting device 10 is as follows.
  • the optical fiber 1 is fixed to the holder 2, and the holder 2 is mounted on the holder mounting portion 16.
  • the optical fiber 1 is appropriately positioned and placed on the lower clamps 6A and 7A.
  • the cutting edge 5 ⁇ / b> A is at a slightly lower position so as not to contact the optical fiber 1.
  • the lever 15 is initially open, but is closed as shown in FIG. 5 by being pushed down by hand.
  • the clamp 6 on the side close to the holder mounting portion 16 grips the optical fiber 1 prior to the clamp 7, and then the clamp 7 grips the optical fiber 1.
  • FIG. 1A shows this state.
  • the lever 15 is further pushed down. Then, the pressing member 8 pushes the optical fiber 1 in the direction of the blade 5 and presses it against the blade edge 5A, whereby the optical fiber 1 is damaged.
  • the optical fiber 1 is pressed by the pressing member 8 to be tensioned, and the optical fiber 1 is broken as shown in FIG.
  • the end 1a and the end 1b of the optical fiber 1 after cutting do not come into contact with the cutting edge 5A again, and are received by the table 4 on the protrusion 9 as shown in FIG.
  • the optical fiber can be cut only by placing the optical fiber on the apparatus and pushing down the lever. That is, the operation is extremely simple and does not require high skill from the operator.
  • the blade edge angle ⁇ is preferably relatively small, for example, it was considered that a range of 30 degrees or less is preferable.
  • Blades having blade edge angles ⁇ of 60 degrees, 75 degrees, 90 degrees, 105 degrees, and 120 degrees were prepared and attached to the optical fiber cutting device 10 described above, and an experiment for cutting an optical fiber was performed.
  • the quality of the cut surface was also examined.
  • the cut surface after cutting was examined, and the angle formed by the cut surface (hereinafter referred to as the cutting angle) was measured with respect to the direction orthogonal to the traveling direction of the optical fiber, and the result shown in FIG. 7 was obtained.
  • the results are shown in FIG.
  • the cutting angle varies, so the maximum value (indicated by x in the figure), minimum value (also-), and average value (also ⁇ ) are measured. Has been.
  • the cutting angle is ideally 0 degree, and it is expected that the scattering loss is minimized at this time. Practically, the cutting angle is managed to be 1 degree or less, for example. As understood from FIG. 7, when the blade angle ⁇ is 120 degrees, the maximum cutting angle exceeds 1 degree. However, if the cutting edge angle ⁇ is 105 degrees or less, the cutting angle is less than 1 degree, that is, a sufficiently good cutting surface is obtained.
  • the blade edge angle ⁇ is preferably 75 degrees or more, and from the viewpoint of obtaining a good cut surface, the blade edge angle ⁇ is preferably 105 degrees or less. More preferably, the cutting edge angle ⁇ is about 90 degrees.
  • the optical fiber is pushed in the direction of the blade, but may be deformed so as to push the blade in the direction of the optical fiber.
  • 8A and 8B are diagrams schematically illustrating the second embodiment modified in such a manner.
  • the length of the spring 3 is appropriately adjusted in advance so that the blade 5 comes into contact with the optical fiber 1 supported by the clamps 6 and 7.
  • a means for locking the table 4 is provided, the table 4 is locked so that the blade 5 does not contact the optical fiber 1 as shown in FIG. 8A, and the spring 3 is compressed.
  • the locking means is released, and the blade 5 is pushed up toward the optical fiber 1 by the biasing force of the spring 3.
  • FIG. 8B the blade 5 is pressed against the optical fiber 1 to perform cutting.
  • a slight tension may be applied to the clamps 6 and 7 in directions away from each other. Such tension promotes cutting of the optical fiber 1.
  • the blade edge angle ⁇ is preferably 75 degrees or more from the viewpoint of extending the blade life, and the blade edge angle ⁇ is preferably 105 degrees or less from the viewpoint of obtaining a good cut surface. More preferably, the cutting edge angle ⁇ is about 90 degrees.
  • An apparatus for cutting an optical fiber capable of ensuring a long life while being able to form a good cut surface is provided.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Light Guides In General And Applications Therefor (AREA)

Abstract

Disclosed is an apparatus for cutting an optical fiber, which is provided with: a supporting body that supports the optical fiber; and a blade, which has a blade edge angle of 75 to 105 degrees, and which is composed of a single crystal diamond.

Description

光ファイバ切断装置Optical fiber cutting device
　本発明は、光ファイバを切断するための光ファイバ切断装置に関する。 The present invention relates to an optical fiber cutting device for cutting an optical fiber.
　光ファイバの長さを調整したり、光ファイバ同士を接続するために、光ファイバを切断する必要が生じる。光ファイバはガラスのような脆性材料よりなるため、刃により傷を付けて僅かに張力を与えれば、これを簡単に切断することができる。切断面による光の散乱損失を抑制するために、できるだけ平坦な切断面が必要であるが、このように簡単な方法によっても比較的に良好な切断面が得られる。 It is necessary to cut the optical fiber in order to adjust the length of the optical fiber or to connect the optical fibers. Since the optical fiber is made of a brittle material such as glass, it can be easily cut by scratching with a blade and applying a slight tension. In order to suppress light scattering loss due to the cut surface, a cut surface that is as flat as possible is necessary. However, a relatively good cut surface can be obtained by such a simple method.
　日本国特許出願公開２００５－１７３１８３号や２０００－５６１４０号は、光ファイバ切断装置に関する関連技術を開示している。 Japanese Patent Application Publication Nos. 2005-173183 and 2000-56140 disclose related technologies related to an optical fiber cutting device.
　良好な切断面を得るためには、もちろんのこと、鋭利な刃が必要である。また刃先の角度は重要な要素であり、当業者の常識によれば、より小さな刃先角が好ましいと認識されている。例えば上述の２００５－１７３１８３号は、３０度以下の刃先角が好ましいことを報告している（００２７段落参照）。 Needless to say, a sharp blade is necessary to obtain a good cut surface. Further, the angle of the blade edge is an important factor, and according to common knowledge of those skilled in the art, it is recognized that a smaller blade edge angle is preferable. For example, the above-mentioned 2005-173183 reports that a cutting edge angle of 30 degrees or less is preferable (see paragraph 0027).
　本発明は、良好な切断面の形成が可能でありながら、長寿命を確保できる光ファイバを切断するための装置を提供することを目的とする。 An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for cutting an optical fiber that can ensure a long life while being able to form a good cut surface.
　本発明の一局面によれば、光ファイバを切断するための装置は、前記光ファイバを支持するための支持体と、７５度以上１０５度以下の刃先角を有し、単結晶のダイヤモンドよりなる刃と、を備える。 According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for cutting an optical fiber includes a support for supporting the optical fiber, and a cutting edge angle of not less than 75 degrees and not more than 105 degrees, and is made of single crystal diamond. A blade.
図１Ａは、本発明の第１の実施形態による装置によって光ファイバを切断する過程を説明する模式図であって、光ファイバを刃に押し付ける前の段階を示す。FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram for explaining a process of cutting an optical fiber by the apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and shows a stage before pressing the optical fiber against a blade. 図１Ｂは、光ファイバを切断する過程を説明する模式図であって、光ファイバを刃に押し付ける段階を示す。FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a process of cutting an optical fiber, and shows a step of pressing the optical fiber against a blade. 図２は、前記装置において、刃と光ファイバとの関係を拡大して示す模式図である。FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing an enlarged relationship between the blade and the optical fiber in the apparatus. 図３は、前記装置の全体的な外観を示す斜視図である。FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of the apparatus. 図４は、前記装置の支持体上に光ファイバを置いた状態を示す斜視図である。FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which an optical fiber is placed on the support of the apparatus. 図５は、レバーを倒すことにより光ファイバを刃に押し付けた状態を示す斜視図である。FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which the optical fiber is pressed against the blade by tilting the lever. 図６は、刃の寿命（切断回数）に及ぼす刃先角の影響を調べた実験結果を示すグラフである。FIG. 6 is a graph showing the experimental results of examining the influence of the edge angle on the blade life (number of cuttings). 図７は、切断面の角度に及ぼす刃先角の影響を調べた実験結果を示すグラフである。FIG. 7 is a graph showing experimental results of examining the influence of the edge angle on the angle of the cut surface. 図８Ａは、本発明の第２の実施形態によって光ファイバを切断する過程を説明する模式図であって、光ファイバを刃に押し付ける前の段階を示す。FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram for explaining a process of cutting an optical fiber according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and shows a stage before the optical fiber is pressed against a blade. 図８Ｂは、本発明の第２の実施形態によって光ファイバを切断する過程を説明する模式図であって、光ファイバを刃に押し付ける段階を示す。FIG. 8B is a schematic diagram illustrating a process of cutting an optical fiber according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and shows a step of pressing the optical fiber against a blade.
　本発明の例示的な実施形態を図１Ａから８Ｂを参照して以下に説明する。 An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to FIGS. 1A-8B.
　本発明の第１の実施形態によれば、光ファイバ切断装置１０の作用は、図１Ａ、１Ｂ及び２を参照して、概略的に以下のように説明することができる。 According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the operation of the optical fiber cutting device 10 can be roughly described as follows with reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2.
　図１Ａに示すように、光ファイバ１は、適宜のホルダ２により支持され、さらに好ましくは一対の支持体６，７により支持される。支持体６，７の間に、刃５および刃５に対向した押付部材８が位置せしめられている。刃５は台４に固定され、台４は好ましくはバネ３により支持されることにより、刃５は台４とともに、光ファイバ１が走行する方向に対して直交に弾性的に移動可能にされている。図１Ｂのごとく、例えば押付部材８を刃５に向かって僅かに移動することにより、光ファイバ１が刃５に押し付けられる。この時、光ファイバ１に傷が付けられると共に、僅かに張力が与えられるので、光ファイバ１が切断される。通常、切断の対象となるのは、光ファイバ１のうち外被を除去した部分である。一方、通常、ホルダ２は外被部分１Ｇにおいて光ファイバ１を支持する。支持体６，７には、それぞれ一対のクランプ６Ａ，６Ｂおよび一対のクランプ７Ａ，７Ｂを適用して、光ファイバ１を把持できるようにしてもよい。 As shown in FIG. 1A, the optical fiber 1 is supported by an appropriate holder 2, and more preferably by a pair of supports 6 and 7. Between the support bodies 6 and 7, the blade 5 and the pressing member 8 facing the blade 5 are positioned. The blade 5 is fixed to the base 4, and the base 4 is preferably supported by the spring 3, so that the blade 5 and the base 4 can move elastically perpendicular to the direction in which the optical fiber 1 travels. Yes. As shown in FIG. 1B, for example, the optical fiber 1 is pressed against the blade 5 by slightly moving the pressing member 8 toward the blade 5. At this time, the optical fiber 1 is scratched and slightly tensioned, so that the optical fiber 1 is cut. Usually, what is to be cut is a portion of the optical fiber 1 from which the jacket has been removed. On the other hand, the holder 2 normally supports the optical fiber 1 in the jacket portion 1G. A pair of clamps 6A and 6B and a pair of clamps 7A and 7B may be applied to the supports 6 and 7, respectively, so that the optical fiber 1 can be gripped.
　図２を参照するに、刃５は好ましくは台４に埋め込まれることにより固定されている。刃５の刃先５Ａは、台４から上方に突出している。押付部材８において刃先５Ａと対向する部位には、好ましくは溝１８が形成される。溝１８は、刃先５Ａが押付部材８と直接に干渉することを防止し、また光ファイバ１に過大な幅方向応力を印加することも防止する。 Referring to FIG. 2, the blade 5 is preferably fixed by being embedded in the table 4. The cutting edge 5 </ b> A of the blade 5 protrudes upward from the table 4. A groove 18 is preferably formed in a portion of the pressing member 8 that faces the cutting edge 5A. The groove 18 prevents the cutting edge 5A from directly interfering with the pressing member 8, and prevents an excessive stress in the width direction from being applied to the optical fiber 1.
　図３乃至５を参照するに、本実施形態による光ファイバ切断装置１０は、光ファイバ１を刃５に押し付けるための機構１１を備えている。 3 to 5, the optical fiber cutting device 10 according to the present embodiment includes a mechanism 11 for pressing the optical fiber 1 against the blade 5.
　機構１１は、ベース１３と、軸１４と、レバー１５とを備える。レバー１５は軸１４を中心としてベース１３に対して回動可能である。ベース１３は、間隔をおいてベース１３に固定された下クランプ６Ａ，７Ａと、刃５を備えた台４とを備える。台４は、下クランプ６Ａ，７Ａの間に位置せしめられている。レバー１５は、下クランプ６Ａ，７Ａと対向するべく位置せしめられ、共に回動するべくレバー１５に固定された上クランプ６Ｂ，７Ｂと、刃５に対向するべく位置せしめられた押付部材８とを備える。押付部材８は、レバー１５に直接に固定されていてもよいし、適宜の弾性部材を介してレバー１５に取り付けられていてもよい。 The mechanism 11 includes a base 13, a shaft 14, and a lever 15. The lever 15 is rotatable with respect to the base 13 about the shaft 14. The base 13 includes lower clamps 6 </ b> A and 7 </ b> A that are fixed to the base 13 at intervals and a base 4 that includes the blade 5. The base 4 is positioned between the lower clamps 6A and 7A. The lever 15 is positioned so as to face the lower clamps 6A, 7A, and the upper clamps 6B, 7B fixed to the lever 15 so as to rotate together, and the pressing member 8 positioned so as to face the blade 5. Prepare. The pressing member 8 may be directly fixed to the lever 15 or may be attached to the lever 15 via an appropriate elastic member.
　ベース１３は、下クランプ６Ａに近接して、ホルダ装着部１６を備える。ホルダ装着部１６は、ホルダ２を嵌めこむのに適した窪みを有し、好ましくはホルダ２を上方から押さえるタップを備えて、ホルダ２を仮に固定することができる。ホルダ装着部１６から遠い側にある下クランプ７Ａに近接して、好ましくはガイド溝が設けられ、光ファイバ１を案内する。ホルダ装着部１６上に、または下クランプ６Ａに近接して、ガイド溝をさらに設けてもよい。 The base 13 includes a holder mounting portion 16 adjacent to the lower clamp 6A. The holder mounting portion 16 has a recess suitable for fitting the holder 2, and preferably includes a tap for pressing the holder 2 from above so that the holder 2 can be temporarily fixed. In the vicinity of the lower clamp 7A on the side far from the holder mounting portion 16, a guide groove is preferably provided to guide the optical fiber 1. A guide groove may be further provided on the holder mounting portion 16 or close to the lower clamp 6A.
　刃５は、適宜の硬質材料よりなり、台４に固定されている。このような硬質材料としては、ダイヤモンドが例示できるが、可能ならば、ダイヤモンドに代えて、ルビー、サファイヤ、あるいは超硬合金等の適宜の硬質材料を適用してもよい。これらの材料の粒子を焼結したもの（多結晶）でもよいが、刃の安定性の観点からは単結晶が有利である。 The blade 5 is made of an appropriate hard material and is fixed to the table 4. An example of such a hard material is diamond, but if possible, an appropriate hard material such as ruby, sapphire, or cemented carbide may be applied instead of diamond. Sintered particles (polycrystals) of these materials may be used, but single crystals are advantageous from the viewpoint of blade stability.
　刃先５Ａは、光ファイバ１に傷を付けるべく、鋭利にされている。刃５の刃先５Ａは、図２のごとく適宜の刃先角θを与えられている。理由は後述するが、刃先角θは好ましくは７５度以上１０５度以下である。 The cutting edge 5A is sharpened to scratch the optical fiber 1. The cutting edge 5A of the blade 5 is given an appropriate cutting edge angle θ as shown in FIG. Although the reason will be described later, the cutting edge angle θ is preferably 75 degrees or more and 105 degrees or less.
　台４の上面４ａは、刃５が嵌合するのに適した形状を有する溝１７を備える。刃５は、溝１７に圧入されることによりこれと嵌合し、以って台４に固定される。より確実な固定を保証する観点から、好ましくはさらに接着剤が適用される。刃５は、溝１７内に嵌め込まれた状態で、その刃先５Ａを上面４ａから上方に突出させている。 The upper surface 4a of the base 4 includes a groove 17 having a shape suitable for the blade 5 to be fitted. The blade 5 is fitted into the groove 17 by being press-fitted into the groove 17, and is fixed to the table 4. From the viewpoint of ensuring a more secure fixation, an adhesive is preferably further applied. The blade 5 protrudes upward from the upper surface 4a in a state where the blade 5 is fitted in the groove 17.
　台４は、溝１７上に張り出すように、突起９を備える。突起９は、刃先５Ａの両側の傾斜面５Ａ１，５Ａ２の裾部を覆うように、張り出している。突起９とともに台４は、好ましくは適宜に硬く、しかし光ファイバ１のベアファイバよりは低硬度の素材よりなる。そのような素材として、例えばステンレス等の金属や、ポリアセタール（ＰＯＭ）等の樹脂が例示できる。このような素材よりなる台４は、光ファイバ１の端部１ａ，１ｂが傷つくことを防止する。上面４ａから刃先５Ａの上端までの突出高さＨ、および刃先５Ａの中央から突出部分の根元までの幅Ｗは、ともに０．１ｍｍ程度である。 The base 4 is provided with a protrusion 9 so as to overhang the groove 17. The protrusion 9 protrudes so as to cover the skirts of the inclined surfaces 5A1 and 5A2 on both sides of the blade edge 5A. The base 4 together with the protrusions 9 is preferably suitably hard, but made of a material having a lower hardness than the bare fiber of the optical fiber 1. Examples of such materials include metals such as stainless steel and resins such as polyacetal (POM). The base 4 made of such a material prevents the end portions 1a and 1b of the optical fiber 1 from being damaged. The protruding height H from the upper surface 4a to the upper end of the cutting edge 5A and the width W from the center of the cutting edge 5A to the root of the protruding portion are both about 0.1 mm.
　台４は、図１Ａ，１Ｂにおいて示されているように、バネ３により支持されている。これは、光ファイバ１に過大な荷重がかかることを防止するのに有利である。 The stand 4 is supported by a spring 3 as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. This is advantageous in preventing an excessive load from being applied to the optical fiber 1.
　レバー１５は、軸１４を介してベース１３に取り付けられており、軸１４を中心としてベース１３に対して回動可能である。レバー１５は、作業者の手で押し下げ易い形状にされている。好ましくは軸１４に、レバー１５を押し上げる方向に付勢する復帰バネが備えられる。これにより、レバー１５は、手で押し下げた後、手を離せば自動的に元の位置に復帰する。 The lever 15 is attached to the base 13 via the shaft 14 and is rotatable with respect to the base 13 about the shaft 14. The lever 15 is shaped to be easily pushed down by the operator's hand. Preferably, the shaft 14 is provided with a return spring that urges the lever 15 in the direction of pushing it up. As a result, the lever 15 is automatically returned to the original position when the lever 15 is released after being pushed down by the hand.
　レバー１５は、刃５に対向するべく位置せしめられた押付部材８を備える。レバー１５が押し下げられると、レバー１５に伴って押付部材８が刃５に向かって近接せしめられる。 The lever 15 includes a pressing member 8 positioned so as to face the blade 5. When the lever 15 is pushed down, the pressing member 8 is brought closer to the blade 5 along with the lever 15.
　さらにレバー１５は、図３では隠れていて見えないが、上クランプ６Ｂ，７Ｂを支持するためのアームを備える。アームは、好ましくはレバー１５に対して回動、揺動または屈伸可能に取り付けられ、さらにレバー１５とアームとの間にバネのごとき弾性部材が介在している。レバー１５が押し下げられると、これに伴って動くアームに取り付けられた上クランプ６Ｂ，７Ｂが、下クランプ６Ａ，７Ａに押し付けられる。この際に弾性部材は撓み、適宜の付勢力がクランプ６，７に印加されて、光ファイバ１がクランプ６，７に把持される。 Further, the lever 15 is provided with an arm for supporting the upper clamps 6B and 7B, although it is hidden and cannot be seen in FIG. The arm is preferably attached to the lever 15 so as to be able to rotate, swing or bend, and an elastic member such as a spring is interposed between the lever 15 and the arm. When the lever 15 is pushed down, the upper clamps 6B and 7B attached to the moving arm are pushed against the lower clamps 6A and 7A. At this time, the elastic member bends, an appropriate biasing force is applied to the clamps 6 and 7, and the optical fiber 1 is gripped by the clamps 6 and 7.
　レバー１５は、好ましくはアームの回動、揺動または屈伸を規制するストッパを備え、以ってアームが位置決めされる。好ましくはアームの位置を若干異ならせることにより、レバー１５が押し下げられた時に、上クランプ６Ｂは上クランプ７Ｂより先行して、下クランプ６Ａに接する。 The lever 15 is preferably provided with a stopper for restricting the rotation, swinging or bending of the arm so that the arm is positioned. Preferably, by slightly changing the position of the arm, when the lever 15 is pushed down, the upper clamp 6B comes in contact with the lower clamp 6A before the upper clamp 7B.
　光ファイバ切断装置１０による光ファイバ１の切断の工程は、以下のようである。 The process of cutting the optical fiber 1 by the optical fiber cutting device 10 is as follows.
　図４を参照するに、光ファイバ１はホルダ２に固定され、ホルダ２はホルダ装着部１６に装着される。光ファイバ１は、適宜に位置あわせされて、下クランプ６Ａ，７Ａ上に載せられる。この時、刃先５Ａは、光ファイバ１に接しないよう、やや低い位置にある。 Referring to FIG. 4, the optical fiber 1 is fixed to the holder 2, and the holder 2 is mounted on the holder mounting portion 16. The optical fiber 1 is appropriately positioned and placed on the lower clamps 6A and 7A. At this time, the cutting edge 5 </ b> A is at a slightly lower position so as not to contact the optical fiber 1.
　レバー１５は、当初開いた状態にあるが、手により押し下げられることにより図５に示すように閉じられる。この過程で、ホルダ装着部１６に近い側にあるクランプ６は、クランプ７よりも先行して光ファイバ１を把持し、次いでクランプ７が光ファイバ１を把持する。図１Ａはこの状態を示している。 The lever 15 is initially open, but is closed as shown in FIG. 5 by being pushed down by hand. In this process, the clamp 6 on the side close to the holder mounting portion 16 grips the optical fiber 1 prior to the clamp 7, and then the clamp 7 grips the optical fiber 1. FIG. 1A shows this state.
　光ファイバ１が上述のように支持された状態で、レバー１５は更に押し下げられる。すると、押付部材８が光ファイバ１を刃５の方向へ押し、刃先５Ａに押圧することにより、光ファイバ１に傷が付けられる。押付部材８に押されて光ファイバ１に張力がかかり、傷を起点として、光ファイバ１は、図１Ｂのように破断する。切断後の光ファイバ１の端部１ａおよび端部１ｂは、刃先５Ａに再び接触することがなく、図２のように突起９上において台４に受け止められる。 In the state where the optical fiber 1 is supported as described above, the lever 15 is further pushed down. Then, the pressing member 8 pushes the optical fiber 1 in the direction of the blade 5 and presses it against the blade edge 5A, whereby the optical fiber 1 is damaged. The optical fiber 1 is pressed by the pressing member 8 to be tensioned, and the optical fiber 1 is broken as shown in FIG. The end 1a and the end 1b of the optical fiber 1 after cutting do not come into contact with the cutting edge 5A again, and are received by the table 4 on the protrusion 9 as shown in FIG.
　本実施形態によれば、光ファイバを装置上に置き、レバーを押し下げるだけで、光ファイバの切断が実行できる。すなわち極めて操作が簡便であり、作業者に高い技能を要求しない。 According to this embodiment, the optical fiber can be cut only by placing the optical fiber on the apparatus and pushing down the lever. That is, the operation is extremely simple and does not require high skill from the operator.
　既に述べたように、刃先角θは、比較的に小さいほうが好ましく、例えば３０度以下の範囲が好ましいと考えられていた。本発明者らは、当業者のこのような常識に反して、６０度を超える比較的大きな範囲を探索した。刃先角θが、６０度、７５度、９０度、１０５度、１２０度である刃をそれぞれ用意し、上述の光ファイバ切断装置１０に取り付け、光ファイバを切断する実験を行った。 As already mentioned, the blade edge angle θ is preferably relatively small, for example, it was considered that a range of 30 degrees or less is preferable. The present inventors searched a relatively large range exceeding 60 degrees contrary to such common knowledge of those skilled in the art. Blades having blade edge angles θ of 60 degrees, 75 degrees, 90 degrees, 105 degrees, and 120 degrees were prepared and attached to the optical fiber cutting device 10 described above, and an experiment for cutting an optical fiber was performed.
　切断を繰り返すと次第に刃が鈍り、やがては切断に適さなくなる。刃の寿命が尽きるまでの切断回数を調べたところ、図６に示す結果が得られた。刃先角θが６０度では、２００～３００回程度で刃の寿命が尽きる。刃先角θが７５度以上では、急激に刃の寿命が延長される。例えば従来の超硬合金よりなる刃の寿命が１０００回程度であるのに比べ、その寿命は著しく長い。 と Repeated cutting gradually makes the blade dull and eventually becomes unsuitable for cutting. When the number of times of cutting until the end of the blade life was examined, the result shown in FIG. 6 was obtained. When the edge angle θ is 60 degrees, the blade life is exhausted after about 200 to 300 times. When the blade edge angle θ is 75 degrees or more, the blade life is abruptly extended. For example, the life of a blade made of a conventional cemented carbide is significantly longer than that of a blade having a life of about 1000 times.
　切断面の質についても検討した。切断後の切断面を調べ、光ファイバの走行方向に直交する方向に対して、切断面のなす角（以下、切断角）を測定して、図７に示す結果が得られた。図７に結果が示されている。数多くの切断面を調べると、切断角にはばらつきがあるので、最大値（図中、×印で示されている）、最小値（同じく－印）、および平均値（同じく■印）が測定されている。 The quality of the cut surface was also examined. The cut surface after cutting was examined, and the angle formed by the cut surface (hereinafter referred to as the cutting angle) was measured with respect to the direction orthogonal to the traveling direction of the optical fiber, and the result shown in FIG. 7 was obtained. The results are shown in FIG. When a large number of cut surfaces are examined, the cutting angle varies, so the maximum value (indicated by x in the figure), minimum value (also-), and average value (also ■) are measured. Has been.
　切断角は理想的には０度であって、この時に散乱損失が最小となることが期待される。実用的には、切断角は例えば１度以下に管理される。図７より理解されるように、刃先角θが１２０度の場合には、最大切断角は１度を超えてしまう。しかし刃先角θが１０５度以下であれば、切断角は１度未満であり、すなわち十分に良好な切断面が得られている。 The cutting angle is ideally 0 degree, and it is expected that the scattering loss is minimized at this time. Practically, the cutting angle is managed to be 1 degree or less, for example. As understood from FIG. 7, when the blade angle θ is 120 degrees, the maximum cutting angle exceeds 1 degree. However, if the cutting edge angle θ is 105 degrees or less, the cutting angle is less than 1 degree, that is, a sufficiently good cutting surface is obtained.
　以上の実験より、当業者の常識に反して、６０度を超える刃先角であっても、良好な結果が得られることが明らかである。刃の寿命を延長する観点からは、刃先角θは７５度以上が好ましく、良好な切断面を得る観点からは、刃先角θは１０５度以下が好ましい。より好ましくは、刃先角θは９０度程度である。 From the above experiments, it is clear that good results can be obtained even with a cutting edge angle exceeding 60 degrees, contrary to the common sense of those skilled in the art. From the viewpoint of extending the life of the blade, the blade edge angle θ is preferably 75 degrees or more, and from the viewpoint of obtaining a good cut surface, the blade edge angle θ is preferably 105 degrees or less. More preferably, the cutting edge angle θ is about 90 degrees.
　上述の第１の実施形態では、光ファイバが刃の方向へ押されるが、刃を光ファイバの方向へ押すように変形してもよい。図８Ａおよび８Ｂは、そのように変形された第２の実施形態を模式的に説明する図である。 In the above-described first embodiment, the optical fiber is pushed in the direction of the blade, but may be deformed so as to push the blade in the direction of the optical fiber. 8A and 8B are diagrams schematically illustrating the second embodiment modified in such a manner.
　例えば、クランプ６，７に支持された光ファイバ１に、刃５が接する高さとなるよう、バネ３の長さを予め適宜に調整しておく。台４を係止しておく手段を設けて、図８Ａのように刃５が光ファイバ１に接しない高さとなるように台４を係止し、バネ３を圧縮しておく。例えばレバー１１を押し下げると係止手段が解除され、バネ３の付勢力により刃５が光ファイバ１の方向へ押し上げられる。すると、図８Ｂのように、刃５が光ファイバ１に押し付けられて、切断が実行される。クランプ６，７には、互いに離れる方向に若干の張力が印加されていてもよい。かかる張力によって、光ファイバ１の切断が促される。 For example, the length of the spring 3 is appropriately adjusted in advance so that the blade 5 comes into contact with the optical fiber 1 supported by the clamps 6 and 7. A means for locking the table 4 is provided, the table 4 is locked so that the blade 5 does not contact the optical fiber 1 as shown in FIG. 8A, and the spring 3 is compressed. For example, when the lever 11 is pushed down, the locking means is released, and the blade 5 is pushed up toward the optical fiber 1 by the biasing force of the spring 3. Then, as shown in FIG. 8B, the blade 5 is pressed against the optical fiber 1 to perform cutting. A slight tension may be applied to the clamps 6 and 7 in directions away from each other. Such tension promotes cutting of the optical fiber 1.
　かかる第２の実施形態においても、刃の寿命を延長する観点からは、刃先角θは７５度以上が好ましく、良好な切断面を得る観点からは、刃先角θは１０５度以下が好ましい。より好ましくは、刃先角θは９０度程度である。 Also in the second embodiment, the blade edge angle θ is preferably 75 degrees or more from the viewpoint of extending the blade life, and the blade edge angle θ is preferably 105 degrees or less from the viewpoint of obtaining a good cut surface. More preferably, the cutting edge angle θ is about 90 degrees.
　本発明を例示的な実施形態を参照して説明したが、本発明は上記実施形態に限定されるものではない。上記開示内容に基づき、本技術分野の通常の技術を有する者が、実施形態の修正ないし変形により本発明を実施することが可能である。 Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Based on the above disclosure, a person having ordinary skill in the art can implement the present invention by modifying or modifying the embodiment.
産業上の利用の可能性Industrial applicability
　良好な切断面の形成が可能でありながら、長寿命を確保できる光ファイバを切断するための装置が提供される。 An apparatus for cutting an optical fiber capable of ensuring a long life while being able to form a good cut surface is provided.

Claims (3)

  1. 　光ファイバを切断するための装置であって、
    　前記光ファイバを支持するための支持体と、
    　７５度以上１０５度以下の刃先角を有し、単結晶のダイヤモンドよりなる刃と、
    　を備えた装置。     An apparatus for cutting an optical fiber,
    A support for supporting the optical fiber;
    A blade made of a single crystal diamond having a cutting edge angle of 75 degrees or more and 105 degrees or less;
    With a device.
  2. 　前記光ファイバを前記刃の方向へ押すべく移動可能に位置せしめられた押付部材を、
    　さらに備えた請求項１の装置。     A pressing member positioned so as to be movable to press the optical fiber in the direction of the blade;
    The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:
  3. 　前記刃を前記光ファイバの方向へ押すべく移動可能に位置せしめられた弾性部材を、
    　さらに備えた請求項１の装置。     An elastic member positioned so as to be movable to push the blade toward the optical fiber;
    The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:
PCT/JP2011/050505 2010-01-14 2011-01-14 Apparatus for cutting optical fiber WO2011087075A1 (en)

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Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS62257108A (en) * 1986-04-30 1987-11-09 Sumitomo Electric Ind Ltd Automatic disconnecting device for optical fiber
JPS638702U (en) * 1986-07-03 1988-01-21
JPH0431102U (en) * 1990-07-11 1992-03-12
JP2004101661A (en) * 2002-09-06 2004-04-02 Hitachi Metals Ltd Cutter for optical fiber

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS62257108A (en) * 1986-04-30 1987-11-09 Sumitomo Electric Ind Ltd Automatic disconnecting device for optical fiber
JPS638702U (en) * 1986-07-03 1988-01-21
JPH0431102U (en) * 1990-07-11 1992-03-12
JP2004101661A (en) * 2002-09-06 2004-04-02 Hitachi Metals Ltd Cutter for optical fiber

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