Technical field
[0001]
　The present invention relates to a fusion splicer and an optical fiber reinforcing method.
Background technology
[0002]
　Patent Document 1 describes a fusion splicer that fuses and connects optical fibers. Further, Patent Document 1 describes that the fusion splicing point is covered with a reinforcing sleeve (heat shrinkable tube), and the reinforcing sleeve is heated by a heater (heating unit) of the fusion splicing machine to reinforce the fusion splicing point. Has been done.
Prior art documents
Patent literature
[0003]
Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 4141891
Summary of the invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004]
　When heating the reinforcing sleeve with the heater, it is necessary to (1) align the fusion splicing point with the center of the reinforcing sleeve, and (2) align the center of the reinforcing sleeve with the center of the heater. This point will be described below.
[0005]
　FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship between the fusion splicing point and the reinforcing sleeve 5. As shown in the figure, an operator needs to align the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 when covering the fusion splicing point with the reinforcing sleeve 5. Accordingly, if the coating of the pair of optical fibers 3 is removed so that the protrusion length L1 is shorter than half the length L2 of the reinforcing sleeve 5, the end portion of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the coating of the optical fiber 3 are separated from each other. It can be overlapped. If the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 are deviated from each other, the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the coating of the optical fiber 3 may not be able to overlap each other. It is exposed on the outside, and the strength of the optical fiber 3 cannot be secured.
[0006]
　FIG. 12B is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship between the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the center of the heater 21. The temperature of the heater 21 (the part that becomes hot to heat the reinforcing sleeve 5) is the highest at the center in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction), and the temperature gradually decreases from the center to the end. A temperature gradient is formed. This is because the air inside the reinforcing sleeve 5 is discharged to the outside when the reinforcing sleeve 5 is heated and contracted, and the formation of bubbles inside the reinforcing sleeve 5 is suppressed. If the positional relationship between the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the center of the heater 21 is deviated, an uncontracted portion may remain on one side of the reinforcing sleeve 5.
[0007]
　In Patent Document 1, as shown in FIGS. 13A to 13C, an operator inclines the fusion-spliced ​​optical fiber 3 and slides the reinforcing sleeve 5 inserted into the optical fiber 3 by its own weight, and then manually or visually. Describes that the position of the reinforcing sleeve 5 is aligned with the fusion splicing point. However, in such a visual alignment method, the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 may be displaced. Therefore, in Patent Document 1, the following alignment method is adopted.
[0008]
　FIG. 14 is a configuration explanatory view of the fusion splicing device described in Patent Document 1. This fusion splicer is designed such that the total length 2B of the heating device 20' and the total length 2A of the fusion splicer 10 are equal. Further, in this fusion splicing device, the distance A between the fusion splicing point and the guide 91 on the fusion splicing portion 10 side is equal to the distance B between the center of the heater 21 and the guide 93 on the heating device 20' side. Is designed to. The reinforcing sleeve base is provided with a guide portion 92 for contacting the end surface of the reinforcing sleeve 5. The position of the guide portion 92 is adjusted so that the distance (L/2) between the center of the heater 21 and the end surface of the guide portion 92 is half the length L of the reinforcing sleeve 5. After fusion-splicing the pair of optical fibers 3, the operator holds the optical fiber 3 with two fingers while bringing his/her finger into contact with the guide 91 as shown in FIG. It will be taken out from 10.
[0009]
　15A to 15C are explanatory views of the alignment method using the fusion splicer of FIG. After taking out the optical fiber 3 from the fusion splicing part 10, the worker brings the end surface of the reinforcing sleeve 5 into contact with the guide part 92 of the reinforcing sleeve base as shown in FIG. 15A. Next, as shown in FIG. 15B, the operator slides the optical fiber 3 with respect to the reinforcing sleeve 5 until the finger holding the optical fiber 3 contacts the guide 93 on the heating device 20′ side. As a result, the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 are aligned with each other. Next, as shown in FIG. 15C, the worker sets the reinforcing sleeve 5 on the heater 21 while the finger holding the optical fiber 3 contacts the guide 93 on the heating device 20′ side. As a result, the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the center of the heater 21 are aligned with each other.
[0010]
　However, in the alignment method shown in FIGS. 15A to 15C, the reinforcement sleeve 5 is aligned at the third location (here, the reinforcement sleeve base) different from both the fusion splicing portion 10 and the heating device 20′. For this reason, in this alignment method, the worker temporarily moves the fusion-spliced ​​optical fiber 3 from the fusion-splicing section 10 to the third location (reinforcing sleeve base), and at the third location, the fusion-splicing point. And the reinforcing sleeve 5 are aligned, and then the optical fiber 3 and the reinforcing sleeve 5 need to be moved from the third place to the heating device 20′, which makes the work after fusion splicing inefficient.
[0011]
　It is an object of the present invention to efficiently perform a work of aligning a reinforcing sleeve.
Means for solving the problems
[0012]
　The main invention for achieving the above object is to insert a reinforcing sleeve into the first optical fiber in advance before fusion splicing, and to clamp at least a part of the coating of the first optical fiber with the first coating clamp portion. While the glass portion from which the coating of the first optical fiber has been removed is clamped by the first glass clamp portion and at least a part of the coating of the second optical fiber is clamped by the second coating clamp portion, the second light The glass portion from which the fiber coating is removed is clamped by the second glass clamp portion, the clamped first optical fiber and the second optical fiber are fusion-spliced, and after the fusion splicing, the windshield cover The first optical fiber clamped in a state in which the second optical fiber is pinched with a fingertip aligned with the position of the upper surface of the device in which the distance to the fusion splicing point is half of the reinforcing sleeve. And removing the second optical fiber, and sliding the reinforcing sleeve inserted into the first optical fiber until it comes into contact with the fingertip holding the second optical fiber. The optical fiber reinforcing method is characterized in that:
[0013]
　Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the description and drawings described below.
Effect of the invention
[0014]
　According to the present invention, the work of aligning the reinforcing sleeve can be efficiently performed.
Brief description of the drawings
[0015]
FIG. 1A to FIG. 1D are explanatory views of the alignment method of the first embodiment.
FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are top views of the fusion splicing device 1.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the fusion splicing portion 10 on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover 17.
FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory view of the fusion splicing section 10 and the heating section 20.
FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram of the reinforcing sleeve 5.
FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the left covering clamp portion 15 and the alignment portion 51. FIG. 6B is an explanatory diagram showing how the optical fiber 3 is held by the two fingers of the left hand.
FIG. 7A is a schematic explanatory view of the periphery of the alignment unit 51 of the first embodiment as seen from the front. FIG. 7B is an explanatory diagram of the first modified example. FIG. 7C is a schematic explanatory diagram of a reference example without the alignment unit 51.
FIG. 8A is an explanatory diagram of a second modified example. FIG. 8B is an explanatory diagram of the third modified example.
FIG. 9A is an explanatory diagram of a fourth modified example. FIG. 9B is an explanatory diagram of the fifth modified example.
FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are explanatory diagrams of the second embodiment.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of the third embodiment.
FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship between the fusion splicing point and the reinforcing sleeve 5. FIG. 12B is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship between the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the center of the heater 21.
FIG. 13A to FIG. 13C are explanatory views of a conventional alignment method.
FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration of a conventional fusion splicing device.
FIG. 15A to FIG. 15C are explanatory views of the alignment method using the fusion splicer of FIG.
MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0016]
　At least the following matters will be apparent from the description and drawings described below.
[0017]
　A connection part for fusion-splicing a pair of optical fibers, a glass clamp part provided outside the connection part, for clamping the removed glass part of the optical fiber, and provided outside the glass clamp part. A coating clamp portion that clamps at least a part of the coating of the optical fiber, a windshield cover that covers the connection portion, the glass clamp portion, and the coating clamp portion, and the optical fiber fusion-spliced ​​by the connection portion. A heater for heating the reinforcing sleeve covered at the fusion splicing point of the device, and a position provided inside or outside the covering clamp portion on the upper surface of the device in the windshield cover, where the fingertips for pinching the optical fiber can be aligned. A fusion splicing device comprising a mating portion, wherein the distance between the position aligning portion and the fusion splicing point is not more than half the length of the heater is clarified. According to such a fusion splicing device, the work for aligning the reinforcing sleeve can be efficiently performed.
[0018]
　The distance between the alignment portion and the fusion splicing point is preferably 34 mm or less. This is because the maximum length of the heater is 68 mm.
[0019]
　A connection part for fusion-splicing a pair of optical fibers, a glass clamp part provided outside the connection part, for clamping the removed glass part of the optical fiber, and provided outside the glass clamp part. A coating clamp portion that clamps at least a part of the coating of the optical fiber, a windshield cover that covers the connection portion, the glass clamp portion, and the coating clamp portion, and the coating clamp portion on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover. Provided on the inside or the outside of the optical fiber, and provided with an alignment portion capable of aligning the fingertips for pinching the optical fiber, and the distance between the alignment portion and the fusion splicing point is the longest to cover the fusion splicing point. A fusion splicing device is characterized in that it is less than half the length of the reinforcing sleeve. According to such a fusion splicing device, the work for aligning the reinforcing sleeve can be efficiently performed.
[0020]
　The distance between the alignment portion and the fusion splicing point is preferably 31 mm or less. This is because the length of the longest reinforcing sleeve is 62 mm.
[0021]
　A connection part for fusion-splicing a pair of optical fibers, a glass clamp part provided outside the connection part, for clamping the removed glass part of the optical fiber, and provided outside the glass clamp part. A coating clamp portion that clamps at least a part of the coating of the optical fiber, a windshield cover that covers the connection portion, the glass clamp portion, and the coating clamp portion, and the coating clamp portion on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover. Provided with the inside or outside of the optical fiber, and a positioning part capable of positioning the fingertip for pinching the optical fiber, and the distance between the positioning part and the fusion splicing point is reinforced by covering the fusion splicing point. A fusion splicer characterized by half the standard length of the sleeve is revealed. According to such a fusion splicing device, the work for aligning the reinforcing sleeve can be efficiently performed.
[0022]
　The covering clamp part has a base part on which the optical fiber is placed, and a holding part that can be opened and closed with respect to the base part, and the alignment part is at least a part of an outer side surface of the holding part. Is preferably formed so as to cover the. As a result, the pressing portion can be easily opened.
[0023]
　It is preferable that the alignment section includes a pair of plate sections extending upward from the base section and a concave fiber insertion section formed between the pair of plate sections. This facilitates gripping the optical fiber while aligning the fingertips.
[0024]
　It is desirable that a recess be formed outside the alignment portion. This facilitates the work of gripping the optical fiber while aligning the fingertips.
[0025]
　The depth of the recess is preferably 2 mm or more. This makes it easier for a part of the finger to enter the lower side of the optical fiber and facilitates gripping the optical fiber.
[0026]
　The covering clamp part includes a base part on which the optical fiber is placed, and a holding part that can be opened and closed with respect to the base part. Are preferably formed. Thereby, the width of the covering clamp portion can be set wide.
[0027]
　It is preferable that the alignment section has a concave curved surface, and the curved surface is formed on a lower side of the optical fiber extending from the coating clamp section. Accordingly, the position of the fingertip can be easily aligned by the alignment unit.
[0028]
　The reinforcing sleeve is inserted into the first optical fiber in advance before fusion splicing, and the coating of the first optical fiber is removed while at least a part of the coating of the first optical fiber is clamped by the first coating clamp portion. The first glass clamp portion is used to clamp the glass portion, and at least a part of the coating of the second optical fiber is clamped by the second coating clamp portion, while the glass portion from which the coating of the second optical fiber is removed is removed. (2) Clamping with a glass clamp part, fusion-bonding the clamped first optical fiber and the second optical fiber, and fusion-splicing, which is the position of the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover. Removing the clamped first optical fiber and second optical fiber in a state where the second optical fiber is pinched with a fingertip aligned with a position where the distance to the point is half of the reinforcing sleeve, and , Covering the fusion splicing point with the reinforcing sleeve by sliding the reinforcing sleeve inserted into the first optical fiber until it comes into contact with the fingertip holding the second optical fiber. An optical fiber reinforcing method characterized by According to such an optical fiber reinforcing method, the work of aligning the reinforcing sleeve can be efficiently performed.
[0029]
　=== First Embodiment ===
　
　Before describing the basic configuration of the fusion splicing device 1, first, a method of aligning the reinforcing sleeve 5 will be described.
[0030]
　1A to 1D are explanatory views of the alignment method of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the distance (L/2) between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is set to half the length L (standard length) of the reinforcing sleeve 5. Since the length Lh of the heater 21 is longer than the length L of the reinforcing sleeve 5, the distance (L/2) between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is less than half the length Lh of the heater 21. (Note that the length Lh of the heater 21 is not the entire length of the heating portion 20, but the length of the portion of the heating portion 20 that becomes hot due to the heating of the reinforcing sleeve 5).
[0031]
　Before setting the optical fiber 3 in the fusion splicing device 1, the worker attaches to one of the pair of optical fibers 3 (here, the optical fiber 3 on the right side in the drawing: the first optical fiber). The reinforcing sleeve 5 is inserted in advance. Then, the worker performs pretreatment on the optical fiber 3. In the pretreatment of the optical fiber 3, the coating of the end portion of the optical fiber 3 is removed, and the optical fiber 3 is cut so that the glass portion with the coating removed has a predetermined length.
　Next, the operator sets the pair of pre-processed optical fibers 3 in the fusion splicer 1. Specifically, at least a part of the coating of the right optical fiber 3 (first optical fiber) in the figure is clamped by the right coating clamp portion 15 (first coating clamp portion) while the coating is removed. The portion is clamped by the right glass clamp portion 13 (first glass clamp portion). Further, at least a part of the coating of the left optical fiber 3 (second optical fiber) in the figure is clamped by the left coating clamp portion 15 (second coating clamp portion), while the glass portion with the coating removed is on the right side. It clamps with the glass clamp part 13 (2nd glass clamp part). Then, the operator operates the fusion splicer 1 to splice the pair of clamped optical fibers 3. The state shown in FIG. 1A shows a state immediately after fusion-splicing a pair of optical fibers 3.
[0032]
　Next, as shown in FIG. 1A, the operator aligns the fingertips by bringing the finger of the left hand into contact with the aligning section 51, and while using the two fingers, attaches the optical fiber 3 (second optical fiber). Hold it. At this time, the fingertip contacting the alignment section 51 is aligned at a position where the distance to the fusion splicing point is half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5. Further, at this time, the optical fiber 3 (second optical fiber) is gripped by the fingertip aligned with the position where the distance to the fusion splicing point is half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5. Then, the worker removes the clamped optical fiber 3 (the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber) after the fusion splicing, while holding the optical fiber 3 with the two fingers of the left hand. The optical fiber 3 is taken out from the connecting/connecting portion 10.
[0033]
　Next, as shown in FIG. 1B, the worker tilts the optical fiber 3 so that the left side is downward, and the reinforcing sleeve 5 inserted into the right optical fiber 3 (first optical fiber) is moved to the left side by its own weight. Slide it. Then, the operator slides the reinforcing sleeve 5 leftward until the left end of the reinforcing sleeve 5 contacts the fingertip holding the optical fiber 3. As the reinforcing sleeve 5 slides to the left, the fusion splicing point of the optical fiber 3 is covered with the reinforcing sleeve 5. Then, when the left end of the reinforcing sleeve 5 comes into contact with the fingertip holding the optical fiber 3 and the reinforcing sleeve 5 cannot slide further to the left, the fusion splicing point is located at the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5. ing. That is, by sliding the reinforcing sleeve 5 until it comes into contact with the fingertip (the fingertip that holds the second optical fiber) aligned by the alignment section 51, the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 are aligned. It is possible to cover the fusion splicing point with the reinforcing sleeve 5. As described above, in this embodiment, since the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 can be aligned by a simple method, the reinforcing sleeve can be efficiently aligned.
[0034]
　Next, as shown in FIG. 1C, the worker horizontally returns the tilted optical fiber 3 and slides the fingertip of the left hand in contact with the reinforcing sleeve 5 to the left along the optical fiber 3. As a result, a gap is formed between the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the fingertip of the left hand, so that the reinforcing sleeve 5 can be easily set on the heater 21. At this time, since the position of the reinforcing sleeve 5 with respect to the optical fiber 3 does not change, the fusion splicing point is located at the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5.
[0035]
　Next, the worker sets the reinforcing sleeve 5 on the heater 21 as shown in FIG. 1D. At this time, the worker sets the reinforcing sleeve 5 on the heater 21 so that the gap between the end portion of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the end portion of the heater 21 is even on the left and right. As a result, the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the center of the heater 21 are aligned with each other. Since the heater 21 is slightly longer than the reinforcing sleeve 5 (several millimeters), if the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 is displaced from the center of the heater 21, the end portion of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the end portion of the heater 21 are displaced. The gaps on the left and right of and become uneven so that they can be visually identified. Therefore, even if the operator visually sets the reinforcing sleeve 5 on the heater 21, the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the center of the heater 21 are aligned with each other almost accurately. However, a mark indicating the setting position of the end of the reinforcing sleeve 5 may be provided on the heater 21, and the reinforcing sleeve 5 may be set on the heater 21 while aligning the end of the reinforcing sleeve 5 with this mark.
[0036]
　
　Next, the configuration of the fusion splicer suitable for the above-described alignment method will be described.
　2A and 2B are top views of the fusion splicing apparatus 1. FIG. 2A is a view of the fusion splicer 1 with the lid (the windshield cover 17 and the heater cover 22) closed. FIG. 2B is a view of the fusion splicer 1 with the lid open. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the fusion splicing portion 10 on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover 17. FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory view of the fusion splicing part 10 and the heating part 20.
[0037]
　In the following description, each direction is defined as follows. The longitudinal direction of the optical fiber 3 at the time of fusion splicing is defined as "left-right direction", the operator's right hand side as viewed from the operator operating the fusion splicing device 1 is defined as "right", and the opposite side is defined as "left". .. Further, the direction in which the pair of electrodes 11 face each other is referred to as “front-back direction”, the operator's side as viewed from the electrodes 11 is referred to as “front”, and the opposite side (the heating unit 20 side) is referred to as “rear”. The front-back direction may be referred to as the "depth direction", the operator side may be referred to as the "front side", and the heating unit 20 side may be referred to as the "back side". Further, a direction perpendicular to the left-right direction and the front-rear direction (or a direction perpendicular to the mounting surface of the optical fiber 3 in the glass clamp portion 13) is referred to as “up-down direction”, and an upper side in the vertical direction is referred to as “upper”, and an opposite side is referred to. Is “below”.
[0038]
　The fusion splicer 1 is a device for fusion splicing a pair of optical fibers 3. In the present embodiment, the fusion splicer 1 fusion splices a pair of single-core optical fibers 3, but may also splice a pair of multi-core optical fibers (for example, a pair of optical fiber tapes). The fusion splicing device 1 includes a fusion splicing unit 10, a heating unit 20, an operation unit 31, and a display unit 32.
[0039]
　The fusion splicing section 10 is a mechanism for fusion splicing the optical fiber 3. The fusion splicing portion 10 includes a pair of electrodes 11, a pair of glass clamp portions 13, a pair of covering clamp portions 15, and a windshield cover 17.
[0040]
　The pair of electrodes 11 is a connecting portion for fusion-splicing the pair of optical fibers 3. In other words, the electrode 11 is a discharge electrode rod. In the present embodiment, the pair of electrodes 11 (connecting portions) fusion-splice a pair of single-core optical fibers 3, but a pair of multi-core optical fibers (for example, a pair of optical fiber tapes) are fusion-spliced. Is also good. Arc discharge is generated at the pair of electrodes 11 to heat the tip portion of the optical fiber 3 and the heated tip portion of the optical fiber 3 is melted, whereby the pair of optical fibers 3 are fusion-spliced. .. When viewed from above, the fusion splicing point of the optical fiber 3 is located on the line connecting the pair of electrodes 11 (however, when the optical fiber 3 and the electrode 11 are displaced in the vertical direction, The fusion splicing point of the optical fiber 3 may be displaced in the vertical direction with respect to the intermediate position of the pair of electrodes 11). That is, the horizontal position of the fusion splicing point of the optical fiber 3 is substantially the same as the horizontal position of the electrode 11. The pair of electrodes 11 are provided on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover 17.
[0041]
　The glass clamp part 13 is a part for clamping the glass part of the optical fiber 3 (a part where the coating of the optical fiber 3 is removed). Although the glass clamp portion 13 clamps the single-core optical fiber 3 in this embodiment, it may clamp a plurality of optical fibers (for example, an optical fiber tape). The pair of glass clamp portions 13 (the first glass clamp portion and the second glass clamp portion) are provided outside the pair of electrodes 11 in the left-right direction. The glass clamp portion 13 has a base portion 13A having a V groove and a holding portion 13B. The base portion 13A (V groove) of the glass clamp portion 13 is provided in the windshield cover 17 on the upper surface of the device. The pressing portion 13B is provided on the inner surface of the windshield cover 17. When the windshield cover 17 is closed, the glass portion of the optical fiber 3 is clamped between the base portion 13A (V groove) and the holding portion 13B.
[0042]
　The coating clamp portion 15 is a portion that clamps at least a part of the coating of the optical fiber 3. Although the coating clamp 15 clamps the single-core optical fiber 3 in the present embodiment, it may clamp a plurality of optical fibers (for example, an optical fiber tape). The pair of coating clamp portions 15 (first coating clamp portion and second coating clamp portion) are provided outside the pair of glass clamp portions 13 in the left-right direction. In other words, one coating clamp portion 15 is arranged on the further right side of the glass clamp portion 13 on the right side in the drawing, and the other coating clamp portion 15 is arranged on the further left side of the glass clamp portion 13 on the left side in the drawing. ing. The covering clamp portion 15 has a base portion 15A having a V groove and a holding portion 15B. The pressing portion 15B of the covering clamp portion 15 is provided so as to be openable and closable with respect to the base portion 15A, and when the pressing portion 15B is closed, the covering of the optical fiber 3 covers the base portion 15A (V groove) and the pressing portion 15B. Will be clamped in between. The optical fiber 3 clamped by the coating clamp portion 15 may be coated on all the portions or may be a part of the glass portion (when the coating is peeled off, it may be clamped). Both the base portion 15A and the pressing portion 15B of the covering clamp portion 15 are provided on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover 17.
[0043]
　In the present embodiment, the covering clamp portion 15 is assembled on the upper surface of the device. However, the covering clamp portion 15 may be configured as a holder that can be attached to and detached from the upper surface of the device. In this case, when setting the optical fiber 3 in the fusion splicing part 10, the worker clamps the optical fiber 3 in the coating clamp part 15 of the holder, performs the pretreatment of the optical fiber 3, and then the optical fiber 3 is fixed. The clamped holder will be set on the top of the device.
[0044]
　The windshield cover 17 is a member (cover) that covers the fusion splicing portion 10 (the electrode 11, the glass clamp portion 13, and the covering clamp portion 15). The windshield cover 17 is provided so as to be openable and closable with respect to the apparatus body. When the windshield cover 17 is closed, the fusion splicing part 10 is sealed. As a result, stable discharge can be realized, and the fusion splicing of the optical fiber 3 can be normally performed. A pressing portion 13B of the glass clamp portion 13 is provided on the inner surface of the windshield cover 17.
[0045]
　In the present embodiment, the alignment portion 51 is provided on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover 17. The alignment part 51 is a part that aligns a fingertip that holds the optical fiber 3 with a predetermined position. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the sliding reinforcement sleeve 5 is brought into contact with the fingertip aligned by the alignment portion 51 to align the fusion splicing point and the reinforcement sleeve 5. It will be. Therefore, the alignment portion 51 is a portion for aligning the fingertip with which the reinforcing sleeve 5 is brought into contact with the fusion splicing point at a predetermined position. In the present embodiment, the alignment portion 51 is provided on the outer side surface of the covering clamp portion 15. The alignment section 51 will be described later.
[0046]
　The heating unit 20 is a mechanism for heating the reinforcing sleeve 5. The heating unit 20 has a heater 21 and a heater cover 22. The heater 21 is a portion that becomes hot to heat the reinforcing sleeve 5. The heater 21 has a mounting surface on which the reinforcing sleeve 5 is mounted, and when heated, the mounting surface becomes hot. The heater 21 has the highest temperature at the center in the left-right direction, and a temperature gradient is formed so that the temperature gradually decreases from the center toward the end.
[0047]
　FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram of the reinforcing sleeve 5.
[0048]
　The reinforcing sleeve 5 is a reinforcing member that protects the fusion splicing point and the glass portion. The reinforcing sleeve 5 is composed of a heat shrinkable tube. Specifically, the reinforcing sleeve 5 has an outer tube 5A, a tensile strength member 5B, and a hot melt adhesive 5C. The outer tube 5A is composed of a heat shrinkable tube, and is a member for molding the hot melt adhesive 5C. A tensile strength member 5B and a hot melt adhesive 5C are housed inside the outer tube 5A. The strength member 5B is a member that reinforces against pulling and bending. The strength member 5B is made of, for example, a metal such as stainless steel or glass ceramic. The length of the strength member 5B does not have to be the same as the length L of the reinforcing sleeve 5, and may be shorter than the length L. The hot melt adhesive 5C is a member that protects the fusion splicing point and adheres the tensile strength member 5B. The hot melt adhesive 5C is made of a resin that melts when heated. The hot melt adhesive 5C may be called an inner tube. An insertion hole for inserting the optical fiber 3 is formed in the hot-melt adhesive 5C. The reinforcing sleeve 5 is heated while the optical fiber 3 is inserted through the insertion hole, and thereby the fusion splicing point and the glass portion of the optical fiber 3 are protected. The configuration of the reinforcing sleeve 5 is not limited to this.
[0049]
　The reinforcing sleeve 5 having a length of 60 mm is generally used (a reinforcing sleeve having a length of 40 mm also exists, but 90% of the reinforcing sleeves in the market have a length of 60 mm. And a reinforcing sleeve). Therefore, in this embodiment, it is assumed that a standard reinforcing sleeve having a length of 60 mm is used. Then, the actual length of the standard reinforcing sleeve having a length of 60 mm is in the range of 60 mm or more and 62 mm or less. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the “longest length of the reinforcing sleeve” means “62 mm”. Further, in the present embodiment, the “standard length of the reinforcing sleeve” means a range of “60 mm or more and 62 mm or less”.
[0050]
　The heater 21 of the present embodiment is formed longer than the reinforcing sleeve 5 in the left-right direction. Specifically, the horizontal length Lh of the heater 21 is set in the range of 64 mm or more and 68 mm or less. If the length Lh of the heater 21 in the left-right direction is 64 mm or more, the longest reinforcing sleeve 5 having a length of 62 mm can be set on the heater 21 with a margin of 1 mm or more on the left and right sides. When the length Lh of the heater 21 is less than 64 mm, the left and right margins are less than 1 mm when the longest reinforcing sleeve 5 having a length of 62 mm is set in the heater 21, so the reinforcing sleeve 5 is set in the heater 21. Hard to do. On the other hand, when the length Lh of the heater 21 exceeds 68 mm, when the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 having a length of 60 mm deviates from the center of the heater 21, the end portion of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the end portion of the heater 21 are separated from each other. It becomes difficult to visually recognize the difference between the left and right gaps. Further, if the length Lh of the heater 21 is too long, the heat capacity of the heater 21 becomes large, and it takes time until the heater 21 reaches a predetermined temperature, which is not preferable. Therefore, the length of the heater 21 in the left-right direction is preferably in the range of 64 mm or more and 68 mm or less.
[0051]
　The operation part 31 is a part where an operator operates the fusion splicer 1. Here, the operation unit 31 has various buttons. However, the operation unit 31 is not limited to the button, and may be, for example, a dial or the like. The display unit 32 is a part (display) that displays various information. The operator operates the operation unit 31 while looking at the information displayed on the display unit 32. The display unit 32 and the operation unit 31 may be integrally configured by a touch panel.
[0052]
　 As
　shown in FIG. 4, the distance between the alignment section 51 and the fusion splicing point is half the standard length of the reinforcing sleeve 5 (60 mm or more and 62 mm or less). Further, in the present embodiment, the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is half or less of the length (62 mm) of the longest reinforcing sleeve 5. Specifically, in this embodiment, the distance between the alignment section 51 and the fusion splicing point is set to 30 mm. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6B, when the operator brings his or her finger into contact with the alignment portion 51, the fingertip is positioned such that the distance to the fusion splicing point is half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5. Will be aligned with. Further, in the present embodiment, since the length of the heater 21 is set in the range of 64 mm or more and 68 mm or less, the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is half the length of the heater 21 or less. is there.
[0053]
　FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the covering clamp portion 15 and the alignment portion 51 on the left side. FIG. 6B is an explanatory diagram showing how the optical fiber 3 is held by the two fingers of the left hand. FIG. 7A is a schematic explanatory view of the periphery of the alignment unit 51 of the first embodiment as seen from the front. Note that FIG. 7C is a schematic explanatory diagram of a reference example without the alignment unit 51.
[0054]
　As described above, in the present embodiment, the alignment portion 51 is provided on the side surface outside the covering clamp portion 15 on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover 17. Further, in the present embodiment, the operator holds the optical fiber 3 with two fingers while aligning the fingertips by bringing the finger of the left hand into contact with the alignment portion 51.
[0055]
　The alignment portion 51 is formed as a plate-shaped portion formed on the outer side surface of the covering clamp portion 15. In the present embodiment, the alignment section 51 has a surface perpendicular to the left-right direction (a surface perpendicular to the optical fiber 3 clamped by the coating clamp section 15). When the fingertip comes into contact with the plate surface of the plate-shaped alignment portion 51, the alignment of the fingertip is performed. That is, the outer side surface of the alignment section 51 serves as a reference position for aligning the fingertip.
[0056]
　In the present embodiment, the alignment portion 51 is formed on the outer side surface of each of the pair of covering clamp portions 15. That is, the fusion splicing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment is provided with the pair of alignment portions 51. With this, the operator can not only align the fingertips of the left hand using the alignment section 51 on the left side, but can also align the fingertips of the right hand using the alignment section 51 on the right side. This is convenient because the optical fiber 3 (second optical fiber) may be gripped. However, the alignment portions 51 may not be provided on both the left and right sides, and the alignment portions 51 may be provided on at least one of the left and right sides.
[0057]
　The alignment portion 51 is formed in a plate shape so as to extend upward from the base portion 15A of the covering clamp portion 15 (toward the pressing portion 15B). Therefore, the plate-shaped alignment portion 51 is arranged so as to cover a part of the side surface of the pressing portion 15B from the outside. Accordingly, when the fingertip is brought into contact with the alignment portion 51, it is possible to make it difficult for the fingertip to come into contact with the pressing portion 15B. As a result, when the operator removes the optical fiber 3 from the coating clamp portion 15 while holding the optical fiber 3 with the two fingers of the left hand, the operator can easily open the holding portion 15B.
[0058]
　Further, the plate-shaped alignment portion 51 is formed in a U shape. In other words, the alignment portion 51 has a concave fiber formed between the pair of plate portions 51A extending upward so as to cover a part of the side surface of the pressing portion 15B from the outside, and the concave fiber formed between the pair of plate portions 51A. It has the insertion part 51B. The pair of plate portions 51A are arranged side by side in the front-rear direction (depth direction) with the fiber insertion portion 51B interposed therebetween. As a result, while the fingertip of the thumb is brought into contact with the plate portion 51A on the front side (front side) and the fingertip of the index finger is brought into contact with the plate portion 51A on the rear side (back side), the light inserted through the fiber insertion portion 51B is inserted. It becomes easy to grip the fiber 3 between the thumb and the index finger.
[0059]
　In the present embodiment, the recess 52 is formed outside the alignment portion 51. The recessed portion 52 is a portion that is recessed below the optical fiber 3 that extends outward from the coating clamp portion 15 (or the alignment portion 51). By forming the concave portion 52 on the outer side of the alignment portion 51, a part of the finger holding the optical fiber 3 can be inserted below the optical fiber 3. Thereby, the optical fiber 3 can be gripped near the part of the fingertip that is in contact with the alignment section 51. In other words, by forming the recess 52, it is possible to bring the part of the fingertip in contact with the alignment section 51 and the part of the fingertip holding the optical fiber 3 closer to each other. This facilitates the work of gripping the optical fiber 3 while aligning the fingertips.
[0060]
　As described above, the recess 52 is a part that allows a part of the finger to enter below the optical fiber 3 to facilitate the gripping of the optical fiber 3. Therefore, the depth of the recess 52 is preferably 2 mm or more. In the present embodiment, the recess 52 is recessed by 2 mm or more from the upper surface (the surface on which the V groove is formed) of the base portion 15A of the covering clamp portion 15. In other words, by forming the recess 52, a step portion of 2 mm or more is formed between the upper surface of the base portion 15A of the covering clamp portion 15 and the bottom surface of the recess 52. When the depth of the recess 52 is less than 2 mm, it is difficult for a part of the finger to enter below the optical fiber 3 (however, even if the depth of the recess 52 is less than 2 mm, the recess 52 does not exist). The optical fiber 3 is easier to be gripped as compared with the structure without the above).
[0061]
　Further, it is desirable that the recess 52 be formed along the front-rear direction. This makes it easier to grip the optical fiber 3 with two fingertips in the front-rear direction while allowing a part of the finger to enter below the optical fiber 3. Specifically, the dimension of the recess 52 in the front-rear direction is preferably 15 mm or more.
[0062]
　Further, in the present embodiment, the fiber support portion 54 is formed outside the recess 52. The fiber support portion 54 is a portion that supports the optical fiber 3 on the opposite side of the coating clamp portion 15 when viewed from the recess 52 (or the alignment portion 51 ). The portion where the fiber support portion 54 supports the optical fiber 3 is located above the bottom surface of the recess 52, and here is substantially the same height as the upper surface of the base portion 15A of the coating clamp portion 15. Therefore, when the optical fiber 3 is supported by the fiber support portion 54 and the coating clamp portion 15, the optical fiber 3 is in a state of floating from the bottom surface of the recess 52. This makes it easier for the operator to grip the optical fiber 3 with two fingers.
[0063]
　
　FIG. 7B is an explanatory diagram of the first modification. In the first modification, the alignment portion 51 does not cover a part of the side surface of the pressing portion 15B from the outside, but is configured by the side surface of the base portion 15A and the side surface of the pressing portion 15B. In the first modified example, when the fingertip is brought into contact with the alignment portion 51, the fingertip comes into contact with the pressing portion 15B. As a result, in the first modified example, when the operator removes the optical fiber 3 from the covering clamp portion 15 while holding the optical fiber 3 with the two fingers of the left hand, it becomes difficult to open the holding portion 15B. However, even when the alignment section 51 is configured as in the first modification, the optical fibers are aligned with two fingers while aligning the fingertips by bringing the finger of the left hand into contact with the alignment section 51. It is possible to grip 3. Further, also in the first modified example, since the concave portion 52 is formed outside the alignment portion 51, it is possible to cause a part of the finger holding the optical fiber 3 to enter below the optical fiber 3. The work of gripping the optical fiber 3 while aligning the fingertips becomes easy.
[0064]
　FIG. 8A is an explanatory diagram of the second modification. In the second modified example, the alignment portion 51 is formed so as to extend upward from the base portion 15A of the covering clamp portion 15 and instead extends upward from the bottom surface of the recess 52 arranged outside the covering clamp portion 15. It is formed to extend.
[0065]
　FIG. 8B is an explanatory diagram of the third modified example. In the third modification, the alignment section 51 is provided in the guide section 61 independent of the covering clamp section 15. The guide portion 61 has an alignment portion 51 and a recess 52 (and a fiber support portion 54).
[0066]
　Also in the second modification and the third modification, it is possible to hold the optical fiber 3 with two fingers while aligning the fingertips by bringing the finger of the left hand into contact with the alignment portion 51. Further, also in the second modified example and the third modified example, since the concave portion 52 is formed outside the alignment portion 51, a part of the finger holding the optical fiber 3 is inserted below the optical fiber 3. This makes it easy to hold the optical fiber 3 while aligning the fingertips.
[0067]
　In addition, in the present embodiment, there is a restriction that the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is set to half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5 (for example, 30 mm). In the third modification, it is necessary to reduce the width of the covering clamp portion 15 in the left-right direction. However, if the force for clamping the optical fiber 3 can be sufficiently secured even if the width of the covering clamp portion 15 in the left-right direction is shortened, as in the second modification example and the third modification example, the alignment section 51 can be formed. Alternatively, it may be arranged outside the coating clamp portion 15 and apart from the coating clamp portion 15.
[0068]
　FIG. 9A is an explanatory diagram of the fourth modification. In the fourth modification, the alignment section 51 has a concave curved surface. The concave curved surface is formed on the lower side of the optical fiber 3 extending from the coating clamp portion 15 (or the alignment portion 51). The concave curved surface is formed of a curved surface having a curvature that matches the shape of the fingertip. In the fourth modified example, the operator can align his or her fingertip with the concave curved surface, so that the alignment portion 51 facilitates alignment of the fingertip. In the fourth modified example, the portion of the concave curved surface closest to the optical fiber 3 (the portion closest to the coating clamp portion 15) is the reference position, and at this reference position, the alignment portion 51 is fused. The distance to the connection point is set to be half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5 (for example, 30 mm). As a result, the fingertip in contact with the alignment portion 51 can be aligned so that the distance to the fusion splicing point is half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5. Further, as a result, when the reinforcing sleeve 5 is slid until it comes into contact with the fingertip (see FIG. 1B), the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 are aligned with each other, and the reinforcement sleeve 5 is positioned at the fusion splicing point. Can be covered.
[0069]
　FIG. 9B is an explanatory diagram of the fifth modified example. In the fifth modified example, as in the third modified example, the alignment section 51 is provided in the guide section 61 independent of the covering clamp section 15. Then, in the fifth modified example, the alignment portion 51 having a concave curved surface is provided in the guide portion 61. Further, in the fifth modification, a curved surface is also formed on the bottom surface of the recess 52. Also in the fifth modified example, the portion of the concave curved surface closest to the optical fiber 3 (the portion closest to the coating clamp portion 15) becomes the reference position, and at this reference position, the alignment portion 51 and the fusion portion are melted. It is set so that the distance from the connecting/connecting point is half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5 (for example, 30 mm). As a result, the fingertip in contact with the alignment portion 51 can be aligned so that the distance to the fusion splicing point is half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5.
[0070]
　Also in the above-described fourth modified example and fifth modified example, it is possible to hold the optical fiber 3 with two fingers while positioning the fingertips by bringing the finger of the left hand into contact with the positioning section 51. is there. Further, also in the fourth modified example and the fifth modified example, since the concave portion 52 is formed on the outer side of the alignment portion 51, a part of the finger that holds the optical fiber 3 enters below the optical fiber 3. This makes it easy to hold the optical fiber 3 while aligning the fingertips.
[0071]
　=== Second Embodiment ===
　FIGS. 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams of the second embodiment. FIG. 10A is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the optical fiber 3 is clamped by the coating clamp portion 15 and the glass clamp portion 13. FIG. 10B is an explanatory diagram of a state in which the optical fiber 3 is pinched with a fingertip (a state in which the clamped optical fiber 3 is removed).
[0072]
　In the second embodiment, the alignment section 51 is provided inside the cover clamp section 15 on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover 17. That is, in the second embodiment, the alignment portion 51 is provided on the upper surface of the base portion 15A that faces the pressing portion 15B of the covering clamp portion 15. As described above, the alignment portion 51 is not limited to the one provided on the outside of the covering clamp portion 15 as in the first embodiment, but may be provided on the inside of the covering clamp portion 15 (the upper surface of the base portion 15A). it can. Further, when the alignment portion 51 is provided inside the coating clamp portion 15 as in the second embodiment, the recess 52 outside the alignment portion 51 is also inside the coating clamp portion 15 (of the base portion 15A). It is desirable to provide it on the upper surface).
[0073]
　In addition, in the second embodiment, an operator will remove the optical fiber 3 by the following procedure after fusion-splicing the pair of clamped optical fibers 3.
[0074]
　After the fusion connection, the worker first opens the windshield cover 17. As a result, the pressing portion 13B of the glass clamp portion 13 provided on the windshield cover 17 is released, and the glass portion of the optical fiber 3 is opened.
　Next, the worker holds the optical fiber 3 (first optical fiber) clamped by the right coating clamp (not shown) without opening the right coating clamp portion 15 (not shown), and the left coating clamp portion is left. Open the pressing portion 15B of 15. Next, as shown in FIG. 10B, the operator positions the optical fiber 3 (second optical fiber) with two fingers while aligning the fingertips by bringing the finger of the left hand into contact with the alignment section 51. Hold it. At this time, the fingertip contacting the alignment section 51 is aligned at a position where the distance to the fusion splicing point is half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5. Further, at this time, the optical fiber 3 (second optical fiber) is gripped by the fingertip aligned with the position where the distance to the fusion splicing point is half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5.
　Then, the operator opens the holding portion 15B of the right covering clamp portion 15 (not shown) while holding the optical fiber 3 with the two fingers of the left hand. As a result, the clamped optical fiber 3 (first optical fiber and second optical fiber) after fusion splicing can be removed and the optical fiber 3 can be taken out from the fusion splicing portion 10. The work after taking out the optical fiber 3 is similar to that of the above-described embodiment (see FIGS. 1B to 1D).
[0075]
　By the way, there is a constraint that the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is set to half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5 (for example, 30 mm). Therefore, when the alignment portion 51 is provided outside the covering clamp portion 15 as in the first embodiment, the width of the covering clamp portion 15 in the left-right direction needs to be relatively short. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, by providing the alignment portion 51 inside the covering clamp portion 15, there is an advantage that the width of the covering clamp portion 15 in the left-right direction can be set wide. As a result, in the second embodiment, it becomes easy to design the coating clamp portion 15 so that a sufficient force for clamping the optical fiber 3 can be secured.
[0076]
　As described above, the covering clamp portion 15 may be configured as a holder that can be attached to and detached from the upper surface of the device. In this case, the alignment portion 51 and the concave portion 52 are formed inside the covering clamp portion 15 of the holder (the upper surface of the base portion 15A).
[0077]
　=== Third Embodiment ===
　FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of the third embodiment.
[0078]
　In the third embodiment, unlike the above-described first and second embodiments, the recess 52 is not formed outside the alignment portion 51. However, also in the third embodiment, the alignment portion 51 is provided outside the covering clamp portion 15 on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover 17. Therefore, also in the third embodiment, it is possible to hold the optical fiber 3 with two fingers while aligning the fingertips by bringing the finger of the left hand into contact with the alignment portion 51.
[0079]
　Further, in the third embodiment, the portion where the fiber support portion 54 supports the optical fiber 3 is located at a position higher than the upper surface of the base portion 15A of the covering clamp portion 15. Therefore, when the optical fiber 3 is supported by the fiber support portion 54 and the covering clamp portion 15, the optical fiber 3 is lifted from the bottom surface at the position of the alignment portion 51, and the space below the optical fiber 3 is formed. Can be formed. This makes it easier for the operator to grip the optical fiber 3 with two fingers.
[0080]
　In addition, in the third embodiment, the height of the fiber support portion 54 may be variable in the vertical direction. This makes it possible to adjust the ease with which the optical fiber 3 is held by two fingers.
[0081]
　===Summary===
　The fusion splicing apparatus 1 according to the first to third embodiments described above includes an electrode 11 (splicing portion) for fusion-splicing a pair of optical fibers 3 and an outer side of the electrode 11. The glass clamp portion 13 provided, the coated clamp portion provided outside the glass clamp portion 13, the windshield cover 17, the heater 21 for heating the reinforcing sleeve, and the fingertip for pinching the optical fiber 3 can be aligned. The positioning unit 51 is provided. In addition, the alignment portion 51 is provided on the upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover 17 in any of the embodiments, and is provided outside the covering clamp portion 15 in the first and second embodiments. In the third embodiment, it is provided inside the covering clamp portion 15. Further, in the above-described first to third embodiments, the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is not more than half the length Lh of the heater 21. Since the length Lh of the heater 21 is longer than the length L of the reinforcing sleeve 5, by setting the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point to be half or less of the length Lh of the heater 21, the length Lh of FIG. When the alignment is performed as in 1D, it becomes possible to align the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcing sleeve with the center of the heater 21, and the alignment work of the reinforcing sleeve (see FIGS. 1A to 1D) can be performed. It can be done efficiently.
　If the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is larger than half the length of the heater 21, the fusion splicing point is generated when the reinforcing sleeve 5 is aligned as shown in FIG. 1B. The positional relationship between the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 and the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 shifts when the reinforcing sleeve 5 is set on the heater 21 as shown in FIG. 1D. Therefore, it is desirable that the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is half or less of the length Lh of the heater 21. Specifically, since the length Lh of the heater 21 is 68 mm at the longest, the distance between the alignment section 51 and the fusion splicing point is preferably 34 mm or less.
[0082]
　In addition, in the above-described first to third embodiments, the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is half or less of the length of the longest reinforcing sleeve that covers the fusion splicing point. Specifically, since the longest reinforcing sleeve has a length of 62 mm, the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is preferably 31 mm or less. As a result, when the reinforcement sleeve 5 is aligned as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcement sleeve 5 can be aligned, and the alignment work of the reinforcement sleeve can be performed efficiently. Can be done. In addition, the deviation of the positional relationship between the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcing sleeve 5 is caused by an error between the standard length of the reinforcing sleeve 5 (60 mm or more and 62 mm or less) and the longest reinforcing sleeve 5 length (62 mm) 2 mm) is acceptable, so the lower limit of the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is the standard length (60 mm) minus the error (2 mm) (58 mm). Is desirable. That is, the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is 58 mm or more (60 mm which is the standard length minus an error of 2 mm or more) and 62 mm or less (the length of the longest reinforcing sleeve 5 or less). Is desirable.
[0083]
　In addition, in the above-described first to third embodiments, the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is the standard length (60 mm or more and 62 mm or less) of the reinforcing sleeve that covers the fusion splicing point. It is desirable to be half. Specifically, the distance between the alignment section 51 and the fusion splicing point is preferably in the range of 30 mm or more and 31 mm or less. As a result, when the reinforcement sleeve 5 is aligned as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcement sleeve 5 can be aligned, and the alignment work of the reinforcement sleeve can be performed efficiently. Can be done.
[0084]
　In the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A and 7A, the alignment section is formed so as to cover a part of the side surface of the pressing section 15B of the covering clamp section 15. As a result, when the fingertip is brought into contact with the alignment portion 51, it becomes difficult for the fingertip to come into contact with the holding portion 15B. Therefore, when the optical fiber 3 is detached from the covering clamp portion 15 while holding the optical fiber 3, the holding portion 15B is pressed. The portion 15B can be easily opened.
[0085]
　Further, in the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A and 7A, the alignment portion 51 has a concave shape formed between the pair of plate portions 51A extending upward from the base portion 15A and the pair of plate portions 51A. And the fiber insertion portion 51B. Thereby, the fingertip of the thumb is brought into contact with the one plate portion 51A and the fingertip of the index finger is brought into contact with the other plate portion 51A while the optical fiber 3 inserted into the fiber insertion portion 51B is placed between the thumb and the index finger. Makes it easier to grip.
[0086]
　In the above-described first and second embodiments, the recess 52 is formed outside the alignment portion 51. This facilitates the work of gripping the optical fiber 3 while aligning the fingertips. The depth of the recess 52 is 2 mm or more. This makes it easier for a part of the finger to enter below the optical fiber 3 and facilitates gripping the optical fiber 3.
[0087]
　In the second embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the alignment portion 51 is provided on the upper surface of the base portion 15A that faces the pressing portion 15B of the covering clamp portion 15. Since there is a restriction that the distance between the alignment portion 51 and the fusion splicing point is set to half the length of the reinforcing sleeve 5, by providing the alignment portion 51 inside the coating clamp portion 15, the coating clamp portion 15 is provided. The width in the left-right direction can be set wide.
[0088]
　In the above-described fourth modified example and fifth modified example (see FIGS. 9A and 9B), the alignment section 51 has a concave curved surface, and the concave curved surface extends from the coating clamp section 15. 3 is formed on the lower side. As a result, the fingertip can be aligned with the concave curved surface, and the alignment portion 51 facilitates alignment of the fingertip.
[0089]
　In the method of reinforcing the optical fiber 3 in the above-described embodiment, the worker attaches one of the pair of optical fibers 3 (first optical fiber) to the optical fiber 3 before setting the optical fiber 3 in the fusion splicer 1. , The reinforcing sleeve 5 is inserted in advance. Next, the worker sets the pair of optical fibers 3 in the fusion splicing device 1, respectively. Specifically, the coating is removed while at least a part of the coating of the one optical fiber 3 (first optical fiber) into which the reinforcing sleeve 5 is inserted is clamped by the one coating clamp portion 15 (first coating clamp portion). The formed glass part is clamped by one glass clamp part 13 (first glass clamp part), and at least a part of the coating of the other optical fiber 3 (second optical fiber) is clamped by the other coating clamp part 15 (second The glass portion from which the coating has been removed is clamped by the other glass clamp portion 13 (second glass clamp portion) while being clamped by the coating clamp portion). Then, the worker fusion-splices the pair of clamped optical fibers 3. Then, as shown in FIG. 1A, after the fusion splicing, the worker uses the fingertip of the other end of the optical fiber 3 (second The optical fiber 3 (first optical fiber and second optical fiber) that has been clamped is removed with the optical fiber) pinched. Next, as shown in FIG. 1B, the worker contacts the reinforcing sleeve inserted in one optical fiber 3 (first optical fiber) with the fingertip holding the other optical fiber 3 (second optical fiber). The fusion splicing point is covered with a reinforcing sleeve by sliding until According to such a reinforcing method of the optical fiber 3, it is possible to efficiently perform the alignment work of the reinforcement sleeve (the work of aligning the fusion splicing point and the center of the reinforcement sleeve 5).
[0090]
　===Others=== The
　above-described embodiments are for facilitating the understanding of the present invention and are not for limiting the interpretation of the present invention. It goes without saying that the present invention can be modified and improved without departing from the spirit thereof and that the present invention includes equivalents thereof.
Explanation of symbols
[0091]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Fusion splicing device,
3 Optical fiber, 5 Reinforcement sleeve,
5A Outer tube, 5B Tensile strength member, 5C Hot melt adhesive,
10 Fusion splicing part, 11 Electrode (connection part),
13 Glass clamp part, 13A base part, 13B holding part,
15 covering clamp part, 15A base part, 15B holding part,
17 windshield cover, 20 heating part,
21 heater, 22 heater cover,
31 operation part, 32 display part,
51 alignment part, 51A plate part, 51B Fiber insertion part,
52 concave part, 54 fiber support part, 61 guide part,
91 guide, 92 guide part, 93 guide

The scope of the claims
[Claim 1]
　A connection part for fusion-splicing a pair of optical fibers,
　a glass clamp part provided outside the connection part, for clamping the removed glass part of the optical fiber,
　and provided outside the glass clamp part. A coating clamp portion that clamps at least a part of the coating of the optical fiber; a
　windshield cover that covers the connection portion, the glass clamp portion and the coating clamp portion; and the
　optical fiber fusion-spliced ​​by the connection portion. A heater for heating the reinforcing sleeve covered at the fusion splicing point of
　the device, and a position provided inside or outside the covering clamp portion on the upper surface of the device in the windshield cover, where the fingertips for pinching the optical fiber can be aligned. a mating portion
with a
　distance between the fusion splicing point and the positioning unit, fusion splicing apparatus which is characterized in that less than half the length of the heater.
[Claim 2]
　The fusion splicing device according to claim 1,
　wherein the distance between the alignment portion and the fusion splicing point is 34 mm or less.
[Claim 3]
　A connection part for fusion-splicing a pair of optical fibers,
　a glass clamp part provided outside the connection part, for clamping the removed glass part of the optical fiber,
　and provided outside the glass clamp part. A coating clamp portion that clamps at least a part of the coating of the optical fiber, a
　windshield cover that covers the connection portion, the glass clamp portion, and the coating clamp portion, and the coating clamp portion on the
　upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover. provided inside or outside, and the optical fiber plucked free fingertip alignable alignment of
with a
　longest distance between said alignment portion and fusion splicing point, it is put on the fusion splicing point The splicing device is characterized in that the length is less than half the length of the reinforcing sleeve.
[Claim 4]
　The fusion splicing device according to claim 3,
　wherein a distance between the alignment portion and the fusion splicing point is 31 mm or less.
[Claim 5]
　A connection part for fusion-splicing a pair of optical fibers,
　a glass clamp part provided outside the connection part, for clamping the removed glass part of the optical fiber,
　and provided outside the glass clamp part. A coating clamp portion that clamps at least a part of the coating of the optical fiber, a
　windshield cover that covers the connection portion, the glass clamp portion, and the coating clamp portion, and the coating clamp portion on the
　upper surface of the device inside the windshield cover. internal or provided outside, and the optical fiber plucked free fingertip alignable alignment unit
includes a
　distance between the positioning unit and the fusion splicing point, it is put on the fusion splicing point reinforcing A fusion splicer characterized by being half the standard length of a sleeve.
[Claim 6]
　The fusion splicing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
　wherein the coating clamp portion includes a base portion on which the optical fiber is placed and a holding portion that can be opened and closed with respect to the base portion. The
　fusion splicing device is characterized in that the alignment section is formed so as to cover at least a part of an outer side surface of the pressing section.
[Claim 7]
　The fusion splicing device according to claim 6,
　wherein the alignment portion has a pair of plate portions extending upward from the base portion, and a concave fiber insertion formed between the pair of plate portions. And a fusion splicing device.
[Claim 8]
　The fusion splicing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
　wherein a recess is formed outside the alignment portion.
[Claim 9]
　The fusion splicing apparatus according to claim 8,
　wherein the recess has a depth of 2 mm or more.
[Claim 10]
　The fusion splicing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
　wherein the coating clamp portion includes a base portion on which the optical fiber is placed, and a holding portion that can be opened and closed with respect to the base portion. The
　fusion splicing device is characterized in that the alignment portion is formed on the upper surface of the base portion facing the pressing portion.
[Claim 11]
　The fusion splicing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
　wherein the alignment portion has a concave curved surface, and the
　curved surface of the optical fiber extends from the coating clamp portion. A fusion splicer which is formed on the lower side.
[Claim 12]
　Before the fusion splicing, a reinforcing sleeve is inserted into the first optical fiber in advance
　, and at least a part of the coating of the first optical fiber is clamped by the first coating clamp portion while removing the coating of the first optical fiber. The removed glass portion is clamped by the first glass clamp portion, and at least a part of the coating of the second optical fiber is clamped by the second coating clamp portion, while the glass portion from which the coating of the second optical fiber is removed is removed. Clamping with the second glass clamp part,
　fusion-bonding the clamped first optical fiber and the second optical fiber
　, and fusion-splicing, which is the position of the upper surface of the device in the windshield cover. Removing the clamped first optical fiber and second optical fiber in a state in which the second optical fiber is pinched with a fingertip aligned with a position where the distance to the connection point is half of the reinforcing sleeve, and,
　said reinforcing sleeve inserted into said first optical fiber, by sliding until it comes into contact with the fingertip that is does picked the second optical fiber, by covering the reinforcing sleeve to the fusion splicing point
be performed A method for reinforcing an optical fiber, characterized by: