DE10023463B4 - Connectors - Google Patents

Abstract

Connectors (10) for Optical fiber (18) with two connector parts (12, 12) 14), one of which with at least one optical ferrule (16) and the other with at least one electro-optical module (20). is provided on the one hand at least one optical input and / or Output (22) and on the other hand electrical connection contacts (24) having, with mated connector parts (12, 14) the ferrule (16) the optical output or input (22) of the electro-optical Opposite module (20), characterized in that the Electro-optical module (20) an at least partially flexible body (28), which is so compressible and / or to generate a spring force deformable is that being the optical input or output (22) exhibiting end resiliently in an end position is loaded, in which the optical input and output (22) the ferrule (16) is opposite.

Description

The The invention relates to a connector for optical fibers with two mating Connector parts, one of which with at least one optical Ferrule and the other with at least one electro-optical module is provided on the one hand at least one optical input and / or output and on the other hand has electrical connection contacts, wherein when mated Connect the ferrule the optical output or input of the electro-optical Module opposite. Under an electro-optical module is an arbitrarily executed module to understand in which optical signals into electrical signals and / or electrical signals are converted into optical signals. The electrical connection contacts a respective electro-optical module, for example, with a Soldered PCB become.

The operability of optical fiber connectors of the type mentioned is of the mutual alignment of the optical components dependent. A misalignment of these components can lead to greater light losses to lead and consequently the functionality of the entire fiber optic system.

One from the DE 30 07 803 A1 Known optical coupling device has a housing with a light waveguide end receiving hollow cylindrical approach and an adjoining chamber for receiving a socket for example, a light emitting diode. The socket is pressed by a separate spring element arranged between it and the chamber wall facing away from the hollow cylindrical projection against an annular wall of the chamber adjacent to the projection, thereby aligning the optically active surface of the light emitting diode parallel to the end face of the optical waveguide fixed in the hollow cylindrical projection.

From the DE 26 22 607 A1 is a connector for an optical waveguide and an optical device known, which may be, for example, a transmitting or receiving diode. The optical waveguide is fixed over its sheath in a plug of the connector. The stripped free from the sheath end of the optical waveguide protrudes freely into a trough-like receptacle of the plug. The connector further comprises a coupling part with a centering, in which the optical fiber end is threaded during insertion of the plug into the coupling part. The centering ends in the region of a perpendicular to this wall of a groove having portion of the coupling part, against which the optical component is held. In order to ensure that the effective optical surface of the optical component is aligned parallel to the end face of the optical waveguide end, the optical component is pressed against this wall by a separate spring element.

aim The invention is a connector of the aforementioned To create kind, in which with respect to the optical function resulting tolerance in a simple and reliable way possible is kept small. In particular, it should be in the axial direction resulting tolerance range are kept as small as possible.

These The object is achieved according to the invention in that the electro-optical module has an at least partially flexible base body, generating a spring force is so compressible and / or deformable that his optical input or output exhibiting end resiliently in an end position loaded, in which the optical input or output of the ferrule is opposite.

by virtue of This training will be in terms of the optical function resulting tolerance range is reduced to a minimum, so that after a each mating the connector parts always optimal Function guaranteed is. In particular, concerning itself the optical function in the axial direction resulting tolerance range is significantly reduced. Given by the flexible body of the Electro-optical module formed spring is minimal constructional Effort ensures an optimal connection. On the usual complicated alignment concepts can therefore be dispensed with. After the spring is provided on the side of the electro-optical module is, there is no longer the risk that with the respective ferrule provided light guide at a tensile load acting on this is removed from the electro-optical module. The optical ferrule can now be fixed in the relevant connector part. The invention is particular applicable to hybrid connectors. In axial or Plug-in direction occurring alignment tolerances of the respective electro-optical Systems are optimized in a simple and reliable way.

According to one preferred embodiment of inventive connector is the electro-optical module based on a three-dimensional injection molded circuit board, i.e. on the basis of a so-called MID- (molded interconnected device) formed. Such an MID can be used on its surface be provided a printed circuit.

In this case, the electro-optical module in the MID integrated or mounted on this one-chip electro-optical device.

Of the Electro-optical module can also be based on a particular MID is formed, which is designed as an SMD component (SMD = surface mounted device).

In or on the MID can further circuits associated with the electro-optical component be provided.

The Electro-optical module may in particular be an optical or electro-optical Transceiver module include or be provided as a transceiver module.

At his optical input or output end having the Electro-optical module preferably provided with a plug-in receptacle, in the ferrule can be inserted. This plug-in receptacle forms one Art optical chamber, which may be formed by the MID itself can. At the same time, this makes it possible for the optical through the MID Be created connecting chamber.

The the optical input or output end of the electro-optical Module is in its final position expediently at one of the relevant Connector part associated, extending transversely to the axial direction stop surface at.

From Another advantage is when in the assembled state with the Ferrule provided connector part at a transverse to the axial direction extending, the other connector part associated abutment surface.

at a preferred embodiment of the connector according to the invention the ferrule is fixed in the relevant connector part. Also at a tensile load of the relevant light guide is thus excluded, that the Ferrule is removed from the electro-optical module.

The in particular provided with the electro-optical module connector part be designed as a header or chip holder.

Of the Connector can be used in particular as a hybrid connector accomplished be.

With leave the connector according to the invention especially with regard to the positioning of chips (e.g., LED and PD) meet tight tolerances. Here are values for example, less than 20 microns be achieved. The respective transceiver circuit design becomes much more flexible. There is more space available than in versions with Holding frame (leadframe). A respective, the recipient adjacent postamplifier can be integrated more easily. There can be more connection contacts be provided. The tracks and the Zwischenräu me can very be small and e.g. are in a range of about 50 microns. The integration of capacities or capacitors is simplified. SMD caps (SMD caps) are cheaper as bond types. The MID can be designed as an SMD component. The MID can simultaneously realize an optical chamber become. It can be easily done in a wide range Realize hybrid connection systems. The manufacturing costs are significantly reduced overall. This way you can easily various components, component holder, shield and / or the like integrate. examples for For example, MIDs can be found in the field of infrared sensors.

In the dependent claims are further advantageous embodiments specified.

The Invention will be described below with reference to exemplary embodiments with reference closer to the drawing explains; in this show:

1 a schematic, partially sectioned view of a fiber optic connector and

2 a schematic, partially sectioned view of another embodiment of an optoelectronic chip or component comprehensive electro-optical module of the optical fiber connector.

1 shows a schematic, partially sectioned view of an optical fiber connector 10 with two connector parts that can be plugged together 12 . 14 ,

The connector part 12 is with at least one optical ferrule 16 provided at the end of a respective light guide 18 is arranged and serves to receive and center the fiber. The fiber is in the ferrule 16 attached, and the ferrule is snapped into the plug.

The other connector part 14 is with at least one electro-optical module 20 Mistake. In this case, an electro-optical module is to be understood as an arbitrarily designed module in which optical signals are converted into electrical signals and / or electrical signals are converted into optical signals.

That the ferrule 16 receiving connector part 12 For example, as a plug-in part and the electro-optical module 20 receiving connector part 14 be provided for example as a receiving part. The connector part 14 can thus be designed in particular as a so-called header or chip holder. In particular, an embodiment of the connector as a hybrid connector is possible.

The electro-optical module 20 on the one hand has at least one optical input and / or output 22 and on the other hand electrical connection contacts 24 on. The optical input or output 22 opens into a plug-in receptacle forming an optical chamber 26 into which the ferrule 16 protrudes at mated connector parts. For assembled connector parts 12 . 14 is the ferrule 16 or the relevant optical fiber end thus the optical output or input 22 of the electro-optical module 20 across from.

As based on the 1 can be seen, has the electro-optical module 20 a basic body 28 in an area between its optical input and output end and its electrical connection contacts 24 having the end bent zigzag and thus designed to be flexible. The main body 28 of the electro-optical module 20 is thus compressible and / or deformable to produce a spring force, that be the optical chamber or plug-in receptacle 26 and the optical input and output 22 having end resiliently to the ferrule 16 is charged. Because of this the electro-optical module 20 inherent spring 46 the module end in question is thus resiliently held in a respective end position in which the optical input and output 22 the ferrule 16 opposite.

The electro-optical module 20 may in particular be formed on the basis of a three-dimensional injection-molded circuit carrier (MID, molded interconnected device), the surface of which is advantageously provided with a printed circuit.

In this case, the electro-optical module 20 for example, an integrated in the MID or attached to this electro-optical single-chip device 30 include. In principle, it is also conceivable that the electro-optical module 20 is formed on the basis of an MID, which is designed as an SMD component (SMD = surface mounted device). It may also be the electro-optical component 30 associated circuits 32 be integrated in or attached to the MID. So can the electro-optical component 30 For example, be followed by a post-amplifier and / or the like. In the 1 are also tracks 34 to recognize that serve the production of the required electrical connections.

The electro-optical module 20 can be designed in particular as a transceiver module.

In the present embodiment, this is the plug-in receptacle 26 and the optical input and output 22 having the end of the electro-optical module 20 in its final position on a connector part in question 14 associated, transversely to the axial or plug-in direction z extending stop surface 36 at. The ferrule 16 provided connector part 12 lies after a mating of the two connector parts 12 . 14 on a transverse to the axial direction z stop surface 38 of the connector part 14 at.

The two stop surfaces 36 . 38 are on two opposite sides of a transverse wall 40 of the connector part 14 intended. This transverse wall 40 is with an opening 42 provided, through which the ferrule 16 in the optical chamber forming plug-in receptacle 26 of the electro-optical module 20 extends.

As based on the 1 can be seen, is available for the provided with an integrated spring function electro-optical module relatively much space. In addition, results in the field of optical chamber 26 an optimal optical interface with very low tolerances.

The intended example as SMD contacts electrical connection contacts 24 of the electro-optical module 20 can be soldered in particular on a circuit board.

2 shows a schematic, partially sectioned view of another embodiment of the electro-optical module 20 of the connector. In this case, the main body 28 of the electro-optical module 20 generally bent in an S-shape to create the spring 46 to create the necessary flexibility. This results in particular in the bending areas corresponding flexible zones 44 ,

In the in the 2 bent down front area of the main body 28 is again a corresponding electro-optical device 30 such as in particular an optoelectronic chip or the like provided. In this area is again with the ferrule 16 to be aligned optical input or output 22 (see. 1 ) intended.

In the upper area 48 of the generally S-shaped bent body 28 of the electro-optical module 20 there is room for further the electro-optical component 30 associated circuits 32 which may be, for example, bonded chips and / or the like.

In the lower part of the generally S-shaped basic body 28 of the electro-optical module 20 For example, are again electrical connection contacts 24 intended. In particular, again SMD connections are conceivable.

Otherwise this can be found in the 2 shown electro-optical module 20 be rebuilt as it is based on the design according to 1 has been described.

The illustrated embodiment of the body in 1 is meant here only as an example to illustrate the springy range. Also the representation in 2 should primarily only clarify the functionality again.

• 1. ein flexibler MID, wie beschrieben
• 2. eine Verbindung zweier starrer Körper mit einer flexiblen Leiterplatte (FCB, flexible circuit board)
• 3. eine Verbindung mit einem anisotrop leitenden Gummi, wobei die Leitfähigkeit nur in einer Richtung gegeben ist, z.B. wie bei einer LCD-Anzeige

It is particularly important that the optics sits in the front and opposite to the ferrule. Decisive in particular is the flexible part of the body. To implement practical embodiments, the following is possible, for example:

• 1. a flexible MID as described
• 2. a connection of two rigid bodies with a flexible printed circuit board (FCB)
• 3. a compound with an anisotropically conductive rubber, wherein the conductivity is given only in one direction, eg as in an LCD display

From Meaning is u.a. the possibility, to bond an electronic chip directly to the component. hereby the function of the component can be changed, under Maintaining all mechanical dimensions.

From the decisive advantage are thus in particular those specified in the claims Optoelectrics, flex area and PCB connection.

10

Connectors

12

connector part

14

connector part

16

ferrule

18

optical fiber

20

electro-optical module

22

optical Input or output

24

electrical connecting contacts

26

optical Chamber, plug-in receptacle

28

body

30

electro-optical Component, optoelectronic chip

32

circuits

34

conductor tracks

36

stop surface

38

stop surface

40

partition

42

opening

44

flexible zones

46

feather

48

Area for circuits

z

axial or plug-in direction

Claims (14)

Connector ( 10 ) for optical fibers ( 18 ) with two connector parts ( 12 . 14 ), one of which with at least one optical ferrule ( 16 ) and the other with at least one electro-optical module ( 20 ), on the one hand at least one optical input and / or output ( 22 ) and on the other hand electrical connection contacts ( 24 ), wherein at mating connector parts ( 12 . 14 ) the ferrule ( 16 ) the optical output or input ( 22 ) of the electro-optical module ( 20 ), characterized in that the electro-optical module ( 20 ) an at least partially flexible body ( 28 ), which is so compressible and / or deformable by generating a spring force that its the optical input or output ( 22 ) end is resiliently loaded in an end position in which the optical input or output ( 22 ) of the ferrule ( 16 ) is opposite. Connector according to claim 1, characterized in that the electro-optical module ( 20 ) is formed on the basis of a three-dimensional injection-molded circuit carrier (MID). Connector according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the electro-optical module ( 20 ) in the injection-molded circuit carrier (MID) integrated or mounted on this electro-optical one-chip component ( 30 ). Connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electro-optical module ( 20 ) is formed on the basis of an injection-molded circuit carrier (MID), which is designed as an SMD component. Connector according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that further the electro-optical component ( 30 ) associated circuits ( 32 ) are integrated in or mounted on the injection molded circuit carrier (MID). Connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electro-optical module ( 20 ) is provided as a transceiver module. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the basic body ( 28 ) of the electro-optical module ( 20 ) at least partially generally bent zigzagförmig. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the basic body ( 28 ) of the electro-optical module ( 20 ) is bent at least partially generally S-shaped. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electro-optical module ( 20 ) at its the optical input or output ( 22 ) end with a plug-in receptacle ( 26 ) into which the ferrule ( 16 ) can be inserted. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical input or output ( 22 ) end of the electro-optical module ( 20 ) in its end position on a connector part ( 14 ), transversely to the axial direction (z) extending stop surface ( 36 ) is present. Plug-in connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the assembled state, the one with the ferrule ( 16 ) provided connector part ( 12 ) on a transversely to the axial direction (z) extending, the other connector part ( 14 ) associated stop surface ( 38 ) is present. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ferrule ( 16 ) in the relevant connector part ( 12 ) is fixed. Plug-in connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that with the electro-optical module ( 20 ) provided connector part ( 14 ) is executed as a header. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized that he is designed as a hybrid connector (hybrid connector).