DE2934153A1 - DISTRIBUTION COUPLER - Google Patents

Description

description

The invention relates to a distribution coupler and, more particularly, to a distribution coupler which is connected to at least a set of optical fibers can be used.

Recently, transmission lines including optical fibers are increasingly used, to direct light from one place to another; these transmission lines consist of one or more optically conductive fibers arranged to form a flexible cable. Although such light guides are used for various purposes, they are increasingly used for used to transfer data from one place to another; this is done by a Light source emitted light with the data to be transmitted at one end of the cable and modulates the data recovered at the other end of the cable by means of a light-sensitive detector. As the data goes through a medium is transmitted that is not affected by radio frequency interference or rectification transmission lines containing optical fibers are particularly good for Suitable for use cases where a high level of security is required; so this is particularly true for the field of data processing.

Due to the increasing use of optical. Fiber-containing transmission lines are increasing Dimensions of connecting links are required that allow certain sections of such cables to be

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can connect the flow of the optical transmission path. It turned out that a precise axial, lateral and angular alignment is achieved between two cables containing optical fibers when the optical fibers of the cables terminate in connector pin arrangements in such a way that that there is a concentric alignment with respect to the external dimensions of the connecting pins. If two connecting pins are aligned concentrically and exactly, this ensures that that the optical fibers for the implementation of an efficient light transmission in the same way axially, be aligned laterally and in an angular direction.

Although the development of such connectors has only just begun, connector pin assemblies are already in place Such cables are available for connecting the optical fibers to the optical fibers align concentrically and exactly within acceptable tolerances. In the last few years There has been an increasing need for the development of suitable distribution headers that incorporate light to distribute transmission lines containing optical fibers, so that one-way or two-way communication from one or more optical fibers of a set of optical fibers to all of the optical fibers the same or a different set of optical fibers is possible. This new interest is due to the fact that in many applications an optical signal is distributed over several locations must become. In particular, what is needed are distribution couplers which operate in the manner described above work and at the same time a substantially uniform irradiation or illumination of a whole

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A set of optical fibers utilizing the light transmitted through one or more optical fibers or excessive light loss or excessive distortion of the pulse-shaped light signals. In addition, there is a need for a distribution coupler whose optical components are lightweight can be adjusted so that they work with different types of optical fibers and different groups of optical fibers can be used; this makes manufacturing at a reasonable cost and acceptable Tolerances possible.

The present invention is therefore in the broadest sense directed to a distribution coupler with at least one set of optical fibers can be used. Such a distribution coupler includes means for supporting the end portions of the optical fibers, means which accomplish this one or more optical fibers directs transmitted light onto an entire set of optical fibers, and means for adjusting the position of the light guide means relative to the mounting means for the fibers. Because of these design features, such a distribution coupler generates a substantially uniform exposure of all optical fibers of the entire set of optical fibers.

In particular, the coupler includes a connector for the optical fibers to reach the end portions of each set of optical fibers to hold. In the reflection mode, the coupler can be designed so that it is with A set of optical fibers works by allowing one or more optical fibers to pass therethrough Light is directed back onto the set of optical fibers

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will. A reflective element serves to prevent the transmitted Reflecting light towards the set of optical fibers while a focusing element serves to focus the reflected light onto the set of optical fibers. In the transmission mode The coupler is designed so that it can be used with two sets of optical fibers by the one or more optical fibers transmitting light is directed onto the other set of optical fibers. One shaping element is used to shape the light transmitted to the other by optical fibers, while a focusing element serves to direct the transmitted light onto the other set of optical fibers to focus. Finally, the coupler also contains housing sections that can be moved towards one another in a telescopic movement, the location of the optical elements relative to each connector for the optical fibers to be able to adjust.

In reflection mode, the distribution coupler includes a Means for supporting the end portions of the optical fibers of a set of optical fibers. Furthermore, a device is provided which allows the transmission through one or more optical fibers Directing light onto the set of optical fibers; this light guide device contains one in the reflection mode Arrangement for reflecting the transmitted light to the set of optical fibers and an arrangement to focus the reflected light onto the set of optical fibers; this light focusing arrangement is provided between the device for holding the fibers and the light reflection arrangement. Farther contains the distribution coupler in reflection mode an arrangement for adjusting the position of the light

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guide means relative to the means for holding the fibers in order to achieve a substantially uniform irradiation of the set of optical fibers.

For more details on working in reflection mode Distribution couplers include a housing with first and second housing sections that move in a telescopic motion can be shifted to each other in order to form at least one area of the device for position adjustment. According to a preferred embodiment, the first and second housing sections have corresponding ones Shape and a common longitudinal axis; they contain an arrangement for holding the light focusing device or the lens and the light reflecting arrangement or the mirror spaced apart in the housing. Appropriately the light focusing assembly or lens is held in one of the housing sections while the light reflecting arrangement or the mirror is supported in the other housing section, so that a Movement towards the light focusing arrangement or lens or away from it by utilizing an area of the Device for position adjustment is possible, whereby the housing sections are telescopic relative to one another can be moved. In addition, the distribution coupler includes a port in the reflection mode for the optical fibers with a socket which the end portions of the optical fibers of the set of optical fibers in close packing, so with a small distance from each other, holds parallel to each other, whereby Light transmission paths are created which run parallel to the common longitudinal axis of the housing sections.

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In the transmission mode, the distribution coupler includes means for supporting the end portions of the optical fibers of two sets of optical fibers spaced from each other. Furthermore is a facility intended to direct the light transmitted through one or more optical fibers onto the other set of straightening optical fibers; this light guide device has an arrangement for the transmission mode Shaping the light transmitted by a set of optical fibers and an arrangement for focusing the transmitted light on the other set of optical fibers. Also includes the distribution coupler in the transmission mode a device for adjusting the position of the light guide device relative to the means for holding the fibers to be substantially uniform To produce illumination of the other set of optical fibers.

For more details on the distribution coupler in transmission mode include a housing with first and second housing sections that are in telescopic relationship with one another stand so as to form at least a portion of the position adjustment device. After a In a preferred embodiment, the first and second housing sections have mutually corresponding shapes and a common longitudinal axis; they contain an arrangement for holding the light mold assembly or lens and the light focusing assembly or lens in the housing. The light shape arrangement or lens is expedient held in one of the housing sections and the light focusing arrangement or lens in the other housing section, allowing movement towards and away from the light form assembly or lens by utilizing the area the device for the position adjustment possible

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is, whereby de housing sections can be moved relative to each other in a telescopic movement. In addition, in the transmission mode, the distribution coupler also contains a connection for the opti- ~ see fibers, which is assigned to each of the housing sections and each contains a socket, which the End portions of the optical fibers of a set of optical fibers in close packing, that is to say with little Distance to each other, parallel to each other, whereby light transmission paths arise that are parallel run to the common longitudinal axis of the housing sections.

Thus, the present invention is directed to a distribution coupler that transmits light to multiple, optical Fiber-containing transmission lines distributed so that one-way or two-way communication from one or several optical fibers of a set of optical fibers to all optical fibers of the same or ■ another set of optical fibers is possible. The coupler can send an optical signal to several places distribute, thereby providing a substantially uniform irradiation of an entire set of optical fibers while the light that is transmitted through one or more optical fibers without excessive Takes advantage of light losses or excessive distortion of the pulse-shaped light signals. With this distribution coupler the optical components can be easily adjusted so that they can be used with different types of optical fibers and different groups of optical fibers can be used; through this the distribution coupler can be manufactured at reasonable prices and with acceptable tolerances.

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The invention thus provides a distribution coupler, and in particular a distribution coupler that with at least one set of optical fibers can be used. Recently, suitable distribution couplers have become needed to distribute light to multiple transmission lines containing optical fibers, that one-way or two-way communication by one or more optical fibers of a set of optical fibers to all optical fibers of the same or a different set of optical fibers is possible. In addition, a distribution coupler is needed in which the optical components can be easily adjusted so that this coupler works with different types of optical fibers and different Groups of optical fibers can be used; this makes the manufacture of such distribution couplers possible at reasonable prices and with acceptable tolerances.

The present invention fulfills this need by proposing a coupler that includes a bracket for the end regions of at least one set of optical fibers, a light guide element, around which by one or multiple optical fibers to direct transmitted light onto a whole set of optical fibers, and movable Elements for adjusting the position of the light guide element relative to the holder for the having optical fibers. With these design features, the distribution coupler creates an im substantially uniform illumination of all optical fibers of the entire set of optical fibers.

The invention will be described in the following on the basis of exemplary embodiments with reference to the enclosed

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schematic drawings explained in more detail. Show it

1 shows a section through a distribution coupler operating in reflection mode of the present invention,

2 shows a section through an alternative embodiment of one in reflection mode working distribution coupler according to the present invention,

3 shows, on an enlarged scale, a front view of a connector sleeve for optical fibers, namely in section along the line 3-3 of Figure 2,

4 shows a section through a distribution coupler operating in the transmission mode of the present invention, and

5 is a view, namely a side view, of an operating in the transmission mode Distribution coupler according to the present invention.

Referring to Figure 1, a distribution coupler in accordance with the present invention is indicated generally by the numeral 10. This coupler 10 can be used with at least one set of optical fibers 14 and includes a device 16 for holding the end regions of the optical fibers 14. In addition, the coupler Means 18 which the light which is transmitted through at least one optical fiber 14, towards the entire set 12 of optical fibers 14.

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Furthermore, the coupler 10 contains a device 20 to the position of the device 18 for aligning the Light relative to the holding device 16 for the fibers to adjust in this way a "substantially bring about uniform irradiation or illumination of the entire set 12 of optical fibers 14.

In the reflection mode (shown in FIG. 1) the distribution coupler 10 can be used with a set 12 of optical fibers 14 by passing through a or a plurality of optical fibers 14 directed transmitted light back onto the set 12 of optical fibers will. The distribution coupler 10 operating in the reflection mode then contains the device 16 for the Holding the fibers. It also contains the device 18 for aligning the light, this has an arrangement 22 to reflect the transmitted light back to the set 12 of optical fibers 14, and an assembly 24 to focus the light reflected onto the set 12 of optical fibers 14; the order 24 is located between the device 16 for holding the fibers and the light reflecting Arrangement 22. The distribution coupler operating in reflection mode 10 further includes an arrangement for adjusting the position of the aligning the light Device 18 relative to the device 16 for holding the fibers. With these design features the distribution coupler 10 produces substantially uniform illumination of the set 12 of optical fibers 14 in the reflection mode, that is in a mode of operation in which the light delivered by the optical fibers is returned to the fibers is reflected.

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In detail, the focusing arrangement 24 for the Light and the light-deflecting arrangement 22 (the are shown in Figure 1) arranged in a housing 26 in the reflection mode coupler 10. The case 26 includes first and second housing sections 28, 30 telescopically arranged with respect to one another, that is, can be telescoped into one another, and along a common longitudinal axis 32 so as to form at least a portion of the device 20 for position adjustment. The first and second housing sections 28 and 30 are shaped correspondingly to one another and contain means for holding the light focusing arrangement 24 at a certain distance from the light reflection device 22 (as will be described below) so that the light focusing assembly 24 in the housing section 28 and the light reflecting assembly 22 are supported in the other housing section 30; the arrangement is designed so that the light reflection arrangement 22 can be moved towards and away from the light focusing assembly 24 by the Area of the device 20 is used to adjust the position, whereby it is possible, the housing sections 28 and 30 telescopically move relative to each other. The housing 26 also includes a Connector for the optical fibers defining the means 16 for holding the fibers and longitudinally the common longitudinal axis 32 of the first and second housing sections 28 and 30 lies. Appropriately contains the connector 16 for the optical fibers a sleeve or sleeve 38, which the end portions of the optical fibers 14 lying close to each other (as shown in Figure 3) so that their end

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rich are held parallel to each other and to the common longitudinal axis 32; in this way there are light transmission paths defines / the parallel to the common longitudinal axis 32 of the housing sections 28 and 30 get lost.

As can also be seen from FIG. 1, the socket 38 holds the end faces of the optical fibers 14 in an optical manner Connection to the light focusing arrangement 24 and the light reflection arrangement 22. The socket 38 is expedient associated with the housing section 28 which holds the light focusing arrangement 24, the Light focusing arrangement 24 between the light reflection arrangement 22 and the end faces of the optical fibers 14 is arranged. Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, the optical fibers 14 are in the manner supported that their end faces are always in a plane that is perpendicular to the light transmission paths of the optical fibers 14 run.

As can be seen in Figure 1, as a light focusing arrangement 24 uses a focusing element such as a lens; in the light reflection arrangement 22 is a reflective element such as a mirror; the two elements are in the light transmission paths of all the optical fibers 14 are arranged. The mirror 22 can 'on the end faces of the optical fibers 14 and the lenses 24 are shifted towards and away from them by the area of the Means 20 is used to adjust the position, v / which enables the housing sections 28 and 3O are moved telescopically relative to each other. The lens 24 is expediently in a collar 34 in the Housing 26 attached and can be separated on the Endeflächenn of the optical fibers 14 to and from them

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moved to cover another area of the facility 20 to define the setting of the position. In addition, the housing section 30 includes an assembly 40 to secure housing sections 28 and 30; the housing portion 28 also includes an arrangement 42 for securing the collar 34 so that in cooperation of these parts the lens 24 and the mirror 22 in selected positions relative to the end faces the optical fibers 14 can be attached; this results in an essentially uniform one Irradiating all of the optical fibers 14 of the set 12 of optical fibers.

The lens 24 and the mirror 22 (see FIG. 1) are perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis 32 and the light transmission paths of the optical fibers 14, the socket 38 being at one end 44 of the housing 26, mirror 22 at the other end 46 of housing 26 and lens 24 between ends 44 and 46 of the housing 26 are located. The lens 24 therefore divides the housing 26 into two separate chambers 48 and 50 which extend along the common longitudinal axis 32 and the light transmission paths of optical fibers 14 extend through housing 26; According to a preferred embodiment, the two iden'ge separated chambers are connected to one another. As will be described in detail in connection with the alternative embodiment according to FIG the chambers are in communication with one another by a passage extending through at least one of the housing sections extends; the housing may have an arrangement to the chambers against the conditions in the To seal the area around the housing, so that no connection between the chambers and the space outside the Housing consists.

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As can be seen in FIG. 1, the housing 26 generally tube shape; the housing section 30 holds an end cap or cap-shaped cover at its end 46 52. The housing portion 30 includes an annular recess 58 with a depth that is substantially is equal to the thickness of the end cap 52, and having a diameter substantially equal to the diameter the end cap 52 is. The end cap 52, which has a central opening 54, is in the annular Recess 58 retained by any suitable fastening arrangement, such as through an epoxy resin (as indicated at 60). The mirror 22 is supported by the end cap 52 and only has to be dimensioned so that it is smaller than the end cap 52, but larger than the central opening 54 is. As can be seen, the mirror 22 is also on the end cap 52 by a suitable arrangement, such as epoxy resin, attached (as indicated at 62).

A long, cylindrical wall 64 of housing section 30 includes a through hole 66 at one point the scope. The through hole 66 is intended to receive, for example, a head screw or adjusting screw 40 that is used for this purpose serves, the telescopically telescoping housing sections 28 and 30 in a selected setting position to fix. This facilitates the movement between the housing sections 28 and 30 when a optical adjustment of the coupler 10 is to be carried out. The housing section 28 also includes a cylindrical wall 6 8 with a through hole 70 at a point around the circumference, for example a Kopfbzw. Can accommodate adjusting screw 42, which is to hold the collar 34 in a selected setting. With

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With these design features, the coupler IO operating in the reflection mode can have a substantially uniform one Generate illumination of the entire set 12 of optical fibers by one or more optical fibers 14 transmitted light by appropriate adjustment of the relative position of the optical Components 14, 22 and 24 is used.

As can also be seen in Figure 1, the housing section 28 contains a wall area 72 with a larger inner diameter and a wall portion 74 with a smaller inner diameter. The collar 34 is attached so that it is along the common longitudinal axis 32 in the wall region 34 with a smaller inner diameter can be moved in a sliding motion. An inwardly projecting, annular flange 76 is on the Transition area between the wall area 72 with a larger inner diameter and the wall area 74 with a smaller one arranged inner diameter and serves as a stop for the collar 74, whereby an axial movement of the Collar is limited in the direction of the socket 38 away. The end 44 of the housing section 28 contains a cap 78, which is fastened by screws (see at 80) to the wall area 74 with a smaller inner diameter. Of course the cap 78 can be removed, whereby the collar 34 is accessible, so that after loosening the adjusting screw 42, the setting of the position of the collar 34 is facilitated.

As the figure can further be seen, the collar 34 can between a position in which it the annular flange 76 touched and adjusted to any other position in which it is closer to the socket 38; is located the collar 34 is also still in this other position

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opposite the through hole 70 to be held by the adjusting screw 42. The collar 34 allows hence the fine adjustment of the lens 24 to thereby provide substantially uniform exposure to the whole Set 12 of optical fibers to ensure utilization of the light passing through at least one optical Fiber 14 is transmitted. It can also be seen that the collar 34 contains an internal thread 82, which cooperates with a threaded ring 84 on its outside to surround lens 24 to be fixed in the collar 34; this enables the lens 24 to be quickly exchanged for another lens. The threaded ring 34 can simply be unscrewed from the internal thread of the collar 34, the lens 24 removed and the replacement lens installed in the collar 34. In addition, the collar 34 in the housing section 28 so that the lens side of the collar is closer to the socket 38 or closer to the mirror 22, thereby creating an even greater range of adjustment if necessary.

The cap 78 includes an outwardly extending, internally threaded, tubular portion 86. This tubular portion 86 cooperates with an adapter 88 provided with an external thread, whereby the connection 16 is formed for the optical fibers. The adapter 88 is dimensioned and shaped so that it a pin 90 for the optical fibers containing the socket 38 through a central one provided therein Opening 92 receives.- The threaded adapter 88 allows adjustment of the pin 90 for the optical fibers, which are then fixed in a selected setting position by means of an adjusting screw 89 can be. The pin 90 for the optical fibers contains

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also an outwardly extending annular flange 93 which is joined with an inwardly extending flange 94 an internally threaded nut 96 cooperates. As can be seen from Figure 1, the Pin 90 for the optical fibers can be inserted into the externally threaded adapter 88 while the internal thread of the nut 96 can be screwed onto the external thread of the adapter 88 to the socket 38 in to fix a certain position in the connector 16 for the optical fibers.

The optical fibers 14 have line sections that are used to produce the connections for the optical Fibers are used for existing transmission lines. The connectors 98 for the optical fibers that shown in the figures are intended to indicate that the optical fibers 14 are connected to transmission lines containing optical fibers. Of course, the distribution coupler can also be equipped with optical Transmission lines containing fibers or optical fibers (as indicated at 14) are formed, long enough to extend to receiving stations. The optical fibers 14 could also with Other types of connectors or splicers can be fitted to the optical fibers with suitable transmission lines containing optical fibers. To those skilled in the art Various options are available to connect the distribution coupler 10 with suitable transmission lines, which contain optical fibers to connect.

FIG. 2 shows an alternative embodiment of a distribution coupler ΙΟ ¹ operating in the reflection mode, in which inventive principles are used

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also present in the vertex coupler IO according to FIG are. Corresponding elements of the two embodiments are in the drawings with corresponding Reference numerals have been provided, the reference numerals for the elements of the alternative embodiment from reasons for differentiation are indicated by dashes. In order to avoid repetition of the above description, the vertexing coupler 10 'is only explained to the extent that how it differs from vertexing coupler 10; otherwise the description of the distribution coupler applies 10 in the same way for the vertex coupler 10 '-

As can be seen, the lens 24 'divides the housing 26' into two separate chambers 48 'and 50'. The chambers 48 'and 50 * extend along the common longitudinal axis 32 'and the light transmission paths of the optical fiber 14' through the housing 26 '. The two separated Chambers 48 'and 50' are through a passage 51 ', which runs through at least one of the housing sections 28 ', in connection with one another. It also contains the housing 26 'means 53' to the chambers 48 'and 50' to be sealed against the conditions outside of the housing 26 ″, i.e. any influence on the chamber 48 ' and to prevent 50 'from the outside.

As can also be seen from Figure 2, the housing sections 28 'and 3O ¹ are generally tubular. The housing section 30 'contains an integral or one-piece formed end region 52' with an inner, annular flange 55 ^s . The mirror 22 'is supported against the ring 55' by any suitable arrangement such as epoxy resin (as indicated at 62 ').

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The long cylindrical wall 64 'of the housing section 30 'contains an internal thread, as indicated at 65', with an external thread 67 'on the generally cylindrical wall 68 'of the housing section 28' cooperates. This makes the arrangement 2O 'to Position adjustment formed, whereby the telescopic movement between the housing sections 28 'and 30' is simplified if an optical adjustment of the coupler 10 'is to be carried out; also will thereby the arrangement 40 'is formed, which the telescopically movable housing sections 28' and 30 'fixed in a selected setting position. With these design features, the coupler 10 ' substantially uniform exposure of the entire set 12 'of optical fibers by utilizing of the light transmitted through at least one optical fiber 14 'by using a suitable Adjustment of the relative position of the optical components 14 ", 22 'and 24' is carried out.

As can also be seen in Figure 2, the housing section 28 'contains a wall area 71' with a larger inner diameter and a wall area 73 'with a smaller inner diameter. The collar 34 'is along the common longitudinal axis 32 "in the wall area 71 'with larger inner diameter attached. The collar 34 'includes a through hole 75' and a circumferential cutout 77 'through which the chamber 48' communicates with the passage 51 'and thus with the chamber 50'.

The cap 78 'has an outwardly extending tubular shape Area 86 '. This tubular area 86 ' serves as a guide and holder for the optical fibers 14 '. They are at various points along their length

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optical fibers 14 'in front of where they are inserted into the Socket 38 'enter from the outer envelope to the Reinforcing elements, stripped to the inner covering and to the fibers themselves so that the fibers are exposed. The optical fibers 14 'are held in the socket 38' and the tubular portion 86 'with epoxy resin. In addition, the optical fibers 14 'are attached to the distribution coupler 10' by using a Attached to a piece of heat-shrinkable tube 87 ', that from near the point at which the tubular portion 86 'joins the cap 78' to a Position removed after the point at which the outer envelope is removed, in particular cut off; included Epoxy resin is used (as indicated at 89 ') to connect the optical fibers 14' together, with the tubular Area 86 'and to connect to the heat-shrinkable tube 87'.

For more details on the alternative embodiment of a reflective mode distribution coupler 10 'includes the use of an O-ring 91' between the Collar 34 'and lens 24 ". The slot (not shown) in the head of the screws 80' and the connection between the housing sections 28 'and 30' (as indicated at 93 ' is) can be provided with epoxy resin, especially for applications in which a hermetic sealed unit is required; in this way, the user can prevent the distribution coupler disassembles; In addition, the various components of the distribution coupler can be in the desired setting be fixed without a change in this position is possible. When the distribution coupler 10 'is hermetically is to be sealed, the housing section 30 'can be sealed off relative to the housing section 28'.

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be screwed until the O-ring 53 'is completely released will; then the coupler can then undergo a certain period of time in a vacuum chamber Be put under pressure; the vacuum chamber is then filled with dry nitrogen; right away then the housing section 3o 'can be screwed back into a position in which it can hold the O-ring 53' overlaps.

The distribution coupler 10 (shown in FIG. 4), the Operating in transmission mode, two sets 102 of optical fibers 104 can be used by the light passing through one or more of the optical fibers 104 of one of the sets 102 of optical fibers is directed to all of the optical fibers 104 of the other set 102 of optical fibers. The distribution coupler 100 operating in the transmission mode contains a device 106 for holding the End portion of the optical fibers 104 of the two sets 102 of optical fibers at a predetermined distance to each other. Furthermore, a device 108 is provided that the light emitted by one or more of the optical fibers 104 of one set 102 is passed on to all optical fibers 104 of the other set 1O2 judges; this device has a light shaping device 109 and a light focusing device 110 which are disposed between the two sets 102 of optical fibers. The one working in transmission mode Distribution coupler 104 also contains a device 112 for adjusting the position of the light guiding Arrangement 108 relative to the device 106 for holding the fibers. With these design features the distribution coupler 100 provides one substantially uniform illumination of the other set 102 of optical fibers 104 in transmission mode.

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In detail, the light shaping devices; 109 and the light focusing device 110 (see FIG. 4) of the coupler HO in the transmission mode a housing 114 is arranged. The housing 114 includes first and second housing sections 116 and 118, the are in a telescopic relationship to one another, i.e. can be telescoped into one another; the Housing sections 116 and 118 lie along a common longitudinal axis 120, so at least to form an area of the device 112 for position adjustment. The first and second housing sections 116 and 118 have corresponding shapes and contain means to adjust the light focusing means at a distance from the light shaping device 109 (as will be described below) in the manner to hold that the light focusing device 110 in the housing section 118 and the light shaping device Io9 supported in the other housing section 116; this allows them to take advantage of the area of Device 112 for setting the position can be moved towards and away from the light focusing device 110, so that the housing sections 116 and 118 can be telescopically displaced relative to one another. The case 114 further contains two connectors for the optical fibers, which hold the holding device 116 for the fibers and along the common longitudinal axis 120 of the first and second housing sections 116 and 118 form; one of the connectors 106 for the optical fibers is in each housing section 116 and 118 assigned so that it is at the opposite ends 130 and 132 of the housing 114. Appropriately The connectors 106 for the optical fibers each contain a socket 134, which the end regions of the optical fibers 104 of a set 102 with low

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Distance to each other, so tightly packed (similar to Figure 3) holds, so that the end regions of each sentence 1O2 are held parallel to one another and to the common longitudinal axis 120; this creates light transmission pathways that is defined parallel to the common longitudinal axis 120 of the housing sections 116 and 118 get lost.

As can also be seen from FIG. 4, each socket 134 holds the end faces of the optical fibers 104.-one Set 102 so that an optical connection with the light shaping device 109, the light focusing device 110 and the end faces of the optical fibers 104 of the other set 102. Both the light fitting 109 as well as the light focusing device 110 are between the end faces of the sets 102 of optical fibers arranged with the optical fibers 104 of each set being supported in such a manner as to that their end faces are always in a plane that is perpendicular to the light transmission paths of the optical Fibers 104 runs. The light shaping device 109 includes a shaping element such as a lens, while the light focusing device 110 includes a focusing element such as a lens; these both elements are arranged in the light transmission paths of all optical fibers 104. The two lenses 109 and 110 can approach one another by utilizing the area of the device 112 for position adjustment and moved away from each other, thereby allowing the housing sections 116 and 118 to telescope move relative to each other. Furthermore, each lens 109 and 110 is expediently in a collar 122 attached, the device for holding the light shaping device 109 and the light focusing device forms; this allows the lenses 109 and 110 to be separated

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are moved towards and away from the end faces of the adjacent optical fibers 104 so as to produce another Form area of the device 112 for position adjustment.

It can be seen that the lenses 109 and 110 are perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis 120 and the light transmission paths of the optical fibers 104 are arranged. The housing section 116 also includes a Means 136 in the form of a head or adjustment screw to close the housing sections 116 and 118 hold; the housing sections 116 and 118 each contain a device 138, also in the form of a Head or adjustment screw to secure the respective collars 122; in the interaction of these elements the lenses 109 and 110 can be in selected setting positions relative to the end faces of the adjacent optical Fibers 104 and are attached to each other so as to provide substantially uniform illumination of all optical fibers 104 to ensure a set 102 of optical fibers. In addition, the lenses are 109 and HO between the bandages 130 and 132 of the housing 114 at a distance from one another and from the end faces of the optical fibers 104 of the set 102 of optical fibers arranged around the housing 114 in three separate chambers 140, 142 and 144, which extend along the common longitudinal axis 120 and the light transmission paths through the housing 114. If necessary the chambers 140, 142 and 144 may be in communication with one another by a passage extending through the Housing sections 116 and 118 extends; the housing may have an arrangement around the chambers 140, 142 and 144 to seal off from the outside, so that no connection from the surroundings of the housing 114 to the chambers is possible;

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Details of this seal have been made in connection with the alternative embodiment of one in reflection mode working coupler according to Figure 2 explained.

FIGS. 4 and 5 show details of the construction which are similar to the details of the construction according to FIG. The main differences relate to minor changes in the device 106 for holding the Fibers and the collar 122. It can be seen, for example, that the housing section 116 is an end cap 146 secured at its end 130 by any suitable means such as screws 148; the housing section 118 also includes an end or end. End cap 146, which at its end 132 by suitable Means, such as screws 148, is attached. The corresponding bracket 106 for the Fibers then have an internally threaded annular flange 154 attached to each cap 146 is attached by means of suitable fastening elements, such as, for example, with the aid of screws 156. The annular flanges 154 receive suitable externally threaded adapters 158, which in turn sized and shaped to accept pins 160 for the optical fibers. The threaded ones provided adapter 158 allow the adjustment of the pins 160 for the optical fibers, which subsequently can be fixed in selected positions with the aid of adjusting screws 159. The pins 160 for the optical Fibers are in bores 162 that extend through the threaded adapters 158 with With the help of nuts 164 attached. Of course, the fiber mounts 106 have at each end of the housing 114 is suitably the same construction in order to facilitate manufacture.

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With respect to the collar 122 it may be noted that the corresponding lenses 110 and 109 therein by suitable means such as epoxy resin (as indicated at 170) against radial flanges 166 are mounted. As in the embodiment of the operating in reflection mode shown in FIG Distribution coupler 10 is a stop 123 for the collar 122 is provided. The end caps 146 can be removed, the adjusting screws 138 loosened and the Collars 122 are moved along the common longitudinal axis 120 towards the bushings 134 and away from them, to adjust the positions of lenses 109 and 110 relative to optical fibers 104. In a similar way For example, the adjustment screws 136 may be loosened to hold the housing sections 116 and 118 relative to one another to move telescopically, whereby the position of the lenses 109 and 110 can be adjusted to each other; all this facilitates the creation of a substantially uniform exposure of all of the optical fibers 104 of one 1O2 set of optical fibers.

Although different lenses or lens combinations can be used for the present invention, a single biconvex lens has been found to work particularly well for one operating in reflective mode Distribution coupler is suitable, while for the distribution coupler operating in the transmission mode expediently plano-convex lenses are used. By using these lenses it is it is no longer necessary to adjust the size of the mixing rods to the face of a set of optical fibers, as was the case with conventional couplers. Basically it makes the use of lenses that come with that a device for adjusting the position of the optical components are coupled, possible even from one

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uneven source a substantially uniform exposure, both in amount and in angular distribution, to obtain.

By taking advantage of the features of the present invention, the distribution coupler can be substantially monochromatic Distribute portions of the light from each optical fiber so that the amount and the angular distribution of light incident on each optical fiber of a set of optical fibers is equivalent to the shape of the signal pulses in the optical fiber containing transmission lines after passing through to make the coupler the same. The coupler can be adjusted to work with any type of optical fiber cables containing cables or transmission lines containing different optical fibers can be used, by only changing the distances between the optical elements; this way is not an exchange of the optical elements are more required. According to the present invention, the optical elements are used for The collection, shaping, and direction of light in such a way that one is essentially uniform illumination of all optical fibers of a set of optical fibers is ensured.

Both for the in reflection mode and for the im Transmission mode distribution coupler can be the ideal location for the optical components for each particular optical fiber can be determined in a conventional manner, namely by simple calculation. It is also possible to adjust the optical components in each mode by changing the power in the optical fibers is measured to determine when the performance is substantially equivalent for all fibers. About that

030011/0722

In addition, in the case of the optical coupler operating in the transmission mode, the adjustment of the position of the optical Components are simply carried out by removing an angle flange and a translucent paper is used in its place to visually check the light distribution.

Regardless of the way in which the position of the optical components is set, the present one creates Invention eirai in significantly improved distribution coupler, which distributes the light among the optical fibers containing transmission lines in such a way that one-way or two-way communication from one or more optical fibers to a set of optical fibers all optical fibers of the same set or a different set of optical fibers is possible. In order to So the goal is to use a coupler to distribute an optical signal to several locations in this way achieves that provides substantially uniform illumination of an entire set of optical fibers wherein the light transmitted through one or more optical fibers without excessive loss of light or excessive distortion of the shape of the light signal pulses is used. And finally she hits The present invention proposes a distribution coupler which enables the adjustment of the optical components used in different Types of optical fibers and also different groups of optical fibers are used in the way that it can be manufactured at reasonable prices and with acceptable tolerances.

03001 1/0722

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Claims (1)

Patent attorneys: A. GjRUNECKER H. KINKELDEY W. STOCKMAIR Oa-ING A »t ICWECH! K. SCHUMANN Ο «Pta NAT ■ DfV -PHVS P. H. JAKOB DiPL ING G. BEZOLD ■ a «.- ct« M 8 MUNICH 22 MAXIMILANSTRASSE 43 23 Aug 1979 P 14183 BUNKER SAMO CORPORATION Commerce Drive, Oak Brook, 111. 60521, USA Distribution coupler Claims 1 / Distribution coupler for at least one set of optical fibers, characterized by a device (16, 16 ', 106) for holding the end regions of the optical fibers (14, IA' , 104) , by a device (18, 13 ', 108) ) to manage the through a
or several optical fibers {14, 14 ^s , 104) of transmitted light 3ij, f a whole set (12, 12% 102}
of optical fibers '11, 14 ', in4), and through an Ein ™ - _M ρ <- direction (20, 20 ', 112) for adjusting the position of the light guide ^{device (18, 18 1} , 108) relative to the device (16, 16', 106) for holding the fibers (14, 14 ', 104) to to ensure a substantially uniform irradiation of the entire set (12, 12 ', 1Ο2) of optical fibers (14, 14 ¹ , 1Ο4). 2. Distribution coupler according to claim 1, characterized by a housing (26, 26 ', 114) in which the light guide device (18, 18', 108) is arranged. 3. Distribution coupler according to claim 2, characterized in that the housing (26, 26 ', 114) first and second housing sections (28, 30; 28 ', 30'; 116, 118) which are telescopically related to one another so as to at least one portion of the position adjusting device (2O, 20 ', 112), the first and second housing sections (28, 30; 38', 30 '; 116, 118) have mutually corresponding shapes and a common longitudinal axis (32, 32 ', 120). 4. Distribution coupler according to claim 3, characterized in that the light guide device (18, 18 ', 108) includes a lens extending along the common longitudinal axis (32, 32 ', 12O) at a distance from the entire Set (12, 12 ', 1Ο2) of optical fibers (14, 14', 104) is arranged. 030011/0722 5. Distribution coupler according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the housing (26, 114) contains at least one connector for the optical fibers (14, 14 ", 104), which the means for holding of the optical fibers. 6. Distribution coupler according to claim 5, characterized characterized in that the connector for the optical fibers (14, 14 ', 104) contains a socket (38, 38', 134), which holds the end portions of the optical fibers (14, 14 *, 104) in a tightly packed arrangement, and that the optical fibers (14, 14 ', 104) are supported in such a way that their end regions are parallel to one another are held, resulting in parallel light transmission paths. 7. Distribution coupler according to claim 6, characterized characterized in that the socket X38, 38 ', 134) the end faces of the optical fibers (14, 14', 104) in optical connection with the Lichtlextexnrichtung: (18, 18 ', 108V 109) holds, and that the optical Fibers (14, 14 ', 104) are supported in such a way that their end faces are kept in one plane, which runs perpendicular to the light transmission paths of the optical fibers (14, 14 ', 104). 8. Distribution coupler according to one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the housing (26, 26 ', 114) has a movable collar (122) which at least one region of the device (20, 20 ', 112) to adjust the position. 030011/0722 9. Distribution coupler according to claim 8, characterized in that the collar (122) the light guide device (18, 18 ', 108, 1O9) in the housing (26, 26 *, 114), and that the light guide device contains a lens that is spaced from the optical Fibers (14, 14 ', 104) is arranged. 10. Distribution coupler according to claim 9, characterized in that the housing (26, 26 ', 114) has a Means for securing the movable collar (122) in a selected position relative to the optical fibers '(14, 14', 104). 11. Distribution coupler according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the light guide device an arrangement for reflecting the transmitted light to the set of optical fibers (102) and includes an arrangement for focusing the reflected light on the set of optical fibers (104), wherein the light focusing arrangement between the means (106) for holding the fibers (104) and the light reflection arrangement is arranged. 12. Distribution coupler according to claim 11, characterized by a housing (114) in which the light focusing arrangement (110) and the light reflector arranged are. 03001 1/0722 13. Distribution coupler according to claim 12, characterized in that the housing (114) is first and second Housing sections (116, 118) contains that the first and second housing sections (116, 118) one another have a corresponding shape and a common longitudinal axis (120) that the housing sections (116, 118) a Device for holding the light focusing arrangement and the light reflection arrangement at a distance from one another contained in the housing (114), and that the light focusing arrangement in one of the housing sections and the light reflecting assembly are supported in the other housing portion, the light reflecting assembly by utilizing an area of the 'device for setting the position on the light focusing arrangement can be moved towards and away from it, causing telescopic movement of the housing sections (116, 118) is possible relative to one another. 14. Distribution coupler according to claim 13, characterized in that the light focusing arrangement (110) a lens and the light reflecting arrangement contains a mirror that the lens and the mirror in the Light transmission paths of the optical fibers (104) are arranged that the mirror on the end faces of the optical fibers (104) is movable to and away from them by the area of the device for Position adjustment is used, whereby the housing sections (116, 118) are telescopic relative to one another can be moved, and that the lens is mounted and separated in a collar (122) in the housing (114) on the end faces of the optical fibers (104) to and away from them is movable to another Form area of the facility for position adjustment. 030011/072 2 15. Distribution coupler according to claim 14, characterized in that the housing (114) has a device for attaching the housing sections (116, 118) in a selected setting position that the housing portion holding the lens includes means for mounting the collar (122) in a selected setting position, that the housing sections (116, 118) and the collar (122) have the device for setting the position and allow, that the lens and mirror in the housing (114) relative to the end faces of the optical fibers (104) can be adjusted to provide a substantially uniform irradiation of the set (1O2) of optical To produce fibers (104). 16. Distribution coupler according to claim 15, characterized in that the lens and the mirror are perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis (120) and the light transmission paths are arranged that the mirror at the other end of the housing (114) and that the lens is provided between the ends of the housing (114) is arranged, wherein the lens divides the housing (114) into two separate chambers which extend along the common longitudinal axis (120) and the light transmission paths through the housing (114). 17. Distribution coupler according to claim 16, characterized in that the two through the housing (114) extending chambers are interconnected by a passage extending through at least one of the Housing sections (116, 118) extends, and that the housing (114) has an arrangement for sealing the chambers 030011/0722 against the external environment of the housing (114). 18. Distribution coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 17 for use with two sets of optical Fibers, characterized in that the optical fibers (104) of a set (102) at a distance from the optical Fibers (1O4) of the other set (102) are held that the light guide device by one or several of the optical fibers (104) of a set (1O2) transmitted light onto all optical fibers (104) of the other sentence (1O2) directs that the light guide means an arrangement for focusing the light on all optical fibers 104) of the other set (102) that the light focusing arrangement between the Sets (102) of optical fibers (104) is arranged, and that the device for position setting the adjustment the position of the light guide device relative to the holder (106) for the fibers (104) allows to a substantially uniform exposure of all optical fibers of the other set (102) of optical fibers Allow fibers (104). 19. Distribution coupler according to claim 18, characterized by a housing (114) in which the light focusing arrangement (110) is arranged. 20. Distribution coupler according to claim 19, characterized in that the housing (114) is first and second Housing sections (116, 118) telescopically moving with one another about at least a portion the device (112) for the position adjustment 030011/0722 form that the first and second housing sections (116, 118) mutually corresponding shapes and a common Have longitudinal axis (120) and an arrangement for holding the light focusing arrangement (110) in the housing (114) have. 21. Distribution coupler according to claim 20, characterized by one in one of the housing sections (116, 118) mounted light shaping device (109), the light focusing arrangement (110) in the other housing section (116, 118) is supported, and wherein the light form arrangement (109) by utilizing the area of Means (112) for adjusting the position of the light focusing arrangement (110) can be moved towards and away from it is, whereby a telescopic movement of the housing sections (116, 118) relative to one another is possible. 22. Distribution coupler according to claim 21, that the light shaping arrangement (109) and the light focusing arrangement (110) each contain a lens that the lenses in the light transmission paths of the optical fibers (1O4) are arranged that each lens by utilizing the Area of the device (112) for position adjustment on and away from the other lens, whereby a telescopic movement of the housing sections (116, 118) relative to one another is possible, and that each lens is mounted in a collar (122) in the housing (114) and attached to the optical fibers (104) to and away from them is movable to a wider area of the device (112) for the position adjustment to build. 030011/0722 - Q _ 23. Distribution coupler according to claim 22, characterized in that the housing (114) is an arrangement for mounting the housing sections (116, 118) in a selected setting position that each Housing portion (116, 118) holding one of the lenses, an arrangement for attaching the corresponding Has collar in a selected position that the housing sections (116, 118) and the collar (122) has a position adjustment device, whereby the lenses in the housing (114) adjusted relative to the end faces of the respective set (102) of optical fibers and to each other can be to ensure a substantially uniform irradiation of all optical fibers (104) of the other Set (102) of optical fibers (104). 24. Distribution coupler according to claim 23, characterized in that the lenses (109, 110) are perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis (120) and the light transmission paths are arranged that the lenses (109, 110) between the ends of the housing (114) at a distance from each other and from the end faces of the Set of optical fibers (104) are provided, and that the lenses (109, HO) the housing (114) in three separate chambers (140, 142, 144) which extend along the common longitudinal axis (120) and of the light transmission paths extend through the housing (114). 030011/0722