EP3365713A1

EP3365713A1 - Optical plug connector device

Info

Publication number: EP3365713A1
Application number: EP15784023.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Christian Gsell; Andreas Rose; Blanca Ruiz; Fabian Eggimann; Günter HERR; Verena CERNA
Original assignee: Reichle and De Massari AG
Current assignee: Reichle and De Massari AG
Priority date: 2015-10-21
Filing date: 2015-10-21
Publication date: 2018-08-29
Also published as: US20180314012A1; WO2017067583A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an optical plug connector device comprising at least one lens array (12a; 12b; 12c) and at least one fibre holder (14a; 14b; 14c) which is provided to position end regions (16a; 16b; 16c) of a plurality of optical fibres (18a; 18b; 18c) relative to the lens array (12a; 12b; 12c), and which has at least one first fibre-holding element (20a; 20b; 20c). According to the invention, the fibre holder (14a; 14b; 14c) comprises at least one second fibre-holding element (22a: 22b; 22c), which has a higher level of manufacturing precision than the first fibre-holding element (20a; 20b; 20c).

Description

Optical connector device

The invention relates to an optical connector device according to claim 1.

From US 2012/0093462 A1 a multi-fiber plug is known which comprises a ferrule and a lens array formed integrally with the ferrule. Conical channels are provided in the ferrule, which are intended to receive one optical fiber each and to align the optical fibers relative to the lens array.

Furthermore, prior art MPO and MTP ferrules are known in which alignment of optical fibers occurs by means of precision recesses. An introduction of the precision recesses takes place under a high production cost, resulting in high component costs. A game between the Präzisionsausnehmungen and arranged in the Präzisionsausnehmungen optical fibers can not be prevented. Further, during a manufacturing process, a plurality of optical fibers must be introduced into the individual precision recesses, whereby this introduction process can not be carried out automatically. Another disadvantage of the known MPO and MTP ferrules is the requirement of high, with increasing number of optical fibers increasing, contact forces.

The object of the invention is in particular to provide a generic optical connector device with advantageous properties in terms of production and / or in terms of manufacturing costs. The object is achieved by the features of claim 1, while advantageous embodiments and modifications of the invention can be taken from the dependent claims. Advantages of the invention

The invention is based on an optical connector device with at least one lens array and with at least one fiber holder, which is intended to position end regions of a plurality of optical fibers relative to the lens array, and which has at least one first fiber retaining element.

It is proposed that the fiber holder comprises at least a second fiber-holding element, which has a higher manufacturing accuracy than the first fiber-holding element.

An "optical connector device" is to be understood here and below to mean, in particular, a part, in particular a subassembly, of an optical connector, in particular an optical connector, and / or a particularly prefabricated optical cable a unit can be understood, which has a plurality of mechanically interconnected optical lens elements. In particular, the lens elements of the lens array are arranged such that the optical axes of the lens elements extend at least substantially parallel to one another. In particular, the lens elements can be arranged in a common plane or in a plurality of planes, which in particular run at least substantially parallel to one another. By "at least substantially parallel" should be understood in particular an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, in particular in a plane, wherein the direction relative to the reference direction a deviation in particular less than 1 °, advantageously less than 0.5 ° and particularly advantageously less than In this context, a "lens element" is to be understood as meaning, in particular, an element which is intended to focus at least substantially parallel light beams at a focal point and / or to parallelize and / or focus light beams emanating from a focal point , The lens elements are in particular made of glass, plastic or another transparent material, which in particular has a higher refractive index than air. In particular, the lens elements can be designed as a GRIN lens or as a convex lens, in particular as a biconvex and / or plankovexe lens. Likewise, however, other Lin- senarten and / or forms conceivable, in particular Fresnel lenses and / or liquid lenses and / or liquid crystal lenses. Preferably, all the lens elements of the lens array are of similar design. However, combinations of different lens types and / or shapes within the lens array are also conceivable. In particular, the term "provided" should be understood to mean specially programmed, designed and / or equipped.Assuming that an object is intended for a specific function should in particular mean that the object fulfills this specific function in at least one application and In this context, a "fiber holder" is to be understood as meaning in particular a unit comprising at least two fiber holding elements, which is intended to receive and / or mechanically fix a multiplicity of optical fibers in at least one plane and / or / or at least substantially parallel to each other. In particular, the fiber holder is intended to generate a defined horizontal distance between in each case two directly adjacent optical fibers and / or a defined vertical distance between in each case two directly adjacent fiber planes. A deviation from a horizontal and / or vertical nominal distance is in particular less than 5 μηι, advantageously less than 3 μηι and particularly advantageously less than 1 μηι. In this context, a "multiplicity of optical fibers" is to be understood as meaning, in particular, a number of at least eight optical fibers, advantageously at least twelve optical fibers, preferably at least 16 optical fibers and particularly preferably at least 32 optical fibers Fiber holder is provided to "relatively position" the optical fibers to the lens array is to be understood in particular that the fiber holder is provided to arrange the optical fibers in particular in an assembled state and / or align that a distance between the optical Axes of the optical fibers and a running direction of the optical axes of the optical fibers at least substantially corresponds to a distance and a direction of extension of the optical axes of the lens elements of the lens array. Preferably, the fiber holder is provided for arranging and / or aligning the optical fibers such that in each case an optical axis of one of the optical fibers is at least substantially congruent with in each case one optical axis of a lens element of the lens array. Under "at least substantially congruent" in this Connection be understood in particular that a deviation in each case an optical axis of one of the optical fibers of each one optical axis of a lens element in particular less than 5 μηι, preferably less than 3 μηι and more preferably less than 1 μηι.

In this context, a "manufacturing accuracy" is to be understood as meaning, in particular, a precision of a workpiece produced by machine-related, process-related, tool-related, workpiece-related and / or environmental factors Tool-related factors can be, for example, a tool geometry, a tool positioning and / or arrangement and / or tool wear Workpiece-related factors can be, for example, a geometry of a workpiece and / or a semifinished product and / or or environmental factors may be, for example, a temperature and / or a humidity the manufacturing accuracy indirectly and / or directly a workpiece quality, in particular with regard to at least one dimensional deviation, shape deviation, position deviation and / or roughness deviation. By the fact that a second fiber-holding element has a "higher manufacturing accuracy" compared to a first fiber-holding element should be understood in particular that the second fiber-holding element compared to the first fiber-holding element in particular by a factor of 10, advantageously by a factor of 50, preferably by a factor of 100 and more preferably a factor 200 smaller deviations from at least one target value, in particular deviations in shape, shape deviations, positional deviations and / or roughness deviations, in particular the first fiber-holding element and the second fiber-holding element are manufactured separately by means of different manufacturing processes and / or of different materials.

By such a configuration, an optical connector device can be provided, which has advantageous properties in terms of a particularly automated production and / or in terms of manufacturing costs. Especially For example, the first fiber-holding element can be produced in large numbers by means of an advantageously cost-effective and / or simple mass-production method, for example by means of an injection molding method, and / or from a cost-effective material. The second fiber-holding element, which has a higher manufacturing accuracy than the first fiber-holding element, can be produced, in particular, in an advantageously demand-oriented quantity in a different manufacturing process. Furthermore, an advantageously simple, in particular automated, introduction of optical fibers into fiber holding elements with a high production quality can be made possible. It is also proposed that the first fiber holding element is provided for a pre-positioning and the second fiber holding element for a fine positioning of the optical fibers. A "pre-positioning" is to be understood in particular as occurring during a production process prior to a fine positioning and / or spatially upstream in a finished product of a fine positioning, in particular coarse, arrangement, alignment and / or separation of the optical fibers.

A "fine positioning" is to be understood as meaning, in particular, an exact alignment of optical axes of the optical fibers to optical axes of lens elements of the lens array. "Separation" is to be understood to mean, in particular, introduction of a defined spatial distance between the optical fibers. The optical fibers are first prepositioned by means of the first fiber holding element and subsequently finely positioned by means of the second fiber holding element. By pre-positioning of the optical fibers, an advantageously simple and / or exact fine positioning of the optical fibers can take place. In particular, this can advantageously make a production process simple and, in particular, automated.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the second fiber holding element is provided to align the end regions of the optical fibers relative to the lens array. In particular, the second fiber holding element is provided to align an end region of each one optical fiber relative to a corresponding lens element of the lens array. In particular, the second fiber-holding element has a plurality of recesses which are provided to receive at least one end region of one of the optical fibers in each case. In particular, the second fiber holding member intended to at least partially and preferably completely surround the end regions of the optical fibers in the circumferential direction. As a result, an advantageously exact alignment of the optical axes of the optical fibers and / or an advantageously secure guidance of the optical fibers can take place in particular in one end region.

In one embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the first fiber holding element is configured at least in two parts. The first fiber-holding element comprises in particular at least one base element and at least one cover element. In particular, the base element has at least one recess corresponding to the cover element, which recess is provided to receive the cover element at least partially and preferably completely. In particular, the base element and the cover element in a mounted state are non-positively, positively and / or integrally connected to each other. The term "integrally connected" is intended to be understood in particular as being materially bonded, for example by a welding process and / or adhesive process, etc. In a mounted state, the base element and the cover element are in particular for pre-positioning and / or separation of the optical fibers and / The optical fibers are inserted into the recess of the base element, the cover element being inserted into the corresponding recess of the base element, the optical fibers being fixed in particular by a clamping force between the base element and the cover element can be carried out an advantageous pre-positioning, separation and / or in particular mechanical fixation of the optical fibers.

It is also proposed that the fiber holder and the lens array are made as separate components. The fiber holder and the lens array are in particular integrally connected to each other. In particular, the lens array is integrally connected to the first fiber-holding element and / or to the second fiber-holding element. In particular, the lens array is aligned mechanically and / or optically relative to the fiber holder. In particular, the lens array is aligned mechanically and / or optically relative to the second fiber-holding element. By manufacturing the fiber holder and the lens array as separate components, advantageously low production costs can be achieved. can be achieved and the components are produced with the respectively required accuracy and / or from a respective suitable material.

Preferably, an index matching material, in particular an index matching gel and / or an index matching adhesive, is arranged between the lens array and the fiber holder. The index matching material is particularly intended to reduce optical losses. In particular, the index matching material is disposed between the lens array and the second fiber holding member. In particular, the lens array is fixed to the fiber holder by means of the index matching material. In particular, the lens array is fixed to the second fiber-holding element by means of the index-matching material. As a result, optical losses, in particular with regard to an insertion loss, in particular by a reduction of Fresnel reflections, can be advantageously reduced. Furthermore, the lower reflection losses contribute to the fact that less light is reflected back in a transmission path, which advantageously improves a return loss of an optical transition.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the lens array has recesses arranged on one side, which are intended to receive the end regions of the optical fibers. The recesses are arranged in particular on a side opposite the lens elements of the lens array. In particular, the recesses are formed as Sackausnehmungen. In particular, the recesses are aligned in alignment with the optical axes of the lens elements of the lens array. In particular, the recesses are intended to align the optical fibers with the lens elements. As a result, an advantageously precise alignment of the fibers on the lens element of the lens array can take place. Furthermore, a number of components and an addition of tolerances can be advantageously reduced.

It is also proposed that the first fiber holding element and / or the second fiber holding element is at least substantially plate-shaped. An "essentially plate-shaped element" is to be understood in particular as meaning a spatial element which, when viewed in a plane, has a noncircular cross-sectional area in a cross-section perpendicular to the plane and has a material thickness that is in particular at least substantially constant perpendicular to the plane. the is less than 50%, preferably less than 25%, and more preferably less than 10% of a surface extension of the spatial element parallel to the plane, in particular a smallest surface extension of the element parallel to the plane. In particular, at least the second fiber-holding element is at least substantially plate-shaped. Due to the plate-shaped design, a material requirement for producing the fiber holding elements can advantageously be reduced to a minimum, whereby material costs can advantageously be reduced. Furthermore, the plate-like design allows insertion of recesses by means of advantageously simple and / or cost-effective machining method, in particular due to a favorable ratio between a diameter and a depth of the recesses to be produced.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the fiber holder, in particular the first fiber holding element and / or the second fiber holding element, at least partially conical recesses, which are provided to at least partially receive the optical fibers. In particular, the recesses are formed as Durchgangsausnehmun- gene. In particular, the second fiber support member at least partially conical recesses, which are intended to receive the end portions of the optical fibers. In particular, the optical fibers are passed completely through the recesses. Preferably, the optical fibers are first passed through recesses of the first fiber-holding element and subsequently through recesses of the second fiber-holding element. In particular, the recesses of the second fiber-holding element have a smaller diameter than the recesses of the first fiber-holding element. In particular, the optical fibers are guided completely through recesses of the second fiber-holding element and cut to length on an exit side, in particular by means of laser cleaving. Due to the conical configuration of the recesses and / or the decreasing diameter of the recesses, an advantageously simple, in particular automated, insertion of the optical fibers into the recesses can be achieved. In a further embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the fiber holder comprises at least a third fiber-holding element which has a higher manufacturing accuracy than the first fiber-holding element and a lower manufacturing accuracy than the second fiber-holding element. In particular, the third fiber holding element is plate-shaped. shaped. Preferably, the third fiber support member at least partially conical recesses, which are provided to at least partially receive the optical fibers. In particular, the recesses of the third fiber-holding element have a smaller diameter than the recesses of the first fiber-holding element. The recesses of the second fiber-holding element have, in particular, a smaller diameter than the recesses of the third fiber-holding element. As a result, alignment of the optical fibers can be further simplified. As a result of the decreasing diameter of the recesses from one fiber-holding element to the next fiber-holding element, the introduction of the optical fibers, in particular along the optical axis, can advantageously be simplified and / or advantageously automated.

Further, it is proposed that the fiber holding members are arranged along a longitudinal direction of extension of the optical fibers facing the end portions of the optical fibers with increasing manufacturing accuracy. The optical fibers are guided in particular firstly through recesses of the first fiber holding element, subsequently through recesses of the third fiber holding element and finally through recesses of the second fiber holding element. In particular, the recesses of the third fiber-holding element have a smaller diameter than the recesses of the first fiber-holding element. The recesses of the second fiber-holding element have, in particular, a smaller diameter than the recesses of the third fiber-holding element. By arranging the fiber holding elements with increasing manufacturing accuracy and decreasing diameter of the recesses, insertion of the optical fibers can advantageously be easily automated.

In addition, it is proposed that the first fiber holding element has at least one separating means, in particular a toothing, which is intended to separate the optical fibers. By the fact that the separating means is intended to "separate" the optical fibers, it should be understood, in particular, that the separating means is intended to introduce a defined spatial distance between the optical fibers, in particular the separating means is provided for, the optical fibers spaced from each other and at least substantially parallel to each other. in particular a rough pre-positioning, the optical fibers are achieved. Furthermore, it can advantageously be achieved that, in particular during insertion of the optical fibers, the corresponding recesses of the fiber-holding element following in the optical direction are hit with sufficient accuracy.

It is also proposed that the second fiber-holding element is at least substantially formed by a ceramic material, a glass, silicon, a metal and / or a plastic. Preferably, the second fiber holding element is at least substantially formed of glass and / or silicon. Material combinations are in particular to be selected such that different coefficients of thermal expansion of an alignment of optical fibers to corresponding lens elements, in particular in a temperature range from -20 ° C to 80 ° C, by not more than 5 μηι, preferably by not more than 3 μηι and particularly preferred not to worsen more than μηι. As a result, an advantageously high production quality of the second fiber holding element and thus an advantageously exact alignment of the optical fibers can be achieved.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the first fiber-holding element has a receptacle for the second fiber-holding element. As a result, an advantageous alignment of the first fiber holding element to the second fiber holding element can be achieved. Preferably, the second fiber-holding element is made of a potting compound. In this context, a "potting compound" is to be understood as meaning, in particular, a mass to be processed in a liquid state, which is intended to be cured after processing and / or cured by itself

Cast resin, an adhesive, in particular a two-component adhesive, and / or a solder, for example a brazing or a soft solder, be formed. The optical fibers are arranged in the recess of the first fiber holding member. In particular, the optical fibers are arranged in the recess of the first fiber holding element such that there is no direct contact between the optical fiber holders and the first fiber holding element. The fibers are aligned within the first fiber support member by means of alignment units located outside the first fiber support member. In one embodiment of the process, the optimal see fibers acted by means of the alignment unit with an acting along a longitudinal extension direction of the optical fibers tensile force. The casting compound is filled into the recess of the first fiber retaining element. After curing, the casting compound forms the second fiber retaining element. As a result, an advantageous cost-effective design of the first and the second fiber retaining element can be achieved. Furthermore, an advantageous permanent fixation and alignment of the optical fibers can be achieved.

In addition, a prefabricated optical cable, in particular a patch cable, with at least one optical connector device according to the invention is proposed.

Preferably, in combination with at least one previously described feature, but in particular also independent of previously described features, it is proposed that the optical fibers have at least substantially mushroom-shaped thickened end sections, in particular due to a shortening by means of laser clearing, which are provided at end regions of the optical To center each fiber in at least one recess. In particular, the end sections, which are at least substantially mushroom-shaped, are provided to center the end regions of the optical fibers in at least one recess of the second fiber-holding element and / or to absorb them without play. The at least one recess has, in particular, at least one

Essentially circular outlet opening. The optical fibers are in particular passed completely through a respective recess. On an exit side, the optical fibers are cut to length, in particular by means of laser cleaving. The optical fibers are pushed back or pulled against exit directions in exit openings of the recesses. The end portions of the optical fibers are centered in the recesses by the mushroom-shaped thickened end portions. By centering the end regions of the optical fibers in the recesses, an advantageously accurate and backlash-free alignment of the optical fibers can be achieved. In addition, a method is proposed for producing an optical connector device having at least one lens array and at least one fiber holder, which comprises at least a first fiber holding element and at least one second fiber holding element, which has a higher manufacturing accuracy than the first Faserhalteele- ment, wherein end portions of a plurality of optical fibers are positioned relative to the lens array by means of the fiber holder. In this way, an advantageously simple and / or cost-effective production can be achieved, which is advantageously easy to automate or at least partially automated.

drawing

Further advantages emerge from the following description of the drawing. In the drawings, three embodiments of the invention are shown. The description and claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will expediently also consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations. Show it:

1 shows a configured optical cable with an optical connector device comprising a lens array and a fiber holder for positioning a plurality of optical fibers relative to the lens array,

FIG. 2 shows a first fiber-holding element of the fiber holder from FIG. 1 in an unassembled state, FIG.

3 a basic element of the first fiber holding element with inserted optical fibers,

4 shows the first fiber holding element in an assembled state,

5 shows the fiber holder with the first fiber holding element and a second fiber holding element,

6 the base element of the first fiber holding element, the second fiber holding element and lens array arranged on the second fiber holding element, FIG.

7 is a partial sectional view of the second fiber holding member,

Fig. 8 shows a configured optical cable with an alternative optical connector device, which a lens array and a fiber holder for Positioning a plurality of optical fibers relative to the lens array,

9 shows a first method step for producing the optical connector device from FIG. 8, FIG.

10 shows a second method step for producing the optical connector device from FIG. 8, FIG.

11 shows a third method step for producing the optical connector device from FIG. 8, FIG.

12 shows a fourth method step for producing the optical connector device from FIG. 8,

FIG. 13 shows a configured optical cable with another alternative optical connector device including a lens array and a fiber holder with three fiber holding members for positioning a plurality of optical fibers relative to the lens array and FIG

Fig. 14, the lens array of Figure 13 in a sectional view.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS FIG. 1 shows a configured optical cable 34a, in particular an optical patch cable. The optical cable 34a included an optical connector device 10a and a plurality of optical fibers 18a. The optical connector device 10a has a lens array 12a. The lens array 12a includes a plurality of optical lens elements 38a. A number of lens elements 38a of the lens array 12a correspond to a number of optical fibers 18a. Alternatively, a number of lens elements may differ from a number of optical fibers, and in particular may be larger than a number of optical fibers. Further, the optical connector device 10a has a fiber holder 14a. The fiber holder 14a is provided to position end portions 16a (not visible in Figure 1) of the optical fibers 18a relative to the lens array 12a. The fiber holder 14a and the lens array 12a are separate

Manufactured components. Between the lens array 12a and the fiber holder 14a is disposed an index matching material, in particular an index matching gel, an index matching adhesive and / or an index matching film. The fiber holder 14a has a first fiber holding member 20a and a second fiber holding member 22a. The second fiber holding member 22a has higher manufacturing accuracy than the first fiber holding member 20a. The first fiber holding member 20a is provided for pre-positioning, and the second fiber holding member 22a is provided for fine positioning of the optical fibers 18a. The first fiber holding element 20a is designed in two parts. The first fiber-holding element 20a comprises a base element 40a and a cover element 42a. The second fiber holding member 22a is plate-shaped. The second fiber-holding element 22a is formed by a ceramic material, a glass, silicon, a metal and / or a plastic. Preferably, the second fiber-holding element 22a is formed by a glass and / or silicon.

FIG. 2 shows the base element 40a and the cover element 42a of the first fiber-holding element 20a in an unassembled state. The base element 40a has a recess 44a corresponding to the cover element 42a, which is intended to receive the cover element 42a. The first fiber holding member 20a has

Separating means 46a, which is intended to separate the optical fibers 18a. The separating means 46a is designed as a toothing 48a arranged on the cover element 42a. Alternatively or additionally, a separating means may also be arranged on a base element of a first fiber-holding element.

FIGS. 3 to 7 show process steps for producing the optical connector device 10a. The optical fibers 18a are inserted as shown in Fig. 3 and the base member 40a of the first fiber holding member 20a. The end portions 16a of the optical fibers 18a protrude beyond the base member 40a. The lid member 42a is inserted into the recess 44a of the base member 40a (see Fig. 4). The optical fibers 18a are mechanically fixed between the lid member 42a and the base member 40a. The optical fibers 18a are separated from each other by the separating means 46a. Alternatively, only a separation of the optical fibers can take place, wherein a mechanical fixation of the optical fibers is dispensed with. In the assembled state of the first fiber holding member 20a shown in Fig. 4, the optical fiber 18a is prepositioned by the first fiber holding member 20a. Spatial areas in which the optical fibers are located after pre-positioning are in particular smaller than a spatial extent the recesses of the second element on an entrance side, wherein the respective areas are at least substantially in alignment.

The second fiber retaining element 22a is pushed onto the end regions 16a of the prepositioned optical fibers 18a (see FIG. A guide of the second fiber-holding element 22a during the pushing-on takes place via two guide elements 50a previously introduced into corresponding receptacles 52a in the basic element 40a of the first fiber-holding element 20a. Alternatively, guide elements can also be formed in one piece with a first fiber holding element, in particular with a base element of a first fiber holding element. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that guide elements are arranged in a second fiber holding element and / or are formed integrally with a second fiber holding element. The second fiber support member 22a has conical recesses 26a which are provided to receive the optical fibers 18a, in particular the end portions 16a of the optical fibers 18a. The recesses 26a are conical at least in a partial region, in particular in an insertion region. Due to the conical shape of the recesses 26a, the pushing on of the second fiber holding element 22a can advantageously be effected simply. The second fiber support member 22a is provided to align the end portions 16a of the optical fibers 18a relative to the lens array 12a. After pushing on the second fiber holding member 22a, the optical fibers 18a are cut to length by laser cleaving. As a result of the laser etching, mushroom-shaped end portions 36a (see Figure 7) form on the optical fibers 18a. Alternatively, optical fibers may also be cut to length by another method, such as mechanical. As shown in Fig. 6, the lens array 12a is placed on the second fiber holding member 22a. Previously, an index matching material, in particular an index matching adhesive, is applied to the lens array 12a and / or to the second fiber retaining element 22a. Before placing the lens array 12a on the second fiber holding member 22a, the lid member 42a is removed from the base member 40a of the first fiber holding member 20a, thereby canceling the mechanical fixation of the optical fibers 18a. If there is no mechanical fixation of the optical fibers 18a between the base element 40a and the cover element 42a, the removal of the cover element 42a may be omitted. By placing the lens array 12a on the second fiber shark te element 22a, the optical fibers 18a are pushed back into the conical recesses 26a of the second fiber holding member 22a. Alternatively, the optical fibers 18a may be retracted into the conical recesses 26a of the second fiber holding member 22a prior to placement of the lens array 12a. The mushroom-shaped end portions 36a of the optical fibers 18a are provided to center the end portions 16a of the optical fibers 18a in the tapered recesses 26a and / or to minimize play of the end portions 16a of the optical fibers 18a in the tapered recesses 26a (see FIG 7). The lid member 42a is again inserted into the base member 40a of the first fiber holding member 20a, whereby the mechanical fixation of the optical fibers 18a is restored. Finally, the lens array 12a is positioned on the second fiber holding member 22a. The positioning of the lens array 12a can be done, for example, actively optically and / or by means of optical alignment marks. Alternatively or additionally, a positioning of a lens array can take place via the guide elements 50a.

FIGS. 8 to 14 show two further embodiments of the invention. The following descriptions and the drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the exemplary embodiments, wherein, with regard to identically named components, in particular with regard to components having the same reference numbers, in principle also to the drawings and / or the description of the other embodiments, in particular FIGS to 7, can be referenced. To distinguish the embodiments of the letter a is the reference numerals of the embodiment in Figures 1 to 7 adjusted. In the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 8 and 14, the letter a is replaced by the letters b and c.

Figure 8 shows a configured optical cable 34b having an alternative optical connector device 10b and a plurality of optical fibers 18b. The optical connector device 10b has a lens array 12b. The lens array 12b includes a plurality of optical lens elements 38b. A number of lens elements 38b of the lens array 12b correspond to a number of optical fibers 18b. Alternatively, a number of lens elements may differ from a number of optical fibers, and in particular may be larger than a number of optical fibers. Further, the optical connector device 10b has a fiber holder 14b. The fiber holder 14b is provided to position end portions 16b of the optical fibers 18b relative to the lens array 12b. The fiber holder 14b and the lens array 12b are manufactured as separate components. An index matching material, in particular an index matching gel and / or an index matching adhesive, is arranged between the lens array 12b and the fiber holder 14b. The fiber holder 14b has a first fiber holding element 20b and a second fiber holding element 22b. The second fiber holding member 22b has a higher manufacturing accuracy than the first fiber holding member 20b. The first fiber holding member 20b is provided for pre-positioning and the second fiber holding member 22b for fine positioning of the optical fibers 18b. The first fiber holding element 20b has a receptacle 32b for the second fiber holding element 22b. The second fiber holding element 22b is made of a potting compound.

FIGS. 9 to 12 show process steps for producing the optical connector device 10b. As shown in Figure 9, a cladding is removed from the optical fibers 18b. The optical fibers 18b are inserted and fixed in two alignment units 54b each having a high manufacturing accuracy. The alignment units 54b are aligned, in particular with high precision, relative to one another. The alignment units 54b each have a plurality of mutually parallel V-grooves, which are provided to receive the optical fibers 18b. In a region 56b between the alignment units 54b, the optical fibers 18b are guided freely. By means of the alignment units 54b, the optical fibers 18b are subjected to a tensile force 58b. The first fiber-holding element 20b is arranged and / or aligned in the region 56b between the alignment units 54b so that the optical fibers 18b pass through the receptacle 32b.

The receptacle 32b is filled in a further process step with a potting compound, such as a UV-curing adhesive, and cured the potting compound. After curing, the potting compound forms the second fiber-holding element 22b. After curing of the potting compound, the alignment units 54b arranged on a side of the fiber holder 14b facing away from a cable 60b are removed and the optical fibers 18b are cut flush with the fiber holder 14b, for example by means of laser cleaving. Alternatively, a piece of the fiber holder 14b may be additionally separated. As shown in FIG. 12, the lens array 12b is applied in a further method step the fiber holder 14b positioned. The positioning of the lens array 12b can be done, for example, actively optically and / or by means of optical alignment marks. Alternatively or additionally, a positioning of a lens array can take place via guide elements (not illustrated here). A fixing of the lens array 12b is preferably carried out by means of a UV-curing adhesive. After fixing the lens array 12b, the second alignment unit 54b is removed.

Figure 13 shows an exploded view of a configured optical cable 34c with another alternative optical connector device 10c and a plurality of optical fibers 18c. The optical connector device 10c has a lens array 12c. The lens array 12c includes a plurality of optical lens elements 38c. A number of lens elements 38c of the lens array 12c correspond to a number of optical fibers 18c. Alternatively, a number of lens elements may differ from a number of optical fibers, and in particular may be larger than a number of optical fibers. FIG. 14 shows a sectional view of the lens array 12c. The lens array 12c has unidirectional recesses 24c which are adapted to receive end portions 16c of the optical fibers 18c.

Further, the optical connector device 10c has a fiber holder 14c. The fiber holder 14c is provided to position the end portions 16c of the optical fibers 18c relative to the lens array 12c. The fiber holder 14c and the lens array 12c are made as separate components. The fiber holder 14c has a first fiber holding member 20c and a second fiber holding member 22c. The second fiber holding member 22c has higher manufacturing accuracy than the first fiber holding member 20c. The first fiber holding member 20c is provided for pre-positioning, and the second fiber holding member 22c is provided for fine positioning of the optical fibers 18c. Further, the fiber holder 14c has a third fiber holding member 28c which has a higher manufacturing accuracy than the first fiber holding member 20c and a lower manufacturing accuracy than the second fiber holding member 22c. Alternatively, a fiber holder can also have more or fewer fiber holding elements. The fiber holding members 20c, 22c, 28c are arranged along a longitudinal direction 30c of the optical fibers 18c facing the end portions 16c of the optical fibers 18c with increasing manufacturing accuracy. The fiber holding elements 20c, 22c, 28c are plate-shaped. The fiber retaining elements 20c, 22c, 28c each have conical recesses 26c which are provided to at least partially receive the optical fibers 18c. A mechanical alignment of the fiber holding elements 20c, 22c, 28c and of the lens arrays 12c takes place via guide elements 50c. The diameters of the recesses 26c, starting from the first fiber holding element 20c, decrease toward the second fiber holding element 22c via the third fiber holding element 28c.

The configured optical cable 34c further includes a housing 62c that includes a housing top shell 64c and a housing bottom shell 66c. The housing 62c has seats 68c which are provided to receive the lens array 12c, the fiber holding members 20c, 22c, 28c and the guide members 50c. Gaps between the fiber holding members 20c, 22c, 28c are filled with an adhesive to form a composite. Optionally, an index matching gel or index matching adhesive may be incorporated between the end portions 16c of the optical fibers 18c and the lens array 12c.

Claims

claims

1 . An optical connector device having at least one lens array (12a; 12b; 12c) and at least one fiber holder (14a; 14b; 14c) provided end portions (16a; 16b; 16c) of a plurality of optical fibers (18a; 18b; 18c relative to the lens array (12a; 12b; 12c) and having at least one first fiber retaining element (20a; 20b; 20c), characterized in that the fiber holder (14a; 14b; 14c) comprises at least one second fiber retaining element (22a: 22b 22c) having a higher manufacturing accuracy than the first fiber holding member (20a; 20b; 20c).

The optical connector device according to claim 1, characterized in that said first fiber holding member (20a; 20b; 20c) for prepositioning and said second fiber holding member (22a: 22b; 22c) for fine positioning of said optical fibers (18a; 18b; 18c) is.

The optical connector device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second fiber holding member (22a: 22b; 22c) is provided to define the end portions (16a; 16b; 16c) of the optical fibers (18a; 18b; 18c) relative to the lens array (12a, 12b, 12c).

4. Optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first fiber holding element (20a) is configured at least in two parts.

Optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fiber holder (14a; 14b: 14c) and the lens array (12a; 12b; 12c) are made as separate components.

Optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an index matching material is arranged between the lens array (12a; 12b; 12c) and the fiber holder (14a; 14b; 14c).

Optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lens array (12c) has recesses (24c) arranged on one side, which are intended to receive the end regions (16c) of the optical fibers (18c).

8. Optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first fiber-holding element (20a; 20c) and / or the second fiber-holding element (22a; 22c) is at least substantially plate-shaped.

Optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fiber holder (14a; 14c) has at least partially conical recesses (26a; 26c) which are intended to at least partially receive the optical fibers (18a; 18c).

Optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fiber holder (14c) comprises at least a third fiber holding element (28c) having a higher manufacturing accuracy than the first fiber holding element (20c) and a lower manufacturing accuracy than the second fiber holding element (22c) having.

1 1. Optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fiber holding elements (20c, 22c, 28c) along a to the end regions (16c) of the optical fibers (18c) facing the longitudinal extension direction (30c) of the optical fibers (18c) with increasing Manufacturing accuracy are arranged.

12. An optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first fiber-holding element (20a) has at least one separating means (46a) which is provided to separate the optical fibers (18a).

13. Optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second fiber holding element (22a, 22c) is formed at least substantially of a ceramic material and / or of a glass and / or silicon and / or metal and / or plastic.

14. Optical connector device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first fiber-holding element (20b) has a receptacle (32b) for the second fiber-holding element (22b).

15. Optical connector device according to claim 12, characterized in that the second fiber holding element (22b) is made of a potting compound.

16. A prefabricated optical cable having at least one optical connector device (10a, 10b, 10c) according to one of the preceding claims.

17. A prefabricated optical cable according to claim 16, characterized by the optical fibers (18a) having at least substantially mushroom-shaped thickened end portions (36a), which are provided, end portions (16a) of the optical fibers (18a) respectively in at least one recess (26a) to center.

18. A method for producing an optical connector device (1a, 10b, 10c), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 15, with at least one lens array (12a, 12b, 12c) and with at least one fiber holder (14a, 14b, 14c), which comprises at least one first fiber-holding element (20a; 20b; 20c) and at least one second fiber-holding element (22a; 22b; 22c) having a higher manufacturing accuracy than the first fiber-holding element (20a; 20b; 20c), end regions (16a; 16b; 16c) of a plurality of optical fibers (18a; 18b; 18c) are positioned relative to the lens array (12a; 12b; 12c) by means of the fiber holder (14a; 14b; 14c).