JP2003115191A - Optical memory element - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an optical memory of which an incident end plane of reproduction light and a light-emitting surface of scattered light of an optical memory element can be protected so that dirt and dust are not attached. SOLUTION: This element comprises core layers and clad layers laminated on both surfaces of the core layers, has one or a plurality of light guide members having a uneven part for information at least one side of boundary of the core layer and the clad layer, an incident end plane for guiding reproduction light to the core layer is formed, the reproduction light made incident from the incident end plane is guided to the core layer and scattered by the uneven part for information, scattered light is emitted to the outside from the surface, and reproduction image is obtained. At least, the element is provided with an antistatic layer at the incident end plane and/or a light-emitting surface of the scattered light of the reproduction light.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an optical memory device, and more particularly to an optical memory device constructed by using an optical waveguide device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, a technique has been proposed in which light is introduced into a plane type (card type) optical waveguide in which a pattern is engraved so as to generate predetermined scattered light, and an image is formed outside the optical waveguide surface. (IEEE Photon.Technol.Lett., Vol.9, p
p.958-960, JULY1997, etc.). That is, for example, as schematically shown in FIG. 5, a core (layer) 101 whose refractive index and film thickness are adjusted so as to function as an optical waveguide, and both sides (both sides) of the core layer 101 sandwiched therebetween. In the card type slab type optical waveguide device 100 including the (first and second) clads (layers) 102 provided in the above, fine irregularities are present at the interface between the core layer 101 and the clad layer 102. In this case, when the light (laser light) is introduced into the core layer (optical waveguide) 101 through the lens 103, a part of the introduced light is scattered by the uneven portion, and the scattered light is clad layer 10.
It goes out through 2

Therefore, the scattering intensity and phase of light such that a specific image is formed at a predetermined distance from the optical waveguide surface (optical waveguide 101) are calculated, and a fine concavo-convex pattern corresponding to the calculation is calculated in advance in the core layer 101. By engraving it in, it is possible to form a desired image on the outside of the optical waveguide surface. That is, the core layer 101 functions as an information recording layer.

Then, for example, the CCD image receiver 104 in which scattered light coming out of the optical waveguide surface is installed at the above-mentioned predetermined distance
The light is received by the light source, and the formed image is converted into a two-dimensional digital pattern [for example, a binary pattern of light and dark, or a multi-valued pattern based on lightness (gray scale)] and converted into a digital signal. A processing device (not shown) can perform desired image processing on the formed image.

Further, for example, as schematically shown in FIG.
When the above-mentioned clad layer 102 and core layer 101 are repeatedly laminated to laminate a plurality of optical waveguides (recording layers) 101, the light scattered by one optical waveguide 101 will cross another optical waveguide 101. However, since the difference in refractive index between the core layer 101 and the clad layer 102 is usually extremely small, the scattered light is hardly re-scattered by the unevenness formed in another optical waveguide 101, and the formed image is disturbed. There is no. Therefore, many images and patterns can be formed in proportion to the number of stacked layers.

That is, the optical waveguide device 100 can be used as an optical memory element (recording medium such as ROM) having a capacity proportional to the number of laminated layers. It is said that this optical memory device can theoretically have a capacity of about 1 gigabyte per layer, and can be stacked up to about 100 layers. It is considered promising to be used as a large-capacity ROM capable of sufficiently recording.

The fine concave-convex pattern on the core layer 101 of the optical waveguide device 100 is formed, for example, by the following method. That is, first, as schematically shown in FIG. 7 (A), a photoresist is applied on a flat glass plate or the like to be the (first) clad layer 102, and exposure to light or an electron beam is performed. By development, pits (concavo-convex pattern) corresponding to an image to be formed are formed on the glass (clad layer 102).

Thereafter, the core layer 10 is formed on the uneven pattern.
1 is formed. As a result, the core layer 101 on which the concavo-convex pattern is formed is formed, and the second cladding layer 102 is further formed on the core layer 101, whereby an optical waveguide device (optical memory element) for one layer is formed. . Then, similarly to the above, an uneven pattern is formed on the cladding layer 102 by exposure and development, and the core layer 101 is formed thereon.
7B is repeated to form an optical memory device (hereinafter, referred to as a multi-layered optical memory device) as schematically shown in FIG.
A “multilayer optical memory” may be produced) 100a.

However, in the method using such exposure and development, it takes a very long time and cost to manufacture the optical memory element 100 for one layer, so that a large capacity multilayer optical memory 100a can be manufactured. , Takes a huge amount of time and cost. Therefore, by forming the core layer and the clad layer from resin, the above-mentioned concavo-convex pattern can be easily formed, and an optical memory device capable of holding a large amount of information in a limited volume is easy and inexpensive. Has been proposed (Japanese Patent Application No. 11-1315).
No. 12, Japanese Patent Application No. 11-131513).

[0010]

By the way, in practical use of an optical memory element having an incident end face formed on an optical waveguide member as an optical memory such as a card, the optical memory element is prevented from being scratched or soiled. Need to be protected. In this case, for example, if the incident end face is scratched or soiled, incident light for reproducing information of the optical memory element cannot be introduced or sufficient incident light cannot be introduced, which is fatal to the optical memory element. In particular, it is important to protect the incident end face because it can cause various defects.

Further, the surface (emission surface) from which the scattered light of the optical memory element is output is not as close as the incident end surface, but if it is dirty or scratched, the reproduced image will be deteriorated, so it is also preferable to protect it. . In addition, since the emitting surface is on the plane of the element, the user is likely to touch it with his / her hand or finger when handling the element. Further, dust or the like is likely to adhere to the emission surface during storage of the optical memory element.

Therefore, it is conceivable to protect the incident end face of the reproduction light of the optical memory element and the emission face of the scattered light with a protective member so as not to be scratched. There is a method of protecting by attaching a resin film or applying a resin, and a method of storing the element in a cartridge having a transparent window or an opening. However, also in this case, if the resin film, the resin layer, the transparent window of the cartridge, or the like is contaminated with dust or dirt, the same problem occurs. Therefore, it has been desired to take measures to prevent dirt and dust from adhering to the entrance end surface and the exit surface regardless of whether or not they are covered with a protective member.

The present invention was devised in view of the above problems, and provides an optical memory capable of protecting the incident end face of the reproduction light of the optical memory device and the emission face of the scattered light from being contaminated with dirt and dust. The purpose is to do.

[0014]

An optical memory device according to the present invention according to claim 1 comprises a core layer and a cladding layer laminated on both surfaces of the core layer, and an interface between the core layer and the cladding layer. At least one of which has one or a plurality of optical waveguide members having an uneven portion for information, an incident end face for guiding reproduction light to the core layer is formed, and reproduction light incident from the incident end face is formed. An optical memory device for obtaining a reproduced image by guiding the light to the core layer and scattering by the information concavo-convex portion and emitting scattered light from the surface to the outside, and at least the incident end face of the reproduced light and / or the scattered light. It is characterized in that the emission surface is provided with an antistatic layer.

Preferably, the antistatic layer is a layer containing an antistatic agent (claim 2). Alternatively, preferably, the antistatic layer is a metal layer (claim 3). Further, it is preferable that a protective member is provided on the incident end surface of the reproduction light and / or the outgoing surface of the scattered light, and an antistatic layer is provided on the surface of the protective member (claim 4). Particularly preferably, the protective member is a cartridge that houses the optical memory device (claim 5).

The core layer and / or the cladding layer are preferably made of resin (claim 6). An optical memory element according to the present invention according to claim 7 is composed of a core layer and a cladding layer laminated on both surfaces of the core layer, and an information uneven portion is provided on at least one of the interfaces between the core layer and the cladding layer. One or a plurality of optical waveguide members are provided, and an incident end face for guiding reproducing light to the core layer is formed, and reproducing light incident from the incident end face is guided to the core layer for the information. An optical memory device which obtains a reproduced image by scattering scattered light from the uneven surface and emitting scattered light from the surface thereof, wherein an antibacterial layer is provided at least on the reproducing light incident end surface and / or scattered light emitting surface. It is characterized by that.

Preferably, the antibacterial layer is a layer containing an antibacterial agent (claim 8). Further, it is preferable that a protective member is provided on the incident end face of the reproduction light and / or the outgoing face of the scattered light and an antibacterial layer is provided on the surface of the protective member (claim 9). Particularly preferably, the protective member is a cartridge that houses the optical memory element (claim 10). The core layer and / or the cladding layer are preferably made of resin (claim 11).

An optical memory device according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention comprises a core layer and a clad layer laminated on both sides of the core layer, and at least one of the interfaces between the core layer and the clad layer is used for information. 1 optical waveguide member having an uneven portion
An incident end face for guiding the reproduction light to the core layer is formed, and the reproduction light incident from the incidence end face is guided to the core layer and scattered by the information concavo-convex portion, An optical memory element for emitting scattered light from its surface to the outside to obtain a reproduced image, characterized in that a water-repellent layer is provided at least on the incident end surface of the reproduced light and / or the scattered light emitting surface.

Preferably, the water repellent layer is a layer containing a water repellent agent (claim 13). Further, it is preferable that a protective member is provided on the incident end face of the reproduction light and / or the outgoing face of the scattered light, and a water repellent layer is provided on the protective member surface (claim 1).
4). Particularly preferably, the protection member is a cartridge that houses the optical memory element (claim 15). Core layer and /
Alternatively, the clad layer is preferably made of resin (claim 1
6).

[0020]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION The present invention will be described in more detail below. According to the present invention, by providing an antistatic layer at least on the incident end face of reproduction light and / or the emission face of scattered light of an optical memory device (multilayer optical memory, information recording medium), it is possible to prevent dust during storage and transportation. Adhesion can be prevented.

Since dust is unlikely to adhere to the incident end surface and the exit surface, there is an advantage that a reproduced image with high signal quality can be obtained during reproduction. Further, since dust is unlikely to adhere, there is an advantage that the user can easily handle the optical memory element. The antistatic layer can be a layer containing an antistatic agent. For example, the antistatic agent itself or an antistatic agent solution may be applied to the surface of the optical memory element and dried if necessary to form the antistatic layer. A general coating method can be used, and examples thereof include a dipping method and a spin coating method. Alternatively, a resin layer containing an antistatic agent may be formed on the surface of the optical memory element. Furthermore, the cladding layer on the surface of the optical memory element may be made of a material containing an antistatic agent.

In addition, metals such as aluminum, copper and gold,
It is also possible to prevent electrification by providing a metal layer made of an alloy. A general method can be used for forming the metal layer, and examples thereof include a sputtering method and a vapor deposition method. The region where the antistatic layer is provided may be at least the incident end face of the reproduction light or the emission face of the scattered light, but it may be provided on both sides or on the entire surface of the element.

Further, when a protective member is provided on the incident end surface of the reproduction light and / or the outgoing surface of the scattered light and the antistatic layer is provided on the surface of the protective member, scratches can be prevented and dust particles can be prevented. Adhesion can be suppressed, which is more preferable. For example, the optical memory element may be housed in a cartridge and the surface of the cartridge may be coated with an antistatic agent solution,
The cartridge itself may be made of a material containing an antistatic agent.

Further, in the present invention, similarly, by providing an antibacterial layer at least on the incident end face of the reproduction light and / or the emission face of the scattered light of the optical memory element (multilayer optical memory, information recording medium), the incident end face or the emission end face is provided. It is possible to prevent mold and fungus from adhering to the surface and proliferating. Then, since molds and bacteria adhere to the incident end surface and the exit surface and are unlikely to grow, there is an advantage that a reproduced image with high signal quality can be obtained during reproduction. In addition, since molds and bacteria are hard to attach and proliferate, there is an advantage that the user can easily handle the optical memory element.

The antibacterial layer can be a layer containing an antibacterial agent. As the antibacterial agent, for example, a fungicide can be used. For example, the antibacterial agent itself or the antibacterial agent solution may be applied to the surface of the optical memory element and dried if necessary to form the antibacterial layer. A general coating method can be used, and examples thereof include a dipping method and a spin coating method. Alternatively, a resin layer containing an antibacterial agent may be formed on the surface of the optical memory element. Furthermore, the clad layer on the surface of the optical memory element may be made of a material containing an antibacterial agent.

The region in which the antibacterial layer is provided may be at least the reproducing light incident end face or the scattered light emitting face, but may be provided on both sides or on the entire element surface. Further, if a protective member is provided on the incident end surface of the reproduction light and / or the outgoing surface of the scattered light, and the antibacterial layer is provided on the surface of the protective member, scratches can be prevented and the adhesion of mold or bacteria, It is more preferable because it can suppress proliferation. For example, the optical memory element may be housed in a cartridge and the antibacterial agent solution may be applied to the surface of the cartridge, or the cartridge itself may be made of a material containing an antibacterial agent.

Further, in the present invention, similarly, by providing a water-repellent layer on at least the reproducing light incident end face and / or the scattered light emitting face of the optical memory device (multilayer optical memory, information recording medium), the incident end face and the emitting face are emitted. By reducing the wettability of the surface, it is possible to make it difficult for dirt to adhere. Further, since dirt is unlikely to adhere to the incident end surface and the exit surface, there is an advantage that a reproduced image with high signal quality can be obtained during reproduction. Further, since dirt is unlikely to adhere, there is an advantage that the user can easily handle the optical memory element.

The water-repellent layer can be a layer containing a water-repellent agent. For example, the water repellent agent itself or a water repellent agent solution may be applied to the surface of the optical memory element and dried as necessary to form the water repellent layer. A general coating method can be used, and examples thereof include a dipping method and a spin coating method. Alternatively, a resin layer containing a water repellent agent may be formed on the surface of the optical memory element. Further, the cladding layer on the surface of the optical memory element may be made of a material containing a water repellent.

Alternatively, the water repellent layer may be formed by subjecting the surface of the optical memory element to a water repellent treatment. The region where the water-repellent layer is provided may be at least the reproduction light incident end face or the scattered light emission face, but may be provided on both sides or on the entire element surface. Further, when a protective member is provided on the incident end face of the reproduction light and / or the outgoing face of the scattered light and the water repellent layer is provided on the protective member surface, scratches can be prevented and stains are less likely to adhere. It is possible,
More preferable. For example, the optical memory element may be housed in a cartridge and a water repellent solution may be applied to the surface of the cartridge, or the cartridge itself may be made of a material containing a water repellent.

Which of the above layers is to be selected may be selected according to the constitution and purpose of the optical memory device, etc.
Also, they may be used in combination as required. For example, if a layer containing both an antistatic agent and an antibacterial agent is provided, the adhesion of dust can be prevented and the occurrence of mold and the like can be suppressed. Hereinafter, an optical memory device (multilayer optical memory, information recording medium, optical waveguide member, laminated body) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

First, the structure of the optical memory device according to the present embodiment and the manufacturing method thereof will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 4, the optical memory element according to the present embodiment is provided with a laminated body in which a plurality of optical waveguide members 323 each including a resin clad layer 3, a resin core layer 2, and a resin clad layer 3 are laminated. Composed. The resin film 4 is also attached here.

Here, the optical waveguide member 323 comprises a resin core layer 2 and a resin clad layer 3 laminated on both sides of the resin core layer 2, and the resin core layer 2 and the resin clad layer 3 are laminated. An uneven portion (information uneven portion) 5 is provided on at least one of the interfaces with the layer 3. In addition, the information uneven portion 5 has strength,
It is configured to include information about phases, angles, and the like. The information concavo-convex portion 5 may include, for example, intensity information and phase information, may include intensity information and angle information, or may include only intensity information. Further, the reproduced image may be any image as long as it is a light and shade of light formed by the scattered light from such uneven portions.

Hereinafter, a method of manufacturing the laminated body constituting the optical memory device 10 will be described. First, Figure 3
Image (information) to be formed on the surface as shown in (A)
A core material (liquid core resin) 2 ′ is applied to a stamper 1 having a desired uneven pattern (uneven shape; pit) according to the above so as to have a predetermined film thickness. In this embodiment, the core material 2'is made of an ultraviolet curable resin agent which is cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays (UV light). After being applied to the stamper 1 in this way, it is irradiated with ultraviolet rays. Then, the resin core layer 2'is formed by completely curing it.

Next, after the core material 2'is completely cured in this way, as shown in FIG. 3 (B), an ultraviolet curable resin agent having a smaller refractive index than the core layer 2'is formed thereon. A clad material (liquid clad resin) 3a 'is applied and cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays to form a resin clad layer 3a' having a smaller refractive index than the core layer 2 '. After that, FIG.
As shown in (C), the same clad material 3a 'as the clad material 3a' is applied onto the clad layer 3a ', and a resin film (resin film member) 4 serving as a support is formed on the clad material 3b'. Laminating is performed while applying pressure using a roller or the like. That is, the resin film 4 is laminated on the clad layer 3a 'via the clad material 3b'.

In this state, when the clad material 3b 'is cured by irradiating with ultraviolet rays, the clad layer 3b' of the same material as the clad layer 3a 'is formed and the resin film 4 is adhered. Here, the cladding layers 3a ′, 3
Since b'is made of the same clad material, it functions as a clad layer 3'for one layer. Then, as shown in FIG. 3 (D), the member 2'3'4 composed of the core layer 2 ', the clad layers 3' (3a ', 3b') and the resin film 4 is integrally formed from the stamper 1. Peel (separate).

Next, as shown in FIG. 3 (E), a core layer 2 ″ and a cladding layer 3a ″ are similarly coated on a stamper 1 ″ on which a desired concavo-convex pattern of the next layer is engraved, and ultraviolet irradiation is performed. Then, as shown in FIG. 3F, the cladding material 3 is formed on the cladding layer 3a ″.
The same clad material 3b "as a" is applied, and the above-mentioned members 2'3'4 are adhered on it. After curing the clad material 3b ″ by ultraviolet irradiation, as shown in FIG.
From the stamper 1 ″ to the core layer 2 ″ and the clad layer 3 ″
(3a ″, 3b ″) and the members 2′3′4 are integrally separated.

By repeating the above process, the resin clad layer 3 and the resin core layer 2 are formed on at least one surface of the resin film 4 as a support as shown in FIG. Layer 3 and resin core layer 2
The clad / core member having the uneven portion 5 at the interface with
The above is laminated to form a laminated body. Here, as shown in FIG. 4, since the clad / core member is fragile, two or more clad / core members are laminated on the resin film 4 as the support, but the resin film 4 is further adhered to The structure is such that it is sandwiched between the resin films 4.
It is not necessary to have a structure in which the resin film is sandwiched between the resin films. For example, the resin film may be attached to only one surface, or the resin film may not be attached.

Here, the resin core layer 2 and the resin clad layer 3 laminated on both surfaces of the resin core layer 2 are used.
And a plurality of slab type optical waveguide devices (optical waveguide members) 323 each having an uneven portion 5 provided on at least one of the interfaces between the resin core layer 2 and the resin clad layer 3 are laminated. It can also be seen as forming the body.

In this case, a plurality of laminated optical waveguide members 3
Reference numeral 23 also serves as a single clad layer between two adjacent optical waveguide members. Therefore, when five layers of the clad layer and the core layer are laminated, for example, clad layer / core layer / clad layer / core layer / clad layer, two optical waveguide members 323 are laminated to form a laminated body. It will be.

In this embodiment, the adjacent clad layers are commonly used as one layer, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a three-layer laminated body of clad layer / core layer / clad layer (optical waveguide (Member) 323 as a basic structure, a plurality of optical waveguide members 323 may be laminated with or without a support such as the resin film 4 interposed therebetween. Alternatively, the optical waveguide members may be laminated with an adhesive. Here, as the adhesive, for example, a clad material that functions as a clad layer after curing can be used. Further, a curl of the laminated body can be suppressed by similarly laminating a clad / core member on the back surface side of the resin film 4 as a support or providing another resin layer.

Further, in this embodiment, the optical memory device 10 is used.
In order to configure the above, a plurality of optical waveguide members 323 are laminated to form a laminated body, but the present invention is not limited to this, and one optical waveguide member (three-layer laminated body of clad layer / core layer / clad layer). The optical memory device 10 may be composed of only 323. In the above description, any resin may be applied to the core material 2 as long as it is a liquid at the time of application and can be subsequently cured, but a suitable substance is, for example, an ultraviolet curable material. Examples thereof include photocurable resins such as resins and thermosetting resins. However, when the transfer is performed by the stamper as described above, it is preferable to apply a photocurable resin, for example, an acrylic type, an epoxy type,
Thiol-based resins are preferable.

The clad material 3 may be any material (resin) that is transparent and has a refractive index slightly smaller than that of the core material 2, but it is easy to apply the clad material 3 made of various resins. The clad material 3 made of a photocurable resin, a thermosetting resin, or the like has excellent adhesiveness to the resin film 4 and is suitable. The coating method of the core material 2 and the clad material 3 includes
For example, there are a spin coating method, a blade coating method, a gravure coating method, a die coating method and the like, but any coating method may be used as long as the coating film thickness and the uniformity are satisfied.

Here, the thickness of the laminated body formed by laminating the optical waveguide members 323 is preferably about 0.3 mm or more in order to obtain strength. More preferably, it is about 0.5 mm or more. However, optical memory such as optical card (information recording medium)
Considering the portability as above, the thickness is preferably about 5 mm or less. More preferably, it is about 3 mm or less. In the present embodiment, as the support, various materials such as resin and metal are used as long as they are substances capable of functioning as a support for holding the laminated body (optical memory element 10). If flexibility is required such as
It is preferable to use a resin support. Although various curable resins may be applied and then cured, or the resin may be dissolved in a solvent and applied and dried to form a resin support, but when the resin film 4 is used, the resin film 4 may be attached to or removed from the stamper 1. It is preferable from the viewpoint of productivity and workability that it is easy to repeat.

Specifically, the resin film 4 includes amorphous polyolefin such as Arton (manufactured by JSR), polycarbonate, PET (polyethylene terephthalate),
A thermoplastic resin film such as PEN (polyethylene naphthalate) having excellent optical properties (PEN is also excellent in heat resistance) is preferable (especially, since PET and PEN are each easily obtained as a film having a uniform thickness). Suitable)
Then, it is preferable that one of these is formed to a thickness of 100 μm or less by a method such as hot drawing or solvent casting.

In general, the resin film 4 is mixed with inorganic particles or the like that optically function as a scatterer in the manufacturing process. If the scattering of light by the scatterers in the film is a problem when reading the signal,
In the case where the clad / core member is laminated only on one surface of the film, it is preferable to use a light-shielding film as the film or to provide a light-shielding film between the film and the clad / core member. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the propagation of light into the resin film or the interference of the scattered light in the film with the signal light.

In this case, it is preferable that the support itself has a light-shielding property because the optical memory element 10 can be downsized and the manufacturing process can be simplified. Here, examples of the light-shielding film and the light-shielding film include a PET film produced by kneading carbon into a resin or adding a dye. Regarding the wavelength range in which the light-shielding film or the light-shielding film acts, it is sufficient if the wavelength of the introduced light (incident light, reproduction light) used for reproduction can be shielded, and it is not necessary to shield the entire visible light region. Absent. Regarding the light-shielding performance, it is sufficient that 90% or more of light can be blocked in the film thickness direction, but it is more desirable that 99% or more of light can be blocked.

The thickness of the core layer 2 and the clad layer 3 may be any thickness as long as the core layer 2 and the clad layer 3 function as an optical waveguide. In the wavelength range, the core layer 2 is about 0.5-
It is considered to be about 3.0 μm. In this case, the film thickness of the clad layer 3 is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 100 μm or less in consideration of reducing the total thickness. If the lower limit is specified, it will be 0.1 μm or more.

It is preferable that the clad layer 3 is divided into two layers as described above because the film thickness is stable, but it may be formed as one layer. Further, in the above, the resin film 4
As the above, the method using a sheet of film has been described, but a continuous film can also be used. Clad / core member on the support by combining processes such as core coating on film, die coater of micro clad material, micro gravure, bar coater, etc., core under pressure of stamper, curing of clad material It is possible to fabricate a structure body in which Further, it is possible to improve the productivity of the transfer process from the stamper by using a roll stamper processed into a shape that can be wound into a roll as the stamper.

The optical memory device 10 constructed as described above.
Then, for example, when light is introduced into the core layer 2 as an optical waveguide through the incident end face, the introduced light propagates while being scattered by the uneven portion of the interface. The scattered light at this time propagates (transmits) in each of the up and down directions (directions intersecting) with the introduced light, and finally is emitted from both sides of the optical memory element to the outside, and an image corresponding to the uneven pattern is formed. It will form an image.

As described above, according to this embodiment, both the laminated core layer 2 and clad layer 3 are made of resin,
In addition, since the core layer (core material) 2 on which irregularities are formed is made of a curable resin that can be cured by light, heat, etc. The transfer from the stamper makes it possible to easily form the uneven portion 5 having a desired shape at the interface between the core layer 2 and the cladding layer 3.

The film thickness of the cladding layer 3 is, for example, 10 μm.
By setting the thickness to about m, the film thickness of the device can be suppressed to about 1 mm even when 100 layers are stacked, and the practical optical memory device 10 having a multilayer structure can be manufactured. Therefore, it becomes possible to mass-produce the optical memory device 10 having a multilayer structure, and the optical memory device 10 can be provided more easily (in a short period of time) and at a lower cost than ever before.

Optical memory device 1 manufactured in this way
As shown in FIGS. 2 (A) and 2 (B), the incident light (0) for reading information of the uneven portion 5 provided at the interface between the resin core layer 2 and the resin clad layer 3 is shown in FIG. Incident end face (incident light introduction end face) for guiding reproduction light) to the resin core layer 2
11 is formed. Here, the end surface of each optical memory element cut out to have a desired size from an optical memory element manufactured using a circular stamper at 90 degrees (the angle formed with the surface of the optical waveguide member is 90 degrees) is the incident end surface. (90 degree incident end face) is 11.

The incident end face 11 for guiding the incident light to the resin core layer 2 is not limited to this, and various types can be considered. For example, one end face of the optical memory element 10 is 45 degrees (the angle formed by the surface of the optical waveguide member is 45 degrees).
The mirror end surface (inclined end surface, micromirror) may be formed by cutting a reflective film as necessary, and this mirror end surface may be used as the incident end surface (45 degree incident end surface). In this case, from the direction perpendicular to the surface of the optical memory element 10,
Light is incident on the 45-degree incident end face and reflected by the 45-degree incident end face to guide the incident light to the resin core layer 2.

As described above, various types of incident end faces are conceivable, but generally, the incident end face is a 90 ° incident end face [that is, the angle between the incident end face and the core layer is about 90 ° (substantially right angle)]. In that case, the manufacturing cost of the optical memory element 10 can be kept lower than in the case where the incident facet is at 45 degrees, and since the incident light (reproducing light) is introduced, the dead part in which the uneven portion for information cannot be provided cannot be provided. It is preferable in that the space can be reduced.

In the optical memory device manufactured as described above, the material used for the core layer and the clad layer is usually a photocurable resin such as acrylic resin, and the substrate is PET, PEN, or amorphous polyolefin. And thermoplastic resins such as polycarbonate, polymethylmethacrylate, and ABS resin. Generally, since these resins are insulators, they are easily charged and easily attract dust in the air, and thus dust easily attaches to the element surface. In addition, since it is a resin, mold and bacteria may adhere to it and proliferate.

[1] Antistatic Layer Therefore, by providing an antistatic layer on at least the incident end surface and / or the exit surface, it is possible to prevent dust from adhering and to obtain a high-quality reproduced image during reproduction. is there. In addition, since dust does not adhere to the optical memory device without special handling, the user can easily handle the optical memory device when storing or carrying it.

An example of forming the antistatic layer on the entire surface of the optical memory element will be described. As the antistatic layer,
For example, it may be a layer containing an antistatic agent. For example, the antistatic agent itself or an antistatic agent solution may be applied to the surface of the optical memory element and dried if necessary to form the antistatic layer. A general coating method can be used, and examples thereof include a dipping method and a spin coating method. However, from the viewpoint of long-term sustainability of the antistatic effect, it is preferable to form a resin layer containing an antistatic agent on the surface of the optical memory element. Furthermore, the cladding layer on the surface of the optical memory element may be made of a material containing an antistatic agent.

The type of antistatic agent is not particularly limited as long as it fulfills its function, and examples thereof include siloxane type antistatic agents and surfactant type antistatic agents. Surfactant-based antistatic agents are roughly classified into cationic, anionic, nonionic and amphoteric. Examples of the cationic surfactant include quaternary ammonium salts such as dodecyltrimethylammonium chloride, and examples of the anionic surfactant include:
Aliphatic sulfonate, higher alcohol sulfate ester salt,
Examples of the higher alcohol phosphate ester salt include nonionic surfactants such as higher alcohol ethylene oxide, polyethylene glycol fatty acid ester, and polyhydric alcohol fatty acid ester, and amphoteric surfactants include betaine. Examples of the aliphatic sulfonate-type antistatic agent include the following.

[0059]

Embedded image Higher aliphatic sulfonate represented by R ₁ —SO ₃ X (I)

[0060]

[Chemical 2] Sulfonated higher fatty acid salt represented by

[0061]

Embedded image Higher aliphatic ester sulfonate represented by R ₁ —COOR ₃ —SO ₃ X (III)

[0062]

Embedded image The higher ether sulfonate represented by R ₁ —O—R ₃ —SO ₃ X (IV)

[0063]

[Chemical 5]

In the salt formula of the sulfosuccinate represented by: R ₁ is a higher aliphatic group X is an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal R ₂ is hydrogen or a lower alkyl group R ₃ is a divalent lower aliphatic group R ₄ Is hydrogen or a (higher) aliphatic group, which may be the same as or different from R ₁ .

In the above general formulas (I) to (V), R ₁
Examples thereof include a hexyl group, an octyl group, a decyl group, an undecyl group, a dodecyl group, a tridecyl group, a pentadecyl group, a hexadecyl group, a hexadecylene group, a heptadecyl group and an octadecyl group, and R ₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group, an ethyl group. Examples of R ₃ include methylene group, ethylene group, propylene group, tetramethylene group, 2-hydroxytrimethylene group and the like. Examples of X include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and the like.

Examples of these aliphatic sulfonate type antistatic agents include sodium dodecyl sulfonate, sodium tetradecyl sulfonate, sodium hexadecyl sulfonate, sodium octadecyl sulfonate or a mixture thereof, sodium salt of dioctyl sulfosuccinate, Sodium salt of bis (dodecyl) sulfosuccinate,
Examples thereof include sodium salt of bis (octadecyl) sulfosuccinate or a mixture thereof.

Among these, alkyl sulfonate Na
Salts, Na salts of dialkyl sulfosuccinates are preferred. When the antistatic agent is blended in the resin and used, the blending amount is usually 0.1 to 5 parts by weight, preferably 0.5 to 3 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of the resin. If the blending amount is small, the effect of improving the antistatic property is small, and conversely if the blending amount is large, the fluidity and moldability are deteriorated, which is not preferable. If desired, other known additives may be blended with the above resin together with the above antistatic agent.

Alternatively, conductive fine particles may be used as the antistatic agent.
You may add. For example, SnO₂, TiO₂, ZnO, etc.
SnO in the metal oxides of Al and Sb and other metals₂The code
The one that has been used is used. Also, this conductive fine particle
As a child, especially SnO ₂Something transparent like
It is preferably used. Conductive fine particles used in the present invention
The particle size of is preferably 0.3 μm or less. This particle size is 0.
If it exceeds 3 μm, it may cause noise during recording and playback.
It is not preferable because More preferably 0.2 μm or less
is there. The content of the conductive fine particles contained in the layer is 1
The range of 0-40% by weight is preferred. Content is less than 10%
In that case, the conductivity is drastically reduced and the antistatic effect is impaired.
If it exceeds 40%, the adhesive strength will decrease,
Durability is lost, which is not preferable.

Further, instead of the layer containing the antistatic agent,
A metal layer made of a metal such as aluminum, copper or gold or an alloy may be provided as the antistatic layer. A general method can be used for forming the metal layer, and examples thereof include a sputtering method and a vapor deposition method. Preferably, the predetermined surface electric resistance is 1 × 10 ¹⁴ Ω / □. By setting the surface electric resistance to 1 × 10 ¹⁴ Ω / □ or less, adhesion of dust due to electrostatic action due to electrification can be reliably prevented. The surface resistance decreases as the amount of surfactant added to the resin material. This surface electric resistance differs depending on the type of surfactant and the type of resin material to be added. Therefore, the surface electric resistance of the spacer can be set to 1 × 10 ¹⁴ Ω / □ or less by appropriately selecting the mixing amount of the surfactant depending on the kind of the surfactant and the resin material mixed with the surfactant.

[2] Antibacterial layer Next, by providing an antibacterial layer on at least the incident end surface and / or the exit surface, the attachment and growth of mold and fungi can be prevented, and a high quality reproduced image can be obtained during reproduction. It is a thing. In addition, since molds and fungi do not grow without special handling, the user can easily handle the optical memory device when storing or carrying it.

An example of forming an antibacterial layer on the entire surface of the optical memory element will be described. The antibacterial layer may be, for example, a layer containing an antibacterial agent. For example, the antibacterial agent itself or the antibacterial agent solution may be applied to the surface of the optical memory element and dried if necessary to form the antibacterial layer. A general coating method can be used, and examples thereof include a dipping method and a spin coating method. However, from the viewpoint of long-term antibacterial effect, it is preferable to form a resin layer containing an antibacterial agent on the surface of the optical memory element. Furthermore, the clad layer on the surface of the optical memory element may be made of a material containing an antibacterial agent.

The type of the antibacterial agent is not particularly limited as long as it fulfills its function, and examples thereof include antifungal agents. Examples of the fungicides include benzimidazole compounds, thiphonate methyl compounds, dioxoimidazolidine compounds, isothiazolone compounds and the like. Specifically, JP-A-9-161317 and JP-A-10-
For example, those described in Japanese Patent No. 27381 can be used.

[3] Water-repellent layer Next, by providing a water-repellent layer on at least the incident end surface and / or the exit surface, dirt is less likely to adhere, and a reproduced image of high quality can be obtained during reproduction. Further, since dirt does not adhere without special handling, the user can easily handle the optical memory device when it is stored or carried.

An example of forming the water repellent layer on the entire surface of the optical memory element will be described. The water-repellent layer can be, for example, a layer containing a water-repellent agent. For example, the water repellent agent itself or the water repellent agent solution may be applied to the surface of the optical memory element and dried as necessary to form the water repellent layer. A general coating method can be used, and examples thereof include a dipping method and a spin coating method. However, from the viewpoint of long-term sustainability of the water repellent effect, it is preferable to form a resin layer containing a water repellent agent on the surface of the optical memory element. Further, the cladding layer on the surface of the optical memory element may be made of a material containing a water repellent.

The type of the water repellent is not particularly limited as long as it fulfills its function. For example, a fluorine-based or silicon-based inorganic thin film,
Fluorine-based polymers, silicon compounds, paraffin-based waxes, olefin-based films, etc. may be mentioned. For example, a thin film of fluorinated magnesium, fluorinated graphite, fluorinated lanthanum, fluorine or silicon, silicon nitride, silicon carbide or the like may be formed by a usual film forming method such as vapor deposition, sputtering or ion plating.

Alternatively, a layer made of perfluorocarbon such as Teflon (registered trademark), polydimethylsiloxane, or a silicon compound such as silicone may be formed. Further, a film such as polyethylene or polypropylene may be laminated (attached) on the surface of the optical memory element.
By the way, the incident end face 1 is formed on the optical waveguide member 323 as described above.
In practical use of the optical memory element 10 formed by 1 as an optical memory such as a card, the information reproduction of the optical memory element 10 is not hindered,
It is preferable to protect the incident end surface 11 and the reproducing surface of the optical memory element 10 from being scratched.

For example, when carrying around like an optical memory in the form of a card, portability is taken into consideration so that a high protection effect can be obtained. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the optical memory element 10 is covered with the entire optical memory element 10.
In order to protect (particularly the incident end face 11), FIG.
As shown in (B), the optical memory device 10 is housed in a cartridge (protective member, protective case; container that holds the optical memory device 10) 20.

The cartridge 20 is shown in FIG.
As shown in (A) and (B), a cartridge main body 21 capable of accommodating the optical memory element 10 therein and an openable / closable lid portion (cover portion, protection provided so as to cover the incident end surface 11 of the optical memory element 10). Lid 22). here,
The lid 22 is hinged to the cartridge body 21 (joint,
It is rotatably attached via a joint part) 23. 2A and 2B, the lid 22 is rotated and opened by the drive (reproducing device) via the hinge 23 during the information reproduction, whereby the cartridge 20 is opened. The incident end face 11 of the optical memory element 10 housed inside is exposed (exposed). Therefore, such a lid 22 is referred to as a rotary lid. The cartridge 20 having such a rotary lid portion 22 can surely open and close the lid portion 22 by the drive, and the protective member can be configured to have high reliability.

As described above, by constructing the lid portion 21 so that it can be opened and closed, the lid portion 21 can be opened to expose the entrance end face 11 only when reproducing information, and information can be reproduced, and at other times. The lid 21 is closed and the incident end face 11 is covered with the lid 2.
By covering with 1 the incident end face 11 can be reliably protected. In addition, although the lid portion 22 is configured as a rotatable lid portion here, for example, by sliding the lid portion in parallel with the incident end face 11,
The incident end face 11 may be exposed. Further, for example, the lid portion is formed of a flexible sheet-like member, and the incident end face 1 of the optical memory element 10 is formed by this sheet-like member.
1 to cover the cartridge main body 2 when reproducing information.
The incident end face 11 may be exposed (exposed) by shifting (sliding) the sheet-like member along the surface of 1. This is called a sliding lid.

If the cartridge 20 with a lid is used, the protection effect is high, and therefore, the portability is excellent. For example, as in the case where a protective sheet is attached to the incident end face 11 to protect it, The use is not limited to several times, and can be used repeatedly as many times as desired. Further, it is preferable that the cartridge 20 is made of a material that can transmit reproduction light (a material that is transparent to reproduction light). In this case, at least one surface of the cartridge 20 [the upper surface in FIGS. 1 (A) and 1 (B)], that is, the side of the CCD receiver or the like (output) when the optical memory device 10 is mounted in the drive. The surface (side) may be made of a material that can transmit the reproduction light.

As a result, the optical memory device 10 can be stored in the cartridge 20 and the lid 22 can be opened.
The scattered light scattered by the uneven portion 5 of the optical memory element 10 is output to the outside through the cartridge 20 made of a transparent material, and can be detected by a CCD receiver or the like. Then, when reproducing the information of the concave-convex portion 5 of the optical memory element 10, the optical memory element 10 housed in the cartridge 20 with the lid 22 closed.
When it is mounted (inserted) into the drive (reproducing apparatus) as it is, the lid 22 of the cartridge 20 is mechanically opened by the opening / closing mechanism of the drive to expose the incident end face 11 of the optical memory element 10. There is.

On the other hand, after reproducing the information, when the optical memory device 10 housed in the cartridge 20 is taken out from the drive, the lid portion 22 of the cartridge 20 is closed. The drive is the cartridge 2
It is necessary to provide an opening / closing mechanism for opening / closing the zero lid part 22. By thus opening and closing the lid portion 22 of the cartridge 20 in the drive, the optical memory element 10 is not touched when the lid portion 22 of the cartridge 20 is opened and closed. Since the incident end surface 11) is not scratched or dirty, the protective effect is high.

Although the lid portion 22 of the cartridge 20 is opened and closed in the drive here, the present invention is not limited to this, and a person may open the lid portion 22 of the cartridge 20 immediately before mounting on the drive. With the lid 22 open, attach the cartridge 20 to the drive (insert)
It may be done. In this case, for example, the lid 22 may be automatically closed by a spring or the like when it is taken out from the drive.

Further, here, the protective member is the cartridge 20 provided with the lid portion 22, but the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be constructed as follows. The protective member is configured as a cartridge (without a lid) that covers the entire optical memory element 10, and an opening is formed on the surface facing the incident end surface 11 of the optical memory element 10 housed inside. Configure as. In this case, incident light is introduced to the incident end surface 11 of the optical memory element 10 through the opening formed in the end surface of the cartridge,
The information on the uneven portion 5 of the optical memory element 10 is reproduced.

The protective member is configured as a cartridge (without a lid) that covers the entire optical memory element 10, and the surface facing the incident end surface 11 of the optical memory element 10 housed inside is protected by the incident light. It is made of a material that is transparent to light (a material that is transparent to incident light). in this case,
Incident light for reproducing information on the concave-convex portion 5 of the optical memory element 10 is introduced through the surface of the cartridge made of the transparent material, and the information on the concave-convex portion 5 of the optical memory element 10 is reproduced.

In the present invention, when a protective member is provided on the incident end face of the reproduction light and / or the outgoing face of the scattered light and the antistatic layer is provided on the surface of the protective member, scratches can be prevented and It is more preferable because it can suppress the adhesion of dust. For example, the optical memory element may be housed in a cartridge and the surface of the cartridge may be coated with an antistatic agent solution, or the cartridge itself may be made of a material containing an antistatic agent.

Further, it is more preferable that the surface of the protective member is provided with an antibacterial layer because scratches can be prevented and the attachment and growth of mold and bacteria can be suppressed. For example, the optical memory element may be housed in a cartridge and the antibacterial agent solution may be applied to the surface of the cartridge, or the cartridge itself may be made of a material containing an antibacterial agent. Alternatively, a structure in which a water-repellent layer is provided on the surface of the protective member can prevent scratches and prevent dirt from adhering, which is more preferable. For example, the optical memory element may be housed in a cartridge and a water repellent solution may be applied to the surface of the cartridge, or the cartridge itself may be made of a material containing a water repellent.

The method of forming the above-mentioned layer on the surface of the protective member, the preferable material and the like are the same as the case of forming directly on the optical memory element.

[0089]

According to the optical memory element of the present invention, since it is possible to protect the incident end face of the reproduction light and the emission face of the scattered light from being attached with dirt and dust, there is an advantage that a reproduction image with high signal quality can be obtained. . Also, since dirt and dust are hard to attach,
There is an advantage that the user can easily handle the optical memory device.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of an optical memory according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG.
(B) is a side view thereof.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an open state of a lid portion of an optical memory according to an embodiment of the present invention, (A) is a perspective view thereof, and (B) is a side view thereof.

FIG. 3A to FIG. 3G are schematic cross-sectional views for explaining a method for manufacturing a laminated body that constitutes the optical memory element according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining an example of a laminated structure of a laminated body that constitutes the optical memory element according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view for explaining the operation principle of a conventional optical memory device.

FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view for explaining the operation principle of a conventional optical memory device.

7A and 7B are schematic perspective views for explaining the operation principle of a conventional optical memory device.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 stamper 2 core layers 3 Clad layer 4 Resin film (support) 5 uneven parts 10 Optical memory device 11 Incident end face 20 Cartridge (protective member) 21 Cartridge body 22 Lid 23 Hinge

Claims (16)

[Claims] 1. An optical waveguide member comprising a core layer and a clad layer laminated on both surfaces of the core layer, the optical waveguide member having an uneven portion for information on at least one of the interfaces between the core layer and the clad layer. Or, it has a plurality of incident end faces for guiding the reproduction light to the core layer, and guides the reproduction light incident from the incidence end face to the core layer to scatter at the uneven portion for information, and scatter. An optical memory element for emitting light from its surface to the outside to obtain a reproduced image, wherein an antistatic layer is provided on at least the incident end face of the reproduced light and / or the emitted face of the scattered light. Optical memory device. 2. The optical memory element according to claim 1, wherein the antistatic layer is a layer containing an antistatic agent. 3. The optical memory device according to claim 1, wherein the antistatic layer is a metal layer. 4. The protection member is provided on the incident end surface of the reproduction light and / or the emission surface of the scattered light, and the antistatic layer is provided on the surface of the protection member. The optical memory device described. 5. The optical memory device according to claim 4, wherein the protection member is a cartridge that houses the optical memory device. 6. The optical memory device according to claim 1, wherein the core layer and / or the clad layer is made of resin. 7. An optical waveguide member comprising a core layer and a clad layer laminated on both surfaces of the core layer, and having at least one interface between the core layer and the clad layer, an optical waveguide member having an uneven portion for information. Or, it has a plurality of incident end faces for guiding the reproduction light to the core layer, and guides the reproduction light incident from the incidence end face to the core layer to scatter at the uneven portion for information, and scatter. An optical memory device for obtaining a reproduced image by emitting light from the surface thereof, wherein an antibacterial layer is provided on at least the incident end surface of the reproduced light and / or the scattered light emitting surface. element. 8. The antibacterial layer is a layer containing an antibacterial agent,
The optical memory device according to claim 7. 9. The optical memory device according to claim 7, wherein a protective member is provided on an incident end face of the reproduction light and / or an outgoing face of the scattered light, and the antibacterial layer is provided on a surface of the protective member. . 10. The optical memory device according to claim 9, wherein the protection member is a cartridge that houses the optical memory device. 11. The optical memory device according to claim 7, wherein the core layer and / or the clad layer is made of resin. 12. An optical waveguide member comprising a core layer and a clad layer laminated on both surfaces of the core layer, the optical waveguide member having an unevenness portion for information on at least one of the interfaces between the core layer and the clad layer. Or, it has a plurality of incident end faces for guiding the reproduction light to the core layer, and guides the reproduction light incident from the incidence end face to the core layer to scatter at the uneven portion for information, and scatter. An optical memory device for obtaining a reproduced image by emitting light from its surface to the outside, characterized in that a water-repellent layer is provided on at least the incident end face of the reproduced light and / or the scattered light emitting face. element. 13. The optical memory element according to claim 12, wherein the water-repellent layer is a layer containing a water-repellent agent. 14. The optical memory device according to claim 12, wherein a protective member is provided on the incident end face of the reproduction light and / or the outgoing face of the scattered light, and the water repellent layer is provided on the protective member surface. . 15. The optical memory device according to claim 14, wherein the protection member is a cartridge that houses the optical memory device. 16. The optical memory device according to claim 12, wherein the core layer and / or the clad layer is made of resin.