JP4158992B2 - Light junction block - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical junction block that relays optical signals to be transmitted and / or performs optical demultiplexing and optical multiplexing, and in particular, optical communication used for wiring of various electrical equipment in automobiles, in-houses and buildings. The present invention relates to an optical junction block suitable for optical communication.

  In recent years, optical communication has become widespread in automobiles, homes, and buildings, and the diversification of networks is progressing with an increase in the number of nodes (number of terminals) that perform communication using light. Therefore, there is a need for a passive device that corresponds to a junction block in a wire harness and that can demultiplex and multiplex light.

  As this kind of passive device, an optical waveguide module as shown in FIG. 38 is known, and optical coupling is performed through the following steps (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  That is, the optical fiber 3 is aligned in accordance with the arrangement of the optical waveguides 2 of the optical waveguide module 1 to form the aligned optical fibers 4 and 5, and the image includes the light that has passed through the aligned optical fiber 4 and the optical waveguide module 1. The alignment optical fiber 4 and the optical waveguide module 1 are roughly positioned while being monitored by the TV camera 6 and the monitor 7, and the alignment optical fiber 5 is connected to the light quantity measuring device 8, and the alignment optical fiber 4 and the optical waveguide are thereby connected. A process of precisely aligning the optical fibers 4 and 5 and the optical waveguide module 1 while measuring the light passing through the module 1, and bonding optical fibers 4 and 5 to each end face of the optical waveguide module 1 Optical coupling is performed.

In FIG. 38, reference numeral 9 is a personal computer, 10 is a controller, 11 is a laser diode, and 12 is a stage. The stage 12 is controlled by the personal computer 9 and the controller 10.
JP-A-8-43676 (pages 3 to 4 and FIG. 4)

  By the way, the above prior art has a problem that an expensive apparatus and time are required for alignment (optical axis alignment) and optical coupling between the optical fiber 3 and the optical waveguide 2. Further, there is a problem that an adhesive is required for fixing the alignment optical fibers 4 and 5 and the optical waveguide module 1, and further, a light source device for curing the adhesive and a curing time are required.

  The present invention is made in view of the above-described circumstances, and it is an object to provide an optical junction block that is easy to align and optically couple and that does not require an expensive device for aligning and optically coupling. To do.

  The optical junction block of the present invention according to claim 1, which has been made to solve the above problems, is an optical junction block that relays and / or splits or combines optical signals to be transmitted. An optical waveguide member having a plurality of optical waveguides for optical demultiplexing or optical multiplexing, a casing for storing the optical waveguide member, and provided across the casing and the optical waveguide member, and attached to the optical waveguide member And an optical axis alignment sleeve that is positioned by the casing and is aligned by insertion of the end of the optical communication path, and a hood section that is provided in the casing and forms a fitting space. A plurality of connectors that optically couple the end portions of the optical waveguide and the end portions of the respective optical communication paths while aligning the optical waveguide member and the optical axis. Key One of the sleeves is provided with a mounting or fixing projection or pin-shaped member, and the other is provided with a mounting or fixing recess or through-hole into which the projection or pin-shaped member is inserted. Yes.

  An optical junction block according to a second aspect of the present invention is the optical junction block according to the first aspect, further comprising an interval holding member that prevents movement of the pair of optical axis alignment sleeves in a proximity direction. It is characterized by that.

  An optical junction block according to a third aspect of the present invention is the optical junction block according to the first aspect, further comprising a cap that replaces the optical axis alignment sleeve and prevents optical coupling. It is said.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the optical junction block includes the optical waveguide member, the housing, and the plurality of connectors. The optical waveguide member has a plurality of optical waveguides and is accommodated in a housing. The housing and the optical waveguide member are provided with a plurality of connectors straddling them.
A connector is configured by including an optical axis alignment sleeve and a hood portion. The optical axis alignment sleeve is retrofitted to the optical waveguide member and then attached to the housing. The optical axis alignment sleeve attached to the casing is positioned by the casing. Further, the optical axis alignment sleeve acts to align the end of the optical waveguide when the end of the optical communication path is inserted. On the other hand, the hood portion forms a fitting space that is required when the connector is connected. With the connector having such a configuration, the optical coupling between the end portion of the optical waveguide and the end portion of each optical communication path is satisfactorily performed.
Further, either one of the optical waveguide member and the optical axis alignment sleeve is provided with a fixing projection or a pin-shaped member. Moreover, a concave portion or a through hole for fixing an attachment into which a protrusion or a pin-like member is inserted is provided on either one of the other. The positional relationship between the optical waveguide member and the optical axis alignment sleeve is maintained by these protrusions or pin-like members and the recesses or through holes. And since it becomes difficult to generate | occur | produce a shift | offset | difference, the optical coupling | bonding with the edge part of each optical communication path | route is maintained favorable.
Then, the end portion of the optical waveguide of the housed optical waveguide member and the end portion of each optical communication path are aligned and optically coupled via a connector. According to the present invention, an optical junction block that does not require an expensive device or adhesive and that is easy to align and optically couple.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the spacing member is provided between the pair of optical axis alignment sleeves. The spacing member is provided to prevent the optical axis alignment sleeves from moving in the proximity direction. With such a spacing member, stress concentration on the optical waveguide member during connector connection is reduced. In other words, the optical waveguide member is reinforced by the spacing member. The spacing member is a particularly useful member when the optical waveguide member is not flexible.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, a cap serving as an alternative to the optical axis alignment sleeve is further provided. The cap is provided to prevent optical coupling. In other words, a cap is provided at a portion where optical coupling is not required. Such a cap prevents foreign matter from entering the housing and optical coupling errors.

  As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an optical junction block that is easily aligned and optically coupled and that does not require an expensive device for aligning and optically coupling. By configuring the connector with the optical axis alignment sleeve and the hood portion, optical coupling between the end of the optical waveguide and the end of each optical communication path can be performed satisfactorily. Thus, the positional relationship between the optical waveguide member and the optical axis alignment sleeve can be maintained, and the optical coupling with the end of each optical communication path can be favorably maintained.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the optical waveguide member can be reinforced. Therefore, there is an effect that the stress concentration on the optical waveguide member during connector connection can be reduced.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent foreign matters from being mixed into the housing and optical coupling errors.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an embodiment of an optical junction block according to the present invention. 2 is an explanatory view of the optical waveguide member, FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the housing, FIGS. 4 to 5 are perspective views of the connector, FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the connector, and FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the shutter. 8 is a perspective view of the optical junction block, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the optical junction block, FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a circle A in FIG. 9, FIG. 11 is an explanatory view of the optical coupling portion, and FIG. It is a top view which shows the other example.

  In FIG. 1, reference numeral 21 indicates an optical junction block used for optical communication in a car, optical communication in a house or a building, and the like. The optical junction block 21 is interposed between the ends of optical communication paths of an optical fiber (not shown) (for example, having a core diameter of about 200 μm or more), and is used for optical signals transmitted by the optical fiber (not shown). It is configured to be able to perform relaying and / or optical demultiplexing / optical multiplexing. That is, the optical junction block 21 includes an optical waveguide member 22, a housing 23, and a plurality of connectors 24. Moreover, the shutter 25 is also provided as needed. Hereinafter, each component will be described in detail.

  In the present embodiment, the optical waveguide member 22 is a sheet-like member having a quadrangular flexibility as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and a plurality of relay and / or optical demultiplexing / optical multiplexing units. The optical waveguide 26 and a sheet portion 27 in which the plurality of optical waveguides 26 are routed are configured. The optical waveguide member 22 is formed so as to be detachable from the housing 23 and the connector 24 (not limited to this. That is, it may be formed as a stationary type). In addition, the optical waveguide member 22 is not limited to a sheet shape, but may be a substrate shape or a combination of optical fibers).

  The optical waveguide 26 has a core and a clad having a refractive index lower than that of the core. The optical waveguide 26 is routed on the sheet portion 27 along a desired path. In this embodiment, the optical waveguide 26 is wired in the embedded state with respect to the sheet portion 27. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Moreover, although the cross-sectional shape is formed in a rectangular shape, it is not limited to this. That is, the optical waveguide 26 may be arranged on the sheet portion 27 by a printing method, a drawing method, or the like, or may have a general circular cross section.

  The sheet portion 27 is made of synthetic resin, and the length L1 in the transmission direction of the optical signal is larger than the size (dimension L2) of a storage portion 33 (to be described later) of the casing 23 (the same as that). It is also possible that the length is set. In the sheet portion 27, a plurality of convex portions 28 are formed so as to draw out each end portion of the optical waveguide 26. The plurality of convex portions 28 are each formed in a shape that can be inserted into a sleeve 44 described later of the corresponding connector 24. The convex portion 28 is formed so that the end face of the optical waveguide 26 is exposed from the end face thereof.

  The optical waveguide member 22 of this embodiment has an advantage that an optical waveguide member according to the specification can be selected from a plurality of types of optical waveguide members having different paths of the optical waveguide 26. In other words, there is an advantage that the optical waveguide member can have variations (for example, the optical waveguide member 22 in FIG. 2A, the optical demultiplexing type optical waveguide member 22a in FIG. 12A, 12B, the optical waveguide member 22b of the optical multiplexing type, the optical waveguide member 22c of the bus type of FIG. Can be easily rerouted).

  The casing 23 is made of synthetic resin, and as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the casing main body 29 for housing the optical waveguide member 22, and the casing main body 29 are fitted with an appropriate interval therebetween. And a lid 30 that covers the optical waveguide member 22.

  The housing body 29 includes a substrate 31 and a pair of side walls 32 and 32 along the optical signal transmission direction. Further, the housing body 29 has a storage portion 33 for the optical waveguide member 22 and a plurality of connector attachment portions 34 for the connector 24 (and the shutter 25). In this embodiment, the housing body 29 is formed in a rectangular shape in plan view.

  The substrate 31 has a flat surface. In addition, on the side walls 32 and 32 formed at the edge of the substrate 31, a plurality of flexible locking portions 35 are formed to which the lid 30 is detachably fitted. The storage portion 33 is formed so as to be surrounded by the substrate 31 and the side walls 32 and 32.

  The length L2 of the storage portion 33 in the optical signal transmission direction is formed so as not to be smaller than the size (dimension L1) of the optical waveguide member 22. In other words, in order to maintain good optical coupling, the length of the optical waveguide 26 is set so as not to become insufficient.

  The connector attachment portion 34 is a portion for detachably attaching the connector 24 (and the shutter 25), and in this embodiment, a total of four each, two on the end side in the optical signal transmission direction. It is formed (it is not limited to this number. That is, it does not disturb the setting of a plurality of types of housings 23 by changing the number of connector mounting portions 34). The connector mounting portion 34 is formed with groove-shaped guide rails 36 and 36 for allowing the connector 24 to slide. The connector 24 after being guided by the guide rails 36 and 36 is pressed by a lid 30 fitted to the housing body 29 so that it does not fall off unless the lid 30 is removed.

  The lid 30 is formed with a plurality of locking projections 37 that engage with the flexible locking portion 35 of the side wall 32. Further, a concave portion 38 (see FIG. 10) is formed in a portion of the lid 30 that faces the storage portion 33. The recess 38 and the storage portion 33 are formed so as to be able to absorb the bending of the optical waveguide member 22 caused by the difference in size.

  The connector 24 is a member for optically coupling the end of the optical waveguide 26 and the end (not shown) of each of the optical communication paths while aligning, and FIG. 1 and FIGS. 6, the connector housing 39 is made of synthetic resin.

  The connector housing 39 is formed in a box shape as shown. A fitting space 40 for fitting an optical coupling partner (not shown) having the optical communication path is formed on the front side of the connector housing 39. Further, rails 41 and 41 guided by the guide rails 36 and 36 of the housing 23 are formed on both side surfaces of the connector housing 39. Further, slits 42 and 42 into which the convex portions 28 of the optical waveguide member 22 are inserted are formed on the rear surface of the connector housing 39.

  In the fitting space 40, a lock portion 43 for the optical coupling partner (not shown) is formed. The fitting space 40 is formed with a pair of sleeves 44 and 44 for opposingly arranging the end of the optical waveguide 26 and the end of the optical communication path (not shown) (here, the light The case where the coupling partner is a two-core type is shown in the figure.

  The lock portion 43 has a known arm such as a flexible locking piece therein. The lock portion 43 has a function of maintaining the positional relationship between the optical waveguide member 22 and the optical coupling partner by the arm or the like. The sleeves 44 and 44 are formed in a cylindrical shape. From the front, an end (not shown) of the optical communication path is inserted by a predetermined amount. From the rear, the convex portion 28 of the optical waveguide member 22 is inserted through the slits 42 and 42. The sleeves 44 and 44 are formed so as to protect the optical coupling portion.

  The rear surface of the connector housing 39 is formed as a flat surface. The edge of the optical waveguide member 22 in the vicinity of the convex portion 28 is in contact with the rear surface of the connector housing 39. A reference numeral 45 on the rear surface of the connector housing 39 indicates a die-cutting hole for forming the lock portion 43.

  The shutter 25 is a member that is attached to the connector attachment portion 34 that does not require the connector 24 to be attached, and is formed in a shape that closes the connector attachment portion 34 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7. . The shutter 25 is a member that functions as an alternative to the connector 24, and rails 46 and 46 that are guided by the guide rails 36 and 36 are formed on both sides of the shutter 25.

  In the above configuration, the optical junction block 21 according to the present invention is assembled, for example, through the following procedure (see FIGS. 1 and 8 to 11). First, an operation of preparing the optical waveguide member 22, the casing 23, the connector 24, and the shutter 25 that meet specifications is performed. Next, an operation of attaching the connector 24 and the shutter 25 to the connector attachment portion 34 of the housing 23 is performed. Subsequently, the optical waveguide member 22 is accommodated in the accommodating portion 33 and the lid 30 is fitted to the housing body 29 to cover the optical waveguide member 22. Thereby, a series of assembly is completed and the optical junction block 21 is formed.

  The optical waveguide member 22 is stored in the storage portion 33 in a state where the optical waveguide member 22 is bent due to the difference in size. And the force which returns to the original state which arises by the bending of the optical waveguide member 22 acts on the connector 24, and the positional relationship of the optical waveguide member 22 and the connector 24 is maintained (ragging of the connector 24 is prevented). ) The convex portion 28 of the optical waveguide member 22 is inserted into the corresponding sleeve 44 through the slit 42.

  As described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12, the optical junction block 21 can optically couple with the optical coupling partner via the connector 24. Compared to the above, alignment and optical coupling can be made much easier. Further, since an expensive device as used in the conventional example is not required, alignment and optical coupling can be performed at low cost.

  Since the optical waveguide member 22 is a sheet-like member in this embodiment and has flexibility, the optical waveguide member 22 can be easily attached to and detached from the housing 23 and the connector 24. Moreover, since the optical waveguide member 22 is formed larger than the size of the storage portion 33 in this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the length of the optical waveguide 26 from being insufficient for optical coupling. Furthermore, since the optical waveguide member 22 is formed to be larger than the size of the storage portion 33 in this embodiment, a force to return to the original state caused by the bending of the optical waveguide member 22 is applied to the connector 24, The positional relationship between the optical waveguide member 22 and the connector 24 can be maintained.

  Since the connector 24 has the sleeve 44, the end of the optical waveguide 26 and the end (not shown) of the optical communication path can be easily aligned and protected. Further, since the connector 24 has the lock portion 43, the positional relationship between the optical waveguide member 22 and the optical coupling partner (not shown) can be maintained. In addition, by using the shutter 25, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from entering the housing 23 and optical coupling errors.

  In addition, the optical junction block 21 according to the present invention can have variations in each component. Further, the assembly can be facilitated by fitting (the adhesive used in the conventional example is unnecessary).

  Next, another embodiment of the optical junction block according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view showing another embodiment, FIG. 14 is an explanatory view of an optical waveguide member, FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a housing, and FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of an optical axis alignment sleeve. 17 is a perspective view of the upper housing, FIGS. 18 to 19 are perspective views of the cap, FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the optical junction block, FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the optical junction block, and FIG. FIG.

  In FIG. 13, the optical junction block denoted by reference numeral 51 is interposed between the ends of the optical communication paths of an optical fiber (not shown) (for example, having a core diameter of about 200 μm or more) as in the above-described embodiment. The optical signal transmitted through an optical fiber (not shown) is relayed and / or optically demultiplexed / multiplexed. That is, the optical junction block 51 includes an optical waveguide member 52, a casing 53, and a plurality of connectors 54 straddling them. Further, a cap 55 is also provided as necessary. Hereinafter, each component will be described in detail.

  In the present embodiment, the optical waveguide member 52 is a sheet-like member having a quadrangular flexibility as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, and is a plurality of relay and / or optical demultiplexing / optical multiplexing units. The optical waveguide 56 and a sheet portion 57 in which the plurality of optical waveguides 56 are routed. The optical waveguide member 52 is formed so as to be detachable with respect to the casing 53 and the connector 54 (not limited to this. That is, it may be formed as a stationary type). In addition, the optical waveguide member 52 is not limited to a sheet shape, but may be a substrate shape or a combination of optical fibers).

  The optical waveguide 56 has a core and a clad having a refractive index lower than that of the core. The optical waveguide 56 is routed on the sheet portion 57 along a desired path. In addition, in this embodiment, the optical waveguide 56 is wired in the embedded state with respect to the sheet portion 57, but it is not limited to this. Moreover, although the cross-sectional shape is formed in a rectangular shape, it is not limited to this. That is, the optical waveguide 56 may be arranged on the sheet portion 57 or may have a general circular cross section.

  The sheet portion 57 is made of synthetic resin, and the length L1 in the optical signal transmission direction is larger than the size (dimension L2) of a storage portion 64 (to be described later) of the casing 53 (same as above). It is also possible that the length is set. The sheet portion 57 is formed with a plurality of convex portions 58 that pull out each end portion of the optical waveguide 56. The seat portion 57 is formed with a plurality of through holes 59 for fixing to the connector 54.

  The plurality of convex portions 58 are each formed in a shape that can be inserted into a sleeve 77 (described later) of the corresponding connector 54 (which is disposed in the sleeve 77). The convex portion 58 is formed so that the end face of the optical waveguide 56 is exposed from the end face thereof. In the present embodiment, the plurality of through holes 59 are formed four by four in the vicinity of the convex portion 58. Further, the optical waveguide 56 is formed at a position sandwiching it. A pin-like member 75 described later of the connector 54 is inserted into such a through hole 59.

  The optical waveguide member 52 of this embodiment selects an optical waveguide member according to the specification from among a plurality of types of optical waveguide members having different paths of the optical waveguide 56, as in the above-described optical waveguide member 22 (see FIG. 1). Has the advantage of being able to.

  The casing 53 is made of synthetic resin, and as shown in FIGS. 13 and 15, the casing main body 60 that houses the optical waveguide member 52 and the casing main body 60 are fitted into the casing main body 60 with an appropriate interval. A lid 61 covering the optical waveguide member 52 is provided.

  The housing body 60 has a substrate 62 and a pair of side walls 63 and 63 along the transmission direction of the optical signal. Further, the housing body 60 includes a storage portion 64 for the optical waveguide member 52 and a plurality of sleeve mounting portions 65 for the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a (and the cap 55) described later. Furthermore, the housing body 60 has a plurality of lower hood portions 67 for forming the fitting space 66. The fitting space 66 is used when fitting an optical coupling partner (not shown) having the optical communication path to the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a. In this embodiment, the housing body 60 is formed in a rectangular shape in plan view.

  The substrate 62 has a flat surface. In addition, a plurality of flexible locking portions 68 for detachably fitting the lid 61 are formed on the side walls 63, 63 formed at the edge of the substrate 62. The storage portion 64 is formed so as to be surrounded by the substrate 62 and the side walls 63 and 63.

  The length L2 of the storage portion 64 in the optical signal transmission direction is formed so as not to be smaller than the size (dimension L1) of the optical waveguide member 52. That is, in order to maintain the optical coupling well, the length of the optical waveguide 56 is set so as not to become insufficient.

  The sleeve attaching portion 65 is a portion for detachably attaching the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a (and the cap 55). In this embodiment, four sleeves are provided on the end side in the optical signal transmission direction. A total of eight are formed each time (the number is not limited to this, ie, the number of the sleeve mounting portions 65 is not changed to prevent setting of the plurality of types of casings 53). The sleeve mounting portion 65 is formed so that the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a can be guided by a plurality of walls.

  The optical axis alignment sleeve 54a after being guided by the sleeve mounting portion 65 is pressed by a lid 61 fitted to the housing body 60 so that it does not fall off unless the lid 61 is removed.

  The plurality of lower hood portions 67 are formed so as to be continuous with the sleeve attaching portion 65, respectively. Further, the plurality of lower hood portions 67 are formed in accordance with the shape of the optical coupling partner (not shown) (the same applies to the upper hood portion 71 described later. The lower hood portion 67 and the upper hood portion 71 claim the same). The hood part described in the scope of the above shall be configured).

  The lid 61 is formed with a plurality of locking projections 69 that engage with the flexible locking portions 68 of the side wall 63. The lid 61 is formed with side walls 70 and 70 that overlap the side walls 63 and 63 of the housing body 60 and a plurality of upper hood portions 71 that face the lower hood portion 67 of the housing body 60. . A plurality of upper hood portions 71 are formed with lock portions 72 for the optical coupling partner (not shown). The lock portion 72 is configured to engage, for example, a flexible locking piece formed on the optical coupling partner (not shown) (here, formed in a through hole shape).

  The housing body 60 and the lid 61 are formed so as to be able to absorb the bending of the optical waveguide member 52 caused by the size difference.

  The connector 54 is a member for optically coupling the end portion of the optical waveguide 56 and the end portion (not shown) of each optical communication path while aligning, and FIG. 13 and FIGS. As shown in FIG. 17, the optical axis alignment sleeve 54 a, a sleeve mounting portion 65, a lower hood portion 67, and an upper hood portion 71 are provided.

  The optical axis aligning sleeve 54 a includes an upper housing 73 made of synthetic resin, a lower housing 74, and a plurality of pin-like members 75. The optical axis alignment sleeve 54a has a split structure (fixing means for retrofitting) such that the optical waveguide member 52 is sandwiched and fixed using the upper housing 73 and the lower housing 74.

  A plurality of holes 76 into which a plurality of pin-like members 75 are inserted are formed in the upper housing 73 and the lower housing 74. The upper connector 73 and the lower connector 74 are formed with a sleeve 77 having the same function as the above-described sleeve 44 (see FIG. 6). The sleeve 77 is constituted by split sleeves 77a and 77b. Reference numeral 73a indicates a recess formed along the path of the optical waveguide 56 (see FIG. 14).

  The cap 55 is a member that is attached to the sleeve attaching portion 65 that does not require the attachment of the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a (the setting of the connector 54 is unnecessary), and is shown in FIGS. 13 and 18 to 19. As shown, it is formed in a shape that closes the sleeve mounting portion 65. The cap 55 is a member that functions as an alternative to the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a, and a slit 78 into which the sheet portion 57 is inserted is formed on the rear side of the cap 55.

  In the above configuration, the optical junction block 51 according to the present invention is assembled, for example, through the following procedure (see FIGS. 13 and 20 to 22). First, an operation of preparing the optical waveguide member 52, the casing 53, the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a, and the cap 55 that meet specifications is performed. Subsequently, the vicinity of the convex portion 58 of the optical waveguide member 52 is sandwiched between the upper housing 73, the lower housing 74, and the plurality of pin-shaped members 75, and the work of fixing the optical waveguide member 52 and the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a by retrofitting is performed.

  Subsequently, the optical axis aligning sleeve 54 a and the cap 55 are respectively attached to the connector attaching portion 65 of the housing 53, and the optical waveguide member 52 is accommodated in the accommodating portion 64. Finally, the lid 61 is fitted to the housing main body 60 to cover the optical waveguide member 52. Thereby, a series of assembly is completed and the optical junction block 51 is formed.

  The optical waveguide member 52 is stored in the storage portion 64 in a state where the optical waveguide member 52 is bent due to the difference in size. Then, the force to return to the original state caused by the bending of the optical waveguide member 52 acts on the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a, and the positional relationship between the optical waveguide member 52 and the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a is maintained. (Shaking of the optical axis alignment sleeve 54a is prevented). The convex portion 58 of the optical waveguide member 52 is disposed on the corresponding sleeve 77.

  As described above with reference to FIGS. 13 to 22, the optical junction block 51 can optically couple with the optical coupling partner via the connector 54. The same effect as that of the optical junction block 21 can be obtained. That is, it is possible to provide an optical junction block that is easy to align and optically couple and that does not require an expensive device for aligning and optically coupling.

  Next, still another embodiment of the optical junction block according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 23 is a perspective view showing still another embodiment, FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of an optical junction block, FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of an optical connector (four cores), and FIG. 26 is an optical connector (single core). FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view, and FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of an optical junction block.

  23 to 27, the optical junction block denoted by reference numeral 81 is interposed between the ends of the optical communication paths of the optical fiber 82 (for example, having a core diameter of about 200 μm or more), as in the above-described embodiment. Therefore, the optical signal transmitted through the optical fiber 82 is relayed and / or optically demultiplexed / multiplexed. In other words, the optical junction block 81 includes an optical waveguide member 83, a housing 84, and a plurality of connectors 85 straddling them. Hereinafter, each component will be described in detail.

  In this embodiment, the optical waveguide member 83 is a plate-like member having a rectangular shape (rectangular shape) in plan view as shown in the figure, and may be used for optical multiplexing (relay and / or optical demultiplexing). A plurality of optical waveguides 86, and a substrate portion 87 on which the plurality of optical waveguides 86 are routed. The optical waveguide member 83 is formed so as to be detachable from the housing 84 and the connector 85.

  The optical waveguide 86 has a core and a clad having a refractive index lower than that of the core. Such an optical waveguide 86 is routed in a desired path on the substrate portion 87 (the routing state is not particularly limited). The end face (end portion) of the optical waveguide 86 is routed so as to be exposed from the end portion of the substrate portion 87.

  The substrate portion 87 is made of a synthetic resin, and a plurality of mounting and fixing projections 88 are provided at appropriate positions. The protrusions 88 are formed in a pin shape, and in this embodiment, two protrusions are provided at each end of the substrate portion 87 (in addition, the protrusions 88 may be replaced with recesses 109 described later). To do).

  The optical waveguide member 83 of this embodiment selects an optical waveguide member according to the specification from a plurality of types of optical waveguide members having different paths of the optical waveguide 86, as in the above-described optical waveguide member 22 (see FIG. 1). Has the advantage of being able to.

  The casing 84 is made of a synthetic resin, and includes a casing main body 89 that houses the optical waveguide member 83, and a lid 90 that fits the casing main body 89 and covers the optical waveguide member 83 at an appropriate interval. It is prepared for.

  The housing body 89 includes a substrate 91 having a flat surface and a pair of side walls 92 and 92 along the optical signal transmission direction. The housing main body 89 includes a storage portion 93 for the optical waveguide member 83 and sleeve mounting portions 94 and 94 for optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101 to be described later. Furthermore, the housing main body 89 has lower hood portions 96 and 96 for forming fitting spaces 95 and 95. The fitting spaces 95 and 95 are used when fitting optical connectors 113 and 114 (optical coupling partners) having the optical communication path to the optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101, which will be described later. Yes.

  In this embodiment, the housing main body 89 is formed in a rectangular shape (rectangular shape) in plan view that is slightly larger and longer than the optical waveguide member 83. The housing portion 93 of the housing main body 89 is formed so as to be surrounded by the substrate 91, the side walls 92 and 92, and the sleeve mounting portions 94 and 94.

  The sleeve mounting portions 94 and 94 are portions for detachably mounting optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the sleeve mounting portions 94 and 94 are formed on each end side of the housing 84, respectively. Yes. The sleeve mounting portions 94 and 94 are formed so that the optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101 can be positioned.

  The optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101 after being positioned by the sleeve attaching portions 94 and 94 are pressed by the lid 90 fitted to the housing body 89 so that they do not fall off unless the lid 90 is removed. It has become.

  The lower hood portions 96 and 96 are arranged and formed so as to be continuous with the sleeve attaching portions 94 and 94, respectively. The lower hood portions 96 and 96 are formed in accordance with the shape of the optical connectors 113 and 114 (optical coupling partners) (the same applies to upper hood portions 98 and 98 described later. The hood portions 98 and 98 constitute the hood portion described in the claims).

  The lid 90 is formed with side walls 97, 97 that overlap the side walls 92, 92 of the housing body 89 and upper hood portions 98, 98 that face the lower hood portions 96, 96 of the housing body 89. . The upper hood portions 98 and 98 are formed with lock portions 99 and 99 for the optical connectors 113 and 114 (optical coupling partners). Locking arms 121 and 121 described later formed on the optical connectors 113 and 114 are engaged with the lock portions 99 and 99, respectively.

  The connector 85 is a member for optically coupling the end portion of the optical waveguide 86 and the end portion (ferrule 115 described later) of each optical communication path while aligning, and an optical axis alignment sleeve 100, a sleeve mounting portion 94, a lower hood portion 96, and an upper hood portion 98 (configuration on the optical connector 113 side). The connector 85 includes an optical axis alignment sleeve 101, a sleeve mounting portion 94, a lower hood portion 96, and an upper hood portion 98 (configuration on the optical connector 114 side). A spacing member 102 is provided between the optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101.

  The optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101 include sleeve bodies 103 and 104 made of synthetic resin and sleeve covers 105 and 105, respectively. Further, the optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101 are divided structures (fixing means for retrofitting) in which the end portions of the optical waveguide member 83 are sandwiched and fixed using the sleeve main bodies 103 and 104 and the sleeve covers 105 and 105. have.

  The sleeve main bodies 103 and 104 include sleeves 106 and 107 having the same function as the above-described sleeve 44 (see FIG. 6), and bases 108 and 108 on which the ends of the optical waveguide member 83 are placed. In this embodiment, the sleeve 106 is formed to correspond to four cores. That is, four through holes into which ferrules 115 to be described later are respectively inserted are formed side by side. On the other hand, the sleeve 107 is formed to correspond to one core in this embodiment.

  Sleeves 106 and 107 are coupled to the bases 108 and 108, respectively. A plurality of mounting and fixing recesses 109 are formed on the mounting surface of the bases 108 and 108 with respect to the end of the optical waveguide member 83. The corresponding protrusions 88 of the optical waveguide member 83 are inserted into the plurality of recesses 109. A pair of locking portions 110 and 110 for the sleeve covers 105 and 105 are formed on the sides of the bases 108 and 108.

  The sleeve covers 105 and 105 are plate-like members that cover the end portions of the optical waveguide member 83 placed on the bases 108 and 108, and the side portions thereof have a pair of locking portions 110 and 110. A pair of flexible locking pieces 111 and 111 to be locked are formed. Further, buffer members 112, 112 are provided on the surface facing the end of the optical waveguide member 83. The buffer members 112 and 112 are made of rubber, foamed resin, gel, or the like, and can fix the position of the optical waveguide 86. In addition, the buffer members 112 and 112 of this embodiment are set to have a thickness of about 50% of the original thickness when fitted (assumed as an example).

  The spacing member 102 is a member for preventing the optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101 from moving in the proximity direction, and in the present embodiment, a rod-shaped member as shown in the figure is used. The spacing member 102 is provided to alleviate stress concentration on the optical waveguide member 83 when the connectors are connected by optical connectors 113 and 114 (optical coupling partners) described later.

  The optical connectors 113 and 114 are optical coupling partners with respect to the optical junction block 81 and are provided at the end portions of the respective optical communication paths. The optical connector 113 is set for four cores, and the optical connector 114 is set for one core. A ferrule 115 provided at the end of the optical fiber 82, housings 116 and 117 for slidably housing the ferrule 115, and a housing 116 117, spring caps 118 and 119 fitted to the rear part of 117, and a spring 120 inserted through the optical fiber 82 and interposed between the ferrule 115 and the spring caps 118 and 119.

  The housings 116 and 117 are formed so as to be fitted into the fitting spaces 95 and 95 of the optical junction block 81. Locking arms 121 and 121 are formed on the upper portions of the housings 116 and 117. The specific functions of the optical connectors 113 and 114 are disclosed in Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 5-10626 previously proposed by the applicant of the present application.

  In the above configuration, the optical junction block 81 according to the present invention is assembled, for example, through the following procedure. First, an operation of preparing the optical waveguide member 83, the casing 84, the optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101, and the interval holding member 102 that meet specifications is performed. Next, the end portion of the optical waveguide member 83 is placed on the bases 108 and 108 of the sleeve main bodies 103 and 104 and sandwiched between the sleeve covers 105 and 105, so that the optical waveguide member 83 and the optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101 are connected. Perform the work of fixing it later.

  Subsequently, the optical axis alignment sleeves 100 and 101 are respectively attached to the sleeve attaching portions 94 and 94 of the housing 84, and the optical waveguide member 83 is accommodated in the accommodating portion 93 together with the spacing member 102. Finally, the lid 90 is fitted into the housing main body 89 to cover the optical waveguide member 83. Thereby, a series of assembly is completed and the optical junction block 81 is formed.

  As described above with reference to FIGS. 23 to 27, the optical junction block 81 can optically couple with the optical connectors 113 and 114 via the connector 85. The same effects as those of the optical junction block 21 can be obtained. That is, it is possible to provide an optical junction block that is easy to align and optically couple and that does not require an expensive device for aligning and optically coupling.

  Subsequently, still another embodiment of the optical junction block according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 28 is a perspective view showing still another embodiment, FIG. 29 is an exploded perspective view of an optical junction block, FIGS. 30 to 34 are explanatory views of a method of manufacturing an optical waveguide member, FIG. 35 alignment and optical coupling. 36 is a sectional view for explaining alignment and optical coupling, and FIG. 37 is a plan view showing another example of the optical waveguide member.

  In FIG. 28 to FIG. 37, the optical junction block denoted by reference numeral 131 is interposed between the ends of the optical communication paths of the optical fiber 82 (for example, having a core diameter of about 200 μm or more) as in the above-described embodiment. Therefore, the optical signal transmitted through the optical fiber 82 is relayed and / or optically demultiplexed / multiplexed. In other words, the optical junction block 131 includes an optical waveguide member 132, a housing 133, and a plurality of connectors 134 straddling them. Hereinafter, each component will be described in detail.

  In the present embodiment, the optical waveguide member 132 is a plate-like member having a rectangular shape (rectangular shape) in plan view as shown in the figure, and may be used for optical multiplexing (relay and / or optical demultiplexing). A plurality of optical waveguides 135 and a substrate portion 136 on which the plurality of optical waveguides 135 are routed. The optical waveguide member 132 is formed so as to be detachable from the housing 133.

  The optical waveguide 135 is routed to the substrate unit 136 along a desired path. The substrate portion 136 includes an under clad 137 and an over clad 138 having a refractive index lower than that of the optical waveguide 135. A plurality of optical axis alignment guide grooves 139 are formed at the surface end of the underclad 137.

  The end face (end portion) of the optical waveguide 135 is routed so as to be exposed from the optical axis alignment guide groove 139. Concave portions 140 and 140 for positioning and fixing to the housing 133 are formed on the back surface of the underclad 137.

  As shown in FIG. 37, the optical waveguide member 132 of the present embodiment selects an optical waveguide member according to the specification from a plurality of types of optical waveguide members (132a to 132c) having different paths of the optical waveguide 135. It has become.

  Here, the manufacturing method of the optical waveguide member 132 will be described. The optical waveguide member 132 is manufactured through the following first to fourth steps in order. The manufacturing method described below has the advantage of good mass productivity.

  In the first step, an operation of forming a plate-like underclad 137 having an optical waveguide groove 141 and an optical axis alignment guide groove 139 is performed (see FIG. 30). The underclad 137 is made of core materials (acrylic UV curable resin: NORAND NOA61n = 1.56, acrylic UV curable resin: NORAND NOA68n = 1.54, epoxy UV curable resin: EMI OPTOCAST 3506n = 1.56. Or the like) (PMMA: Mitsubishi Rayon Acrypet n = 1.49, PP: Sumitomo Mitsui Polypro n = 1.49, etc.).

  In the second step, the work of filling the mirror-finished block material 142 in the optical axis alignment guide groove 139 is performed (see FIG. 31). Further, the work of pressing the block material 142 against the end of the optical waveguide groove 141 is performed.

  In the third step, an operation of filling the optical waveguide groove 141 (see FIG. 32) with the core material 143 is performed (see FIG. 33). When the filled core material 143 is cured, the optical waveguide 135 is formed in the optical waveguide groove 141.

  In the fourth step, an operation of forming a layer of the over clad 138 on the optical waveguide 135 and the under clad 137 is performed (see FIG. 34). The layer of the over clad 138 is a synthetic resin material (acrylic UV curable resin: NORA NOA65n = 1.52, acrylic UV curable resin: Kyoritsu Chemical Industry XVL-90n = lower refractive index than the core material 143. 1.52, epoxy-based UV curable resin: OPTOCAST 3505n = 1.52, etc., manufactured by EMI).

  The optical axis alignment guide groove 139 is formed in accordance with the size of the ferrule 115 as shown in FIGS. 35 and 36 (the ferrule 115 is formed in the optical axis alignment guide groove 139). When inserted, alignment and optical coupling are easily performed).

  The casing 133 is made of synthetic resin, and includes a casing main body 144 that houses the optical waveguide member 132, and a lid 145 that fits the casing main body 144 and covers the optical waveguide member 132 with an appropriate interval. It is prepared for.

  The housing main body 144 includes a substrate 146 having a flat surface, a pair of side walls 147 and 147 along the optical signal transmission direction, and convex portions 148 and 148 for positioning and fixing the optical waveguide member 132. Yes. The housing body 144 has lower hood portions 150 and 150 for forming fitting spaces 149 and 149.

  In this embodiment, the housing main body 144 is formed in a rectangular shape (rectangular shape) in plan view that is slightly larger and longer than the optical waveguide member 132. The housing main body 144 is formed with a storage portion 151 surrounded by the substrate 146, the side walls 147 and 147, and the convex portions 148 and 148.

  The lower hood parts 150 and 150 are arranged and formed so as to be continuous with the convex parts 148 and 148, respectively. The lower hood portions 150 and 150 are formed in accordance with the shape of the optical connectors 113 and 114 (the same applies to the upper hood portions 153 and 153 described later. The lower hood portions 150 and 150 and the upper hood portions 153 and 153) And the hood portion described in the claims.

  The lid 145 is formed with side walls 152, 152 that overlap the side walls 147, 147 of the housing body 144, and upper hood portions 153, 153 that face the lower hood portions 150, 150 of the housing body 144. . Lock portions 154 and 154 for the optical connectors 113 and 114 are formed in the upper hood portions 153 and 153. The locking arms 154 and 154 engage with the locking arms 121 and 121 of the optical connectors 113 and 114, respectively.

  The connector 134 is a member for optically coupling the end portion of the optical waveguide 135 and the end portion (ferrule 115) of each optical communication path while aligning, and a plurality of guides for optical axis alignment A groove 139, lower hood portions 150 and 150, and upper hood portions 153 and 153 are provided.

  In the above configuration, the optical junction block 131 according to the present invention is assembled through the following procedure, for example. First, an operation of preparing the optical waveguide member 132 and the housing 133 that meet the specifications is performed. Subsequently, the concave portions 140 and 140 of the optical waveguide member 132 are inserted into the convex portions 148 and 148 of the casing 133 and the optical waveguide member 132 is attached to the casing main body 144. Finally, the lid 145 is fitted to the housing main body 144 to cover the optical waveguide member 132. Thereby, a series of assembly is completed and the optical junction block 131 is formed.

  As described above with reference to FIGS. 28 to 37, the optical junction block 131 can optically couple with the optical connectors 113 and 114 via the connector 134. The same effects as those of the optical junction block 21 can be obtained. That is, it is possible to provide an optical junction block that is easy to align and optically couple and that does not require an expensive device for aligning and optically coupling.

  In addition, it goes without saying that the present invention can be variously modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

It is a disassembled perspective view which shows one Embodiment of the optical junction block by this invention. It is explanatory drawing of an optical waveguide member, (a) is a perspective view, (b) is principal part sectional drawing. It is a disassembled perspective view of a housing | casing. It is a perspective view (perspective view from the front side) of a connector. It is a perspective view (perspective view from the back side) of a connector. It is sectional drawing of a connector. It is a perspective view of a shutter. It is a perspective view of an optical junction block. It is principal part sectional drawing of an optical junction block. FIG. 10 is an enlarged view in a circle A in FIG. 9. It is explanatory drawing of an optical coupling part, (a) is sectional drawing of the sleeve of a connector, (b) is a front view of a sleeve. It is a top view which shows the other example of an optical waveguide member, (a) is a plan view of an optical demultiplexing type, (b) is a plan view of an optical multiplexing type, (c) is a plan view of a bus type. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows other one Embodiment of the optical junction block by this invention. It is explanatory drawing of an optical waveguide member, (a) is a perspective view, (b) is principal part sectional drawing. It is a disassembled perspective view of a housing | casing. It is a disassembled perspective view of the sleeve for optical axis alignment. It is a perspective view (perspective view from the back side) of an upper housing. It is a perspective view (perspective view from the front side) of a cap. It is a perspective view (perspective view from the back side) of a cap. It is a perspective view of an optical junction block. It is principal part sectional drawing of an optical junction block. It is an enlarged view in the circle B of FIG. It is a perspective view which shows other one Embodiment of the optical junction block by this invention. It is a disassembled perspective view of an optical junction block. It is a disassembled perspective view of an optical connector (four cores). It is a disassembled perspective view of an optical connector (single core). It is sectional drawing of an optical junction block. It is a perspective view which shows other one Embodiment of the optical junction block by this invention. It is a disassembled perspective view of an optical junction block. It is explanatory drawing of the manufacturing method (1st process) of an optical waveguide member. It is explanatory drawing of the manufacturing method (2nd process) of an optical waveguide member. It is explanatory drawing of the manufacturing method (3rd process: before core material filling) of an optical waveguide member. It is explanatory drawing of the manufacturing method (3rd process: after core material hardening) of an optical waveguide member. It is explanatory drawing of the manufacturing method (4th process) of an optical waveguide member. It is a top view (except an over clad layer) for explaining alignment and optical coupling. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating alignment and optical coupling. It is a top view which shows the other example of an optical waveguide member, (a) is a plan view of an optical demultiplexing type, (b) is a plan view of an optical multiplexing type, (c) is a plan view of a bus type. It is a perspective view of the optical waveguide module of a prior art example.

Explanation of symbols

21 …………………… Optical Junction Block 22 …………………… Optical Waveguide Member 23 …………………… Case 24 …………………… Connector 25 ………… ………… Shutter 26 …………………… Optical waveguide 27 …………………… Sheet 28 …………………… Convex 29 …………………… Case body 30 …………………… Cover 31 …………………… Substrate 32 …………………… Side wall 33 …………………… Storage section 34 …………………… Connector mounting portion 35 ……………… Flexible locking portion 36 …………………… Guide rail 37 …………………… Locking protrusion 38 …………………… Recess 39 …………………… Connector housing 40 …………………… Fitting space 41 …………………… Rail 42 …………………… Slit 43 ……………… ...... Lock part 44 ………………… Sleeve 45 …………………… Die hole 46 …………………… Rail 51 …………………… Optical Junction Block 52 ………………… Optical waveguide member 53 …………………… Casing 54 …………………… Connector 54 a …………………… Optical axis alignment sleeve 55 …………………… Cap 56 …………………… Optical waveguide 57 …………………… Sheet portion 58 …………………… Convex portion 59 …………………… Through hole 60 ……………… …… Case body 61 …………………… Cover 62 …………………… Substrate 63 …………………… Side wall 64 …………………… Storage section 65 ………… …………… Sleeve mounting portion 66 …………………… Fitting space 67 …………………… Lower hood portion 68 …………………… Flexible locking portion 69 ………… …………… Locking projection 70 ……… ………… Side wall 71 …………………… Upper hood portion 72 …………………… Lock portion 73 …………………… Upper housing 73a ………………… Recess 74… .................. Lower housing 75 ................................. Pin-shaped member 76 ........................... Hole 77 ........................... Sleeves 77 a, 77 b ............ Split sleeve 78 …………………… Slit 81 …………………… Optical Junction Block 82 …………………… Optical Fiber 83 …………………… Optical Waveguide Member 84 ……………… ……… Case 85 …………………… Connector 86 …………………… Optical waveguide 88 …………………… Protrusion 93 …………………… Storage section 94 …… ……………… Sleeve mounting portion 95 …………………… Fitting space 96 …………………… Lower hood portion 98 …………………… Upper hood portion 9 9 .................. Lock section 100, 101 ......... Optical axis alignment sleeve 102 ............... Interval holding member 106, 107 ......... Sleeve 109 ............... Recess 112 ......... Buffering member 113, 114 .... Optical connector 115 ........... Ferrule 131 ............ Optical junction block 132 ............... Optical waveguide member 133. ………………… Case 134 ………………… Connector 135 ………………… Optical Waveguide 137 ………………… Under Clad 138 ………………… Over Clad 139… ……………… Optical axis alignment guide groove 141 …………………… Optical waveguide groove 142 ………………… Block material 143 ………………… Core material 149 …………… …… Fitting space 150 …………………… Lower hood part 151 …………………… It paid 153 ..................... on the hood portion 154 ..................... lock portion

Claims (3)

An optical junction block for relaying and / or optical demultiplexing or optical multiplexing of transmitted optical signals,
An optical waveguide member having a plurality of optical waveguides for relay and / or optical demultiplexing or optical multiplexing;
A housing for housing the optical waveguide member;
For optical axis alignment provided across the casing and the optical waveguide member, positioned after the optical waveguide member, positioned by the casing, and aligned by insertion of the end of the optical communication path A sleeve and a hood provided in the casing and having a fitting space are formed, and optically coupled while aligning the end of the optical waveguide and the end of each optical communication path Multiple connectors to be
Comprising
A mounting or fixing protrusion or a pin-shaped member is provided on one of the optical waveguide member or the optical axis alignment sleeve, and a mounting or fixing recess is inserted into the other of the optical waveguide member or the optical axis alignment sleeve. Alternatively, an optical junction block provided with a through hole. The optical junction block according to claim 1,
An optical junction block further comprising an interval holding member that prevents movement of the optical axis alignment sleeves that form a pair in the proximity direction. The optical junction block according to claim 1,
An optical junction block characterized by further comprising a cap that replaces the optical axis alignment sleeve and prevents optical coupling.

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