JP4968677B2 - Optical path conversion element - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical path conversion element for interposing optical parts and making optical connections between optical parts, which have different optical paths.

For example, with respect to an optical connector, an optical fiber array, an optical switch, and other optical components, when performing optical connection in which the optical path direction is changed, a method of converting the optical path by causing a mirror or a prism to face the tip of the optical fiber (Patent Document 1) 2 etc.) is common.
Further, as in Patent Document 3 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-191564 optical path conversion connector), the optical path is formed by shaving the core to form a mirror surface at the orthogonal portions of the mutually orthogonal cores embedded in the clad made of resin, and by total reflection. There is also an optical path conversion connector for conversion. In this case, a halogenated glass is used as the cladding, and the core is formed as a change in refractive index due to laser light irradiation. This optical path conversion connector is structured to be positioned by a pin fitting method with respect to two directions perpendicular to the counterpart optical connector direction and the optical component direction, and the structure of the connector connecting portion is a so-called MT connector.
As another method, as in Patent Document 4 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-246827, an optical path converter), a polymer flexible optical waveguide that is curved in an arc from the input end face to the output end face is formed on the substrate. Some of them have the same structure. In this case, the polymer flexible optical waveguide is manufactured by being sandwiched between two substrates each having a curved convex surface and a concave surface made of, for example, acrylic resin, and fixed with a UV adhesive. The base body is provided with fitting pins that are fitted into mating fitting pin holes in two perpendicular directions.
JP-A-2-33121 JP-A-9-26525 JP 2004-191564 A FIGS. 5 and 7 of JP-A-10-246827.

Optical devices and optical components are always required to be compact, but the same applies to optical connections with different optical paths, such as with optical connectors, optical fiber arrays, and optical switches. In addition, it is desirable that the downsizing can be easily realized.
By the way, although a fitting pin positioning method is widely adopted as a positioning method with respect to a connection partner in an optical connector or the like, it is necessary to perform optical path conversion in an optical wiring path in which an optical component of this fitting pin positioning method is used. Even in such a case, a method for easily reducing the size is desired.

However, it is difficult to achieve a sufficiently compact size with a method using optical components such as a mirror and a prism as in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2.
In addition, the method of forming the built-in mirror as in Patent Document 3 can achieve compactness, but the process of forming the built-in mirror is complicated and cannot be said to be a simple method.
Further, as in Patent Document 4, the method of forming the polymer flexible optical waveguide on the substrate can realize compactness, but it is a method of forming the polymer flexible optical waveguide, which is not necessarily general and simple. I can't say that.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and when it is necessary to perform optical path conversion in an optical wiring path in which a fitting pin positioning type optical component is used, an optical path conversion element that can be easily made compact. The purpose is to provide.

The invention of claim 1 for solving the above-mentioned problem is an optical path conversion element for interposing between a plurality of optical components having different optical paths to perform optical connection between both optical components,
The block-like element body which is a main component of the optical path conversion element, having a plurality of connection having a connection end face to be connected to the optical component, respectively, at least two connections in the device body, one connection An optical path conversion unit made of an optical fiber having a bent portion from the connection end surface of one part toward the connection end surface of the other connection unit, and the optical path conversion unit includes an optical fiber hole whose end is opened in the connection end surface, and the light An optical fiber housed in a fiber hole, wherein the optical fiber hole is only a straight portion, and the bent portion is exposed at an opening formed at an outer corner portion of the abutting portion of the two connection portions in the element body . It is characterized by that.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the optical path conversion element according to the first aspect, the element body includes two connecting portions, and the two connecting portions are orthogonal to each other and have an L-shaped cross-sectional shape. To do.

Claim 3 is the optical path conversion element of claim 1 ,
The element body is composed of three connecting portions, and the first connecting portion and the third connecting portion have a T-shaped cross-sectional shape that divides at right angles from the second connecting portion. Item 5. The optical path conversion element according to Item 1 .

Claim 4 is the optical path conversion element according to claim 2, characterized in that said first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is one that was fabricated joined separately.

Claim 5, in claim 3 an optical path conversion element, wherein the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion and the third connection portion is manufactured separately, and the first connecting portion and a third connecting portion and the second connection It is characterized by being joined to the part.

Claim 6 is the optical path conversion element according to claim 1, that makes bending angle between the two one connecting portion side of the direction and the other connection side of the direction of the optical fiber at the connecting portion is 90 ° Features.

Claim 7 is the optical path conversion element according to claim 3 or 5, element body, and having an optical fiber that would unsuitable from the connection end face of the first connecting portion to the connection end face of the third connecting portion.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the optical path conversion element according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the positioning method for the optical component in the at least one connection portion is a fitting pin positioning method.

According to the optical path conversion element of the first to eighth aspects of the present invention, it is possible to realize a sufficiently compact size as compared with a method using an optical component such as a mirror or a prism, and to realize a space saving in the optical device.
And, the block-shaped element body having an optical fiber hole is bent inside the element body and the resin molding so that the bent optical fiber holes and insert the intense optical fiber may be bonded, in Patent Document 3 Thus, compared with the method of forming a core as a refractive index change by laser beam irradiation inside the clad material, the manufacturing is extremely simple.
Further, as compared with a method of forming a polymer flexible optical waveguide on a substrate as in Patent Document 4, it is general and simple.
Further, as in claim 8, the remaining connecting portions except for some of the plurality of connecting portions have fitting pin holes and are positioned by the fitting pin positioning method with respect to the connection counterpart side. Since the connection is possible, the connection work with the counterpart optical component is also simple.
Moreover, since the connector connection of a fitting pin positioning system is possible, it can apply to the optical wiring system | strain by a very general MT connector, and versatility is high and its utility value is high.

Also, since only the straight portion of the optical fiber is inserted through the optical fiber hole, the bent portion of the optical fiber is exposed at the opening formed in the element body, and there is no bent portion of the optical fiber hole. Compared with the case where the small-diameter mold for molding is straight, and the entire optical fiber passage is an optical fiber hole, the structure of the resin mold becomes simple and the resin molding of the element body It becomes extremely easy. Since the small-diameter mold for forming the optical fiber hole is linear, drawing of the small-diameter mold after the filling resin is cured is smooth, and high molding accuracy can be realized.

  Hereinafter, an optical path conversion element embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an optical path conversion element 15 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 shows a procedure for performing optical connection by converting the optical path of the fitting pin positioning system, that is, the optical path between two optical components 1 and 2 whose connection directions intersect at a right angle by the optical path conversion element 15 of FIG. FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG.
The fitting pin positioning method is an optical waveguide of an optical connection object by a fitting pin protruding from one side of the optical connection object and a fitting pin hole provided on the other side for receiving the fitting pin. This is a known method for positioning the end face.
The fitting pin is an example of a fitting protrusion that protrudes from one side, and the fitting pin hole is an example of a fitting receiving part formed on the other side that receives the fitting protrusion. It is. Accordingly, in the present invention, terms such as a fitting pin and a fitting pin hole are used for convenience, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.
The optical path conversion element 15 has a resin element body 16 having a block shape with an L-shaped cross section. The element body 16 includes a first connection part 11 and a second connection part 12.
The first connection portion 11 has a connection end surface 11 b on one end surface.
The connection end surface 11b is a plane perpendicular to the optical connection direction. However, in general, the shape of the connection end face is not limited to a vertical plane so that the angle of the connection end face of the optical connector with respect to the optical connection direction is not necessarily perpendicular to the optical connection direction.
It may be a plane that intersects at an angle other than perpendicular to the optical connection direction.
It may be a combination of a plurality of planes that intersect at a plurality of angles with respect to the optical connection direction.
A slightly curved surface may be used instead of a flat surface.
Alternatively, a combination of the above may be used.
The said Example about a connection end surface is common in this invention.
In addition, as the resin material, a thermoplastic resin such as PPS or an epoxy resin can be appropriately selected and used, and this is common in the present invention.
A first optical component (hereinafter sometimes referred to as an optical connector in the present invention) 1 is connected to the connection end surface 11b by using a positioning method using a fitting pin.
More specifically, the connection end face 1b of the first optical connector 1 is straight in the connection direction on both sides of a plurality of optical fiber holes 17 in which optical fibers are inserted, which are arranged side by side. Two formed fitting pin holes 1a and 1a are provided.
The connection end face 1b of the element body is provided with fitting pin holes 1a, 1a formed straight in the connection direction on both sides of the plurality of optical fiber holes into which the optical fibers are inserted.
For example, straight fitting pins 5 and 5 are inserted into the fitting pin holes 1 a and 1 a on the optical connector 1 side, and the tips of the fitting pins 5 and 5 are inserted into the fitting pin holes 11 and 11 of the element body 11. By doing so, the fitting pin is bridged between the element body 15 and the connection end faces 11b, 1b of the optical connector 1.
When the element main body and the optical connector are pressed in a state where the fitting pin is stretched, the optical fiber end surface 1b of the first optical connector 1 and the optical fiber end surface 11b of the element main body 16 face each other and are positioned and connected.
On the other hand, the second connection portion 12 has a second connection end face 12b to which the second optical connector is connected.
The structure for positioning and connecting the second optical connector and the second connection end face 12b is the same as the structure of the first optical connector and the second connection end face.
Each of the first connection part 11 and the second connection part 12 has a generally thin rectangular parallelepiped shape.
The element body 16 is in the form of a block having an L-shaped cross section as described above in such a manner that the both 11 and 12 are connected at right angles.
In the illustrated first connection portion 11, a notch 11 c for locking the optical path conversion element 15 to another member is formed.
Then, a plurality of optical fibers 14 that are bent from the connection end surface 11b of the first connection portion 11 toward the connection end surface 12b of the second connection portion 12 to change the optical path by 90 ° are provided.
In the optical fiber 14 of this embodiment, the portion on the first connecting portion 11 side and the portion on the second connecting portion 12 side are each linear (the straight portions are indicated by 14a and 14c), and the first connecting portion 11 and the first connecting portion 11 2 A bent portion 14b is formed in the vicinity of the abutting portion with the connecting portion 12.
The optical fiber 14 has an optical fiber hole 17 (that is, a hole corresponding to the 14a, 14b, and 14c) 17 formed in the element body 16 having a 90 ° bent portion, and the optical fiber is inserted into the optical fiber hole 17 and fixed thereto. It is configured. The optical fiber hole 17 is generally composed of a straight portion 17a, a bent portion 17b, and a straight portion 17c.
As the optical fiber used here, it is possible to use an optical fiber that has less bending loss than a standard optical fiber and has little deterioration over time even when left in a bent state.
By using such an optical fiber with little bending loss, a small optical path conversion element with a small bending radius can be realized.
For example, a core assist type optical fiber or a photonic crystal fiber can be employed.
The core-assisted optical fiber is a structure that confines light by forming holes around the core, and the photonic crystal fiber further increases the number of holes in the core-assisted optical fiber, like a crystal lattice This optical fiber has a significantly reduced bending loss by forming photonic band gaps with well-ordered holes and devising the size, number, spacing, and arrangement of holes.
Alternatively, a fiber in which the refractive index profile of the optical fiber is a W type or a trench type can be used.
Furthermore, as the optical fiber having a small bending loss, for example, a silica-based optical fiber having a core diameter represented by FutureGuide SR15 (Fujikura trademark, model number) smaller than a standard single mode optical fiber can be used.
This optical fiber can be defined to have a bending loss of 0.5 dB or less when it is wound 10 times with a transmission wavelength of 1.55 μm and a diameter of 10 mm.
However, it is also possible to use an optical fiber with reduced bending loss by changing the refractive index distribution of the optical fiber cross section.
Furthermore, a PCF (plastic clad optical fiber) in which a quartz core is coated with plastic as a clad can also be used.
Further, instead of the quartz optical fiber, a polymer resin optical fiber may be employed.

In the optical path conversion element 15 of this embodiment, the two optical connectors 1 and 2 to be optically connected by the optical path conversion element 15 substantially correspond to the optical ferrule used in the F12 type multi-core optical fiber connector of JIS C 5981. This is the case of a so-called MT connector.
Therefore, it can be said that the vicinity of the connection end faces 11b and 12b of the first connection portion 11 and the second connection portion 12 has a structure that can generally connect the MT connector.
In the present invention, unless otherwise described, a precision positioning method using a fitting pin using an MT connector is commonly used as a structure for positioning and connecting an optical connector.

As shown in FIG. 2, the optical path between the first and second optical connectors 1, 2, that is, the connection direction intersects at a right angle. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the first connection portion 11.
When the first optical connector 1 is connected to the first connection part 11 side of the optical path conversion element 15 and the second optical connector 2 is connected to the second connection part 12, the optical path conversion element 15 causes the optical paths to be perpendicular to each other. Optical path conversion between the two optical connectors (optical connectors) 1 and 2 is performed.
When the connection principle is based on PC connection, an MPO optical connector structure that can maintain the contact pressure between optical fibers can be employed.
For example, although not particularly illustrated, an MPO optical connector plug in which the first optical connector 1 is accommodated in an MPO connector housing is used.
The MPO optical connector is standardized by JIS C 5982. The part of the first connection portion 11 of the optical path conversion element 15 is also an MPO optical connector plug housed in the MPO optical connector housing.
These MPO optical connector plugs are positioned by an MPO adapter (not shown) to connect the first optical connector 1 and the first connecting portion 11.
Alternatively, any of the connecting portions can be attached to the MPO optical receptacle.
That is, the optical connector side is an MPO optical connector plug, and the connection portion of the optical path conversion element is housed in the MPO receptacle.
However, there is a case where a well-known optical connector housing structure other than the MPO optical connector structure is used as the fixing structure of the connection portion.
Note that the directions of the optical paths may intersect at an angle other than a right angle.
The number of connecting cores between the optical path conversion element and the optical connector, that is, the number of optical fibers is not limited to a plurality, and includes a single core. These are common to each embodiment of the present invention.

According to the optical path conversion element 15 described above, it is possible to realize a sufficiently compact size as compared with a method using optical components such as a mirror and a prism, and it is possible to realize space saving and cost reduction in the optical device.
In addition, since a block-shaped element body 16 having an optical fiber hole 17 with a bent portion may be molded with resin, and an optical fiber (optical waveguide) 14 may be inserted into the optical fiber hole 17 and bonded and fixed. Thus, compared with the method of forming a core as a refractive index change by laser beam irradiation inside the clad material, the manufacturing is extremely simple. Further, since an optical fiber is used as the bent optical waveguide in the element body 16, it is general and simple as compared with a method in which a polymer flexible optical waveguide is formed on a substrate as in Patent Document 4.
In addition, since both sides (the first connecting portion 11 and the second connecting portion 12) have a structure that can be connected to the connector by the fitting pin positioning method, it can be applied to an optical wiring system using a very general MT connector. High versatility and high utility value.

In the above-described embodiment, both the first connection portion 11 and the second connection portion 12 have a structure capable of connector connection by the fitting pin positioning method, but the fitting pin positioning method is only one. Can do. Although illustration in this case is omitted, in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, for example, the fitting pin hole 12 a of the second connection portion 12 does not exist.
In addition, a positioning method different from the fitting pin positioning method can be adopted for both the first connection part 11 and the second connection part 12. Although illustration in this case is also omitted, in FIGS. 1 to 3, the fitting pin hole 11 a of the first connection part 11 and the fitting pin hole 12 a of the second connection part 12 do not exist.

4 and 5 show an optical path conversion element 25 of the second embodiment.
The optical path conversion element of the second embodiment includes a first connection portion 21, a second connection portion 22, and a third connection portion 23, and has connection end faces in three directions. A first optical connector, a second optical connector, and a third optical connector are connected to each connection end face.
The optical path conversion element 25 is interposed between the first optical connector 1 and the third optical connector 3 and the second optical connector 2 ′ having a different optical path with respect to the two optical connectors 1 and 3, This is an optical path conversion element for optical connection between the first and third optical connectors 1 and 3 and the second optical connector 2 ′.
The element body 26 has a block shape with a T-shaped cross section as a whole, and has a first connection portion and a third connection portion on the left and right sides in the drawing, and is formed at an intermediate position between the first connection portion and the second connection portion. The tip of the convex portion becomes the second connection portion 22.
The first connection end surface 21b of the first connection portion has two fitting pin holes 21a in the paper surface direction, and the first optical connector is positioned and connected to the first connection end surface.
On the opposite side of the element main body 26 from the first connection end surface, there is a third connection end surface of a third connection portion having two fitting pin holes 23a in the direction of the paper surface. The connector is positioned and connected.
The first connection end face 21b and the third connection end face 23b are arranged horizontally, and are in the middle of a straight line connecting the positions of the first connection end face and the second connection end face, in a direction perpendicular to the straight line. It has the 2nd connection end surface 22b which protrudes.
The second connection end surface 22b has two fitting pin holes 22a in the paper surface direction, and the two optical connectors 2 'are positioned and connected.
In FIG. 5, the plane directions of the first connection end face 21b and the third connection end face 23b are substantially parallel. On the other hand, the orientation of the plane of the second connection end face 22b intersects the orientation of the other connection end faces perpendicularly.
In the present embodiment, the optical fiber (optical waveguide) 24 is directed from the connection end surface 21b of the first connection portion 21 and the connection end surface 23b of the third connection portion 23 to the connection end surface 22b of the second connection portion 22 through the bent portion 24b. I have.
The straight portions of both optical fibers 24 are indicated by 24a and 24c. An optical fiber hole for inserting the optical fiber 24 is indicated by 27. The optical fiber hole 27 includes a straight portion 27a, a bent portion 27b, and a straight portion 27c.
The second optical connector 2 ′ in this embodiment is not simply a one-dimensional MT connector having one horizontal row of optical fibers, but a two-dimensional array of multi-fiber optical connectors having two optical fiber rows. is there.
It is common in the present invention that the optical fiber array on the connection end face is a two-dimensional type and the optical fiber array of the multi-fiber optical connector to be connected may be a two-dimensional type.

  The optical path conversion element 25 of this embodiment is suitable when the second optical connector 2 'is connected to a repeater.

In the above-described embodiment, all of the first connection portion 21, the second connection portion 22, and the third connection portion 23 have a structure that allows connector connection by a fitting pin positioning method. Only a part of the scheme can be used. Although illustration in this case is omitted, in FIGS. 4 and 5, for example, the structure in which the fitting pin hole 23 a of the third connection portion 23 does not exist, or the fitting pin hole of the first connection portion 21 and the third connection portion 23. The structure is such that 21a and 23a do not exist.
Further, any of the first connection part 21, the second connection part 22, and the third connection part 23 can employ a positioning method different from the fitting pin positioning method. Although illustration in this case is also omitted, in FIGS. 4 and 5, the fitting pin holes 21 a, 22 a, and 23 a of the first connection portion 21, the second connection portion 22, and the third connection portion 23 are not present. Become.

6 to 8 show the optical path conversion element 35 of the third embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the optical path conversion element, FIG. 7 is a side view of the optical path conversion element, and FIG.
The optical path conversion element 35 has a Y-branch shape as a whole, and the element main body 36 has a first connection portion 31 and a third connection portion 33 that are divided into two branches from the second connection portion 32.
The element body 36 has connection end faces in three directions.
A first optical connector, a second optical connector, and a third optical connector are connected to each connection end face.
The connection end surface 31b of the first connection portion 31 has two fitting pin holes 31a, and the first optical connector is positioned and connected.
The connection end face 33b of the third connection portion 33 has two fitting pin holes 33a, and the third optical connector is positioned and connected.
The connection end face 32b of the second connection portion 32 has two fitting pin holes 32a and is connected to the second optical connector.
An optical fiber (optical waveguide) 34 that is resistant to bending from the connection end surface 31b and the connection end surface 33b to the connection end surface 32b via the bent portion 34b is provided.
The straight portions of both optical fibers 34 are indicated by 34a and 34c. An optical fiber hole for inserting the optical fiber 34 is indicated by 37. The optical fiber hole 37 includes a straight portion 37a, a bent portion 37b, and a straight portion 37c.

In the above-described embodiment, all of the first connection portion 31, the second connection portion 22, and the third connection portion 23 have a structure that allows connector connection by a fitting pin positioning method. Only a part of the scheme can be used. Although illustration in this case is omitted, in FIGS. 6 to 8, for example, the structure in which the fitting pin hole 31 a of the first connection portion 31 does not exist, or the fitting pin hole of the first connection portion 31 and the third connection portion 33. The structure is such that 31a and 33a do not exist.
Further, any of the first connection part 31, the second connection part 32, and the third connection part 33 can employ a positioning method different from the fitting pin positioning method. Although illustration in this case is also omitted, in FIGS. 6 to 8, there is a structure in which each of the fitting pin holes 31 a, 32 a, 33 a of the first connection portion 31, the second connection portion 32, and the third connection portion 33 does not exist. Become.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the optical path conversion element 45 of the fourth embodiment.
The optical path conversion element 45 is obtained by separately manufacturing and joining the first connection portion 11 and the second connection portion 12 of the element body 16 in the optical path conversion element 15 of FIG.
In other words, the element main body 46 of the optical path conversion element 45 has a structure in which the first connection piece 41 and the second connection piece 42 are manufactured separately, and both 41 and 42 are joined with an adhesive, for example.
Reference numerals 41a and 42a denote fitting pin holes, 47 denotes an optical fiber hole, and 44 denotes an optical fiber (optical waveguide) that is inserted and fixed in the optical fiber hole 47 and is resistant to bending. The optical fiber hole 47 includes a straight portion 47a, a bent portion 47b, and a straight portion 47c.
In this case, the first connection piece 41 has a structure having a simple straight optical fiber hole without the bent portion 44b. The straight portions of the optical fiber 44 are indicated by 44a and 44c. The division makes it easy to manufacture.

In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, it can be set as the structure where the fitting pin hole 42a of the 2nd connection part 42 does not exist in FIG.
Also, although not shown in the figure, in FIG. 9, the fitting pin hole 41a of the first connection part 41 and the fitting pin hole 42a of the second connection part 42 may not be present.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the optical path conversion element 55 of the fifth embodiment.
The optical path conversion element 55 is obtained by separately manufacturing and joining the first connection part 21, the second connection part 22, and the third connection part 23 of the element body 26 in the optical path conversion element 25 of FIG.
That is, in the element main body 56 of the optical path conversion element 55, the first connection piece 51, the second connection piece 52, and the third connection piece 53 are formed separately, and the first connection piece 51 is formed on the second connection piece 52. For example, the connection piece 51 and the third connection piece 53 are joined together with an adhesive.
Reference numerals 51a, 52a and 53a (53a not shown) are fitting pin holes, 57 is an optical fiber hole, and 54 is an optical fiber (optical waveguide) which is inserted into and fixed to the optical fiber hole 57 and is resistant to bending. The optical fiber hole 57 includes a straight portion 57a, a bent portion 57b, and a straight portion 57c.
In this case, the 1st connection part piece 51 and the 3rd connection part piece 53 are structures with a simple linear optical fiber hole without the bending part 54b. Linear portions of the optical fiber 54 are indicated by 54a and 54c. Also in this case, it becomes easy to manufacture by dividing.

In addition, although illustration is omitted, in FIG. 10, for example, the structure in which the fitting pin hole 53 a of the third connection portion 53 does not exist, or the fitting pin holes 51 a and 53 a of the first connection portion 51 and the third connection portion 53 are provided. A structure that does not exist can be used.
Similarly, although not shown in the figure, the fitting pin holes 51a, 52a, and 53a of the first connection portion 51, the second connection portion 52, and the third connection portion 53 are not shown in FIG. it can.

FIG. 11 shows an optical path conversion element 75 of the sixth embodiment.
This optical path changing element 75 is an optical fiber directed from the connecting end face 21b of the first connecting portion 21 to the connecting end face 23b of the third connecting portion 23 in the element main body 26 in the optical path changing element 25 of the embodiment of FIGS. This is a configuration in which (optical waveguide) is additionally formed. That is, the optical path conversion element 75 includes an optical fiber (optical waveguide) 24 ′ that goes straight from the connection end surface 21b of the first connection portion 21 ′ to the connection end surface 23b of the third connection portion 23 ′. This is an added configuration. An optical fiber hole through which the optical fiber 24 'is inserted is indicated by 27'.
In other words, the first connecting portion 21 ′ and the third connecting portion 23 ′ in this embodiment have a two-dimensional optical fiber array.
The second connection portion 22 of the optical path conversion element 75 is the same as that shown in FIGS. In addition, the same parts as those in FIGS. 4 and 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

The optical fiber array of the first optical connector 1 ′ to which the first connection part 21 ′ of the optical path conversion element 75 is connected and the third optical connector 3 ′ to which the third connection part 23 ′ is connected is a two-dimensional array. It is. That is, the first optical connector 1 ′ has optical fibers 1c and 1c ′ arranged in two rows, and the third optical connector 3 ′ also has optical fibers 3c and 3c ′ arranged in two rows.
This optical path conversion element 75 is suitable when there is an optical wiring that connects directly from the first optical connector 1 ′ to the third optical connector 3 ′ without a bent portion.
When the optical fiber array is two-dimensionally arrayed, the positions of the fitting pin holes and the optical fiber array are not limited to the intermediate positions of the optical fiber array as in the embodiment.

In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the structure in which the fitting pin hole 23a of 3rd connection part 23 'does not exist in FIG. 11, or the fitting pin hole 21a of 1st connection part 21' and 3rd connection part 23 ', for example , 23a does not exist.
Although not shown in the figure, the fitting pin holes 21a, 22a, and 23a of the first connection portion 21 ′, the second connection portion 22 ′, and the third connection portion 23 ′ may not be present. it can.

FIG. 12 shows an optical path conversion element 85 of the seventh embodiment.
This optical path conversion element 85 is formed by forming three connection portions 31, 32, 33 having a Y-shaped cross section of the element body 36 at an equal angle of 120 ° in the optical path conversion element 35 of the embodiment of FIGS. In this configuration, an optical fiber (optical waveguide) from the first connection portion 31 toward the third connection portion 33 is added.
That is, the optical path conversion element 85 has three connection parts of the first connection part 31 ′, the second connection part 32, and the third connection part 33 ′ having a Y-shaped cross section of the element body 36 ′ at an equal angle of 120 °. And an optical fiber (optical waveguide) 34 ′ extending from the first connection portion 31 ′ to the third connection portion 33 ′ is added.
In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 31 ′ and the third connecting portion 33 ′ are two-dimensional optical fiber arrays, and the optical connectors connected to these are optical connectors having a two-dimensional optical fiber array. is there.
The second connection portion 32 of the optical path conversion element 85 is the same as that shown in FIGS. In addition, the same parts as those in FIGS.

In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the structure in which the fitting pin hole 31a of 1st connection part 31 'does not exist in FIG. 12, for example, or the fitting pin hole 31a of 1st connection part 31' and 3rd connection part 33 ' , 33a does not exist.
Also, although not shown in the figure, in FIG. 11, there is a structure in which each of the fitting pin holes 31a, 32a, 33a of the first connection portion 31 ′, the second connection portion 32 ′, and the third connection portion 33 ′ does not exist. can do.

The above-described embodiment has a configuration having two connection portions or three connection portions, but may have a configuration having four or more connection portions. That is, as in the optical path conversion element 95 of the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 13, at least some of the optical connectors have optical paths different from each other and are interposed between a plurality of fitting pin positioning type optical connectors. The present invention can be applied to an optical path conversion element for optical connection between connectors.
In this optical path conversion element 95 of this embodiment, the element main body 96 has a cross-shaped block shape, and has four connection parts of a first connection part 91, a second connection part 92, a third connection part 93, and a fourth connection part 94. It is the composition which has.
Each connecting portion 91, 92, 93, 94 has fitting pin holes 91a, 92a, 93a, 94a, and an optical fiber 97 extending from the connecting end surface 91b of the first connecting portion 91 toward the connecting end surface 92b of the second connecting portion 92, and Connection of the optical fiber 97 and the fourth connection portion 94 from the connection end surface 93b of the third connection portion 93 toward the connection end surface 92b of the second connection portion 92 has the optical fiber 97 toward the connection end surface 94b of the fourth connection portion 94. It has the optical fiber 97 which goes to the end surface 94b. A bent portion of each optical fiber 97 is indicated by 97b.

In the above-described embodiment, all of the first connection portion 91, the second connection portion 92, the third connection portion 93, and the fourth connection portion 94 have a structure capable of connector connection by a fitting pin positioning method. However, only a part of the fitting pin positioning method can be used. Although illustration in this case is omitted, in FIG. 13, for example, a structure in which the fitting pin hole 91a of the first connection portion 91 does not exist, or each fitting pin hole 91a of the first connection portion 91 and the second connection portion 92, A structure in which 92a does not exist, or a structure in which the fitting pin holes 91a, 92a, and 93a of the first connection part 91, the second connection part 92, and the third connection part 93 do not exist.
Further, any of the first connecting portion 91, the second connecting portion 92, the third connecting portion 93, and the first connecting portion 94 can employ a positioning method different from the fitting pin positioning method. Although illustration in this case is also omitted, in FIG. 13, each of the fitting pin holes 91a, 92a, 93a, 94a of the first connection portion 91, the second connection portion 92, the third connection portion 93, and the fourth connection portion 94 is any. The structure does not exist.

14 and 15 show an optical path conversion element 105 of the ninth embodiment. 14 is a perspective view of the optical path conversion element 105, FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG. 14, and FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional end surface taken along the line CC of FIG.
The optical path conversion element 105 is configured such that the bent portion 14b of the optical fiber 14 is exposed to the outside in the optical path conversion element 15 of FIGS. Specifically, an opening 108 having a concave bottom surface is formed at an inner corner portion of the abutting portion (a portion bent at a right angle) between the first connection portion 11 and the second connection portion 12 in the element body 106, and the concave shape A groove 107b ′ for passing the optical fiber 14 is formed on the bottom surface.
The optical fiber 14 has a straight optical fiber hole 107a that reaches the opening 108 from one connection end face 11b, a groove 107b 'on the concave bottom surface of the opening 108, and the opening 108 from the other connection end face 12b. It consists of a straight optical fiber hole 107c.
The optical fiber is inserted into the optical fiber hole 107a from one connection end face 11b, and the optical fiber 14 coming out of the opening 108 is slid along the groove 107b ′ to bend its tip by 90 degrees, and the other end is connected to the connection end face. It is inserted into the optical fiber hole 107c toward 12b. Since the groove 107b ′ is formed in the opening portion 108, it is easy to insert the optical fiber 14 that has come out of the opening portion 108 from one optical fiber hole 107a into the other optical fiber hole 107c. Further, since the groove 107b ′ is formed on the concave bottom surface, it is easy to slide the optical fiber 14 along the groove 107b ′.
After the insertion of the optical fiber 14 is completed, the opening 108 is filled with an appropriate adhesive. However, since the optical fiber 14 only needs to be fixed, it is not always necessary to fill the entire opening 108.

When the element body 16 having the optical fiber hole 17 with the bent portion 17b is resin-molded like the optical path changing element 15 in FIGS. 1 to 3, a metal thin gold having a diameter of approximately 125 μm and bent 90 degrees from the middle. I need a mold. However, since it is very difficult to pull out a 90-degree bent metal mold from a resin molded product, it is very difficult to mold with a mold.
However, in this optical path conversion element 105, only the straight portions 14a and 14c of the optical fiber 14 are holes (optical fiber holes 107a and 107c), and the bent portion 14b of the optical fiber 14 is a groove exposed at the opening 108. 107b ′, and the bent portion of the optical fiber hole does not exist, so that the resin molding of the element body 106 becomes extremely easy as compared with the case where the entire optical fiber passage is the optical fiber hole.

An example of a mold for resin-molding the element main body 106 of the optical path conversion element 105 is shown in FIG. The mold 200 includes a first mold 201 and a second mold 202 that form a cavity 206 corresponding to the outer shape of the element body 106, a slide core 203 corresponding to the opening 108 and the groove 107b ′, and a straight line. And linear thin molds 204 and 205 for forming optical fiber holes 107a and 107c. The slide core 203 is slidably fitted into an opening 202b formed in the second mold 202. A plurality of ridges 203a corresponding to the optical fiber groove 107b ′ are formed at the tip of the slide core 203. The small-diameter molds 204 and 205 are held by an appropriate means. For example, an engagement notch can be formed in the slide core 203, and the tip of the pin can be engaged with the engagement notch.
In this mold 200, since the pins 204 and 205 for forming the optical fiber holes are linear, the drawing of the small-diameter molds 204 and 205 after curing of the filling resin is smooth, and high molding accuracy can be realized. .
Further, when the element becomes small, it is extremely difficult to manufacture a mold for forming an optical fiber hole having a bent portion, but a portion corresponding to the bent portion of the optical fiber 14 is a groove 107b ′ of the opening 108. Since it is only necessary to provide the slide core 203 of the illustrated example, it is not necessary to use a special mold, so that inexpensive resin molding is possible. However, the groove is not necessarily formed because it is a structure for guiding the optical fiber. It may be a simple concave bottom without a groove.

In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, it can be set as the structure where the fitting pin hole 12a of the 2nd connection part 12 does not exist in FIG. 14, FIG.
Moreover, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted similarly, it can be set as the structure where neither the fitting pin hole 11a of the 1st connection part 11 nor the fitting pin hole 12a of the 2nd connection part 12 exists in FIG. 14, FIG.

16 and 17 show an optical path conversion element 65 of the tenth embodiment.
The optical path conversion element 65 is also configured such that the bent portion 14b of the optical fiber 14 is exposed to the outside in the optical path conversion element 15 of FIGS. 1 to 3. In the optical path conversion element 65, the first connection portion 61 is used. An opening 68 of a box-shaped space is formed at the outer corner of the abutting portion between the second connection portion 62 and the bent portion 14b of the optical fiber (optical waveguide) 14 in the element body 66 at the opening 68. It is exposed in a manner that floats in the air. The path of the optical fiber 14 includes a straight optical fiber hole 67a reaching the opening 68 from one connection end face 61b, a space of the opening 68, and a straight optical fiber reaching the opening 68 from the other connection end face 62b. It consists of a hole 67c. A fitting pin hole of the first connecting portion 61 is indicated by 61a, and a fitting pin hole of the second connecting portion 62 is indicated by 62a.
The opening 68 exposes the bent portion of the optical fiber, and the ease of inserting the optical fiber by bending it can be improved.
In addition, as described above, the structure of the resin molding die is simplified, the resin molding of the element body is extremely easy, and high molding accuracy can be realized.

In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, it can be set as the structure where the fitting pin hole 62a of the 2nd connection part 62 does not exist in FIG. 16, FIG.
Moreover, although illustration is omitted, it is possible to have a structure in which neither the fitting pin hole 61a of the first connecting portion 61 nor the fitting pin hole 62a of the second connecting portion 62 exists in FIGS.

FIG. 18 is a sectional view showing the optical path conversion element 115 of the eleventh embodiment.
The optical path conversion element 115 is also configured such that the bent portion 14b of the optical fiber 14 is exposed to the outside in the optical path conversion element 15 of FIGS. An opening 118 having a convex bottom surface is formed at an outer corner portion of a contact portion (a portion bent at a right angle) between the first connection portion 11 and the second connection portion 12, and a groove through which the optical fiber 14 is passed through the convex bottom surface. 107b ".
The path of the optical fiber 14 includes a straight optical fiber hole 107a that reaches the opening 118 from one connection end face 11b, a groove 107b ″ on the convex bottom surface of the opening 118, and an opening 118 from the other connection end face 12b. It consists of a linear optical fiber hole 107c that reaches.
The optical fiber is inserted into the optical fiber hole 107a from one connection end face 11b, and the optical fiber 14 coming out of the opening 118 is bent along the groove 107b ″ by bending its tip by 90 degrees, and the other is connected to the connection end face 12b. It is inserted into the optical fiber hole 107c that faces.

  An example of a mold for resin-molding the element body 116 of the optical path conversion element 115 is shown in FIG. The mold 210 includes a first mold 211 and a second mold 212 that form a cavity 216 corresponding to the outer shape of the element body 116, a slide core 213 corresponding to the opening 118 and the groove 107b ″, a straight line The straight core dies 214 and 215 for forming the optical fiber holes 107a and 107c are formed so that the slide core 213 is slidably fitted into the opening 211b formed in the first die 211. A plurality of ridges 213a corresponding to the optical fiber groove 107b ″ are formed at the tip of the slide core 213.

In FIG. 18, for example, a structure in which the fitting pin hole of the second connection portion 12 does not exist can be employed.
Moreover, in FIG. 18, it can be set as the structure where neither the fitting pin hole of the 1st connection part 11 nor the fitting pin hole of the 2nd connection part 12 exists.

FIG. 19 shows an optical path conversion element 125 of the twelfth embodiment.
This optical path conversion element 125 is the optical path conversion element 105 of FIGS. 14 and 15, in which the first connection portion 11 and the second connection portion 12 are manufactured separately and joined. That is, the optical path conversion element 125 has an element body 126 divided into a first connection piece 11A and a second connection piece 12A. Therefore, the opening 128 where the bent portion 14b of the optical fiber 14 exists is formed by a recess on the first connection piece 11A side and a recess on the second connection piece 12A side.

In FIG. 19, for example, a structure in which the fitting pin hole of the second connection piece 12A does not exist can be employed.
Moreover, in FIG. 19, it can be set as the structure where neither the fitting pin hole of 11 A of 1st connection parts nor the fitting pin hole of 12 A of 2nd connection part exists.

FIG. 20 shows an optical path conversion element 135 of the thirteenth embodiment.
This optical path conversion element 135 is the optical path conversion element 115 of FIG. 18, in which the first connection portion 11 and the second connection portion 12 are separately manufactured and joined. That is, the optical path conversion element 135 has an element body 136 divided into a first connection piece 11B and a second connection piece 12B. The opening 138 in which the bent portion 14b of the optical fiber 14 exists is formed on the second connecting piece 12B side in the illustrated example.

In FIG. 20, for example, a structure in which the fitting pin hole of the second connection piece 12B does not exist can be employed.
Moreover, in FIG. 20, it can be set as the structure where neither the fitting pin hole of the 1st connection part 11B and the fitting pin hole of the 2nd connection part piece 12B exist.

FIG. 21 shows an optical path conversion element 145 of the fourteenth embodiment.
The optical path conversion element 145 is configured such that the bent portion 24b of the optical fiber 24 is exposed to the outside in the optical path conversion element 25 of FIGS. Specifically, in the element body 146, the inner corner portion of the abutting portion between the first connecting portion 21 and the second connecting portion 22 and the inner corner portion of the abutting portion of the third connecting portion 23 and the second connecting portion 22 are used. Each of the openings 148 has a concave bottom surface, and a groove 117b ′ through which the optical fiber 24 is passed is formed in the concave bottom surface.
The path of the optical fiber 24 includes a straight optical fiber hole 117 a that reaches the opening 148 on each side from the connection end faces 21 b and 23 b of the first connection portion 21 or the third connection portion 23, and the openings 148. The groove 117b ′ has a concave bottom surface, and two linear rows of optical fiber holes 117c that reach the opening 148 from the connection end surface 22b of the second connection portion 22.

  An example of the metal mold | die which resin-molds the element main body 146 of said optical path changing element 145 is shown in FIG. The mold 220 includes a first mold 221 and a second mold 222 that form a cavity 226 corresponding to the outer shape of the element body 146, and left and right slide cores 223 corresponding to the opening 148 and the groove 117b ′. , And linear linear molds 224 and 225 for forming linear optical fiber holes 117a and 117c. The slide core 223 is slidably fitted into an opening 222b formed in the second mold 222. A plurality of ridges 223 a corresponding to the optical fiber grooves 117 b ′ are formed at the tip of the slide core 223.

In FIG. 21, for example, a structure in which the fitting pin hole of the third connection part 23 does not exist, or a structure in which the fitting pin hole of the first connection part 21 and the third connection part 23 does not exist can be employed.
Moreover, it can be set as the structure where each fitting pin hole of the 1st connection part 21, the 2nd connection part 22, and the 3rd connection part 23 does not exist.

FIG. 22 shows an optical path conversion element 155 of the fifteenth embodiment.
The optical path conversion element 155 is also configured such that the bent portion 24b of the optical fiber 24 is exposed to the outside in the optical path conversion element 25 of FIGS. 4 and 5. In this optical path conversion element 155, 2 Opening portions 158 having convex bottom surfaces on the left and right sides of the flat bottom surface at the center are formed below the connecting portion 22, and grooves 117b "for passing the optical fiber 24 are formed on the left and right convex bottom surfaces.
The path of the optical fiber 24 includes a straight optical fiber hole 117a reaching the central opening 158 from the connection end faces 21b and 23b of the first connection part 21 or the third connection part 23, and left and right concave bottom surfaces of the opening 158. Groove 117b "and two straight rows of optical fiber holes 117c reaching the flat bottom surface of the opening 158 from the connection end surface 22b of the second connection portion 22.

  An example of the metal mold | die which resin-molds the element main body 156 of said optical path changing element 155 is shown in FIG. The mold 230 includes a first mold 231 and a second mold 232 that form a cavity 236 corresponding to the outer shape of the element body 156, a central slide core 233 corresponding to the opening 158 and the groove 117b ″, And linear linear dies 234 and 235 for forming linear optical fiber holes 117a and 117c, and a slide core 233 is slidably fitted into an opening 231b formed in the first mold 231. A plurality of ridges 233a corresponding to the optical fiber groove 107b ″ are formed at the tip of the slide core 233.

In FIG. 22, for example, a structure in which the fitting pin hole of the third connection part 23 does not exist, or a structure in which the fitting pin hole of the first connection part 21 and the third connection part 23 does not exist can be employed.
Moreover, it can be set as the structure where each fitting pin hole of the 1st connection part 21, the 2nd connection part 22, and the 3rd connection part 23 does not exist.

All of the above-described embodiments are cases where the optical waveguide is an optical fiber. However, the optical waveguide is not limited to the optical fiber, and is similar to the method of FIG. By forming the core as a refractive index change by light irradiation, a core having a 90 ° bent portion can be formed inside the element body which is a clad, thereby forming an optical waveguide.
Further, as shown in FIG. 1 of Patent Document 4, a method is adopted in which a polymer flexible optical waveguide is sandwiched between two bases each having a curved convex surface and a concave surface made of, for example, acrylic resin and fixed with a UV adhesive. Also good. Other methods can be used as appropriate.
Further, in the embodiment, the mating optical component of each connection portion is an optical connector, but the mating optical component is not limited to an optical connector, but an optical fiber array of a fitting pin positioning method, an optical waveguide, and a pin slide method. Various connection structures that require precise optical connection, such as optical switches, can be used.
When a silica-based optical fiber is used as an optical fiber inserted into the optical fiber hole, a resin-coated fiber may be incorporated, or a bare fiber may be incorporated. Alternatively, only a necessary part may be resin-coated.
In each of the above-described embodiments, the description has been made along the method using the fitting pin as the precision positioning means of the optical connection portion with the optical component.
However, as described above, the adoption of the fitting pin positioning method can be appropriately selected. When the connection of the fitting pin positioning method is used only in some optical connection parts, or not used in all connection parts, it may be used in all connection parts, and each is applied to each of the above embodiments. .

It is a perspective view of the optical path conversion element of 1st Example of this invention. It is a side view explaining the point which performs the optical path conversion optical connection between two optical connectors with the optical path conversion element of FIG. It is AA sectional drawing of FIG. It is a perspective view of the optical path conversion element of 2nd Example of this invention. It is a side view of the optical path conversion element of FIG. It is a perspective view of the optical path changing element of 3rd Example of this invention. It is a side view of the optical path conversion element of FIG. FIG. 8 is a bottom view of FIG. 7. It is a perspective view of the optical path conversion element of 4th Example of this invention. It is a perspective view of the optical path changing element of 5th Example of this invention. It is a side view explaining the point which performs the optical path conversion optical connection between three optical connectors with the optical path conversion element of 6th Example of this invention. It is a side view of the optical path changing element of 7th Example of this invention. It is a side view of the optical path conversion element of 8th Example of this invention. It is a perspective view of the optical path conversion element of 9th Example of this invention. (A) is BB sectional drawing in FIG. 14, (b) is the CC sectional end view expanded in (a). It is a perspective view of the optical path conversion element of 10th Example of this invention. . It is DD sectional drawing of the optical path changing element of FIG. The optical path conversion element of 11th Example of this invention is shown, (a) is sectional drawing of an optical path conversion element, (b) is the EE cut | disconnected end elevation of (a). It is sectional drawing of the optical path changing element of 12th Example of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the optical path changing element of 13th Example of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the optical path changing element of 14th Example of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the optical path changing element of 15th Example of this invention. FIGS. 14A and 14B show an example of a mold for resin-molding the optical path conversion element shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, where FIG. FIG. FIG. 19 shows an example of a mold for resin-molding the optical path conversion element shown in FIG. 18, wherein (a) is a sectional view and (b) is an enlarged GG sectional view of the slide core in (a). It is sectional drawing which shows an example of the metal mold | die which resin-molds the optical path changing element shown in FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows an example of the metal mold | die which resin-molds the optical path changing element shown in FIG.

Explanation of symbols

1, 1 'first optical connector (optical component)
2, 2 'second optical connector (optical component)
3, 3 'Third optical connector (optical component)
1a, 2a, 2a ', 3a Fitting pin holes 1b, 2b, 2b', 3b Connection end faces 1c, 1c ', 2c, 2c', 3c, 3c 'Optical fibers 11, 21, 21', 31, 31 ', 41, 51, 61, 91 1st connection part 41, 51 1st connection part piece 12, 22, 32, 42, 52, 62, 92 2nd connection part 42, 52 2nd connection part piece 23, 23 ', 33 , 33 ′, 53, 93 Third connection portion 94 Fourth connection portions 11a, 21a, 31a, 41a, 51a, 61a, 91a (first connection portion) fitting pin holes 11b, 21b, 31b, 61b, 91b ( Connection end faces 11c, 21c (of the first connection part) Notches 12a, 22a, 32a, 42a, 52a, 62a, 92a (of the second connection part) fitting pin holes 12b, 22b, 32b, 62b, 92b (second connection portion) connection end faces 23a, 33 a, 53a, 93a (third connection portion) fitting pin holes 23b, 33b, 93b (third connection portion) connection end face 23c (third connection portion) notch 94a (fourth connection portion) fitting Pin hole 94b (4th connection part) connection end face 14, 24, 24 ', 34, 34', 44, 54, 97 Optical fiber (optical waveguide)
14a, 14c, 24a, 24c, 34a, 34c, 44a, 44c, 54a, 54c Linear portions 14b, 24b, 34b, 34b'44b, 54b, 97b Bending portions 15, 25, 35, 45, 55, 65, 75, 85, 95 Optical path conversion element 16, 26, 26 ', 36, 36', 46, 56, 66, 96 Element body 17, 27, 27 ', 37, 47, 57 Optical fiber holes 17a, 27a (on the element body) , 37a, 47a, 57a, 67a (of the optical fiber hole) Linear parts 17c, 27c, 37c, 47c, 57c, 67c (of the optical fiber hole) Linear parts 17b, 27b, 37b, 47b, 57b (of the optical fiber hole) Bending portion 105, 115, 125, 135, 145, 155 Optical path conversion element 106, 116, 126, 136, 146, 156 Element body 107a, 117a Linear optical fiber hole 10 c, 117c Straight optical fiber holes 107b ', 117b' grooves 107b ", 117b" (formed on the concave surface) grooves 68, 108, 118, 128, 138, 148, 158 openings 11A, 11B First connection piece 12A, 12B Second connection piece 200, 210, 220, 230 Mold 201, 211, 221, 231 First mold 202, 212, 222, 232 Second mold 203, 213 223, 233 Slide core 203a, 213a, 223a, 233a Convex 204, 205, 214, 215, 224, 225, 234, 235 Small diameter mold 206, 216, 226, 236 Cavity

Claims (8)

An optical path conversion element for interposing between a plurality of optical components having different optical paths to perform optical connection between both optical components,
The block-like element body which is a main component of the optical path conversion element, having a plurality of connection having a connection end face to be connected to the optical component, respectively, at least two connections in the device body, one connection An optical path conversion unit made of an optical fiber having a bent portion from the connection end surface of one part toward the connection end surface of the other connection unit, and the optical path conversion unit includes an optical fiber hole whose end is opened in the connection end surface, and the light An optical fiber housed in a fiber hole, wherein the optical fiber hole is only a straight portion, and the bent portion is exposed at an opening formed at an outer corner portion of the abutting portion of the two connection portions in the element body . An optical path conversion element characterized by that. 2. The optical path conversion element according to claim 1, wherein the element body is composed of two connecting portions, and the two connecting portions are orthogonal to each other and have an L-shaped cross-sectional shape. The element body is composed of three connecting portions, and the first connecting portion and the third connecting portion have a T-shaped cross-sectional shape that divides at right angles from the second connecting portion. Item 5. The optical path conversion element according to Item 1 . 3. The optical path conversion element according to claim 2, wherein the first connection portion and the second connection portion are manufactured separately and joined. Said the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion and the third connection portion is manufactured separately, those that are formed by joining the first connecting portion and a third connecting portion to the second connecting portion 4. The optical path conversion element according to claim 3, wherein Optical path converting element according to claim 1, wherein forming the bending angle between one connecting portion side of the direction and the other connection side of the direction of the optical fiber before Symbol two connections is characterized by a 90 °. The device body, the optical path conversion element according to claim 3 or 5, wherein further comprising an optical fiber will suited from the connection end face of the first connecting portion to the connection end face of the third connecting portion. The optical path conversion element according to claim 1, wherein the positioning method for the optical component in the at least one connection portion is a fitting pin positioning method.

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