JP5382940B2 - Optical receptacle module, method of manufacturing optical receptacle module, and method of blocking light leaking from optical receptacle module - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical receptacle module, a method for manufacturing the optical receptacle module, and a method for blocking leakage light from the optical receptacle module.

  In recent years, with the increase in the speed of optical communication and the like, the optical output of a semiconductor laser or an optical amplifier used for optical communication tends to be increased. The optical output is, for example, 100 mW or more, and may exceed 1 W. The light output having such a high output is required to be handled more safely.

  When high output light is transmitted from the connection end face side of the optical connector fitted to one side of the adapter to the optical connector side fitted to the other side of the adapter, the light receiving side When the optical connector is accidentally disconnected, there is a concern that light to be transmitted to the optical connector side leaks from the optical connector insertion port to the outside of the adapter.

  The same problem is also a concern when the optical connector fitted to the optical receptacle module housing is accidentally disconnected. In contrast, an adapter with a light-shielding shutter and an optical receptacle module with a light-shielding shutter that can prevent leakage of light transmitted toward the optical connector even when the optical connector is disconnected, and that are inexpensive and relatively easy to manufacture. Has been proposed.

  In the proposed optical receptacle module with a light-shielding shutter, etc., the adapter and the optical receptacle module have a cylindrical housing and a shutter plate having a rising portion that blocks light transmitted toward the optical connector insertion port side of the housing And have. When the optical connector is not fitted into the adapter, the rising portion of the shutter plate blocks light.

  For this reason, even if the optical connector is accidentally disconnected during optical communication, the light can be blocked by the shutter plate, so that it is possible to prevent light from leaking from the optical receptacle module or the like to some extent.

  The shutter plate is a substantially L-shaped plate including a rising plate and a bottom plate provided along the bottom outer wall of the housing. The shutter plate is sandwiched between a support plate having a bottom plate provided along the bottom outer wall of the housing and side plates rising from the bottom plate along both side walls of the housing, and a bottom outer wall of the housing. Secure with.

  In the proposed optical module receptacle with a light-shielding shutter and the like, the shutter plate is fixed to the housing in this way, so that the shutter plate and the support plate can be easily manufactured and attached, and the adapter with the light-shielding shutter and the light receptacle with the light-shielding shutter are provided. It is said that the module can be manufactured easily and with a high yield.

  The above-described optical receptacle module with a light-shielding shutter is disclosed in, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 below.

JP 2001-194562 A JP-A-3-132708

  However, in the conventional optical receptacle module with a light-shielding shutter, not only the number of parts increases but the structure becomes complicated, but there is still a concern that the output light leaks, so that light leakage can be prevented more reliably. In that sense, there was room for further improvement.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and is capable of preventing leakage of light with a simple structure, and a method for manufacturing the optical receptacle module, and blocking light leakage from the optical receptacle module. And to provide a method.

  The optical receptacle module according to the present invention includes a first fiber stub whose one end is gripped by the first sleeve and an optical receptacle module that is optically coupled to the inserted plug ferrule. And a second fiber stub having one end gripped by the first sleeve and the other end gripped by the second sleeve so as to be separated from the fiber stub.

  In the optical receptacle module according to the present invention, preferably, when the plug ferrule is inserted into the second sleeve, one end of the second fiber stub is in contact with the first fiber stub, The second sleeve slides in the insertion direction with respect to the first fiber stub together with the second fiber stub so that the other end abuts on the plug ferrule and optically couples.

  In the optical receptacle module according to the present invention, more preferably, when the plug ferrule is pulled out from the second sleeve, the second sleeve is separated from the first fiber stub so that the second sleeve is separated from the first fiber stub. Along with the second fiber stub, it slides in the pulling direction with respect to the first fiber stub.

  The optical receptacle module according to the present invention is more preferably characterized in that the frictional force between the plug ferrule and the second sleeve is larger than the frictional force between the first fiber stub and the first sleeve. To do.

  The optical receptacle module according to the present invention is more preferably characterized in that the second fiber stub is fixed to the second sleeve.

  The optical receptacle module according to the present invention is more preferably characterized in that the inner diameter of the first sleeve is larger than the inner diameter of the second sleeve.

  In the optical receptacle module according to the present invention, more preferably, the diameter of the first or second fiber stub at the portion gripped by the first sleeve is gripped by the second sleeve when the plug ferrule is inserted. It is characterized by being smaller than the diameter of the plug ferrule.

  In the optical receptacle module according to the present invention, more preferably, the sleeve is a precision sleeve or a split sleeve.

  Further, the optical receptacle module according to the present invention is more preferably characterized by including a photodiode that receives input light from the inserted plug ferrule.

  Further, the optical receptacle module according to the present invention is further characterized by including a laser diode that outputs light to the inserted plug ferrule.

  Further, in the optical receptacle module according to the present invention, more preferably, when the plug ferrule is not inserted, the separation distance between the first fiber stub and the second fiber stub is 1.0 mm to 1.5 mm. It is characterized by that.

  Further, in the optical receptacle module according to the present invention, it is further preferable that the leakage light intensity is reduced to 1/30 or less due to the separation between the first fiber stub and the second fiber stub when the plug ferrule is not inserted. Features.

  In the optical receptacle module according to the present invention, the pullout strength of the plug ferrule with respect to the second sleeve is preferably 500 g to 550 g, and the pullout strength of the first or second fiber stub with respect to the first sleeve is 200 g to 250 g. It is characterized by being.

  The optical receptacle module according to the present invention is more preferably characterized in that the first fiber stub and the first ferrule are fixed.

  A method for manufacturing an optical receptacle module according to the present invention is a method for manufacturing the optical receptacle module according to any one of the above, wherein the plug ferrule has a second sleeve corresponding to the optical output intensity of the optical receptacle module. The method includes a step of determining a slidable range of the second sleeve so as to adjust a distance between the first fiber stub and the second fiber stub when the fiber is pulled out from the inside.

  Also, the method for blocking the leakage light of the optical receptacle module according to the present invention is a method for blocking the leakage light of the optical receptacle module that is optically coupled to the inserted plug ferrule, one end of which is held by the first sleeve. A first fiber stub and a second fiber stub that is gripped by the second sleeve so as to be separated from the first fiber stub when the plug ferrule is not inserted, and the plug ferrule is inserted into the second sleeve The second sleeve has a step of sliding in the pulling direction together with the second fiber stub so that the first fiber stub is separated from the second fiber stub when being pulled out from the formed state. Features.

  Also, the method for blocking the leakage light of the optical receptacle module according to the present invention is a method for blocking the leakage light of the optical receptacle module that is optically coupled to the inserted plug ferrule, one end of which is held by the first sleeve. A first fiber stub and a second fiber stub that is gripped by the second sleeve so as to be separated from the first fiber stub when the plug ferrule is not inserted, from the state in which the plug ferrule is inserted The second sleeve slides with the second fiber stub in the pulling direction so that the first fiber stub and the second fiber stub are separated and the optical axes of the two fiber stubs are not the same when being pulled out. It has the process of rotating in the circumferential direction.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an optical receptacle module that can prevent leakage of light more reliably with a simple structure, a method of manufacturing the optical receptacle module, and a method of blocking leakage light of the optical receptacle module.

It is a conceptual diagram which illustrates typically the cross-sectional structure of the optical receptacle module concerning 1st embodiment. It is a conceptual diagram explaining the sleeve position of the state which pulled out the external line connector from the optical receptacle module. It is a conceptual diagram which illustrates typically the cross-sectional structure of the optical receptacle module concerning 2nd embodiment. It is a conceptual diagram which illustrates typically the cross-sectional structure of the optical receptacle module concerning 3rd embodiment. It is a conceptual diagram which illustrates typically the cross-sectional structure of the optical receptacle module concerning 4th embodiment. It is a figure which illustrates the variation which can be used for a sleeve. It is a conceptual diagram which illustrates typically the cross section of a common optical receptacle module. It is a flowchart explaining the characteristic process of the manufacturing method of an optical receptacle module. It is a conceptual diagram explaining the sleeve concerning 5th embodiment. It is a conceptual diagram explaining the optical receptacle module concerning 5th embodiment. It is a figure which illustrates the variation of a projection part notionally. It is a conceptual diagram explaining the variation of a rotation guide groove. It is a figure explaining eccentricity of the 1st fiber stub applicable to an optical receptacle module, and the 2nd fiber stub. It is a figure explaining the relationship between rotation angle (theta) of 2nd fiber stub, eccentric distance r, and distance r (theta) which a core moves by rotation. It is a flowchart explaining the outline | summary of the characteristic process about the manufacturing method of an optical receptacle module. It is a figure explaining the state by which the plug ferrule was inserted about the optical receptacle module concerning 6th Embodiment. It is a figure explaining the state by which the plug ferrule was extracted about the optical receptacle module concerning 6th Embodiment.

  The optical receptacle module described in the embodiment mediates optical coupling between the external line side and the first fiber stub when the external line side connector is inserted, and the first when the external line side connector is pulled out. A second fiber stub that is spaced apart from the fiber stub and releases optical coupling.

  In the optical receptacle module, when the outer line side connector is inserted, the sleeve slides in the insertion direction, so that the second fiber stub is in contact with the first fiber stub and the other end is on the outer line side. Abuts against the plug ferrule of the connector.

  In addition, when the outer line side connector is pulled out, the optical fiber module is separated from the first fiber stub by one end of the second fiber stub by sliding the sleeve in the pulling direction. When the second fiber stub is separated from the first fiber stub, an air layer gap exists on the optical axis, so that the light intensity leaking from the optical receptacle module to the outside thereof is significantly reduced. Can do.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram schematically illustrating a cross-sectional structure parallel to the optical axis of the optical receptacle module 100 (1) according to the first embodiment.

  In FIG. 1, an optical receptacle module 100 (1) includes a first fiber stub 20 having one end gripped by a sleeve 10 (1). Further, the optical receptacle module 100 (1) includes a second fiber stub 30 at a substantially central portion of the sleeve 10 (1).

The sleeve 10 (1) has a length L ₁ and is arranged in the housing 50 so as to be slidable in the optical axis direction within a sliding range of the length L. That is, the sliding distance that the sleeve 10 (1) slides is L ₂ (= L−L ₁ ).

  In FIG. 1, an external connector 60 is connected to the optical receptacle module 100 (1), and therefore the plug ferrule 40 is inserted into the sleeve 10 (1). As shown in FIG. 1, when the plug ferrule 40 is inserted into the sleeve 10 (1), the sleeve 10 (1) is inserted into the sleeve 10 (1) by the frictional force between the plug ferrule 40 and the sleeve 10 (1). Slide on the optical axis in the direction.

When the sleeve 10 (1) slides by the sliding distance L ₂ , the second fiber stub 30 comes into contact with the first fiber stub 20. Subsequently, the plug ferrule 40 and the second fiber stub 30 come into contact with each other when the plug ferrule 40 is further inserted into the sleeve 10 (1).

  Thereby, the optical receptacle module 100 (1) in the state shown in FIG. 1 sequentially outputs the optical output of the laser diode 80 to the half mirror 90, the first fiber stub 20, the second fiber stub 30, and the plug ferrule 40. To the external connector 60. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 70 denotes a photodiode for detecting received light intensity.

  In addition, the second fiber stub 30 is illustrated as being disposed at a substantially central portion of the sleeve 10 (1). A stub 30 may be arranged. However, the second fiber stub 30 is preferably disposed substantially at the center of the sleeve 10 (1) in the sense of enhancing durability against lateral loads including wiggle characteristics.

  FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the position of the sleeve 10 (1) in a state in which the external line connector 60 is pulled out from the optical receptacle module 100 (1). When the external connector 60 is pulled out from the optical receptacle module 100 (1), the plug ferrule 40 pulls out the sleeve 10 (1) on the optical axis by the frictional force between the plug ferrule 40 and the sleeve 10 (1). Slide in the direction.

Sleeve 10 (1) in response to the slides in the pulling direction by the sliding distance L _2, the second fiber stub 30 moves a distance L ₂ only withdrawal direction together with the sleeve 10 (1). Thus, the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30, and thus away by sliding distance L _2.

  The sleeve 10 (1) is prevented from sliding on the inner wall surface of the recess where the sleeve of the housing 50 is disposed, and stops at that position, that is, at the left end in the sliding range L in the drawing. Subsequently, the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out from the stopped sleeve 10 (1) by pulling out the external connector 60 from the optical receptacle module 100 (1).

As shown in FIG. 2, in a state where the external connector 60 is pulled out from the optical receptacle module 100 (1), a first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 is spaced sliding distance L _2. For this reason, the optical output of the laser diode 80 transmitted from the first fiber stub 20 to the second fiber stub 30 is significantly reduced. Therefore, the optical output leaking to the outside of the optical receptacle module 100 (1) through the second fiber stub 30 can be substantially blocked.

Here, when the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 are separated by 1.0 mm, that is, when the sliding distance L ₂ = 1.0 mm, the optical receptacle module 100 (1) is used. The light output is reduced by about 15 dB, and the light intensity is about 1/30.

Further, the optical receptacle module 100 (1) is used when the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 are separated by 1.5 mm, that is, when the sliding distance L ₂ = 1.5 mm. The optical output is reduced by about 20 dB, and the light intensity becomes about 1/100. Therefore, the optical receptacle module 100 (1) can substantially block the leaked light output to the outside that may cause adverse effects even when the external connector 60 is disconnected unexpectedly. is there.

(Second embodiment)
FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram schematically illustrating a cross-sectional structure parallel to the optical axis of the optical receptacle module 100 (2) according to the second embodiment. 3, parts corresponding to those in FIGS. 1 and 2 are denoted by the corresponding reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted here in order to avoid duplication of explanation.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in the sleeve 10 (2) of the optical receptacle module 100 (2), the inner diameter of the portion where the first fiber stub 20 is inserted is different from the inner diameter of the portion where the plug ferrule 40 is inserted. .

  That is, the inner diameter of the sleeve 10 (2) where the first fiber stub 20 is inserted is larger than the inner diameter of the sleeve 10 (2) where the plug ferrule 40 is inserted.

  By providing a difference in the inner diameter of the sleeve 10 (2) as described above, the sleeve 10 (2) can be used even when the first fiber stub 20 and the plug ferrule 40 have the same diameter. 20 and the plug ferrule 40 generate different frictional forces.

  In the optical receptacle module 100 (2) shown in FIG. 3, when the plug ferrule 40 is inserted into the sleeve 10 (2), a relatively large frictional force between the plug ferrule 40 and the sleeve 10 (2) causes the sleeve 10 ( 2) slides on the optical axis in the insertion direction of the plug ferrule 40.

When the sleeve 10 (2) slides by sliding distance L _2, the movement of the sleeve 10 (2) is blocked to the inner wall end recess is disposed sleeve, the second fiber stub 30 is first fiber Abuts the stub 20. Subsequently, the plug ferrule 40 and the second fiber stub 30 come into contact with each other when the plug ferrule 40 is further inserted into the sleeve 10 (2).

  As a result, the optical receptacle module 100 (2) outputs the optical output of the laser diode 80 through the half mirror 90, the first fiber stub 20, the second fiber stub 30, and the plug ferrule 40 in order. Can be communicated to.

  Further, when the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out from the optical receptacle module 100 (2), the plug ferrule 40 causes the sleeve 10 (2) to move due to a relatively large frictional force between the plug ferrule 40 and the sleeve 10 (2). Slide on the optical axis in the pulling direction.

Sleeve 10 (2) in response to sliding the drawing direction by sliding distance L _2, the second fiber stub 30 moves a distance L ₂ only withdrawal direction together with the sleeve 10 (2). Thus, the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30, and thus away by sliding distance L _2.

  Further, the sleeve 10 (2) is prevented from sliding on the inner wall surface of the recess where the sleeve of the housing 50 is disposed, and stops at that position, that is, the left end in the sliding range L in the drawing. Subsequently, by performing an operation of pulling out the plug ferrule 40 from the optical receptacle module 100 (2), the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out from the stopped sleeve 10 (2).

  Since the optical receptacle module 100 (2) has a difference in the inner diameter of the sleeve 10 (2), the pull-out strength between the sleeve 10 (2) and the plug ferrule 40 is less than that of the sleeve 10 (2). The pulling strength between the fiber stub 20 becomes larger. Accordingly, when the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out, the sleeve 10 (2) slides stably and well on the optical axis in the pulling direction, and accordingly, the second fiber stub 30 is more reliably connected. It can be separated from the first fiber stub 20.

  Here, the pullout strength of the plug ferrule 40 is generally determined in the standard to be in the range of 200 g to 600 g. For this reason, the optical receptacle module 100 (2) has a relatively large pull-out strength difference, that is, a difference in frictional force within the standard range, in compliance with the pull-out strength standard. It shall occur on both sides of 10 (2).

  In FIG. 3, a typical example in which the inner diameter of the sleeve 10 (2) gradually decreases (tapered) from the portion where the second fiber stub 30 is disposed toward one end where the plug ferrule 40 is inserted. Although shown, it is not limited to this. For example, a small step may be provided in the inner diameter of the sleeve 10 (2), and the inner diameter may be changed stepwise.

  In FIG. 3, the difference in the inner diameter of the sleeve 10 (2) is exaggerated and conceptually shown for explanation. However, as long as the sliding operation of the sleeve 10 (2) during the pulling-out operation described above causes a difference in frictional force that can reliably separate the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30. Therefore, it is preferable that the inner diameter difference is as small as possible. The inner diameter difference of the sleeve 10 (2) can be set to a difference within, for example, about several microns, and is preferably set to an inner diameter difference of about 1 micron.

(Third embodiment)
FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram schematically illustrating a cross-sectional structure parallel to the optical axis of the optical receptacle module 100 (3) according to the third embodiment. 4, portions corresponding to those in FIGS. 1 to 3 are denoted by corresponding reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted here in order to avoid duplication of description.

As shown in FIG. 4, in the optical receptacle module 100 (3), the diameter _{R 20} of the first fiber stub 20 (3) is smaller than the diameter _{R 40} of the plug ferrule 40 (3). That is, R ₄₀ > R ₂₀ is satisfied.

  For this reason, even if the inner diameter of the sleeve 10 (3) is constant and has no difference at both ends, the sleeve is more effective than the frictional force between the sleeve 10 (3) and the first fiber stub 20 (3). The frictional force between 10 (3) and the plug ferrule 40 (3) is greater. Therefore, when the plug ferrule 40 (3) is pulled out, the sleeve 10 (3) slides more reliably and stably on the optical axis in the pulling direction.

Accordingly, the second fiber stub 30 is, the first fiber stub 20 (3), will be separated by sliding distance L ₂ of the sleeve 10 (3), to effectively suppress the leakage of light output Can do. Since the operation of the sleeve 10 (3) in the optical receptacle module 100 (3) is the same as that in the first embodiment described above, the description thereof is omitted here to avoid duplication of explanation.

(Fourth embodiment)
FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram schematically illustrating a cross-sectional structure parallel to the optical axis of the optical receptacle module 100 (4) according to the fourth embodiment. In FIG. 5, parts corresponding to those in FIGS. 1 to 4 are denoted by the corresponding reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted here to avoid duplication of explanation.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the optical receptacle module 100 (4), the second fiber stub 30 (4) is fixed with the sleeve 10 (4) and the adhesive 35. For this reason, when the sleeve 10 (4) slides, the second fiber stub 30 (4) fixed to the sleeve 10 (4) moves more reliably together with the sleeve 10 (4). preferable.

  As understood from FIG. 5, when the sleeve 10 (4) slides to the first fiber stub 20 side to the limit position of the sliding range L, one end of the second fiber stub 30 (4). And the first fiber stub 20 abut.

  Subsequently, a plug ferrule (not shown) is further inserted deeply into the sleeve 10 (4), so that the plug ferrule contacts the other end of the second fiber stub 30 (4) in the sleeve 10 (4). , An optical coupling is formed.

On the other hand, when pulling out a plug ferrule (not shown), the sleeve 10 (4) and the second fiber stub 30 (4) fixed thereto are caused by the frictional force between the plug ferrule and the sleeve 10 (4). moves in the pull-out direction on the optical axis by sliding distance L _2. Thus, by the first fiber stub 20 and the one end of the second fiber stub 30 (4) is spaced by a distance L ₂ to release the optical coupling, Rezadaio from the optical receptacle module 100 (4) - de 80 It is possible to reliably suppress the leakage of light.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating variations that can be used for the sleeves 10 (1), 10 (2), 10 (3), and 10 (4). 6A is a cross-sectional view illustrating the precision sleeve 610 (1) in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis, and FIG. 6B illustrates the split sleeve 610 (2) in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. FIG. The split sleeve 610 (2) is preferable in the sense that it can more flexibly cope with plug ferrules of various thicknesses.

FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram schematically illustrating a cross section parallel to the optical axis of a general optical receptacle module 700. As can be understood from FIG. 7, in a general optical receptacle module 700, a sleeve 710 having a length L ₁ is fixed to the housing 750.

  For this reason, when the plug ferrule 740 is pulled out, there is a concern that the optical output of the laser diode 780 is emitted via the half mirror 790 and the fiber stub 720 through the fiber stub 720 and leaks. In FIG. 7, reference numeral 770 denotes a photodiode.

(Method for manufacturing optical receptacle module)
The characteristic steps of the manufacturing method of the optical receptacle module 100 (1), 100 (2), 100 (3), 100 (4) (hereinafter collectively referred to as the optical receptacle module 100) will be described with reference to FIG. . FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the characteristic steps of the method for manufacturing the optical receptacle module 100.

(Step S810)
It is determined whether the designed light output required for the optical receptacle module 100 is relatively large. If the designed optical output required for the optical receptacle module 100 is relatively large, the process proceeds to step S820. If the designed optical output required for the optical receptacle module 100 is not relatively large, the process proceeds to step S830.

(Step S820)
The sliding range L of the sleeve 10 is designed to be relatively large. That is, the length in the optical axis direction of the arrangement recess of the sleeve 10 provided in the housing 50 is made relatively large. As a result, the sleeve 10 can slide relatively large, so that the distance between the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 is relatively large. Therefore, even in the optical receptacle module 100 having a relatively large light output, it is possible to effectively and reliably reduce the leakage light output.

(Step S830)
The sliding range L of the sleeve 10 is designed to be relatively small. That is, the length of the arrangement recess of the sleeve 10 provided in the housing 50 in the optical axis direction is made relatively small. As a result, the sleeve 10 can be slid relatively small, so that the distance between the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 is relatively small. Accordingly, the optical receptacle module 100 that requires a relatively small light output can be reduced in size and weight while reducing the leaked light output as necessary and sufficiently.

(Step S840)
The sleeve placement recess having the length L in the optical axis direction designed in step S820 or step S830 described above is formed inside the housing 50.

(Step S850)
The sleeve 10 is disposed in the sleeve placement recess of the housing 50 formed in step S840.

  In each of the embodiments described above, the optical receptacle module 100 preferably has a pullout strength of the plug ferrule 40 with respect to the sleeve 10 of 500 g to 550 g, and a pullout strength of the first fiber stub 20 with respect to the sleeve 10 of 200 g to 250 g. On the other hand, the frictional force between the sleeve 10 and the sleeve placement recess inside the housing 50 is reduced as much as possible. Thereby, when the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out from the sleeve 10, the sleeve 10 can slide in the sleeve placement recess inside the housing 50 more smoothly.

  Since the optical receptacle module 100 is not provided with a light shielding plate or the like outside, there is no need to add any restrictions or conditions to the apparatus on which the optical receptacle module 100 is mounted. In addition, it is preferable that a device for mounting the optical receptacle module 100 does not need to be provided with a mechanism for shielding leaked light.

  Furthermore, since the optical receptacle module 100 can be the same in size and shape as a conventional optical module in appearance, it does not require a design change or the like on mounting, and is highly versatile. Further, since the optical receptacle module 100 does not include a light shielding shutter or a light shielding plate, even during maintenance such as cleaning of the second fiber stub 30, a cotton swab or the like can be easily inserted from the insertion opening of the plug ferrule 40 as in the past. Cleaning is possible.

(Fifth embodiment)
FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a sleeve 910 according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an optical receptacle module 100 (5) according to the fifth embodiment. In FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, portions corresponding to the above-described embodiments are denoted by corresponding reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, in the optical receptacle module 100 (5), when the sleeve 910 slides in the optical axis direction, the sleeve 910 rotates in the circumferential direction. For this reason, the sleeve 910 includes a rotation guide groove 920, and the housing 50 includes a protrusion 1915 corresponding to the rotation guide groove 920 in the sleeve placement recess.

  Thereby, in the optical receptacle module 100 (5), the ferrule 910 and the second fiber stub 30 move in the optical axis direction in different directions when the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out and when the plug ferrule 40 is inserted. While rotating in the circumferential direction. Thereby, when the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out, the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 are separated from each other, and the optical axis of the first fiber stub 20 and the light of the second fiber stub 30 are separated. The shaft is displaced by the rotation of the second fiber stub 30. Accordingly, in the optical receptacle module 100 (5), the optical coupling between the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 is more reliably blocked.

As can be understood from FIG. 9, the rotation guide groove 920 provided in the ferrule 910 has a length l in the optical axis direction. The length l of the rotating guide groove 920 is preferably equal to the sliding distance _{L 2} of the ferrule 910.

Further, the rotation guide groove 920 has a portion parallel to the optical axis having the lengths l ₁ and l ₃ at both end portions thereof and a length l ₂ in the optical axis direction that is not parallel to the optical axis but is effectively rotated. And a portion for guiding movement. In a portion parallel to the optical axis having the lengths l ₁ and l ₃ , even if the ferrule 910 slides, the ferrule 910 does not rotate. Thereby, the abrasion at the time of contact between the ferrule 910 and the inner wall of the housing 50 (the left end wall surface of the ferrule arrangement recess in FIG. 10) or between the second fiber stub 30 and the first fiber stub 20. Can be reduced. That is, typically, the parallel portion to the optical axis of the length l _1, and the second fiber stub 30 and the first fiber stub 20 is immediately before contact with the pivot stops.

Therefore, the optical receptacle module 100 (5) with improved durability and reliability can be obtained, which is preferable. A portion parallel to the optical axis of the lengths l ₁ and l ₃ may be provided only at one end of the rotation guide groove 920. In particular, in the sense of reducing wear during contact between the second fiber stub 30 and the first fiber stub 20, only the portion parallel to the optical axis of the length l ₁ on the external line connector 60 side is provided. It is good also as providing.

  FIG. 9B shows a ferrule 910 having two rotation guide grooves 920 (1) and 920 (2). Since the turning guide grooves 920 (1) and 920 (2) apply the force for rotating the ferrule 910 to the ferrule 910 from two places, the ferrule 910 rotates more stably and reliably. .

  As can be understood from FIG. 10, two protrusions 1915 (1) are formed on the inner wall of the ferrule arrangement recess of the housing 50 corresponding to the two rotation guide grooves 920 (1) and 920 (2). , 1915 (2). The two rotation guide grooves 920 (1) and 920 (2) and the two protrusions 1915 (1) and 1915 (2) may be fitted with each other. Note that a protrusion may be provided on the ferrule 910 and a rotation guide groove corresponding to the protrusion may be provided on the inner wall of the housing 50.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram conceptually illustrating variations of the protrusion 1915 that can be applied to the optical receptacle module 100 (5). Since the protrusion 1915 (a) shown in FIG. 11 (a) is composed of a ball bearing, the friction between the rotation guide groove 920 and the protrusion 1915 (a) is caused by the rotation of the protruding ball. Can be reduced. For this reason, the sleeve 910 can rotate and move more smoothly.

  Further, the protrusion 1915 (b) shown in FIG. 11 (b) is constituted by a rotating roller. For this reason, the rotation of the rotating roller can reduce the friction between the rotation guide groove 920 and the protrusion 1915 (b). In this case, the diameter of the rotating roller is configured to be smaller than the width of the rotation guide groove 920 so that the side surface of the rotation roller contacts only one side wall of the rotation guide groove 920 so that the rotation can be performed more smoothly. You may comprise. As described with reference to FIG. 11, what has a structure in which the protrusion 1915 rotates so as to reduce friction between the rotation guide groove 920 and the protrusion 1915 is assumed to be a roller shape in the present application.

  FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a variation of the rotation guide groove 920 applicable to the optical receptacle module 100 (5). In FIG. 12A, the split portion of the split sleeve 910 (12a) is provided obliquely rather than parallel to the optical axis so as to guide the rotation, and is used as the rotation guide groove 920 (12a).

  In FIG. 12B, the precision sleeve 910 (12b) is provided with two rotation guide grooves 920 (12b1) and 920 (12b2). In FIG. 12C, three rotation guide grooves 920 (12c1), 920 (12c2), and 920 (12c3) are provided in the precision sleeve 910 (12c).

  The precision sleeve 910 (12c) is applied with a force that rotates at more points of action than the precision sleeve 910 (12b), so the precision sleeve 910 (12c) rotates more stably and reliably and smoothly. It becomes possible to do.

  Also in each sleeve 910 shown in FIGS. 12A to 12C, it is preferable to provide a part parallel to the optical axis in a part of the rotation guide groove 920 as described with reference to FIG. 9. In this case, the portion parallel to the optical axis is arranged so as to correspond to a place where the sleeve 910 or the like comes into contact with another member. As a result, when the sleeve 910 and the second fiber stub 30 come into contact with other members, the sleeve 910 stops rotating and can come into contact with low wear only by sliding.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the eccentricity of the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 applicable to the optical receptacle module 100 (5). In FIG. 13A, the eccentricity of the fiber stubs 20 and 30 is generally the eccentricity of the positions of the holes 32 and 22 into which the fibers are inserted and the eccentricity caused by the inserted fibers not being arranged at the centers of the holes 32 and 22. Are superimposed.

  Here, the superimposed eccentricity is usually within about 1/10 μm. Further, in order to avoid a decrease in the efficiency of optical coupling due to the superimposed eccentricity, as shown in FIG. 13A, when the eccentricity adjustment is performed such that both the holes 32 and 22 for inserting the fibers are aligned at the same position on the upper side of the drawing. There is also.

  Here, typically, the diameter of the fiber stubs 20 and 30 is 2.4999 mm, the diameter of the fiber is 125 μm, and the diameter of the core is 9 to 10 μm. Further, in the optical receptacle module 100 (5), it is preferable that the above-described eccentricity is intentionally formed large, for example, an eccentric distance of about several microns or more.

  In the optical receptacle module 100 (5), the eccentric directions of the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 adjusted to be eccentric are different from each other due to the rotation of the ferrule 910. Therefore, transmission of light can be more reliably prevented. In addition, when the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 are in contact with each other, the eccentric position is restored to the original position by the reverse rotation of the ferrule 910, so that the optical coupling is surely performed. Can do.

  FIG. 13B is a diagram for explaining the most preferable eccentric positional relationship in blocking the transmission of light between the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30. As understood from FIG. 13B, when the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out, the eccentric direction of the first fiber stub 20 and the eccentric direction of the second fiber stub 30 are different by 180 °. This is preferable because the optical axes of these are the most separated. Further, as the eccentric distance of the first fiber stub 20 and the eccentric distance of the second fiber stub 30 are increased, the separation distance when the first fiber stub 20 is rotated by 180 ° is increased, so that light can be blocked more reliably.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 13C, the second fiber stub 30 has an eccentric direction and an eccentricity with respect to the first fiber stub 20 so that the optical axis is aligned with the first fiber stub 20 at the time of optical coupling. The distance matches. Further, as can be understood from FIG. 13C, the second fiber stub 30 may have a structure in which no eccentricity is provided on the plug ferrule 40 side.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the rotation angle θ of the second fiber stub 30, the eccentric distance r, and the distance rθ that the core 31 moves by rotation. As can be understood from FIG. 14, the diameter of the fiber core 31 is approximately 9 to 10 μm, and therefore, the movement distance rθ of the core 31 due to the rotation of the second fiber stub 30, that is, the rotation of the sleeve 910. It is preferable to design the eccentric distance r and the rotation angle θ so as to be 10 μm or more (rθ ≧ 10 μm).

In this case, the eccentric distance r is a distance for shifting the positions of the fiber insertion holes 22 and 32 provided in the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 from the center thereof. The rotation angle θ corresponds to the length in the circumferential direction of the length l ₂ portion of the rotation guide groove 920 that is not parallel to the optical axis but effectively contributes to the rotation of the sleeve 910.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the outline of the characteristic steps of the method for manufacturing the optical receptacle module 100 (5).

(Step S1510)
It is determined whether the designed optical output required for the optical receptacle module 100 (5) is relatively large. If the designed optical output required for the optical receptacle module 100 (5) is relatively large, the process proceeds to step S1520. If the designed optical output required for the optical receptacle module 100 (5) is not relatively large, the process proceeds to step S1530.

(Step S1520)
The sliding range L of the sleeve 910 is designed to be relatively large. That is, the length in the optical axis direction of the arrangement recess of the sleeve 910 provided in the housing 50 is made relatively large. Thereby, since the sleeve 910 can slide relatively large, the separation distance between the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 is relatively large. Therefore, even in the optical receptacle module 100 (5) having a relatively large light output, it is possible to effectively and reliably reduce the leaked light output.

(Step S1530)
The sliding range L of the sleeve 910 is designed to be relatively small. That is, the length in the optical axis direction of the arrangement recess of the sleeve 910 provided in the housing 50 is made relatively small. As a result, the sleeve 910 can be slid relatively small, so that the separation distance between the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 is relatively small. Therefore, the optical receptacle module 100 (5) that requires a relatively small light output can be reduced in size and weight while reducing the leaked light output as necessary and sufficiently.

(Step S1540)
The sleeve placement recess having the length L in the optical axis direction designed in step S1520 or step S1530 described above is formed inside the housing 50.

(Step S1550)
A rotation guide groove 920 having the same length 1 in the optical axis direction as the sliding distance L ₂ is provided in the sleeve 910.

(Step S1560)
A protrusion 1915 corresponding to the rotation guide groove 920 is provided in the sleeve placement recess.

(Step S1570)
The sleeve 910 is disposed in the sleeve placement recess of the housing 50 formed in step S1540. In this case, typically, the protrusion 1915 is fitted in the rotation guide groove 920 and disposed.

  FIG. 15 shows a typical example of the method of manufacturing the optical receptacle module 100 (5). However, for example, step S1550 is not limited to the described process sequence, and has a relatively long rotation guide groove 920 in advance. A sleeve 910 (12a) with (12a) can also be prepared. Even if the rotation guide groove 920 (12a) is relatively long, the length of the groove used when the sleeve 910 (12a) slides may be the length l described in FIG.

In step S1520 described above, instead of designing the sleeve sliding range L to be relatively large, the moving distance rθ of the core 31 is relatively large (however, the maximum θ is π (0 ≦ θ ≦ π)). It may be designed. Similarly, in step S1530 described above, instead of designing the sliding range L of the sleeve to be relatively small, the rotational distance rθ may be designed to be relatively small. In this case, in the subsequent process, the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 are produced at an eccentric distance r, and the rotation angle of the rotation guide groove 920 of the sleeve 910 with respect to the sliding distance L ₂ . Fabricate so that θ.

  The optical receptacle module 100 described in each of the first to fifth embodiments is not limited to the description in each embodiment, and the optical receptacle module 100 appropriately incorporating the characteristic items of each embodiment. Can be configured.

(Sixth embodiment)
The optical receptacle module 100 described in each of the first to fifth embodiments includes one sleeve 10, but in each embodiment, the sleeve 10 can be divided and provided in the optical axis direction. .

  In the case where the sleeve 10 is divided and provided in the optical axis direction, the two divided sleeves 10 may have different pullout strengths, that is, frictional forces between the gripping fiber stubs. Here, of the two divided sleeves 10, one sleeve 10 that grips the first fiber stub 20 is referred to as a first sleeve 10 (b), and the other sleeve 10 on the outside line connector 60 side is the second sleeve 10. (F).

  That is, the plug ferrule 40 moves the second fiber stub 30 in the optical axis direction via the second sleeve 10 (f), thereby connecting the second fiber stub 30 and the first fiber stub 20 to each other. They can be brought into contact with or separated from each other.

  For this reason, the frictional force between the plug ferrule 40 and the second sleeve 10 (f) holding the plug ferrule 40 is larger than the frictional force between the second fiber stub 30 and the first sleeve 10 (b). And Alternatively, the frictional force between the plug ferrule 40 and the second sleeve 10 (f) is greater than the frictional force between the first fiber stub 20 and the first sleeve 10 (b).

  In other words, the pull-out strength that the second sleeve 10 (f) imparts to the plug ferrule 40 is such that the first sleeve 10 (b) is at least one of the first fiber stub 20 or the second fiber stub 30. It is assumed that it is larger than the pulling strength applied to the.

  Therefore, an optical receptacle module including the two sleeves 10 divided below will be described in detail based on the drawings. In addition, in order to avoid the description which overlaps with description in each Example mentioned above, in this embodiment, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to a corresponding location and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the plug ferrule 40 is inserted in the optical receptacle module 100 (6) according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 17 is a view for explaining a state in which the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out of the optical receptacle module 100 (6) according to the sixth embodiment.

  In FIG. 16, the first fiber stub 20 of the optical receptacle module 100 (6) is held by the first sleeve 10 (b). The second fiber stub 30 is held by the first sleeve 10 (b) and the second sleeve 10 (f). The plug ferrule 40 is held by the second sleeve 10 (f).

  That is, the first sleeve 10 (b) holds the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30. The second sleeve 10 (f) holds the second fiber stub 30 and the plug ferrule 40.

  As shown in FIG. 17, when the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out from the optical receptacle module 100 (6), the second sleeve 10 (f) is caused by the frictional force between the plug ferrule 40 and the second sleeve 10 (f). Slide in the pulling direction.

Therefore, the second fiber stub 30, which is or affixed is pressed against and fixed to the second sleeve 10 (f) is in the pull-out direction together with the second sleeve 10 (f), moves by sliding distance L _2. Thus, the second fiber stub 30, and thus away from the first fiber stub 20 by sliding distance L _2.

  In FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, in the above-described operation, the state where the first sleeve 10 (b) is fixed to the housing 50 and does not move has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the plug ferrule 40 is pulled out from the optical receptacle module 100 (6), the first sleeve 10 (b) can be moved together with the second fiber stub 30 in an arbitrary pulling direction. You may slide a distance.

  The optical receptacle module 100 (6) includes at least one of the second sleeve 10 (f) that applies a relatively large frictional force to the plug ferrule 40, and the first fiber stub 20 or the second fiber stub 30. On the other hand, a first sleeve 10 (b) that applies a relatively small frictional force is provided.

  In the optical receptacle module 100 (6), even if the manufactured sleeve 10 has manufacturing variations, for example, the second sleeve 10 (f) having a relatively small inner diameter within the variation range is used as the second sleeve 10 (f), and the inner diameters are compared within the variation range. A relatively large one may be used as the first sleeve 10 (b). Therefore, since it is not necessary to design a new sleeve 10 or to prepare it separately, the optical receptacle module 100 (6) can be obtained at a low cost.

Further, since the second fiber stub 30 moves along with the withdrawal direction second sleeve 10 (f), by appropriately designing the sliding distance L ₂ of the second sleeve 10 (f), the first fiber stub 20 And the second fiber stub 30 can be optimized.

  In addition, the separation interval between the first fiber stub 20 and the second fiber stub 30 may be 1.0 μm to 1.5 μm as described above.

  Further, the pulling strength applied to the plug ferrule 40 by the second sleeve 10 (f) is about 500 g to 550 g, and the pulling strength applied to the first fiber stub 20 or the second fiber stub 30 by the first sleeve 10 (b). The strength may be 200 g to 250 g.

  The diameter of at least one of the first fiber stub 20 or the second fiber stub 30 held by the first sleeve 10 (b) may be smaller than the diameter of the plug ferrule 40.

  Thereby, for example, even when the inner diameter of the first sleeve 10 (b) and the inner diameter of the second sleeve 10 (f) are the same, the first sleeve 10 (b) is used for the first fiber stub 20 or the second fiber. The friction force applied to the stub 30 can be made smaller than the friction force applied to the plug ferrule 40 by the second sleeve 10 (f).

  Further, by fixing the second sleeve 10 (f) and the second fiber stub 30 with an adhesive or the like, the second fiber stub 30 together with the second sleeve 10 (f) is more reliably and highly reliable. The optical receptacle module 100 (6) that is separated from the first fiber stub 20 can be realized.

  The first sleeve 10 (b) may be fixed to the housing 50 and / or the first fiber stub 20 with an adhesive or the like. In this case, the frictional force between the first sleeve 10 (b) and the second fiber stub 30 is smaller than the frictional force between the second sleeve 10 (f) and the plug ferrule 40. .

  In addition, the already described rotation guide groove may be provided on the outer periphery of the second sleeve 10 (f), and a protrusion corresponding to the rotation guide groove may be provided in the sleeve placement recess of the housing 50. The second sleeve 10 (f) rotates while sliding in the pulling direction by the rotation guide groove, and the second fiber stub 30 is separated from the first fiber stub 20 correspondingly. However, the optical axis is shifted.

  In addition, by providing groove portions parallel to the optical axis that do not guide rotation effectively at both ends of the rotation guide groove, the rotation of the second fiber stub 30 is stopped at the time of contact to reduce wear. It becomes possible to do. Note that the rotation guide groove, the protrusion, and the operation and structure thereof have already been described in detail in the above-described embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted here.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, for the sake of convenience of explanation, it has been described that the sliding frictional force between the sleeve 10 and the housing 50 is negligible. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and even if the sliding frictional force between the sleeve 10 and the housing 50 is not negligible, the light that blocks the leaked light by a desired operation is taken into account. The receptacle module 100 can be realized.

  Further, the optical receptacle module 100 and the manufacturing method thereof in each of the above-described embodiments are not limited to the description in each embodiment, and the operation and configuration may be appropriately changed within a self-evident range. The shape, structure, combination thereof, and material may be appropriately changed within a range.

  The present invention can be widely applied to general optical modules such as an optical connector and an optical receptacle module.

  10 (1) .. Sleeve, 20..First fiber stub, 30..Second fiber stub, 35..Adhesive, 40..Plug ferrule, 50..Housing, 60..External connector, 70 .. Photodiode, 80 .. Laser diode, 90 .. Half mirror, 100 (1) .. Optical receptacle module.

Claims (4)

In the optical receptacle module that optically couples with the inserted plug ferrule,
A first fiber stub with one end gripped by the first sleeve;
A second fiber stub having one end gripped by the first sleeve and the other end gripped by the second sleeve so as to be separated from the first fiber stub when the plug ferrule is not inserted; ,
The optical receptacle module, wherein a distance between the first fiber stub and the second fiber stub is always the same as a distance between the first sleeve and the second sleeve. The optical receptacle module according to claim 1.
When the plug ferrule is inserted into the second sleeve, one end of the second fiber stub contacts the first fiber stub, and the other end of the second fiber stub contacts the plug ferrule. The optical receptacle module, wherein the second sleeve slides in the insertion direction together with the second fiber stub so as to contact and optically couple. The optical receptacle module according to claim 1 or 2,
When the plug ferrule is pulled out from the second sleeve, the second sleeve is moved together with the second fiber stub so that the second fiber stub is separated from the first fiber stub. An optical receptacle module characterized by sliding in a direction. A method for blocking leakage light of an optical receptacle module according to claim 1, wherein the optical receptacle module is optically coupled to an inserted plug ferrule.
A first fiber stub with one end gripped by the first sleeve and a second fiber stub with one end gripped by the second sleeve;
When the plug ferrule is pulled out from the state inserted in the second sleeve, the first fiber stub is separated from the second fiber stub and the optical axes of the two are not the same. The two sleeves have a step of rotating in the circumferential direction while sliding in the pulling direction together with the second fiber stub. The method for blocking leakage light of the optical receptacle module.

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