WO2014034726A1 - 光ファイバ結合部材及び光ファイバ結合部材の製造方法 - Google Patents
光ファイバ結合部材及び光ファイバ結合部材の製造方法 Download PDFInfo
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- WO2014034726A1 WO2014034726A1 PCT/JP2013/073014 JP2013073014W WO2014034726A1 WO 2014034726 A1 WO2014034726 A1 WO 2014034726A1 JP 2013073014 W JP2013073014 W JP 2013073014W WO 2014034726 A1 WO2014034726 A1 WO 2014034726A1
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- medium
- coupling member
- core
- light
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/26—Optical coupling means
- G02B6/268—Optical coupling means for modal dispersion control, e.g. concatenation of light guides having different modal dispersion properties
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/02—Optical fibres with cladding with or without a coating
- G02B6/02042—Multicore optical fibres
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/04—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings formed by bundles of fibres
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/26—Optical coupling means
- G02B6/32—Optical coupling means having lens focusing means positioned between opposed fibre ends
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an optical fiber coupling member that couples optical fibers used for optical communication and the like, and a manufacturing method thereof.
- a multi-core fiber is an optical fiber in which a plurality of cores are provided in one clad (see Patent Documents 1 and 2). Since the multi-core fiber has a plurality of cores, it is possible to perform large-capacity data communication compared to the single-core fiber.
- a multi-core fiber is used by optically coupling with a fiber bundle.
- the fiber bundle is configured by bundling a plurality of single core fibers.
- the cores When multicore fibers having the same number of cores are coupled, the cores can be reliably coupled by aligning the multicore fibers. In this case, since coupling loss hardly occurs, coupling efficiency can be increased.
- the cores of a multi-core fiber are arranged at an interval narrower than the diameter of each single-core fiber of the fiber bundle. Accordingly, when the fiber bundle and the multi-core fiber are coupled, it is difficult to reliably couple the cores. Therefore, the coupling efficiency between the multi-core fiber and the fiber bundle is reduced.
- the multi-core fiber and the fiber bundle are optically coupled, a coupling loss due to Fresnel reflection or the like may occur if an air layer is interposed therebetween. Therefore, the coupling efficiency between the multi-core fiber and the fiber bundle is reduced.
- the present invention solves the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide an optical fiber coupling member that suppresses a decrease in coupling efficiency when a multicore fiber and a fiber bundle are coupled, and a method for manufacturing the same.
- one end of the optical fiber coupling member according to claim 1 is in contact with a first optical waveguide configured by bundling a plurality of cores covered with a clad.
- the other end with respect to the one end is in contact with a second optical waveguide constituted by a plurality of cores each covered with a clad.
- a predetermined medium is filled between one end and the other end of the coupling member.
- the mode field diameter of each light incident from one end or the other end of the coupling member is changed.
- the interval of each light whose mode field diameter has been changed is changed and guided to each core of the first optical waveguide or each core of the second optical waveguide located on the side opposite to the light incident side.
- an optical fiber coupling member is the optical fiber coupling member according to the first aspect, and includes a first optical system and a second optical system.
- the first optical system changes the mode field diameter of each light incident from one end or the other end of the coupling member.
- the second optical system changes the interval of light whose mode field diameter has been changed.
- an optical fiber coupling member according to claim 3 is the optical fiber coupling member according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined medium includes a first medium and a second medium having different refractive indexes. Includes media.
- a first optical system and a second optical system are arranged in the first medium.
- the first optical system is configured by arranging a plurality of lenses composed of a second medium in an array.
- the second optical system is configured by arranging lenses constituting a double-sided telecentric optical system configured by the second medium.
- an optical fiber coupling member according to claim 4 is the optical fiber coupling member according to claim 3, and is a medium of a second medium forming a plurality of lenses in the first optical system. And the medium of the second medium constituting the lens in the second optical system is different.
- the optical fiber coupling member according to claim 5 is the optical fiber coupling member according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the refractive index of the first medium is equal to the core in the first optical waveguide. Or the refractive index of the core of the second optical waveguide.
- an optical fiber coupling member is the optical fiber coupling member according to claim 2, wherein the first optical system includes a plurality of first GRIN lenses as a predetermined medium.
- the first GRIN lens is composed of a medium whose refractive index is adjusted so as to change the mode field diameter of light incident from one end or the other end of the coupling member.
- the second optical system has a second GRIN lens.
- the second GRIN lens is composed of a medium whose refractive index is adjusted so as to change the interval of light whose mode field diameter has been changed as a predetermined medium.
- an optical fiber coupling member according to claim 7 is the optical fiber coupling member according to claim 6, wherein each of the plurality of first GRIN lenses collimates light from the optical path. 1 optical member and the 2nd optical member which converges the light from a 1st optical member.
- the second GRIN lens has a third optical member that collimates each of the light from the plurality of second optical members, and a fourth optical member that converges the light from the third optical member.
- an optical fiber coupling member according to claim 8 is the optical fiber coupling member according to claim 2, wherein the medium of the first optical system is used from one end or the other end of the coupling member.
- the second optical system has a second GRIN lens.
- the second GRIN lens is composed of a medium whose refractive index is adjusted so as to change the interval of light whose mode field diameter has been changed as a predetermined medium.
- an optical fiber coupling member according to claim 9 is the optical fiber coupling member according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the first optical system and the second optical system are used.
- the system is integrally formed by fixing with an adhesive.
- an optical fiber coupling member according to claim 10 is the optical fiber coupling member according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fitting portion and the fitting portion And have.
- an optical fiber coupling member according to claim 11 is the optical fiber coupling member according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first optical waveguide includes A fiber bundle obtained by bundling a single core fiber as a core.
- the second optical waveguide is a multi-core fiber.
- the manufacturing method of Claim 12 is the optical fiber coupling member provided with the 1st base material, the 2nd base material, the 3rd base material, and the 4th base material. It is a manufacturing method.
- a plurality of first members are provided on the first base material. One end of the first member is in contact with a fiber bundle composed of a plurality of single core fibers. A plurality of first recesses corresponding to the single core fibers are formed at the other end.
- a plurality of second members are provided on the second base material. A plurality of second recesses corresponding to the first recesses are formed at one end of the second member. One third recess corresponding to the plurality of second recesses is formed at the other end.
- a plurality of third members are provided on the third base material. One fourth recess corresponding to the third recess is formed at one end of the third member. One fifth recess corresponding to the fourth recess is formed at the other end.
- a plurality of fourth members are provided on the fourth base material.
- One sixth recess corresponding to the fifth recess is formed at one end of the fourth member. The other end is in contact with the multicore fiber.
- the manufacturing method includes a step of laminating the first base material and the second base material in a state where the first concave portion and the second concave portion are opposed to each other.
- the manufacturing method includes a step of laminating the second base material and the third base material with the third concave portion and the fourth concave portion facing each other.
- the manufacturing method includes a step of laminating the third base material and the fourth base material in a state where the fifth concave portion and the sixth concave portion are opposed to each other.
- the manufacturing method includes a step of injecting resin into a space formed by the first concave portion and the second concave portion to create the first lens portion.
- the manufacturing method includes a step of injecting resin into a space formed by the third concave portion and the fourth concave portion to create the second lens portion.
- the manufacturing method includes a step of injecting a resin into a space formed by the fifth concave portion and the sixth concave portion to create a third lens portion. Further, in this manufacturing method, after the first lens unit, the second lens unit, and the third lens unit are created, the laminated base material is cut for each member formed by the first member to the fourth member, It has the process of dividing into pieces.
- the optical fiber coupling member filled with a predetermined medium changes the mode field diameter of each light incident from one end in contact with the first optical waveguide or the other end in contact with the second optical waveguide. Further, the interval of the light whose mode field diameter has been changed is changed and guided to each core of the first optical waveguide or each core of the second optical waveguide located on the opposite side to the incident side. Therefore, there is no air layer between the first optical waveguide and the second optical waveguide. Therefore, when coupling the multi-core fiber and the fiber bundle, it is possible to suppress a decrease in coupling efficiency.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the multi-core fiber 1. In FIG. 1, only the tip portion of the multi-core fiber 1 is shown.
- the multi-core fiber 1 is formed of a material having high light transmittance such as quartz glass or plastic.
- the core C k is a transmission path (optical path) that transmits light from a light source (not shown).
- the core C k is made of, for example, a material in which germanium oxide (GeO 2 ) is added to quartz glass.
- germanium oxide GeO 2
- seven cores C 1 to C 7 are shown as the multi-core fiber 1, but this embodiment is not limited to this configuration, and the number of cores C k may be at least two or more. .
- Cladding 2 by covering the plurality of cores C k, confine light from the light source into the core C k.
- the end surface Ek of the core Ck and the end surface 2a of the clad 2 form the same surface (the end surface 1b of the multicore fiber 1).
- the refractive index of the cladding 2 material is lower than the refractive index of the core C k material.
- the material of the core C k is made of quartz glass and germanium oxide
- the material of the cladding 2 is, for example, quartz glass.
- the coupling member 20 is disposed between the first optical waveguide and the second optical waveguide.
- the first optical waveguide is configured by bundling a plurality of one core (optical path) covered with a clad.
- the second optical waveguide is composed of a plurality of cores each covered with a clad.
- the coupling member 20 optically couples the first optical waveguide and the second optical waveguide.
- the coupling member 20 in the present embodiment couples the fiber bundle 10 as the first optical waveguide and the multi-core fiber 1 as the second optical waveguide.
- FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a cross section in the axial direction of the coupling member 20, the fiber bundle 10, and the multicore fiber 1.
- the fiber bundle 10 includes a plurality of single core fibers 100.
- the fiber bundle 10 has a single core fiber 100 corresponding to the number of cores of the target multi-core fiber 1 to be coupled by the coupling member 20.
- the multicore fiber 1 has 7 cores, and the fiber bundle 10 is configured by bundling seven single core fibers 100 so as to be equal to the number of cores.
- FIG. 2 only three single core fibers 100 are shown.
- the single core fiber 100 is configured to include a core C inside a clad 101.
- the core C is a transmission path that transmits light from the light source.
- the light emitted from the end surface Ca of the core C enters one end of the coupling member 20.
- the single core fiber 100 corresponds to an example of “one core covered with a clad”.
- the coupling member 20 has one end in contact with the fiber bundle 10 and the other end in contact with the multicore fiber 1.
- the coupling member 20 is filled with a predetermined medium.
- the predetermined medium is a medium other than air, and examples thereof include quartz glass, BK7, UV curable resin, and thermosetting resin.
- the fiber bundle 10 and the multi-core fiber 1 are each fixed to the coupling member 20 with opposing end surfaces by an adhesive or the like. That is, one end of the coupling member 20 is fixed to the end face of the fiber bundle 10, and the other end is fixed to the end face of the multicore fiber 1.
- the adhesive has a refractive index comparable to that of the core C (core C k ).
- the coupling member 20 changes the mode field diameter of each light from each optical path (single core fiber 100) of the fiber bundle 10.
- the light whose mode field diameter has been changed is guided to each core (core C k ) of the multi-core fiber 1 with the interval thereof changed by the coupling member 20.
- the mode field diameter refers to the diameter of light actually emitted from a certain target. For example, light passing through the core C of the single core fiber 100 slightly leaks to the cladding 101 side around the core C. Therefore, the light emitted from the single core fiber 100 is emitted not only from the core C but also from the cladding 101 around the core C. That is, the diameter of light emitted from the single core fiber 100 is larger than the diameter of the core C. This “diameter of light emitted from the single core fiber 100” is an example of a mode field diameter.
- the coupling member 20 in the present embodiment includes a first optical system 21 and a second optical system 22.
- the light incident from the single core fiber 100 is guided by the first optical system 21 to the second optical system 22 with each mode field diameter changed.
- the interval of light incident from the first optical system 21 is changed by the second optical system 22 according to the interval of the cores C k of the multicore fiber 1.
- the refractive index of the medium A2 constituting the lens portion of the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 is different from that of the medium A1 constituting the other portion.
- the medium A1 corresponds to an example of “first medium”.
- the medium A2 corresponds to an example of a “second medium”.
- the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 in the present embodiment are integrally configured via the medium A1. That is, the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 are formed continuously.
- Refractive index of the medium A1 is preferably equal to the refractive index of the core C k of the refractive index or the multi-core fiber of the core C of single-core fiber 100.
- the core C k of the multicore fiber 1 is made of a material obtained by adding germanium oxide (GeO 2 ) to quartz glass, the same material is used for the medium A1.
- the medium A1 may be made of another material having the same refractive index as that of the core Ck .
- the difference between the refractive index of the medium A1 and the refractive index of the core C (or core C k ) is preferably within 2%.
- reflection at the interface between the coupling member 20 and the single core fiber 100 (or the multicore fiber 1) is about 40 dB, and it is possible to reduce optical loss in optical transmission. .
- the first optical system 21 in the present embodiment expands the mode field diameter of each light that enters the single core fiber 100 of the fiber bundle 10.
- Such first optical system 21 includes, for example, a plurality of convex lens portions 21a arranged in an array.
- the plurality of convex lens portions 21a are configured by the medium A2, and are disposed in the medium A1.
- the plurality of convex lens portions 21 a are provided in the same number as the single core fibers 100 included in the fiber bundle 10 in order to change the mode field diameter of each light incident from the fiber bundle 10. In the present embodiment, seven convex lens portions 21a are provided.
- the first optical system 21 (convex lens portion 21a) is disposed at a position where each principal ray Pr of light emitted from each end face Ca of the fiber bundle 10 enters perpendicularly to the surface of the corresponding convex lens portion 21a. . That is, the convex lens portion 21a is disposed on the same optical axis as each core C.
- the convex lens portion 21a has a diameter larger than the mode field diameter of the core C, and condenses light from the core C.
- the plurality of convex lens portions 21a in the present embodiment is an example of “a plurality of lenses”.
- the second optical system 22 in the present embodiment is a reduction optical system that narrows the interval between a plurality of lights whose mode field diameters are expanded by the first optical system 21 and guides them to the cores C 1 to C 7 of the multicore fiber 1.
- the second optical system 22 is configured by a double-sided telecentric optical system including two convex lens portions (a convex lens portion 22a and a convex lens portion 22b).
- Convex lens part 22a and convex lens part 22b are constituted by medium A2, and are arranged in medium A1.
- In order to change the interval of the light incident from the plurality of convex lens portions 21a only one set of the convex lens portion 22a and the convex lens portion 22b is provided.
- the second optical system 22 is disposed at a position where each principal ray Pr incident from the first optical system 21 is perpendicularly incident on the end face E k of each core C k of the corresponding multi-core fiber 1.
- the medium A2 constituting the plurality of convex lens parts 21a in the first optical system 21 is different from the medium A2 constituting the convex lens parts (convex lens part 22a, convex lens part 22b) in the second optical system 22. May be.
- the mode field diameter of light incident from the single core fiber 100 (core C) and the mode field diameter of light incident on each core C k of the multicore fiber 1 are determined. It is desirable to be equal.
- the second optical system 22 (convex lens portion 22a, convex lens portion 22b) is an optical system that narrows the interval of light. That is, the mode field diameter of each light transmitted through the convex lens portion 22a and the convex lens portion 22b is reduced.
- the first optical system 21 the magnification of the mode field diameter is reduced by the second optical system 22, i.e., be a magnifying optical system in consideration of the magnification to reduce to match the mode field diameter of the core C k desirable.
- each light emitted from each end face Ca enters the convex lens portion 21a with a predetermined mode field diameter while diffusing in the medium A1.
- the principal ray Pr of each light emitted from the end face Ca is incident perpendicularly to the convex lens portion 21a.
- Each light transmitted through the convex lens portion 21a forms an image at the image point IP with the mode field diameter being enlarged.
- Each light transmitted through the convex lens portion 21a enters the convex lens portion 22a while diffusing in the medium A1 with the imaging point IP as a secondary light source.
- the convex lens portion 22a and the convex lens portion 22b are configured as a bilateral telecentric optical system. Accordingly, each of the principal rays Pr of light incident perpendicularly to the convex lens portion 22a passes through the medium A1 in a collimated state and enters the convex lens portion 22b. Each of the principal rays Pr of light is emitted vertically from the convex lens portion 22b in a state where the interval between the principal rays Pr is narrowed. Further, each of the principal rays Pr of the emitted light passes through the medium A1 and enters the plurality of cores C k of the multicore fiber 1 perpendicularly.
- the coupling member 20 of the present embodiment As described above, even if the mode field diameter or the interval of the light (principal ray Pr) is changed in order to achieve matching between the single core fiber 100 and the multicore fiber 1, the light passes through the medium A1 and the medium A2. In this case, reflection by the air layer does not occur. Therefore, according to the configuration of the coupling member 20 of the present embodiment, a decrease in coupling efficiency can be suppressed.
- the coupling member 20 changes the interval of light from each core of the second optical waveguide (multi-core fiber 1) and changes the mode field diameter of each of the light whose intervals are changed, thereby changing the first optical waveguide (fiber). The light is guided to each optical path (single core fiber 100) of the bundle 10).
- the second optical system 22 expands the interval between the plurality of lights emitted from the multi-core fiber 1.
- the first optical system 21 reduces the mode field diameter of each light from the second optical system 22.
- Each light (principal ray Pr) with a reduced mode field diameter is perpendicularly incident on the end face Ca of the corresponding core C.
- first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 can be formed separately and combined to form the coupling member 20.
- first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 are respectively made of the medium A1 and the medium A2.
- the integral coupling member 20 is comprised by fixing the end surface of the 1st optical system 21 and the end surface of the 2nd optical system 22 with an adhesive agent.
- the adhesive in this case has a refractive index comparable to that of the medium A1 (medium A2).
- FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing the coupling member 20.
- FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the first substrate 200a.
- FIG. 4A shows only a part of the first base material 200a.
- FIG. 4B is a schematic view showing cross sections of the first base material 200a and the second base material 200b.
- FIG. 4B shows only a part of the first base material 200a and the second base material 200b.
- FIG. 4C is a schematic diagram illustrating cross sections of the first base material 200a, the second base material 200b, and the third base material 200c.
- FIG. 4C is a perspective view of stacked first base material 200a to fourth base material 200d.
- FIG. 4H is a perspective view of stacked first base material 200a to fourth base material 200d. In FIG. 4H, only a part of the first base material 200a to the fourth base material 200d is shown. Note that the first base material 200a to the fourth base material 200d are configured of the medium A1.
- the first substrate 200a is provided with a plurality of first members m1 having one end E1 and the other end E2.
- One end E1 is in contact with the fiber bundle 10.
- a plurality of first recesses D1 corresponding to the plurality of single core fibers 100 are formed.
- the second substrate 200b is provided with a plurality of second members m2 having one end E3 and the other end E4.
- a plurality of second recesses D2 corresponding to the plurality of first recesses D1 are formed at one end E3.
- one third recess D3 corresponding to the plurality of second recesses D2 is formed.
- the third base material 200c is provided with a plurality of third members m3 having one end E5 and the other end E6. At one end E5, one fourth recess D4 corresponding to the third recess D3 is formed. One fifth recess D5 corresponding to the fourth recess D4 is formed at the other end E6.
- the fourth base material 200d is provided with a plurality of fourth members m4 having one end E7 and the other end E8.
- One sixth recess D6 corresponding to the fifth recess D5 is formed at one end E7.
- the other end E8 is in contact with the multi-core fiber 1.
- the manufacturing method of the first base material 200a to the fourth base material 200d for example, the method described in International Publication No. 2010/032511 can be applied.
- a resin part B2 made of the same resin as the medium A1 is formed on the surface of a main body part B1 (see FIG. 4A) constituted by the medium A1.
- the 1st recessed part D1 is formed in resin part B2 using a master type
- a glass nanoimprint technique may be applied as a method of manufacturing the first base material 200a to the fourth base material 200d.
- the first recess D1 may be formed directly on the main body B1 formed of the medium A1.
- the manufacturing apparatus laminates the first base material 200a and the second base material 200b (S10, see FIG. 4B). Specifically, the manufacturing apparatus opposes the plurality of first recesses D1 in the first base material 200a and the plurality of second recesses D2 in the second base material 200b. Furthermore, the manufacturing apparatus laminates the first base material 200a and the second base material 200b in that state (see FIG. 4B). A plurality of spaces (gap) are formed between the first base 200a and the second base 200b by the first recess D1 and the second recess D2.
- the manufacturing apparatus laminates the second base material 200b and the third base material 200c (S11). Specifically, the manufacturing apparatus includes a third recess D3 formed at the other end E4 of the second base material 200b in the unit created in S10, and a fourth recess D4 formed at one end E5 of the third base material 200c. Facing each other. Further, the manufacturing apparatus stacks the second base material 200b and the third base material 200c in that state (see FIG. 4C). A space (gap) is formed between the second substrate 200b and the third substrate 200c by the third recess D3 and the fourth recess D4.
- the manufacturing apparatus laminates the third base material 200c and the fourth base material 200d (S12). Specifically, the manufacturing apparatus includes a fifth recess D5 formed at the other end E6 of the third base material 200c and a sixth recess D6 formed at one end E7 of the fourth base material 200d in the unit created in S11. Facing each other. Furthermore, the manufacturing apparatus laminates the third base material 200c and the fourth base material 200d in that state (see FIG. 4D). A space (gap) is formed between the third substrate 200c and the fourth substrate 200d by the fifth recess D5 and the sixth recess D6. Each substrate is bonded in a laminated state. The position adjustment at the time of adhesion can be performed by, for example, an alignment mark provided on each base material.
- the manufacturing apparatus injects resin into the space formed by the first recess D1 and the second recess D2 through the nozzle N to create the first lens portion R1 (S13, see FIG. 4E).
- the resin injected in the present embodiment is the medium A2.
- the first lens portion R1 in each member is composed of a plurality of convex lens portions 21a.
- the manufacturing apparatus injects resin into the space formed by the third concave portion D3 and the fourth concave portion D4 through the nozzle N to create the second lens portion R2 (S14, see FIG. 4F).
- the resin injected in the present embodiment is the medium A2.
- the second lens portion R2 in each member is composed of one convex lens portion 22a.
- the manufacturing apparatus injects resin into the space formed by the fifth concave portion D5 and the sixth concave portion D6 through the nozzle N to create the third lens portion R3 (S15, see FIG. 4G).
- the resin injected in the present embodiment is the medium A2.
- the third lens portion R3 in each member is composed of one convex lens portion 22b. Thereafter, an inspection for confirming manufacturing errors and the like is performed on the units created up to S15 collectively.
- disconnects the laminated base material for every member M, and separates into pieces (S16; refer FIG. 4H).
- the broken line in FIG. 4H corresponds to a line L indicating a portion to be cut.
- the manufacturing apparatus transfers the first base material 200a to the fourth base material 200d to the first member m1 to the first member. It cut
- the resin injection (resin filling) method in S13 to S15 various methods can be adopted as the resin injection (resin filling) method in S13 to S15.
- the technique described in International Publication No. 2011-055655 can be applied.
- the space formed by the first concave portion D1 and the second concave portion D2 The nozzle N is arranged on the lower side.
- the resin can be filled while venting the air in the space. Therefore, the resin can be filled without air accumulation.
- pressure reducing means may be provided on the side opposite to the side where the resin is injected, and the resin may be injected while reducing the pressure in the space. By this step, it is possible to fill the resin without air accumulation.
- the medium injected into the space through the nozzle N is not limited to resin.
- resin for example, glass having a softening point lower than that of each substrate and having a low viscosity may be used instead of the resin. Note that “low viscosity” indicates a viscosity that can be filled in a space.
- the manufacturing method of the coupling member 20 is not limited to the above example.
- the manufacturing apparatus laminates the first base material 200a and the second base material 200b (S10). Thereafter, the manufacturing apparatus injects resin through the nozzle N (S13).
- the manufacturing apparatus laminates the second base material 200b and the third base material 200c. (S11). Thereafter, the manufacturing apparatus injects resin through the nozzle N (S14).
- the manufacturing apparatus laminates the third base material 200c and the fourth base material 200d (S12). Thereafter, the manufacturing apparatus injects resin through the nozzle N (S15). That is, the manufacturing apparatus can also manufacture the coupling member 20 through a process of injecting a resin (medium A2) into the space every time the base materials are stacked.
- One end of the coupling member 20 is in contact with a first optical waveguide (fiber bundle 10) configured by bundling a plurality of one core (single core fiber 100) covered with a clad.
- the other end of the coupling member 20 is in contact with a second optical waveguide (multi-core fiber 1) configured by a plurality of cores each covered with a clad.
- a predetermined medium is filled between one end and the other end of the coupling member.
- the mode field diameter of each light incident from one end or the other end of the coupling member 20 is changed. Further, the interval of light whose mode field diameter is changed is changed. This light is guided to the single core fiber 100 in the core C k of the multi-core fiber 1 or the fiber bundle 10 located on the opposite side to the light incident side with respect to the coupling member 20.
- the coupling member 20 includes a first optical system 21 and a second optical system 22.
- the first optical system 21 changes the mode field diameter of each light incident from the single core fiber 100.
- the second optical system 22 changes the interval of light whose mode field diameter has been changed.
- the medium includes a first medium (medium A1) and a second medium (medium A2) having different refractive indexes.
- the first optical system 21 is configured by arranging a plurality of lenses (convex lens portions 21a) formed of a second medium in an array in a first medium.
- lenses (convex lens portion 22a and convex lens portion 22b) constituting a double-sided telecentric optical system constituted by the second medium are arranged in the first medium.
- the coupling member 20 filled with the medium A1 and the medium A2 changes the mode field diameter of each light incident from the single core fiber 100 by the convex lens portion 21a.
- Further coupling member 20 leads both-side telecentric optical system (lens unit 22a, the convex lens portion 22b) core C k of the multicore fiber 1 by changing the spacing of the light mode field diameter is changed by. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which an air layer is interposed between the fiber bundle 10 and the multi-core fiber 1. Therefore, when the fiber bundle 10 and the multi-core fiber 1 are coupled, it is possible to suppress a decrease in coupling efficiency. Further, it is possible to reduce the size of the coupling member 20 that is integrally formed with the medium in this way.
- the refractive index of the first medium is equal to or substantially the refractive index of the core C k of the refractive index or the multi-core fiber of the core C of single-core fiber 100 Are equivalent.
- the difference in refractive index between the first medium and the core C (core C k ) is preferably within 2% in order to suppress optical loss.
- the medium A1 by configuring the medium A1 with the same material as the core (core C or core C k ) that transmits light, the light from the core enters the convex lens portion 21a and the like while maintaining the light amount. That is, according to the coupling member 20 of the present embodiment, it is possible to further suppress a decrease in light coupling efficiency.
- the manufacturing method according to this embodiment can manufacture the coupling member 20.
- This manufacturing method includes a step of laminating the first base material 200a and the second base material 200b.
- the first base member 200a is provided with a plurality of first members m1 having one end E1 and the other end E2.
- One end E1 is in contact with the fiber bundle 10.
- a plurality of first recesses D1 corresponding to the plurality of single core fibers 100 are formed.
- a plurality of second members m2 having one end E3 and the other end E4 are provided on the second base material 200b.
- a plurality of second recesses D2 corresponding to the plurality of first recesses D1 are formed at one end E3.
- one third recess D3 corresponding to the plurality of second recesses D2 is formed.
- the first base material 200a and the second base material 200b are stacked with the first recess D1 and the second recess D2 facing each other.
- this manufacturing method includes a step of laminating the second base material 200b and the third base material 200c.
- the third base material 200c is provided with a plurality of third members m3 having one end E5 and the other end E6. At one end E5, one fourth recess D4 corresponding to the third recess D3 is formed. One fifth recess D5 corresponding to the fourth recess D4 is formed at the other end E6.
- the manufacturing method includes a step of laminating the third base material 200c and the fourth base material 200d.
- the fourth substrate 200d is provided with a plurality of fourth members m4 having one end E7 and the other end E8.
- One sixth recess D6 corresponding to the fifth recess D5 is formed at one end E7.
- the other end E8 is in contact with the multi-core fiber 1 with the fifth recess D5 and the sixth recess D6 facing each other.
- this manufacturing method includes a step of creating the first lens portion R1 by injecting resin into the space formed by the first concave portion D1 and the second concave portion D2.
- this manufacturing method includes a step of creating the second lens portion R2 by injecting resin into the space formed by the third concave portion D3 and the fourth concave portion D4.
- the manufacturing method includes a step of creating the third lens portion R3 by injecting a resin into the space formed by the fifth concave portion D5 and the sixth concave portion D6.
- the laminated base material is formed of the first member m1 to the fourth member m4. It has the process of cut
- each lens portion has a small lens diameter and is very thin, it is difficult to mold the lens as a single lens.
- the lens portion can be easily formed by using such a manufacturing method. That is, the small coupling member 20 can be easily manufactured.
- FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram showing a cross section in the axial direction of the coupling member 20, the fiber bundle 10, and the multicore fiber 1.
- a GRIN lens is used as the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 constituting the coupling member 20.
- Detailed description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment will be omitted.
- the coupling member 20 in this embodiment has a GRIN lens.
- the GRIN lens is a refractive index distribution type lens that collects light by adjusting the refractive index distribution in the lens by bending the medium that constitutes the lens, and bending the diffused light. That is, the GRIN lens can adjust the refractive index distribution by an ion exchange processing method.
- a SELFOC lens (“SELFOC” is a registered trademark) can be used as the GRIN lens.
- the first optical system 21 has a GRIN lens SL1.
- the GRIN lens SL1 is composed of a medium whose refractive index is adjusted so as to change the mode field diameter of light incident from the fiber bundle 10 (a plurality of single core fibers 100).
- a plurality of GRIN lenses SL1 are provided corresponding to the number of single core fibers 100 constituting the fiber bundle 10.
- the GRIN lens SL1 is an example of a “first GRIN lens”.
- each of the plurality of GRIN lenses SL1 in this embodiment includes a first optical member SL1a and a second optical member SL1b.
- One end of the first optical member SL1a is in contact with the fiber bundle 10.
- the refractive index distribution of the first optical member SL1a is adjusted so as to collimate the light that is incident and diffused from the single core fiber 100.
- One end of the second optical member SL1b is in contact with the other end of the first optical member SL1a.
- the refractive index distribution of the second optical member SL1b is adjusted so that the light collimated by the first optical member SL1a is converged.
- the mode field diameter of the light (light at the imaging point IP) converged by the second optical member SL1b is larger than the mode field diameter of the light from the single core fiber 100.
- the first optical member SL1a and the second optical member SL1b constitute an integral GRIN lens SL1 by being fixed by an adhesive or the like.
- the adhesive has a refractive index comparable to that of the medium.
- the second optical system 22 has a GRIN lens SL2.
- the GRIN lens SL2 is composed of a medium whose refractive index is adjusted so as to change the interval of light whose mode field diameter has been changed. In the present embodiment, only one GRIN lens SL2 is provided so that light from the plurality of GRIN lenses SL1 enters.
- the GRIN lens SL2 is an example of a “second GRIN lens”.
- the GRIN lens SL2 in the present embodiment includes a third optical member SL2a and a fourth optical member SL2b.
- One end of the third optical member SL2a is in contact with the other end of the second optical member SL1b.
- the refractive index distribution of the third optical member SL2a is adjusted so as to collimate each light from the plurality of second optical members SL1b.
- One end of the fourth optical member SL2b is in contact with the other end of the third optical member SL2a.
- the other end of the fourth optical member SL2b is in contact with the multi-core fiber 1.
- the refractive index distribution of the fourth optical member SL2b is adjusted so as to converge the light from the third optical member SL2a.
- the third optical member SL2a and the fourth optical member SL2b constitute an integral GRIN lens SL2 by being fixed by an adhesive or the like. Then, the second optical member SL1b and the third optical member SL2a are fixed with an adhesive or the like, so that the coupling member 20 is integrally formed.
- the mode field diameter of light from the single core fiber 100 and the mode field diameter of light incident on each core C k of the multicore fiber 1 are determined. It is desirable to be equal.
- the GRIN lens SL2 is an optical system that narrows the interval of light. That is, the mode field diameter of each light transmitted through the GRIN lens SL2 is reduced. Therefore, it is desirable that the GRIN lens SL1 is configured as a magnifying optical system in consideration of the magnification by which the mode field diameter is reduced by the GRIN lens SL2.
- the GRIN lens SL1 and the GRIN lens SL2 do not need to be configured by a plurality of optical members.
- the GRIN lens SL1 and the GRIN lens SL2 may be configured of a medium whose refractive index is adjusted so that each function can be achieved. That is, the GRIN lens SL1 and the GRIN lens SL2 may each be composed of one optical member.
- each light emitted from each end face Ca is collimated by the first optical member SL1a and enters the second optical member SL1b.
- the light incident on the second optical member SL1b is converged by the refractive index distribution of the medium constituting the second optical member SL1b.
- Each of the lights transmitted through the second optical member SL1b forms an image at the image point IP with the mode field diameter being enlarged.
- each light transmitted through the second optical member SL1b enters the third optical member SL2a with the image point IP as a secondary light source.
- the refractive index of each GRIN lens is adjusted so that the imaging point IP is located at the boundary between the GRIN lens SL1 and the GRIN lens SL2.
- Each light incident on the third optical member SL2a passes through the third optical member SL2a in a state of being collimated based on the refractive index distribution of the medium constituting the third optical member SL2a. 4 enters the optical member SL2b. And the light which injected into 4th optical member SL2b is converged based on the refractive index distribution of the medium which comprises 4th optical member SL2b. Further, the light is incident on the plurality of cores C k of the multi-core fiber 1 in a state where the distance between each other is narrowed.
- the light incident from the second optical member SL1b passes through the medium constituting the third optical member SL2a, reflection or the like by the air layer can be suppressed.
- reflection or the like by the air layer can be suppressed. Therefore, a decrease in coupling efficiency can be suppressed.
- the first optical system 21 in the coupling member 20 includes a GRIN lens SL1.
- the GRIN lens SL1 is composed of a medium whose refractive index is adjusted so as to change the mode field diameter of light from the optical path (single core fiber 100).
- the second optical system 22 in the coupling member 20 has a GRIN lens SL2.
- the GRIN lens SL2 is composed of a medium whose refractive index is adjusted so as to change the interval of light whose mode field diameter has been changed.
- each of the plurality of GRIN lenses SL1 includes a first optical member SL1a and a second optical member SL1b.
- the first optical member SL1a collimates the light from the single core fiber 100.
- the second optical member SL1b converges the light from the first optical member SL1a.
- the GRIN lens SL2 includes a third optical member SL2a and a fourth optical member SL2b.
- the third optical member SL2a collimates each light from the plurality of second optical members SL1b.
- the fourth optical member SL2b converges the light from the third optical member SL2a.
- the GRIN lens SL1 filled with a predetermined medium changes the mode field diameter of each light from the single core fiber 100.
- GRIN lens SL2 filled with a predetermined medium leads to the core C k of the multicore fiber 1 by changing the spacing of the light mode field diameter is changed. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which an air layer is interposed between the fiber bundle 10 and the multi-core fiber 1. That is, even in the configuration using the GRIN lens as in the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress a decrease in coupling efficiency when the fiber bundle 10 and the multicore fiber 1 are coupled.
- FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a cross section in the axial direction of the coupling member 20, the fiber bundle 10, and the multicore fiber 1.
- a plurality of fibers Fk are used as the first optical system 21 configuring the coupling member 20 and a GRIN lens SL2 is used as the second optical system 22 will be described. Note that detailed description of the same configurations as those in the first embodiment and the second embodiment will be omitted.
- the coupling member 20 in the present embodiment includes a first optical system 21 and a second optical system 22 as in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.
- the fiber F k includes a core C f that transmits light and a clad 3 that covers the core C f .
- the diameter of the core C f at the incident end in contact with the single core fiber 100 is substantially the same as the diameter of the core C of the single core fiber 100.
- the number of the fibers F k equal to the number of the single core fibers 100 constituting the fiber bundle 10 is provided.
- the fiber F k has a different core diameter at the entrance end and the exit end. Specifically, the fiber F k is configured such that the diameter of the core C f at the exit end in contact with the GRIN lens SL2 is larger than the diameter of the core C f at the entrance end in contact with the single core fiber 100.
- the light passing through the core C f of the fiber F k has a mode field diameter that increases as it approaches the exit end.
- the fiber F k is manufactured by the following method, for example. First, heat is applied to a part of one fiber to cut the fiber. By performing the further heat treatment to the end face of the cut fiber may be a core diameter of one end to obtain a larger fiber F k than the core diameter of the other end.
- the fiber F k and the single core fiber 100 constituting the first optical system 21 are separate.
- the present embodiment is not limited to this example.
- the same GRIN lens SL2 as in the second embodiment is used.
- One end of the GRIN lens SL2 is in contact with the exit end of the fiber F k.
- GRIN lens SL2 is constituted from a medium refractive index is adjusted to change the spacing of a plurality of fibers F k light mode field diameter was changed in each.
- Each of the lights incident on the GRIN lens SL2 is converged based on the refractive index distribution of the medium constituting the second optical system 22, and is spaced from each other with respect to the plurality of cores C k of the multicore fiber 1. Incident. When the light from the fiber F k (core C f ) passes through the medium constituting the GRIN lens SL2, reflection by the air layer and the like can be suppressed. Therefore, a decrease in coupling efficiency can be suppressed.
- the first optical system 21 in the coupling member 20 includes a plurality of fibers F k that change the mode field diameter of each light from the single core fiber 100 as a medium.
- the second optical system 22 has a GRIN lens SL2.
- the GRIN lens SL2 is composed of a medium whose refractive index is adjusted so as to change the interval of light whose mode field diameter has been changed.
- the fiber F k as a predetermined medium changes the mode field diameter of each light incident from the single core fiber 100.
- GRIN lens SL2 filled with a predetermined medium leads to the core C k of the multicore fiber 1 by changing the spacing of the light mode field diameter is changed. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which an air layer is interposed between the fiber bundle 10 and the multi-core fiber 1. That is, as in this embodiment, be configured using a fiber F k and GRIN lens SL2 core diameter is different at the exit end and the incident end, when coupling the fiber bundle 10 and the multi-core fiber 1, bond A decrease in efficiency can be suppressed.
- FIG. 7A is a diagram showing an end face of the coupling member 20.
- FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating an end face of the multi-core fiber 1.
- FIG. 7C is a diagram showing an AA cross section in FIGS. 7A and 7B.
- a fitting portion F ⁇ b> 1 is provided on the end surface of the coupling member 20 (the end surface on the side connected to the multi-core fiber 1).
- the fitting portion F ⁇ b> 2 is provided on the end surface 2 a (end surface on the side connected to the coupling member 20) of the clad 2 of the multicore fiber 1.
- three projections P 1 to P 3 corresponding to the hole H 1 to the hole H 3 are provided.
- the size of the protrusion Pk is formed to be approximately the same as the size of the hole Hk .
- the multi-core fiber 1 with respect to the end surface of the coupling member 20 is connected by fitting so that the protrusion P k and the hole H k are fitted.
- the position of the end face 1b is determined. That is, alignment adjustment in the rotation direction is not necessary. It is also possible to provide the fitting portion F2 on the end surface of the coupling member 20 and provide the fitted portion F1 on the end surface 2a of the clad 2.
- the coupling member 20 may include the GRIN lens SL1 in the second embodiment as the first optical system 21. Further, the coupling member 20 can also include the both-side telecentric optical system (convex lens portion 22a, convex lens portion 22b) in the first embodiment as the second optical system 22.
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Abstract
Description
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項2記載の光ファイバ結合部材は、請求項1記載の光ファイバ結合部材であって、第1光学系と、第2光学系とを有する。第1光学系は、結合部材の一端又は他端から入射した光それぞれのモードフィールド径を変更する。第2光学系は、モードフィールド径が変更された光の間隔を変更する。
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項3記載の光ファイバ結合部材は、請求項2記載の光ファイバ結合部材であって、前記所定の媒体は、屈折率の異なる第1媒体及び第2媒体を含む。第1媒体の中には、第1光学系と第2光学系とが配置される。第1光学系は、第2媒体により構成される複数のレンズがアレイ状に配置されて構成される。第2光学系は、第2媒体により構成される両側テレセントリック光学系を構成するレンズが配置されて構成される。
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項4記載の光ファイバ結合部材は、請求項3記載の光ファイバ結合部材であって、第1光学系における複数のレンズを形成する第2媒体の媒質と、第2光学系においてレンズを構成のする第2媒体の媒質とが異なる。
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項5記載の光ファイバ結合部材は、請求項3または4記載の光ファイバ結合部材であって、第1媒体の屈折率は、第1光導波路におけるコアの屈折率、または第2光導波路のコアの屈折率と等しい。
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項6記載の光ファイバ結合部材は、請求項2記載の光ファイバ結合部材であって、第1光学系は、所定の媒体として複数の第1GRINレンズを有する。第1GRINレンズは、結合部材の一端または他端から入射された光のモードフィールド径を変更するように屈折率が調整された媒体により構成される。第2光学系は、第2GRINレンズを有する。第2GRINレンズは、所定の媒体としてモードフィールド径が変更された光の間隔を変更するように屈折率が調整された媒体により構成される。
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項7記載の光ファイバ結合部材は、請求項6記載の光ファイバ結合部材であって、複数の第1GRINレンズはそれぞれ、光路からの光をコリメートする第1光学部材と、第1光学部材からの光を収束する第2光学部材とを有する。第2GRINレンズは、複数の第2光学部材からの光それぞれをコリメートする第3光学部材と、第3光学部材からの光を収束する第4光学部材とを有する。
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項8記載の光ファイバ結合部材は、請求項2記載の光ファイバ結合部材であって、第1光学系の媒体として、結合部材の一端又は他端から入射された光それぞれのモードフィールド径を変更する複数のファイバを有する。第2光学系は、第2GRINレンズを有する。第2GRINレンズは、所定の媒体としてモードフィールド径が変更された光の間隔を変更するように屈折率が調整された媒体により構成される。
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項9記載の光ファイバ結合部材は、請求項2~8のいずれか一つに記載の光ファイバ結合部材であって、第1光学系及び第2光学系は、接着剤で固定することにより一体に構成される。
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項10記載の光ファイバ結合部材は、請求項1~9のいずれか一つに記載の光ファイバ結合部材であって、嵌合部と被嵌合部とを有する。嵌合部は、第1光導波路及び/または第2光導波路の端面に設けられる。被嵌合部は、結合部材の一端及び/または他端に設けられ、嵌合部と嵌り合う。
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項11記載の光ファイバ結合部材は、請求項1~10のいずれか一つに記載の光ファイバ結合部材であって、第1光導波路は、一のコアとしてのシングルコアファイバを束ねたファイバ束である。第2光導波路は、マルチコアファイバである。
また、上記課題を解決するために、請求項12記載の製造方法は、第1基材と、第2基材と、第3基材と、第4基材とを備えた光ファイバ結合部材の製造方法である。第1基材には、第1部材が複数設けられる。第1部材の一端は、複数のシングルコアファイバにより構成されるファイバ束に接する。他端には、当該シングルコアファイバそれぞれに対応する複数の第1凹部が形成される。第2基材には、第2部材が複数設けられる。第2部材の一端には、当該第1凹部に対応する複数の第2凹部が形成される。他端には複数の第2凹部に対応する一の第3凹部が形成される。第3基材には第3部材が複数設けられる。第3部材の一端には、第3凹部に対応する一の第4凹部が形成される。他端には第4凹部に対応する一の第5凹部が形成される。第4基材には、第4部材が複数設けられる。第4部材の一端には、第5凹部に対応する一の第6凹部が形成される。他端はマルチコアファイバと接する。この製造方法は、第1凹部と第2凹部とを対向させた状態で、第1基材と第2基材とを積層する工程を有する。また、この製造方法は、第3凹部と第4凹部とを対向させた状態で、第2基材と第3基材とを積層する工程を有する。また、この製造方法は、第5凹部と第6凹部とを対向させた状態で、第3基材と第4基材とを積層する工程を有する。また、この製造方法は、第1凹部及び第2凹部により形成される空間に樹脂を注入し、第1レンズ部を作成する工程を有する。また、この製造方法は、第3凹部及び第4凹部により形成される空間に樹脂を注入し、第2レンズ部を作成する工程を有する。また、この製造方法は、第5凹部及び第6凹部により形成される空間に樹脂を注入し、第3レンズ部を作成する工程を有する。また、この製造方法は、第1レンズ部、第2レンズ部及び第3レンズ部が作成された後、積層された基材を第1部材~第4部材により形成される部材毎に切断し、個片化する工程を有する。
図1を参照して、マルチコアファイバ1の構成について説明する。マルチコアファイバ1は、一般に可撓性を有する長尺の円柱部材である。図1は、マルチコアファイバ1の斜視図である。図1では、マルチコアファイバ1の先端部分のみを示す。
次に、図2~図4Hを参照して、第1実施形態に係る結合部材20の構成及び製造方法を説明する。結合部材20は、第1光導波路と、第2光導波路との間に配置される。第1光導波路は、クラッドにより覆われた一のコア(光路)を複数束ねて構成される。第2光導波路は、それぞれがクラッドにより覆われた複数のコアにより構成される。結合部材20は、第1光導波路と第2光導波路とを光学的に結合する。本実施形態における結合部材20は、第1光導波路としてのファイバ束10と、第2光導波路としてのマルチコアファイバ1とを結合する。図2は、結合部材20、ファイバ束10及びマルチコアファイバ1の軸方向の断面を示す概念図である。
ファイバ束10は、複数のシングルコアファイバ100を含んで構成される。ファイバ束10は、結合部材20により結合される対象のマルチコアファイバ1のコア数に応じたシングルコアファイバ100を有する。図1の例においてマルチコアファイバ1は、7コアであり、ファイバ束10はそのコア数と等しくなるように7本のシングルコアファイバ100が束ねられて構成される。なお、図2では3本のシングルコアファイバ100のみを示す。シングルコアファイバ100は、クラッド101の内部にコアCを含んで構成される。コアCは、光源からの光を伝送する伝送路である。コアCの端面Caから出射された光は、結合部材20の一端に入射する。シングルコアファイバ100は、「クラッドにより覆われた一のコア」の一例に相当する。
本実施形態に係る結合部材20は、ファイバ束10と接する一端と、マルチコアファイバ1と接する他端とを有する。結合部材20には、所定の媒体が充填される。所定の媒体は、空気以外の媒体であり、たとえば、石英ガラス、BK7、UV硬化性樹脂、熱硬化性樹脂等が挙げられる。ファイバ束10およびマルチコアファイバ1は、それぞれ結合部材20に対し、対向する端面が接着剤等により固定される。すなわち、結合部材20の一端は、ファイバ束10の端面と固定され、他端は、マルチコアファイバ1の端面と固定される。接着剤は、コアC(コアCk)の屈折率と同程度の屈折率を有する。
次に、図2を参照して、本実施形態の結合部材20を透過する光の進み方について説明する。本実施形態では、ファイバ束10から光が出射する構成について説明する。
次に、図3~図4Hを参照して本実施形態の結合部材20の製造方法について説明する。図3は、結合部材20の製造方法を示すフローチャートである。図4Aは、第1基材200aの斜視図である。図4Aでは、第1基材200aの一部のみを示す。図4Bは、第1基材200a及び第2基材200bの断面を示す概略図である。図4Bでは、第1基材200a及び第2基材200bの一部のみを示す。図4Cは、第1基材200a、第2基材200b及び第3基材200cの断面を示す概略図である。図4Cでは、第1基材200a、第2基材200b及び第3基材200cの一部のみを示す。図4D~図4Gは、第1基材200a、第2基材200b、第3基材200c及び第4基材200dの断面を示す概略図である。図4D~図4Gでは、第1基材200a、第2基材200b、第3基材200c及び第4基材200dの一部のみを示す。図4Hは、積層された第1基材200a~第4基材200dの斜視図である。図4Hでは、第1基材200a~第4基材200dの一部のみを示す。なお、第1基材200a~第4基材200dは、媒体A1で構成されるものとする。
本実施形態の作用及び効果について説明する。
第1基材200aには、一端E1及び他端E2を有する第1部材m1が複数設けられる。一端E1は、ファイバ束10と接する。他端E2には、複数のシングルコアファイバ100それぞれに対応する複数の第1凹部D1が形成される。
第2基材200bには、一端E3及び他端E4を有する第2部材m2が複数設けられる。一端E3には、複数の第1凹部D1に対応する複数の第2凹部D2が形成される。他端E4には、複数の第2凹部D2に対応する一の第3凹部D3が形成される。この積層工程では、第1凹部D1と第2凹部D2とを対向させた状態で、第1基材200aと第2基材200bとが積層される。
また、この製造方法は、第2基材200bと第3基材200cとを積層する工程を有する。第3基材200cには、一端E5及び他端E6を有する第3部材m3が複数設けられる。一端E5には、第3凹部D3に対応する一の第4凹部D4が形成される。他端E6には、第4凹部D4に対応する一の第5凹部D5が形成される。この積層工程では、第3凹部D3と第4凹部D4とを対向させた状態で、第2基材200bと第3基材200cとが積層される。
また、この製造方法は、第3基材200cと第4基材200dとを積層する工程を有する。第4基材200dには、一端E7及び他端E8を有する第4部材m4が複数設けられる。一端E7には、第5凹部D5に対応する一の第6凹部D6が形成される。他端E8は、第5凹部D5と第6凹部D6とを対向させた状態で、マルチコアファイバ1と接する。
また、この製造方法は、第1凹部D1及び第2凹部D2により形成される空間に樹脂を注入することにより、第1レンズ部R1を作成する工程を有する。また、この製造方法は、第3凹部D3及び第4凹部D4により形成される空間に樹脂を注入することにより、第2レンズ部R2を作成する工程を有する。また、この製造方法は、第5凹部D5及び第6凹部D6により形成される空間に樹脂を注入することにより、第3レンズ部R3を作成する工程を有する。また、この製造方法は、第1レンズ部R1、第2レンズ部R2及び第3レンズ部R3が作成された後、積層された基材を第1部材m1~第4部材m4により構成される部材M毎に切断し、個片化する工程を有する。
次に、図5を参照して、第2実施形態に係る結合部材20の構成について説明する。図5は、結合部材20、ファイバ束10及びマルチコアファイバ1の軸方向の断面を示す概念図である。本実施形態では、結合部材20を構成する第1光学系21及び第2光学系22としてGRINレンズを使用する例を述べる。なお、第1実施形態と同様の構成等については詳細な説明を省略する。
本実施形態における結合部材20は、GRINレンズを有する。GRINレンズとは、レンズを構成する媒体をイオン交換処理することにより、レンズ内の屈折率分布を調整し、拡散する光を曲げて光を集める屈折率分布型のレンズである。つまりGRINレンズは、イオン交換の処理方法により屈折率分布を調整することができる。GRINレンズとしては、たとえば、セルフォックレンズ(「セルフォック」は登録商標)を用いることができる。
次に、図5を参照して、本実施形態の結合部材20を透過する光の進み方について説明する。本実施形態では、ファイバ束10から光が出射する構成について説明する。
本実施形態の作用及び効果について説明する。
次に、図6を参照して、第3実施形態に係る結合部材20の構成について説明する。図6は、結合部材20、ファイバ束10及びマルチコアファイバ1の軸方向の断面を示す概念図である。本実施形態では、結合部材20を構成する第1光学系21として複数のファイバFkを使用し、第2光学系22としてGRINレンズSL2を使用する例を述べる。なお、第1実施形態及び第2実施形態と同様の構成等については詳細な説明を省略する。
本実施形態における結合部材20は、第1実施形態及び第2実施形態と同様、第1光学系21及び第2光学系22を有する。
次に、図6を参照して、本実施形態の結合部材20を透過する光の進み方について説明する。本実施形態では、ファイバ束10から光が出射する構成について説明する。
本実施形態の作用及び効果について説明する。
上記実施形態において、結合部材20を介してマルチコアファイバ1とファイバ束10とを接続する場合、それぞれの接続部分で回転方向のアライメント調整が必要になる。本変形例では、アライメント調整が不要となる構成について説明する。以下、マルチコアファイバ1と結合部材20との接続に関して説明する。なお、結合部材20とファイバ束10との接続でも同様の構成を用いることが可能である。
上記実施形態における第1光学系21と第2光学系22とは任意の組み合わせが可能である。たとえば、結合部材20は、第1光学系21として第2実施形態におけるGRINレンズSL1を有してもよい。また結合部材20は、第2光学系22として第1実施形態における両側テレセントリック光学系(凸レンズ部22a、凸レンズ部22b)を有することも可能である。
1b 端面
2 クラッド
2a 端面
10 ファイバ束
20 結合部材
21 第1光学系
21a 凸レンズ部
22 第2光学系
22a、22b 凸レンズ部
100 シングルコアファイバ
101 クラッド
A1、A2 媒体
C、Ck コア
Ca、Ek 端面
Claims (12)
- クラッドにより覆われた一のコアを複数束ねて構成された第1光導波路と接する一端と、
それぞれがクラッドで覆われた複数のコアにより構成される第2光導波路と接する他端と、
前記一端と前記他端の間に充填される所定の媒体と、を備え、
前記一端又は前記他端から入射した光それぞれのモードフィールド径を変更し、且つ前記モードフィールド径が変更された光の間隔を変更して、該光の入射側と反対側に位置する前記第1光導波路の各コアまたは前記第2光導波路の各コアへ導くことを特徴とする光ファイバ結合部材。 - 前記一端又は前記他端から入射した光それぞれのモードフィールド径を変更する第1光学系と、
前記モードフィールド径が変更された光の間隔を変更する第2光学系と、
を有することを特徴とする請求項1記載の光ファイバ結合部材。 - 前記所定の媒体は、屈折率の異なる第1媒体及び第2媒体を含み、
前記第1媒体の中に前記第1光学系と前記第2光学系とが配置され、
前記第1光学系は、前記第2媒体により構成される複数のレンズがアレイ状に配置されて構成され、
前記第2光学系は、前記第2媒体により構成される両側テレセントリック光学系を構成するレンズが配置されて構成されたことを特徴とする請求項2記載の光ファイバ結合部材。 - 前記第1光学系における前記複数のレンズを構成する前記第2媒体と、前記第2光学系における前記レンズを構成する前記第2媒体とは異なる媒質であることを特徴とする請求項3記載の光ファイバ結合部材。
- 前記第1媒体の屈折率は、前記第1光導波路におけるコアの屈折率、または前記第2光導波路のコアの屈折率と等しいことを特徴とする請求項3または4記載の光ファイバ結合部材。
- 前記第1光学系は、複数の第1GRINレンズを有し、
前記第1GRINレンズは、前記所定の媒体として前記一端または前記他端から入射された光のモードフィールド径を変更するように屈折率が調整された媒体により構成され、
前記第2光学系は、第2GRINレンズを有し、
前記第2GRINレンズは、前記所定の媒体として前記モードフィールド径が変更された光の間隔を変更するように屈折率が調整された媒体により構成されることを特徴とする請求項2記載の光ファイバ結合部材。 - 複数の前記第1GRINレンズはそれぞれ、
前記光路からの光をコリメートする第1光学部材と、
前記第1光学部材からの光を収束させる第2光学部材と、
を有し、
前記第2GRINレンズは、
複数の前記第2光学部材からの光それぞれをコリメートする第3光学部材と、
前記第3光学部材からの光を収束させる第4光学部材と、
を有することを特徴とする請求項6記載の光ファイバ結合部材。 - 前記第1光学系は、前記所定の媒体として、前記一端又は前記他端から入射された光それぞれのモードフィールド径を変更する複数のファイバを有し、
前記第2光学系は、第2GRINレンズを有し、
前記第2GRINレンズは、前記所定の媒体として、前記モードフィールド径が変更された光の間隔を変更するように屈折率が調整された媒体により構成されることを特徴とする請求項2記載の光ファイバ結合部材。 - 前記第1光学系及び前記第2光学系は、接着剤で固定することにより一体に構成されていることを特徴とする請求項2~8のいずれか一つに記載の光ファイバ結合部材。
- 前記第1光導波路及び/または前記第2光導波路の端面に設けられる嵌合部と、
前記一端及び/または他端に設けられ、前記嵌合部と嵌り合う被嵌合部と、
を有することを特徴とする請求項1~9のいずれか一つに記載の光ファイバ結合部材。 - 前記第1光導波路は、前記一のコアとしてのシングルコアファイバを束ねたファイバ束であり、
前記第2光導波路は、マルチコアファイバであることを特徴とする請求項1~10のいずれか一つに記載の光ファイバ結合部材。 - 複数のシングルコアファイバにより構成されるファイバ束に接する一端、及び該シングルコアファイバそれぞれに対応する複数の第1凹部が形成された他端を有する第1部材が複数設けられた第1基材と、
該第1凹部に対応する複数の第2凹部が形成された一端、及び複数の前記第2凹部に対応する一の第3凹部が形成された他端を有する第2部材が複数設けられた第2基材と、
該第3凹部に対応する一の第4凹部が形成された一端、及び前記第4凹部に対応する一の第5凹部が形成された他端を有する第3部材が複数設けられた第3基材と、
第5凹部に対応する一の第6凹部が形成された一端、及びマルチコアファイバと接する他端を有する第4部材が複数設けられた第4基材とを備えた光ファイバ結合部材の製造方法であって、
前記第1凹部と前記第2凹部とを対向させた状態で、前記第1基材と前記第2基材とを積層する工程と、
前記第3凹部と前記第4凹部とを対向させた状態で、前記第2基材と前記第3基材とを積層する工程と、
前記第5凹部と前記第6凹部とを対向させた状態で、前記第3基材と前記第4基材とを積層する工程と、
前記第1凹部及び前記第2凹部により形成される空間に樹脂を注入し、第1レンズ部を作成する工程と、
前記第3凹部及び前記第4凹部により形成される空間に樹脂を注入し、第2レンズ部を作成する工程と、
前記第5凹部及び前記第6凹部により形成される空間に樹脂を注入し、第3レンズ部を作成する工程と、
前記第1レンズ部、前記第2レンズ部及び前記第3レンズ部が作成された後、積層された基材を前記第1部材~前記第4部材により形成される部材毎に切断し、個片化する工程と、
を有することを特徴とする光ファイバ結合部材の製造方法。
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JP2018165804A (ja) * | 2017-03-28 | 2018-10-25 | 住友電気工業株式会社 | 光接続部品の製造方法 |
JP2019203916A (ja) * | 2018-05-21 | 2019-11-28 | 日本電信電話株式会社 | 光接続構造 |
JP7014048B2 (ja) | 2018-05-21 | 2022-02-01 | 日本電信電話株式会社 | 光接続構造 |
US11448839B2 (en) | 2018-05-21 | 2022-09-20 | Nippon Telegraph And Telephone Corporation | Optical connection structure |
WO2022019019A1 (ja) * | 2020-07-22 | 2022-01-27 | 住友電気工業株式会社 | マルチコアファイバモジュール及びマルチコアファイバ増幅器 |
WO2023167065A1 (ja) * | 2022-03-04 | 2023-09-07 | 湖北工業株式会社 | ファンイン/ファンアウトデバイス |
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US20150260917A1 (en) | 2015-09-17 |
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