JP4002144B2 - Multi-core optical collimator and optical module using the same - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a multi-core optical collimator used in optical communication and optical measurement, and an optical module comprising the same, and in particular, various operations such as optical switching, optical branching, optical coupling, etc., between a plurality of fibers as necessary. The present invention relates to a multi-core optical collimator and the like for connecting with each other.
[0002]
[Prior art]
A method of detachably connecting a pair of multi-core fibers using an MT (mechanically transferable) connection method is known (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 8-114724, etc.).
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the connection method described above, a pair of multi-fibers are simply connected, and functions such as optical branching and multiplexing cannot be provided for these connections.
[0004]
Therefore, the present invention provides an optical module that can have various functions such as optical branching and multiplexing when a pair of housings fixed with a pair of multi-fibers are detachably connected. Objective.
[0005]
Another object of the present invention is to provide a multi-core optical collimator that is a multi-core optical collimator made of a high-density multi-core fiber and that realizes an optical module having various functions as described above.
[0006]
It is another object of the present invention to provide an optical module that can reduce insertion loss due to connection when connecting a pair of multi-core optical collimators each having a multi-core fiber fixed thereto.
[0007]
It is another object of the present invention to provide a multi-core optical collimator that realizes an optical module capable of optically and precisely connecting a pair of multi-core fibers in a non-contact manner.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above problems, a multi-core optical collimator according to the present invention holds end portions of a plurality of fibers in parallel in a predetermined direction, and sets end surfaces of the plurality of fibers on a predetermined circumference perpendicular to the predetermined direction. And a collimator lens disposed to face the fiber unit.
[0009]
In the multi-core optical collimator, the fiber unit places and fixes the end faces of the plurality of fibers on a predetermined circumference perpendicular to the predetermined direction, so that the end faces of the plurality of fibers, particularly when there are many fibers, are used. The center axis of the predetermined circumference can be equivalently arranged. Therefore, it is possible to increase the symmetry of the arrangement of each fiber and bring the characteristics of the collimated light closer, so that two such multi-core optical collimators can be combined to have various functions such as optical branching and multiplexing as an optical module. In this case, precise operation can be achieved with low loss.
[0010]
In another specific aspect of the multi-core optical collimator, a central axis of the predetermined circumference coincides with an optical axis of the collimator lens. In this case, the end face of each fiber can be arranged symmetrically with respect to the optical axis of the collimator lens, and the characteristics of the light from each fiber collimated by the collimator lens can be matched. Thereby, the operation characteristic of a multi-core optical collimator and an optical module comprised from this can be improved.
[0011]
Further, in a specific aspect of the multi-core optical collimator, the fiber unit holds the end portions of a plurality of pairs of fibers in parallel with the predetermined direction, and the end faces of the plurality of pairs of fibers are arranged on the predetermined circumference. Place and fix to. In this case, it is possible to provide a high-density and high-function optical module capable of batch processing of multi-channel optical signals.
[0012]
In another specific aspect of the multi-core optical collimator, the end faces of each pair constituting the plurality of pairs of fibers are arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the predetermined circumference. In this case, by preparing a pair of multi-core optical collimators having the same shape inverted like a mirror, an optical module having various functions such as optical branching and multiplexing can be provided.
[0013]
Further, in another specific aspect of the multi-core optical collimator, the fiber unit holds end portions of a plurality of pairs of fibers in parallel with the predetermined direction, and end faces of one pair of fibers are disposed on the plurality of fibers. The fiber is arranged and fixed on the first circumference which is the predetermined circumference, and the end faces of the other pair of fibers are arranged on the second circumference which is coaxial with the predetermined circumference and has a large radius. Fix it. In this case, the density of the fiber, that is, the number of channels can be easily increased.
[0014]
In another specific aspect of the multi-core optical collimator, the end faces provided on the one pair of fibers are arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the predetermined circumference, and are provided on the other pair of fibers. The end faces are arranged symmetrically across the center of the predetermined circumference. Also in this case, by preparing a pair of multi-core optical collimators having the same shape inverted like a mirror, an optical module having various functions such as optical branching and multiplexing can be provided.
[0015]
  Further, in another specific aspect of the multi-core optical collimator, a central axis of the predetermined circumference which is the first circumference coincides with an optical axis of the collimator lens, andSecond circumferenceIs disposed closer to the collimator lens than the first circumference. In this case, the imaging characteristics of the collimator lens can be corrected, and the operating characteristics of the optical module can be improved.
[0016]
In another specific aspect of the multi-core optical collimator, the end face of each fiber is inclined at a predetermined inclination angle with respect to the central axis of the predetermined circumference. In this case, it is possible to prevent the return light from being generated at the end face of each fiber by adjusting the predetermined inclination angle. The predetermined inclination angle is preferably larger than half the total reflection critical angle of light propagating in the plurality of fibers.
[0017]
Further, in another specific aspect of the multi-core optical collimator, the end surface of each fiber has a concave shape, a conical surface shape, a V-shaped cross section formed symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the predetermined circumference, and It is formed on any surface of the step groove shape. In this case, it is possible not only to prevent the return light from being generated at the end face of each fiber, but also to correct the imaging characteristics of the collimator lens.
[0018]
The concave surface or conical surface as described above is usually formed on the butt surface of the fiber unit. By pressing and polishing a polishing member having a spherical or conical tip at an appropriate position on the abutting surface of the fiber unit, the end surfaces of the fibers as described above can be easily formed collectively. In addition, the V-shaped cross-section or stepped groove-shaped surface is formed by pressing a disk-shaped polishing disk against an appropriate position on the abutting surface of the fiber unit for cutting and polishing. In particular, when forming a V-shaped surface, a polishing disk having a vertex at the thickness center of the outer periphery of the disk and a pair of polishing surfaces having an equal inclination angle with respect to the rotation axis is used. In the processing as described above, it is desirable that the stage supporting the fiber unit is moved in parallel with a plurality of fibers fixed to the fiber unit. If the alignment guide hole is formed in the fiber unit, polishing is performed. By providing a guide pin that fits into the guide hole on the side of the polishing head that drives the member or the polishing board, the processing accuracy can be easily increased.
[0019]
The optical module according to the present invention includes a first multi-core optical collimator having the above-described structure, and a first multi-core optical collimator having a central axis of the predetermined circumference. Guide means for aligning and holding them so as to match. In this case, the focal lengths of the collimator lens of the first multi-core optical collimator and the collimator lens of the second multi-core optical collimator are made equal to each other, and both are separated by twice the focal length. Both the multi-core optical collimator and the second multi-core optical collimator can be efficiently connected while having the same shape.
[0020]
In a specific aspect of the optical module, a flat optical element is detachably inserted between the first multi-core optical collimator and the second multi-core optical collimator. In this case, the optical element can be a mirror, a neutral density filter, a band pass filter, or the like.
[0021]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, an optical module according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0022]
FIG. 1A is a sectional view conceptually illustrating the optical module of the first embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a sectional view from the side of the optical module shown in FIG. FIG.
[0023]
The optical module 10 includes a first fiber unit 20 that fixes two pairs of optical fibers F11 to F14 arranged in parallel to the AB direction, and two pairs of optical fibers F21 to F24 arranged and fixed in parallel to the AB direction. In combination with the second fiber unit 30, the first collimator unit 40 having the lens L 1 that converts the light emitted from each of the optical fibers F 11 to F 14 into a parallel light beam in combination with the first fiber unit 20. Accordingly, a second collimator unit 50 having a lens L2 for collimating the light emitted from each of the optical fibers F21 to F24, and a pair of guide pins that pass through these units 20, 30, 40, 50 and position them mutually. 60 and a clip 70 for clamping and fixing these units 20, 30, 40, 50. . Here, the first fiber unit 20 and the first collimator unit 40 constitute a first multi-core optical collimator, and the second fiber unit 30 and the second collimator unit 50 constitute a second multi-core optical collimator. . Each unit 20, 30, 40, 50 is formed by molding various engineering plastics such as thermoplastic or thermoplastic resin mixed with filler using a mold.
[0024]
2A is a perspective view illustrating the state of the butting surface 21 of the first fiber unit 20, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view illustrating the state of the butting surface 31 of the second fiber unit 30. is there. Four fiber end faces E11 to E14 corresponding to the optical fibers F11 to F14 are exposed at the butting surface 21 of the first fiber unit 20. In addition, a pair of guide holes 23 through which the pair of guide pins 60 are passed is formed in the abutting surface 21 of the first fiber unit 20. Each guide hole 23 has a circular cross section, and the diameter thereof is equal to the diameter of the circular cross section of the guide pin 60. On the other hand, the four fiber end faces E21 to E24 corresponding to the optical fibers F21 to F24 are also exposed on the butting surface 31 of the second fiber unit 30. In addition, a pair of guide holes 33 for allowing the pair of guide pins 60 to pass therethrough is formed in the butting surface 31 of the second fiber unit 30. Each guide hole 33 has a circular cross section, and the diameter thereof is equal to the diameter of the circular cross section of the guide pin 60.
[0025]
FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the butting surface 21 of the first fiber unit 20. The fiber end faces E11 to E14 are arranged at equal intervals on a circumference R virtually formed on the abutting face 21. That is, the fiber end face E11 and the fiber end face E14 are arranged point-symmetrically with respect to the center CP of the circumference R, and the fiber end face E12 and the fiber end face E13 are also arranged point-symmetrically with respect to the center CP of the circumference R. . Here, the circumference R has a central axis CA common to the first fiber unit 20. That is, the central axis CA extends perpendicularly to the butting surface 21 and penetrates the center CP of the circumference R.
[0026]
The abutting surface 31 of the second fiber unit 30 is also in the same state as the abutting surface 21 of the first fiber unit 20. That is, the fiber end faces E21 to E24 are arranged at equal intervals on a circumference virtually formed on the butting face 31 with the central axis CA as the center.
[0027]
Returning to FIG. 1, the first collimator unit 40 has a lens hole 41 for accommodating and fixing the lens L1. The lens L1 is fixed to the center of the lens hole 41 with an adhesive or the like. In other words, the lens L1 is fixed at a position away from both opposing end faces of the first collimator unit 40 by the focal length f.
[0028]
The second collimator unit 50 has the same shape as the first collimator unit 40. That is, in the center of the lens hole 51, the lens L2 is accommodated and fixed.
[0029]
Each guide pin 60 is sequentially formed in a guide hole 23 provided in the first fiber unit 20, a guide hole provided in the first and second collimator units 40 and 50, and a guide hole 33 provided in the second fiber unit 30. Threaded and engages with these guide holes. As a result, the central axes CA of the units 20, 30, 40, and 50 are connected in alignment with each other. The guide pin 60 and the guide holes 23 and 33 constitute guide means.
[0030]
Although the detailed description of each clip 70 is omitted, a plate member that abuts on the upper surface or the lower surface of each connected unit 20, 30, 40, 50, and both side surfaces of the first and second fiber units 20, 30 are provided. It consists of an engaging leaf spring. All the units 20, 30, 40 in an aligned state are held by holding the units 20, 30, 40, 50 in the above-described clip 70 through a pair of guide pins 60 through the units 20, 30, 40, 50 arranged side by side. , 50 are fixed together.
[0031]
Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the optical module 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B will be described. The laser light emitted while diverging from the fiber end face E11 of the optical fiber F11 provided in the first fiber unit 20 is converted into a parallel light flux by the first lens L1, and the boundary between the first and second collimator units 40, 50 is obtained. Passes near the central axis CA. The laser light that has traveled straight and entered the second lens L 2 is collected by the second lens L 2 and enters the fiber end face E 22 of the optical fiber F 22 provided in the second fiber unit 30. Here, the fiber end surface E11 and the fiber end surface E22 are in opposite positions with the central axis CA interposed therebetween when both the fiber units 20 and 30 are fixed facing each other. In other words, the laser beam is optically coupled in a non-contact manner from the optical fiber F11 at the opposite position across the central axis CA to the optical fiber F22. Similarly, the fiber end surface E12 and the fiber end surface E21 are disposed at opposite positions with the central axis CA interposed therebetween, and laser light is not contacted from the optical fiber F12 at the opposite position with the central axis CA in between to the optical fiber F21. Optically coupled. Further, the fiber end surface E13 and the fiber end surface E24 are disposed at opposite positions with the central axis CA interposed therebetween, and laser light is optically contacted from the optical fiber F13 at the opposite position with the central axis CA interposed therebetween to the optical fiber F24. Combined. Further, the fiber end face E14 and the fiber end face E23 are disposed at opposite positions with the central axis CA interposed therebetween, and the laser light is optically contacted from the optical fiber F14 at the opposite position with the central axis CA interposed therebetween to the optical fiber F23. Combined.
[0032]
Each unit 20, 30, 40, 50 is separable as described above. For example, the first fiber unit 20 is connected to another fiber unit having the same shape as the second fiber unit 30, and the signal light Switching can be performed.
[0033]
4A to 4D show modified examples of the first fiber unit 20. In the case of the fiber unit 20 </ b> B of the first modification shown in FIG. 4A, six fiber end surfaces E are provided on the butt surface 21. The fiber end surfaces E are arranged at equal intervals on a circumference R virtually formed on the butting surface 21 around the central axis CA. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the butting surface of the 2nd fiber unit arrange | positioned facing when assembled as an optical module is also in the same state as the butting surface 21 of the first fiber unit 20B. Thereby, between one of the fiber end faces E of the first fiber unit 20B and the corresponding fiber end face on the second fiber unit (not shown) side disposed at the opposite position across the central axis CA, the optical signal is transmitted. Can be combined.
[0034]
In the case of the fiber unit 20C of the second modification shown in FIG. 4 (b), a pair of fiber end faces Ea disposed on the inner circumference R1 on the butting surface 21 and an outer circumference R2 are disposed. And a pair of fiber end faces Eb arranged to face each other. The inner circumference R1 and the outer circumference R2 share the central axis CA, and the four fiber end faces Ea and Eb are arranged in a line. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the abutting surface of the 2nd fiber unit arrange | positioned facing when assembled as an optical module is also in the same state as the abutting surface 21 of the first fiber unit 20C. As a result, light is transmitted between any one of the fiber end faces Ea and Eb of the first fiber unit 20C and the corresponding fiber end face on the second fiber unit (not shown) side disposed at the opposite position across the central axis CA. Signal coupling becomes possible.
[0035]
In the case of the fiber unit 20D of the third modification shown in FIG. 4 (c), two pairs of fiber end faces Ea disposed on the inner circumference R1 on the butting surface 21 and the outer circumference R2 are arranged. And two pairs of fiber end faces Eb arranged opposite to each other. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the butting surface of the 2nd fiber unit arrange | positioned facing when assembled as an optical module is also in the same state as the butting surface 21 of the first fiber unit 20D. As a result, between the fiber end faces Ea, Eb of any of the first fiber units 20D and the corresponding fiber end faces on the second fiber unit (not shown) side arranged at opposite positions with the central axis CA interposed therebetween, Signal coupling becomes possible.
[0036]
In the case of the fiber unit 20E of the fourth modified example shown in FIG. 4D, two pairs of fiber end faces Ea disposed on the inner circumference R1 on the butting surface 21 and an intermediate circumference R2 are provided. Are provided with four pairs of fiber end surfaces Eb, and two pairs of fiber end surfaces Ec disposed on the outer circumference R3. Here, the inner circumference R1, the middle circumference R2, and the outer circumference R3 share the central axis CA, and each pair of the fiber end faces Ea to Ec are opposed to each other across the central axis CA. Are arranged. As a result, between any one of the fiber end faces Ea, Eb, Ec of the first fiber unit 20D and the corresponding fiber end face on the second fiber unit (not shown) side disposed at the opposite position across the central axis CA. The optical signal can be combined.
[0037]
[Second Embodiment]
Hereinafter, an optical module according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The optical module according to the second embodiment is a modification of the optical module according to the first embodiment, and the same portions are denoted by the same reference numerals and redundant description is omitted.
[0038]
As shown in FIG. 5, the optical module 110 of the present embodiment includes a mirror 81 that is a detachable flat optical element between the first and second collimator units 40 and 50. In addition, a space for sandwiching the mirror 81 may be provided between the first and second collimator units 40 and 50 in advance. In addition, the width of the second collimator unit 50 in the first embodiment can be reduced by the thickness of the mirror 81.
[0039]
The operation of the optical module 110 in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the laser light IL1 emitted while diverging from the fiber end face E11 of the optical fiber F11 provided in the first fiber unit 20 is converted into a parallel light beam by the first lens L1, and the first and second collimator units 40, 50 are used. It is reflected by the mirror 81 arranged at the boundary. The laser beam OL 1 reflected by the mirror 81 returns to the first lens L 1 and is condensed again, and enters the fiber end face E 14 of the optical fiber F 14 provided in the first fiber unit 20. Here, the fiber end surface E11 and the fiber end surface E14 are in opposite positions with the central axis CA interposed therebetween. That is, the laser beam IL1 from the optical fiber F11 at the opposite position across the central axis CA is optically coupled to the optical fiber F14 in a non-contact manner and emitted as the laser beam OL1. Similarly, the fiber end surface E13 and the fiber end surface E21 are disposed at opposite positions with the central axis CA interposed therebetween, and the laser light IL2 from the optical fiber F13 at the opposite position with the central axis CA interposed therebetween is applied to the optical fiber F12. Optically coupled in a non-contact manner and emitted as laser light OL2.
[0040]
When the mirror 81 is removed from between the collimator units 40 and 50, the structure is the same as that shown in FIG. 1, and therefore, the optical fiber F11 to F14 and the optical fibers F21 to F24 are not affected by the first embodiment. Similar optical coupling is achieved. In this case, if a spacer or the like is arranged instead of the mirror 81, the interval between the units 40 and 50 can be maintained.
[0041]
Further, as shown in FIG. 5, when the mirror 81 is disposed so as to contact the first collimator unit 40, the second collimator unit 50 and the second fiber unit 30 become unnecessary, and the mirror 81 is replaced with the first mirror 81. A member that is fixed to one collimator unit 40 may be provided.
[0042]
Further, the mirror 81 can be replaced with a band-pass filter. When such a bandpass filter reflects the band of wavelength λ1 and transmits the band of wavelength λ2, the incident light of wavelength λ2 is incident on the incident light of wavelength λ1, although it operates as shown in FIG. In contrast, the operation is performed as described in FIGS. 1A and 1B and FIG.
[0043]
[Third Embodiment]
Hereinafter, an optical module according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The optical module according to the third embodiment is a modification of the optical module according to the first embodiment.
[0044]
FIG. 7 is a partial longitudinal sectional view conceptually illustrating the optical module according to the third embodiment. This optical module 210 has a first ferrule 220, which is a fiber unit for fixing two pairs of optical fibers F11 to F14 parallel to the optical axis, and two pairs of optical fibers F21 to F24 parallel to the optical axis. In combination with the second ferrule 230, which is another fiber unit to be fixed, and the first ferrule 220, the first lens portion 240 having the first lens L1 that converts the light emitted from each of the optical fibers F11 to F14 into a parallel light beam. And a second lens part 250 having a second lens L2 for collimating the light emitted from each of the optical fibers F21 to F24 in combination with the second ferrule 230, and disposed between the first and second lens parts 240, 250. And a holder 280 for holding the band-pass filter 82 and a casing 260 for storing them. Here, the first ferrule 220 and the first lens unit 240 constitute a first multi-core optical collimator, and the second ferrule 230 and the second lens unit 250 constitute a second multi-core optical collimator. The first ferrule 220 made of a metal and the first lens part 240 made of metal are fixed to each other by YAG welding, and fixed to the metal casing 260 by YAG welding. The second ferrule 230 made of metal, the second lens portion 250 made of metal, and the holder 280 made of metal are also fixed to each other by YAG welding and fixed to the casing 260 by YAG welding.
[0045]
FIG. 8A is an enlarged perspective view of the end portion of the first ferrule 220, and FIG. 8B is an end view of the first ferrule 220. The fiber end faces E11 to E14 are arranged at equal intervals on a circumference R virtually formed on the end face 221. That is, the fiber end face E11 and the fiber end face E14 are arranged point-symmetrically with respect to the center CP of the circumference R, and the fiber end face E12 and the fiber end face E13 are also arranged point-symmetrically with respect to the center CP of the circumference R. . Here, the circumference R has a central axis CA common to the first fiber unit 20.
[0046]
The end face 231 of the second ferrule 230 is also in the same state as the end face 221 of the first ferrule 220. That is, the fiber end faces E21 to E24 are arranged at equal intervals on a circumference virtually formed on the end face 221 around the central axis CA.
[0047]
  FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the optical module 210. The fiber end face E12 and the fiber end face E21 are arranged at opposite positions across the central axis, and the laser light having the wavelength λ2 that is the transmission wavelength band of the bandpass filter 82IL11 is coupled from the optical fiber F12 to the optical fiber F21, and similarly, laser light having a wavelength λ2.IL12 is coupled from the optical fiber F14 to the optical fiber F23. On the other hand, a laser beam having a wavelength λ1 that is a reflection wavelength band of the bandpass filter 82IL21 is coupled from the optical fiber F24 to the optical fiber F21, and similarly, laser light having a wavelength λ1.IL22 is coupled from optical fiber F22 to optical fiber F23. That is, the laser beams IL11 and IL21 having the wavelengths λ1 and λ2 can be combined and emitted to the optical fiber F21, and the laser beams IL12 and IL22 having the wavelengths λ1 and λ2 can be combined and emitted to the optical fiber F23. it can.
[0048]
Note that the optical module 210 of the third embodiment functions in the same manner as the optical module 10 of the first embodiment for laser light of wavelength λ2, and the optical fiber F11 is coupled to the optical fiber F22, and the optical fiber F13. Are coupled to the optical fiber F24.
[0049]
FIGS. 10A to 10D show modified examples of the first ferrule 220. FIG. In the case of the ferrule 220B of the first modified example shown in FIG. 10A, as in the case of FIG. 4A, six fiber end faces E are provided. The fiber end faces E are arranged at equal intervals on a circumference R virtually formed around the central axis CA at the ferrule end. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the 2nd ferrule arrange | positioned facing when assembled as an optical module is also in the same state. As a result, the optical signal is coupled between one of the fiber end faces E of the first ferrule 220B and the corresponding fiber end face on the second ferrule (not shown) side disposed at the opposite position across the central axis CA. It becomes possible.
[0050]
In the case of the ferrule 220C of the second modification shown in FIG. 10 (b), as in the case of FIG. 4 (b), a pair of fiber end faces Ea disposed opposite to the inner circumference R1, and the outer A pair of fiber end faces Eb arranged opposite to each other on the circumference R2, and the four fiber end faces Ea, Eb are arranged in a line. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the 2nd ferrule arrange | positioned facing when assembled as an optical module is also in the same state. As a result, between the fiber end faces Ea, Eb of any of the first ferrules 220C and the corresponding fiber end faces on the second ferrule (not shown) side disposed at opposite positions with the central axis CA in between Bonding is possible.
[0051]
In the case of the ferrule 220D of the third modified example shown in FIG. 10 (c), as in the case of FIG. 4 (c), two pairs of fiber end faces Ea disposed opposite to the inner circumference R1 and the outer side And two pairs of fiber end faces Eb disposed opposite to each other on the circumference R2. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the 2nd ferrule arrange | positioned facing when assembled as an optical module is also in the same state. As a result, between the fiber end faces Ea, Eb of any of the first ferrules 220C and the corresponding fiber end faces on the second ferrule (not shown) side disposed at opposite positions with the central axis CA in between Bonding is possible.
[0052]
In the case of the ferrule 220E of the fourth modified example shown in FIG. 10 (d), as in the case of FIG. 4 (d), two pairs of fiber end faces Ea arranged opposite to each other on the inner circumference R1, and the middle 4 pairs of fiber end faces Eb arranged opposite to each other on the circumference R2, and two pairs of fiber end faces Ec arranged opposite to the outer circumference R3. Here, the inner circumference R1, the middle circumference R2, and the outer circumference R3 share the central axis CA, and each pair of the fiber end faces Ea to Ec are opposed to each other across the central axis CA. Are arranged. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the 2nd ferrule arrange | positioned facing when assembled as an optical module is also in the same state. As a result, light is transmitted between any one of the fiber end faces Ea, Eb, Ec of the first ferrule 220D and the corresponding fiber end face on the second ferrule (not shown) side disposed at the opposite position across the central axis CA. Signal coupling becomes possible.
[0053]
[Fourth Embodiment]
Hereinafter, an optical module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The optical module according to the fourth embodiment is a modification of the optical module according to the first embodiment (particularly the one shown in FIG. 4B).
[0054]
FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a main part of the optical module according to the fourth embodiment. In the case of this optical module, a step groove-like recess 321a is formed on the butting surface 321 of the first fiber unit 20, and the four fiber end faces Ea and Eb are exposed in the recess 321a. In this case, the position of the first pair of fiber end faces Ea (that is, the position of the circumference R1 in FIG. 4B) is the position of the second pair of fiber end faces Eb (ie, the position of the circumference R2 of FIG. 4B). ) That is, the latter fiber end surface Eb is disposed at a position closer to the first lens L1 of the first collimator unit 40. As described above, the reason why the arrangement of the fiber end faces Ea and Eb is changed with respect to the direction of the central axis CA is that the spherical aberration of the first lens L1, in this case, the phenomenon that the imaging position becomes closer to the lens side as the distance from the optical axis increases. Is corrected.
[0055]
Although not described in detail, a groove-like recess 331a for correcting the spherical aberration of the second lens L2 is also formed on the abutting surface of the second fiber unit 30 (see FIG. 12 described later). .
[0056]
  FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams for explaining the operation of the optical module of the fourth embodiment. When the mirror 81 is not inserted between the collimator units 40 and 50 as in FIG. 12A, the laser light from the outer optical fiber F31 is coupled to the inverted outer optical fiber F44. The laser light from the inner optical fiber F32 is coupled to the inverted inner optical fiber F43. At this time, each laser beam from each of the optical fibers F31 and F32 is accurately collimated through the first lens L1, crosses the central axis CA, and then passes through the second lens L2 to the end face of each of the optical fibers F44 and F43. Focus accurately. When the mirror 81 is inserted between the collimator units 40 and 50 as in the case of FIG. 12B, the laser light from the outer optical fiber F31 is coupled to the outer optical fiber F34 facing to the inner side. The laser light from the optical fiber F32 is coupled to the opposed inner optical fiber F33. At this time, each laser beam from each of the optical fibers F31 and F32 is accurately collimated through the first lens L1, reflected by the mirror 81 so as to cross the central axis CA, and again through the first lens L1.F 34 , F 33Focus exactly on the end face.
[0057]
According to the optical module of the fourth embodiment described above, the signal light from the pair of optical fibers F31 and F32 is simultaneously switched to one of the pair of optical fibers F44 and F43 and the pair of optical fibers F34 and F33. Can do. Moreover, since the light can be accurately condensed on the end faces of the optical fibers F44, F43, F34, and F33, insertion loss due to the optical module can be reduced.
[0058]
FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B are a plan view and a side view for explaining an end face processing apparatus for manufacturing the optical module of the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. This end surface processing apparatus includes a slide stage 90 that moves together with the fiber unit 20 (30) while fixing the fiber unit 20 (30), and a butting surface 321 of the fiber unit 20 (30) that is disposed facing the slide stage 90. And a polishing head 91 for polishing (331). The fiber unit 20 (30) on the slide stage 90 is manufactured by molding an engineering plastic with a mold, and is symmetrical with respect to four optical fibers F31 to F34 (F41 to F44) arranged in parallel. A pair of guide holes 23 (33) is formed at this position. Further, the abutting surface 321 (331) of the fiber unit 20 (30) is processed into a smooth flat surface perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical fibers F31 to F34 (F41 to F44) by polishing.
[0059]
The slide stage 90 can be moved in the horizontal AB direction at a predetermined speed by being driven by the stage driving device 92. Here, the moving direction AB of the slide stage 90 coincides with the extending direction of the guide hole 23 (33) provided in the fiber unit 20 (30). The polishing head 91 includes a circular polishing disk 94 rotatably supported by the head main body 93, a rotation driving device 95 that is connected to a rotation shaft 94a of the polishing disk 94 and rotates the polishing disk 94, and the polishing head 91 is a fiber. And a pair of guide pins 96 for guiding the unit 20 (30).
[0060]
The outer diameter of each guide pin 96 coincides with the inner diameter of each guide hole 23 (33). The interval W between the pair of guide pins 96 is equal to the interval between the pair of guide holes 23 (33). Further, the center line CL between the axes of the guide pins 96 passes through the thickness center of the polishing board 94. Further, the center line CL is in the same plane as the rotating shaft 94a of the polishing board 94 and is perpendicular to the same. Accordingly, when the slide stage 90 moves in the AB direction and the fiber unit 20 (30) approaches the polishing head 91, both guide pins 96 are inserted into the guide holes 23 (33), and the polishing head 91 is moved to the fiber unit 20. (30) is precisely aligned. When the fiber unit 20 (30) is further brought close to the polishing head 91, the abutting surface 321 (331) of the fiber unit 20 (30) is partially ground and polished by the polishing surface 94b provided on the rotating polishing board 94. . At this time, since the center line CL between the axes of the guide pins 96 passes through the thickness center of the polishing board 94, the optical fibers F32 and F33 (F42 and F43) on the center side of the abutting surface 321 (331) are exposed. Only the portion is ground and polished, and the portions where the outer optical fibers F31 and F34 (F41 and F44) are exposed are not ground. As a result, a step-shaped recess 321a as shown in FIG. 11 is formed, and the end faces Ea of the optical fibers F32 and F33 (F42 and F43) are exposed in the recess 321a. When processing the fiber unit 20 (30), the polishing board 94 is replaced in several stages. When the polishing disk 94 is replaced, particles such as diamond paste forming the polishing surface 94b of the polishing disk 94 are gradually made fine so that the end faces of the optical fibers F32 and F33 (F42 and F43) are finished in a mirror shape.
[0061]
In the above processing, the distance between the pair of optical fibers F32 and F33 is about 250 μm, and the thickness of the polishing board 94 is about 500 μm or less. The radius of the polishing board 94 is about 2 cm or more.
[0062]
[Fifth Embodiment]
Hereinafter, an optical module according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The optical module according to the fifth embodiment is a modification of the optical module according to the fourth embodiment.
[0063]
FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating a main part of the optical module according to the fifth embodiment. In this optical module, a concave portion 421a having a V-shaped cross section is formed on the abutting surface 421 of the first fiber unit 20, and the four fiber end faces Ea and Eb are exposed in the concave portion 421a. Also in this case, the fiber end surface Ea on the center side is disposed behind the fiber end surface Eb on the outer side. In this way, the spherical aberration of the first lens L1 can be corrected by changing the arrangement of the fiber end faces Ea and Eb with respect to the direction of the central axis CA. Furthermore, each fiber end surface Ea, Eb is formed with an inclination corresponding to the inclination angle α of the recess 421a. By providing such an inclination, it is possible to prevent propagating light from being Fresnel-reflected at the fiber end faces Ea and Eb and return to the light source side. Such reflected light induces deterioration of the light source and an increase in insertion loss. I try not to. Here, considering that the refractive index of the optical fiber is 1.4 to 1.5 and the refractive index of the core is set to be 0.2 to 0.3% larger, the total reflection critical angle is 4 to Therefore, in the specific manufacturing example, the inclination angle α of the fiber ends Ea and Eb is set to 8 ° to prevent the propagation of the return light.
[0064]
Although not described in detail, a concave portion 431a having a V-shaped cross section for correcting the spherical aberration of the second lens L2 is also formed on the abutting surface of the second fiber unit 30 (see FIG. 15 described later). ). This recess 431a has the same inclination, and can prevent propagation light from being reflected by the fiber end face and returning to the light source side.
[0065]
FIGS. 15A and 15B are diagrams illustrating the operation of the optical module of the fifth embodiment. When the mirror 81 is not inserted between the collimator units 40 and 50 as in the case of FIG. 15A, the laser beams from the pair of optical fibers F31 and F32 are symmetrical with respect to the central axis CA. Coupled to optical fibers F44 and F43. At this time, the laser beams from the optical fibers F31 and F32 are accurately focused on the end faces of the optical fibers F44 and F43 through the first and second lenses L1 and L2. When the mirror 81 is inserted between the collimator units 40 and 50 as in FIG. 15B, the laser beams from the pair of optical fibers F31 and F32 are symmetrical optical fibers with the central axis CA interposed therebetween. Combined with F34 and F33. Also at this time, the laser beams from the optical fibers F31 and F32 are accurately focused on the end faces of the optical fibers F34 and F33 via the first lens L1 and the like.
[0066]
According to the optical module of the fifth embodiment described above, since the light can be accurately condensed on the end faces of the optical fibers F44, F43, F34, and F33, insertion loss due to the optical module can be reduced. In addition, return light from the optical module can be prevented, and the characteristics of the optical module can be improved.
[0067]
FIG. 16A is a plan view for explaining an end face processing apparatus for manufacturing the optical module of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 14, and FIG. 16B is an end face processing apparatus of FIG. It is the elements on larger scale of this polishing head. This end face processing apparatus is a modification of the end face processing apparatus shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, and the polishing surface 194b of the polishing board 194 that rotates around the rotation shaft 194a is formed of two surfaces, and the center of thickness is obtained. The vertex TE is formed so as to protrude most at the position of TC. The inclination angle of each polishing surface 194b with respect to the plane perpendicular to the thickness center TC corresponds to the inclination angle α of the recess 421a shown in FIG. 14, and is about 8 ° in a specific manufacturing example.
[0068]
  In the illustrated end face processing apparatus, when the fiber unit 20 (30) is close to the polishing head 91, the polishing head 91 is aligned with the fiber unit 20 (30) by the guide pins 96 and the guide holes 23 (33). The abutting surface 321 (331) of the fiber unit 20 (30) is partially ground and polished by the polishing board 194. At this time, a V-shaped recess 421a as shown in FIG. 14 is formed on the abutting surface 321 (331) by the polishing surface 194b having a V-shaped cross section. When processing the fiber unit 20 (30), the polishing board 194 is replaced in several stages. When exchanging the polishing disk 194, the diamond paste particles forming the polishing surface 194b of the polishing disk 194 are gradually made finer so that the optical fibers F31 to F34 (F 41 ~ F 44) So that the end face of) is mirror finished.
[0069]
[Sixth Embodiment]
Hereinafter, an optical module according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The optical module according to the sixth embodiment is a modification of the optical module according to the first embodiment.
[0070]
FIG. 17 is a perspective view for explaining a main part of the optical module according to the sixth embodiment. In the case of this optical module, a concave or conical recess 521 a is formed on the abutting surface 521 of the first fiber unit 20. In the example shown in FIG. 18A, a concave concave portion 521a is formed, and in the example shown in FIG. 18B, a conical concave portion 521a is formed. The four fiber end faces E11 to E14 exposed in the recess 521a are commonly formed with an inclination of an inclination angle α toward the central axis CA. By providing such an inclination, the propagation light is prevented from being reflected by the fiber end faces E11 to E14 and returning to the light source side.
[0071]
Although not described in detail, a concave surface or a conical concave portion for correcting the spherical aberration of the second lens L2 is also formed on the abutting surface of the second fiber unit 30. This recess also has the same inclination, and can prevent propagation light from being reflected at the end face of each fiber and returning to the light source side.
[0072]
FIGS. 19A and 19B are diagrams illustrating an operation example of the optical module according to the sixth embodiment. Laser light from the pair of optical fibers F11 and F13 is coupled to optical fibers F22 and F24 disposed at symmetrical positions with the central axis CA interposed therebetween. At this time, the signal lights from the end faces of the optical fibers F11 and F13 exposed in the recess 521a are accurately transmitted to the end faces of the optical fibers F22 and F24 exposed in the recess 531a via the first and second lenses L1 and L2, respectively. Focus on.
[0073]
When a mirror is inserted between the first and second collimator units 40 and 50, the laser beams from the pair of optical fibers F11 and F13 are arranged at symmetrical positions with the central axis CA interposed therebetween. Each is coupled to F12 efficiently.
[0074]
FIG. 20 is a plan view for explaining an end surface processing apparatus for manufacturing the optical module of the sixth embodiment shown in FIGS. 17 and 18A. This end face processing apparatus includes a polishing head 291 in which the structure of the polishing head 91 of the end face processing apparatus shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B is changed. The polishing head 291 includes a spherical polishing member 294 that is rotatably supported by the head main body 93, a rotation driving device 95 that is connected to a rotation shaft 294a of the polishing member 294, and rotates the polishing member 294, and a polishing head 291. A pair of guide pins 96 for guiding the fiber unit 20 are provided.
[0075]
Here, the rotating shaft 294 a of the polishing member 294 extends perpendicularly to the abutting surface 521 of the fiber unit 20 and coincides with the center line CL between the axes of the guide pins 96 that are separated by the interval W. The center of the spherical tip 294c provided on the polishing member 294 is disposed on the center line CL. When the fiber unit 20 is brought close to the polishing head 291, the butt surface 521 of the fiber unit 20 is ground and polished by the spherical tip 294c of the rotating polishing member 294. At this time, since the center line CL between the axes of the guide pins 96 passes through the center line of equal distance from each of the optical fibers F11 to F14, the center of the abutting surface 521 is processed and a spherical surface as shown in FIG. A concave portion 521a is formed. The end faces E11 to E14 of the optical fibers F11 to F14 are exposed in the recess 521a. When the fiber unit 20 is processed, the recess 521 is gradually finished by performing grinding and polishing in several stages while exchanging the polishing member 294.
[0076]
FIG. 21 is a view for explaining a modification of the apparatus of FIG. 20, that is, an end face processing apparatus for manufacturing the optical module shown in FIGS. 17 and 18B. In this apparatus, in order to form the conical recess 521a shown in FIG. 18B, a polishing member 394 having a conical tip 394c at the tip of the rotating shaft 394a is used. In this case, the axis of the rotation shaft 394a and the cone axis of the tip 394c are made to coincide. Such a polishing member 394 is replaced with a chip 294c in FIG.
[0077]
FIG. 22 is a modification of the polishing members 294 and 394 shown in FIGS. In the case of the polishing member 494 shown in FIG. 22A, a hemispherical tip 494c is provided at the tip of the rotating shaft 494a. Since such a polishing member 494 also forms a spherical polishing surface by rotation, a recess 521a similar to FIG. 18A can be formed as in the case of the polishing member 294 shown in FIG. In the case of the polishing member 594 shown in FIG. 22B, a disk-shaped tip 594c is provided at the tip of the rotating shaft 594a. Since such a polishing member 594 also forms a spherical polishing surface by rotation, a recess 521a similar to FIG. 18A can be formed as in the case of the polishing member 294 shown in FIG. Further, in the case of the polishing member 694 shown in FIG. 22C, a triangular plate-shaped chip 694c is provided at the tip of the rotating shaft 694a. Since such a polishing member 694 forms a conical polishing surface by rotation, a recess 521a similar to that in FIG. 18B can be formed as in the case of the polishing member 394 shown in FIG.
[0078]
[Seventh Embodiment]
Hereinafter, an optical module according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. The optical module according to the seventh embodiment is a modification of the optical module according to the sixth embodiment.
[0079]
FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating a main part of the optical module according to the seventh embodiment. Also in this optical module, a concave portion 621a is formed on the butting surface 621 of the first fiber unit 20, and six fiber end surfaces E61 to E66 arranged on the same circumference are exposed in the concave portion 621a. In the example shown in FIG. 24A, the fiber end surfaces E61 to E66 arranged on the same circumference are exposed in the concave-shaped concave portion 621a. In the example shown in FIG. 24B, six fiber end faces E61 to E66 arranged on the same circumference are exposed in the conical recess 621a. In FIGS. 24A and 24B, only the fiber end faces E64 to E66 on one side and the corresponding optical fibers F64 to F66 are shown.
[0080]
FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the optical module according to the seventh embodiment. When the mirror 81 is disposed on the end face of the first collimator unit 40 as in FIG. 25, the laser light from the fiber end face E66 enters the fiber end face E63 at the opposite position via the lens L1 and the mirror 81. . Similarly, laser light from the fiber end face E65 enters the fiber end face E62, and laser light from the fiber end face E64 enters the fiber end face E61. Also at this time, the laser beams from the fiber end faces E64 to E66 are accurately focused on the fiber end faces E61 to E63 at symmetrical positions.
[0081]
[Eighth Embodiment]
Hereinafter, an optical module according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The optical module according to the eighth embodiment is a modification of the optical module according to the seventh embodiment.
[0082]
FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating a main part of the optical module according to the eighth embodiment. Also in the case of this optical module, a concave surface or a conical concave portion 721a is formed on the butting surface 721 of the first fiber unit 20. As in the case of FIG. 4D, a total of 16 fiber end faces E7a to E7p arranged on three circumferences are exposed in the recess 721a. As shown in the figure, when the mirror 81 is arranged on the end face of the first collimator unit 40, the laser light from the fiber end face E7a enters the fiber end face E7p at the opposite position via the lens L1 and the mirror 81. Similarly, laser light from the fiber end face E7b is incident on the fiber end face E7o, and laser light from the fiber end face E7c is incident on the fiber end face E7n. Further, the laser beams from the other fiber end faces E7d to E7h are incident on the remaining fiber end faces E7i to E7m at the opposite positions. At this time, the laser beams from the fiber end faces E7a to E7h are accurately focused on the fiber end faces E7i to E7p at symmetrical positions.
[0083]
[Ninth Embodiment]
The optical module according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described below. The optical module according to the ninth embodiment is a modification of the optical module according to the eighth embodiment.
[0084]
In the case of this optical module, as shown in FIG. 27, a mirror 881 is movable in the vertical direction, and includes an actuator 891 that raises and lowers the mirror 881 and a controller 892 that controls the operation of the actuator 891. Here, the actuator 891 can be composed of a stepping motor, a piezo element, a MEMS, or the like, and can raise and lower the mirror 881 by a necessary amount at a desired timing.
[0085]
FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating the structure of the mirror 881. The four reflecting surfaces 881a to 881d each have a slight difference in inclination. Thus, four angles for reflecting the signal light from the group of fiber end faces E7a, E7b, E7e, E7f in FIG. 27 can be selected. For example, when the reflecting surface 881a is arranged on the central axis CA in FIG. 27, the signal light from the four fiber end faces E7a, E7b, E7e, E7f is respectively transmitted to the group of fiber end faces E7p, E7o, E7l, E7k as usual. It can be made incident. Further, when the reflecting surface 881b is arranged on the central axis CA in FIG. 27, signal light from the four fiber end faces E7a, E7b, E7e, E7f is incident on the group of fiber end faces E7h, E7g, E7d, E7c, respectively. be able to. Further, when the reflecting surface 881c is arranged on the central axis CA in FIG. 27, signal light from the four fiber end faces E7a, E7b, E7e, E7f is incident on the group of fiber end faces E7n, E7m, E7j, E7i, respectively. be able to. Further, when the reflecting surface 881d is arranged on the central axis CA in FIG. 27, the signal light from the four fiber end faces E7a, E7b, E7e, E7f is respectively transmitted to the original group of fiber end faces E7f, E7e, E7b, E7a. It can be switched and made incident.
[0086]
In other words, by sending an appropriate control signal from the controller 892 to the actuator 891, the position of the mirror 881 can be controlled, and the signal light from the first group of fiber end faces E7a, E7b, E7e, E7f can be transmitted by itself or The second group of fiber end faces E7p, E7o, E7l, E7k, the third group of fiber end faces E7h, E7g, E7d, E7c, and the fourth group of fiber end faces E7n, E7m, E7j, E7i it can.
[0087]
In this case, the first circumference for determining the position of the inner fiber end faces E7f, E7g, E7j, E7k and the positions of the intermediate fiber end faces E7b, E7c, E7e, E7h, E7i, E7l, E7n, E7o The arrangement of the fiber end faces constituting each group is determined by setting the second circumference to be determined and the third circumference to determine the positions of the outer fiber end faces E7a, E7d, E7m, E7p to appropriate radii. Can be completely rectangular and equal. Thereby, even if the position of the mirror 881 is switched, low-loss optical coupling can be realized between the corresponding fiber end faces constituting the pair of groups.
[0088]
【The invention's effect】
As is clear from the above description, according to the multi-core optical collimator according to the present invention, the fiber unit arranges and fixes the end faces of the plurality of fibers on a predetermined circumference perpendicular to the predetermined direction. The end faces of the fibers can be equally arranged with respect to the center axis of the predetermined circumference, especially when there are many fibers. Therefore, it is possible to increase the symmetry of the arrangement of each fiber and bring the characteristics of the collimated light closer, so that two such multi-core optical collimators can be combined to have various functions such as optical branching and multiplexing as an optical module. In this case, precise operation can be achieved with low loss.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional structural view from above conceptually illustrating an optical module according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional structural view from the side.
FIG. 2A is a perspective view illustrating a state of a butting surface of a first fiber unit, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view illustrating a state of a butting surface of a second fiber unit.
FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view conceptually illustrating a butting surface of the first fiber unit.
FIGS. 4A to 4D show modified examples of the first fiber unit in the first embodiment. FIGS.
FIG. 5A is a sectional structural view from above conceptually illustrating the optical module of the second embodiment, and FIG. 5B is a sectional structural view from the side.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view conceptually illustrating an optical module according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a partial longitudinal sectional view conceptually illustrating an optical module according to a third embodiment.
8A is an enlarged perspective view of the end portion of the first ferrule, and FIG. 8B is an end view of the first ferrule.
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the optical module in FIG. 7;
FIGS. 10A to 10D show modified examples of the first ferrule in the third embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a main part of an optical module according to a fourth embodiment.
FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams illustrating the operation of the optical module according to the fourth embodiment. FIGS.
13A is a diagram showing a planar structure of an end face processing apparatus for manufacturing a part of the optical module of FIG. 12, and FIG. 13B is a side view structure of the end face processing apparatus shown in FIG. FIG.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating a main part of an optical module according to a fifth embodiment.
FIGS. 15A and 15B are diagrams illustrating the operation of the optical module according to the fifth embodiment. FIGS.
16A is a view showing a planar structure of an end face processing apparatus for manufacturing a part of the optical module of FIG. 15, and FIG. 16B is an enlarged view showing a waist portion of the apparatus shown in FIG. FIG.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating a main part of an optical module according to a sixth embodiment.
18A and 18B are side cross-sectional views conceptually illustrating an example of the shape of the butting surface of the first fiber unit in FIG.
FIGS. 19A and 19B are sectional structural views from above and from the side for explaining an operation example of the optical module according to the sixth embodiment. FIGS.
20 is a diagram showing a planar structure of an end face processing apparatus for manufacturing a part of the optical module of FIG. 18;
FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the end surface processing apparatus shown in FIG. 20;
22 (a) to 22 (c) are perspective views showing modifications of the end surface processing apparatus shown in FIGS. 20 and 21. FIG.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating a main part of an optical module according to a seventh embodiment.
24A and 24B are side cross-sectional views conceptually illustrating an example of the shape of the butting surface of the first fiber unit shown in FIG.
FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the optical module according to the seventh embodiment.
FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating a main part of an optical module according to an eighth embodiment.
FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an optical module according to a ninth embodiment.
28 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a mirror 881 included in FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
10 Optical module
20 First fiber unit
30 Second fiber unit
23,33 Guide hole
40 First collimator unit
50 Second collimator unit
60 guide pins
70 clips
81 mirror
82 Bandpass filter
881 Mirror
891 Actuator
892 controller

Claims (17)

A fiber unit that holds the end portions of the plurality of fibers in parallel in a predetermined direction, and fixes and arranges the end faces of the plurality of fibers on a predetermined circumference perpendicular to the predetermined direction;
A collimator lens disposed to face the fiber unit;
A multi-core optical collimator comprising :
The end faces of the plurality of fibers are multi-core optical collimators formed on the surface of the recess.   The multi-core optical collimator according to claim 1, wherein a central axis of the predetermined circumference coincides with an optical axis of the collimator lens.   3. The fiber unit according to claim 1, wherein the fiber unit holds end portions of a plurality of pairs of fibers in parallel with the predetermined direction, and fixes and fixes the end faces of the plurality of pairs of fibers on the predetermined circumference. Any one of the multi-core optical collimators.   4. The multi-core optical collimator according to claim 3, wherein the end faces of each pair of the plurality of pairs of fibers are arranged symmetrically with respect to a center of the predetermined circumference.   The fiber unit holds the end portions of a plurality of pairs of fibers in parallel with the predetermined direction, and the end faces of one pair of fibers are arranged on the first circumference as the plurality of fibers on the first circumference. The multi-core according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the end faces of the other pair of fibers are arranged and fixed on a second circumference that is coaxial with the predetermined circumference and has a large radius. Optical collimator.   The end surfaces provided on the one pair of fibers are arranged symmetrically across the center of the predetermined circumference, and the end faces provided on the other pair of fibers are arranged symmetrically across the center of the predetermined circumference. The multi-core optical collimator according to claim 5.   A center axis of the predetermined circumference which is the first circumference coincides with an optical axis of the collimator lens, and the second circumference is closer to the collimator lens than the first circumference. The multi-core optical collimator according to claim 5, wherein the multi-core optical collimator is disposed.   The multi-core optical collimator according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein an end face of each fiber is inclined at a predetermined inclination angle with respect to a central axis of the predetermined circumference.   The end face of each fiber is formed on the surface of the concave portion which is any one of a concave shape, a conical surface shape, a V-shaped cross section, and a step groove shape formed symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the predetermined circumference. The multi-core optical collimator according to claim 8. A first fiber unit for holding end portions of a plurality of fibers in parallel in a predetermined direction, and fixing and arranging end surfaces of the plurality of fibers on a predetermined circumference perpendicular to the predetermined direction; A first multi-core optical collimator having a first collimator lens disposed opposite to
A second fiber unit that holds the end portions of the plurality of fibers in parallel in a predetermined direction, and fixes and arranges the end faces of the plurality of fibers on a predetermined circumference perpendicular to the predetermined direction; and the second fiber unit A second multi-core optical collimator having a second collimator lens disposed opposite to
Guide means for aligning and holding the first and second multi-core optical collimators so that the center axes of the respective predetermined circumferences coincide with each other;
An optical module comprising :
In each of the first and second multi-core optical collimators, an end face of each fiber is formed on a concave surface .   The optical module according to claim 10, wherein a flat optical element is detachably inserted between the first multi-core optical collimator and the second multi-core optical collimator.   12. The optical module according to claim 11, wherein in each of the first and second multi-core optical collimators, an end face of each fiber is inclined at a predetermined inclination angle with respect to a central axis of the predetermined circumference.   In each of the first and second multi-core optical collimators, the end surface of each fiber has a concave shape, a conical surface shape, a V-shaped cross section, and a step formed symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the predetermined circumference. The optical module according to claim 12, wherein the optical module is formed on the concave surface having any one of groove shapes.   The center axis of the predetermined circumference coincides with the optical axis of the collimator lens, and the end face of each fiber of the first multi-core optical collimator has the second multi-core across the center axis of the predetermined circumference. The optical module according to claim 12, wherein the optical module is disposed at a position symmetrical to an end face of each fiber of the optical collimator.   The first and second fiber units each hold the end portions of a plurality of pairs of fibers in parallel with the predetermined direction, and the end faces of one pair of fibers are the predetermined circumferences with the plurality of fibers as the first circumference. The end face of the other pair of fibers is arranged and fixed on a second circumference that is coaxial with the predetermined circumference and has a large radius. Any one of the optical modules.   The center axis of the predetermined circumference coincides with the optical axis of the collimator lens, and end faces provided on the one pair of fibers of the first multi-core optical collimator sandwich the center axis of the predetermined circumference. The second multi-core optical collimator is disposed at a position symmetrical to the end face of the corresponding fiber, and the end face provided on the other pair of fibers of the first multi-core optical collimator is the center of the predetermined circumference The optical module according to claim 15, wherein the optical module is disposed at a position symmetrical to an end face of a corresponding fiber of the second multi-core optical collimator across an axis.   A center axis of the predetermined circumference which is the first circumference coincides with an optical axis of the collimator lens, and the second circumference is closer to the collimator lens than the first circumference. The optical module according to claim 16, which is arranged as follows.

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