Optical connecting component and optical connecting structure

Abstract

The optical connecting component (100a) of the present invention is an optical connecting component connected to another optical connecting component (100b), and the optical connecting component comprises an optical waveguide component (101), an alignment component (102) for fixing the optical waveguide component, and a magnetic structure (103) integrated with the alignment component (102). A positioning structure (1041, 1042) is provided at the connection end surface of the alignment component (102), and the positioning structure is used to determine the relative position between the connection end surface and the connection end surface of the alignment component provided in the other optical connecting component. With this configuration, the present invention can provide a compact optical connecting component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an optical connecting component and an optical connecting structure which are intended to be reduced in size and use magnets to hold optical waveguide components and press the optical waveguide components against each other. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the increase in traffic due to video services, the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud services, etc., there is a need for a significant expansion of communication capacity within or between data centers. In order to achieve the expansion of communication capacity, instead of the conventional short-distance communication method using electrical signals, an optical interconnection technology using optical transmission technology used in optical communications, etc. is being introduced. In this optical interconnection technology, a form of optical transceiver called a pluggable transceiver is often used. In addition, with the recent demand for increased communication capacity, the number of channels of optical transceivers that construct optical interconnects is increasing. A large number of optical fibers need to be installed on the board. In order to connect a large number of optical fibers on the board or at the edge of the board to achieve space saving, it is necessary to reduce the size of the multi-core optical connector.

[0003] In a pluggable transceiver, various optical components represented by optical transmitters / receivers, circuit components for controlling the optical components, printed circuit boards, etc. are housed in a metal housing of the pluggable transceiver. In addition, the housing is provided with a guide structure that allows an optical connector to be inserted or pulled out from the outside. Inserting an optical connector that matches the guide structure enables the optical connector to be optically coupled with the optical transmitter / receiver in the housing.

[0004] As mentioned above, with the need for increased communication capacity, the size of the pluggable transceiver is getting smaller year by year, and the size of the housing is reduced to the same extent as the guide structure for the optical connector. Therefore, in order to further reduce the size of the housing in the future, it is necessary to reduce the size of the guide mechanism, that is, the size of the optical connector matched with the guide mechanism is further reduced. In addition, there is also an application of connecting optical fibers to each other in a small housing, and even for such an application, the optical connector is required to be made as small as possible.

[0005] In addition, it is considered that the introduction of optical interconnection on the board while eliminating the housing will make progress in the future. Even in this case, in order to reduce the area occupied by the optical connection components on the board, the demand for compact optical connectors is increasing.

[0006] Generally, as an optical connector for connecting optical fibers, such as an optical connector for a pluggable transceiver, in the case of a single-core connector, a connector using a cylindrical ferrule is known, which is represented by an SC connector or an LC connector. In addition, in the case of a multi-core connector, an MT connector and an MPO connector based on the MT connector are known (Non-Patent Document 2).

[0007] The similarity between a multi-core connector and a single-core connector is that a multi-core connector is used as an interface for a pluggable transceiver and is particularly widely used in multi-channel parallel transmission applications. As shown in non-patent document 1, in a single-core connector, the optical fibers are accommodated and aligned in a cylindrical ferrule component, the optical fibers are connected in a confronting relationship, and a split sleeve is provided between the optical fibers to perform positioning. That is, separate components are used for the optical fiber alignment component (single-core ferrule) and the high-precision positioning component (split sleeve) between the ferrules.

[0008] On the other hand, in a multi-core connector, a resin-molded ferrule having a plurality of holes for accommodating optical fibers and two guide holes for accommodating / inserting guide pins is used. Fiber connection is performed by combining and fixing a plurality of optical fibers in the ferrule and fitting a guide pin provided in one ferrule into another ferrule. At this time, since the optical fiber accommodating hole and the guide pin hole are excellent in terms of aperture accuracy and hole position accuracy, high-precision positioning between optical fibers can be achieved.

[0009] In addition, in each optical connector, the connection end face of the optical fiber and the ferrule is polished. For example, in the MT connector of the multi-core connector, the end face is right-angled. In the MPO connector, the end face is inclined.

[0010] In addition, in a multi-core connector, the end face of the optical fiber is usually polished to protrude slightly from the end face of the ferrule. In order to prevent Fresnel reflection between the optical fiber and the air layer on the connection end face, for example, in an MT connector, the ferrules are pressed against each other by a clamp, and the connection end faces are filled with a resin that matches in refractive index. In addition, for example, in an MPO connector, the connection end face is formed obliquely, and a coil spring is provided behind the corresponding ferrule to achieve a physical contact (PC) connection, that is, a close contact connection between the cores, so that the ferrules in an opposing relationship can be pressed with sufficient force.

[0011] In addition, when implementing optical interconnection, it is necessary to connect the optical elements constituting the optical transceiver to a plurality of optical fibers or optical waveguide devices containing polymers, silica glass, etc. as core materials. Conventionally, they are positioned with high precision using active alignment, and then permanently fixed and integrated using adhesives, etc. In addition, a structure for easily connecting a connector is also under study, in which the optical connector technology described previously is transferred to the connection between the optical element and a plurality of optical fibers or optical waveguides on a board without performing active alignment.

[0012] For example, by integrating optical fibers or optical waveguides into optical connection components using MT ferrules, etc., and arranging a positioning structure that engages with the guide pins of the MT ferrules on the optical component side, a multi-core connector connection with an optical component can be achieved. Even in such a connector connection with an optical component, since the optical components themselves are becoming smaller and denser year by year, it is necessary to further reduce the size of the connection components.

[0013] Citation List

[0014] Non-patent literature

[0015] Non-patent document 1: Ryo Nagase, Kazuo Hokari, "Optical Connectors", NTT Technology Magazine, December 2007, pp.74-78.

[0016] Non-patent document 2: "History of Fiber Optic Physical Contact Connector for Low Insertion and High Return Losses", Ryo Nagase, Yoshiteru Abe, Mitsuru Kihara, Proc. IEEE HISTory of ELectrotechnolgy CONference (HIST ELCON), 2017. Summary of the invention

[0017] Technical issues

[0018] However, since conventional multi-core optical connectors require spring components such as clamps or coil springs, and a mechanical fastening structure for constantly applying the extrusion force of the spring components to the connection end face, there are limitations on reducing the size. In particular, as shown in Non-Patent Document 1 and Non-Patent Document 2, MPO connectors using coil springs require the use of multiple components and housing components to achieve manual push-pull connection while resisting the reaction force of the coil spring. The size of these components is an obstacle to further reducing the size of the connector. In addition, when spring components are used for connector connection with optical elements, clamps or spring components are required to fasten them, and the size of these components becomes an obstacle to reducing the size of the connector connection part.

[0019] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and the present invention aims to provide an optical connecting component and an optical connecting structure which are compact in size and can achieve stable optical connection by applying a squeezing force between connecting end faces without using any mechanical fastening components, any spring components, etc.

[0020] Solutions to the problem

[0021] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the optical connecting component according to the present invention is an optical connecting component connected to another optical connecting component, the optical connecting component includes an optical waveguide component, an alignment component for fixing the optical waveguide component, and a magnetic structure integrated with the alignment component, wherein a positioning structure is arranged on a connecting end face of the alignment component, wherein the positioning structure determines the relative position between the connecting end face and the connecting end face of the alignment component arranged in the other optical connecting component.

[0022] Effects of the Invention

[0023] According to the present invention, a stable optical connection can be achieved, and an optical connection component and an optical connection structure that are compact in size can be achieved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1A is a perspective view showing the optical connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0025] Figure 1B is a perspective view showing the optical connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0026] Figure 2A is a top cross-sectional view showing the optical connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0027] Figure 2Bis a top cross-sectional view showing the optical connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0028] Figure 3A is a top cross-sectional view showing the optical connector fitting structure according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 3B is a top cross-sectional view showing the optical connector fitting structure according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 4A is a top cross-sectional view showing a fiber connecting portion of an optical connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 4B is a top cross-sectional view showing a fiber connecting portion of an optical connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 5A : is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connector before connection according to a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 5B : is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connector according to a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0034] Fig. 6A is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6B is a side sectional view showing an optical connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig. 7A : is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connector according to a third embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0037] Figure 7B is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connector according to a third embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0038] Figure 7C is an enlarged top cross-sectional view showing the optical fiber connection portion of the optical connector according to the third embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0039] Fig. 8A is a perspective view showing an optical connector according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 8B is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connector according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig.9Ais a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Fig. 9B is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Fig. 10A is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Fig. 10B is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Fig.11 1 is a top cross-sectional view showing a fitting portion of an optical connecting structure according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Fig.12 is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a modified example of the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Fig.13 is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a modified example of the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Fig.14A : is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connector according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0049] Fig. 14B is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connector according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0050] Fig.15A is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0051] Fig. 15B is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0052] Fig.16A is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure before connection according to a modified example of the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Fig. 16B is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connection structure according to a modified example of the eighth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0054] Fig.17A is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0055] Fig. 17Bis a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0056] Fig.18A 1 is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0057] Fig.18B : is a top cross-sectional view showing the optical connecting structure according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0058] Fig.19 : is a top cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure before connection according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Fig. 20A : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Fig. 20B : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Fig. 20C : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Fig.20D : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Fig.20E : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Fig.20F : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 20G : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Fig. 20H : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Fig.20I : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Fig. 20J : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 20K : is a connection end face cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connection structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Fig.21A is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Fig.21B is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Fig. 21C is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Fig.21D is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Fig.21E is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Fig.21F is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Fig.22A is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Fig. 22B is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Fig.23A is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Fig. 23B is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Fig.23C is a side cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Fig.24A is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0082] Fig. 24B is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0083] Fig.25A: is a perspective view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0084] Fig.25B : is a perspective view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0085] Fig.26A is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0086] Fig.26B is a perspective view showing the optical connecting structure according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0087] Fig.27A : is a perspective view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0088] Fig.27B : is a perspective view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0089] Fig.28A is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0090] Fig.28B is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0091] Fig.29 : is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure before connection according to a modified example of the twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Fig.30 : is a perspective view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure before connection according to a modified example of the twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Fig.31A is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0094] Fig.31B is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0095] Fig.31C is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0096] Fig.32A is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure before connection according to a modified example of the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Fig.32B is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a modified example of the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0098] Fig.33A 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a connection end face of an optical connection structure according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Fig.33B is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0100] Fig.33C is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0101] Fig.34A is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0102] Fig.34B is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0103] Fig.35A is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure before connection according to a modified example of the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Fig.35B is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure before connection according to a modified example of the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] Fig.36A is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0106] Fig.36B is a perspective view showing the optical connecting structure according to the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0107] Fig.37A 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a connection end surface of an optical connecting structure according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] Fig.37B is a side cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0109] Fig.37C is a side cross-sectional view showing the optical connecting structure according to the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0110] Fig.381 is a top cross-sectional view showing the optical connection structure according to the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention after connection.

[0111] Fig.39A is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Fig.39B 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a connection end surface of an optical connection structure according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] Fig.40 is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to a modified example of the seventeenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] Fig.41 is a perspective view showing an optical connecting structure according to an eighteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Fig.42 is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to an eighteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] Fig.43 is a top cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to an eighteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] Fig.44 is a top cross-sectional view showing an exemplary optical connecting structure according to an eighteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] Fig.45A 1 is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connecting structure according to a nineteenth embodiment of the present invention before connection.

[0119] Fig.45B 1 is a top cross-sectional view showing an optical connection structure according to a nineteenth embodiment of the present invention after connection. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0120] <First Embodiment>

[0121] Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0122] Figure 1A and Figure 1B 1 is a perspective view showing an optical connector 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention before and after connection. In the drawings, plane A is a horizontal plane including the central axis of the optical connector 100. This embodiment is an exemplary optical connection structure using a pair of optical connection components, in which optical fibers are used as optical waveguide components, and the optical fibers are aligned. Figure 2A and Figure 2BIt is a cross-sectional view (hereinafter referred to as a "top cross-sectional view") showing the optical connector 100 before and after connection with plane A as the cross section. In addition, hereinafter, the direction of the optical fiber accommodated in the optical connector according to the present invention is referred to as the "optical fiber longitudinal direction". In addition, hereinafter, a cross-sectional view with a plane perpendicular to plane A as the cross section and including the central axis of the optical connector according to the present invention along the optical fiber longitudinal direction is referred to as a "side cross-sectional view".

[0123] As shown in the drawings, the optical connector 100 includes an optical fiber 101 and a fiber alignment component 102, and in an opposed state, the optical connector 100 enables a positioning structure (fitting structure) provided in the fiber alignment component 102 to achieve positioning so that the optical fibers 101 are connected to each other. As mentioned above, the optical connector 100 is shown as an exemplary optical connection structure. In addition, the optical connector 100 used as an optical connection structure is constructed by connecting two optical connection components 100a and 100b, each of which includes an optical fiber 101, a fiber alignment component 102, and a positioning structure (fitting structure).

[0124] Here, the optical fiber alignment member 102 is provided with at least a plurality of microholes having an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the optical fiber 101 in the optical fiber alignment member 102. The optical fiber 101 whose coating is removed is accommodated in the microhole. The optical fiber 101 and the optical fiber alignment member 102 are fixed with an adhesive. Note that the adhesive is not shown in the drawings. The optical fiber 101 is shown as an exemplary optical waveguide member. Other examples of the optical waveguide member include an optical waveguide, an optical element, and the like.

[0125] Additionally, a plurality of optical fibers 101 are attached to an optical fiber ribbon 104 .

[0126] The optical fiber 101 and the optical fiber alignment member 102 are surface-ground at their connection end faces 105 so as to be in substantially the same plane. In addition, the coupling member 103 capable of accommodating the optical fiber alignment member 102 is arranged so as to surround the periphery of the optical fiber alignment member 102 in the circumferential direction. Here, the circumferential direction of the optical fiber alignment member is a direction along the periphery of the optical fiber alignment member in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber.

[0127] The joining component 103 in this embodiment has an opening portion capable of accommodating the optical fiber alignment component 102 (for example, in the case of a structure based on an MT core, the width is about 2 mm to about 10 mm, the height is about 1 mm to about 5 mm, and the length is about 2 mm to about 10 mm), and the dimensions of the joining component 103 are about 3 mm to about 15 mm in width, about 2 mm to about 10 mm in height, and about 3 mm to about 10 mm in length.

[0128] In addition, the optical fiber alignment component 102 has a fitting structure according to which two metal guide pins 1041 used in a known multi-core ferrule are inserted into guide pin holes 1042 provided in the optical fiber alignment component (ferrule) 102 so as to fit and position the pins. Although in the drawings, the guide pins and the pin holes are only partially provided in the longitudinal direction, the guide pins and the pin holes may be arranged to penetrate in the longitudinal direction of the ferrule. In addition, while the fitting by these guide pins is maintained, since the coupling component 103 is made of a magnet, an attractive force acts so that the connection end faces are attracted to each other.

[0129] In the present invention, the type and material of the optical fiber and the type and material of the optical fiber alignment member 102 may be any known type and material. For example, the optical fiber may be a silica-based optical fiber or a plastic optical fiber.

[0130] In addition, although the MT ferrule is used for the optical fiber alignment component 102, a known multi-core ferrule may be used. In this case, any of general-purpose plastics, engineering plastics, super engineering plastics, etc., which are often used for multi-core ferrules, may be used. In addition, glass materials, semiconductor materials (such as silicon), or ceramics may be used for a structure similar to a multi-core ferrule. In addition, a similar effect may be exerted by any other material as long as the optical fiber can be positioned and arranged with high precision. For example, as with a known optical fiber array, a structure in which the optical fiber is accommodated in a glass V-groove and is closed by a cover component placed thereon and fixed with an adhesive may be used.

[0131] In addition, although the circumference of the optical fiber 101 is coated, two or more layered coatings can be implemented by additionally providing a known tube, nylon coating, etc. on the circumference of the optical fiber 101. In addition, in the case of a multi-core optical fiber, a known ribbon and bundled optical fiber ribbon can be used.

[0132] In addition, the guide pin 1041 and the guide pin hole 1042 are used in the positioning structure (fitting structure) of the present embodiment. The fitting structure is not limited to the example described above. For example, as the fitting uses the notch 1111 and the groove 1112, Figure 3A As shown in FIG. 1 , protrusions or the like may be formed or attached on one ferrule end face, and guide grooves matching these protrusions may be provided on the other ferrule end face.

[0133] In addition, if Figure 3B As shown, an external fitting guide structure 107 or the like may be used. Any other fitting structure is applicable as long as similar accuracy can be ensured. In the external fitting guide structure 107 of the fourteenth aspect, one ferrule has an insertion hole, and the other ferrule has an external shape matching the shape of the insertion hole.

[0134] Here, the joining component 103 is made of a permanent magnet. Depending on the magnetic force to be generated, any known magnet can be used as the material of the permanent magnet. For example, the permanent magnet can be a neodymium magnet. In addition, ferrite magnets, alnico magnets, samarium cobalt magnets, KS steel, MK steel, neodymium iron boron magnets, etc. can be used. In this case, the joining component 103 made of a permanent magnet is magnetized into an N pole and an S pole along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber. Hereinafter, the "joining component" is also referred to as a "magnetic structure".

[0135] Even if neither of them is a permanent magnet, when one joining part 103 is a magnet made of a hard magnetic material, the other joining part 103 may be made of a soft magnetic material such as metal. For example, SUS430, iron, nickel, cobalt, or a material having the magnetic properties of stainless steel (SUS) as an iron-based alloy may be used as a material that is cheap and excellent in processing.

[0136] The fiber alignment component 102 and the splice component 103 are pre-integrated by any method such as bonding, mechanical fitting or any one of various splicing techniques. In addition, in the first embodiment, the outer shape of the fiber alignment component 102 and the outer shape of the splice component 103 are exemplarily shown as quadrilateral / rectangular, such as Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, their outer shape can of course be any arbitrary shape. For example, the outer shape can be circular, elliptical, polygonal, etc. The above content is similarly applied to other embodiments described below.

[0137] Here, the optical fiber 101 is polished so that the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber relative to the connection end face slightly protrudes from the optical fiber alignment member 102. In addition, the connection end face of the splice member 103 and the connection end face of the optical fiber alignment member 102 are positioned and integrated so as to be in substantially the same plane.

[0138] Such a structure can achieve the following effects. That is, according to a conventional multi-core optical connector, in order to hold the opposing optical fibers 101 so as to eliminate the gap between the opposing optical fibers 101, a coil spring, a clamp, etc. apply a pressing force. In addition, an MPO connector, etc. has a housing structure that implements a mechanical fastening structure to continuously apply the pressing force of the coil spring to the connection end face.

[0139] The adoption of this structure makes it possible to apply a compressive force for connecting the optical fibers 101 to each other by the attractive force of the magnet without applying any spring element. In addition, since the attractive force of the magnet additionally exhibits the effect of holding the member, a stable optical connection can be maintained without requiring a mechanical fastening component that offsets the reaction force of the spring as in the conventional technology. That is, the number of components can be reduced, and thus a more compact multi-core optical connector can be realized.

[0140] Here, if Figure 4A As shown, by appropriately setting the protrusions of the end faces of the optical fibers 101 relative to the end faces of the fiber alignment components 102 and applying a compressive force by a magnet, a physical contact (PC) connection 108 can be achieved in all the optical fibers 101. In addition, a refractive index matching agent can be provided between the optical fibers, as described below in another embodiment.

[0141] In addition, if Figure 4B As shown, a micro lens 109 or the like may be provided on the end face of the optical fiber 101 so that connection is possible in a state where an air gap 110 is intentionally provided between the optical fibers 101. In addition, the air gap 110 may be intentionally provided without providing the micro lens 109. In addition, if necessary, an anti-reflection coating or the like may be applied to the connection end face of the optical fiber 101. In addition, as described below in the second embodiment, the end face of the optical fiber alignment member 102 and the end face of the optical fiber 101 may be polished while providing a constant angle with respect to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber.

[0142] Here, it is desirable that the opposing faces of the joint member 103 are parallel to each other so as to stabilize the vector of the attraction force of the magnet in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber. However, even if the parallelism described above is not perfect, the reduction in optical coupling loss is negligible unless the abutment angle of the ferrule in the longitudinal direction is greatly deviated. That is, even with the parallelism that can be ensured with practical machining accuracy, good optical characteristics can be achieved.

[0143] In addition, the present embodiment exemplarily shows the coupling member 103 arranged to cover the outer circumference of the optical fiber alignment member 102. However, the coverage does not need to be perfect, of course. The coupling member 103 may be arranged to exist only on one circumference or both circumferences.

[0144] Specifically, in the present embodiment, the coupling member 103 is arranged to surround a portion of the four side walls of the fiber alignment member 102 in the circumferential direction, but is not limited thereto, and may be arranged to surround the entire circumference of the side wall of the fiber alignment member 102. In addition, the coupling member 103 may be arranged to surround only a portion of one face of the fiber alignment member 102, instead of all four side walls, and it is sufficient that the coupling member 103 is arranged to surround at least a portion of one side face of the fiber alignment member 102 in the circumferential direction.

[0145] Without four side walls surrounding the fiber alignment member 102 in the circumferential direction, there may be a concern that the attractive force may decrease as the magnet contact area decreases. However, if necessary, it is desirable to greatly size the contact area.

[0146] It is also possible that, according to the properties of the magnet, the optical connectors can be arranged in multiple rows, that is, it is also possible to provide multiple strings of multi-core optical connectors without gaps, wherein the multi-core optical connectors are arranged side by side.

[0147] <Modification Example of First Embodiment>

[0148] In the following, reference will be made to Figure 5A and Figure 5B A modified example of the first embodiment will be described.

[0149] Figure 5A and Figure 5B 1 is a top cross-sectional view of an optical connector (optical connection structure) having optical connection components connected to each other according to a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention before and after connection. In the modified example of this embodiment, even if the engaging component (magnet) 123 used as a magnetic structure is appropriately arranged near the connecting end surface 125 of the optical fiber alignment component 122, the same effect as the first embodiment can be exerted by appropriately setting the magnet size, etc.

[0150] Here, the engaging member (magnet) 123 may also be arranged near the connecting end face 125 of the optical fiber alignment member 122 so as to be arranged in a row in the peripheral direction of the optical fiber alignment member 122 (surrounding the peripheral direction of the optical fiber alignment member 122), or the engaging member (magnet) 123 may be arranged partially near the connecting end face 125, that is, arranged at one position or a plurality of positions. It is sufficient that the engaging member 123 has a structure including a magnet as a part of the engaging member.

[0151] <Second Embodiment>

[0152] Fig. 6A A top cross-sectional view showing an optical connector (optical connection structure) 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 6B FIG. 2 shows a side cross-sectional view of the optical connector (optical connection structure) 200. Fig. 6A An enlarged view of the peripheral portion B of the optical fiber 201 on the connection end surface 205 of the optical fiber alignment component 202 is also shown. Figure 6B An enlarged view of a peripheral portion C of the optical fiber 201 on the connection end surface 205 of the optical fiber alignment component 102 is also shown.

[0153] The configuration of the optical connector (optical connection structure) 200 according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and is constructed by connecting two optical connection components 200a and 200b. A multi-core ferrule 202 for an MT connector is used as an optical fiber alignment component. A single-mode optical fiber having a core diameter of about 10 μm is arranged in the optical fiber 201.

[0154] In addition, the connection end face is ground into an inclined end face of about 8 degrees when viewed from the side surface. Having such an inclined face can prevent the influence of reflected light of the light guided through the optical fiber. The angle may be an angle other than 8 degrees, and may be 5 degrees or 10 degrees. In addition, the end face of the optical fiber 201 is ground so as to protrude slightly when viewed from the end face of the ferrule 202, or is ground so that the end of the optical fiber has a spherical surface.

[0155] In addition, a neodymium magnet is used for the joining component 103, and the magnetic poles of the neodymium magnet are magnetized in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, and the magnetic poles of the neodymium magnet are arranged to be opposite and form a combination that exerts an attractive force with the N pole (S pole) of the joining component. All the optical fiber cores are squeezed into close contact with each other by the attractive force of the magnet, and a PC connection is achieved, such as Figure 4A shown.

[0156] Through such a structure, similar to the effect in the first embodiment, a compact PC-connected multi-core optical connector can be achieved by eliminating mechanical squeezing / holding structures such as clamps used in conventional MT connectors, coil springs and multiple housing components used in MPO connectors, etc.

[0157] In addition, the arrangement of the magnetic poles of the magnet in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber defines Fig. 6A and Figure 6B However, compared with the case where one of the magnets is made of a metallic magnetic material (soft magnetic material), the attraction of the magnet can be greatly generated, and an optical connector and an optical connection structure that are compact in size can be provided.

[0158] In other words, arranging the magnetic poles of the magnets in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber determines the polarity between the corresponding magnets. Therefore, the degree of freedom in selecting the polarity of the magnets is constrained. On the other hand, the effect of being able to greatly generate the attraction of the magnet can be exerted.

[0159] <Third Embodiment>

[0160] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B 1 and 2 show top cross-sectional views of an optical connector (optical connection structure) 300 having interconnected optical connection components according to a third embodiment of the present invention before and after connection. Figure 7C An enlarged view of the connection portion of the optical fiber 301 is shown.

[0161] The configuration of the optical connector (optical connection structure) 300 according to the present embodiment is substantially the same as that of the second embodiment, and is constructed by connecting two optical connection components 300a and 300b, but each optical fiber end face is protruding and is polished to be a right-angled end face when viewed from the side surface. In addition, the joining component as a magnetic structure is SUS430. In addition, a refractive index matching agent 305 is provided between the connection end faces of the optical fibers 301 to be connected.

[0162] Through such a structure, similar to the effect in the first embodiment, a compact multi-core optical connector can be realized by eliminating mechanical pressing / holding structures such as clamps used in conventional MT connectors, coil springs and multiple housing components used in MPO connectors, etc.

[0163] In addition, although the attraction of the magnet is reduced when one of the magnets is made of metal, connection is possible without specifying a pair of yin and yang. In other words, in a configuration in which one joining part includes a metal magnetic material and the other joining part includes a magnet, the attraction of the magnet is reduced, but the polarity of the magnet of the other joining part is uncertain. Therefore, the effect of unconstrained freedom in selecting the polarity of the magnet is exerted.

[0164] At this time, since the refractive index matching agent 305 is provided inside, Fresnel reflection can be prevented without PC connection. Therefore, since sufficient characteristics can be achieved even with a small extrusion force, an optical connector and an optical connection structure that are compact in size can be provided. Any known gel, liquid or film matching agent can be used as the refractive index matching agent 305 as long as a similar effect can be obtained.

[0165] <Fourth Embodiment>

[0166] Fig. 8A A perspective view showing an optical connector (optical connection structure) 400 having optical connection components connected to each other according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 8B A top cross-sectional view of the optical connector (optical connection structure) 400 is shown. The configuration of the optical connector (optical connection structure) 400 according to the present embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and is constructed by connecting two optical connection components 400a and 400b, but the coupling component 403 as a magnetic structure is constructed to have two magnets 4031 and 4032 to form a divided and overlapping structure. The N pole and the S pole of the coupling component on the opposite side are arranged so that the attraction works.

[0167] Specifically, the optical connector (optical connection structure) 400 according to the present embodiment has a pair of engagement components 403A and 403B. The engagement component 403A includes split portions 4031A and 4032A. The portion 4031A is formed by two surfaces ( Fig. 8A ) is opposite to portion 4032A. A surface (e.g., Fig. 8A The upper side of the optical fiber alignment component 402 in FIG. 4 is magnetized to the N pole, and the other side (eg, Fig. 8A The lower side of the optical fiber alignment component 402 in the optical fiber alignment component 402 is magnetized to the S pole and is magnetized in the peripheral direction of the optical fiber alignment component 402.

[0168] In addition, part 4032A has two surfaces ( Fig. 8A The upper and lower sides of the optical fiber alignment component 402 in the fiber alignment component 402 are opposite to the portion 4031A, and one surface (for example, Fig. 8A The upper side of the fiber alignment component 402 in FIG. 4 is magnetized to the S pole, and the other side (e.g., Fig. 8A The lower side of the optical fiber alignment component 402 in the optical fiber alignment component 402 is magnetized to the N pole and is magnetized in the peripheral direction of the optical fiber alignment component 402.

[0169] Accordingly, since portion 4031A and portion 4032A have opposite polarities on opposite faces, an attractive force acts between portion 4031A and portion 4032A.

[0170] In addition, the bonding member 403B has a configuration similar to that of the bonding member 403A, but is arranged so that the N poles and the S poles of 4031B and 4032B are opposite in polarity to that of the bonding member 403A.

[0171] Therefore, at the opposite side, 4031B has the opposite polarity to 4032A so as to contact in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber. Fig. 8A The upper side of the fiber alignment component 402 in FIG. 4 is N-pole and the other side (eg, Fig. 8A On the other hand, 4032B is magnetized to be S-pole on one side (e.g., Fig. 8A The upper side of the fiber alignment component 402 in FIG. 4 is S-pole and the other side (e.g., Fig. 8A On the lower side of the fiber optic alignment component 402 in the example is an N pole.

[0172] Accordingly, since portion 4031B and portion 4032A have opposite polarities on opposite faces, an attractive force acts between portion 4031B and portion 4032A.

[0173] Similarly, since portion 4032B and portion 4031A have opposite polarities on opposing faces, an attractive force acts between portion 4032B and portion 4031A.

[0174] By such a structure, similar to the effect in the first embodiment, a compact optical connector for PC connection can be realized by eliminating the mechanical squeezing / holding structure, and the attraction of the magnet can also be greatly generated. Therefore, even if the size of the engaging part is reduced, sufficient squeezing force can be generated, and an optical connector and an optical connection structure that are compact in size can be provided.

[0175] Here, in the present embodiment, each of the coupling components 403A and 403B is configured to include two divided parts (4031A and 4032A, 4031B and 4032B), but it is sufficient that each coupling component is configured to include a plurality of divided parts, and these divided parts (magnets) are magnetized in the peripheral direction of the fiber alignment component 402 so as to have opposite polarities on the corresponding opposing faces. In addition, it is sufficient that the polarities are opposite on the opposing faces between the coupling components (403A and 403B).

[0176] In addition, in the present embodiment, the corresponding divided portions are magnetized in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber. It is sufficient that the corresponding divided portions have opposite polarities on the opposite faces thereof. In addition, it is sufficient that the junction components (403A and 403B) have opposite polarities on the opposite faces between the junction components.

[0177] That is, it is sufficient that the coupling member 403 as a magnetic structure has a portion with a plurality of magnets in the peripheral direction of the optical fiber alignment member 402, and these portions have opposite polarities on the opposing surfaces therebetween. In addition, it is sufficient that at least one pair of coupling members (403A and 403B) have opposite polarities at the opposing surfaces therebetween.

[0178] Both the joining parts 403A and 403B used as a pair of magnetic structures do not need to be composed of permanent magnets. When one joining part is a magnet, a soft magnetic material such as a metal can be used for another joining part. In addition, it is also acceptable as follows: 4031A and 4031B are magnets, and 4032A and 4032B are soft magnetic materials such as metals; or 4031A and 4031B are soft magnetic materials such as metals; 4032A and 4032B are magnets. As described above, in a pair of joining parts, it is sufficient that the part composed of a soft magnetic material such as a metal is adjacent to the part composed of a magnet. In other words, it is sufficient that the face of the part opposite to the part composed of a soft magnetic material such as a metal is composed of a magnet. For example, SUS430, iron, nickel, cobalt, or a material (SUS) having the magnetism of stainless steel as an iron-based alloy can be used as a soft magnetic material such as a metal, and as a material that is cheap and excellent in machining.

[0179] <Fifth Embodiment>

[0180] Fig.9A A perspective view showing an optical connection structure 500 having interconnected optical connection components according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 9B 5 shows a top cross-sectional view of the optical connection structure 500. The optical connector configuration in the optical connection structure 500 according to the present embodiment can be any combination that can be obtained from the first embodiment to the fourth embodiment. Here, a plate 505 is provided around the circumference of the corresponding engagement parts 503 as a pair of connected magnetic structures. The plate 505 is made of metal or other soft magnetic materials, and is, for example, a plate of SUS430.

[0181] In the present embodiment, the plate 505 is arranged to surround the peripheral direction of the splice member 503. Here, the peripheral direction of the splice member 503 is a direction along the periphery of the splice member 503 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber.

[0182] By such a structure, not only a compact optical connection structure can be realized as in the first to fourth embodiments, but also the magnetic lines of force can be constrained by using the intermediate plate 505. Therefore, the attractive force of the magnet can be further enhanced, and an optical connector and an optical connection structure that are compact in size can be provided.

[0183] In addition, the use of a plate 505 made of a soft magnetic material can reduce the influence of magnetic force on the outside, and bring about an auxiliary effect of preventing the magnet from being adsorbed to the surrounding components and eliminating the adverse effects of the magnetic field. Here, the shape of the plate 505 is arbitrary, and if necessary, the shape of the plate 505 can be larger or smaller than the periphery of the two engaging parts. In addition, a large plate can be set according to the multi-string multi-core connector so as to contact the periphery of the multi-string multi-core connector.

[0184] <Sixth Embodiment>

[0185] Fig. 10A A perspective view showing an optical connection structure 600 having interconnected optical connection components according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 10B 600 is shown in a top cross-sectional view. The optical connector configuration of the optical connection structure 600 according to the present embodiment can be any combination obtainable from the first embodiment to the fourth embodiment, but it is desirable that the engaging parts 603 as magnetic structures are all permanent magnets. Here, a plate 605 is provided that contacts one face of each engaging part in a pair of connected engaging parts 603. The plate 605 is made of metal or other soft magnetic materials, for example, a plate of SUS430.

[0186] By such a structure, not only a compact optical connection structure can be realized as in the first to fourth embodiments, but also the magnetic lines of force can be constrained by using the intermediate plate 605. Therefore, the attractive force of the magnet can be further enhanced, and an optical connector and an optical connection structure that are compact in size can be provided.

[0187] In addition, the use of the plate 605 made of a soft magnetic material can reduce the influence of magnetic force on the outside and bring about the auxiliary effect of preventing the magnet from being adsorbed to the surrounding members and eliminating the adverse influence of the magnetic field.

[0188] In addition, in this structure, the engaging member (permanent magnet) 603 as a magnetic structure is pulled onto a plate 605. Therefore, the positioning accuracy when the engaging member is engaged can be further enhanced. Fig.11 As shown, when engaged with the guide pin 6041, a slight gap 606 needs to be provided between the guide pin 6041 and the guide pin hole 6042, and these gaps 606 can reduce the positioning accuracy.

[0189] However, according to the present structure, the fitting portion moves in one direction of the gap 606 by the magnetic attraction force (indicated by arrow 607 in the drawing) of pulling the optical fiber alignment member 602. Accordingly, if the relative position between the corresponding optical fiber and the guide pin 6041 is adjusted in advance so as to be at the optimal position in the bias direction, an additional effect of improving the positioning accuracy of the optical fiber can be exerted.

[0190] <Modification Example of Sixth Embodiment>

[0191] In the following, reference will be made to Fig.12 and Fig.13 A modified example of the sixth embodiment is described.

[0192] Fig.12 and Fig.13 A top cross-sectional view of an optical connection structure having mutually connected optical connection components according to a modified example of the sixth embodiment of the present invention is shown. Fig.12 The structure shown in the figure realizes the effect of the sixth embodiment. That is, when the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber 611 is taken as the center, by arranging the coupling parts 613 as two opposite magnetic structures to be asymmetrical about the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, the vector of the attractive force of the magnet (indicated by the arrow 617 in the figure) is slightly applied to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber in addition to being applied to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber. Therefore, similarly, by pulling the magnetic attractive force of the optical fiber alignment part 612, the fitting part moves in one direction of the gap. Therefore, the additional effect of improving the positioning accuracy of the optical fiber can be exerted.

[0193] In addition, if Fig.13 As shown, even when the coupling component 623 is arranged along any one of the surfaces around the optical fiber alignment component 622, and the guide pin 6241 is made of a metallic magnetic material (soft magnetic material), an attractive force (indicated by arrow 628 in the accompanying drawing) acts on the guide pin 6241, and an effect similar to that described above can be exerted.

[0194] <Seventh Embodiment>

[0195] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The optical connector (optical connection structure) 700 with interconnected optical connection parts according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention is shown in top cross-sectional views before and after connection. The appearance 71 before connection and the appearance 72 after connection in the optical connector (optical connection structure) 700 according to this embodiment are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0196] The configuration of the optical connector (optical connection structure) 700 according to the present embodiment is basically similar to that of the second embodiment, and is constructed by connecting two optical connection parts 700a and 700b, but a metal foil 705 made of a magnetic material is inserted between the relative joining parts 703. For example, a metal foil of SUS430 having an opening for an optical fiber alignment part is inserted. Through such a structure, a compact optical connector can be realized similar to the second embodiment. In addition, since the cavity between the joining parts 703 as a magnetic structure is filled with magnetic material, the actual cavity is reduced. That is, even when the cavity is large, the reduction in attraction can be suppressed, and a compact multi-core optical connector with an enhanced magnetic effect can be realized.

[0197] <Eighth Embodiment>

[0198] Fig.15A and Fig. 15B Side cross-sectional views of an optical connection structure 800 according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention are shown before and after connection.

[0199] The optical connector configuration in the optical connection structure 800 according to the present embodiment is substantially the same as that of the second embodiment, but the optical fiber lead-out side of one optical connector is connected and integrated via an optical waveguide device 810 and an adhesive 815, so that the optical waveguide core 813 of the optical waveguide device 810 and the core of the short optical fiber 805 are optically coupled with low loss. In the present embodiment, the optical fiber and the optical waveguide device are used as the optical waveguide component.

[0200] The optical waveguide device 810 includes an optical waveguide layer 812 on an optical waveguide substrate 811 and an optical waveguide core 813 in the optical waveguide layer 812. In addition, the optical waveguide device 810 includes a reinforcing plate 814 at a portion connected to an optical connector.

[0201] Here, the optical waveguide device 810 is a planar lightwave circuit having a light propagation mechanism, a light emitting element, a light receiving element, a light modulating element, an optical functional element (e.g., a splitter, a wavelength multiplexer / demultiplexer, an optical switch, a polarization control element, or an optical filter), etc. Materials used for the optical waveguide device include, for example, semiconductors such as silicon and germanium; III-V semiconductors represented by indium phosphide (InP), gallium arsenide (GaAs), indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs), etc.; ferroelectrics such as lithium niobate; polymers; silica glass, etc.

[0202] By such a structure, similar to the first to seventh embodiments, a compact optical connection structure can be realized. In addition, by interposing short optical fibers, a compact multi-core optical connector connection for an optical waveguide device and an optical fiber can be artificially provided. With regard to the material and structure of the joining component, any of the methods described in the first to seventh embodiments can be used.

[0203] <Modification Example of Eighth Embodiment>

[0204] Fig.16A and Fig. 16B Side cross-sectional views of an optical connecting structure 820 according to a modified example of the eighth embodiment of the present invention before and after connection are shown.

[0205] exist Fig.15A and Fig. 15B In the optical connection structure 800 shown in FIG. 8 , the optical fiber alignment component 802 is directly bonded and fixed to the end face of the optical waveguide device 810. Fig.16A and Fig. 16B Similar to the optical connection structure 820 shown, the short optical fiber 825 can be connected to the optical waveguide layer 832 through a connection block 836 such as an optical fiber array made of glass, and the optical fiber alignment component 822 and the coupling component 823 can be attached and connected at a position corresponding to the constant length transmission of the short optical fiber 825.

[0206] <Ninth Embodiment>

[0207] Fig.17A and Fig. 17B 1 shows a perspective view of an optical connection structure 900 according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention before and after connection. Fig.18A and Fig.18B The optical connection structure 900 is shown before and after connection. Fig. 17B Schematic cross-sectional view of plane A.

[0208] like Fig.17A and Fig. 17B as well as Fig.18A and Fig.18B As shown, an optical connection structure 900 is constructed by connecting an optical connection component 900a and an optical connection component 900b. Each of the optical connection components 900a and 900b includes a plurality of optical fibers 901, an alignment component 902 for positioning and fixing the plurality of optical fibers 901 in a predetermined arrangement, and a magnetic structure 903 surrounding the alignment component 902. The positioning structure is provided on a connection end face 9021 of the alignment component 902. Here, the optical fiber 901 (optical waveguide component) is, for example, a silica-based single-mode optical fiber having a cladding diameter of 125 μm and a core diameter of about 10 μm.

[0209] The alignment component 902 is a ferrule having a plurality of microholes, the inner diameter of the microholes (eg, about 0.5 μm to about 1.5 μm) being slightly larger than the outer diameter of the optical fiber 901 , and is, for example, a well-known MT ferrule.

[0210] In addition, the positioning structure includes, for example, two guide pins (male side) 9041 and guide pin holes (female side) 9042 at both ends, as used in MT ferrules. As shown in the drawings, the alignment components 902 are arranged to face each other, and by inserting and coupling the positioning structure provided on the connection end surface 9021 of the alignment component 902, the positioning of the optical fiber 901 can be achieved, and a plurality of optical fibers 901 are optically connected together.

[0211] Here, the optical fiber 901 from which the coating has been removed is accommodated in a micro hole provided in the alignment member 902, and the optical fiber 901 and the alignment member 902 are fixed by an adhesive. In the drawings, the adhesive is not shown.

[0212] In addition, the connection end face of the optical fiber 901 and the connection end face 9021 of the alignment member 902 are flatly ground so as to be in substantially the same plane. In fact, the connection end face of the optical fiber 901 is ground to have a slightly spherical surface. For example, the optical fiber 901 is arranged at a pitch of about 250 μm. In the accompanying drawings, the number of optical fibers 901 is 8 cores. Needless to say, the pitch and the number of cores described above are arbitrary, and any number of cores such as 2 cores, 4 cores, 8 cores, 12 cores, 16 cores or 24 cores can be applied.

[0213] Although the circumference of the optical fiber 901 is coated, a known resin (eg, acrylic, epoxy, silicone, or polyimide) coating is applied around the portion other than the inside of the microhole of the alignment member 902 , and further they are assembled as a plurality of optical fiber ribbons 904 .

[0214] like Fig.17A and Fig. 17B As shown, the optical fiber ribbon 904 is further protected by a protective cover 911. The protective cover 911 is a known protective cover used for assembling an MT connector or the like, and the protective cover 911 may be omitted if necessary.

[0215] In addition, although not in Fig.18A and Fig.18B Although not shown in the figure, if necessary, in order to prevent the guide pin 9041 as a positioning structure from falling off, one of the alignment member 902 and the guide pin 9041 may be fixed by any means such as another member or a bonding material. In addition, although omitted in the drawings, if necessary, a tapered shape that facilitates insertion may be provided in the vicinity of the microhole, the tip of the guide pin 9041, and the guide pin hole 9042.

[0216] In addition, Fig.17A and Fig. 17B as well as Fig.18A and Fig.18B In the present invention, a magnetic structure 903 capable of accommodating an alignment component 902 is arranged to surround the alignment component 902 and be integrated with the alignment component 902. Here, any of the magnetic structures 903 is made of a hard magnetic material (so-called magnet), and any known magnet can be used as the material of the magnet, depending on the magnetic force to be generated. As a representative magnet, a neodymium magnet can be used. In addition, any known magnet such as a ferrite magnet, an alnico magnet, a samarium cobalt magnet, a KS steel, an MK steel, a neodymium iron boron magnet, etc. can be used. In addition, any magnet whose magnetic properties are adjusted by slightly changing the composition of these magnets can be used in the same manner.

[0217] The magnetic structure 903 (referred to as a joining member in the first to eighth embodiments) made of a magnet is arranged so that the N pole and the S pole of the magnetic structure 903 are arranged so that the magnetic attraction acts on Fig.18A and Fig.18B Between the connecting end faces 9031 of the magnetic structures 903 opposite to each other. Fig.17A and Fig. 17B In the embodiment of the present invention, the magnetic structure 903 is magnetized so that a pair of N poles and S poles are formed along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber. Therefore, an attractive force acts to attract the connection end face 9021 of the alignment member 902 and the connection end face 9031 of the magnetic structure 903. Even if both magnetic structures in the pair of opposing magnetic structures 903 are not made of hard magnetic materials (magnets), when only one magnetic structure is made of a magnet and the other magnetic structure 903 is made of a soft magnetic material, a similar application is possible because a magnetic force acts between the magnetic structures 903.

[0218] As soft magnetic materials, so-called metals that attract magnets are known. For example, iron, nickel, cobalt, or a material having the magnetism of stainless steel (SUS) as an iron-based alloy (e.g., SUS430) can be used. Needless to say, when both of the opposing magnetic structures 903 are magnets, the magnetic force to be generated is large, and the attraction is large.

[0219] On the other hand, although the attractive force is worse than the above, another magnetic structure may be made of a soft magnetic material from the viewpoint of workability, prevention of adsorption to other parts, prevention of adverse effects of magnetic force, etc. These are appropriately selected depending on the required attractive force, the size of the magnetic structure 903, the required conditions, etc.

[0220] In addition, the alignment member 902 and the magnetic structure 903 are integrated, and any bonding method can be used, such as bonding, mechanical interlocking, or metal bonding (welding, etc.). In addition, instead of the above bonding, the alignment member 902 and the magnetic structure 903 can be integrated via another holding member 912, such as Fig.19 The holding member 912 may be provided with a structure 9044 to prevent the guide pin 9041 from falling off. In addition, a fastening structure for engaging the holding member 912 during connection may be appropriately provided.

[0221] exist Fig.18A and Fig.18B In the embodiment, the optical fiber 901 is ground so that the optical fiber longitudinal direction relative to the connection end face slightly protrudes from the alignment member 902. In addition, the connection end face 9031 of the magnetic structure 903 and the connection end face 9021 of the alignment member 902 are configured to be on the same plane, or the connection end face 9031 of the magnetic structure 903 is positioned to be retracted relative to the connection end face 9021 of the alignment member 902 in the optical fiber longitudinal direction. There is a gap between the connection end faces 9031 of the opposing magnetic structures 903.

[0222] Generally, the smaller the gap, the greater the magnetic force acting between the magnets. Therefore, it is ideal that the faces between the magnetic structures and the faces between the alignment components are on the same plane so that a greater magnetic force can be generated.

[0223] On the other hand, if the magnetic structure protrudes slightly toward the connection surface relative to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, there will be a risk that the end face of the alignment member or the end face of the optical fiber may not contact each other. However, the positional relationship mentioned above can minimize the gap between the magnets as the magnetic structure without hindering the contact between the end face of the alignment member 902 and the end face of the optical fiber, and accordingly can sufficiently generate magnetic force.

[0224] Such a structure can produce the following effects.

[0225] That is, in a conventional multi-core optical connector, a pressing force needs to be applied to the connection end faces to reduce the gap between the opposing optical fibers (or to make the gap zero), and a coil spring, a clamp, etc. are used as a member for applying the pressing force.

[0226] In addition, for example, in an MPO connector, a spring holding component and a plurality of housing components need to be provided to integrate them. In addition, in order to maintain the connection state in which the extrusion force is applied, it is necessary to provide a mechanical fastening structure for the housing component and maintain the mechanical fastening structure by fitting with the housing component through an internal adapter component, thereby generating the extrusion force.

[0227] With the structure of the present invention, a compressive force can be applied between the connection end faces of the optical fibers by magnetic attraction without using the mechanical spring member described above.

[0228] In addition, since the effect of maintaining the connected state is exerted by the magnetic attraction, a stable optical connection can be maintained without providing an adapter member and a housing member with a mechanical fastening structure to offset the reaction force of the spring member as in the past.

[0229] That is, even when the same pressing force is generated by using the structure of the present invention, the number of components can be greatly reduced, and a multi-core optical connector connection structure greatly reduced in size compared with a conventional multi-core optical connector connection structure can be realized.

[0230] For example, a known MT ferrule generally has a width of 6.4 mm, a length of 8 mm, and a thickness of 2.5 mm, but when the surrounding housing and optical fiber protection portion are taken into account, the outer shape of the MPO connector requires a width of 12 mm, a thickness of 7.5 mm, and a length of 25 mm. In addition, an adapter component for coupling needs to be provided.

[0231] The elastic force generated by the coil spring at this time is, for example, 10 N. On the other hand, by adopting a structure using a general neodymium magnet around two MT ferrules, for example, if arranged with a thickness of 1 mm and a length of 20 mm, the external specifications including the magnetic structure 903 can be greatly reduced to a width of 8.4 mm, a length of 8 mm, and a thickness of 4.5 mm. Therefore, a magnetic force equal to or greater than 10 N can be generated, and the adapter component can be eliminated, thereby greatly reducing the size.

[0232] The calculation described above is an example. The magnetic force can be further increased or size reduction can be achieved with the same magnetic force by applying any of the following methods: such as forming the magnet from a stronger material; forming the magnet by a one-dimensional or two-dimensional multi-pole magnet array, as described in the embodiments described below; or adding other magnetic structures 903 (such as metal plates) that serve as so-called yokes and generate greater magnetic force. In addition, in recent years, thin MT ferrules (e.g., 1.25 mm in thickness and 4 mm in length) have been developed, and by combining with the same thin MT ferrules, further size reduction is feasible.

[0233] In addition, Fig.17A and Fig. 17B as well as Fig.18A and Fig.18B In the illustrated structure, although the magnetic structure 903 is arranged to surround the alignment member 902, any other structure capable of generating a magnetic force may be used.

[0234] FIG. 20A to FIG. 20K Shown when from Fig.17A and Fig. 17B The arrangement variation of the positional relationship between the magnetic structure 903 and the alignment member 902 when viewed from the connection end surface side. Fig. 20A The structure shown is Fig.17A and Fig. 17B The structure is similar to that of , wherein the entire periphery is surrounded by the magnetic structure 903. Fig. 20B As shown, of course, the magnetic structure 903 can be configured to exist only on one face of the periphery.

[0235] In addition, if Fig. 20C and Fig.20D As shown, the magnetic structure 903 may be arranged on the top and bottom or on the left and right sides. In addition, the magnetic structure 903 does not need to be a single material and may be a combination of a hard magnetic material 903a and a soft magnetic material 903b. Fig.20E As shown, a portion of the periphery may be a hard magnetic material (magnet) 903a, and another portion may be a soft magnetic material 903b.

[0236] In addition, if Fig.20F and Figure 20G As shown, incorporating a magnetic structure 903 or a portion of a magnetic structure 903 into the alignment member 902 can further reduce the size and enhance the installability. They can be mechanically joined, or can have a structure that is integrated by magnetic force. Any joining means, such as bonding or welding, can be used. Here, the structure in which at least a portion of the magnetic structure 903 is incorporated into the alignment member 902 includes a structure in which at least a portion of the magnetic structure 903 penetrates into the alignment member 902.

[0237] Similarly, if Fig. 20H , Fig.20I and Fig. 20J As shown, a combination of multiple magnetic structures 903 (903a, 903b) can be used. As described below in another embodiment, the following structure ( Figure 20K ): A plate of a magnetic structure 903b made of a soft magnetic material is further arranged around the magnetic structure 903a. Of course, it is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 20, and any similar structure can be adopted. In addition, any combination obtainable from FIG. 20 can be used for the pair to be connected.

[0238] in addition, FIG. 21A to FIG. 21F FIG. 9 shows a variation of the arrangement of the positional relationship between the magnetic structure 903 and the alignment member 902 in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber in the side cross section. Fig.21AAs shown, the magnetic structure 903 can be shorter than the alignment component 902, and the optical fiber 901 and the optical fiber ribbon 904 (optical waveguide component) can be inserted on the surface of the alignment component 902 (the surface opposite to the connection end surface). Fig.21B As shown, of course, the magnetic structure 903 can extend longer than the alignment member 902. In this case, for example, of course, because the optical fiber ribbon 904 is smaller than the alignment member 902 in the thickness direction, the thickness of the magnetic structure 903 can change along the optical fiber ribbon 904, such as Fig. 21C shown.

[0239] In addition, the magnetic structure 903 does not need to be a single material in the longitudinal direction, and the magnetic structure 903 may be a combination of a hard magnetic material 903a and a soft magnetic material 903b. Fig.21D and Fig.21E As shown, in a similar Fig. 21C In the configuration shown, a portion can be constructed of hard magnetic material 903a, and another portion can be constructed of metal as soft magnetic material 903a. With such a structure, the magnetic force can be increased while suppressing the amount of magnet used. In addition, the protective cover function for protecting the optical fiber 901 and the like can function at the same time. Fig.21F As shown, a structure in which a connection end surface 9031 of the magnetic structure 903 protrudes from a connection end surface 9021 of the alignment component 902 may be adopted.

[0240] exist FIG. 21A to FIG. 21F In any of the figures, when a plurality of magnetic structures 903 are combined, the plurality of magnetic structures 903 may be mechanically joined or may be integrated by magnetic force. Any joining means may be used, such as bonding or welding. In addition, as described above, FIG. 20A to FIG. 20K and FIG. 21A to FIG. 21F Any available combination may be used as the combination of the magnetic structure 903, and any combination for opposing pairs may be used as the connection structure.

[0241] In addition, as mentioned above, when one magnetic structure 903 includes a magnet, the other magnetic structure may include only a soft magnetic material. When one of them includes only a soft magnetic material, the magnetic force is slightly reduced compared to the case where both are constructed of magnets. However, there is no need to worry about the NS combination and arrangement for generating the magnetic attraction force, and therefore it can be preferably selected in practice and can be appropriately selected.

[0242] The use of the above-mentioned modifications can bring about additional effects, such as an increase in magnetic force for further size reduction; space saving in the case of a connection structure including a mounting substrate; and improved workability in manufacturing. For example, drilling a hole in a magnet is relatively difficult, but cutting is easy. Therefore, as FIG. 20A to FIG. 20KPartially shown, using another magnet in assembly, or adopting a structure with a soft magnetic material interposed, etc., can improve the ease in manufacturing.

[0243] In addition, in addition to the above, installation benefits can also be achieved, such as sharing with other installation components. For example, FIG. 20A to FIG. 20K The soft magnetic material portion may be shared with a substrate on which a connection structure is mounted, or a threaded hole or the like may be provided in the soft magnetic material portion so as to be shared with a mechanical fastening structure of the connection structure for mounting the substrate.

[0244] Next, other constituent elements of the present invention will be described. In the present invention, optical fibers of any known type and material and alignment members of any known type and material can be applied.

[0245] For example, the optical fiber 901 may be a known silica-based optical fiber or a plastic optical fiber. In addition, any of a single-mode optical fiber, a multi-mode optical fiber, a polarization-maintaining optical fiber, a photonic crystal optical fiber, a multi-core optical fiber, etc. may be used as the optical fiber 901.

[0246] In addition, although the circumference of the optical fiber 901 is coated, a known resin (e.g., acrylic, epoxy, silicone, or polyimide) coating is applied around the portion other than the inside of the microhole of the alignment member 902, and another two or more layered coatings may be provided by adding a silicone tube, a nylon coating, etc. thereto. Of course, in the case of a multi-core optical fiber, the optical fiber can be more easily handled by using a known ribbonized and bundled optical fiber ribbon 904.

[0247] A multi-core ferrule such as a known MT ferrule may be used as the alignment member 902. Any of general-purpose plastics, engineering plastics, super engineering plastics, etc., which are generally used for MT ferrules, may be used as the material of the multi-core ferrule.

[0248] In addition, for a structure similar to a multi-core ferrule, a glass material may be used, or a processed product based on any material such as a semiconductor material (such as silicon) or a ceramic material may be used. For example, as with a known optical fiber array, a structure in which an optical fiber is accommodated in a glass V-groove and is closed by a cover member placed thereon and fixed with an adhesive is applicable. In this case, as mentioned above, around the optical fiber, two guide pins or the like may be positioned and combined at predetermined positions at both ends, thereby obtaining an alignment member structure made of a glass material and having a positioning structure.

[0249] In addition, in the drawings, the outer shape of the alignment member 902 and the outer shape of the magnetic structure 903 are exemplarily shown as quadrilaterals / rectangles, but the outer shapes of the alignment member 902 and the magnetic structure 903 may be any arbitrary shapes. For example, the outer shape may be circular, elliptical, polygonal, etc. If necessary, the corners, etc. may be chamfered or rounded. The above similarly applies to other embodiments.

[0250] As a positioning structure, Fig.17A and Fig. 17B as well as Fig.18A and Fig.18B The positioning structure of the guide pin used in the MT ferrule etc. is shown, but the positioning structure according to the present invention is certainly not limited to the above. Fig.22A As shown, as through similar engagement of notches and grooves, a protrusion 9061 or the like may be formed or attached on one ferrule end face, and a guide groove 9062 or the like matching the protrusion may be provided on the other ferrule end face.

[0251] In addition, if Fig. 22B As shown, fitting by the external shape guide 907 or the like may be used. Any other fitting structure or the like may be applied to the positioning as long as similar accuracy can be ensured.

[0252] Next, the connection end face of the optical fiber 901 will also be described. Even if the optical fiber 901 is replaced with an optical waveguide or an optical element as an optical waveguide component, the same is true. For example, similar to the present embodiment, the protrusion of the end face of the optical fiber 901 is appropriately set relative to the end face of the optical fiber alignment component 902, such as Fig.23A As shown, by applying a compressive force through a magnet, a physical contact (PC) connection can be achieved for all optical fibers.

[0253] Therefore, Fresnel reflection with the air layer can be suppressed.As described below in another embodiment, even if there is a gap between the optical fibers 901 to be connected, Fresnel reflection can be suppressed by filling the gap with a resin having an appropriate refractive index for matching in refractive index.

[0254] In addition, if Fig. 23B As shown in FIG. 1 , the end face of the optical fiber 901 is grinded obliquely to suppress the return light caused by Fresnel reflection. In this case, the alignment member 902 may be grinded together, or an inclined end face may be formed only on the end face of the optical fiber 901. The angle at this time may be set as follows: Fig. 23B , or of course may be set in the depth direction of the paper.

[0255] In addition, if Fig.23CAs shown, a gap (cavity) may be provided at the end face of the optical fiber 901 and a microlens 909 or the like may be provided so that the optical fibers 901 are connected with a predetermined gap provided between them.

[0256] In addition, an air gap may be intentionally provided without providing a microlens. In this case, if necessary, an anti-reflection coating or the like may be applied to the optical fiber connection end face so that Fresnel reflection may be suppressed. Fig.23C In the configuration, an inclined end face may be formed without applying an anti-reflection coating. In this case, it is sufficient to appropriately set the relative positions of the optical fibers 901 in advance so that optical coupling can be achieved even in an angled state.

[0257] In the case of a spatially coupled system, when the Fig.23C In the configuration of , it is sufficient that the connection end surface 9031 of the magnetic structure 903 is arranged to protrude from the connection end surface 9021 of the alignment member 902 .

[0258] Next, the tolerance of the magnetic structure 903 will be described. In order to stabilize the vector of the magnetic attraction in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, it is desirable that the opposite faces of the magnetic structure 903 are parallel. However, even if the parallelism mentioned above is not perfect, the reduction in optical coupling loss is negligible unless the abutment angle between the alignment members 902 in the longitudinal direction deviates greatly. That is, even with the parallelism that can be ensured with practical machining accuracy, good optical characteristics can be achieved.

[0259] In addition, due to the properties of the magnet, the optical connection structures 900 can be arranged in multiple rows. That is, by arranging the multi-core optical connection structures 900 side by side, a multi-string multi-core optical connection without gaps can be provided.

[0260] As will be described below, in the present optical connection component and the optical connection structure, regarding the optical waveguide component, the optical waveguide component housed in the alignment component is of course not limited to a plurality of optical fibers. Even when the optical fiber is replaced with an optical waveguide having a plurality of waveguide cores, a similar effect can be exerted. Connection between optical waveguides or connection between an optical waveguide and a plurality of optical fibers is possible.

[0261] <Tenth Embodiment>

[0262] Fig.24A and Fig. 24B 1 and 2 show perspective views of an optical connecting structure 1000 according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention before and after connection.

[0263] The basic structure is the same as that of the ninth embodiment. The optical connection structure 1000 is constructed by connecting the optical connection component 1000a and the optical connection component 1000b. In the corresponding optical connection components 1000a and 1000b, as described above, the MT ferrule is used as the alignment component 10_02, and the guide pin 10_41 and the guide hole are used as the positioning structure. Fig. 20B The magnetic structure 10_03 of the arrangement shown is arranged on and integrated with the bottom surface (one peripheral surface) of the alignment component 10_02.

[0264] In the optical connection component 1000a, a neodymium magnet 10_03_01 as a single hard magnetic material is used as one magnetic structure in the magnetic structure 10_03. Similarly, a neodymium magnet 10_03_02 as a hard magnetic material is used as another magnetic structure. The opposite faces of the corresponding magnets have different polarities (N pole or S pole). On the other hand, a soft magnetic material 10_03_03 is used as one magnetic structure in the magnetic structure.

[0265] On the other hand, unlike the plurality of optical fibers 10_01 of the first embodiment, an optical waveguide 10_21 having a plurality of cores and a cladding surrounding the plurality of cores is accommodated in each alignment member 10_02.

[0266] The core and cladding configuring this optical waveguide 10_21 are made of polymer resin, and each is made of fluorinated epoxy resin whose refractive index is optimally adjusted. The core diameter is about 8 μm, and it serves as a single-mode waveguide.

[0267] The outer shape of the polymer waveguide is a quadrilateral. A quadrilateral groove for accommodating the polymer waveguide is formed in the MT ferrule. After accommodating the polymer waveguide, the ferrule and the polymer waveguide are integrated by covering the ferrule with a cover from the upper surface of the waveguide and fixing the cover with an adhesive. This is basically the same as the structure of the well-known PMT connector (polymer waveguide connected to the MT connector). This structure makes it possible to achieve connector connection of the waveguide in the same way as the MT connector.

[0268] Of course, the waveguide to be constructed is not limited to the above examples, and any optical waveguide used as an optical waveguide can be applied. For example, a polymer can be used as a material, or a silica-based PLC (planar lightwave circuit) using silica glass formed on a known substrate as a main base material can be used.

[0269] In addition, similarly, any material may be used, such as a Si waveguide formed on an SOI substrate, an InP waveguide made of a compound semiconductor, or an LN waveguide made of a dielectric material.

[0270] In addition, as a material for the polymer waveguide, any known waveguide material can be used in addition to the fluorinated epoxy resin. For example, epoxy resin, acrylic resin, silicone resin, polyimide resin, polynorbornene resin, polyoxetane resin, organic-inorganic hybrid resin, etc. can be the material. A halogen substituent obtained by fluorinating, chlorinating or brominating the resin can be used. In addition, any derivative having a partially modified chemical structure based on the resin can be used.

[0271] The size of the waveguide core can be arbitrarily designed, and single mode or multimode can be used. In addition, of course, the spacing of the waveguide core and the number of channels can also be arbitrarily applied.

[0272] exist Fig.24A and Fig. 24B , the arrangement of the neodymium magnet as a magnetic structure made of a hard magnetic material is different from that of the ninth embodiment.

[0273] Specifically, Fig.24A and 24B As shown, in the optical connection component 1000a, in the magnetic structure 10_03, two magnets 10_03_01 and 10_03_02 having N poles and S poles in the longitudinal direction are joined along the longitudinal direction. The pair of N poles and S poles is arranged in the same magnetic structure 10_03. Here, the pair of N poles and S poles is arranged so that the attraction force acts appropriately between the opposite faces of the two magnets 10_03_01 and 10_03_02. On the other hand, a soft magnetic structure 10_03_03 is arranged in the optical connection component 1000b, and the soft magnetic structure 10_03_03 is connected to the magnet 10_03_01 by magnetic force.

[0274] With such a structure, similar to the effect described in the first embodiment, necessary pressing force can be applied between the connection end faces of the optical waveguide 10_21 by magnetic attraction without using the previously described mechanical spring member.

[0275] In addition, since the effect of maintaining the connection state is exerted by the magnetic attraction, a stable optical connection can be maintained without any housing component or any adapter component equipped with a conventional mechanical fastening component that offsets the reaction force of the spring component. That is, even when the same pressing force is generated, the number of components can be greatly reduced using the structure of the present invention. It does not need to be incorporated into an MPO connector or the like. A connector connection structure for an optical waveguide that is greatly reduced in size compared to a conventional connector connection structure can be achieved.

[0276] In addition, by arranging the magnets separately in the same part as in the present embodiment, a magnetic attraction force can be greatly generated even when the size is the same. That is, even if the size of the magnetic structure 10_03 is made smaller, sufficient squeezing force can be generated. The size for generating the same squeezing force can be further reduced. Therefore, an optical connection component and an optical connection structure that are further reduced in size can be provided.

[0277] Although the connection between optical waveguides has been described as an example, of course, similar to the first embodiment, it is also applicable to the connection between a plurality of optical fibers or the connection between a plurality of optical fibers and an optical waveguide.

[0278] In addition, similar to the first embodiment, it can also be applied to FIG. 23A to FIG. 23C The structure and materials of the alignment components, the different positioning structures and any connecting end faces shown in the examples.

[0279] In addition, you can apply FIG. 20A to FIG. 22B Any combination can be obtained as long as a structure is adopted in which the magnet is divided along the longitudinal direction of the waveguide core. For example, the following structure can be adopted: Fig.25A As shown, SUS430 as a soft magnetic material structure is provided inside, or as Fig.25B As shown, SUS430 is surrounded as a soft magnetic material structure.

[0280] In this embodiment, although an example of 2 divisions (one NS pair in one magnetic structure) is shown, any NS holding structure with more than 2 divisions (multiple NS pairs in one magnetic structure) may be adopted. A combination of these magnet groups may be formed by connecting magnet components having pre-magnetized NS pairs using magnetic attraction, and if necessary, the combination of these magnet groups may be integrated by filling gaps with an adhesive or welding, etc.

[0281] In addition, of course, when the magnetic structure of only one of the optical connection components contains a magnet having a hard magnetic structure, and the magnetic structure of the other optical connection component is configured to contain a soft magnetic material, the attraction force is slightly reduced. However, there is no need to worry about the NS combination, and the NS combination may be practically preferred and may be appropriately selected.

[0282] <Eleventh Embodiment>

[0283] Fig.26A and Fig.26B 1 and 2 show perspective views of an optical connecting structure 1100 according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention before and after connection.

[0284] The basic structure is the same as that of the ninth embodiment, and the optical connection structure 1100 is constructed by connecting the optical connection component 1100a and the optical connection component 1100b. In the respective optical connection components 1100a and 1100b, as described above, the MT ferrule is used as the alignment component 11_02, and the guide pin 11_41 and the guide hole are used as the positioning structure. Fig. 20A , arranging and integrating magnetic structure 11_03, which is arranged to surround the alignment component 11_02. The objects to be connected shown are optical fibers and optical waveguides, rather than optical fibers connected to each other or optical waveguides connected to each other. Of course, the same is true for any combination of these optical waveguide components.

[0285] In the present embodiment, one of the magnetic structures 11_03 uses a neodymium magnet that is a single hard magnetic material, and the other magnetic structure uses a neodymium magnet that is also a hard magnetic material.

[0286] In addition to the object to be connected, this embodiment is different from the ninth embodiment and the tenth embodiment in that the N pole and the S pole are not magnetized along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, but are magnetized in the peripheral direction. In the optical connection components 1100a and 1100b, the NS are appropriately arranged to face each other so that the magnetic attraction acts between the corresponding magnetic structures 11_03.

[0287] With such a structure, a compact optical connection structure can be achieved without using a mechanical pressing component or a housing component provided with a fastening structure, etc., similar to the effect described in the ninth embodiment.

[0288] In addition, by changing the direction of magnetization, depending on the specifications and arrangement of the magnets, a magnetic attraction force can be greatly generated even when the size is the same. That is, even if the size of the magnetic structure 11_03 is made smaller, sufficient squeezing force can be generated. The size for generating the same squeezing force can be further reduced.

[0289] Even if there are constraints on the width, length, thickness, etc. in the embodiment of the optical connecting structure, sufficient pressing force can be generated, and an optical connecting component and an optical connecting structure that are further reduced in size can be provided.

[0290] In addition, the present configuration has two additional effects, namely, an alignment effect in the connection surface and a connection holding effect, as additional effects.

[0291] Regarding the former, since the opposing connection faces are NS pairs, for example, if one of the connection components is mistakenly inverted when connected, the connection will fail due to the opposition of NN and SS and the repulsion between the NN and SS. Therefore, this brings an additional effect of preventing erroneous connection.

[0292] In addition, regarding the former, although detailed positioning is actually performed by the positioning structure, the relative position of the two connection faces that maximize the attractive force in the NS is determined uniquely by the magnetic force. Therefore, coarse positioning can be achieved by the magnetic force. In this case, if the outer shape is formed very accurately and the component itself is magnetized, high-precision positioning of the optical fiber can be performed even when there is no positioning structure.

[0293] In addition, with respect to the latter, since the position where the attractive force is greatest on the plane is defined relative to the above, even if an external force is applied in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber or in a peripheral direction after connection, the reaction force of the magnet acts, and the force used to maintain the relative positional relationship between the connection surfaces is greater than that of the ninth embodiment.

[0294] In fact, due to the fitting of the guide pin 11_41, the sliding of the connection surface is very small, but when the gap between the guide pin 11_41 and the guide hole 11_42 is, for example, 1 μm, an optical axis deviation corresponding to 1 μm between the cores after the connection may occur depending on the external force. Therefore, if there is vibration, the connection loss may fluctuate periodically. However, with the present configuration, even when an external force is applied in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber or in the peripheral direction, the holding / restoring force acts due to the magnetic attraction, and thus the stability of the connection can be enhanced.

[0295] Similar to the tenth embodiment, an example of 2 divisions in the peripheral direction (one NS pair in one magnetic structure) can be adopted. In addition, any NS holding structure with more than 2 divisions (multiple NS pairs in one magnetic structure) can also be adopted. For example, Fig.27A The 2 splits shown.

[0296] In addition, you can apply FIG. 20A to FIG. 22B Any combination can be obtained as long as the magnet is divided along the circumferential direction of the waveguide core. For example, a shape in which SUS430 as a soft magnetic material structure is built in, or a shape in which the magnet is arranged and sandwiched only in the vertical direction, such as Fig.27B The structure shown.

[0297] In addition, of course, only the magnetic structure 11_03 of one optical connection component may include a magnet as a hard magnetic structure, while the magnetic structure of the other optical connection component may be constructed of a soft magnetic material. In this case, although the alignment effect and the retention effect described previously are reduced, the magnetic attraction force may be increased even if the size is the same, depending on the specifications of the magnetic structure 11_03, etc., compared to a soft magnetic material magnet and a soft magnetic material pair.

[0298] <Twelfth Embodiment>

[0299] Fig.28A and Fig.28B 1 and 2 show perspective views of an optical connecting structure according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention before and after connection.

[0300] The basic structure is the same as that of the ninth embodiment, and the optical connection structure 1200 is constructed by connecting the optical connection component 1200a and the optical connection component 1200b. In the corresponding optical connection components 1200a and 1200b, as described above, the MT ferrule is used as the alignment component 12_02, and the guide pin 12_41 and the guide hole are used as the positioning structure. Fig. 20A , arranging and integrating a magnetic structure 12_03, which is arranged to surround the alignment component 12_02. An optical fiber is exemplarily shown as an object to be connected. Of course, an optical waveguide or the like can also be used as an optical waveguide component.

[0301] In this embodiment, a neodymium magnet as a single hard magnetic material is used as one magnetic structure in the magnetic structure 12_03, and nickel as a soft magnetic material is used as the other magnetic structure. Here, in the neodymium magnet, two pairs of magnets whose N poles and S poles are magnetized along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber are arranged in the peripheral direction.

[0302] With such a structure, similar to the effect described in the ninth embodiment, a compact optical connection structure can be achieved without using a mechanical pressing component, a housing component including a fastening structure, or the like.

[0303] In addition, incorporating multiple magnet pairs in the same magnetic structure 12_03 can strengthen the constraints on the magnetic lines of force, and even when the size is the same, a magnetic attraction force can be greatly generated. That is, even if the size of the magnetic structure 12_03 is made smaller, sufficient squeezing force can be generated. The size for generating the same squeezing force can be further reduced. Therefore, an optical connection component and an optical connection structure that are further reduced in size can be provided.

[0304] The combination of these magnet groups can be formed by connecting magnet parts having pre-magnetized NS pairs using magnetic attraction, and if necessary, can be integrated by filling gaps with an adhesive or welding, etc.

[0305] <Modification Example of Twelfth Embodiment>

[0306] Fig.29 A modified example of the twelfth embodiment is shown.

[0307] Fig.29 The optical connection structure shown includes a magnet group 121_03, wherein Fig.28A and Fig.28B The integrated magnet group shown is further arranged in the peripheral direction in the same manner. The optical connection structure according to this modified example includes not only a plurality of magnets in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, but also a plurality of magnets in the peripheral direction. Each of the plurality of magnets is arranged so that the opposite faces of adjacent magnets have different polarities.

[0308] As described above, dividing the magnetic poles two-dimensionally can further strengthen the constraints on the magnetic lines of force, and can greatly generate magnetic attraction even when the size is the same. That is, even if the size of the magnetic structure (magnet group) 121_03 is made smaller, sufficient squeezing force can be generated. The size for generating the same squeezing force can be further reduced.

[0309] This structure does not always need to be Fig.29 Single component shown. Can be applied FIG. 20A to FIG. 22B Any combination of. The magnetic structure can be segmented. For example, Fig.30 As shown, different magnet groups 122_03_1 and soft magnetic materials 122_03_2 can be arranged as magnetic structures on the upper surface and the lower surface.

[0310] In addition, in this embodiment, the other magnetic structure is made of soft magnetic material, but of course, similar to the tenth and eleventh embodiments, the other magnetic structure can be made of soft magnetic material. FIG. 28A to FIG. 30 In each of the above, a magnetic structure is formed of magnets made of a hard magnetic material and having a relative NS arrangement. In this case, as described in the eleventh embodiment, a positioning effect in the connection surface and a retention effect related to stability after connection can be additionally exerted.

[0311] <Thirteenth Embodiment>

[0312] Fig.31A and Fig.31B1 and 2 show perspective views of an optical connection structure 1300 according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention before and after connection. The optical connection structure 1300 is constructed by connecting an optical connection component 1300a and an optical connection component 1300b. Fig.31C Shown along Fig.31B Cross-sectional view taken along plane B.

[0313] In the optical connecting component 1300a, the alignment component 13_02 accommodates a plurality of optical fibers 13_01, similar to the ninth embodiment. A positioning structure such as a guide pin insertion hole 13_42 is arranged on the end surface of the alignment component 13_02.

[0314] In addition, the magnetic structure 13_03 is partially connected to the periphery of the alignment part 13_02, and the magnetic structure 13_03 is formed of a magnet as a hard magnetic material. The optical connection part 1300a and the optical connection part 1300b are connected by the magnetic force of the magnetic structure 13_03.

[0315] On the other hand, in the optical connection component 1300b (optical element 13_23 side), the alignment component includes a positioning structure on the substrate 13_22. Positioning structures such as guide pins 13_41 are arranged around the optical element 13_23. The positioning structure can be a component 13_43 having a guide hole 13_42, into which the guide pin 13_41 can be inserted. That is, the combination of positive and negative can be changed.

[0316] Here, the optical element 13_23 is mounted on the substrate 13_22, and the positioning structure is also formed or mounted on the substrate 13_22.

[0317] In addition, near the optical element 13_23, magnets used as magnetic structures 13_03 and made of hard magnetic materials are arranged on the right and left sides and mounted on the substrate 13_22. Details of electrical wiring, electrical installation units, circuit elements, optical element functional units, etc. are omitted in the drawings.

[0318] At this time, the optical element 13_23 is, for example, a photonic integrated circuit constructed by a silicon waveguide having multiple cores.

[0319] The spot size converter that matches the mode field diameter of the optical fiber is appropriately integrated near the silicon waveguide as the optical element 13_23. This can achieve efficient connection through the mode field and edge coupling of the optical fiber.

[0320] In addition, the gap between the connection end faces is filled with a refractive index matching agent 13_31.

[0321] In addition, the positioning structure provided on the optical element 13_23 side is accurately positioned relative to the multiple optical input / output parts provided in the optical element 13_23. By fitting the guide pin 13_41 provided in the optical connection component 1300b into the guide structure (hole) 13_42 of the optical connection component 1300a, the corresponding cores of the multiple optical fibers 13_01 and the optical input / output parts of the optical element 13_23 are positioned. Therefore, it is configured to achieve efficient optical connection.

[0322] Through such a structure, similar to the effect described in the ninth embodiment, a compact connector connection between an optical element and multiple optical fibers can be achieved without using a housing component provided with a mechanical extrusion component, a fastening structure, etc., such as a clamp component in an MT connector or a coil spring in an MPO connector.

[0323] In particular, in the application of the optical element, considering the application of electrically connecting the optical element to a printed circuit board or the like, it is necessary to mount the optical element on a substrate or the like. In this case, unlike the application for connecting an optical fiber accommodated in an alignment member, connecting an optical waveguide accommodated in an alignment member, or connecting an optical fiber and an optical waveguide, as described in the ninth to twelfth embodiments, it is difficult to install a clamp or a spring on the side of the optical element mounted on the substrate. In addition, it is very difficult to form a mechanical structure in a manner of fastening the pressing member from the viewpoint of mounting, thickness of the substrate, mechanical interference with other components mounted on the mounting substrate, and the like.

[0324] In the case of this structure, the magnetic structure 13_03 provided on the substrate 13_22 side may be Fig.31A and Fig.31B The magnetic block shown, or a simple magnetic metal block such as SUS430, and the structure is very simple. Therefore, the magnetic structure 13_03 can be easily arranged on the substrate 13_22 or near the optical element 13_23, and this plays a great effect in realizing a compact optical connection structure.

[0325] The optical element 13_23 is, for example, a light emitting element, a light receiving element, a light modulating element or an optical functional element. Distributed feedback (DFB) laser array, distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) laser array, vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) array are well known as light emitting elements. The light receiving element is, for example, a photodetector (PhotoDetecter) array.

[0326] The optical modulation element can be constructed by, for example, an optical modulation element modulated directly on a light emitting element, an optical modulation element integrating an electro-absorption (EA) modulator, or an external modulation element constructed by a Mach-Zehnder interference loop or a ring modulator loop. The optical functional element is a beam splitter, a wavelength multiplexer / demultiplexer, an optical switch, a polarization control element, an optical filter, etc.

[0327] Any of these can be used as an optical element. A photonic integrated circuit (PIC) can also be used as an optical element, in which the various elements described above (such as light emitting elements, light receiving elements, light modulating elements, and optical functional elements) are integrated on a silica-based PLC by monolithic integration or in a hybrid manner, which is a substrate for optical waveguides, Si waveguides, polymer waveguides, InP waveguides, LN waveguides, etc.

[0328] In any case, any optical element including a plurality of light input / output sections and configured to input / output light to the outside when connected to an external optical fiber or an optical waveguide can be applied to the present invention.

[0329] In addition, the positioning structure arranged on the side of the optical element 13_23 is not limited to the present embodiment, and can be any one, as long as the positioning structure exerts a positioning effect similar to the effect described above. For example, the V-shaped groove on which the guide pin 13_41 can be installed can be formed as a separate component and arranged on both sides of the optical element. Alternatively, the V-shaped groove can be directly manufactured and formed on the optical element by machining, photolithography, etc. In this case, the positioning of the positioning structure and the optical element can be determined by process accuracy or machining accuracy.

[0330] As mentioned above, the positioning structure does not always need to be directly integrated with the optical element 13_23, and the positioning structure can be indirectly integrated via an intervening substrate, etc. In addition, the guide pin 13_41 can be provided on the optical element 13_23 side, and the guide hole 13_42 is provided on the optical fiber connection side.

[0331] <Modified Example of Thirteenth Embodiment>

[0332] Fig.32A and Fig.32B Perspective views showing an optical connection structure before and after connection according to a modified example of the present embodiment of the present invention.

[0333] Basically, the modified example is similar to the present embodiment, but an optical path conversion structure 13125 for changing the light traveling direction near the light input / output portion of the optical element is integrated, and the optical connection is made by so-called vertical coupling. Any known method, such as integrating a grating coupler, integrating a reflector, or integrating a curved waveguide in a photonic integrated circuit or near the light input / output portion, can be used as an optical path conversion means.

[0334] Even in this configuration, a compact optical connector connection structure can be realized by using the magnetic attractive force as described above without using mechanical parts.

[0335] <Fourteenth Embodiment>

[0336] Fig.33A , Fig.33B and Fig.33C The optical connection structure 1400 is constructed by connecting an optical connection component 1400a and an optical connection component 1400b.

[0337] The constituent elements and the connection structure are substantially the same as those of the ninth embodiment, but the arrangement position of the magnetic structure 14_03 is different from that of the ninth embodiment.

[0338] That is, if Figure 20G As shown, the magnetic structure 14_03 is not only arranged in the surrounding of the alignment component 14_02, but also arranged in the connection end surface of the alignment component 14_02. A recessed structure for accommodating the magnetic structure 14_03 is partially provided in advance near the connection end surface of the alignment component 14_02. The magnetic structure 14_03 or a part of the magnetic structure 14_03 is arranged in the recessed structure. Here, the recessed structure also includes a notch.

[0339] In addition, at least one of the magnetic structures 14_03 includes a magnet of a hard magnetic structure, similar to the embodiment described above. Through such a structure, similar to the ninth embodiment, a compact optical connection structure can be achieved without using any mechanical parts or any fastening structure.

[0340] In addition, by increasing the area of ​​the magnetic structure 14_03 on the end face, the substantial cross section of the magnet can be increased, and the magnetic force can be greatly generated without increasing the external dimensions, or the external dimensions can be reduced with the same magnetic force. Therefore, a more compact optical connection structure can be achieved.

[0341] <Fifteenth Embodiment>

[0342] Fig.34A and Fig.34B 15 shows side cross-sectional views of an optical connection structure 1500 according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention before and after connection. The optical connection structure 1500 is constructed by connecting an optical connection component 1500a and an optical connection component 1500b.

[0343] The basic structure is similar to a combination of the fourteenth embodiment and the thirteenth embodiment, but the magnetic structures 15_03_1 and 15_03_2 protrude from the connection end face of the alignment member 15_02 and the connection end face of the optical fiber 15_01.

[0344] In addition, the objects to be connected are an optical element 15_23 and a plurality of optical fibers 15_01.

[0345] In addition, include reference Fig.23C The optical element 15_23 and the anti-reflection film of the microlens array structure 15_26 described in the ninth embodiment are formed on the corresponding connection end faces of the optical element and the optical fiber 15_01, thereby performing spatial system coupling.

[0346] In addition, the magnetic structures 15_03_1 and 15_03_2 are arranged on the connection end surface of the alignment member 15_02 and have a predetermined thickness. The total thickness of the two magnetic structures 15_03_1 and 15_03_2 is equal to the same thickness as the optimal gap required for the spatial coupling system. In addition, one magnetic structure 15_0_1 on the alignment member 15_02 side of the magnetic structure is a magnet, and the other magnetic structure 15_03_2 is SUS430 as a soft magnetic material.

[0347] When connected, optical coupling is performed by the positioning structure. A magnetic attraction force is generated between the magnetic structure 15_03_1 provided on the connection end face of the alignment part 15_02 and the magnetic structure 15_03_2 provided near the end face of the optical element, and the connection state is maintained.

[0348] Additionally, as mentioned above, the gap (cavity) between the optical element 15_23 and the optical fiber 15_01 is defined by the combined thickness of the magnetic structures 15_03_1 and 15_03_2.

[0349] By such a structure, similar to the ninth embodiment, a compact optical connection structure can be realized without using any mechanical parts or any fastening structure. In addition, by defining the gap, efficient optical connection can be easily realized.

[0350] Here, in Fig.34A and Fig.34BIn the configuration, the magnetic structures 15_03_1 and 15_03_2 are small in size, and thus the magnetic attraction force generated is small. However, in applications where spatial coupling is performed without abutting coupling by PC connection or matching agent, excessive stress for elastically deforming the fiber end face required for PC connection, etc. is unnecessary. Therefore, if only an application for maintaining connection is considered, a smaller magnetic attraction force will be sufficient.

[0351] In addition, if attachment / detachment is not required, the magnetic structures 15_03_1 and 15_03_2 can be permanently connected to each other by additional mechanical parts, adhesives, etc., so as to further maintain the connection state after positioning. With this arrangement, optical connection can be achieved without making the external dimensions larger than the external dimensions of the alignment component 15_02, and a further compact optical connection structure can be achieved.

[0352] <Modification Example of Fifteenth Embodiment>

[0353] Fig.35A and Fig.35B 15 is a schematic diagram showing an optical connection structure according to a modified example of the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention before and after connection.

[0354] Although the basic structure is similar to that of the fifteenth embodiment, the magnetic structure 151_03 is arranged on the connecting end surface of the alignment component 151_02, and the magnetic structure 151_03 extends along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber so as to penetrate into the alignment component 151_02.

[0355] Therefore, while exerting an effect similar to that of the fifteenth embodiment described previously, the effective magnetic area can be made larger without making the outer dimensions particularly larger than the outer dimensions of the alignment member 151_02. The magnetic attraction force can be set to be larger than Fig.34A and Fig.34B Therefore, a further compact optical connection structure can be achieved.

[0356] If necessary, a configuration in which metal spacers made of a soft magnetic material are interposed may be adopted as a means for controlling the gap.

[0357] In addition, a similar effect can be exerted by a configuration in which no lens is formed on the optical fiber and the optical element, and another optical component on which a microlens array is formed is arranged on the optical connection end face. In addition, another optical functional element (lens, Faraday rotator, polarization separation element, wavelength multiplexing / demultiplexing element, etc.) can be integrated in the gap.

[0358] <Sixteenth Embodiment>

[0359] Fig.36Aand Fig.36B 16 shows perspective views of an optical connection structure 1600 according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention before and after connection. The optical connection structure 1600 is constructed by connecting an optical connection component 1600a and an optical connection component 1600b.

[0360] The constituent elements and the connection structure are basically similar to those of the ninth embodiment, but the arrangement position of the magnetic structure is different from that of the ninth embodiment.

[0361] The magnetic structure is Fig.21D The exemplary structure shown. Surrounding the alignment member 16_02 is a metal plate 16_03_3 made of SUS430 as a soft magnetic material. A magnet 16_03_1 made of a hard magnetic material surrounds the optical fiber ribbon 16_04 at the edge of the alignment member 16_02 opposite to the connection end face in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber (the insertion side of the optical fiber ribbon 16_04).

[0362] The corresponding NS poles etc. are appropriately magnetized so that magnetic attraction acts between the magnets when the NS poles are connected. With such a structure, similar to the ninth embodiment, a compact optical connection structure can be realized without using any mechanical parts or any fastening structure.

[0363] In addition, by forming the periphery of the alignment member 1602 from a SUS metal plate 16_03_3 made of a soft magnetic material (the SUS metal plate 16_03_3 is relatively thin and has a thickness of, for example, 0.5 mm), the increase in the external shape of the connection end face in the optical connection structure can be minimized. In addition, by increasing the substantial magnet volume by enlarging the external shape of the magnet 16_03_1 provided on the optical fiber ribbon 16_04 side, sufficient magnetic force can be generated. Even when the same pressing force is generated, a further compact optical connection structure can be achieved.

[0364] For example, a general MT ferrule has a thickness of 2.5 mm, but the thickness of the optical fiber ribbon 16_04 is about 0.3 mm to about 0.5 mm. Therefore, arranging the magnet 16_03_1 around the optical fiber ribbon can reduce the hollow portion of the magnet for accommodating the optical fiber ribbon. Therefore, the volume of the magnet can be easily increased and sufficient magnetic force can be generated without greatly increasing the external shape of the connection structure.

[0365] <Modification Example 1 of Sixteenth Embodiment>

[0366] According to the sixteenth embodiment ( Fig.36A and Fig.36B ) of the modified example 1 has a magnetic structure 161_03 even incorporated into the alignment member 161_02, such as FIG. 37A to FIG. 37CAs shown. The built-in part is constructed by a nickel member, which is a soft magnetic material. The object to be connected is a polymer waveguide 161_27. A magnet is provided on the side opposite to the connection end face in the longitudinal direction of the polymer waveguide 161_27, which can generate sufficient magnetic force without making the external specifications greater than the external specifications of the alignment component 161_02.

[0367] <Modification Example 2 of Sixteenth Embodiment>

[0368] Reference Fig.38 Description of the sixteenth embodiment ( Fig.36A and Fig.36B ) of the optical connection structure of modified example 2. Fig.38 The optical connection structure according to this modification example is along the Fig.36B A cross-sectional view taken from the plane corresponding to plane C in FIG.

[0369] like Fig.38 As shown, SUS430 as the magnetic structure 162_03 has a structure 162_44 that supports the guide pin 162_41 of the positioning structure.

[0370] Conventionally, when the guide pin 162_41 is inserted into the guide hole 162_42 to serve as a male for engagement, it is actually necessary to hold the guide pin 162_41 so that it does not fall out of the guide hole 162_42. In addition, a metal component needs to be separately added at one end of the MT ferrule opposite to the connection end face as a mechanism component for holding.

[0371] In this structure, the structure constructed of a soft magnetic material that generates magnetic attraction is used as an anti-falling structure 162_44. Integrating these functions can reduce the number of components and correspondingly contribute to reducing the size.

[0372] and Fig.36A and Fig.36B On the contrary, a structure (not shown) can be adopted in which the alignment member is surrounded by a magnet and SUS430 as a soft magnetic material is arranged on the optical fiber ribbon side. Even in this case, the soft magnetic material plays the role of a so-called yoke and prevents the magnetic lines of force from being constrained to the outside. Therefore, the magnetic attraction force can be enhanced.

[0373] In addition, in this embodiment and Modification Example 2 ( Fig.36A and Fig.36B as well as Fig.38 ), for the magnets surrounding the optical fiber ribbons 16_04 and 162_04, any structure described in the ninth to sixteenth embodiments may be adopted with respect to the direction of magnetization, the magnet division structure, etc.

[0374] In addition, even when the objects to be connected are optical waveguides as optical waveguide components and optical elements, it is similarly applicable. In addition, any combination is applicable to the form of the connection end faces.

[0375] <Seventeenth Embodiment>

[0376] Fig.39A and Fig.39B A perspective view and a cross-sectional view of an optical connection structure 1700 according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention are shown. The optical connection structure 1700 includes an optical connection component 1700a, an optical connection component 1700b, and a board 17_03_03. The structure of the optical connection component can be any combination obtainable from the ninth embodiment to the sixteenth embodiment.

[0377] Here, the plate 17_03_03 is arranged to surround the periphery of each of the connected pair of magnetic structures. The plate 17_03v03 is made of a soft magnetic material such as metal. For example, the plate 17_03_03 is a plate made of SUS430 or nickel.

[0378] By such a structure, not only can a compact optical connection structure as in the ninth to sixteenth embodiments be realized, but also the magnetic lines of force can be prevented from leaking to the outside, thereby strengthening the constraint on the magnetic circuit. Therefore, the magnetic attraction can be further improved, and an optical connection component and an optical connection structure that are further reduced in size can be provided.

[0379] It is not necessary for the plate 17_03_03 to be in contact with the entire circumference of the periphery, and a similar effect is exerted when the plate 17_03_03 is a plate in contact with at least one face.

[0380] At the same time, preventing the magnetic lines from leaking to the outside leads to reducing the influence of the magnetic force on the outside. This plays an auxiliary effect of preventing the magnet from being adsorbed to the surrounding members and eliminating the adverse effects of the magnetic field. Here, the shape of the plate 17_03_03 is arbitrary, and if necessary, the periphery of the magnetic structure can be a processed structure, or can be a structure in contact with at least one surface.

[0381] In addition, even when the first to sixteenth connection structures themselves are arranged in a plurality of strings, one plate may be provided so as to be in contact with each connection structure or to accommodate each connection structure in accordance with the shape.

[0382] <Modification Example of Seventeenth Embodiment>

[0383] Fig.40 According to the seventeenth embodiment ( Fig.39A and Fig.39B ) is a perspective view of an optical connection structure of a modified example of .

[0384] like Fig.40 As shown, on the side opposite to the connection end face in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber (the side on which the optical waveguide component is inserted), a soft magnetic material or a magnet is additionally arranged as a stopping structure 17_27 near the end face of the alignment component 17_02 opposite to the connection end face (the side on which the optical waveguide component is inserted), and exists in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber.

[0385] With this arrangement, a large external force is applied in the direction opposite to the magnetic attraction between the connection end faces in the connection structure. Even when an external force exceeding the magnetic attraction is applied, disconnection due to mechanical interference or different magnetic repulsion can be prevented, and a compact and stable optical connection structure can be achieved.

[0386] <Eighteenth Embodiment>

[0387] Fig.41 FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an optical connection structure 1800 according to an eighteenth embodiment of the present invention. Fig.42 Shown Fig.41 The optical connection structure 1800 includes an optical connection component 1800a, an optical connection component 1800b and a plate 18_03_03. The structure of the optical connection component can be any combination obtainable from the ninth embodiment to the seventeenth embodiment. It is desirable that both of the pair of magnetic structures 18_03_1 to be connected are magnets as hard magnetic materials.

[0388] Here, the plate 18_03_3 is arranged to contact one surface of each of the bottom surface and the side surface of the pair of connected magnetic structures 18_03_01. The plate 18_03_3 is made of metal or other magnetic materials. For example, the plate 18_03_3 is a plate of SUS430.

[0389] By such a structure, not only can a compact optical connection structure as in the ninth to twelfth embodiments be realized, but also the magnetic lines of force can be prevented from leaking to the outside, thereby strengthening the constraint on the magnetic circuit. Therefore, the magnetic attraction can be further improved, and an optical connection component and an optical connection structure that are further reduced in size can be provided.

[0390] At the same time, preventing the magnetic lines from leaking to the outside leads to reducing the influence of the magnetic force on the outside. This plays an auxiliary effect of preventing the magnet from being attracted to the surrounding members and eliminating the adverse effects of the magnetic field.

[0391] In addition, at this time, if Fig.42 As shown, magnet 18_03_01 is pulled to the surface of a plate 18_03_03.

[0392] With such a structure, the positioning accuracy when the positioning component is engaged can be further improved.

[0393] That is, when using guide pins 18_41 and the like for engagement, from the perspective of insertability, a slight gap needs to be set between the pins 18_41 and the holes 18_42 of these pins, that is, a movable gap between the guide pins 18_41 located on the male and female sides and the guide holes 18_42, and this gap may reduce the positioning accuracy.

[0394] With this structure, the fitting part moves in one direction of the gap by the attraction of the magnet 18_03_01 for pulling the alignment member 18_02. Therefore, if the relative position between the corresponding optical fiber 18_01 and the guide pin 18_41 is adjusted in advance so as to be in the optimal position in the offset direction, an additional effect of improving the positioning accuracy of the optical fiber 18_01 can be achieved.

[0395] This effect can also be achieved through Fig.43 That is, when the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber is taken as the center, by asymmetrically setting the arrangement of the two opposite alignment components 18_02 and the magnetic structure 18_03_01 in the vertical direction of the paper relative to the direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane, in addition to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber as shown in the figure, the vector of the attractive force of the magnet 18_03_01 is slightly applied in the direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0396] Therefore, by the attractive force of the magnet 18_03_01 for pulling the alignment member 18_02, the engaging portion of the positioning structure moves in one direction of the gap.

[0397] This can have the additional effect of improving the positioning accuracy of the optical fiber. Even if the magnetic structure 18_03_01 is arranged on one side around the alignment component 18_02, such as Fig.44 As shown, and the guide pin 18_41 is SUS4340, which is a soft magnetic material, can also exert an effect similar to the effect described above.

[0398] <Nineteenth Embodiment>

[0399] Fig.45A and Fig.45B 19 shows cross-sectional views of an optical connection structure 1900 according to a nineteenth embodiment of the present invention before and after connection. The optical connection structure 1900 includes an optical connection component 1900a and an optical connection component 1900b.

[0400] This structure is basically similar to that of the ninth embodiment, but a metal foil 19_28 containing a soft magnetic material (metal magnetic material) is inserted between opposing magnetic structures 19_03. For example, a metal foil of SUS430 having an opening for the alignment member 19_02 is inserted.

[0401] By such a structure, not only can a compact optical connection structure be realized without using any mechanical parts as in the ninth embodiment, but also the cavity between the magnetic structures 19_03 is filled with magnetic material. Therefore, the gap of the magnetic structure 19_03 that may appear due to mechanical tolerance can be reduced.

[0402] That is, in the previous embodiment, due to mechanical tolerance, a gap (cavity) may appear between the relative magnetic structures 19_03. If the gap is large, the magnetic attraction may be reduced, and the magnetic attraction may be reduced compared to the design.

[0403] In this embodiment, the magnetic structure 1903 is inserted to eliminate the gap (cavity), which can suppress the reduction of the magnetic attraction to the outside and confine the magnetic attraction to the magnetic circuit. Therefore, even if there is a tolerance, the influence of the reduction of the magnetic force can be minimized.

[0404] Although various different first to eleventh embodiments have been described, it goes without saying that the present invention can be applied to any combination derived from the description of the first to eleventh embodiments with respect to the objects to be connected, the connection structure, the connection end face structure, the positioning structure, the structure / arrangement / joining form of the magnetic structure, the materials / arrangement of the various constituent parts, etc.

[0405] In embodiments according to the invention, the magnetic structure (engagement component) may be completely or partially provided with hard magnetic material, such as magnets.

[0406] In the embodiment according to the present invention, the configuration using two guide pins has been shown, but the number of guide pins is not limited to two, and may be any other plural number.

[0407] In the embodiments according to the present invention, permanent magnets are used as hard magnetic materials, but they are not limited to permanent magnets. Even if the hard magnetic material is not a magnet that is not a permanent magnet, it is sufficient as long as the hard magnetic material can maintain the magnetic force for a predetermined period of time. Considering the fact that the optical connector according to the present invention is mainly used in optical communication systems, etc., any other magnet that can maintain a magnetic force of 1N or more for at least 10 years can be used, as described above.

[0408] In the embodiment according to the present invention, the magnetic structure can be constructed so that each component is completely made of a magnet or a soft magnetic material, but the present invention is not limited to the described example. Even if each component is constructed to partially contain a magnet or a soft magnetic material, as long as the attraction or repulsion of the magnet or magnetic material acts and functions in each component, a similar effect can be exerted.

[0409] In the embodiments according to the present invention, actual specifications are described for the construction parts and components of the optical connecting components and the optical connecting structure, but these specifications are not limited, and any other specifications are sufficient as long as the corresponding construction parts and components, etc. can function.

[0410] Industrial Applicability

[0411] The present invention relates to an optical connecting component and an optical connecting structure which are compact in size, and can be applied to an apparatus and a system of optical communication and the like.

[0412] Reference numerals list

[0413] 100 Optical connection structure (optical connector)

[0414] 100a, 100b Optical connecting components

[0415] 101 Optical waveguide components (optical fiber)

[0416] 102 Alignment components

[0417] 103 Magnetic material structure (joining parts)

[0418] 1041 Guide pin

[0419] 1042 Guide pin hole

Claims

1. An optical connecting component, the optical connecting component is used to connect to another optical connecting component, the optical connecting component comprising: Optical waveguide components; an alignment component, the alignment component being used to fix the optical waveguide component; a magnetic structure, the magnetic structure being integrated with the alignment component; and a positioning structure, the positioning structure being arranged on a connection end surface of the alignment component, the positioning structure determining a relative position between the connection end surface and a connection end surface of an alignment component arranged in the other optical connection component; Wherein, the magnetic structure extends longer than the alignment component on the surface side opposite to the connection end surface, and the thickness of the magnetic structure on the surface side opposite to the connection end surface is thicker than the thickness of other parts of the magnetic structure; Wherein, the magnetic structure comprises: a magnet, the magnet being disposed on an end surface of the alignment member opposite to the connection end surface and being made of a hard magnetic material; and A metal plate, which is provided at an outer peripheral surface between the connection end surface and an end surface opposite to the connection end surface of the alignment member, is connected to the magnet and is made of SUS430.

2. The optical connecting component according to claim 1, wherein At least a portion of the magnetic structure includes a hard magnetic material.

3. The optical connecting component according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The optical waveguide component is an optical element mounted on a substrate, The alignment component includes the positioning structure arranged on the substrate, The positioning structure is arranged around the optical element or near the end face of the optical element, and The magnetic structure is bonded to the optical element.

4. The optical connecting component according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The magnetic structure includes a magnet having an N pole and an S pole along a longitudinal direction of the optical waveguide component.

5. The optical connecting component according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The magnetic structure includes a magnet having an N pole and an S pole along a circumferential direction of the alignment member.

6. The optical connecting component according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The magnetic structure includes a plurality of first magnets arranged along a longitudinal direction of the optical waveguide component and a plurality of second magnets arranged in a peripheral direction, and the plurality of first magnets and the plurality of second magnets are arranged so that opposite faces of adjacent magnets have different polarities.

7. The optical connecting component according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The magnetic structure is disposed on at least a portion of the alignment feature.

8. The optical connecting component according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: A portion of the connection end surface of the alignment member has a recessed structure with respect to a longitudinal direction of the optical waveguide member, and at least a portion of the magnetic structure is arranged in the recessed structure.

9. The optical connecting component according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: At least a portion of the magnetic structure is incorporated into the alignment feature.

10. The optical connecting component according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The positioning structure is a guide pin protruding from the connection end surface of the alignment component, and the guide pin is configured to be fitted into a guide hole provided on the connection end surface of the alignment component provided in the other optical connection component, and The magnetic structure has a retaining mechanism that prevents the guide pin from falling off.

11. The optical connecting component according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: A plate is mounted on at least one face of each peripheral portion of the magnetic structure, and The plates consist of a soft magnetic material.

12. The optical connecting component according to claim 11, wherein: A stopper structure is provided on the plate, and the stopper structure restricts movement in a direction opposite to a direction toward the connection end face in the longitudinal direction of the optical waveguide component.

13. The optical connecting component according to claim 11, wherein The positioning structure has a gap movable in a direction perpendicular to a horizontal plane, and the positioning structure moves in one direction by a magnetic force acting between the plate and the magnetic structure.

14. An optical connection structure, wherein: The optical connecting components according to claim 2 are connected to each other so that the opposite connecting end faces of the optical connecting components have different polarities.

15. An optical connection structure in which the optical connection components according to claim 1 are connected to each other, wherein: At least a portion of the magnetic structure of one of the optical connection components contains a hard magnetic material, and the magnetic structure of the other of the optical connection components is made of a soft magnetic material.

16. The optical connection structure according to claim 14 or claim 15, wherein: The positioning structure provided in one of the optical connecting components is a guide pin, the positioning structure provided in the other of the optical connecting components is a guide hole, and the guide pin and the guide hole are fitted with each other.

17. The optical connection structure according to claim 14 or claim 15, further comprising a foil member, the foil member being arranged on at least one connection end surface of the magnetic structure, the foil member comprising a metallic magnetic material.

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