Support structure for optical fibers and semiconductor laser module

Abstract

A support structure for an optical fiber, for example, has a first member (11, 12) that supports an optical fiber (20) having a core wire including a core and a cladding, and a coating that surrounds the core wire, a second member (14) that is attached to the first member (11, 12), and a relief member (13) that is provided in contact with an end portion of the core wire and between the first member (11, 12) and the second member (14), has a light receiving surface that receives light input from a space, and has an area that is larger than that of the end portion. The relief member (13) can also be in contact with or attached to the first member (11, 12) and the second member (14), respectively. The relief member (13) is attached to the member of the first member (11, 12) and the second member (14) on one side, and a gap is provided between the relief member (13) and the member of the first member (11, 12) and the second member (14) on the other side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the support structure of optical fibers and semiconductor laser modules. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, in semiconductor laser modules that couple a spatially multiplexed laser to the end (input end) of an optical fiber core, a support structure for the optical fiber with a buffer member grounded to that end is known. (For example, Patent Document 1)

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2017 / 134911 Summary of the Invention

[0006] -The problem the invention aims to solve-

[0007] In such an optical fiber support structure and a semiconductor laser module having such an optical fiber support structure, for example, it is desirable to have an improved new structure of optical fiber support structure and semiconductor laser module with fewer defects, in which the buffering member is not easy to fall off, or the buffering member is easy to install during the assembly of the optical fiber support structure, etc.

[0008] Therefore, one of the objectives of this invention is to obtain, for example, a support structure for an optical fiber with an improved new structure having fewer defects, and a semiconductor laser module having such a support structure for the optical fiber.

[0009] -Methods for solving problems-

[0010] In the support structure of the optical fiber of the present invention, for example, it includes: a first member that supports the optical fiber having a core wire including a core and a cladding and a covering surrounding the core wire; a second member that is mounted on the first member; and a buffer member that is configured to be connected to the end of the core wire and located between the first member and the second member, having a light-receiving surface for receiving light input from space, the area of ​​the light-receiving surface being larger than the area of ​​the end.

[0011] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the buffer member may also be in contact with the first member and the second member respectively, or may be installed on the first member and the second member respectively.

[0012] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the buffer member may be supported at at least one location on the first member and the second member, and at a total of three or more locations on the first member and the second member.

[0013] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the buffering member may be supported at at least two locations on the first member and the second member, respectively.

[0014] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the buffer member may be installed on one of the first member and the second member, with a gap provided between the buffer member and the other of the first member and the second member.

[0015] In the support structure of the optical fiber, it may also be configured to ensure the gap is above -20°C and below 120°C.

[0016] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the gap may also be 0.05 mm or more and 0.6 mm or less at -20°C.

[0017] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the second member may have an opening that exposes the connection portion between the end and the buffer member to the side opposite to the first member.

[0018] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the opening may also be a through hole.

[0019] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the opening may also be a notch.

[0020] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the second component may also be made of Invar steel, which shrinks more than at room temperature at temperatures higher than room temperature.

[0021] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the buffering member may also be a transparent member with a transmittance of more than 99% relative to the light input to the light-receiving surface.

[0022] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the buffer member may also be made of a material having the same refractive index as the fiber core.

[0023] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the buffering member may also be made of quartz glass material.

[0024] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the end can also be fused to the buffer member.

[0025] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the buffer member may also be supported by an adhesive on at least one of the first member and the second member.

[0026] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the elastic modulus of the adhesive after curing may be less than that of the first component and the second component.

[0027] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the adhesive may also be an organic adhesive.

[0028] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the buffer member may be supported by an adhesive on at least one of the first member and the second member, and the member of the first member and the second member that is in contact with the adhesive has a first covered portion that covers the adhesive on the side opposite to the end relative to the light-receiving surface.

[0029] In the support structure of the optical fiber, at least one of the first member and the second member may have a second covering portion that covers the portion of the light-receiving surface that is offset from the light-receiving area.

[0030] In the support structure of the optical fiber, there may also be a fixing member that fixes the first member and the second member.

[0031] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the first component and the second component may also be joined by a snap-fit ​​mechanism.

[0032] In the support structure of the optical fiber, the optical fiber may also have a stripped end, in which the coating is removed in a given interval from the end, exposing the core wire, and comprising: a processing material, which is contained in a receiving chamber disposed within the first member in a state existing around the stripped end, and allows light leaking from the stripped end to pass through or be scattered.

[0033] The semiconductor laser module of the present invention includes, for example,: a support structure for an optical fiber; a semiconductor laser element; and an optical system that guides the laser emitted from the semiconductor laser element toward the mitigation member and is coupled to the end via the mitigation member.

[0034] Alternatively, the semiconductor laser element may be a plurality of semiconductor laser elements, and the optical system may guide the laser output from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements to the mitigation member and couple it to the end via the mitigation member.

[0035] -Invention Effects-

[0036] According to the present invention, a new structure for supporting optical fibers with fewer defects and further improvement is obtained, as well as a semiconductor laser module. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1This is an illustrative and schematic perspective view of the support member according to the first embodiment.

[0038] Figure 2 This is an illustrative and schematic top view of the support member of the first embodiment.

[0039] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram showing the optical path inside the end cap of the first embodiment.

[0040] Figure 4 This is an illustrative and schematic front view of the support member according to the first embodiment.

[0041] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 VV sectional view.

[0042] Figure 6 This is an illustrative and schematic top view of the support member of the first variation of the first embodiment.

[0043] Figure 7 This is an illustrative and schematic front view of the support member of the second variation of the first embodiment.

[0044] Figure 8 This is an illustrative and schematic front view of the support member of the third variation of the first embodiment.

[0045] Figure 9 This is an illustrative and schematic front view of the support member of the fourth variation of the first embodiment.

[0046] Figure 10 This is an illustrative and schematic front view of the support member of the fifth variation of the first embodiment.

[0047] Figure 11 This is an illustrative and schematic front view of the support member of the sixth variation of the first embodiment.

[0048] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 Sectional view XII-XII.

[0049] Figure 13 The support member of the seventh variation of the first embodiment is... Figure 12 A sectional view at the same location.

[0050] Figure 14 This is an illustrative and schematic front view of the support member of the eighth variation of the first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 15 This is an exemplary schematic structural diagram of the light-emitting device according to the second embodiment.

[0052] Figure 16 This is an illustrative and schematic perspective view of a part of the light-emitting device of the second embodiment.

[0053] Figure 17 This is an exemplary schematic structural diagram of the light-emitting device according to the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments and modifications of the present invention are disclosed. The structure of the embodiments and modifications shown below, as well as the effects and results (effects) brought about by such structures, are examples. The present invention can also be implemented with structures other than those disclosed in the embodiments and modifications below. Furthermore, according to the present invention, at least one of various effects (including derived effects) obtained by the structure can be obtained.

[0055] The embodiments and variations shown below have the same structure. Therefore, based on the structure of each embodiment and variation, the same function and effect based on the same structure can be obtained. Furthermore, in the following, the same reference numerals are sometimes used to refer to these same structures, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0056] exist Figures 1-5 In the diagrams, arrow X represents the X direction, arrow Y represents the Y direction, and arrow Z represents the Z direction. The X, Y, and Z directions intersect and are orthogonal to each other.

[0057] In this specification, ordinal numbers are assigned for the convenience of distinguishing parts, components, and locations, and do not indicate priority or order.

[0058] [First Implementation Method]

[0059] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the support member 10A (10) according to the first embodiment. The support member 10A is mainly used in various optical devices to support the end of the optical fiber 20, which serves as the output optical fiber for laser output. The support member 10A can also be referred to as an end support structure or a support portion. The support member 10A is an example of an optical fiber support structure.

[0060] like Figure 1 As shown, the support member 10A includes a base 11, a cover 12, an end cap 13, and a retainer 14.

[0061] The base 11 has a cuboid shape extending in the X direction and supports the optical fiber 20 extending in the X direction.

[0062] The base 11 has a surface 11a at one end located on the opposite side of the Z direction and a surface 11b at one end located in the Z direction.

[0063] Face 11a faces the opposite direction to the Z direction, intersecting and perpendicular to the Z direction. Face 11a is a rectangular plane.

[0064] Face 11b faces the Z direction, intersecting and orthogonal to it. Face 11b has three faces 11b1, 11b2, and 11b3 offset in the Z direction. Faces 11b1, 11b2, and 11b3 all face the Z direction, intersecting and orthogonal to it. Faces 11b1, 11b2, and 11b3 are all planes. Face 11b2 is located offset in the opposite direction from face 11b1 in the Z direction, and face 11b3 is located offset in the opposite direction from face 11b2 in the Z direction. Faces 11b1, 11b2, and 11b3 form a height difference. Faces 11a, 11b1, 11b2, and 11b3 are parallel to each other.

[0065] The cover portion 12 intersects and is orthogonal to the Z direction. The cover portion 12 has a rectangular shape extending in the X direction.

[0066] Both the base 11 and the cover 12 can be made of materials with high thermal conductivity, such as copper-based materials or aluminum-based materials.

[0067] The optical fiber 20 is housed in a housing chamber S (see reference) located between the base 11 and the cover 12 and extending along the X direction. Figure 5 Inside the containment chamber S, a light processing mechanism 40 is constructed. The light processing mechanism 40 will be described later.

[0068] The cover 12 is fixed to the base 11, for example, by a fastener 16 such as a screw. By integrating the base 11 and the cover 12 with the stripped end 20a of the optical fiber 20 and the processing material contained within the space, a structure that houses the stripped end 20a and the processing material within the space can be achieved with a relatively simple structure. The optical fiber 20 is supported by the base 11 and the cover 12. The base 11 and the cover 12 are examples of the first components, also referred to as support components. Alternatively, the base 11 and the cover 12 can also be integrated by a different joining method than the joining based on the fastener 16.

[0069] The end cap 13 is surrounded by a base 11 and a retainer 14 located on the opposite side of the base 11 relative to the end cap 13. The retainer 14 is secured to the base 11 by fasteners 16 such as screws. The retainer 14 is mounted to the base 11 with the end cap 13 sandwiched between it and the base 11. The retainer 14 is an example of a second component. Alternatively, the base 11 and the retainer 14 can be integrated through a different connection method than the connection based on the fastener 16.

[0070] Figure 2 This is a partial top view of the supporting member 10A. (For example...) Figure 2As shown, the end cap 13 faces the X direction relative to the front end 20a1 of the stripped end 20a, i.e., the front end 20a1 of the core wire 21. The end cap 13 has a cylindrical portion 13a and a protrusion 13b. The cylindrical portion 13a has a cylindrical shape and a diameter that is sufficiently larger than the diameter of the stripped end 20a, extending in the X direction. The area of ​​the X-direction end face 13a1 of the cylindrical portion 13a is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the front end 20a1. Furthermore, the protrusion 13b has a conical shape and protrudes from the cylindrical portion 13a near the front end 20a1 in the opposite direction of the X direction. The front end of the protrusion 13b is, for example, fused to the stripped end 20a. The front end 20a1 is an example of an end. In addition, the shape of the end cap 13 is not limited to such a shape. For example, the end cap 13 may not have the protrusion 13b and may only have the cylindrical portion 13a.

[0071] The end cap 13 is, for example, a transparent component with a transmittance of more than 99% relative to light received at the end face 13a1 and transmitted in the optical fiber 20 (core 21). The end cap 13 can be made of a material having the same refractive index as the core of the optical fiber 20. As an example, the end cap 13 can be made of the same quartz-based glass material as the core of the optical fiber 20.

[0072] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the optical path of the laser L reaching the front end 20a1 of the core wire 21 within the end cap 13. Assuming a structure without the end cap 13, when a laser beam focused by a condenser lens (not shown) arrives at the front end 20a1 of the stripped end 20a, the power density becomes excessively high as the beam diameter decreases at the front end 20a1, which forms the interface. This results in an excessive temperature rise, potentially damaging the front end 20a1. Therefore, in this embodiment, by connecting the end cap 13 to the front end 20a1, the interface is enlarged. Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the laser L reaches the end face 13a1 of the end cap 13, which is wider than the front end 20a1, with a larger beam diameter and lower power density. Therefore, excessive temperature rise or even damage can be suppressed on both the end face 13a1, which becomes the interface, and the front end 20a1 of the core wire 21, which becomes the light guide member. The end cap 13 is an example of a mitigation member. The end face 13a1 is an example of a light-receiving surface.

[0073] Furthermore, an AR (anti-reflection) coating is applied to the end face 13a1 of the end cap 13 on the side opposite to the protrusion 13b. This suppresses light reflection at the end face 13a1.

[0074] In addition, such as Figure 2As shown, the retainer 14 has a notch 14a that opens in the opposite direction to the x-direction. Through this notch 14a, the connection between the protrusion 13b of the end cap 13 and the front end 20a1 of the core wire 21 is exposed in the Z-direction, that is, on the side opposite to the base 11. With this structure, the connection status between the protrusion 13b and the front end 20a1 can be confirmed through the notch 14a by the operator's visual inspection or by camera-based imaging. The notch 14a is an example of an opening.

[0075] Figure 4 This is the front view of the support member 10A as viewed from the opposite direction of the X direction. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the retainer 14 is adjacent to the surface 11b3 of the base 11 in the Z direction.

[0076] The retainer 14 has two sidewalls 14b separated in the Y direction and extending in the Z direction, and a top wall 14c extending in the Y direction between the Z-direction ends of the sidewalls 14b. The two sidewalls 14b and the top wall 14c cover the cylindrical portion 13a of the end cap 13.

[0077] Furthermore, two protrusions 11c are provided on the surface 11b3 of the base 11. The protrusions 11c are separated in the Y direction, protruding from the surface 11b3 in the Z direction and extending in the X direction. Each protrusion 11c has an inclined surface 11c1. The inclined surface 11c1 faces radially inward toward the central axis (i.e., optical axis Ax) of the cylindrical portion 13a of the end cap 13. The inclined surface 11c1 is a plane extending in a direction orthogonal to the radial direction (tangential direction) of the optical axis Ax and extending axially along the optical axis Ax, i.e., in the Z direction. The outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 13a is tangent to these inclined surfaces 11c1.

[0078] The outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 13a is also tangent to the inner surface 14c1 of the top wall 14c of the retainer 14 on the side opposite to the two protrusions 11c. This inner surface 14c1 is a plane extending in the Y direction and in the Z direction. That is, this inner surface 14c1 is also a plane extending in a direction orthogonal to the radial direction (tangential direction) of the optical axis Ax and in the axial direction of the optical axis AX.

[0079] Thus, the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 13a is internally tangent to the two inclined surfaces 11c1 and the inner surface 14c1, i.e., the three surfaces. The cylindrical portion 13a, i.e., the end cap 13, is supported by the support member 10A through line contact with these three surfaces, or through surface contact with a slender surface extending in the X direction with a small width. In this case, the support member 10A can support the end cap 13 without the use of adhesives or the like.

[0080] In such a structure, the retainer 14 may also be made of Invar steel, for example. In this specification, Invar steel refers to a component that shrinks more at temperatures higher than normal than at normal temperature; an example is an iron alloy containing nickel (nickel alloy). When this support member 10A is assembled into a device containing an adhesive as a thermosetting resin, it may sometimes reach a high-temperature state after partial assembly (post-assembly). The temperature at this high-temperature state during thermosetting is, for example, 130°C. In such a case, if the thermal expansion of the end cap 13 is hindered by the base 11 and the retainer 14, the stress acting on the end cap 13 and the peeling end 20a connected to it becomes high, potentially leading to deformation or damage to the end cap 13 and the peeling end 20a. In this regard, when the retainer 14 is made of Invar steel, even if the end cap 13 is thermally expanded, the thickness t of the top wall 14c of the retainer 14 is reduced, and the thermal expansion of the end cap 13 is not excessively hindered. Therefore, the deformation and damage of the end cap 13 and the peeling end 20a can be suppressed.

[0081] In addition, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, a reflective portion 11d is provided at a position opposite to the end cap 13 in the X direction. The reflective portion 11d faces the end cap 13. The reflective portion 11d is provided in the base 11 on the surface with a height difference extending in the Z direction between surfaces 11b1 and 11b2. The reflective portion 11d can be constructed, for example, by processing and plating a portion of the base 11, or a separately manufactured reflective portion 11d can be mounted on the base 11. With this structure, the reflective portion 11d reflects light from the end cap 13 that is not coupled to the fiber core of the optical fiber 20 in the direction away from the end cap 13, which, in this embodiment, is the Y direction or the opposite direction of the Y direction, for example. This avoids the situation where light leaking from the end cap 13 is reflected back to the end cap 13 by the base 11, etc., and the temperature of the end cap 13 rises. In addition, the reflective portion 11d is not limited to Figure 1 , Figure 2 The structure is as follows. Alternatively, a scattering section having a scattering surface that scatters light can be provided instead of the reflecting section 11d.

[0082] [Light Processing Unit]

[0083] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 The VV sectional view is a sectional view of the light processing mechanism 40. For example... Figure 5As shown, the cover portion 12 has a surface 12a at one end located opposite to the Z-direction and a surface 12b at one end located in the Z-direction. In the cover portion 12, a covering surface 11b1 is present. Surface 12a faces and is in contact with surface 11b1. Furthermore, a groove 11e is provided on surface 11b1 of the base 11, recessed in the opposite direction to the Z-direction and extending in the X-direction. The groove 11e is a so-called V-groove forming a V-shaped cross-section in a section intersecting the X-direction. The groove 11e is provided between two surfaces 11e1 and 11e2. Surface 11e1 extends in the direction opposite to the Z-direction as it moves towards the Y-direction, and also extends in the X-direction. Surface 11e2 extends in the direction towards the Z-direction as it moves towards the Y-direction, and also extends in the X-direction.

[0084] The containment chamber S, surrounded by the surfaces 11e1 and 11e2 of the groove 11e and the surface 12a of the cover 12, extends along the X direction. An optical fiber 20 extending along the X direction is contained in the containment chamber S.

[0085] Furthermore, surfaces 11e1, 11e2, and 12a suppress positional displacement of the peeling end 20a in a direction orthogonal to the X direction. Surfaces 11e1, 11e2, and 12a can also be referred to as positioning parts or displacement prevention parts.

[0086] The processing material 15 is housed in the portion of the housing S excluding the optical fiber 20. The optical processing mechanism 40 includes the processing material 15. The processing material 15 exists around the stripped end 20a (core wire 21) in contact with it. The core wire 21 has a core 21a and a cladding 21b. The processing material 15 allows light leaking from the cladding 21b of the stripped end 20a to pass through or scatter. This suppresses the propagation of light from the cladding 21b to the coating 22. Furthermore, the processing material 15 can also convert light energy into heat energy.

[0087] The treatment material 15 can be made of an inorganic adhesive, for example, that has the property of allowing light to pass through or scatter. Inorganic adhesives are, for example, silicon-based or alumina-based adhesives. In this case, the inorganic adhesive is applied in an uncured state and then cured, thereby forming a ceramic-like film. The inorganic adhesive is capable of allowing light to pass through or scatter. Furthermore, if an organic solvent is used in the inorganic adhesive, the organic solvent evaporates during curing. Inorganic adhesives have high heat resistance, making them suitable as treatment material 15.

[0088] Furthermore, the processing material 15 can also be made of a resin material that has the property of allowing light to pass through or scatter. Examples of resin materials include silicone, epoxy, or polyurethane acrylate. The resin material may contain fillers such as boron nitride, talc, or aluminum nitride (AlN). In this case, light is also scattered due to the filler. Furthermore, it is preferable that the refractive index of the filler is higher than that of the cladding layer 21b. However, the resin material and filler are not limited to the substances described above.

[0089] As explained above, in this embodiment, the end cap 13 (relaxing member) is supported by the base 11 (first member) and the retainer 14 (second member) while being sandwiched between them. In other words, the end cap 13 is located between the base 11 and the retainer 14 and is in contact with both the base 11 and the retainer 14.

[0090] With this structure, for example, the end cap 13 can be mounted to the base 11 more easily or reliably. Furthermore, for example, compared to the case without the retainer 14, it is possible to suppress interference between the end cap 13 and tools or components during manufacturing, or to suppress stray light entering the end cap 13. Alternatively, the end cap 13 can also be mounted to at least one of the base 11 or the retainer 14 via, for example, an adhesive. However, by not using an adhesive in fixing the end cap 13, advantages such as reduced manufacturing costs or suppression of defects caused by adhesives can be obtained.

[0091] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a notch 14a (opening) is provided in the retainer 14, through which the connection portion of the protrusion 13b of the end cap 13 and the front end 20a1 of the core wire 21 of the optical fiber 20 is exposed on the side opposite to the base 11. With this structure, the connection status of the protrusion 13b and the front end 20a1 can be confirmed through the notch 14a by the operator's visual recognition, camera-based imaging, etc.

[0092] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the retainer 14 is made of Invar steel. With this structure, for example, even in the event of thermal expansion of the end cap 13, the retainer 14 will not excessively impede the thermal expansion of the end cap 13, thus suppressing deformation and damage to the end cap 13 and the peeling end 20a.

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the end cap 13 is supported at at least one location on both the base 11 and the retainer 14, and is supported at a total of three or more locations on both the base 11 and the retainer 14. With this structure, for example, positional displacement of the end cap 13 can be suppressed more reliably.

[0094] [First Variation]

[0095] Figure 6 This is a top view of the support member 10B(10) of the first modified example of the first embodiment. For example... Figure 6 As shown, in this modified example, instead of a notch 14a, a through hole 14d is provided on the retainer 14B as an opening. Except for the through hole 14d in place of the notch 14a on the retainer 14B, the support member 10B has the same structure as the support member 10A in the first embodiment. The through hole 14d penetrates the top wall 14c in the Z direction, thereby exposing the connection portion between the protrusion 13b of the end cap 13 and the front end 20a1 of the core wire 21 on the side opposite to the base 11. With this structure, the connection state between the protrusion 13b and the front end 20a1 can be confirmed through the through hole 14d by the operator's visual identification, camera-based imaging, etc.

[0096] [Second variation]

[0097] Figure 7 This is a front view of the support member 10C(10) of the second variation of the first embodiment. (See attached image.) Figure 7 As shown, in this modified example, inclined surfaces 14e are provided at the corners of two portions between the two side walls 14b and the top wall 14c on the retainer 14C. The inclined surfaces 14e are radially inward toward the central axis (i.e., the optical axis Ax) of the cylindrical portion 13a of the end cap 13. The inclined surfaces 14e are planes extending in a direction orthogonal to the radial direction (tangential direction) of the optical axis Ax and extending in the axial direction of the optical axis Ax, i.e., the Z direction. The outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 13a is tangent to these inclined surfaces 14e. The cylindrical portion 13a, i.e., the end cap 13, is supported by the support member 10C through line contact with a total of five surfaces: the two inclined surfaces 11c1 of the protrusion 11c, the two inclined surfaces 14e, and the inner surface 14c1 of the top wall 14c of the retainer 14, or through surface contact with a narrow surface extending in the Z direction. In this modified example, the support member 10C can also support the end cap 13 without the use of adhesives or the like.

[0098] Furthermore, according to this modified example, the end cap 13 is supported at at least two locations on the base 11 and the retainer 14, and is supported at a total of four or more locations on the base 11 and the retainer 14. With such a structure, for example, positional displacement of the end cap 13 can be suppressed more reliably.

[0099] [Third variation]

[0100] Figure 8 This is a front view of the support member 10D(10) of the third variation of the first embodiment. Figure 8As shown, in this modified example, the end cap 13 is also located between the base 11 and the retainer 14D. However, in this modified example, the end cap 13 does not contact the retainer 14D, and a gap g is provided between the end cap 13 and the retainer 14D. On the other hand, the end cap 13 contacts the base 11, and the outer peripheral surface of the end cap 13 is bonded to the inclined surface 11c1 of the protrusion 11c via adhesive 17. In other words, the end cap 13 is mounted to the base 11 via adhesive 17. With this structure, the adhesive 17 ensures that the end cap 13 is supported by the base 11 or the retainer 14D, and compared with the case without gap g, the force acting on the end cap 13 from the base 11 or the retainer 14D can be reduced, and the deformation or damage of the end cap 13 due to the force can be suppressed.

[0101] Here, the support member 10D is configured such that, within the temperature range in which the support member 10D is used, for example, between -20°C and 120°C, the gap g is larger than 0.05 mm, and more preferably 0.1 mm or larger. With this structure, it is possible to suppress the end cap 13 from being compressed between the base 11 and the retainer 14D due to the thermal expansion and contraction of the components, thereby preventing deformation or damage to the end cap 13.

[0102] In addition, the thermal expansion of each component can be assumed, and the size of the gap g (g) can be set to, for example, satisfy the following equation (1).

[0103] g>ΔT(αh×t+αe×D)···(1)

[0104] Here, ΔT is the maximum temperature difference of the support member 10D, αh is the coefficient of thermal expansion of the retainer 14D, t is the thickness of the top wall 14c of the retainer 14D, αe is the coefficient of thermal expansion of the end cap 13, and D is the diameter of the end cap 13. In addition, Equation (1) is based on the premise that the length Lt between the end face of the retainer 14D in the Z direction and the end of the end cap 13 in the opposite direction of the Z direction is approximately constant.

[0105] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of preventing tools such as tweezers or foreign objects from entering the gap g, the gap g is preferably 0.6 mm or less, and more preferably 0.4 mm or less.

[0106] Furthermore, the elastic modulus of the adhesive 17 in its cured state is preferably lower than that of the base 11 and the retainer 14D. According to this structure, the protective properties of the end cap 13 can be further improved through the cushioning effect of the adhesive 17, which is softer than the base 11 and the retainer 14D. Furthermore, from this perspective, the adhesive 17 is preferably an organic adhesive.

[0107] Furthermore, a layer of light-absorbing material, such as a black coating, can be applied to the inner surfaces 14b1 and 14c1 of the retainer 14D facing the end cap 13. With this structure, stray light (leakage light) reaching the inner surfaces 14b1 and 14c1 can be suppressed from being reflected by these surfaces and coupled to the end cap 13. Alternatively, the inner surfaces 14b1 and 14c1 can simply be referred to as surfaces. Furthermore, the layer of light-absorbing material can also be provided on the surface of the base 11 facing the end cap 13.

[0108] In addition, in this modified example, the surface 11b3 of the base 11 is in contact with the bottom surface 14b2 of the retainer 14D. Furthermore, the end cap 13 is mounted on the base 11 as an example, but it is not limited to this. The end cap 13 can also be mounted on the retainer 14D, and a gap g is provided between the end cap 13 and the base 11.

[0109] [Fourth variation]

[0110] Figure 9 This is a front view of the support member 10E(10) of the fourth variation of the first embodiment. Figure 9 As shown, in this modified example, in relation to the support member 10C of the second modified example (refer to...), Figure 7 In the same structure, a gap g is provided between the end cap 13 and the retainer 14E. Furthermore, in this modified example, the end cap 13 is mounted to the two protrusions 11c of the base 11 via an adhesive 17. In other words, the end cap 13 is mounted to the base 11 at multiple locations. With this structure, the same effect as the third modified example described above regarding the gap g and the adhesive 17 can also be obtained.

[0111] Alternatively, the end cap 13 can be installed on the retainer 14E at multiple locations, and a gap g is provided between the end cap 13 and the base 11.

[0112] [Fifth Variation]

[0113] Figure 10 This is a front view of the support member 10F(10) of the fifth variation of the first embodiment. Figure 10 As shown, the retainer 14F has an end wall 14f. The end wall 14f, at a position offset further in the X direction than the end face 13a1 of the end cap 13 in the X direction, intersects and is orthogonal to the X direction with a given thickness. An opening 14f1 is provided in this end wall 14f to expose the light-receiving area of ​​the end face 13a1. With this structure, the retainer 14F can cover a wider area around the end cap 13, thus further improving the protective properties of the end cap 13. The end wall 14f is an example of a second covering portion that covers the peripheral portion of the end face 13a1, which is the light-receiving surface, and is an example of a portion offset from the light-receiving area.

[0114] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown, the end wall 14f is positioned in the X direction offset relative to the end face 13a1; in other words, it is positioned relative to the end face 13a1 and the front end 20a1 of the optical fiber 20 (see reference). Figure 3 The adhesive 17 is covered on the opposite side (etc.). With this structure, stray light (leakage light) traveling toward the adhesive 17 in the opposite direction to the X direction can be blocked by the end wall 14f, thus suppressing the deterioration of the adhesive 17 caused by this stray light. The end wall 14f is an example of the first coating portion.

[0115] [Sixth Variation]

[0116] Figure 11 This is a front view of the support member 10G(10) of the sixth variation of the first embodiment. Figure 12 yes Figure 11 Sectional view XII-XII. In this modified example, as... Figure 12 As shown, the sidewall 14b and top wall 14c of the retainer 14G extend further forward in the X direction than the end face 13a1 of the end cap 13. Furthermore, as... Figure 11 , 12 As shown, each of the two sidewalls 14b has a protrusion 14g that protrudes from the portion near the surface 11b3 of the base 11 in a direction toward each other. The protrusion 14g partially covers the periphery of the end cap 13 without obstructing the optical path of light passing through the end cap 13, and covers the adhesive 17 on the side opposite to the end face 13a1 and the front end 20a1 of the optical fiber 20. According to this structure, the protective properties of the end cap 13 can be further improved by the top wall 14c, the sidewalls 14b, and the protrusion 14g. In addition, the protrusion 14g can block stray light that travels toward the adhesive 17 in a direction generally opposite to the X direction, and can suppress the degradation of the adhesive 17 caused by such stray light. The protrusion 14g is an example of the first coating portion and also an example of the second coating portion.

[0117] [Seventh Variation]

[0118] Figure 13 The support member 10H(10) of the seventh variation of the first embodiment is related to Figure 12A cross-sectional view at the same location. In this modified example, no protrusion is provided in the retainer 14H; instead, a protrusion 11f is provided in the base 11H. The protrusion 11f has the same shape and structure as the protrusion 14g in the sixth modified example described above. However, the protrusion 11f protrudes in the Z direction from the surface 11b3 of the base 11H. With this structure, the protective properties of the end cap 13 can be further improved by utilizing the protrusion 11f. Furthermore, the protrusion 11f can block stray light that travels toward the adhesive 17 in a direction generally opposite to the X direction, thus suppressing the deterioration of the adhesive 17 caused by this stray light. The protrusion 11f is an example of both the first and second coating portions.

[0119] [Eighth Variation]

[0120] Figure 14 This is a front view of the support member 10I(10) of the eighth variation of the first embodiment. (See attached image.) Figure 14 As shown, in this modified example, the base 11I and the retainer 14I are connected via a snap-fit ​​mechanism 18. The snap-fit ​​mechanism 18 has a recess 11g provided in the base 11I and a hook 14h having a claw and an arm that insert into the recess 11g. When the retainer 14I is assembled to the base 11I, the retainer 14I approaches in the opposite direction of the Z direction relative to the base 11I. The retainer 14I moves further in the opposite direction of the Z direction while the arm of the hook 14h is elastically bent and deformed by the opposing pressure from the base 11I. At the point when the claw of the hook 14h reaches the position overlapping with the recess 11g, the pressure from the base 11I on the hook 14h is released, thereby inserting the claw into the recess 11g, and the retainer 14I is assembled to the base 11I. Figure 14 The assembly state is shown. In the assembled state, the claw hook engages with the recess 11g, thereby preventing the base 11I from separating from the retainer 14I. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 18 is not limited to... Figure 14 For example, the recess can be provided on the retainer 14I and the claw can be provided on the base 11I. In addition, the latching mechanism can be any structure that can fix the base 11I and the retainer 14I, or it can be provided on a component that is different from the base 11I and the retainer 14I.

[0121] [Second Implementation]

[0122] Figure 15 This is a simplified structural diagram of the light-emitting device 30A according to the second embodiment, and is a top view of the interior of the light-emitting device 30A viewed in the opposite direction to the Z direction with the cover removed. The light-emitting device 30A is an example of an optical device, and can also be referred to as a semiconductor laser module.

[0123] like Figure 15As shown, the light-emitting device 30A includes: a base 31; an optical fiber 20 fixed to the base 31; a plurality of light-emitting units 32; and a light-synthesizing unit 33 that synthesizes light from the plurality of light-emitting units 32.

[0124] Optical fiber 20 is an output optical fiber, which is fixed to the base 31 via the support member 10 of the first embodiment or its variation.

[0125] The support member 10 can be integrally formed with the base 31 as part of the base 31, or it can be installed on the base 31 as a separate member from the base 31, for example, by means of fasteners such as screws.

[0126] The base 31 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as copper-based or aluminum-based materials. The base 31 is covered by a cover (not shown). The optical fiber 20, the light-emitting unit 32, the photosynthesis unit 33, and the support member 10 are housed in a receiving chamber formed between the base 31 and the cover and are sealed.

[0127] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of a part of the light-emitting device 30A. (See image below.) Figure 16 As shown, on the base 31, arrays A1 and A2 are respectively configured for arranging multiple light-emitting units 32 at a given interval (e.g., a fixed interval) in the X direction. Figure 16 Only array A2 is shown in the diagram. A height difference surface 31c is provided so that the position of the light-emitting unit 32 shifts in the Z direction as it moves towards the X direction. The height difference surface 31c extends along both the X and Y directions. The light-emitting unit 32 is mounted on the height difference surface 31c. The X1 direction is an example of a first direction. Furthermore, the height difference surface can also be called a mounting surface. Moreover, according to this structure, at the location where the light-emitting unit 32, collimating lens 33b, and reflector 33c are provided, the thickness of the base 31 in the Z direction increases as it moves towards the X direction.

[0128] As an example, the light-emitting unit 32 is a chip-on-a-heat-sink. Each light-emitting unit 32 has a heat sink 32a and a light-emitting element 32b mounted on the heat sink 32a. The light-emitting element 32b is, for example, a semiconductor laser chip. Multiple light-emitting elements 32b, for example, output light of the same wavelength (single wavelength).

[0129] like Figure 15 As shown, light emitted from multiple light-emitting elements 32b is combined by a light-combining unit 33. The light-combining unit 33 includes optical components such as collimating lenses 33a and 33b, reflectors 33c and 33d, a combiner 33e, and condenser lenses 33f and 33g. The optical components included in the light-combining unit 33 are an example of an optical system that optically connects the light-emitting elements 32b (light-emitting units 32) to the optical fiber 20.

[0130] Collimating lens 33a collimates the light to the Z direction (fast axis direction), and collimating lens 33b collimates the light to the X2 direction (slow axis direction). Collimating lens 33a is mounted, for example, on heat sink 32a and integrated with light-emitting unit 32. Collimating lens 33b is mounted on elevation difference surface 31c on which corresponding light-emitting unit 32 is mounted.

[0131] The reflector 33c directs light from the collimating lens 33b to the synthesizer 33e. The reflector 33c is mounted on a height difference surface 31c on which the corresponding light-emitting unit 32 and collimating lens 33b are mounted. That is, the light-emitting unit 32, the collimating lens 33b through which light from the light-emitting element 32b of the light-emitting unit 32 passes, and the reflector 33c that reflects light from the collimating lens 33b are mounted on the same height difference surface 31c. Specifically, for each of arrays A1 and A2, the light-emitting unit 32, collimating lens 33b, and reflector 33c arranged in the Y direction are mounted on the same height difference surface 31c. Furthermore, the position of the height difference surface 31c in the Z direction and the dimension of the reflector 33c in the Z direction are set so as not to interfere with light from other reflectors 33c. Hereinafter, the light-emitting unit 32, collimating lens 33b, and reflector 33c mounted on the height difference surface 31c will sometimes be referred to simply as mounting components. Furthermore, the light-emitting unit 32, the collimating lens 33b, and the reflector 33c may not be mounted on the same surface (plane) with different elevation differences.

[0132] Combiner 33e combines the light from the two arrays A1 and A2 and outputs it towards condenser lens 33f. Light from array A1 is input to combiner 33e via mirror 33d and half-wave plate 33e1, while light from array A2 is directly input to combiner 33e. Half-wave plate 33e1 rotates the polarization plane of the light from array A1. Combiner 33e can also be called a polarization combining element.

[0133] Condensing lens 33f focuses light in the Z direction (fast axis direction). Condensing lens 33g focuses light from condensing lens 33f in the Y direction (slow axis direction) and optically couples it to the end of optical fiber 20. Condensing lens 33g can be mounted on support member 10 or on base 31. Condensing lens 33f can also be mounted on support member 10.

[0134] The effects of the first embodiment described above can also be obtained in the light-emitting device 30A of this embodiment.

[0135] [Third Implementation Method]

[0136] Figure 17This is a top view of the light-emitting device 30B according to the third embodiment. The light-emitting device 30B is an example of an optical device and can also be called a semiconductor laser module. In this embodiment, the elevation difference surface 31c extends along the X and Y directions and is offset in the Z direction, forming a stepped shape. Light from the reflector 33c passes through the condenser lens 33f, the low-pass filter 33h, and the condenser lens 33g, and then passes through the core wire 21 of the optical fiber 20 supported by the support member 10, reaching the front end 20a1 (…). Figure 17 (Not shown in the figure) Coupling. In this embodiment, the thickness of the base 31 in the Z direction also increases towards the X direction. The effects of the first embodiment described above are also achieved in the light-emitting device 30B of this embodiment.

[0137] The above embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated, but these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The above embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, combinations, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the specifications of various structures, shapes, etc. (construction, type, orientation, model, size, length, width, thickness, height, quantity, configuration, position, material, etc.) can be appropriately modified for implementation.

[0138] Industrial availability

[0139] This invention can be used in the support structure of optical fibers and in semiconductor laser modules.

[0140] -Explanation of Figure Markers-

[0141] 10, 10A~10I… Supporting components (support structures)

[0142] 11, 11H, 11I… Base (First Component)

[0143] 11a…face

[0144] 11b…

[0145] 11b1, 11b2, 11b3...

[0146] 11c…protrusion

[0147] 11c1… Inclined surface

[0148] 11d…reflector

[0149] 11e…groove

[0150] 11e1, 11e2... face

[0151] 11f…protrusions (first covered portion, second covered portion)

[0152] 11g…concave part

[0153] 12…Cover

[0154] 12a, 12b...

[0155] 13…End cap (weakening component)

[0156] 13a…Cylindrical part

[0157] 13a1…end face

[0158] 13b…protrusion

[0159] 14, 14B~14I… Retainer (Second Component)

[0160] 14a…Gap (Opening)

[0161] 14b…sidewall

[0162] 14b1…Inner surface

[0163] 14b2…bottom

[0164] 14c…top wall

[0165] 14c1…inner surface

[0166] 14d… Through hole (opening)

[0167] 14e… Inclined surface

[0168] 14f… End walls (first covered portion, second covered portion)

[0169] 14f1…opening

[0170] 14g…protrusions (first covered portion, second covered portion)

[0171] 14h…hook

[0172] 15…processing materials

[0173] 16…fasteners

[0174] 17…Adhesive

[0175] 18…Snap-fit ​​mechanism

[0176] 20… fiber optic

[0177] 20a…stripping end

[0178] 20a1…Frontend

[0179] 21…core wire

[0180] 21a…core fiber

[0181] 21b…cladding

[0182] 22…covered

[0183] 30A, 30B… Light-emitting devices (optical devices)

[0184] 31…base

[0185] 31c…Elevation Difference Surface

[0186] 32…light-emitting units

[0187] 32a…heat sink

[0188] 32b…Light Emitting Element

[0189] 33…Photosynthesis Department

[0190] 33a…collimating lens

[0191] 33b…collimating lens

[0192] 33c…reflector

[0193] 33d…reflector

[0194] 33e… synthesizer

[0195] 33e1…1 / 2 wavelength plate

[0196] 33f… Condensing lens

[0197] 33g… Condensing lens

[0198] 33h…low-pass filter

[0199] 40…Light processing unit

[0200] A1, A2... array

[0201] Ax…optical axis

[0202] D…diameter

[0203] g…gap

[0204] L…laser

[0205] Lt… length

[0206] S… containment chamber

[0207] t…thickness

[0208] X…direction

[0209] Y...direction

[0210] Z…direction

Claims

1. A support structure for an optical fiber, characterized in that, have: A first component supports an optical fiber having a core and a cladding and a covering surrounding the core. The first component has a base and a cover. The base has a first surface facing each other in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the optical fiber extends and a second surface forming a height difference. The cover is mounted on the second surface of the base. The second component is installed on the second surface of the base in a region different from the region where the cover is installed; as well as A buffer member, configured to connect to the end of the core wire and located between the base and the second member, has a light-receiving surface for receiving light input from space, the area of ​​which is larger than the area of ​​the end. The mitigation component is installed on the base. A gap is provided between the buffer member and the second member. A reflective portion is provided on the first member at a position opposite to the light-receiving surface relative to the end, which reflects the light leaking from the softening member in a direction away from the softening member.

2. The optical fiber support structure according to claim 1, wherein, The configuration ensures the gap is maintained above -20°C and below 120°C.

3. The optical fiber support structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The gap is above 0.05 mm and below 0.6 mm at -20°C.

4. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second component has an opening that exposes the connection portion between the end and the buffer component to the side opposite to the first component.

5. The optical fiber support structure according to claim 4, wherein, The opening is a through hole.

6. The optical fiber support structure according to claim 4, wherein, The opening is a notch.

7. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second component is made of Invar steel, which shrinks more at temperatures higher than normal than at normal temperature.

8. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The mitigation member is a transparent member with a transmittance of more than 99% relative to the light input to the light-receiving surface.

9. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The buffer component is made of a material having the same refractive index as the fiber core.

10. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The mitigation component is made of quartz glass.

11. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The end is fused to the buffer member.

12. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The buffering member is supported by an adhesive on at least one of the first member and the second member.

13. The optical fiber support structure according to claim 12, wherein, The elastic modulus of the adhesive in its cured state is less than that of at least one of the first component and the second component.

14. The optical fiber support structure according to claim 12, wherein, The adhesive is an organic adhesive.

15. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The buffering member is supported by an adhesive on at least one of the first member and the second member. The first component and the component in the second component that are in contact with the adhesive have a first covered portion that covers the adhesive on the side opposite to the end relative to the light-receiving surface.

16. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, At least one of the first component and the second component has a second covering portion that covers a portion of the light-receiving surface that is offset from the light-receiving area.

17. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The support structure of the optical fiber has a fixing member that fixes the first member and the second member.

18. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first component and the second component are joined by a snap-fit ​​mechanism.

19. The support structure for the optical fiber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The optical fiber has a stripped end, which removes the coating within a given interval from the end, exposing the core wire. The support structure of the optical fiber includes: a processing material that is contained in a receiving chamber disposed within the first member in a state existing around the stripped end, and allows light leaking from the stripped end to pass through or be scattered.

20. A semiconductor laser module, characterized in that, have: The support structure for the optical fiber according to any one of claims 1 to 19; Semiconductor laser components; and An optical system that guides the laser emitted from the semiconductor laser element toward the mitigation member and is coupled to the end via the mitigation member.

21. The semiconductor laser module according to claim 20, wherein, As the semiconductor laser element, it comprises multiple semiconductor laser elements. The optical system guides the laser light output from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements toward the mitigation member and couples it to the end via the mitigation member.

Images