A multi-core optical fiber connection device

Abstract

The embodiment of the application provides a multi-core optical fiber connecting device, which comprises a first connector, a second connector and an adapter, the first connector and the second connector are respectively arranged on two sides of the adapter; wherein the first connector and the second connector respectively comprise a glass capillary, a multi-core optical fiber, a ceramic sleeve, a flange and a lens, the multi-core optical fiber is packaged in the glass capillary, the lens is packaged at one end of the glass capillary away from the flange, and the glass capillary is arranged in the ceramic sleeve, and the flange is arranged at one end of the ceramic sleeve away from the lens; the adapter comprises a flange limiter. The technical scheme of the application can realize flexible butt joint between optical fibers, reduce the risk of burning optical fibers, and further ensure the stability of transmission performance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of optical communication, and more specifically, to a multi-core optical fiber connection device. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid growth of data traffic in optical networks, the demand for high-bandwidth optical communication is increasing. Space division multiplexing (SDM) systems using multi-core fiber (MCF) are expected to overcome current transmission limitations, optimize transmission capacity and performance, and meet ultra-wideband communication requirements.

[0003] Optical connectors, as fundamental components for building optical communication networks, maintain high-precision coupling and eliminate the impact of deformation on connection stability. However, current multi-core fiber connection technologies have excessively high requirements, such as high-precision processing of alignment structures, a high risk of fiber burn-out due to physical contact, and limitations in multi-core fiber connections. These inevitably affect the transmission capacity and performance of optical communication.

[0004] Therefore, how to achieve flexible interconnection between multi-core optical fibers, reduce the risk of fiber burn-out, and thus ensure the stability of transmission performance is an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a multi-core optical fiber connection device that enables flexible docking between multi-core optical fibers, reduces the risk of fiber burn-out, and thus ensures the stability of transmission performance.

[0006] In a first aspect, a multi-core optical fiber connection device is provided, comprising: a first connector, a second connector, and an adapter, wherein the first connector and the second connector are respectively disposed on both sides of the adapter;

[0007] The first connector includes a glass capillary, a multi-core optical fiber, a ceramic sleeve, a flange, and a lens. The multi-core optical fiber is encapsulated within the glass capillary, and the lens is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary away from the flange. The glass capillary is disposed within the ceramic sleeve, and the flange is disposed at the end of the ceramic sleeve away from the lens. The adapter includes a flange limiter.

[0008] Similarly, the second connector also includes a glass capillary tube, a multi-core optical fiber, a ceramic sleeve, a flange, and a lens. The specific implementation is similar to that of the first connector, and for the sake of simplicity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0009] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the flange limiter is used to determine the position of the reference plane, which is the overlapping position of the imaging planes of the lens in the first connector and the lens in the second connector.

[0010] It should be noted that this application does not specifically limit the number of lenses in the first connector and the second connector.

[0011] According to the solution provided in this application, a non-contact multi-core fiber optic connector with a spatial optical path is used to achieve the docking of multi-core optical fibers, eliminate fiber deformation caused by stress during the docking process, and reduce the risk of fiber burnout.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first connector further includes a spring positioned at the end of the glass capillary near the flange.

[0013] Similarly, the second connector also includes a spring, and its implementation is similar to that of the first connector. For the sake of simplicity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0014] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the spring is used to provide a biasing force between the first connector and the second connector, and the spring is also used to fix the position and angle of the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector and the multi-core optical fiber in the second connector in conjunction with the flange and the flange limiter.

[0015] In this implementation, a spring provides biasing force, and a flange and flange limiter are used to fix the position and angle of the multi-core optical fiber in the connector.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the lens in the first connector is a collimating lens, and the lens in the second connector is a focusing lens; wherein the collimating lens and the focusing lens respectively include microlenses or lens arrays.

[0017] A collimating lens is an instrument that can transform light rays from every point in an aperture frame into a parallel collimated beam. A focusing lens is an instrument that can focus and image the parallel collimated beam, and its cylindrical shape makes both types of lenses applicable to a variety of miniature optical systems.

[0018] In this implementation, the multi-core optical fiber of the first connector is incident parallel to the collimating lens and focused into the focusing lens in the second connector. The multi-core optical fiber is connected by a non-contact multi-core optical fiber connector in a spatial optical path, thereby eliminating the fiber deformation caused by stress during the connection process and reducing the risk of fiber burnout.

[0019] For example, the lens may be a microlens (C-lens) or a self-focusing lens (G-lens), and this application does not specifically limit it.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the overlapping position of the imaging planes of the collimating lens and the focusing lens is the reference plane.

[0021] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the reference plane is used to determine the design of at least one lens in the first connector and at least one lens in the second connector.

[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the adapter further includes a C-sleeve, which is disposed on the side of the flange limiter near the glass capillary.

[0023] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the C-type sleeve is used to align the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector and the multi-core optical fiber in the second connector.

[0024] In this implementation, the C-type sleeve and flange limiter are used independently to achieve the alignment of multi-core optical fibers and the determination of the reference plane, making it easier to connect multi-core optical fibers of different designs. By decoupling the alignment of multi-core optical fibers and the determination of the reference plane, the problem of excessive force on the flange limiter, which would lead to complex assembly, is avoided.

[0025] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first connector and the second connector satisfy the following:

[0026]

[0027] Wherein, ΔL1 is the core pitch of the multi-core fiber in the first connector, ω1 is the mode area of ​​the multi-core fiber in the first connector, f1 is the focal length of the collimating lens, ΔL2 is the core pitch of the multi-core fiber in the second connector, ω2 is the mode area of ​​the multi-core fiber in the second connector, and f2 is the focal length of the focusing lens. , , It is a positive number.

[0028] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, when the collimating lens is a microlens and the focusing lens is a lens array, the first connector and the second connector must also satisfy the following:

[0029]

[0030] in, Let L be the divergence half-angle of the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector, and L be the distance between the lens array and the reference plane.

[0031] In this implementation, a single lens combined with a lens array structure is used, with the imaging point positions of the two sets of lenses as the reference plane, to achieve the docking of multi-core optical fibers with different designs.

[0032] In a second aspect, a method for fabricating a multi-core optical fiber connection device is provided, comprising: providing a first connector, a second connector, and an adapter, wherein the first connector includes a glass capillary tube, a multi-core optical fiber, a ceramic sleeve, a flange, and a lens; the first connector and the second connector are respectively disposed on both sides of the adapter; wherein the multi-core optical fiber is encapsulated within the glass capillary tube, and a lens is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary tube away from the flange, and a glass capillary tube is disposed within the ceramic sleeve, and a flange is disposed at the end of the ceramic sleeve away from the lens; and a flange limiter is disposed within the adapter.

[0033] Similarly, the second connector also includes a glass capillary tube, a multi-core optical fiber, a ceramic sleeve, a flange, and a lens. The specific implementation is similar to that of the first connector, and for the sake of simplicity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0034] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the flange limiter is used to determine the position of the reference plane, which is the overlapping position of the imaging planes of the lens in the first connector and the lens in the second connector.

[0035] According to the solution provided in this application, a non-contact multi-core fiber optic connector with a spatial optical path is used to achieve the docking of multi-core optical fibers, eliminate fiber deformation caused by stress during the docking process, and reduce the risk of fiber burnout.

[0036] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, a spring is placed at the end of the glass capillary of the first connector near the flange.

[0037] Similarly, the second connector also includes a spring, and its implementation is similar to that of the first connector. For the sake of simplicity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0038] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the spring is used to provide a biasing force between the first connector and the second connector, and the spring is also used to fix the position and angle of the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector and the multi-core optical fiber in the second connector in conjunction with the flange and the flange limiter.

[0039] In this implementation, a spring provides biasing force, and a flange and flange limiter are used to fix the position and angle of the multi-core optical fiber in the connector.

[0040] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the lens in the first connector is a collimating lens, and the lens in the second connector is a focusing lens; wherein the collimating lens and the focusing lens respectively include microlenses or lens arrays.

[0041] A collimating lens is an instrument that can transform light rays from every point in an aperture frame into a parallel collimated beam. A focusing lens is an instrument that can focus and image the parallel collimated beam, and its cylindrical shape makes both types of lenses applicable to a variety of miniature optical systems.

[0042] In this implementation, the multi-core optical fiber of the first connector is incident parallel to the collimating lens and focused into the focusing lens in the second connector. The multi-core optical fiber is connected by a non-contact multi-core optical fiber connector in a spatial optical path, thereby eliminating the fiber deformation caused by stress during the connection process and reducing the risk of fiber burnout.

[0043] For example, the lens may be a microlens (C-lens) or a self-focusing lens (G-lens), and this application does not specifically limit it.

[0044] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the position where the imaging planes of the collimating lens and the focusing lens coincide is the reference plane.

[0045] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the reference plane is used to determine the design of at least one lens in the first connector and at least one lens in the second connector.

[0046] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, a C-type sleeve is also configured within the adapter, and the C-type sleeve is configured on the side of the flange limiter near the glass capillary.

[0047] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the C-type sleeve is used to align the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector and the multi-core optical fiber in the second connector.

[0048] In this implementation, the C-type sleeve and flange limiter are used independently to achieve the alignment of multi-core optical fibers and the determination of the reference plane, making it easier to connect multi-core optical fibers of different designs. By decoupling the alignment of multi-core optical fibers and the determination of the reference plane, the problem of excessive force on the flange limiter, which would lead to complex assembly, is avoided.

[0049] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first connector and the second connector satisfy the following:

[0050]

[0051] Wherein, ΔL1 is the core pitch of the multi-core fiber in the first connector, ω1 is the mode area of ​​the multi-core fiber in the first connector, f1 is the focal length of the collimating lens, ΔL2 is the core pitch of the multi-core fiber in the second connector, ω2 is the mode area of ​​the multi-core fiber in the second connector, and f2 is the focal length of the focusing lens. , , It is a positive number.

[0052] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, when the collimating lens is a microlens and the focusing lens is a lens array, the first connector and the second connector also satisfy the following:

[0053]

[0054] in, L is the divergence half-angle of the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector, and L is the distance between the lens array and the reference plane.

[0055] In this implementation, a single lens combined with a lens array structure is used, with the imaging point positions of the two sets of lenses as the reference plane, to achieve the docking of multi-core optical fibers with different designs.

[0056] Thirdly, a multi-core optical fiber communication system is provided, including an optical transmitter for transmitting optical signals; an optical receiver for receiving optical signals; and a multi-core optical fiber connection device as described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect.

[0057] According to the embodiments of this application, a non-physical contact multi-core fiber optic connection device is provided using spatial optical coupling. A dual-lens structure and a single-lens combined with a lens array structure are employed to achieve flexible docking between different multi-core fibers, reducing the risk of fiber burn-out and thus ensuring the stability of transmission performance. Attached Figure Description

[0058] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a cross-section of a conventional ladder fiber optic cable to which this application applies.

[0059] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of intercore pitch conversion for multi-core optical fibers to which this application applies.

[0060] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a multi-core fiber optic connection device applicable to this application.

[0061] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a method for fabricating a multi-core optical fiber connection device applicable to this application.

[0062] Figure 5 This is another schematic diagram of a multi-core fiber optic connection device applicable to this application.

[0063] Figure 6 This is yet another schematic diagram of a multi-core fiber optic connection device applicable to this application.

[0064] Figure 7This is yet another schematic diagram of a multi-core fiber optic connection device applicable to this application.

[0065] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a multi-core optical fiber communication system applicable to this application. Detailed Implementation

[0066] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] Optical fiber, also known as fiber optic cable, is a type of fiber made of glass or plastic that serves as a means of transmitting light. The advantages of fiber optic transmission include high speed and strong resistance to interference. The fine optical fibers are encapsulated in a plastic sheath, allowing them to bend without breaking. Generally, an optical fiber consists of an optical core that transmits optical signals and an optical cladding that confines the optical signals within the core.

[0068] Most optical fibers currently in use are silica fibers. They are primarily composed of pure silicon dioxide. To alter the refractive index distribution of the fiber, suitable impurities are added. For example, doping with germanium and / or phosphorus increases the refractive index, doping with boron and / or fluorine decreases it, and doping with germanium increases it.

[0069] Figure 1 This is the cross-section of a traditional ladder-type optical fiber. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the cross-section of this optical fiber consists of two concentric circles: the core and the cladding. The central part is the core, with a radius of R. co The portion outside the fiber core is called the cladding, with a radius of R. c1 The fiber core is a single α-gradient refractive index distribution greater than or equal to 1, where α is a dimensionless parameter defining the shape of the refractive index distribution of the fiber core.

[0070] It's important to note that because light travels at different speeds in different materials, when light travels from one material to another, refraction and reflection occur at the interface between the two materials. Furthermore, the angle of refraction changes with the angle of the incident light. When the angle of the incident light reaches or exceeds a certain angle, the refracted light disappears, and all the incident light is reflected back—this is total internal reflection. Different materials refract light of the same wavelength at different angles (i.e., different materials have different refractive indices), and the same material refracts light of different wavelengths at different angles. Fiber optic communication is based on these principles.

[0071] In other words, light propagates in optical fibers using the principle of total internal reflection, which requires the refractive index of the fiber core to be higher than that of the cladding. Light enters from one end of the fiber and exits from the other, undergoing continuous total internal reflection at the interface between the core and cladding.

[0072] It should be understood that the embodiments of this application mainly focus on multi-core optical fibers and multi-core optical fiber connectors, and all the possible implementations described below are based on multi-core optical fibers.

[0073] The main application scenario of this application is the use of coupled multi-core optical fibers in transmission optical fibers. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the inter-core spacing conversion in a multi-core optical fiber. For example... Figure 2 As shown in (a), the intercore spacing of the optical fiber is relatively small. Figure 2 As shown in (b), the fiber in the amplifier uses weakly coupled multi-core amplification, resulting in a relatively large core spacing. Therefore, when connecting the transmission fiber and the fiber in the amplifier, it is necessary to ensure the alignment of the positions and angles between the multi-core fiber cores, while also achieving the conversion of the core spacing.

[0074] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, a brief explanation of several terms involved in this application will be given first.

[0075] 1. Space division multiplexing (SDM): refers to a method of multiplexing by dividing space, combining multiple optical fibers into a bundle to achieve space division multiplexing, or achieving space division multiplexing in the same optical fiber.

[0076] 2. Multi-core fiber (MCF): Multi-core fiber is a new type of optical fiber containing multiple independent cores within a common cladding region. Due to the proximity of the cores, it serves two functions. Firstly, the large core spacing prevents optical coupling. In optical communication, this fiber increases the integration density per unit area of ​​the transmission line, allowing it to be fabricated into ribbon cables with multiple cores. Secondly, the close proximity of the cores enables waveguide coupling. This further increases the integration density per unit area of ​​the transmission line and leverages waveguide mode coupling effects to achieve advantages such as increased input power and reduced transmission delay.

[0077] 3. Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM): This refers to a fiber optic data transmission technology that uses laser wavelengths to transmit data within an optical fiber in parallel bit-by-bit or string-by-string transmission. DWDM is an important component of fiber optic networks, allowing data such as email, video, multimedia, data, and voice carried under IP, ATM, and Synchronous Fiber Network / Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SONET / SDH) protocols to be transmitted through a unified fiber layer.

[0078] DWDM first assigns the incoming optical signal to a specified frequency (wavelength) within a specific frequency band, and then multiplexes the signal into a single optical fiber. This method can significantly increase the bandwidth of existing optical cables. Because the incoming signal does not terminate at the optical layer, the interface rate and format can remain independent. This allows service providers to integrate DWDM technology with existing equipment in the network, while simultaneously gaining access to a large amount of bandwidth that is not currently utilized in existing optical cables.

[0079] 4. Insertion loss (IL): This refers to the power loss of the load at a point in a transmission system due to the insertion of a component or device. It is expressed as the ratio of the power received by the load before insertion to the power received by the same load after insertion. A lower insertion loss indicates better performance.

[0080] Or, more specifically, it refers to the measurement of light loss between two fixed points in an optical fiber. It can be understood as the loss of optical power caused by the insertion of optical devices in an optical fiber link of an optical communication system. Insertion loss refers to the signal loss caused by inserting cables or components between the transmitter and receiver, usually referring to attenuation. Insertion loss is expressed in decibels (dB) corresponding to the received signal level. Insertion loss primarily refers to power loss, while attenuation refers to the reduction in the amplitude of the signal voltage relative to the original signal amplitude.

[0081] Insertion loss, also known as connection loss, refers to the loss of effective optical power in a link caused by the introduction of a connector. Lower insertion loss is better; generally, it should not exceed 0.5 dB.

[0082] Insertion loss is mainly a measurement of the signal value after an optical link encounters loss.

[0083] 5. Return loss (RL): This refers to the power loss of the reflected or returned signal caused by discontinuities and impedance mismatches when an optical fiber signal enters or leaves an optical device component (such as an optical fiber connector). A higher return loss value indicates better performance.

[0084] Return loss is mainly a measurement of the loss of reflected signals when an optical link encounters a component.

[0085] Return loss (RL) refers to the connector's ability to suppress the reflection of optical power in the link, and its typical value should be no less than 25 dB. In practical applications, the connector pins undergo special polishing treatment, which can increase the return loss, generally no less than 45 dB.

[0086] The rapid growth of optical network traffic has significantly increased the demand for high-bandwidth optical communication. To address these future requirements for high-bandwidth optical connections, increasing the number of communication channels plays a crucial role. Multi-core fiber (MCF) is one of the most promising candidates for achieving ultra-wideband optical transmission in the future.

[0087] Optical connectors are fundamental components for building optical communication networks. To a certain extent, fiber optic connectors affect the reliability and performance of optical transmission systems. Fiber optic connectors need to withstand external forces to maintain high-precision coupling (typically <1μm). Generally, optical connectors use a "floating mechanism" in transmission systems to eliminate the impact of deformation on connection stability.

[0088] MCF connectors offer a potential solution for achieving high-density, multi-channel operation. Unlike traditional single-mode fiber connectors, MCF connectors require precise angular alignment. Furthermore, the multiple cores in a multi-core fiber increase the probability of connector end-face contamination leading to burn-out, thus placing more stringent demands on connector end-face cleanliness.

[0089] In addition, multi-core fiber optic communication systems require coupling and connection of different fiber core spacings in order to optimize transmission capacity and performance. For example, coupled multi-core fibers are used for transmission, and weakly coupled multi-core amplifiers are used for amplification, in order to meet the challenges of equipment testing, installation and commissioning, fault detection and diagnosis, etc.

[0090] Because the outer core of a multi-core fiber is offset from the center of the cladding, it is necessary to ensure both precise angular and positional alignment of the rotated fiber cores. This is essential to achieve low insertion loss (IL) and stable MCF connections.

[0091] One possible implementation is to use a physical contact multi-core fiber optic connector.

[0092] In multi-core fiber optic connectors, achieving an insertion loss of less than 0.5 dB requires ensuring proper alignment using a floating sleeve while minimizing angular rotation to within ±1°. This technology utilizes gap optimization and Oldham coupling to achieve precise angular alignment. For example, in traditional SC connectors, the gap between the flange and the housing causes fiber optic rotation of approximately ±3°. By optimizing the gap between the flange and the housing, this rotation can be reduced to ±0.5°. Furthermore, the outer diameter of the flange in a traditional MU / LC connector is only two-thirds that of the SC connector, resulting in an angular rotation of ±10° due to the gap between the flange and the housing. Therefore, simple gap optimization cannot achieve precise angular alignment. This technology employs Oldham coupling, which allows for both vertical and horizontal sleeve movement while minimizing angular rotation to within 0.5°.

[0093] Similar to single-mode connectors, this technology utilizes compressive force to achieve physical contact between two multi-core optical fibers. Therefore, the cross-sectional shape of the multi-core fiber optic connector is crucial. If the cross-section of the multi-core fiber optic connector is ground into a spherical shape, a larger compressive force will be required to align the outer cores of the multi-core fibers. By designing the cross-sectional shape parameters of the multi-core fiber optic connector, an insertion loss of less than 0.3 dB can be achieved.

[0094] This implementation method can only connect multi-core optical fibers of the same design. It requires precise control of the gap between the flange and the connector, necessitating high-precision machining of the alignment structure. The physical contact and mating requires significant compressive force, leading to fiber cross-section contamination, deformation, and an increased risk of fiber burnout.

[0095] Another possible implementation is to use a cone-shaped auxiliary physical contact multi-core fiber optic connector.

[0096] This technology employs an alignment-floating scheme, where the MCF flange, in the unconnected state, contacts the conical structure of the housing to achieve rotational angle alignment, and is pushed back by the other connector in the connected state. In this implementation, a MU ferrule flange is used instead of an LC ferrule flange because the longer straight edge of the MU rectangular flange is better suited to suppress sleeve rotation compared to the LC flange with its conical and hexagonal sections. Additionally, this technology designs a new LC housing so that the flange bore has a conical interface. The straight edge of the MU flange can contact the conical interface, thus fixing the sleeve rotation angle in the unconnected state. During mating, the sleeve is pushed open by the other connector, at which point the ferrule flange returns to its floating state. The only non-standard component of the connector provided in this method is the housing with the conical bore, which does not require higher dimensional accuracy in its manufacturing. The multi-core fiber optic connector implemented using this technology has an insertion loss of less than 0.3dB and a return loss of more than 45dB.

[0097] This implementation method can only connect multi-core optical fibers with the same design. Physical contact and splicing require significant compressive force, which can lead to problems such as fiber cross-section contamination and deformation, increasing the risk of fiber burnout.

[0098] In summary, the connection flexibility between multi-core optical fibers is poor, there is a high risk of fiber burn-out, and the stability of transmission performance cannot be guaranteed. Currently, there is no solution to this technical problem.

[0099] In view of this, the embodiments of this application provide a multi-core optical fiber connection device and method, which can realize flexible docking between multi-core optical fibers, reduce the risk of fiber burn-out, and thus ensure the stability of transmission performance.

[0100] Specifically, the technical solution of this application utilizes spatial optical coupling to achieve non-physical contact multi-core fiber connections. In one implementation, a dual-lens structure is used, with the imaging points of the two lenses serving as a reference plane to connect different multi-core fibers. In another implementation, a single-lens combined with an array lens structure is used, with the imaging points of the single-lens combined with the array lens serving as a reference plane to connect different multi-core fibers.

[0101] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following points are made:

[0102] In the embodiments of this application, "at least one" means one or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural.

[0103] In the textual description of this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects have an "or" relationship.

[0104] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers described above does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0105] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first," "second," and various numerical designations are used for ease of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. For example, they can be used to distinguish different indication information.

[0106] The multi-core fiber optic connector and fiber optic communication system provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0107] In this embodiment, firstly, the lens type, focal length, and working distance are appropriately selected, and the fiber optic connector head is encapsulated based on the selected lens. Then, the fiber optic collimation-coupling optical path is designed, and the fiber optic connector adapter is encapsulated based on the designed optical path. That is, a non-physical contact multi-core fiber optic connection is achieved using a spatial optical path scheme.

[0108] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a non-physical contact multi-core fiber optic connection device 300 applicable to this application. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the multi-core fiber optic connection device includes: connector 1, connector 2 (within the dashed box), and adapter 1.

[0109] Firstly, the implementation steps for connector 1 and connector 2 are as follows:

[0110] First, the multi-core optical fiber 1 is encapsulated in a glass capillary. Second, a collimating lens is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary. Then, the glass capillary with the collimating lens encapsulated is encapsulated in a ceramic sleeve. Finally, a flange device is added to the end of the ceramic sleeve.

[0111] A collimating lens is an instrument that can transform light rays from every point in an aperture frame into a parallel collimated beam.

[0112] Similarly, the multi-core optical fiber 2 is encapsulated in a glass capillary. Next, a focusing lens is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary. Then, the glass capillary containing the focusing lens is encapsulated in a ceramic sleeve. Finally, a flange device is added to the end of the ceramic sleeve.

[0113] Among them, a focusing lens is an instrument that can focus and image the end face of a parallel collimating column.

[0114] Secondly, the implementation steps of adapter 1 are as follows:

[0115] A flange limiter device is configured within adapter 1 of the multi-core fiber optic connector. Other devices are identical in structure and packaging to the current connector and adapter, and will not be described further here.

[0116] Flange limiters are connecting components used in pipeline connections to compensate for dimensional changes caused by thermal expansion and contraction. There are two most common types of flange limiters: rubber flange limiters and metal flange limiters. They are characterized by their small size, light weight, good elasticity, and ease of installation and maintenance. Flange limiters are used as a protective measure because the temperature of the connected expansion joints or bellows can vary significantly.

[0117] For example, when two encapsulated multi-core fiber optic connectors (e.g., connector 1 and connector 2) are inserted into an adapter (e.g., adapter 1), the position and angle of the encapsulated fibers are completely fixed by the spring device in the connector and the flange limiter device in the adapter. At this time, light incident from the left multi-core fiber is collimated into parallel light by the collimating lens and transmitted in the space of adapter 1. When it is incident on the focusing lens at the end of the right fiber, it is focused into the right multi-core fiber. Therefore, by designing the focal lengths of the collimating lens and the focusing lens appropriately, as well as the transmission path of the multi-core fiber in adapter 1, the connection of different multi-core fibers can be achieved.

[0118] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an example of the fabrication method 400 of the optical fiber connection device applicable to this application. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the specific implementation methods include:

[0119] The S410 provides a first connector, a second connector, and an adapter.

[0120] The first connector and the second connector respectively include a glass capillary tube, a multi-core optical fiber, a ceramic sleeve, a flange, and a lens.

[0121] For example, a multi-core optical fiber is encapsulated in a glass capillary tube, and a lens is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary tube away from the flange; the glass capillary tube is placed in a ceramic sleeve, and a flange is configured at the end of the ceramic sleeve away from the lens; a flange limiter is configured in the adapter.

[0122] The flange limiter is used to determine the position of the reference plane, which is the overlapping position of the imaging planes of at least one lens in the first connector and at least one lens in the second connector.

[0123] S420, the first connector and the second connector are respectively positioned on both sides of the adapter.

[0124] Optionally, springs are placed at the ends of the glass capillaries of the first connector and the second connector near the flange, respectively.

[0125] It should be understood that the spring is used to provide a biasing force between the first connector and the second connector, and the spring is also used to fix the position and angle of the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector and the multi-core optical fiber in the second connector in conjunction with the flange and flange limiter.

[0126] In this implementation, a spring provides biasing force, and a flange and flange limiter are used to fix the position and angle of the multi-core optical fiber in the connector.

[0127] Optionally, the lens in the first connector is a collimating lens, and the lens in the second connector is a focusing lens; wherein the collimating lens and the focusing lens respectively include microlenses or lens arrays.

[0128] A collimating lens is an instrument that can transform light rays from every point in an aperture frame into a parallel collimated beam. A focusing lens is an instrument that can focus and image the parallel collimated beam, and its cylindrical shape makes both types of lenses applicable to a variety of miniature optical systems.

[0129] In this implementation, the multi-core optical fiber of the first connector is incident parallel to the collimating lens and focused into the focusing lens in the second connector. The multi-core optical fiber is connected by a non-contact multi-core optical fiber connector in a spatial optical path, thereby eliminating the fiber deformation caused by stress during the connection process and reducing the risk of fiber burnout.

[0130] For example, the lens may be a microlens (C-lens) or a self-focusing lens (G-lens), and this application does not specifically limit it.

[0131] For example, both the first connector and the second connector use microlenses (C-lenses) as collimating lenses and focusing lenses. Alternatively, the first connector may use a microlens (C-lens) as a collimating lens, and the second connector may use a lens array as a focusing lens, etc. This application does not make any specific limitations in this regard.

[0132] Optionally, the position where the imaging planes of the collimating lens and the focusing lens coincide is a reference plane, which is used to determine the design of the lens in the first connector and the lens in the second connector.

[0133] Optionally, a C-type sleeve can also be configured in the adapter, and the C-type sleeve is configured on the side of the flange limiter near the glass capillary.

[0134] The C-type sleeve is used to align the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector and the multi-core optical fiber in the second connector.

[0135] In this implementation, the C-type sleeve and flange limiter are used independently to achieve the alignment of multi-core optical fibers and the determination of the reference plane, making it easier to connect multi-core optical fibers of different designs. By decoupling the alignment of multi-core optical fibers and the determination of the reference plane, the problem of excessive force on the flange limiter, which would lead to complex assembly, is avoided.

[0136] Optionally, the first connector and the second connector need to meet the following requirements:

[0137]

[0138] Wherein, ΔL1 is the core pitch of the multi-core fiber in the first connector, ω1 is the mode area of ​​the multi-core fiber in the first connector, f1 is the focal length of the collimating lens, ΔL2 is the core pitch of the multi-core fiber in the second connector, ω2 is the mode area of ​​the multi-core fiber in the second connector, and f2 is the focal length of the focusing lens. , , It is a positive number.

[0139] Optionally, when the collimating lens is a microlens and the focusing lens is a lens array, the first connector and the second connector also need to satisfy the following:

[0140]

[0141] in, Let L be the divergence half-angle of the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector, and L be the distance between the lens array and the reference plane.

[0142] In this implementation, a single lens combined with a lens array structure is used, with the imaging point positions of the two sets of lenses as the reference plane, to achieve the docking of multi-core optical fibers with different designs.

[0143] In summary, the embodiments of this application utilize spatial optical coupling to achieve non-physical contact multi-core fiber optic connector docking. By employing dual-lens structures, single-lens combined with array lens structures, etc., and using the imaging points of the two lenses as reference planes, flexible docking between multi-core fibers is achieved, eliminating fiber deformation caused by stress during docking and reducing the risk of fiber burn-out, thereby ensuring the stability of transmission performance.

[0144] Figure 5 This is another schematic diagram of a non-physical contact multi-core fiber optic connection device 500 applicable to this application. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the multi-core fiber optic connection device includes: connector 1, connector 2 (within the dashed box), and connection adapter 1. Both connector 1 and connector 2 use microlenses (C-lens) as collimating and focusing lenses, respectively.

[0145] Alternatively, the lenses in connector 1 and connector 2 may also be self-focusing lenses (G-lens), and this application does not specifically limit this.

[0146] It should be noted that in this implementation, the selection principle for the collimating lens and the focusing lens satisfies the following: taking the dotted line in the figure as the design reference plane, the light spot on the left side after passing through the reference plane of lens 1 and the light spot on the right side after passing through lens 2 completely overlap the reference plane. That is, this reference plane is the position of the imaging points of the two sets of lenses.

[0147] For example, connector 1 has a lens focal length of f1, a fiber core spacing of ΔL1, and a modal area of ​​ω1. Similarly, connector 2 has a lens focal length of f2, a fiber core spacing of ΔL2, and a modal area of ​​ω2. Both must satisfy:

[0148]

[0149] The specific implementation steps for connector 1 and connector 2 are as follows:

[0150] For example, a multi-core optical fiber 1 is encapsulated in a glass capillary. Next, a collimating lens C-lens is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary. Then, the glass capillary containing the collimating lens is encapsulated in a ceramic sleeve. Finally, a flange device is added to the end of the ceramic sleeve.

[0151] Similarly, the multi-core optical fiber 2 is encapsulated in a glass capillary. Next, a focusing lens C-lens is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary. Then, the glass capillary containing the focusing lens is encapsulated in a ceramic sleeve. Finally, a flange device is added to the end of the ceramic sleeve.

[0152] For example, the adapter 1 of the connector is implemented with the following steps:

[0153] Simply add a flange limiter device to adapter 1 of the multi-core fiber optic connector. Other devices are the same as the current connector and adapter in terms of specific structure and packaging, and will not be described in detail here.

[0154] For example, when two encapsulated multi-core fiber optic connectors (e.g., connector 1 and connector 2) are inserted into an adapter (e.g., adapter 1), the position and angle of the encapsulated fibers are completely fixed by the spring device in the connector and the flange limiter device in the adapter. At this time, the light incident from the left multi-core fiber is collimated into parallel light by the collimating lens and transmitted in the space of adapter 1. When it is incident on the focusing lens at the end of the right fiber, it is focused into the right multi-core fiber.

[0155] This implementation employs a dual-lens structure, using the positions of the two lens imaging points as a reference plane to connect different multi-core optical fibers. The optical path of the multi-core fiber optic connector can be designed to achieve fiber splicing with different designs. The use of a spatial optical path non-contact multi-core fiber optic connector enables beam expansion, eliminates fiber parallelism caused by stress during splicing, and reduces the risk of fiber burnout.

[0156] Figure 6 This is another schematic diagram of a non-physical contact multi-core fiber optic connection device 600 applicable to this application. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the multi-core fiber optic connection device includes: connector 1, connector 2 (within the dashed box), and connection adapter 1. Connector 1 uses a microlens (C-lens) as a collimating lens, and connector 2 uses a lens array as a focusing lens.

[0157] Optionally, the lens in connector 1 and the lens array in connector 2 may also be self-focusing lenses (G-lens), and this application does not specifically limit this.

[0158] It should be noted that in this implementation, the selection principle for the collimating lens and the focusing lens satisfies the following: taking the dotted line in the figure as the reference plane, the light spot on the left side after passing through the reference plane of lens 1 and the light spot on the right side after passing through lens 2 completely overlap the reference plane. That is, this reference plane is the position of the imaging points of the two sets of lenses.

[0159] For example, connector 1 has a lens focal length of f1, a fiber core spacing of ΔL1, and a modal area of ​​ω1. Similarly, connector 2 has a lens focal length of f2, a fiber core spacing of ΔL2, and a modal area of ​​ω2. Both must satisfy:

[0160]

[0161] in, L is the divergence half-angle of the multi-core optical fiber of the first connector, and L is the distance between the lens array and the reference plane.

[0162] For example, the specific implementation steps of connector 1 and connector 2 are as follows:

[0163] First, the multi-core optical fiber 1 is encapsulated in a glass capillary. Second, a collimating lens C-lens is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary. Then, the glass capillary containing the collimating lens is encapsulated in a ceramic sleeve. Finally, a flange device is added to the end of the ceramic sleeve.

[0164] Similarly, the multi-core optical fiber 2 is encapsulated in a glass capillary. Next, a focusing lens array is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary. Then, the glass capillary containing the focusing lens is encapsulated in a ceramic sleeve. Finally, a flange device is added to the end of the ceramic sleeve.

[0165] For example, the adapter 1 of the connector is implemented with the following steps:

[0166] Simply add a flange limiter device to adapter 1 of the multi-core fiber optic connector. The other devices are the same in structure and packaging as the existing connectors and adapters, and will not be described in detail here.

[0167] For example, when two encapsulated multi-core fiber optic connectors (e.g., connector 1 and connector 2) are inserted into an adapter (e.g., adapter 1), the position and angle of the encapsulated fibers are completely fixed by the spring device in the connector and the flange limiter device in the adapter. At this time, the light incident from the left multi-core fiber is collimated into parallel light by the collimating lens and transmitted in the space of adapter 1. When it is incident on the focusing lens at the end of the right fiber, it is focused into the right multi-core fiber.

[0168] This implementation uses a single lens combined with a lens array structure, with the positions of the imaging points of the two sets of lenses serving as the reference plane to connect different multi-core optical fibers. This method not only enables connections between different multi-core optical fibers, reducing the risk of fiber burn-out, but also avoids interference between beams from different fiber cores.

[0169] Figure 7 This is another schematic diagram of a non-physical contact multi-core fiber optic connection device 700 applicable to this application. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the multi-core fiber optic connection device includes: connector 1, connector 2 (within the dashed box), and connection adapter 1. Connector 1 uses a microlens (C-lens) as a collimating lens, and connector 2 uses a lens array as a focusing lens.

[0170] Optionally, the lens in connector 1 and the lens array in connector 2 may also be self-focusing lenses (G-lens), and this application does not specifically limit this.

[0171] It should be noted that in this implementation, the selection principle for the collimating lens and the focusing lens satisfies the following: taking the dotted line in the figure as the reference plane, the light spot on the left side after passing through the reference plane of lens 1 and the light spot on the right side after passing through lens 2 completely overlap the reference plane. That is, this reference plane is the position of the imaging points of the two sets of lenses.

[0172] For example, connector 1 has a lens focal length of f1, a fiber core spacing of ΔL1, and a modal area of ​​ω1. Similarly, connector 2 has a lens focal length of f2, a fiber core spacing of ΔL2, and a modal area of ​​ω2. Both must satisfy:

[0173]

[0174] in, L is the divergence half-angle of the multi-core optical fiber of the first connector, and L is the distance between the lens array and the reference plane.

[0175] For example, the specific implementation steps of connector 1 and connector 2 are as follows:

[0176] First, the multi-core optical fiber 1 is encapsulated in a glass capillary. Second, a collimating lens C-lens is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary. Then, the glass capillary containing the collimating lens is encapsulated in a ceramic sleeve. Finally, a flange device is added to the end of the ceramic sleeve.

[0177] Similarly, the multi-core optical fiber 2 is encapsulated in a glass capillary. Next, a focusing lens array is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary. Then, the glass capillary containing the focusing lens is encapsulated in a ceramic sleeve. Finally, a flange device is added to the end of the ceramic sleeve.

[0178] For example, the adapter 1 of the connector is implemented with the following steps:

[0179] Add a C-tube to adapter 1 of the multi-core fiber optic connector to assist in aligning the multi-core fibers on the left and right sides, and then install a flange limiter device on the outside of the C-tube. The other devices are the same as the existing connectors and adapters in terms of specific structure and packaging, and will not be described in detail here.

[0180] For example, when two encapsulated multi-core fiber optic connectors (e.g., connector 1 and connector 2) are inserted into an adapter (e.g., adapter 1), the position and angle of the encapsulated fibers are completely fixed by the spring device in the connector and the flange limiter device in the adapter. At this time, the light incident from the left multi-core fiber is collimated into parallel light by the collimating lens and transmitted in the space of adapter 1. When it is incident on the focusing lens at the end of the right fiber, it is focused into the right multi-core fiber.

[0181] This implementation employs a single-lens combined with a lens array structure, using the positions of the imaging points of the two sets of lenses as the reference plane to connect different multi-core optical fibers. Simultaneously, the independent use of C-tube sleeves and flange limiters decouples the alignment of the multi-core optical fibers and the determination of the reference plane, avoiding excessive force on the flange limiter and thus preventing assembly complexity. This facilitates the connection of multi-core optical fibers with different designs. This implementation not only enables connections between different multi-core optical fibers, reducing the risk of fiber burn-out, but also avoids interference between beams from different fiber cores.

[0182] It should be noted that the above-described implementation methods can be used independently or in combination. Furthermore, the above implementation methods are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on the technical solution of this application.

[0183] Examples include non-contact multi-core fiber optic connectors using different lens combinations for spatial optical paths. In a dual-lens structure, these can be collimating lenses and collimating lenses, focusing lenses and focusing lenses, or collimating lenses and focusing lenses. In a single-lens combined with a lens array structure, these can be collimating lenses and focusing lens arrays, collimating lens arrays and focusing lenses, collimating lenses and collimating lens arrays, focusing lenses and focusing lens arrays, etc., and this application does not specifically limit these possibilities.

[0184] For example, in the dual-lens structure, a C-tube can be added to the adapter of the fiber optic connector to assist in aligning the multi-core fibers on the left and right sides, and a flange limiter device can be set on the outside of the C-tube to assist in determining the position of the reference plane. This application does not make specific limitations on this.

[0185] It should be understood that the technical solution of this application can also be applied to structures such as fan-in / fan-out and fiber pitch conversion of different transmission fibers in optical transmission.

[0186] In summary, the embodiments of this application utilize spatial optical coupling to realize a non-physical contact multi-core fiber optic connector. It adopts a dual-lens structure and a single-lens combined with an array lens structure, using the imaging point positions of the two (groups) of lenses as a reference plane to achieve flexible docking between multi-core fibers, reduce the risk of fiber burn-out, and thus ensure the stability of transmission performance.

[0187] Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of a multi-core optical fiber communication system 800 applicable to embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 8 As shown, in an optical fiber communication network, this system includes an optical transmitter, an optical receiver, and one or more multi-core optical fiber connectors. The optical transmitter and receiver are connected via line optical fibers, and the multi-core optical fiber connectors are primarily located in the middle of the optical fiber line (or line optical fiber) in the optical fiber communication network, enabling non-contact transmission of multi-core optical fibers.

[0188] For example, at the transmitting end, the information to be transmitted first needs to be converted into an electrical signal, then modulated onto a laser beam emitted by a laser, so that the intensity of the light changes with the amplitude (frequency) of the electrical signal, and is then transmitted through a multi-core optical fiber. At the receiving end, the detector receives the optical signal, converts it back into an electrical signal, and recovers the original information after demodulation. That is, the optical signal is transmitted from the optical transmitter through the optical fiber and the multi-core optical fiber connector to the optical receiver.

[0189] It should be noted that the above Figure 8 This application is not limited to this example only. For instance, a multi-core fiber optic communication system may include even more optical devices.

[0190] It should be understood that the specific examples in the embodiments of this application are only to help those skilled in the art better understand the technical solutions of this application, and the above specific implementation methods can be considered as the optimal implementation methods of this application, rather than limiting the scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0191] It should be noted that the actions or methods executed by the controller can be implemented wholly or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any other combination. When implemented using software, the actions or methods executed by the controller can be implemented wholly or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions or computer programs. When the computer instructions or computer programs are loaded or executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated wholly or partially. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that includes one or more sets of available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium, where the semiconductor medium can be a solid-state drive.

[0192] Optionally, the memory and processor in the above-described device embodiments can be physically independent units, or the memory can be integrated with the processor. This application does not limit this.

[0193] The processor in this application embodiment can be an integrated circuit chip with the ability to process signals. In implementation, each step of the above method embodiment can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by instructions in software form. The processor can be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the method disclosed in this application embodiment can be directly implemented by a hardware encoding processor, or by a combination of hardware and software modules in the encoding processor. The software modules can reside in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. This storage medium is located in memory; the processor reads information from the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method.

[0194] The memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDRSDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DRRAM). It should be noted that the memory used in the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0195] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0196] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0197] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0198] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0199] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. If the functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0200] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A multi-core optical fiber connection device, characterized in that, The multi-core optical fiber connection device includes: A first connector, a second connector, and an adapter, wherein the first connector and the second connector are respectively located on both sides of the adapter; The first connector and the second connector respectively include a glass capillary, a multi-core optical fiber, a ceramic sleeve, a flange, and a lens. The multi-core optical fiber is encapsulated in the glass capillary, and the lens is encapsulated at the end of the glass capillary away from the flange. The glass capillary is disposed in the ceramic sleeve, and the flange is disposed at the end of the ceramic sleeve away from the lens. The adapter includes a flange limiter for determining the position of a reference plane, which is the overlapping position of the imaging planes of the lens in the first connector and the lens in the second connector. The lens in the first connector is a collimating lens, and the lens in the second connector is a focusing lens. The ratio of the fiber pitch of the multi-core fiber in the first connector to the focal length of the collimating lens is equal to the ratio of the fiber pitch of the multi-core fiber in the second connector to the focal length of the focusing lens. The ratio of the modal area of ​​the multi-core fiber in the first connector to the focal length of the collimating lens is equal to the ratio of the modal area of ​​the multi-core fiber in the second connector to the focal length of the focusing lens.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first connector and the second connector also include springs, which are positioned at the end of the glass capillary near the flange.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The collimating lens and the focusing lens each comprise a microlens or a lens array.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The position where the imaging surfaces of the collimating lens and the focusing lens coincide is the reference plane.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The adapter also includes a C-type sleeve, which is positioned on the side of the flange limiter near the glass capillary.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first connector and the second connector satisfy the following: Wherein, ΔL1 is the core pitch of the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector, ω1 is the mode area of ​​the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector, f1 is the focal length of the collimating lens, ΔL2 is the core pitch of the multi-core optical fiber in the second connector, ω2 is the mode area of ​​the multi-core optical fiber in the second connector, and f2 is the focal length of the focusing lens. , , It is a positive number.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the collimating lens is a microlens and the focusing lens is a lens array, the first connector and the second connector also satisfy the following: in, Let L be the divergence half-angle of the multi-core optical fiber in the first connector, and L be the distance between the lens array and the reference plane.

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