Optical fiber laser device and optical fiber module for optical fiber laser device

Abstract

A fiber laser device includes: a housing; a first optical element having a first optical fiber and a first fiber optic connector disposed at the end of the first optical fiber for laser oscillation; and a second optical element having a second optical fiber and a second fiber optic connector disposed at the end of the second optical fiber for laser oscillation. The first optical element and the second optical element are optically connected via the first fiber optic connector and the second fiber optic connector. At least a portion of the first optical element is housed within the housing. An opening is formed in the wall of the housing, and the housing is detachably mounted within the housing via the opening. At one end of the housing, the end of the first optical fiber and the first fiber optic connector are disposed in a manner that protrudes from the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to fiber laser devices and fiber optic modules for fiber laser devices. Background Technology

[0002] Regarding fiber laser devices, there are known devices comprising an optical fiber structure (first optical element) including a saturable absorber and a wavelength division multiplexing coupler (second optical element) (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In such a fiber laser device, a first optical fiber connector is provided at the end of a first optical fiber optically connected to the optical fiber structure, and a second optical fiber connector is provided at the end of a second optical fiber optically connected to the wavelength division multiplexing coupler. The optical fiber structure and the wavelength division multiplexing coupler are optically connected via the first and second optical fiber connectors.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-67804 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In fiber laser devices like those described above, a first optical element and a second optical element that are optically connected to each other are typically housed within a housing. When the first and second optical elements are housed in such a housing, for example, if the first optical element needs to be removed and replaced when it reaches the end of its product life, it may be difficult to perform the replacement.

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a fiber laser device and a fiber laser module for a fiber laser device that allow for easy replacement of the first optical element.

[0009] Technical means to solve the problem

[0010] A fiber laser device according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a housing; a first optical element housed within the housing, having a first optical fiber and a first optical fiber connector disposed at the end of the first optical fiber for laser oscillation; and a second optical element housed within the housing, having a second optical fiber and a second optical fiber connector disposed at the end of the second optical fiber for laser oscillation, wherein the first optical element and the second optical element are optically connected via the first optical fiber connector and the second optical fiber connector, at least a portion of the first optical element is housed within a module housing, an opening is formed in the wall of the housing, the module housing is detachably mounted within the housing via the opening, and at one end of the module housing, the end of the first optical fiber and the first optical fiber connector are disposed in a manner protruding from the module housing.

[0011] In this fiber laser device, the first optical element can be modularized, and the modular first optical element can be assembled and disassembled using the second opening of the housing. Therefore, the first optical element can be easily replaced.

[0012] In one aspect of the fiber laser device of the present invention, the first optical element may also include a saturable absorber, an excitation source, or a wavelength division multiplexing coupler. In this case, the saturable absorber, the excitation source, or the wavelength division multiplexing coupler can be used as the first optical element.

[0013] One aspect of the fiber laser device of the present invention may further include a gripping portion disposed on the module housing, the gripping portion being disposed such that it protrudes from the outer surface of the housing when the module housing is installed inside the housing, and a protrusion covering at least a portion of the periphery of the protruding gripping portion is provided on the outer surface of the housing. When the gripping portion is used (e.g., gripped and manipulated) while the module housing is installed inside the housing, there is a possibility of misalignment of the module housing. In this regard, in one aspect of the present invention, when the module housing is installed inside the housing, the gripping portion is difficult to grip due to the protrusion, and the use of the gripping portion can be suppressed. Thus, misalignment of the module housing can be prevented.

[0014] In one aspect of the fiber laser device of the present invention, the module housing may be inserted into the opening from one end side, and the module housing has a shape that is different on one side and the other side in a first direction when viewed from one end side, and the opening corresponds to this shape of the module housing. This prevents the module housing from being inserted into the second opening with one side of its first direction reversed.

[0015] One aspect of the fiber laser device of the present invention may also include a partition plate dividing the housing into a first space and a second space, and a fan for pressurizing air in the first space, with the first optical element and the second optical element disposed in the second space. In this case, it is possible to prevent dust or the like from adhering to the structures of the first and second optical elements due to the air pressurized by the fan.

[0016] In one aspect of the fiber laser device of the present invention, an elastic member may also be included to press the module housing toward the mounting surface of the mounting module housing. In this case, the elastic member can be used to press the module housing relative to the mounting surface.

[0017] One aspect of the fiber laser device of the present invention may further include a connector for connecting the first fiber optic connector and the second fiber optic connector, and a connector detection unit for detecting the presence or absence of the connector. In this case, the first fiber optic connector and the second fiber optic connector can be reliably connected by the connector. Furthermore, the connector can be prevented from being forgotten to be installed based on the detection result of the connector detection unit.

[0018] The fiber laser device of one aspect of the present invention may also include a locking mechanism that prevents the module housing from being disassembled from the housing when the laser is oscillating using the fiber laser device. By providing the locking mechanism, damage caused by the removal of the first optical element during laser oscillation can be prevented.

[0019] An optical fiber module for an optical fiber laser device according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a module housing; and an optical element for laser oscillation, at least a portion of which is housed within the module housing, having an optical fiber and an optical fiber connector disposed at the end of the optical fiber, wherein at one end of the module housing, the end of the optical fiber and the optical fiber connector are disposed in a manner that protrudes from the module housing, and the optical fiber is fixed within the module housing at the other end of the module housing.

[0020] In fiber optic modules for fiber laser devices, when optical elements are optically connected to other optical elements via fiber optic connectors, there is a possibility that the fiber optic connector may move due to play, and the end of the optical fiber may also move accordingly, adversely affecting performance. In one aspect of the present invention, since the optical fiber is fixed within the module housing, movement of the optical fiber can be suppressed. However, when the optical fiber is fixed at one end within the module housing (the side closest to the fiber optic connector), there is a possibility that the optical fiber may bend easily due to movement of the fiber optic connector and the end of the optical fiber, adversely affecting performance. Regarding this, in one aspect of the present invention, since the optical fiber is fixed at the other end within the module housing (the side furthest from the fiber optic connector), bending of the optical fiber due to movement of the fiber optic connector and the end of the optical fiber can be suppressed. Therefore, according to one aspect of the present invention, adverse effects on performance can be suppressed.

[0021] In one aspect of the fiber optic laser device fiber module of the present invention, the straight portion of the fiber, i.e., the straight part, may be fixed at one end within the module housing. In this case, bending of the fiber can be further suppressed.

[0022] The effects of the invention

[0023] According to the present invention, a fiber laser device and a fiber laser module for a fiber laser device are provided that allow for easy replacement of the first optical element. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the supercontinuum light source of the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of the main components of a supercontinuum light source.

[0026] Figure 3 It means Figure 2 A simplified structural diagram showing the state of the fiber optic laser device after the fiber optic module has been removed.

[0027] Figure 4 It means Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of a supercontinuum light source.

[0028] Figure 5 It means Figure 1 The back view of the supercontinuum light source.

[0029] Figure 6 Is Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram of a supercontinuous light source, omitting the shell.

[0030] Figure 7 It means Figure 2 An exploded stereoscopic view of the main components of a supercontinuum light source.

[0031] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Exploded perspective view of the swinging component in the movable retainer.

[0032] Figure 9 It means Figure 2 A cross-sectional view inside the housing of a fiber optic module for a fiber laser device.

[0033] Figure 10 It means Figure 3 A three-dimensional diagram of a supercontinuum light source in a certain state.

[0034] Figure 11 Is Figure 10 A three-dimensional diagram of a supercontinuous light source, omitting the shell.

[0035] Figure 12 It is an enlarged representation Figure 10 A three-dimensional view of the second opening of the supercontinuous light source.

[0036] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 A three-dimensional view of the state in which the second fiber optic connector is oriented in the second orientation by means of a movable retainer in a supercontinuous light source.

[0037] Figure 14 yes Figure 10 Another perspective view of the state in which the second fiber optic connector is oriented in the second orientation by means of a movable retainer in a supercontinuous light source.

[0038] Figure 15 It means in Figure 13 A stereoscopic view of observation using a fiber optic microscope in a supercontinuum light source.

[0039] Figure 16 It means in Figure 13 A three-dimensional diagram showing the cleaning process performed by a cleaner in a supercontinuum light source.

[0040] Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing a modified example of a movable retainer and a coupling detection part.

[0041] Figure 18 This is another perspective view showing the movable retainer and coupling detection part of the modified example.

[0042] Figure 19 This is another perspective view showing the movable retainer and coupling detection part of the modified example.

[0043] Figure 20 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the main parts of the supercontinuum light source in the second embodiment.

[0044] Figure 21 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the main parts of the supercontinuum light source in the third embodiment.

[0045] Figure 22 This is a perspective view showing the supercontinuum light source of the fourth embodiment.

[0046] Figure 23 It means Figure 22 A 3D view showing the state of the fiber laser device after the fiber optic module has been removed.

[0047] Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional view inside the housing of a fiber optic module for a modified fiber laser device. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or equivalent elements will be labeled with the same symbols, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0049] [First Implementation]

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown, the supercontinuum light source 10 is a light source for generating supercontinuum light. The supercontinuum light source 10 constitutes a fiber laser device. The supercontinuum light source 10 is a broadband spectral light source, for example, used for biological observation and spectroscopic analysis. The supercontinuum light source 10 includes a laser oscillator 5, a fiber amplifier 20, a wavelength-shifting fiber 30, and a highly nonlinear fiber 50.

[0051] Laser oscillator 5 is a ring-type laser oscillator. The output of laser oscillator 5 is connected to fiber amplifier 20. The output of fiber amplifier 20 is connected to wavelength-shifting fiber 30. The output of wavelength-shifting fiber 30 is connected to highly nonlinear fiber 50. Highly nonlinear fiber 50 is a highly nonlinear fiber for generating supercontinuum light. Highly nonlinear fiber 50 utilizes nonlinear optical effects to extend the spectral width of the input pulsed light, converting it into supercontinuum light. Supercontinuum light is output from the output of highly nonlinear fiber 50.

[0052] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, such a supercontinuum light source 10 includes an excitation source 11, a wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12, an amplification fiber 13, an output coupler 14, a fiber optic structure 15, and a housing 16. The excitation source 11, wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12, amplification fiber 13, output coupler 14, and fiber optic structure 15 are housed within the housing 16. The excitation source 11, wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12, amplification fiber 13, output coupler 14, and fiber optic structure 15 constitute the optical elements for laser oscillation, forming a laser oscillator 5.

[0053] The excitation source 11 is, for example, a laser diode. The excitation source 11 outputs excitation light. The excitation source 11 has an optical fiber 21. The wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 has optical fibers 22 and 29. The wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 reflects the excitation light input from the excitation source 11 via optical fiber 21 and outputs it to optical fiber 22. The wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 allows laser light input from optical fiber 28 of the optical fiber structure 15 via optical fiber 29 to pass through and output to optical fiber 22. Optical fiber 29 constitutes a second optical fiber.

[0054] Amplifying fiber 13 absorbs the excitation light input via fiber 22 and emits laser light. Amplifying fiber 13 is, for example, an erbium-doped fiber (EDF) with erbium (Er) added to its core. Output coupler 14 includes fibers 23, 24, and 26. Output coupler 14 splits the laser light input via fiber 23 from amplifying fiber 13 at a predetermined ratio, outputting a portion of the laser light to fiber 26 and the other portion to fiber 24. The laser light output to fiber 24 is emitted externally as output light. Fiber 26 constitutes a second fiber.

[0055] The optical fiber structure 15 is a structure having a saturable absorber K. The saturable absorber K is a material whose optical transparency varies depending on the intensity of the incident light. The saturable absorber K comprises a sheet-like resin material and multiple carbon nanotubes dispersed within the resin material. A material with excellent heat resistance is used as the resin material. The carbon nanotubes exhibit saturable absorption characteristics, absorbing light in the 1560 nm wavelength band, with this absorption decreasing as the incident light intensity reaches a high level. The optical fiber structure 15 has optical fibers 27 and 28. Optical fibers 27 and 28 constitute a first optical fiber. Within the optical fiber structure 15, the front ends of optical fibers 27 and 28 are mated together, and the saturable absorber K is disposed between the front ends of these optical fibers 27 and 28. In the optical fiber structure 15, laser light input from optical fiber 26 of the output coupler 14 via optical fiber 27 is incident on the saturable absorber K.

[0056] In the linear region where the incident light intensity is weak, the saturable absorber K absorbs the incident light. When the incident light intensity reaches a high level, the absorption of the saturable absorber K decreases, and the incident light passes through the saturable absorber K. The amplitude of the oscillating laser varies at a high frequency over time due to noise components, so light with a high incident light intensity is not absorbed by the saturable absorber K and passes through, becoming pulsed light. In the supercontinuum light source 10, the pulsed light is superimposed on the circulating continuous light, promoting induced emission and increasing its intensity, making it easier to pass through the saturable absorber K. During the period when the pulsed light grows and circulates, pulsed light is generated due to the saturable absorption characteristics of the saturable absorber K, fiber nonlinearity effects, and wavelength dispersion effects. The fiber structure 15 outputs the laser light, which is pulsed light and passes through the saturable absorber K, to the fiber 29 via fiber 28.

[0057] In this embodiment, the optical fiber structure 15 has a first optical fiber connector 31A disposed at the end of the optical fiber 27 and a first optical fiber connector 31B disposed at the end of the optical fiber 28. The wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 has a second optical fiber connector 32B disposed at the end of the optical fiber 29. The output coupler 14 has a second optical fiber connector 32A disposed at the end of the optical fiber 26. The first optical fiber connector 31A and the second optical fiber connector 32A can be connected via a connector 79. The first optical fiber connector 31B and the second optical fiber connector 32B can be connected via a connector 79.

[0058] That is, the fiber optic structure 15 constituting the first optical element and the output coupler 14 constituting the second optical element can be optically connected via the first fiber optic connector 31A and the second fiber optic connector 32A. Thus, the fiber optic cable 27 connected to the fiber optic structure 15 and the fiber optic cable 26 connected to the output coupler 14 can be optically connected. Furthermore, the fiber optic structure 15 constituting the first optical element and the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 constituting the second optical element can be optically connected via the first fiber optic connector 31B and the second fiber optic connector 32B. Thus, the fiber optic cable 28 connected to the fiber optic structure 15 and the fiber optic cable 29 connected to the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 can be optically connected.

[0059] The fiber optic structure 15 is housed within the module housing 61, forming a modular fiber optic module 60 for the fiber laser device. The fiber optic module 60 (module housing 61) for the fiber laser device is detachably assembled relative to the hypercontinuum light source 10. Furthermore, "module" refers, for example, to one or more elements (components and devices) that are functionally or structurally integrated.

[0060] Next, the structure of the supercontinuum light source 10 will be described in detail.

[0061] In the following explanation, "front-back direction" ("front" and "back") is a provisional use of the direction based on the illustration. "Up-down direction" ("above" and "below") is a direction orthogonal to the front-back direction and is a provisional use of the direction based on the illustration. The direction perpendicular to both the front-back and up-down directions is called the "width direction".

[0062] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in the supercontinuum light source 10, the housing 16 is a rectangular box-shaped structure that is elongated in the front-to-back direction. A bracket BR for mounting the supercontinuum light source 10 is fixed to the lower part of the side wall of the housing 16. A first opening 71 is formed in the upper wall 16a of the housing 16. The upper wall 16a is the wall in the housing 16 that is opposite to and adjacent to the movable retainer 76 described below. The first opening 71 is formed at a position slightly rearward from the center in the front-to-back direction of the upper wall 16a of the housing 16. The first opening 71 extends vertically through the housing 16, connecting the inside and outside of the housing 16. The first opening 71 is rectangular. A cover C0 (see reference) is detachably mounted to the first opening 71 to block it. Figure 12 When the supercontinuum light source 10 is in operation (in the case of laser oscillation), the first opening 71 is closed by the cover C0.

[0063] like Figure 10As shown, a second opening 72 is formed on the rear wall (wall portion) 16b of the housing 16. This second opening 72 is formed on the upper side of the rear wall 16b of the housing 16. The second opening 72 extends through the housing 16 in the front-rear direction, connecting the inside and outside of the housing 16. The second opening 72 is rectangular in shape, elongated in the width direction. The second opening 72 forms a mounting port in the housing 16 for inserting the fiber optic module 60 of the fiber laser device.

[0064] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the supercontinuous light source 10 has a first partition plate (partition plate) 73, a second partition plate (support plate) 74, a fan 75, a movable retainer 76, a retaining part 78, and a connector 79 within the housing 16. The first partition plate 73 is a plate-shaped component that divides the housing 16 vertically, and is fixed to the housing 16 by screws or the like. The first partition plate 73 divides the housing 16 into a lower first space R1 and a second space R2 above the first space R1. The second partition plate 74 is a plate-shaped component that divides the second space R2 within the housing 16 vertically, and is fixed to the housing 16 by screws or the like. The second partition plate 74 divides the second space R2 into a lower second space R21 and an upper second space R22 above the lower second space R21. The fan 75 pressurizes the air within the first space R1. The fan 75 is fixed to the rear of the first space R1 within the housing 16. The fan 75 draws in air from the outside through the intake port H0 and compresses it forward. For example, an axial flow fan can be used as the fan 75.

[0065] A movable retainer 76 is disposed within the housing 16. The movable retainer 76 is located on the second partition plate 74 within the housing 16 (within the upper second space R22). Figure 4 and Figure 13 As shown, the movable retainer 76 holds the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B and is movable in such a way that the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B changes between a first orientation and a second orientation. The orientation of the fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B corresponds, for example, to the optical axis direction of the ends of the optical fibers 29 and 26 on which the fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B are disposed. The movable retainer 76 can be manually operated by a user, for example.

[0066] like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the first orientation is the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B when the fiber optic structure 15 is optically connected to the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 and the output coupler 14 (i.e., in the state where the fiber optic module 60 for the fiber laser device is installed). The first orientation is along the second partition plate 74. The first orientation is rearward. Figure 13 and Figure 14As shown, the second orientation is the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B, which expose the end faces of optical fibers 29 and 26 through the first opening 71. The second orientation is perpendicular to the second partition plate 74. The second orientation is upward. Exposed through the first opening 71 means, for example, appearing from the first opening 71; being visually identifiable from the first opening 71; and being exposed or revealed from the first opening 71. When the movable retainer 76 is movable in such a way that the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B becomes the second orientation, the end faces of optical fibers 29 and 26 protrude outward from the first opening 71, so that the end faces of optical fibers 29 and 26 are located outside the housing 16 through the first opening 71.

[0067] like Figure 7 As shown, the movable retainer 76 includes a retainer fixed to the housing 16 (see reference). Figure 4 The second partition plate 74 contains a fixed member 81 and a swing member 82 connected to the fixed member 81 via a hinge 83. The hinge 83 allows one hinge plate side to swing about a swing axis 83x along the width direction, with respect to the other hinge plate side. The hinge 83 here has a minimal (no loosening) structure. The fixed member 81 is a plate-shaped component. The fixed member 81 has its thickness in the vertical direction and extends along the width direction. An elongated hole 81a, which is long in the front-rear direction, is formed in the fixed member 81. The fixed member 81 is fixed to the second partition plate 74 via the elongated hole 81a by screws. That is, the fixed member 81 is movably fixed within the housing 16 in the front-rear direction. One hinge plate side of the hinge 83 is mounted at both ends of the fixed member 81 in the width direction.

[0068] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the swinging component 82 is a component capable of swinging relative to the fixed component 81 about the swing axis 83x of the hinge 83. Second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B are provided on the swinging component 82. Figure 8 As shown, the swing component 82 has a base plate 84, a pair of connector mounting parts 85 and a magnetic plate 86.

[0069] The base plate 84 is a curved plate-shaped component, including a base plate 84x, a side plate 84y, and a top plate 84z. A pair of base plates 84x are provided, and they are flat. One of the hinge plates 83 is mounted on the base plate 84x. The side plate 84y is perpendicular to the base plate 84x. The side plate 84y has dimensions corresponding to the fixing member 81 in the width direction. A pair of rectangular holes 84h are formed separately in the width direction for the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B to be inserted. A pair of slits 84s are formed separately in the width direction for the mounting plate 88 to be inserted. The rectangular holes 84h communicate with the slits 84s. The top plate 84z is perpendicular to the side plate 84y and is flat. A magnetic plate 86 is fixed to the top plate 84z.

[0070] The connector mounting portion 85 includes a main body 87 and a mounting plate 88. The main body 87 has a block-shaped shape. The main body 87 is fixed to the side plate 84y of the base plate 84 by screws. A recess 87x is formed in the main body 87 for the second fiber optic connector 32A to be fitted. The recess 87x communicates with the rectangular hole 84h of the side plate 84y. In addition, a slot 87y is formed in the main body 87 for the fiber optic cable 29 to be inserted. The slot 87y communicates with the recess 87x. The mounting plate 88 is fixed to the main body 87 by screws in a manner that blocks the recess 87x and the slot 87y.

[0071] The magnetic plate 86 is fixed to the upper plate 84z of the base plate 84 by screws. The magnetic plate 86 is formed of a magnetic material. That is, at least a portion of the movable retainer 76 is formed of a magnetic material. The magnetic plate 86 is a component that can be connected to the retaining part 78 by magnetic force. The magnetic plate 86 is a plate that is elongated in the width direction.

[0072] like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the retaining part 78 is disposed within the housing 16. The retaining part 78 is fixed to the second partition plate 74 via the support plate ST. The retaining part 78 is formed of a magnetic material. When the movable retainer 76 is movable with the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B as the second orientation, the retaining part 78 can be connected to the magnetic plate 86 of the movable retainer 76 by magnetic force (see reference). Figure 13 Thus, the movable retainer 76 is held magnetically by the retaining part 78 in a manner that maintains the second orientation.

[0073] A connector 79 is disposed between the first fiber optic connector 31A and the second fiber optic connector 32A. The connector 79 is inserted and engaged with both the first and second fiber optic connectors 31A and 32A, respectively, to optically connect the first and second fiber optic connectors 31A and 32A (i.e., the ends of fiber 27 and 26). Furthermore, a connector 79 is disposed between the first and second fiber optic connectors 31B and 32B. The connector 79 is inserted and engaged with both the first and second fiber optic connectors 31B and 32B, respectively, to optically connect the first and second fiber optic connectors 31B and 32B (i.e., the ends of fiber 28 and 29).

[0074] An optical fiber tube 18 is disposed near the movable retainer 76 within the housing 16. The optical fiber tube 18 is a flexible cylindrical component. The optical fiber tube 18 is fixed to the second partition plate 74 by a tape material 19. Optical fibers 26 and 29 are inserted into the optical fiber tube 18. Thus, the optical fibers 26 and 29 are fixed to the second partition plate 74 near the movable retainer 76 via the optical fiber tube 18. As the tape material 19, for example, polyimide tape can be used.

[0075] like Figure 6 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the supercontinuum light source 10 of this embodiment includes a fiber optic module 60 for a fiber laser device, which is modularly formed by the fiber optic structure 15. The fiber optic module 60 for the fiber laser device includes a module housing 61, the fiber optic structure 15, and a holding part 62.

[0076] The module housing 61 is rectangular box-shaped. The module housing 61 houses the optical fiber structure 15. Here, the optical fiber structure 15 is positioned in the central part of the module housing 61. A connector retaining part 64 is provided at one end of the module housing 61. The connector retaining part 64 retains the first optical fiber connectors 31A and 31B such that the ends of the first optical fibers 27 and 28 protrude outward from the module housing 61. A rectangular plate-shaped back panel 63 is fixed to the rear surface of the module housing 61, and a holding part 62 is provided on the rear surface of the back panel 63. The module housing 61 is detachably mounted in the housing 16 via the second opening 72. The module housing 61 is inserted into the second opening 72 from the front side (one side in a predetermined direction) of the module housing 61.

[0077] Within the module housing 61, optical fibers 27 and 28 are secured at the other end of the module housing 61 (opposite to the side where the ends of the first optical fiber connectors 31A and 31B and optical fibers 27 and 28 protrude from the module housing 61). Specifically, within the module housing 61, the straight portions of optical fibers 27 and 28 are secured at the other end of the module housing 61. Optical fibers 27 and 28 are secured at the portions that contact the inner surface of the module housing 61. The securing of optical fibers 27 and 28 is achieved by attaching a tape material 65. For example, a polyimide tape can be used as the tape material 65. In the illustrated example, multiple mutually separated portions of optical fibers 27 and 28 are attached to the inner surface of the module housing 61 by the tape material 65.

[0078] The grip portion 62 is the part held by the user. The grip portion 62 is provided such that it protrudes from the outer surface of the rear wall 16b of the housing 16 when the module housing 61 is installed inside the housing 16. The grip portion 62 is, for example, a U-shaped component when viewed from above. The grip portion 62 is held by inserting a hand from above. In the illustrated example, the grip portion 62 extends rearward from one end of the back panel 63 in the width direction, bends in the width direction, extends along the width direction, and then bends forward to reach the other end of the back panel 63 in the width direction.

[0079] When installing such a module housing 61 inside the housing 16, for example, by holding the holding part 62, the module housing 61 is inserted through the second opening 72 of the housing 16. The module housing 61 is placed on the upper surface (placement surface) of the second partition plate 74, and while sliding the lower surface of the module housing 61 on the upper surface of the second partition plate 74, the module housing 61 is moved forward so that the back panel 63 abuts against the rear surface of the housing 16. At this time, the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 31B are inserted into the connector 79, and the fiber optic structure 15 is optically connected to the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 via the first fiber optic connector 31A and the second fiber optic connector 32A, and the fiber optic structure 15 is optically connected to the output coupler 14 via the first fiber optic connector 31B and the second fiber optic connector 32B. Then, the back panel 63 is installed onto the housing 16 using screw N. Thus, the installation of the module housing 61 is completed.

[0080] On the other hand, when removing the module housing 61 from the housing 16, remove screw N, hold the holding part 62, and slide the lower surface of the module housing 61 onto the upper surface of the second partition plate 74 while moving the module housing 61 rearward. Remove the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 31B from the connector 79, detaching the optical connection between the fiber optic structure 15 and the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 and the output coupler 14. Then, pull the module housing 61 out through the second opening 72. This completes the disassembly of the module housing 61.

[0081] The module housing 61, viewed from the front-rear direction (a predetermined direction), has a different shape on its upper side (one side of the first direction) and lower side (the other side of the first direction). Specifically, viewed from the front-rear direction, the module housing 61 is designed such that the width dimension of its upper portion is larger than the width dimension of its other portions. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the second opening 72 corresponds to the shape of the module housing 61. The second opening 72 has a different shape on the upper and lower sides when viewed from the front-rear direction. Specifically, when viewed from the front-rear direction, the second opening 72 is configured such that the width dimension of its upper portion is greater than the width dimension of its other portions.

[0082] like Figure 5 and Figure 10 As shown, a rearwardly protruding protrusion 66 is provided on the lower part of the edge of the second opening 72 on the outer surface of the rear wall 16b of the housing 16. The protrusion 66 is plate-shaped with its thickness in the vertical direction. This protrusion 66 covers at least a portion of the area around the gripping portion 62 that protrudes from the outer surface of the rear wall 16b of the housing 16. The protrusion 66 forms an eaves provided below the second opening 72. The protrusion 66 blocks the gripping portion 62 from below, preventing a hand from inserting into the gripping portion 62 from the vertical direction.

[0083] like Figure 6 and Figure 11 As shown, the supercontinuum light source 10 includes a module guide 91 and an elastic member 92. The module guide 91 is a member that guides the module housing 61, which enters the housing 16 through the second opening 72, to move forward and backward. The module guide 91 is fixed to the rear end of the second partition plate 74. The module guide 91 is a door-shaped member that forms a space along the outline of the module housing 61. The module guide 91 is a plate member that is bent in an inverted U-shape when viewed from the rear. The elastic member 92 is, for example, a leaf spring. The elastic member 92 presses the upper surface of the module housing 61, which enters the housing 16 through the second opening 72, downward toward the upper surface of the second partition plate 74. A pair of elastic members 92 are provided separately in the width direction on the front side of the upper part of the module guide 91.

[0084] Next, an example of maintaining (observation and cleaning, etc.) the end faces of optical fibers 26 and 29 in the supercontinuum light source 10 will be described.

[0085] like Figure 13 and Figure 14As shown, with the module housing 61 removed from the housing 16, the movable retainer 76 is made movable, changing the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B from rearward to upward. Specifically, the rear side of the swing member 82 is lifted, causing the swing member 82 to swing 90° relative to the fixed member 81 about the swing axis 83x of the hinge 83. Thus, the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B change from a front-rear orientation to a vertical orientation. The end faces of the optical fibers 29 and 26 protrude outward from the first opening 71, positioning them outside the housing 16 via the first opening 71. Furthermore, the magnetic plate 86 of the swing member 82 is magnetically connected to the retainer 78, maintaining the movable retainer 76 with the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B facing upward.

[0086] Then, as Figure 15 As shown, a fiber optic microscope 95 is set up to observe the end faces of optical fibers 29 and 26, for example, to confirm that there are no foreign objects or contaminants on the end faces of optical fibers 29 and 26. Furthermore, as... Figure 16 As shown, the end faces of optical fibers 29 and 26 are cleaned using cleaner 96.

[0087] After observing and cleaning the end faces of optical fibers 29 and 26, the movable retainer 76 is made movable, causing the orientation of the second optical fiber connectors 32A and 32B to change from top to rear. Specifically, the connection between the magnetic plate 86 and the retainer 78 caused by magnetic force is released, causing the rear side of the swing member 82 to tilt backward, and causing the swing member 82 to swing 90° relative to the fixed member 81 about the swing axis 83x of the hinge 83. Thus, the second optical fiber connectors 32A and 32B change from a vertically upright state to a front-back direction. The module housing 61 is installed into the housing 16, and the optical fiber structure 15 is optically connected to the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 and the output coupler 14 via the first optical fiber connectors 31A and 31B and the second optical fiber connectors 32A and 32B. Thus, maintenance is completed.

[0088] In the supercontinuum light source 10 of this embodiment, by making the movable retainer 76 movable, the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B can be changed from a first orientation to a second orientation, allowing the end faces of the fibers 29 and 26 to be exposed through the first opening 71. This makes it easy, for example, to observe the end faces of the fibers 29 and 26 using a fiber optic microscope 95, and also easy to clean the end faces of the fibers 29 and 26 using a cleaner 96. Therefore, maintenance of the end faces of the fibers 29 and 26 can be easily performed. Access to the end faces of the fibers 29 and 26 can be made without leading them out. Problems such as wire breakage caused by leading out the fibers 29 and 26 can be avoided.

[0089] In the supercontinuum light source 10, the movable retainer 76 is movable in such a way that the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B varies between a first orientation along the second partition plate 74 and a second orientation perpendicular to the second partition plate 74. In this case, the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B can be switched between the first orientation and the second orientation by moving the movable retainer 76 in such a way that the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B changes by 90°.

[0090] In the supercontinuum light source 10, a first opening 71 is formed in the upper wall 16a of the housing 16, opposite to and adjacent to the movable retainer 76. In this case, the movable retainer 76 can be easily accessed via the first opening 71. In the supercontinuum light source 10, the fiber optic structure 15 constituting the first optical element includes a saturable absorber K. In this case, the saturable absorber K can be used as the first optical element.

[0091] In the supercontinuum light source 10, the fiber structure 15 containing the saturable absorber K is modularly and detachably installed within the housing 16 as a fiber module 60 for a fiber laser device. In this case, for example, the fiber module 60 for the fiber laser device can be removed for maintenance of the end faces of the fibers 26 and 29.

[0092] In the supercontinuum light source 10, the fiber optic structure 15 is housed within a module housing 61. A second opening 72 is formed on the rear wall 16b of the housing 16. The module housing 61 is detachably mounted within the housing 16 via the second opening 72. This allows the fiber optic structure 15 to be modularized, and the modular fiber optic structure 15 can be assembled and disassembled using the second opening 72 of the housing 16.

[0093] In the supercontinuum light source 10, the module housing 61 is inserted into the second opening 72 from its front side. The module housing 61 has a different shape on its upper and lower sides when viewed from the front-rear direction. The second opening 72 corresponds to this shape of the module housing 61 (a different shape on its upper and lower sides when viewed from the front-rear direction). Therefore, when the module housing 61 is inserted into the second opening 72 upside down, it cannot be inserted into the second opening 72 due to interference between the edges of the module housing 61 and the second opening 72. This prevents the module housing 61 from being inserted into the second opening 72 upside down. The vertical orientation of the module housing 61 during installation can be specified, preventing damage to the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 31B, the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B, and the connector 79 caused by incorrect vertical orientation during installation.

[0094] The supercontinuum light source 10 includes an elastic member 92 that presses the module housing 61 toward the upper surface of the second partition plate 74 on which the module housing 61 is mounted. In this case, the elastic member 92 can be used to press the module housing 61 relative to the upper surface of the second partition plate 74.

[0095] The hypercontinuum light source 10 includes a gripping portion 62 disposed on a module housing 61. The gripping portion 62 is provided such that it protrudes from the outer surface of the rear wall 16b of the housing 16 when the module housing 61 is installed inside the housing 16. A protrusion 66 is provided on the outer surface of the rear wall 16b of the housing 16, covering the lower part of the protruding gripping portion 62. When the gripping portion 62 is used (e.g., gripped and manipulated) while the module housing 61 is installed inside the housing 16, there is a possibility of misalignment of the module housing 61. As a result, there is also a risk of changes in the characteristics of the hypercontinuum light source 10 and malfunctions. In this regard, in the hypercontinuum light source 10, when the module housing 61 is installed inside the housing 16, the gripping portion 62 is difficult to grip due to the protrusion 66, thus suppressing the use of the gripping portion 62. Therefore, misalignment of the module housing 61 can be prevented.

[0096] In the supercontinuum light source 10, when the movable retainer 76 is movable with the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B becoming the second orientation, the end faces of the fibers 26 and 29 are located outside the housing 16 through the first opening 71. In this case, maintenance of the end faces of the fibers 26 and 29 can be performed more easily.

[0097] In the supercontinuum light source 10, the movable retainer 76 includes a magnetic plate 86 formed of a magnetic material. A retaining portion 78 formed of a magnetic material is provided inside the housing 16. When the movable retainer 76 is movable with the orientation of the fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B becoming a second orientation, the movable retainer 76 is held in place by the magnetic force of the retaining portion 78 to maintain this second orientation. In this case, the end faces of the optical fibers 26 and 29 can be maintained exposed through the first opening 71 using magnetic force.

[0098] The supercontinuum light source 10 includes an optical fiber tube 18 fixed near a movable retainer 76 within a housing 16, through which optical fibers 26 and 29 are inserted. When optical fibers 26 and 29 are directly fixed near the movable retainer 76, although vibration of optical fibers 26 and 29 can be suppressed, the movable retainer 76 allows for significant movement of optical fibers 26 and 29, potentially causing bending of optical fibers 26 and 29 and adversely affecting performance (e.g., the risk of affecting mode lock). In this regard, in the supercontinuum light source 10, since optical fibers 26 and 29 are fixed near the movable retainer 76 via the optical fiber tube 18, vibration of optical fibers 26 and 29 can be suppressed, and even when optical fibers 26 and 29 move with the movable retainer 76, such movement is allowed, and bending of optical fibers 26 and 29 can be suppressed.

[0099] In the supercontinuum light source 10, the movable retainer 76 is located via an elongated aperture 81a (see reference). Figure 7 The movable retainer 76 is fixed to the second partition plate 74 and is movably fixed within the housing 16 in the front-back direction. This allows for adjustment of the position of the movable retainer 76 in the front-back direction. Alternatively, or based on this, the movable retainer 76 may be movably fixed in a direction other than the front-back direction, in which case adjustment of the position of the movable retainer 76 in a direction other than the front-back direction is possible.

[0100] The supercontinuum light source 10 includes a first partition plate 73 dividing the interior of a housing 16 into a first space R1 and a second space R2, and a fan 75 for pressurizing the air in the first space R1. An optical fiber structure 15, a wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12, and an output coupler 14 are disposed in the second space R2. In this configuration, it is possible to prevent dust and other contaminants from adhering to the structures of the optical fiber structure 15, the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12, and the output coupler 14 (e.g., the end faces of optical fibers 26, 29, etc.) due to the air pressurized by the fan 75. A separation structure is provided to separate the portions of the structures of the optical fiber structure 15, the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12, and the output coupler 14 from the air-cooled portion caused by the fan 75.

[0101] The supercontinuum light source 10 includes a connector 79 that connects the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 31B to the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B. In this case, the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 31B can be reliably connected to the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B via the connector 79.

[0102] Furthermore, in the supercontinuum light source 10 of this embodiment, the fiber optic structure 15 constituting the first optical element can be modularized, and the modular fiber optic structure 15 can be assembled and disassembled using the second opening 72 of the housing 16. Therefore, the fiber optic structure 15 can be easily replaced. The fiber optic structure 15 (saturable absorber K) can be modularized and easily replaced.

[0103] In the supercontinuum light source 10, the fiber structure 15 includes a saturable absorber K. In this case, the saturable absorber K can be used as the first optical element. Since the saturable absorber K needs to be replaced due to its lifespan, the ease of replacement is particularly effective.

[0104] In the fiber optic module 60 for a fiber laser device, when the fiber structure 15 is optically connected to the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 and the output coupler 14 via the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 31B, for example, there is a possibility that the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 31B may move due to play, and the ends of the fibers 27 and 28 may also move in response to the movement of the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 31B, which may adversely affect the performance. In this case, since the fibers 27 and 28 are fixed in the module housing 61, the movement of the fibers 27 and 28 can be suppressed in the fiber optic module 60 for a fiber laser device. At this time, when optical fibers 27 and 28 are fixed at one end (closer to the first optical fiber connectors 31A and 31B) within the module housing 61, the short fiber length from the end of optical fibers 27 and 28 to the fixed position makes them susceptible to significant displacement due to movement of the first optical fiber connectors 31A and 31B and the ends of optical fibers 27 and 28. Consequently, optical fibers 27 and 28 are prone to bending, potentially adversely affecting performance. In contrast, in the fiber optic module 60 for fiber laser devices, since optical fibers 27 and 28 are fixed at the other end (farthest from the first optical fiber connectors 31A and 31B) within the module housing 61, the fiber length from the end of optical fibers 27 and 28 to the fixed position is longer. Therefore, bending of optical fibers 27 and 28 due to movement of the first optical fiber connectors 31A and 31B and the ends of optical fibers 27 and 28 can be suppressed. Thus, adverse effects on performance can be suppressed.

[0105] In the fiber optic module 60 for a fiber laser device, within the module housing 61, the straight portions of the optical fibers 27 and 28 are fixed at one end. In this case, bending of the optical fibers 27 and 28 can be further suppressed.

[0106] like Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the supercontinuous light source 10 can also replace the movable retainer 76. Figure 4 It includes a pair of movable retainers 180 and further includes an engagement detection unit 140.

[0107] A pair of movable retainers 180 are respectively provided corresponding to the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B. Each pair of movable retainers 180 is independently movable. One movable retainer 180 is movable in a manner that holds the second fiber optic connector 32B, and the orientation of the second fiber optic connector 32B changes between a first orientation and a second orientation. The other movable retainer 180 is movable in a manner that holds the second fiber optic connector 32A, and the orientation of the second fiber optic connector 32A changes between a first orientation and a second orientation.

[0108] A movable retainer 180 includes a fixed member 181 and a swing member 185 connected to the fixed member 181 via a hinge 83. The fixed member 181 is fixed to a second partition plate 74. The hinge 83 is fixed to one hinge plate side of the fixed member 181. The swing member 185 is a member capable of swinging relative to the fixed member 81. The hinge 83 is fixed to the other hinge plate side of the swing member 185. The swing member 185 has a block-shaped form. The swing member 185 holds the second fiber optic connector 32B. A magnetic plate 186 is fixed to the upper surface of the swing member 185. The magnetic plate 186 is related to the aforementioned magnetic plate 86 (see reference 186). Figure 7 The magnetic plate 186 is similarly constructed. It can be connected to the retaining portion 178 included in the fixing member 181 by magnetic force. The retaining portion 178 is similar to the aforementioned retaining portion 78 (see reference 78). Figure 7 Similarly, it is composed of...

[0109] In the modified hinge 83, one hinge plate side and the other hinge plate side are movable by a predetermined length. Thus, the swing member 185 is configured to move relative to the fixed member 181 by a predetermined length in the direction along the swing axis 83x. Furthermore, the predetermined length may correspond to the looseness between one hinge plate side and the other hinge plate side of hinge 83, for example, it may be 1 to 2 mm. Regarding the other movable retainer 180, since it has the same structure as the movable retainer 180, its description is omitted.

[0110] The coupling detection unit 140 includes a hinge 141 and a deflector plate 142. The hinge 141 deflects the deflector plate 142 about a swing axis 141x along the width direction. The hinge plate 141A side, which is the fixed side of the hinge 141, is fixed to the second partition plate 74. The hinge plate 141B side, which is the movable side of the hinge 141, is fixed to the flat plate portion 142x of the deflector plate 142 described below. In the hinge 141 here, a force acts to pull the movable hinge plate 141B side downward. The deflector plate 142 has a flat plate portion 142x and a curved portion 142y that protrudes upward and is continuous with the rear end of the flat plate portion 142x.

[0111] Such a connector detection unit 140 Figure 18 As shown, with the movable retainer 180 movable in a second orientation with the second fiber optic connector 32A facing downwards, the connector 79 separates from the bend 142y. At this time, the hinge plate 141A of the hinge 141 is stretched downwards, the slant plate 142 tilts downwards relative to the rear side, and the bend 142y rises. Then, as... Figure 17 As shown, the movable retainer 180 is movable with the second fiber optic connector 32A facing first, thereby abutting the connector 79 against the bend 142y, which is pressed downwards, and the slant plate 142 remains in a horizontal position. The presence of the connector 79 can be detected by detecting the state of the slant plate 142.

[0112] On the other hand, such as Figure 19 As shown, when the connector 79 is not installed, the bend 142y is not pressed downwards, and the slant plate 142 remains tilted. The presence of the connector 79 can be detected by detecting the state of the slant plate 142. Furthermore, in this state, the first fiber optic connector 31A of the fiber optic module 60 of the fiber laser device can be brought into contact with the bend 142y, restricting the forward movement of the module housing 61 so that it is not fully inserted forward. With the forward movement of the module housing 61 restricted, the interlocking mechanism (not shown) operates.

[0113] above, Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 The illustrated variation includes a connector detection unit 140 that detects the presence or absence of the connector 79. In this case, the connector 79 can be prevented from being forgotten to be installed based on the detection result of the connector detection unit 140. Furthermore, the interlocking mechanism can be activated even when the connector 79 is not installed. Thus, laser emission from the fiber optic module 60 of the fiber laser device can be prevented when the connector 79 is not installed. This prevents malfunctions when the connector 79 is not installed, thereby improving safety.

[0114] In a modified example, the oscillating member 185 is capable of moving a predetermined length relative to the fixed member 181 in the direction along the oscillation axis 83x. In this case, when optically connecting the fiber optic structure 15 to the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 and the output coupler 14, even if the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 31B are displaced relative to the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B in the direction along the oscillation axis 83x, the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B (fiber optic module 60 for fiber laser device) can be moved to eliminate the displacement. By making the hinge 83 loose, even if misalignment occurs between the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 31B and the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B, both can be inserted into the connector 79 in a coordinated manner.

[0115] [Second Implementation]

[0116] like Figure 20 As shown, the supercontinuum light source 110 of the second embodiment differs from the supercontinuum light source 10 of the first embodiment in that the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 is modularized as a fiber optic module 160 for a fiber laser device (see reference). Figure 2 )different.

[0117] In this embodiment, the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 has optical fibers 121, 29, and 122 and optical fiber connectors 33A, 33B, and 33C disposed at the ends of the optical fibers 121, 29, and 122. The excitation light source 11 has an optical fiber 21 and an optical fiber connector 34A disposed at the end of the optical fiber 21. The amplification optical fiber 13 has an optical fiber 22 and an optical fiber connector 35C disposed at the end of the optical fiber 22. Optical fiber connectors 34A and 33A can be connected, optical fiber connectors 31B and 33B can be connected, and optical fiber connectors 35C and 33C can be connected.

[0118] That is, the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 constituting the first optical element and the optical fiber structure 15 constituting the second optical element can be optically connected via optical fiber connectors 33B and 31B. Furthermore, the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 constituting the first optical element and the excitation light source 11 constituting the second optical element can be optically connected via optical fiber connectors 33A and 34A. Furthermore, the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 constituting the first optical element and the amplification optical fiber 13 constituting the second optical element can be optically connected via optical fiber connectors 33C and 35C. Optical fiber connectors 33A, 33B, and 33C constitute the first optical fiber connector, and optical fiber connectors 31B, 34A, and 35C constitute the second optical fiber connector.

[0119] In such a supercontinuum light source 110 and fiber optic module 160 for fiber laser device, the same effects as in the above-described embodiments can also be obtained.

[0120] [Third Implementation]

[0121] like Figure 21 As shown, the supercontinuum light source 210 of the third embodiment differs from the supercontinuum light source 10 of the first embodiment in that the excitation light source 11 is modularized as a fiber optic module 260 for a fiber laser device (see reference). Figure 2 )different.

[0122] In this embodiment, the excitation light source 11 has an optical fiber 21 and an optical fiber connector 34A disposed at the end of the optical fiber 21. The wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 has an optical fiber 121 and an optical fiber connector 33A disposed at the end of the optical fiber 121. The optical fiber connectors 34A and 33A can be connected. That is, the excitation light source 11 constituting the first optical element and the wavelength division multiplexing coupler 12 constituting the second optical element can be optically connected via the optical fiber connectors 34A and 33A. In addition, the fiber optic module 260 for the fiber laser device has a substrate 211 for mounting the excitation light source 11. The optical fiber connector 34A constitutes the first optical fiber connector, and the optical fiber connector 33A constitutes the second optical fiber connector.

[0123] In such a supercontinuum light source 210 and fiber optic module 260 for fiber laser device, the same effect as in the above-described embodiment can also be obtained.

[0124] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be modified or applied to other methods without changing the spirit of the present invention.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the module housing 61 is detachably mounted inside the housing 16 via the second opening 72, but this is not a limitation. For example, Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the hypercontinuum light source 310 can also be detachably mounted on the housing 16 via the first opening 371, which is the module housing 361 (fiber optic module 360 ​​for fiber laser device).

[0126] Module housing 361 corresponds to module housing 61 (reference) Figure 10 The first opening 371 corresponds to the first opening 71 (see reference). Figure 10 The first opening 371 has a size that allows the module housing 61 to protrude out of the housing 16 without contacting the housing 16 when the movable retainer 76 is movable. For example, in the front-rear direction, the length from the rear edge of the first opening 371 to the movable retainer 76 is greater than the front-rear dimension of the module housing 61. Furthermore, in the supercontinuum light source 310, the second opening 72 is not formed in the housing 16 (see reference). Figure 10 ).

[0127] In such a hypercontinuum light source 310, for example, the movable retainer 76, on which the module housing 361 is mounted, is swung 90°, causing the module housing 361 to protrude from the first opening 371 and to be in a state where the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B face upwards (and the first fiber optic connectors 31A and 32A face downwards). In this state, the module housing 361 can be removed from the housing 16 by removing the connector 79.

[0128] In the above embodiments, the fiber optic structure 15 (see reference) can also be replaced. Figure 9 The fiber laser device uses a fiber module 60, such as Figure 24 The fiber optic module 460 shown is equipped with an isolator 415 for a fiber laser device. The isolator 415 includes a saturable absorber K.

[0129] In the above embodiments, the first optical element, the second optical element, and the optical element are not particularly limited and can be various optical elements. In the above embodiments, the first opening 71 and 371 are formed in the upper wall 16a opposite to and adjacent to the movable retainer 76 in the housing 16, but the first opening 71 and 371 can also be formed in the wall portion opposite to or adjacent to the movable retainer 76 in the housing 16.

[0130] In the above embodiment, the module housing 61 is configured to have different shapes on the upper and lower sides when viewed from the front-back direction, but it is not limited to this. It can also be configured to have different shapes on one side and the other side in the width direction when viewed from the front-back direction. As long as the module housing 61 is configured to have different shapes on one side and the other side in the first direction perpendicular to the front-back direction when viewed from the front-back direction.

[0131] In the above embodiment, a protrusion 66 covering the lower part of the gripping portion 62 is provided on the outer surface of the housing 16, but the protrusion 66 only needs to cover at least a portion of the area around the protruding gripping portion 62. In the above embodiment, the first fiber optic connector 31A and the second fiber optic connector 32A are connected via a connector 79, but the connector 79 may be omitted depending on the situation.

[0132] In the above embodiment, when the movable retainer 76 is movable with the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B becoming the second orientation, the end faces of the optical fibers 29 and 26 protrude outward from the first opening 71, and the end faces of the optical fibers 29 and 26 are located outside the housing 16 via the first opening 71, but it is not limited to this. The movable retainer 76 can be movable with the end faces of the optical fibers 29 and 26 exposed from the first opening 71 when the orientation of the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B becomes the second orientation, or the end faces of the optical fibers 29 and 26 can be located inside the housing 16.

[0133] In the above embodiments, it is also possible to forget to tighten the screws N (see reference) used to mount the module housings 61, 361 to the housing 16. Figure 10 When the interlocking mechanism is activated, it prevents the laser from being emitted from the fiber optic module 60 of the fiber laser device.

[0134] The above-described embodiments may further include a locking mechanism that prevents the fiber optic modules 60, 160, 260, 360, and 460 (first optical elements) of the fiber laser device from being removed from the housing 16 when the laser is oscillated using the supercontinuum light sources 10, 110, 210, and 310. By providing the locking mechanism, damage (such as burns) caused by removing the fiber optic modules 60, 160, 260, 360, and 460 of the fiber laser device during laser oscillation can be prevented. The locking mechanism is a safety mechanism that prevents the fiber optic modules 60, 160, 260, 360, and 460 of the fiber laser device from being removed when the supercontinuum light sources 10, 110, 210, and 310 are operating (e.g., when the power is on). For example, the locking mechanism can also be a solenoid mechanism, that is, an anti-detachment pin that appears when the supercontinuous light sources 10, 110, 210, and 310 are in operation and engages with the module housings 61 and 361, and disappears when the supercontinuous light sources 10, 110, 210, and 310 are not in operation, thus releasing the engagement.

[0135] In the above embodiments, the second fiber optic connectors 32A and 32B can be held using a non-movable conventional retainer instead of the movable retainer 76. In the above embodiments, the fiber optic modules 60, 160, 260, 360, and 460 for fiber laser devices are modularized by housing the first optical elements in the module housings 61 and 361, but such modularization may not be performed depending on the circumstances.

[0136] The structures of the above-described embodiments and modifications are not limited to the materials and shapes described above; various materials and shapes can be used. Furthermore, the structures of the above-described embodiments and modifications can be arbitrarily applied to structures of other embodiments or modifications. One aspect of the present invention can also be mastered as a supercontinuum light source.

[0137] Explanation of symbols

[0138] 10, 110, 210, 310… Supercontinuum light source (fiber laser device), 11… Excitation source (first optical element, second optical element, optical element), 12… Wavelength division multiplexing coupler (first optical element, second optical element, optical element), 13… Amplification fiber (second optical element), 14… Output coupler (second optical element), 15… Fiber optic structure (first optical element, second optical element, optical element), 16… Housing, 16a… Upper wall (wall portion), 16b… Rear wall (wall portion), 18… Fiber optic tube, 26, 29… Fiber optic (second fiber optic), 27, 28… Fiber optic (first fiber optic), 31A… First fiber optic connector (fiber optic connector), 31B… First fiber optic connector (fiber optic connector, second fiber optic connector), 32A, 32B… Second fiber optic connector, 33A… Fiber optic connector (first fiber optic connector, second fiber optic connector), 33B, 3 3C… Fiber optic connector (first fiber optic connector), 34A… Fiber optic connector (first fiber optic connector, second fiber optic connector), 35C… Fiber optic connector (second fiber optic connector), 60, 160, 260, 360, 460… Fiber optic modules for fiber laser devices, 61, 361… Module housing, 62… Holding part, 66… Protrusion, 71, 371… First opening, 72… Second opening (opening), 73… First separator 74…Second partition plate (support plate), 75…fan, 76…movable retainer, 78…retaining part, 79…jointer, 81, 181…fixed part, 82, 185…swinging part, 83x…swinging shaft, 92…elastic part, 140…jointer detection part, 415…isolator (first optical element, second optical element, optical element), K…saturable absorber, R1…first space, R2…second space.

Claims

1. A fiber laser device, characterized in that: include: case; A first optical element, housed within the housing, has a first optical fiber and a first optical fiber connector disposed at the end of the first optical fiber, for laser oscillation; and The second optical element, housed within the housing, includes a second optical fiber and a second optical fiber connector located at the end of the second optical fiber, for oscillation of the laser. The first optical element and the second optical element can be optically connected via the first fiber optic connector and the second fiber optic connector. At least a portion of the first optical element is housed within the module housing. An opening is formed in the wall of the housing. The module housing is detachably mounted inside the housing via the opening. At one end of the module housing, the end of the first optical fiber and the first optical fiber connector are provided in a manner that protrudes from the module housing. The module housing is inserted into the opening from one end side. The module housing, when viewed from one end, has a shape that differs on one side from the other in a first direction. The opening corresponds to the shape of the module housing.

2. The fiber laser device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The first optical element includes a saturable absorber, an excitation source, or a wavelength division multiplexing coupler.

3. The fiber laser device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: It also includes a gripping part disposed on the module housing. The gripping part is provided to protrude from the outer surface of the housing when the module housing is installed inside the housing. On the outer surface of the housing, there is a protrusion that covers at least a portion of the periphery of the protruding grip portion.

4. The fiber laser device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: include: A partition plate that divides the interior of the housing into a first space and a second space; and A fan that compresses and delivers air into the first space. The first optical element and the second optical element are disposed within the second space.

5. The fiber laser device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: It also includes an elastic component that presses the module housing toward the mounting surface on which the module housing is mounted.

6. The fiber laser device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: It also includes a locking mechanism that prevents the module housing from being disassembled from the housing when the laser is oscillated using the fiber laser device.

7. A fiber laser device, characterized in that: include: case; A first optical element, housed within the housing, has a first optical fiber and a first optical fiber connector disposed at the end of the first optical fiber, for laser oscillation; and The second optical element, housed within the housing, includes a second optical fiber and a second optical fiber connector located at the end of the second optical fiber, for oscillation of the laser. The first optical element and the second optical element can be optically connected via the first fiber optic connector and the second fiber optic connector. At least a portion of the first optical element is housed within the module housing. An opening is formed in the wall of the housing. The module housing is detachably mounted inside the housing via the opening. At one end of the module housing, the end of the first optical fiber and the first optical fiber connector are provided in a manner that protrudes from the module housing. Also includes: A connector that connects the first fiber optic connector to the second fiber optic connector; and A connector detection unit that detects the presence or absence of the connector.

8. The fiber laser device as described in claim 7, characterized in that: The first optical element includes a saturable absorber, an excitation source, or a wavelength division multiplexing coupler.

9. The fiber laser device as described in claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: It also includes a gripping part disposed on the module housing. The gripping part is provided to protrude from the outer surface of the housing when the module housing is installed inside the housing. On the outer surface of the housing, there is a protrusion that covers at least a portion of the periphery of the protruding grip portion.

10. The fiber laser device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that: include: A partition plate that divides the interior of the housing into a first space and a second space; and A fan that compresses and delivers air into the first space. The first optical element and the second optical element are disposed within the second space.

11. The fiber laser device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that: It also includes an elastic component that presses the module housing toward the mounting surface on which the module housing is mounted.

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