Optical connector and method for manufacturing optical connector
By introducing a second protective member into the optical fiber connector to cover the third area of the optical fiber, the problem of easy damage to the optical fiber during the insertion process is solved, and efficient insertion and stability guarantee of the optical fiber is achieved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202380047676.3
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2022-07-14
- Filing Date
- 2023-06-15
- Publication Date
- 2025-02-07
AI Technical Summary
Existing optical connectors are prone to damage to the optical fiber during the optical fiber insertion process, especially when the exposed part of the optical fiber becomes longer, the optical fiber is easily damaged.
An optical connector is designed, which includes an optical fiber member, a core core and a second protective member. The optical fiber member consists of an optical fiber and a first protective member, which is disposed in a first area of the optical fiber and covers the area. The ferrule has a through hole for insertion of the second region of the optical fiber, and the second protective member is provided in the third region of the optical fiber, covering at least a portion of the region to prevent damage to the optical fiber.
By providing the second protective member in the third area of the optical fiber, damage to the optical fiber can be effectively suppressed, the efficiency of optical fiber insertion can be improved, and the stability of the optical fiber can be ensured.
Smart Images
Figure CN119404122A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to an optical connector and a method for manufacturing an optical connector. This application claims priority based on Japanese Application No. 2022-113132 filed on Jul. 14, 2022, and all the contents described in the Japanese Application are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art
[0002] Conventionally, there is known an optical connector including: an optical fiber including a glass fiber and a coating covering the glass fiber; and a ferrule (for example, see Patent Document 1). In such an optical connector, a portion of the optical fiber is inserted into a through hole of the ferrule.
[0003] Prior art literature
[0004] Patent Literature
[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2020 / 145011 Summary of the invention
[0006] The optical connector disclosed in the present invention comprises: an optical fiber component having an optical fiber and a first protective component, wherein the first protective component is arranged in a first area of the optical fiber and covers the first area; a core having a through hole for inserting a second area of the optical fiber; and a second protective component arranged in a third area of the optical fiber between the first protective component and the core, the second protective component covering at least a portion of the third area of the optical fiber.
[0007] The manufacturing method of the optical connector disclosed in the present invention comprises: a first step of preparing an optical fiber component, the optical fiber component having an optical fiber and a first protective component covering the optical fiber; a second step of removing a portion of the first protective component in such a manner that the first protective component remains in the first region of the optical fiber, thereby exposing the second region of the optical fiber and a third region located between the first region and the second region; a third step of inserting the second region of the optical fiber into a through hole of a ferrule; and a fourth step of providing a second protective component on at least a portion of the third region of the optical fiber, wherein in the third step, the second region of the optical fiber is inserted into the through hole of the ferrule while the third region of the optical fiber is gripped, and in the fourth step, the exposed portion of the third region is covered with the second protective component. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of the optical connector according to the first embodiment.
[0009] Figure 2 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram of the optical fiber component, the ferrule and the second protective component is shown.
[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 1A perspective view of the second protective member is shown.
[0011] Figure 4 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram showing the manufacturing process of an optical connector.
[0012] Figure 5 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram showing the manufacturing process of an optical connector.
[0013] Figure 6 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram showing the manufacturing process of an optical connector.
[0014] Figure 7 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram showing the manufacturing process of an optical connector.
[0015] Figure 8 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram showing the manufacturing process of an optical connector.
[0016] Fig. 9 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram showing the manufacturing process of an optical connector.
[0017] Fig.10 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram showing the manufacturing process of an optical connector.
[0018] Fig.11 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram showing the manufacturing process of an optical connector.
[0019] Fig.12 It is a cross-sectional view of the optical connector according to the second embodiment.
[0020] Fig.13 Yes means Fig.12 A diagram of the optical fiber component, the ferrule and the second protective component is shown.
[0021] Fig.14 It is along Fig.13 Cross-sectional view along line XIV-XIV.
[0022] Fig.15 It is along Fig.13 Cross-sectional view of line XV-XV.
[0023] Fig.16 It is a perspective view of a holding member of an optical connector according to a modified example.
[0024] Fig.17 It is a perspective view of a second protective member according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] [Problems to be Solved by the Present Disclosure]
[0026] The optical connector described in Patent Document 1 may have a protective member (e.g., a cord) that covers a portion of the optical fiber. When the optical fiber is inserted into the through hole of the ferrule, if the exposed portion of the optical fiber (the coated glass fiber) exposed from the protective member is grasped, the insertion efficiency of the optical fiber is improved, so it is sometimes required to ensure the length of the exposed portion of the optical fiber. However, if the exposed portion of the optical fiber becomes longer, at least a portion of the exposed portion will always be exposed to the outside of the optical connector, and as a result, the optical fiber may become easily damaged.
[0027] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an optical connector and a method for manufacturing the optical connector that can suppress damage to an optical fiber.
[0028] [Effects of the present disclosure]
[0029] According to the present disclosure, damage to the optical fiber can be suppressed.
[0030] [Description of Embodiments of the Present Disclosure]
[0031] First, the contents of the embodiments of the present disclosure are listed and described.
[0032] (1) The optical connector disclosed in the present invention comprises: an optical fiber component having an optical fiber and a first protective component, wherein the first protective component is arranged in a first region of the optical fiber and covers the first region; a ferrule having a through hole for inserting a second region of the optical fiber; and a second protective component arranged in a third region of the optical fiber between the first protective component and the ferrule, wherein the second protective component covers at least a portion of the third region of the optical fiber.
[0033] In the optical connector, the optical fiber includes a third area, and the third area is located between the first area provided with the first protective member and the second area to be inserted into the through hole of the ferrule. Thus, the second area of the optical fiber can be inserted into the through hole of the ferrule while the third area of the optical fiber is grasped. Therefore, the optical fiber can be efficiently inserted into the through hole of the ferrule. In addition, in addition to the first protective member provided in the first area of the optical fiber, the optical connector also includes a second protective member provided in the third area of the optical fiber. Thus, the length of the third area for grasping the optical fiber can be fully ensured, and the exposure of the third area can be suppressed. Thus, according to the optical connector, damage to the optical fiber can be suppressed.
[0034] (2) In the optical connector of (1) above, the length of the third region may be 20 mm or more and 500 mm or less. This allows the length of the third region for gripping the optical fiber to be appropriately ensured.
[0035] (3) In the optical connector of (1) or (2) above, the optical fiber may be a single optical fiber, and the first protective member may be a single first protective member. This can prevent damage to the single optical fiber.
[0036] (4) In the optical connector of (1) or (2) above, the optical fiber may be each of a plurality of optical fibers, and the first protective member may be a first protective member, and the first protective member may cover the first region of the plurality of optical fibers. Thus, damage to each of the plurality of optical fibers can be suppressed.
[0037] (5) In the optical connector of (4) above, the optical connector may further include a first fixing member, the first fixing member being provided in the first region and the third region, the first fixing member fixing the plurality of optical fibers as a whole in the first region, and the first fixing member being separated for each of the plurality of optical fibers in the third region. Thus, each of the plurality of optical fibers can be inserted into the through hole of the ferrule one by one while the third region of each of the plurality of optical fibers is grasped.
[0038] (6) In the optical connector of (5) above, the optical connector may further include a second fixing member, which is disposed in the third region and fixes the plurality of optical fibers together. Thus, after each of the plurality of optical fibers is inserted into the through hole of the ferrule one by one, the third region of the plurality of optical fibers can be fixed by the second fixing member.
[0039] (7) In the optical connector of any one of (4) to (6) above, the optical connector may further include a holding member, the holding member being arranged in the internal space of the ferrule, the holding member comprising: a fixing portion that fixes the coating portion of the optical fiber; and a holding portion that holds the coating removal portion of the optical fiber. Thus, the optical fiber can be properly held and fixed in the internal space of the ferrule.
[0040] (8) In the optical connector according to any one of (1) to (7), the second protective member may have elasticity. Thus, the second protective member can be easily provided in the third region of the optical fiber by deforming the second protective member.
[0041] (9) In the optical connector of (8) above, the second protective member may be cylindrical and extend along the axial direction of the second protective member. This can appropriately protect the optical fiber.
[0042] (10) In the optical connector of (9) above, a slit may be formed in the second protective member, the slit extending along the axial direction of the second protective member and allowing the optical fiber member to pass along a direction intersecting the axial direction of the second protective member. Thus, the second protective member can be easily provided in the third region of the optical fiber via the slit.
[0043] (11) In the optical connector of any one of (1) to (10) above, the optical fiber may be a centering optical fiber. In this case, the optical fiber is rotated while the third region of the optical fiber is grasped, thereby enabling the centering of the optical fiber relative to the ferrule. In addition, by sufficiently ensuring the length of the third region as described above, the twisting of the optical fiber caused by the centering can be suppressed.
[0044] (12) The manufacturing method of the optical connector disclosed in the present invention comprises: a first step of preparing an optical fiber component, the optical fiber component having an optical fiber and a first protective component covering the optical fiber; a second step of removing a portion of the first protective component in such a manner that the first protective component remains in the first region of the optical fiber, thereby exposing the second region of the optical fiber and a third region located between the first region and the second region; a third step of inserting the second region of the optical fiber into a through hole of a ferrule; and a fourth step of providing a second protective component on at least a portion of the third region of the optical fiber, wherein in the third step, the second region of the optical fiber is inserted into the through hole of the ferrule while the third region of the optical fiber is gripped, and in the fourth step, the exposed portion of the third region is covered with the second protective component.
[0045] In the third step of the manufacturing method of the optical connector, the second region of the optical fiber is inserted into the through hole of the ferrule while the third region of the optical fiber is grasped. Thus, the optical fiber can be efficiently inserted into the through hole of the ferrule. Moreover, in the fourth step, the exposed portion of the third region is covered with the second protective member. Thus, the length of the third region for grasping the optical fiber can be sufficiently ensured, and the exposure of the third region can be suppressed. Thus, according to the manufacturing method of the optical connector, damage to the optical fiber can be suppressed.
[0046] (13) In the manufacturing method of the optical connector of (12) above, the optical fiber may be rotated in the third step while the third region of the optical fiber is gripped, thereby performing centering of the optical fiber relative to the ferrule. In this case, by ensuring a sufficient length of the third region as described above, twisting of the optical fiber caused by centering can be suppressed.
[0047] [Details of the embodiments of the present disclosure]
[0048] Specific examples of the optical connector and the method for manufacturing the optical connector according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is indicated by the claims, and is intended to include all changes within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.
[0049] [First embodiment]
[0050] like Figure 1As shown, the optical connector 1 of the first embodiment includes an optical fiber member 2 , a ferrule 3 , a front housing 4 , a spring 5 , a rear housing 6 , a second protective member 7 , a fixing member 8 , and a sheath 9 .
[0051] The optical fiber component 2 has an optical fiber 21 and a first protective component 22. That is, the optical connector 1 is a single-core connector. The optical fiber 21 includes a glass fiber and a coating. The glass fiber, for example, has a core and a cladding surrounding the core. The cross-section of the glass fiber is, for example, circular. The coating covers the glass fiber. A portion of the top of the coating is removed from the glass fiber. The coating is, for example, an ultraviolet curing resin. The optical fiber 21 is, for example, a centering optical fiber. A centering optical fiber refers to an optical fiber having an axis and is an optical fiber that needs to be aligned in the direction of rotation with the axis as the rotation axis. The optical fiber 21 is, for example, a multi-core optical fiber, a polarization-maintaining optical fiber, or an optical fiber bundle.
[0052] The first protective member 22 covers a portion of the optical fiber 21. The first protective member 22 covers a portion of the optical fiber 21 where a coating is formed. The first protective member 22 is, for example, a cord for protecting the optical fiber 21.
[0053] The ferrule 3 is provided in the portion (top portion) of the optical fiber 21 where the coating is removed. The ferrule 3 holds the top portion of the optical fiber 21. The front housing 4 has an internal space for accommodating the ferrule 3. The top of the ferrule 3 protrudes from the top of the front housing 4. The inner wall of the front housing 4 includes an inclined surface. The ferrule 3 is in contact with the inclined surface. The ferrule 3 is positioned by the inclined surface. The spring 5 is accommodated in the front housing 4.
[0054] The rear housing 6 has a first member 61 and a second member 62. A portion of the first member 61 is inserted into the rear end portion of the front housing 4. The first member 61 is fixed to the front housing 4. The first member 61 has an internal space that communicates with the internal space of the front housing 4. The second member 62 is, for example, cylindrical. A portion of the second member 62 is inserted into the rear end portion of the first member 61. A top end 62a of the second member 62 is located in the internal space of the first member 61. A rear end 62b of the second member 62 is located outside the first member 61. The second member 62 is fixed to the first member 61.
[0055] The spring 5 is pressed between the second member 62 and the ferrule 3. Thus, the spring 5 applies elastic force to the ferrule 3. The ferrule 3 is pressed against the inclined surface of the front housing 4 by the elastic force of the spring 5.
[0056] The second protective member 7 is located between the second member 62 and the first protective member 22 of the optical fiber member 2. The second protective member 7 covers a portion of the optical fiber 21. The second protective member 7 is, for example, tubular (cylindrical). The second protective member 7 is, for example, a cord for protecting the optical fiber 21. The outer diameter of the second protective member 7 is the same as the outer diameter of the first protective member 22. The material of the second protective member 7 is the same as the material of the first protective member 22.
[0057] The fixing member 8 includes a restraining member 81 and a caulking member 82. The restraining member 81 is, for example, cylindrical. The restraining member 81 is, for example, heat-shrinkable. When the restraining member 81 is heated, it shrinks. The restraining member 81 is arranged outside the second protective member 7. The restraining member 81 restrains the second protective member 7 toward the radial inner side of the second protective member 7.
[0058] The rivet member 82 is, for example, cylindrical. The material of the rivet member 82 is, for example, metal. The rivet member 82 is fixed to the restraining member 81. The tensile fiber 71 (see Figure 2 ) is sandwiched between the rivet member 82 and the second member 62 of the rear housing 6, and the rivet member 82 is fixed to the second member 62 by rivet. In this way, the second protective member 7 is fixed to the rear housing 6 by the fixing member 8. A portion of the second protective member 7 on the opposite side to the rear housing 6 is exposed from the restraining member 81.
[0059] The sheath 9 is arranged outside the rear case 6 and the fixing member 8. The sheath 9 spans the rear case 6 and the fixing member 8. The sheath 9 protects the rear case 6 and the fixing member 8. A portion of the fixing member 8 on the opposite side to the rear case 6 is exposed from the sheath 9.
[0060] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the optical fiber member 2 , the ferrule 3 , and the second protective member 7 . Figure 2 Yes means Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the optical connector 1 except for the front housing 4, the spring 5, the rear housing 6, the fixing member 8 and the sheath 9. Figure 2 As shown, the ferrule 3 has a ferrule portion 31 and a flange portion 32. The ferrule portion 31 is, for example, cylindrical. The ferrule portion 31 has a through hole 31a. The tip portion (the portion where the coating is removed) of the optical fiber 21 is inserted into the through hole 31a.
[0061] The flange portion 32 is, for example, in the shape of a cylinder having a flange. A portion of the ferrule portion 31 is inserted into the flange portion 32. The flange portion 32 is fixed to the ferrule portion 31. The internal space 32a of the flange portion 32 is connected to the through hole 31a of the ferrule portion 31. The ferrule 3 includes a top 3a and a rear end 3b on the opposite side of the top 3a. The top 3a is the top of the ferrule portion 31, and the rear end 3b is the rear end of the flange portion 32. The top of the optical fiber 21 is consistent with the top 3a. The "consistent" mentioned here is "roughly consistent" within the range of allowable error. That is, the top of the optical fiber 21 can be completely consistent with the top 3a, or it can be roughly consistent with the top 3a within the range of allowable error.
[0062] The optical fiber 21 includes a first region R1, a second region R2, and a third region R3. The first region R1 is a region of the optical fiber 21 where the first protective member 22 is provided. That is, the first region R1 is defined by the first protective member 22. The first protective member 22 covers the first region R1. The second region R2 is a region of the optical fiber 21 where the ferrule 3 is provided. That is, the second region R2 is defined by the ferrule 3. The second region R2 is a region between the top 3a and the rear end 3b of the ferrule 3 in the optical fiber 21. A portion of the second region R2 is inserted into the through hole 31a as the top portion of the optical fiber 21. The second region R2 is away from the first region R1.
[0063] The third region R3 is a region between the first protective member 22 and the ferrule 3 in the optical fiber 21. That is, the third region R3 is a region between the first region R1 and the second region R2 in the optical fiber 21. The length of the third region R3 is greater than the length of the second region R2 (the distance between the top 3a and the rear end 3b of the ferrule 3). The length of the third region R3 is, for example, greater than 20 mm and less than 500 mm. The length of the third region R3 is, for example, greater than 100 mm and less than 500 mm. The length of the third region R3 is, for example, greater than 200 mm and less than 500 mm. When the length of the third region R3 is short, the connection portion (boundary) between the second protective member 7 and the first protective member 22 is arranged near the rear end 62b of the second member 62, and it is easy to bend or be forced during operation, so there is a problem in strength. On the other hand, when the length of the third region R3 is long, there is a problem that it is difficult to insert or set the second protective member 7, and the operation becomes difficult.
[0064] The second protective member 7 covers at least a portion of the third region R3. Specifically, the third region R3 includes a fourth region R4 and a fifth region R5. The fourth region R4 is the region from the rear end 3b of the ferrule 3 to the rear end 62b of the second member 62 of the rear housing 6 in the optical fiber 21 (see Figure 1). The fifth region R5 is a region between the rear end 62b of the second member 62 in the optical fiber 21 and the first protective member 22. That is, the fifth region R5 is a region between the fourth region R4 and the first region R1 in the optical fiber 21. The length of the fifth region R5 is greater than the length of the fourth region R4. The length of the fifth region R5 is, for example, greater than 10 mm and less than 490 mm.
[0065] The second protective member 7 is provided in the fifth region R5. The second protective member 7 covers the fifth region R5. The second protective member 7 is fixed to the first protective member 22, for example, by riveting or bonding. The length of the second protective member 7 is slightly smaller than the length of the fifth region R5. The length of the second protective member 7 may also be consistent with the length of the fifth region R5. The "consistent" mentioned here means "roughly consistent" within the range of allowable error. That is, the length of the second protective member 7 may be completely consistent with the length of the fifth region R5, or may be roughly consistent with the length of the fifth region R5 within the range of allowable error. The length of the second protective member 7 may also be greater than the length of the fifth region R5. The length of the second protective member 7 is greater than the length of the fourth region R4. The length of the second protective member 7 is, for example, greater than 10 mm and less than 490 mm.
[0066] A plurality of tensile fibers 71 are provided inside the second protective member 7. A portion of the tensile fibers 71 is exposed from the second protective member 7. The tensile fibers 71 are fixed to the second protective member 7. The plurality of tensile fibers 71 may be integrated, for example, by a belt or the like. That is, the plurality of tensile fibers 71 may be fixed as one. Specifically, at least a portion of the region in the extension direction of the tensile fibers 71 among the plurality of tensile fibers 71 may also be fixed by a belt. Thus, separation of adjacent tensile fibers 71 from each other is suppressed.
[0067] like Figure 3As shown in FIG. 1 , a slit 7a is formed in the second protective member 7. The slit 7a extends along the axial direction of the second protective member 7. The slit 7a reaches both ends of the second protective member 7 in the axial direction. That is, the length of the slit 7a is the same as the length of the second protective member 7. The second protective member 7 has elasticity. The material of the second protective member 7 is, for example, resin. The width of the slit 7a can be changed according to the deformation of the second protective member 7. When the axis of the optical fiber 21 is parallel to the axis of the second protective member 7, the optical fiber member 2 can pass through the slit 7a in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the second protective member 7. The "parallel" mentioned here means "substantially parallel" within the range of an allowable error. That is, the optical fiber member 2 can pass through the slit 7a in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the second protective member 7 when the axis of the optical fiber 21 is completely parallel to the axis of the second protective member 7, or the optical fiber member 2 can pass through the slit 7a in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the second protective member 7 when the axis of the optical fiber 21 is substantially parallel to the axis of the second protective member 7. When the width of the slit 7 a increases as a result of the deformation of the second protective member 7 , the optical fiber member 2 can move into the second protective member 7 through the slit 7 a .
[0068] Next, a method for manufacturing the optical connector 1 is described. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the optical fiber member 2 is prepared (first step). At this time, the first protective member 22 of the optical fiber member 2 covers the entire optical fiber 21. Next, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, a portion of the first protective member 22 is removed in such a manner that the first protective member 22 remains in the first region R1 of the optical fiber 21 (second process). As a result, the second region R2 and the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 are exposed from the first protective member 22. It should be noted that, similarly to the second protective member 7, a plurality of tensile fibers 23 are also provided on the inner side of the first protective member 22. When a portion of the first protective member 22 is removed, a portion of the tensile fibers 23 is exposed from the first protective member 22. Next, a portion of the exposed tensile fibers 23 is cut off. The tensile fibers 23 may also reach the third region R3 or the second region R2. That is, the length of the portion of the tensile fibers 23 exposed from the first protective member 22 may be less than the length of the third region R3 or may be greater than the length of the third region R3.
[0069] Next, a portion of the top end of the coating of the optical fiber 21 is removed. Specifically, the coating of the portion of the optical fiber 21 formed in the through hole 31a to be inserted into the ferrule 3 is removed. Thus, the top end portion of the optical fiber 21 is formed. Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the spring 5, the rear housing 6, the fixing member 8 and the sheath 9 are respectively arranged outside the first protective member 22 of the optical fiber member 2. Figure 7As shown, the second region R2 of the optical fiber 21 is inserted into the through hole 31a of the ferrule 3 (third step). Specifically, a portion of the second region R2 of the optical fiber 21 (the tip portion of the optical fiber 21) is inserted into the through hole 31a, and another portion of the second region R2 of the optical fiber 21 is arranged in the internal space 32a of the flange portion 32.
[0070] In the third step, a portion of the second region R2 of the optical fiber 21 is inserted into the through hole 31a of the ferrule 3 while the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 is grasped. The third region R3 is grasped by the operator's hand or a clamp. Next, while the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 is grasped, the optical fiber 21 is rotated (third step). Thus, the centering of the optical fiber 21 is performed relative to the ferrule 3. In the third step, while the first protective member 22 and the ferrule 3 are fixed, the optical fiber 21 is rotated. The optical fiber 21 is subject to resistance from the first protective member 22, so if the optical fiber 21 is rotated while the first protective member 22 is fixed, twisting of the optical fiber 21 occurs. Next, the optical fiber 21 is fixed to the ferrule 3, for example, by an adhesive. Next, the end face processing of the ferrule 3 and the optical fiber 21 is performed. It should be noted that in Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the illustration of the rear housing 6 and the like is simplified.
[0071] Then, if Figure 8 As shown, the front housing 4 is arranged outside the ferrule 3. Next, the spring 5 is arranged in the internal space of the front housing 4. Next, the first member 61 of the rear housing 6 is inserted into the front housing 4. Thus, the rear housing 6 is fixed to the front housing 4. The fourth region R4 of the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 is arranged in the internal space of the rear housing 6. That is, the fifth region R5 of the third region R3 is exposed to the outside.
[0072] Then, if Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the second protective member 7 is provided in at least a portion of the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 (the fourth step). Specifically, the second protective member 7 is provided in the fifth region R5 in the third region R3. That is, in the fourth step, the exposed portion of the third region R3 is covered with the second protective member 7. In the fourth step, the slit 7a (see FIG. 1 ) of the second protective member 7 is formed. Figure 3 ) is expanded, the fifth region R5 is arranged inside the second protective member 7 via the slit 7a. When the fifth region R5 is arranged inside the second protective member 7, the width of the slit 7a decreases and returns to the original state. The tensile fiber 71 provided inside the second protective member 7 is arranged outside the second member 62 of the rear shell 6. The tensile fiber 23 (refer to Figure 8 ) can also be configured outside the second component 62 of the rear shell 6.
[0073] Then, if Fig.10 As shown, in the tensile fiber 71 (refer to Fig. 9 ) and tensile fiber 23 (reference Figure 8 ) is sandwiched between the rivet member 82 and the second member 62, and the rivet member 82 of the fixing member 8 is fixed to the second member 62 by rivet. Next, the restraining member 81 of the fixing member 8 is heated. As a result, the restraining member 81 shrinks, and as a result, the second protective member 7 is restrained by the restraining member 81. Next, as Fig.11 As shown, the sheath 9 is arranged outside the rear housing 6 and the fixing member 8. Next, the second protection member 7 is fixed to the first protection member 22 by, for example, riveting or bonding. Through the above steps, the optical connector 1 is manufactured.
[0074] As described above, in the optical connector 1, the optical fiber 21 includes the third region R3, which is located between the first region R1 provided with the first protective member 22 and the second region R2 to be inserted into the through hole 31a of the ferrule 3. Thus, the second region R2 of the optical fiber 21 can be inserted into the through hole 31a of the ferrule 3 while the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 is gripped. Therefore, the optical fiber 21 can be efficiently inserted into the through hole 31a of the ferrule 3. In addition, the optical connector 1 includes the second protective member 7 provided in the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 in addition to the first protective member 22 provided in the first region R1 of the optical fiber 21. Thus, the length of the third region R3 for gripping the optical fiber 21 can be sufficiently ensured, and the exposure of the third region R3 can be suppressed. Thus, according to the optical connector 1, damage to the optical fiber 21 can be suppressed.
[0075] The length of the third region R3 is 20 mm or more and 500 mm or less. Thus, the length of the third region R3 for gripping the optical fiber 21 can be appropriately ensured.
[0076] The optical fiber member 2 has one optical fiber 21 and one first protective member 22. Thus, damage to the one optical fiber 21 can be suppressed.
[0077] The second protective member 7 has elasticity. Therefore, the second protective member 7 can be easily provided in the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 by deforming the second protective member 7.
[0078] The second protective member 7 has a cylindrical shape and extends along the axial direction of the second protective member 7. Thus, the optical fiber 21 can be appropriately protected.
[0079] A slit 7a is formed in the second protective member 7. The slit 7a extends along the axial direction of the second protective member 7. The optical fiber member 2 can pass through the slit 7a in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the second protective member 7. Thus, the second protective member 7 can be easily provided in the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 via the slit 7a.
[0080] The optical fiber 21 is a centering optical fiber. Therefore, by rotating the optical fiber 21 while grasping the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21, the optical fiber 21 can be center-aligned relative to the ferrule 3. In addition, by sufficiently ensuring the length of the third region R3 as described above, the twisting of the optical fiber 21 caused by the centering can be suppressed.
[0081] In the third step of the manufacturing method of the optical connector 1, the second region R2 of the optical fiber 21 is inserted into the through hole 31a of the ferrule 3 while the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 is gripped. Thus, the optical fiber 21 can be efficiently inserted into the through hole 31a of the ferrule 3. Furthermore, in the fourth step, the exposed portion of the third region R3 is covered with the second protective member 7. Thus, the length of the third region R3 for gripping the optical fiber 21 can be sufficiently ensured, and the exposure of the third region R3 can be suppressed. Thus, according to the manufacturing method of the optical connector 1, damage to the optical fiber 21 can be suppressed.
[0082] In the third step, the optical fiber 21 is rotated while the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 is gripped. Thus, the optical fiber 21 is aligned with respect to the ferrule 3. Thus, by sufficiently ensuring the length of the third region R3 as described above, twisting of the optical fiber 21 caused by the alignment can be suppressed.
[0083] [Second embodiment]
[0084] Fig.12 1 is a cross-sectional view of an optical connector 1A according to a second embodiment. The optical connector 1A according to the second embodiment includes an optical fiber member 2A, a ferrule 3A, a front housing 4A, a spring 5, an outer housing 41A, a rear housing 6A, a second protective member 7A, a fixing member 8A, and a sheath 9A. Hereinafter, the parts of the optical connector 1A according to the second embodiment that are different from the optical connector 1 according to the first embodiment will be described, and descriptions of the same structures as those of the optical connector 1 according to the first embodiment will be omitted.
[0085] The optical fiber member 2A includes a plurality of optical fibers 21 and a first protective member 22A (see Fig.14). The ferrule 3A has a plurality of through holes 3c. The front housing 4A accommodates the ferrule 3A and the spring 5. The outer housing 41A is arranged on the outside of the front housing 4A. The rear housing 6A is, for example, in the shape of a rectangular cylinder. A portion of the rear housing 6A is inserted into the front housing 4A. The top end 6a of the rear housing 6A is located in the internal space of the front housing 4. The rear end 6b of the rear housing 6A is located on the outside of the front housing 4. The rear housing 6A is fixed to the front housing 4A. The rear housing 6A is engaged with the front housing 4A.
[0086] The fixing member 8A is, for example, cylindrical. The material of the fixing member 8A is, for example, metal. The tensile fiber 71 (see Fig.13 ) is sandwiched between the fixing member 8A and the rear housing 6A, and the fixing member 8A is fixed to the rear housing 6A by riveting. The sheath 9A is arranged outside the rear housing 6A, the fixing member 8A and the second protection member 7A. The sheath 9A protects the rear housing 6A, the fixing member 8A and the second protection member 7A. A part of the second protection member 7A on the opposite side to the rear housing 6A is exposed from the sheath 9A.
[0087] like Fig.13 As shown, the ferrule 3A has a through hole 3c. The ferrule 3A has a plurality of through holes 3c. The plurality of through holes 3c are arranged in a row in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the through holes 3c. The top end portion of each optical fiber 21 is inserted into each through hole 3c. The ferrule 3A has an internal space 3d connected to each through hole 3c. The plurality of through holes 3c are located on the top end 3a side of the ferrule 3A. The internal space 3d is located on the rear end 3b side of the ferrule 3A.
[0088] The length of the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21 is greater than the length of the ferrule 3A (the distance between the top 3a and the rear end 3b). The fourth region R4 of the optical fiber 21 is the distance between the rear end 3b of the ferrule 3A in the optical fiber 21 and the rear end 6b of the rear housing 6A (refer to Fig.12 The fifth region R5 of the optical fiber 21 is a region between the rear end 6b of the rear housing 6A and the first protective member 22 in the optical fiber 21.
[0089] like Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, the optical fiber member 2A includes a plurality of optical fibers 21, a first protective member 22A, a first fixing member 24, and a second fixing member 25. The plurality of optical fibers 21 are arranged in a row in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the optical fibers 21. The first protective member 22A is provided outside the first region R1 of the plurality of optical fibers 21. The first protective member 22A covers the first region R1 of the plurality of optical fibers 21. The second protective member 7A is provided outside the fifth region R5 of the plurality of optical fibers 21. The second protective member 7A covers the fifth region R5 of the plurality of optical fibers 21.
[0090] The first fixing member 24 is provided outside the first region R1 and the third region R3 of the plurality of optical fibers 21. The first fixing member 24 covers the first region R1 and the third region R3 of the plurality of optical fibers 21. The first fixing member 24 is provided inside the first protective member 22A in the first region R1. The first fixing member 24 is provided inside the second protective member 7A in the fifth region R5. The first fixing member 24 is, for example, an adhesive or the like.
[0091] The first fixing member 24 is formed integrally with the plurality of optical fibers 21 in the first region R1. In other words, the first fixing member 24 fixes the plurality of optical fibers 21 as a whole in the first region R1. The first fixing member 24 is continuously connected across the optical fibers 21 in the first region R1. Thus, the plurality of optical fibers 21 are fixed by the first fixing member 24 in the first region R1.
[0092] The first fixing member 24 is separately formed on each of the plurality of optical fibers 21 in the third region R3. In other words, the first fixing member 24 is separated for each of the plurality of optical fibers 21 in the third region R3. That is, the first fixing member 24 is provided for each optical fiber 21 in the third region R3. The first fixing members 24 provided in the third region R3 of each optical fiber 21 are separated from each other. The plurality of optical fibers 21 are not fixed to each other by the first fixing member 24 in the third region R3. The first fixing members 24 provided in the third region R3 of each optical fiber 21 are cut from the state of being formed as one piece for the plurality of optical fibers 21 for each optical fiber 21.
[0093] The second fixing member 25 is provided outside the third region R3 of the plurality of optical fibers 21. The second fixing member 25 covers the third region R3 of the plurality of optical fibers 21. The second fixing member 25 is provided outside the first fixing member 24. The second fixing member 25 covers the first fixing member 24. The second fixing member 25 is provided inside the second protective member 7A in the fifth region R5. The second fixing member 25 is, for example, an adhesive or the like.
[0094] The second fixing member 25 is formed integrally with the plurality of optical fibers 21. That is, the second fixing member 25 is continuously connected across each optical fiber 21. The second fixing member 25 fixes the plurality of optical fibers 21 as a whole. Thus, the plurality of optical fibers 21 are fixed in the third region R3 by the second fixing member 25. It should be noted that Fig.12 and Fig.13 In the figure, the first fixing member 24 and the second fixing member 25 are omitted.
[0095] Next, a description will be given of a method for manufacturing the optical connector 1A that is different from the method for manufacturing the optical connector 1. In the method for manufacturing the optical connector 1A, when a portion of the first protective member 22A is removed in such a manner that the first protective member 22A remains in the first region R1 of the plurality of optical fibers 21, the second region R2 and the third region R3 of the plurality of optical fibers 21 are exposed from the first protective member 22A while being covered by the first fixing member 24.
[0096] In the manufacturing method of the optical connector 1A, in the second region R2 and the third region R3 of the plurality of optical fibers 21, the first fixing member 24 is cut into each optical fiber 21 from a state where the plurality of optical fibers 21 are integrally formed. In the manufacturing method of the optical connector 1A, the third region R3 of each optical fiber 21 is gripped in a state where the third region R3 of each optical fiber 21 is covered by the first fixing member 24.
[0097] In the manufacturing method of the optical connector 1A, after each optical fiber 21 is inserted into the through hole 3c of the ferrule 3A, the fifth region R5 of the plurality of optical fibers 21 is fixed by the second fixing member 25. In the manufacturing method of the optical connector 1A, in a state where the fifth region 5a of the plurality of optical fibers 21 is fixed by the second fixing member 25, the fifth region 5a of the plurality of optical fibers 21 is arranged inside the second protective member 7A via the slit 7a.
[0098] As described above, the optical fiber member 2A includes the plurality of optical fibers 21 and the first protective member 22A. The first protective member 22A covers the first region R1 of the plurality of optical fibers 21. Thus, damage to each of the plurality of optical fibers 21 can be suppressed.
[0099] The optical connector 1A includes a first fixing member 24, which is provided in the first region R1 and the third region R3. The first fixing member 24 fixes the plurality of optical fibers 21 as a whole in the first region R1. The first fixing member 24 is separated for each of the plurality of optical fibers 21 in the third region R3. Thus, each optical fiber 21 can be inserted into the through hole 3c of the ferrule 3A one by one in a state where the third region R3 of each optical fiber 21 is grasped.
[0100] The optical connector 1A includes a second fixing member 25 provided in the third region R3. The second fixing member 25 fixes the plurality of optical fibers 21 as a whole. Thus, after the optical fibers 21 are inserted into the through holes 3c of the ferrule 3A one by one, the third region R3 of the plurality of optical fibers 21 can be fixed by the second fixing member 25.
[0101] [Modifications]
[0102] As mentioned above, although one embodiment of the present disclosure has been described, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment.
[0103] like Fig.16 As shown, the optical connector 1A may also include a holding member 33. The holding member 33 is arranged in the internal space 3d of the ferrule 3A. The holding member 33 includes a holding portion 34 and a fixing portion 35. The holding portion 34 includes a surface 34a. A plurality of grooves 34b are formed on the surface 34a. The plurality of grooves 34b hold the top end portion (coating removal portion) of the optical fiber 21. The grooves 34b define the radial position of the optical fiber 21. The holding portion 34 may also have a plurality of through holes instead of the plurality of grooves 34b.
[0104] The fixing portion 35 is formed integrally with the holding portion 34. That is, the fixing portion 35 and the holding portion 34 are formed as one component. The fixing portion 35 includes a surface 35a. The surface 35a is parallel to the surface 34a of the holding portion 34. The surface 35a is located on a plane different from the surface 34a. The surface 35a is located on the groove 34b side relative to the surface 34a. The remaining portion (coating portion) of the coating in the second region R2 of the optical fiber 21 is arranged on the surface 35a. The coating portion of the optical fiber 21 is fixed to the surface 35a. Thus, the optical fiber 21 can be properly held and fixed in the internal space 3d of the ferrule 3A. In addition, by arranging the coating removal portion of the optical fiber 21 in the groove 34b and arranging the coating portion having an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the coating removal portion on the surface 35a, the bending of the optical fiber 21 can be suppressed.
[0105] like Fig.17 As shown, the optical connector 1 and the optical connector 1A may also have a second protective member 7B instead of the second protective member 7 and the second protective member 7A. The second protective member 7B is, for example, cylindrical. The second protective member 7B does not have a slit. The second protective member 7B is continuously connected in the circumferential direction. The second protective member 7B is elastic. The elastic coefficient of the second protective member 7B is smaller than the elastic coefficient of the second protective member 7 and the second protective member 7A. That is, the second protective member 7B is easier to deform than the second protective member 7 and the second protective member 7A. The second protective member 7B is arranged on the outside of the optical fiber member 2 and the optical fiber member 2A along the axial direction of the optical fiber 21 in the expanded state. The second protective member 7 and the second protective member 7A may also be spiral. The second protective member 7 and the second protective member 7A may also be a spiral tube. The second protective member 7 and the second protective member 7A only need to cover at least a portion of the third region R3 of the optical fiber 21.
[0106] In the first embodiment, an example is shown in which the second protective member 7 is fixed to the first protective member 22 by riveting or bonding, but the second protective member 7 may be fixed to the first protective member 22 by a restraining member 81 of a fixing member 8 extending to the first protective member 22 in a manner spanning the second protective member 7 and the first protective member 22 .
[0107] In the first embodiment, the tensile fiber 23 is arranged outside the second member 62 of the rear housing 6, and the tensile fiber 23 is fixed to the second member 62 by riveting while being sandwiched between the riveting member 82 and the second member 62. However, the tensile fiber 23 may not be arranged outside the second member 62. The tensile fiber 23 may not be fixed to the second member 62 by riveting.
[0108] In the second embodiment, an example is shown in which the first fixing member 24 is provided in the third region R3, but the first fixing member 24 may not be provided in the third region R3. The first fixing member 24 may be removed from the third region R3. In the method for manufacturing the optical connector 1A, the third region R3 of each optical fiber 21 may be gripped in a state in which the first fixing member 24 is removed.
[0109] In each embodiment, an example is shown in which the length of the third region R3 is greater than the length of the second region R2, but the length of the third region R3 may be less than or equal to the length of the second region R2. In each embodiment, an example is shown in which the length of the fifth region R5 is greater than the length of the fourth region R4, but the length of the fifth region R5 may be less than or equal to the length of the fourth region R4. In each embodiment, an example is shown in which the length of the second protective member 7 is greater than the length of the fourth region R4, but the length of the second protective member 7 may be less than or equal to the length of the fourth region R4.
[0110] In each embodiment, an example is shown in which a plurality of tensile fibers 71 are provided inside the second protective member 7, 7A, but the tensile fibers 71 may not be provided inside the second protective member 7, 7A. In each embodiment, an example is shown in which a plurality of tensile fibers 23 are provided inside the first protective member 22, 22A, but the tensile fibers 23 may not be provided inside the first protective member 22, 22A.
[0111] Description of Reference Numerals
[0112] 1.1A: Optical connector
[0113] 2.2A: Optical fiber components
[0114] 3.3A: Insert
[0115] 4.4A: Front housing
[0116] 5: Spring
[0117] 6.6A: Rear housing
[0118] 7, 7A, 7B: Second protection member
[0119] 8.8A: Fixed components
[0120] 9, 9A: Sheath
[0121] 21: Fiber Optics
[0122] 22, 22A: First protection member
[0123] 23: tensile fiber
[0124] 24: First fixing member
[0125] 25: Second fixing member
[0126] 3a: Top
[0127] 3b: Backend
[0128] 3c: Through hole
[0129] 3d: interior space
[0130] 31: Insert part
[0131] 31a: Through hole
[0132] 32: Flange part
[0133] 32a: Inner Space
[0134] 33: Keep the component
[0135] 34: Maintaining Department
[0136] 34a: Surface
[0137] 34b: Slot
[0138] 35: Fixed part
[0139] 35a: Surface
[0140] 41A: Outer shell
[0141] 6a: Top
[0142] 6b: Backend
[0143] 61: First Component
[0144] 62: Second component
[0145] 62a: Top
[0146] 62b: Backend
[0147] 7a: Slit
[0148] 71: tensile fiber
[0149] 81: Constraint Component
[0150] 82: Riveted components
[0151] R1: First Area
[0152] R2: Second Area
[0153] R3: The third area
[0154] R4: The fourth area
[0155] R5: The fifth area.
Claims
1. An optical connector comprising: An optical fiber component comprises an optical fiber and a first protective component, wherein: The first protective member is disposed in a first region of the optical fiber and covers the first region; A ferrule having a through hole for inserting the second region of the optical fiber; as well as A second protective member is provided in a third region of the optical fiber between the first protective member and the ferrule, The second protective member covers at least a portion of the third region of the optical fiber.
2. The optical connector according to claim 1, wherein: The length of the third region is greater than or equal to 20 mm and less than or equal to 500 mm.
3. The optical connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The optical fiber is an optical fiber, The first protective member is a first protective member.
4. The optical connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The optical fiber is each optical fiber of a plurality of optical fibers, The first protective member is a first protective member, The one first protective member covers a first region of the plurality of optical fibers.
5. The optical connector according to claim 4, further comprising: A first fixing member is provided in the first area and the third area, The first fixing member fixes the plurality of optical fibers as a whole in the first region. The first fixing member is separated in the third region for each of the plurality of optical fibers.
6. The optical connector according to claim 5, further comprising: A second fixing member is provided in the third area, The second fixing member fixes the plurality of optical fibers as a whole.
7. The optical connector according to any one of claims 4 to 6, further comprising: A holding member is arranged in the inner space of the ferrule, The holding member includes a fixing portion that fixes the coating portion of the optical fiber and a holding portion that holds the coating-removed portion of the optical fiber.
8. The optical connector according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The second protection member has elasticity.
9. The optical connector according to claim 8, wherein: The second protective member is cylindrical, The second protective member extends along an axial direction of the second protective member.
10. The optical connector according to claim 9, wherein: The second protective member has a slit formed therein. The slit extends along the axial direction of the second protective member and allows the optical fiber member to pass therethrough in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the second protective member.
11. The optical connector according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The optical fiber is a center-aligned optical fiber.
12. A method for manufacturing an optical connector, comprising: The first step is to prepare an optical fiber component, wherein the optical fiber component has an optical fiber and a first protective member covering the optical fiber; a second step of removing a portion of the first protective member so that the first protective member remains in the first region of the optical fiber, thereby exposing the second region of the optical fiber and a third region between the first region and the second region; A third step is to insert the second region of the optical fiber into the through hole of the ferrule; as well as In a fourth step, a second protective member is provided on at least a portion of the third region of the optical fiber. In the third step, the second region of the optical fiber is inserted into the through hole of the ferrule while the third region of the optical fiber is gripped. In the fourth step, the exposed portion of the third region is covered with the second protective member.
13. The method for manufacturing an optical connector according to claim 12, wherein: In the third step, the optical fiber is rotated in a state where the third region of the optical fiber is gripped, thereby aligning the optical fiber with respect to the ferrule.
Citation Information
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