Manufacturing method of optical fiber assembly, optical fiber assembly and optical communication equipment

Abstract

The invention discloses a manufacturing method of an optical fiber assembly, and the method comprises the steps: obtaining a plurality of first supporting columns used for supporting optical fibers, enabling the center of each first supporting column to be provided with a center hole penetrating through the two ends of the first supporting column, and enabling one optical fiber to be inserted into each center hole; the multiple first supporting columns are combined according to a preset arrangement pattern; the combination of the multiple first supporting columns after arrangement is kept together through a keeping device; and an adhesive is added into gaps among the multiple target supporting columns so that the multiple target supporting columns can adhere to one another. The manufacturing difficulty of the optical fiber assembly can be reduced, and the position precision of the optical fiber is improved. The invention further discloses an optical fiber assembly and optical communication equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of optical fiber communication technology, and in particular to a method for manufacturing an optical fiber component, an optical fiber component and an optical communication device. Background Art

[0002] Fiber optic arrays first started as one-dimensional fiber optic arrays and gradually evolved into two-dimensional fiber optic arrays. Two-dimensional fiber optic arrays have more ports, high density, and high precision, and can achieve parallel transmission, connection, and exchange of multiple optical signals, and are increasingly used in the field of communications.

[0003] Two-dimensional fiber array (hereinafter referred to as fiber assembly) is an important optical device, and its typical applications include: Mems OXC, optical switch, surface transmitter, surface detector, fiber image bundle or fiber beam bundle, etc. In the prior art, a two-dimensional fiber collimator array is made by coupling a fiber assembly with a lens array. Since the coupling has very high requirements on the position accuracy of the optical fiber in the fiber assembly, the fiber assembly is difficult to manufacture, and the position accuracy of the optical fiber is difficult to meet the accuracy requirements. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present application provides a method for manufacturing an optical fiber assembly, an optical fiber assembly, and optical communication equipment, which can reduce the difficulty of manufacturing the optical fiber assembly and improve the position accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides a method for manufacturing an optical fiber assembly, comprising:

[0006] Obtain a plurality of first support columns for supporting optical fibers, wherein a center hole penetrating through two ends of the first support column is provided at the center of each first support column, and an optical fiber is inserted into each center hole;

[0007] Combining a plurality of first support columns according to a preset arrangement pattern;

[0008] Using a holding device to hold the arranged plurality of first support columns together;

[0009] Adhesive is added into gaps between the plurality of target support pillars so that the plurality of target support pillars are adhered to each other.

[0010] Specifically, in a preferred case, a binder may be added to the gaps between all target support pillars. In some cases, a binder may also be added to the gaps between some target support pillars as required.

[0011] The embodiment of the present application forms a fiber matrix (fiber assembly) by inserting the optical fiber into the first support column and combining the first support columns with the optical fiber disposed therein. This method of combining the first support columns with the optical fiber disposed therein as independent individual units can not only reduce the processing difficulty of the fiber assembly, but also facilitate the adjustment of the position of the first support column so that the optical fiber can be aligned with the coupling object, thereby improving the position accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0012] In addition, the present application can also grind and coat the support columns with optical fibers installed one by one, and then combine them, so that unqualified optical fibers can be partially repaired, and the integrity and quality of the entire connector will not be affected by poor processing such as grinding and coating of a certain optical fiber. In addition, the present application can assemble connectors with different numbers of optical fibers and optical fiber densities by adjusting the number and density of the first support columns, and has strong scalability, thereby avoiding the use of different molds for processing different optical fiber components, greatly reducing production costs. In addition, the present application can regard a single first support column as a core, first couple a single support column with a single lens, and then combine the first support columns coupled with multiple lenses to form a coupling element of the optical fiber component and the lens array, thereby greatly reducing the difficulty of coupling. In addition, the present application can realize the connection of optical fibers in two optical fiber components for loss testing during the process of assembling the optical fiber component. When the loss is too large, the position accuracy of the optical fiber can be improved by timely adjusting the position of the first support column, thereby reducing the loss in time.

[0013] In some implementations of the present application, the target support column is determined based on support column spot detection;

[0014] Support column spot detection includes:

[0015] Light is passed through each optical fiber in each first support column, and light outputted by each optical fiber is projected onto a light spot detection device to form a first light spot projection; illustratively, light may be passed through each optical fiber in chronological order, or light may be passed through each optical fiber at the same time;

[0016] Using a light spot detection device to detect the position accuracy of each first light spot projection, and determine whether the position of each first light spot projection coincides with the standard position;

[0017] When the position of the first light spot projection does not coincide with the standard position, the position of the first support column corresponding to the first light spot projection is adjusted so that the position of the first light spot projection coincides with the standard position; illustratively, the operator may use tweezers to move the first support column to adjust its position, or may use other tools to adjust the position of the first support column;

[0018] The first supporting column corresponding to the overlapping first light spot projection is determined as the target supporting column.

[0019] Since there is a tolerance between the diameter size of the first support column and the position size of the center hole, the cumulative tolerance will be larger after combining multiple first support columns. The present application detects the position of the optical fiber using a light spot detection device and adjusts the position of the first support column according to the detection result, thereby reducing the adverse effects of the cumulative tolerance and improving the position accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0020] In some implementations of the present application, the holding device is provided with an adjustment component, the adjustment component is used to adjust the relative position between at least one first support column and other first support columns among the plurality of first support columns, and

[0021] The position of the first support column corresponding to the projection of the first light spot is adjusted, including

[0022] The adjustment component is used to adjust the position of the first support column corresponding to the non-overlapping first light spot projection.

[0023] In some implementations of the present application, combining the plurality of first support columns according to a preset arrangement pattern includes: extending the first support columns in the same direction and aligning end surfaces of the first support columns at least on the first side;

[0024] The preset arrangement pattern includes a honeycomb shape and a chessboard shape. When the preset arrangement pattern is a honeycomb shape, the line connecting the centers of any four adjacent first support columns forms a parallelogram; when the preset arrangement pattern is a chessboard shape, the line connecting the centers of any four adjacent first support columns forms a rectangle.

[0025] The present application does not limit the distance between two adjacent first support columns. The two adjacent first support columns can be in contact with each other or be separated by a certain distance. The distance between the first support columns can be set according to actual needs during production.

[0026] In some implementations of the present application, when the preset arrangement pattern is a honeycomb shape, the number of first support columns is 7, one first support column is located at the center of the preset arrangement pattern, and the remaining 6 first support columns are arranged in sequence around the first support column located at the center; when the preset arrangement pattern is a checkerboard shape, the number of first support columns is 4 or 9, and the number of rows and columns of the first support columns is equal.

[0027] In some implementations of the present application, the manufacturing method provided by the present application further includes:

[0028] The holding device is removed from the plurality of first supporting columns on which bonding of the target supporting columns is completed, and a stacking unit including the plurality of first supporting columns is obtained.

[0029] In some implementations of the present application, the manufacturing method provided by the present application further includes:

[0030] Get multiple stacking units;

[0031] Using a fixing frame to shape and fix multiple stacking units;

[0032] Adhesive is added into the gaps between the plurality of target stacking units so that the plurality of target stacking units are bonded to each other.

[0033] By adopting the above technical solution, when manufacturing an optical fiber assembly with a large number of optical fibers, multiple stacking units can be combined, thereby simplifying the operation steps and ensuring the position accuracy of the optical fibers.

[0034] In some implementations of the present application, the fixing frame includes a concave frame and a pressure strip, and the fixing frame is used to shape and fix a plurality of stacking units, including:

[0035] According to the arrangement pattern of each first support column in the stacking unit, each stacking unit is arranged and inserted into the concave frame; illustratively, when the arrangement pattern of each first support column in the stacking unit is a honeycomb shape, each stacking unit is arranged in a honeycomb shape; when the arrangement pattern of each first support column in the stacking unit is a chessboard shape, each stacking unit is arranged in a chessboard shape;

[0036] Determining that there is no gap between the stacking units inserted into the concave frame that is sufficient to insert the second support column, wherein the structure and size of the second support column are the same as the first support column;

[0037] The pressure strip is arranged at the opening of the concave frame to fix each stacking unit so as to maintain the relative displacement between each stacking unit.

[0038] Specifically, the manner of determining that there is no gap between the stacking units inserted into the concave frame that is sufficient for inserting the second supporting column depends on the preset arrangement pattern of the stacking units.

[0039] In the case where the preset arrangement pattern is a honeycomb shape, determining that there is no gap between the stacking units inserted into the concave frame sufficient to insert the second support column includes:

[0040] Determine that there is a gap between each stacking unit so that the second support column can be inserted;

[0041] A second supporting column with an optical fiber inside is inserted into the gap between each stacking unit to fill the gap.

[0042] In the case where the preset arrangement pattern is a chessboard shape, determining that there is no gap between the stacking units inserted into the concave frame that is sufficient to insert the second support column includes:

[0043] Determine the shape of the rectangle formed by the combination of each stacking unit.

[0044] In some implementations of the present application, when the second support column is inserted into a gap between at least two stacking units, the position accuracy of the second support column inserted into the gap and each stacking unit adjacent to the second support column is calibrated.

[0045] Specifically, the method for calibrating the position accuracy of the second support column inserted into the gap and each stacking unit adjacent to the second support column depends on the specific structure of the first support column and the second support column.

[0046] In some embodiments, the first support column and the second support column each include a first column and a second column sequentially arranged along their extension direction, the second column is arranged at the rear end of the first column, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second column is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first column, and a step surface is provided between the second column and the first column; and

[0047] Calibrating the position accuracy of each stacking unit and each second support column includes:

[0048] Obtain a position calibration device, wherein a plurality of first openings are provided on the position calibration device, the shape of the first openings is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the second cylinder, and the position arrangement of the first openings is the same as the preset arrangement pattern;

[0049] Selecting a plurality of second columns as first calibration objects, each first calibration object comes from a different stacking unit, or comes from a stacking unit and a second support column, and inserting each first calibration object into each first opening;

[0050] If the first calibration object cannot be inserted into the first opening, the position of the stacking unit or the second supporting column corresponding to the first calibration object is adjusted so that the first calibration object can be inserted into the first opening corresponding thereto.

[0051] In some implementations of the present application, the method further includes: after fixing the arranged multiple stacking units using a fixing frame, the method further includes: removing the position calibration device from the second column.

[0052] In some other embodiments, along the extension direction of the first support column and the second support column, the cross-sectional shapes of the first support column and the second support column at each location are the same and the areas are equal, and calibrating the position accuracy of each stacking unit and each second support column includes:

[0053] Obtain a film, the film is made of a transparent material, and is marked with a plurality of center hole position marks, and the position arrangement of each position mark is the same as the preset arrangement pattern;

[0054] Selecting a plurality of center holes as second calibration objects, wherein each second calibration object comes from a different stacking unit, or comes from a stacking unit and a second support column;

[0055] Cover the front end surface of each second calibration object with a film, observe the position of each second calibration object with a microscope, and align each second calibration object with each position mark one by one;

[0056] If the second calibration object is not aligned with the position mark, the position of the stacking unit or the second support column corresponding to the second calibration object is adjusted so that the second calibration object can be aligned with the position mark corresponding thereto. For example, the stacking unit or the second support column can be adjusted by moving it with tweezers, or by using other tools.

[0057] In some implementations of the present application, the target stacking unit is determined based on the stacking unit spot detection:

[0058] Stacked unit spot detection includes:

[0059] Selecting multiple optical fibers as detection objects, each detection object comes from a different stacking unit, or comes from the stacking unit and the second support column;

[0060] Light is transmitted to each detection object, and the light output by each detection object is projected onto the light spot detection device to form a second light spot projection;

[0061] Using a light spot detection device to detect the position accuracy of each second light spot projection, and determine whether the position of each second light spot projection coincides with the standard position;

[0062] When the position of the second light spot projection does not coincide with the standard position, adjusting the position of the first support column or the second support column corresponding to the second light spot projection so that the position of the second light spot projection coincides with the standard position;

[0063] The stacking unit corresponding to the overlapping second light spot projection is determined as the target stacking unit.

[0064] There will be cumulative tolerances in the stacking process of multiple stacking units. Although the position of each stacking unit has been calibrated using a position calibration device or film, calibration using a position calibration device and film are both physical calibration methods and can only be used for rough positioning. Therefore, it is also necessary to use the above-mentioned spot detection device to accurately position the position of the optical fiber to reduce the adverse effects of the cumulative tolerance and improve the position accuracy of the optical fiber. Specifically, the stacking unit can be adjusted by moving it with tweezers, or by using other tools.

[0065] In a second aspect, the present application provides an optical fiber assembly, which is manufactured according to the manufacturing method of the first aspect, and the optical fiber assembly includes a plurality of first support columns for supporting optical fibers, each of which is provided with a center hole penetrating through both ends of the first support column at its center, and each center hole is provided with an optical fiber. Exemplarily, the material of the first support column can be any one of plastic, ceramic, glass and metal,

[0066] In some implementations of the present application, the cross-sectional shape of the first support column is any one of a circle, an equilateral triangle, a rectangle, a regular pentagon and a hexagon. In actual production, first support columns of different shapes can be selected according to the arrangement patterns of different optical fiber arrays.

[0067] In a third aspect, the present application provides an optical fiber assembly, which is made according to the manufacturing method of the first aspect, and the optical fiber assembly includes: a plurality of stacking units, each stacking unit includes a plurality of first support columns for supporting optical fibers, and each first support column has a center hole at its center that passes through both ends of the first support column, and an optical fiber is arranged in each center hole.

[0068] When there are a large number of optical fibers in an optical fiber assembly, during the production process, multiple first support columns with optical fibers disposed therein may be arranged and combined to form a stacking unit, the position accuracy between the optical fibers in a single stacking unit may be adjusted, and then multiple stacking units may be arranged and combined to form an optical fiber assembly, and the position accuracy between the stacking units may be adjusted. By adjusting the position accuracy twice, the position accuracy of the optical fibers may be ensured even when there are a large number of optical fibers, and the operation is easy.

[0069] In some implementations of the present application, each stacking unit is arranged in a honeycomb shape, and a second support column is provided in the gap between each stacking unit. The structure and size of the second support column are the same as those of the first support column. An optical fiber is inserted into the central hole of each second support column, and the first support columns and the second support columns are arranged in a honeycomb shape as a whole.

[0070] In some implementations of the present application, the stacking units and the first support pillars in the same stacking unit are arranged in a rectangular array.

[0071] In some implementations of the present application, the cross-sectional shape of the first support column is any one of a circle, an equilateral triangle, a rectangle, a regular pentagon, and a hexagon.

[0072] In some implementations of the present application, a fixing frame is further included, and the fixing frame is used to fix each stacking unit, and the fixing frame includes a concave frame and a pressure strip. The concave frame is used to accommodate each stacking unit, so that each stacking unit can be inserted into the concave frame in a direction perpendicular to the concave frame, and a second opening is provided on one side of the concave frame. The pressure strip is provided above the second opening, and the pressure strip is detachably connected to the concave frame. The pressure strip can close the second opening to constrain the stacking unit inserted into the fixing frame and restrict the stacking unit from being removed from the fixing frame.

[0073] The present application assembles each stacking unit in a fixed frame, and each stacking unit and the fixed frame can together form a high-precision large-array optical fiber assembly. In some implementations of the present application, a coupling element coupled to the optical fiber assembly is provided with a positioning hole, and a concave frame is provided with a guide hole, and the number of the guide holes is the same as the number of the positioning holes. When the optical fiber assembly is coupled to the coupling element, the positions of the guide holes correspond to the positions of the positioning holes. The operator can insert the positioning column into the corresponding positioning holes and guide holes to position the optical fiber assembly and the coupling element using the positioning column, thereby improving the positioning accuracy and facilitating the coupling of the optical fiber and the coupling element. Exemplarily, the coupling element can be a lens array.

[0074] In a fourth aspect, the present application provides an optical communication device, comprising any optical fiber assembly in the second aspect or the third aspect.

[0075] In a fifth aspect, the present application provides a holding device for holding together a combination of a plurality of first support columns arranged in the first aspect, the holding device comprising a holding member, a third opening being provided on the holding member, the third opening penetrating the holding member, the third opening being used to accommodate each first support column, so that each first support column can be inserted into the third opening in a direction perpendicular to the third opening. Each first support column inserted into the third opening forms a stacking unit, and the shape of the third opening at least partially matches the shape of the outer contour of the stacking unit, so as to limit each first support column from moving in the third opening in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the first support seat.

[0076] In some implementations of the present application, the first support columns inserted into the third opening are arranged in a honeycomb shape, the retaining member is annular, a plurality of first protrusions are provided on the circumferential surface of the third opening, and the first protrusions are arranged along the circumference of the third opening. Each first protrusion is respectively located between two adjacent first support columns on the outside of the stacking unit and in contact with the first support column to limit the position of the first support column in contact with it along the first direction.

[0077] In some implementations of the present application, the first support columns are arranged in a checkerboard pattern, the retaining member is plate-shaped, and a plurality of second protrusions are provided on the side walls of the third opening. Each second protrusion is located between two adjacent first support columns on the outside of the stacking unit and in contact with the first support column to limit the position of the first support column in contact with it along the first direction.

[0078] In some implementations of the present application, a plurality of threaded holes are provided on the side wall of the third opening, each of which is provided with a screw, and the screw is threadedly connected to the threaded hole. When the screw is tightened, each screw can abut against a first support column inserted into the third opening to adjust the position of the first support column. Specifically, when it is necessary to move the first support column toward the center of the third opening, it is only necessary to tighten the corresponding screw inward, and the screw can apply a force to the first support column, and the first support column generates elastic deformation under the action of the screw squeezing, so that the optical fiber inside the first support column moves toward the center of the third opening. When it is necessary to move the first support column away from the center of the third opening, it is only necessary to loosen the corresponding screw outward, and the first support column can restore the elastic deformation, so that the optical fiber inside the first support column moves toward the center of the third opening.

[0079] In the sixth aspect, the present application provides a position calibration device for implementing the calibration of the position accuracy of each stacking unit and each second support column in the first aspect. The position calibration device is in the shape of a plate, and is provided with a plurality of first openings. The position arrangement of each first opening is the same as the position arrangement of the first support column, and the diameter of the first opening is equal to the diameter of the second column. Each first opening can be simultaneously sleeved on a plurality of second columns. When the second column can be inserted into the first opening corresponding to it, it means that the position accuracy of the stacking unit or the second support column corresponding to the second column meets the requirements. When the second column cannot be inserted into the first opening corresponding to it, it means that the position accuracy of the stacking unit or the second support column corresponding to the second column does not meet the requirements. At this time, the position of the stacking unit or the second support column corresponding to the second column needs to be adjusted so that the second column can be inserted into the first opening corresponding to it.

[0080] In the seventh aspect, the present application provides a light spot detection device for performing light spot detection on a first support column or a second support column including an optical fiber, and the light spot detection device includes a collimator, a focusing lens and a receiving plate arranged in sequence along the direction of light emission in the optical fiber. Among them, the collimator is used to collimate the light, the focusing lens is used to focus the light, the receiving plate is perpendicular to the light, and the receiving plate is used to receive the light so that the light can form a light spot projection on the receiving plate. A target position map is provided on the receiving plate, and the standard position of each light spot projection is marked on the target position map so that the actual position of the light spot projection can be compared with the standard position. When the position of the first light spot projection coincides with the standard position, it means that the position accuracy of the optical fiber corresponding to the first light spot projection meets the requirements. When the position of the first light spot projection does not coincide with the standard position, it means that the position accuracy of the optical fiber corresponding to the first light spot projection does not meet the requirements. At this time, the position of the first support column corresponding to the first light spot projection needs to be adjusted so that the position of the first light spot projection coincides with the standard position.

[0081] In an eighth aspect, the present application provides a coupling method of an optical fiber assembly, which is used to couple the optical fiber assembly in the second aspect with a lens array, wherein the lens array includes a plurality of lenses, and the coupling method includes:

[0082] The optical fiber in each first support column is coupled to a lens respectively, and the first support columns are combined to form a coupling element of the optical fiber assembly and the lens array;

[0083] Or, each optical fiber in the combined optical fiber assembly is coupled to each lens in the lens array at the same time.

[0084] In a ninth aspect, the present application provides a coupling method of an optical fiber assembly, which is used to couple the optical fiber assembly in the third aspect with a lens array, wherein the lens array includes a plurality of lens units, each of which includes a plurality of lenses, and the coupling method includes:

[0085] The optical fiber in each first support column is coupled to a lens respectively, and the first support columns are combined to form a coupling element of the optical fiber assembly and the lens array;

[0086] Or, the optical fibers in a stacking unit are coupled to the lenses in a lens unit at the same time, and then the stacking units are combined to form a coupling element of the optical fiber assembly and the lens array;

[0087] Or, each optical fiber in the combined optical fiber assembly is coupled to each lens in the lens array at the same time. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0088] Figure 1 A flow chart showing a method for manufacturing an optical fiber assembly provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0089] FIG. 2( a ) shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the first support column in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 1 ;

[0090] FIG2( b ) shows an axial cross-sectional view of FIG2( a );

[0091] FIG. 3( a ) shows an exploded schematic diagram of a holding device and a stacking unit in some embodiments of the present application;

[0092] FIG3( b ) shows a schematic diagram of a combination of a holding device and a stacking unit in some embodiments of the present application;

[0093] FIG3( c ) shows a front view of FIG3( b );

[0094] FIG4( a ) shows a schematic diagram of a light spot detection device in some embodiments of the present application;

[0095] FIG4( b ) shows a schematic diagram of the receiving plate in FIG4( a );

[0096] FIG5( a ) shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a retaining device in some embodiments of the present application;

[0097] FIG5( b ) shows a cross-sectional view of FIG5( a );

[0098] FIG. 6( a ) shows a schematic structural diagram of a retaining device in some other embodiments of the present application;

[0099] FIG6( b ) shows a cross-sectional view of FIG6( a );

[0100] Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing a honeycomb-shaped preset arrangement pattern in some embodiments of the present application;

[0101] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing a chessboard-shaped preset arrangement pattern in some embodiments of the present application;

[0102] FIG9( a) shows a stereoscopic view of an optical fiber assembly provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0103] FIG9( b ) shows a front view of an optical fiber assembly provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0104] FIG. 10( a ) shows a schematic diagram of a honeycomb arrangement of stacked units in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 1 ;

[0105] FIG. 10( b ) shows a second schematic diagram of stacking units arranged in a honeycomb shape in some embodiments of the present application;

[0106] Fig.11 A schematic diagram showing a chessboard-like arrangement of stacking units in some embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0107] Fig.12 A schematic diagram showing a position calibration device in some embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0108] FIG. 13( a ) shows a schematic diagram of a selected position of a first calibration object in some embodiments of the present application;

[0109] FIG. 13( b ) shows a schematic diagram of the selected position of the first calibration object in some other embodiments of the present application;

[0110] FIG. 14( a ) shows a second structural schematic diagram of a first support column in some embodiments of the present application;

[0111] FIG14( b ) shows an axial cross-sectional view of FIG14( a );

[0112] Fig.15 A schematic diagram showing a film sheet in some embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0113] Fig.16 A schematic diagram of a stacking unit in some embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0114] Fig.17 A schematic diagram showing the cross-sectional shape of a first support column in some embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0115] Fig.18 A schematic diagram showing the structure of a single optical fiber coupled to a lens in some embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0116] FIG. 19( a ) shows an exploded view of a stacking unit coupled to a lens unit in some embodiments of the present application;

[0117] FIG. 19( b ) shows a schematic diagram of a structure in which a stacking unit is coupled to a lens unit in some embodiments of the present application;

[0118] FIG. 20( a ) shows an exploded view of a fiber optic assembly coupled to a lens array in some embodiments of the present application;

[0119] FIG. 20( b ) shows a schematic diagram of the structure of coupling an optical fiber assembly with a lens array in some embodiments of the present application;

[0120] FIG. 21( a ) shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the silicon wafer in Comparative Example 1. Figure 1 ;

[0121] FIG21( b ) shows a second schematic structural diagram of the silicon wafer in Comparative Example 1;

[0122] FIG. 22( a ) shows a schematic structural diagram of a single fixing bar in Comparative Example 2;

[0123] FIG22( b ) shows a schematic structural diagram of an optical fiber assembly provided in Comparative Example 2;

[0124] Fig.23 A schematic structural diagram of an optical fiber assembly provided in Comparative Example 3 is shown;

[0125] Fig.24 A schematic structural diagram of an optical fiber assembly provided in Comparative Example 4 is shown;

[0126] Fig.25 A schematic diagram of the structure of the optical fiber assembly provided in Comparative Example 5 is shown;

[0127] Fig.26 A schematic structural diagram of an optical fiber assembly provided in Comparative Example 6 is shown;

[0128] FIG. 27( a ) shows a schematic diagram of a structure of a plurality of stacked capillaries in Comparative Example 7;

[0129] FIG27( b ) shows a schematic diagram of the capillary being stretched in Comparative Example 7;

[0130] FIG. 27( c ) shows a schematic structural diagram of the optical fiber preform in Comparative Example 7;

[0131] FIG. 28( a ) shows a schematic diagram of first support pillars with regular hexagonal cross sections arranged in a chessboard pattern in some embodiments of the present application;

[0132] Figure 28(b) shows a schematic diagram of first support columns with regular hexagonal cross-sections arranged in a honeycomb pattern in some embodiments of the present application.

[0133] Description of reference numerals:

[0134] 1-first support column; 11-center hole; 12-first column; 13-second column;

[0135] 2- stacking unit; 21- adhesive; 22- gap;

[0136] 3- Second support column;

[0137] 4-fixed frame; 41-concave frame; 411-second opening; 412-guide hole; 42-pressing strip;

[0138] 5-holding device; 51-third opening; 52-first protrusion; 53-second protrusion; 54-threaded hole; 55-screw;

[0139] 6-position calibration device; 61-first opening;

[0140] 7-spot detection device; 71-collimating mirror; 72-focusing mirror; 73-receiving plate; 74-target position map; 75-light source;

[0141] 8-lens array; 81-lens; 82-lens unit;

[0142] 9-film; 91-position mark;

[0143] 10- Fiber optic components;

[0144] 100-fiber;

[0145] 201-silicon wafer; 202-micropore;

[0146] 301-fixing bar; 302-tank body;

[0147] 401-Bundle;

[0148] 501-frame;

[0149] 601- positioning column;

[0150] 701-capillary tube; 702-optical fiber preform. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0151] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present application clearer, the implementation methods of the present application will be further described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0152] Optical fiber components (i.e., optical fiber arrays) have the characteristics of multiple ports, high density, and high precision, and can realize the parallel transmission, connection, and exchange of multiple optical signals. They are increasingly used in the field of communications. Typical applications include: optical switches, surface transmitters, surface detectors, optical fiber image bundles, and optical fiber light bundles. The present application provides a method for manufacturing an optical fiber component, an optical fiber component, and an optical communication device, which can reduce the difficulty of manufacturing an optical fiber component and improve the position accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0153] First, refer to Figure 1 , FIG. 2(a), FIG. 2(b) and FIG. 3(a), the present application provides a method for manufacturing an optical fiber assembly, comprising:

[0154] Step S1: Obtain a plurality of first support columns 1 for supporting optical fibers, as shown in FIG. 2( a) and FIG. 2( b), wherein each first support column 1 is provided at its center with a center hole 11 penetrating through both ends of the first support column 1, and an optical fiber is inserted into each center hole 11.

[0155] Step S2: Combine multiple first support columns 1 according to a preset arrangement pattern. For example, the preset arrangement pattern can be a honeycomb (such as Figure 7 as shown) or chessboard (as shown Figure 8 When the preset arrangement pattern is a honeycomb shape, the lines connecting the centers of any four adjacent first support columns 1 form a parallelogram, such as Figure 7When the preset arrangement pattern is a chessboard, the center lines of any four adjacent first support columns 1 form a rectangle, such as Figure 8 As shown by the dotted line in .

[0156] Step S3: Using the holding device 5 as shown in FIG. 3( a ) to hold the arranged plurality of first support columns 1 together.

[0157] Specifically, referring to Figures 3(b) and 3(c), the retaining device 5 can be sleeved outside the plurality of first support columns 1 after being arranged to hold the combination of the plurality of first support columns 1 together. Figures 3(b) and 3(c) respectively show a stereoscopic view and a cross-sectional view of the retaining device 5 sleeved outside the stacking unit.

[0158] Step S4: using the selected plurality of first support columns 1 as target support columns, and adding adhesive into the gaps between the plurality of target support columns so as to make the plurality of target support columns adhere to each other.

[0159] In a preferred embodiment, a bonding agent may be added to the gaps between all target support pillars. In some cases, a bonding agent may also be added to the gaps between some target support pillars as required.

[0160] The embodiment of the present application forms a fiber matrix (i.e., a fiber assembly) by inserting the optical fiber into the first support column 1 and combining the first support columns 1 with the optical fiber disposed therein. This method of combining the first support columns 1 with the optical fiber disposed therein as independent individual units can not only reduce the processing difficulty of the fiber assembly, but also facilitate the adjustment of the position of the first support column 1 so that the optical fiber can be aligned with the coupling object, thereby improving the position accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0161] In addition, the present application can also grind and coat the first support columns 1 with optical fibers installed one by one and then assemble them, thereby facilitating partial repair of unqualified optical fibers and preventing the integrity and quality of the entire connector from being affected by poor processing such as grinding and coating of a certain optical fiber.

[0162] In addition, the present application can assemble connectors with different numbers of optical fibers and optical fiber densities by adjusting the number and density of the first support columns 1, and has strong scalability, thereby avoiding the need to use different molds to process different optical fiber components, greatly reducing production costs. In addition, the present application can regard a single first support column 1 as a core, first couple the single support column with a single lens, and then combine the first support columns 1 coupled with multiple lenses to form a coupling element between the optical fiber component and the lens array, thereby greatly reducing the difficulty of coupling. In addition, the present application can achieve loss testing by connecting the optical fibers in two optical fiber components in the process of assembling the optical fiber component. When the loss is too large, the position of the optical fiber can be adjusted in time to improve the position accuracy of the optical fiber, thereby reducing the loss in time.

[0163] The above-mentioned target support column refers to a first support column that meets the preset standard selected from the multiple first support columns that have been combined. The preset standard here is to ensure that the position accuracy of the first support column meets the requirements through the light spot detection of the first support column. The position accuracy of the first support column can be improved by bonding the determined first support column after the light spot detection. In short, the target support column is determined based on the support column light spot detection. In some implementations of the present application, the support column light spot detection includes:

[0164] Step S41: light is passed through each optical fiber in each first support column 1, and the light output by each optical fiber is projected onto the light spot detection device 7, as shown in FIG4(a), to form a first light spot projection. Exemplarily, light can be passed through each optical fiber in chronological order, or simultaneously.

[0165] Step S42: Use the light spot detection device 7 to detect the position accuracy of each first light spot projection, and determine whether the position of each first light spot projection coincides with the standard position.

[0166] Step S43: When the position of the first light spot projection does not coincide with the standard position, the position of the first support column 1 corresponding to the first light spot projection is adjusted so that the position of the first light spot projection coincides with the standard position. For example, the operator can use tweezers to move the first support column 1 to adjust its position, or can use other tools to adjust the position of the first support column 1.

[0167] Step S44: determine the first support column 1 corresponding to the overlapping first light spot projection as the target support column.

[0168] Specifically, referring to FIG. 4(a) and FIG. 4(b), the light spot detection device 7 includes a receiving plate 73, on which a target position map 74 is provided, and on which the standard positions corresponding to each optical fiber are marked. When the optical fiber passes light, the light output by the optical fiber is directed toward the receiving plate 73, and a first light spot projection is formed on the receiving plate 73. If the position of the first light spot projection coincides with the standard position on the target position map 74, it means that the position accuracy of the optical fiber corresponding to the first light spot projection meets the requirements. If the position of the first light spot projection does not coincide with the standard position on the target position map 74, it means that the position accuracy of the optical fiber corresponding to the first light spot projection does not meet the requirements. At this time, the position of the first support column 1 corresponding to the first light spot projection should be adjusted so that the position of the first light spot projection coincides with the standard position.

[0169] Since there is a tolerance between the diameter size of the first support column 1 and the position size of the center hole 11, the cumulative tolerance will be larger after combining multiple first support columns 1. The present application detects the position of the optical fiber using the light spot detection device 7 and adjusts the position of the first support column 1 according to the detection result, thereby reducing the adverse effects of the cumulative tolerance and improving the position accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0170] In some implementations of the present application, referring to FIG. 5(a), FIG. 5(b), FIG. 6(a) and FIG. 6(b), an adjustment component may be provided on the holding device 5, and the adjustment component is used to adjust the relative position between at least one first support column 1 and other first support columns 1 among the plurality of first support columns 1; and in the above step S43, in some embodiments, the above adjustment component may be used to adjust the position of the first support column 1 corresponding to the non-overlapping first light spot projection. Exemplarily, when the preset arrangement pattern of each first support column 1 is a honeycomb shape, the holding device 5 shown in FIG. 5(a) and FIG. 5(b) may be used to hold and adjust the first support column 1. When the preset arrangement pattern of each first support column 1 is a chessboard shape, the holding device 5 shown in FIG. 6(a) and FIG. 6(b) may be used to hold and adjust the first support column 1.

[0171] In some implementations of the present application, referring to FIG. 3( a ), combining a plurality of first support columns 1 according to a preset arrangement pattern includes: extending each first support column 1 in the same direction, and aligning the end faces of each first support column 1 at least on the first side.

[0172] The present application does not limit the distance between two adjacent first support columns 1, and the two adjacent first support columns 1 may be in contact with each other. Figure 7 (a) and Figure 8 As shown in (a), a certain distance can also be set between two adjacent first support columns 1 by setting a barrier, such as Figure 7 (d) and Figure 8(d) When every two adjacent first support columns 1 are in contact with each other, if the preset arrangement pattern of the first support columns 1 is a honeycomb, the line connecting the centers of any four mutually adjacent first support columns 1 forms a rhombus; if the preset arrangement pattern of the first support columns 1 is a chessboard, the line connecting the centers of any four mutually adjacent first support columns 1 forms a square. In some embodiments, some of the first support columns 1 may be in contact with each other, and some of the first support columns 1 may be spaced a certain distance apart, such as Figure 7 (b), 7(c), Figure 8 (b) and Figure 8 During production, the spacing between the first support columns 1 can be set according to actual needs.

[0173] In some implementations of the present application, when the preset arrangement pattern is a honeycomb shape, the number of first support columns 1 is 7, one of which is located at the center of the preset arrangement pattern, and the remaining 6 first support columns 1 are arranged in sequence around the first support column 1 located at the center. When the preset arrangement pattern is a chessboard shape, the number of first support columns 1 is 4 or 9, and the number of rows and columns of the first support columns 1 is equal.

[0174] In some implementations of the present application, the manufacturing method provided by the present application also includes: removing the retaining device 5 from the multiple first support columns 1 that have completed the bonding of the target support columns, to obtain a stacking unit 2 including multiple first support columns 1, as shown in Figure 3(a).

[0175] In some implementations of the present application, the manufacturing method provided by the present application further includes:

[0176] Step S5: obtaining a plurality of stacking units 2,

[0177] Step S6: using a fixing frame 4 (as shown in FIG. 9( a)) to shape and fix the plurality of stacking units 2.

[0178] Step S7: Adding adhesive into the gaps between the multiple target stacking units 2 to make the multiple target stacking units 2 adhere to each other.

[0179] By adopting the above technical solution, when manufacturing an optical fiber assembly with a large number of optical fibers, a plurality of stacking units 2 can be combined, thereby simplifying the operation steps and ensuring the position accuracy of the optical fibers.

[0180] In some implementations of the present application, referring to FIG. 9( b ), the fixing frame 4 includes a concave frame 41 and a pressure strip 42 , and the fixing frame 4 is used to shape and fix the plurality of stacking units 2 , including:

[0181] Step S61: Arrange the stacking units 2 according to the arrangement pattern of the first support columns 1 in the stacking units 2, and insert them into the concave frame 41. Exemplarily, when the arrangement pattern of the first support columns 1 in the stacking units 2 is a honeycomb shape, the stacking units 2 are arranged in a honeycomb shape; when the arrangement pattern of the first support columns 1 in the stacking units 2 is a chessboard shape, the stacking units 2 are arranged in a chessboard shape.

[0182] Step S62: Determine that there is no gap between the stacking units 2 inserted into the concave frame 41 that is large enough to insert the second support column, wherein the structure and size of the second support column are the same as those of the first support column 1.

[0183] Step S63: The pressure strip 42 is arranged at the opening of the concave frame 41 to fix each stacking unit 2 so as to maintain the relative displacement between the stacking units 2.

[0184] Specifically, the method of determining that there is no gap between the stacking units 2 inserted into the concave frame 41 that is sufficient to insert the second supporting column depends on the preset arrangement pattern of the stacking units 2 .

[0185] In the case where the preset arrangement pattern is a honeycomb, referring to FIG. 10(a), each circular dotted line in FIG. 10(a) contains a stacking unit 2, and an adhesive 21 is added between each first support column 1 in each stacking unit 2. As can be seen from FIG. 10(a), when the preset arrangement pattern is a honeycomb, there is a gap 22 between each stacking unit 2. Therefore, it is determined that there is no gap between each stacking unit 2 inserted into the concave frame 41 sufficient to insert the second support column, which means that the gap has been filled. In some embodiments, the step includes:

[0186] Step S6211: Determine whether there is a gap 22 between each stacking unit 2 into which a second supporting column can be inserted.

[0187] Step S6212 : inserting a second support column 3 with an optical fiber inside into the gap 22 between each stacking unit 2 (as shown by the thick solid circle line in FIG. 10( b )) to fill the gap 22 .

[0188] When the default arrangement pattern is a chessboard, refer to Fig.11 , Fig.11 Each of the rectangular dotted lines in FIG. 1 includes a stacking unit 2, and an adhesive 21 is added between each of the first support columns 1 in each stacking unit 2. Fig.11 It can be seen that when the preset arrangement pattern is a chessboard shape, there is no gap between the stacking units 2. Therefore, it is determined that there is no gap between the stacking units 2 inserted into the concave frame 41 that is sufficient to insert the second support column, including:

[0189] Step S6221: Determine whether the stacking units 2 are combined into a rectangular shape. In this embodiment, if the stacking units 2 are combined into a rectangular shape, there is no gap between the stacking units 2.

[0190] In some implementations of the present application, when the second support column 3 is inserted into the gap between at least two stacking units 2, the position accuracy of the second support column 3 inserted into the gap and each stacking unit 2 adjacent to the second support column 3 is calibrated. When there is no gap between the stacking units 2, the position accuracy of each stacking unit 2 is calibrated.

[0191] The following takes the arrangement image of the stacking units 2 as a honeycomb as an example to describe in detail the method of calibrating the position accuracy of the second support column 3 inserted into the gap and each stacking unit 2 adjacent to the second support column 3. Specifically, the method of calibrating the position accuracy of the second support column 3 inserted into the gap and each stacking unit 2 adjacent to the second support column 3 depends on the specific structure of the second support column 3 of the first support column 1.

[0192] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 14(a) and FIG. 14(b), the first support column 1 and the second support column 3 each include a first column 12 and a second column 13 sequentially arranged along the extension direction thereof, the second column 13 is arranged at the rear end of the first column 12, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second column 13 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first column 12, and a step surface is provided between the second column 13 and the first column 12. Calibration of the position accuracy of each stacking unit 2 and each second support column 3 includes:

[0193] Step S623: Obtain the position calibration device 6 (such as Fig.12 As shown), the position calibration device 6 is a plate body provided with a plurality of first openings 61, the shape of the first openings 61 is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the second column 13, and the position arrangement of each first opening 61 is the same as the preset arrangement pattern.

[0194] Step S624: Select multiple second cylinders 13 as first calibration objects, each first calibration object comes from a different stacking unit 2, or comes from the stacking unit 2 and the second support column 3, and insert each first calibration object into each first opening 61, and make the end face of the position calibration device 6 abut against the step surface between the first cylinder 12 and the second cylinder 13.

[0195] Specifically, in practical applications, when the number of support pillars included in the optical fiber assembly is small, the operator can use a position calibration device 6 to calibrate the positions of all support pillars in the optical fiber assembly at one time. When the number of support pillars included in the optical fiber assembly is large, multiple position calibration devices 6 can also be used to calibrate the positions of each local support pillar in the optical fiber assembly. The following takes local calibration as an example and describes the calibration method in detail in combination with Figures 13(a) and 13(b).

[0196] The support column contained in the circular bold dashed line A3 in FIG13(a) is the first calibration object. As can be seen from FIG13(a), the first calibration objects come from stacking unit A11, stacking unit A12, stacking unit A13 and second support column A21. When the position of the first calibration object needs to be calibrated, the operator sets the first opening 61 on the position calibration device 6 on each first calibration object from the rear of the first calibration object. If each second column 13 in the first calibration object can be inserted into each first opening 61, it means that the relative positions of stacking unit A11, stacking unit A12, stacking unit A13 and second support column A21 meet the requirements.

[0197] The support column contained in the circular bold dashed line B3 in Figure 13(b) is the first calibration object. It can be seen from Figure 13(b) that the first calibration objects come from stacking unit B11, stacking unit B12, stacking unit B13, second support column B21 and second support column B22. When the position of the first calibration object needs to be calibrated, the operator sets the first opening 61 on the position calibration device 6 on each first calibration object from the rear of the first calibration object. If each second column 13 in the first calibration object can be inserted into each first opening 61, it means that the relative positions of stacking unit B11, stacking unit B12, stacking unit B13, second support column B21 and second support column B22 meet the requirements.

[0198] Step S625: If the first calibration object cannot be inserted into the first opening 61, the position of the stacking unit 2 or the second support column 3 corresponding to the first calibration object is adjusted so that the first calibration object can be inserted into the corresponding first opening 61. For example, the position of the stacking unit 2 or the second support column 3 can be adjusted by moving it with tweezers, or by using other tools.

[0199] Exemplarily, the cross sections of the first support column 1 and the second support column 3 are both circular, the first column 12 and the second column 13 are cylinders with coincident axes, and the diameter of the second column 13 is smaller than the diameter of the first column 12 .

[0200] In some implementations of the present application, the method further includes: after fixing the arranged plurality of stacking units 2 by using the fixing frame 4 , the method further includes: removing the position calibration device 6 from the second column 13 .

[0201] In other embodiments, along the extension direction of the first support column 1 and the second support column 3, the cross-sectional shapes of the first support column 1 and the second support column 3 are the same and the areas are equal. Exemplarily, the first support column 1 and the second support column 3 are both cylinders, as shown in FIG. 2(a) and FIG. 2(b). Calibrating the position accuracy of each stacking unit 2 and each second support column 3 includes:

[0202] Step S626: Obtain a film sheet 9, where the film sheet 9 is made of a transparent material. Fig.15 The film 9 is marked with position marks 91 corresponding to the plurality of center holes 11 , and the position arrangement of the position marks 91 is the same as the preset arrangement pattern.

[0203] Step S627 : selecting a plurality of center holes 11 as second calibration objects, wherein each second calibration object comes from a different stacking unit 2 , or comes from the stacking unit 2 and the second support column 3 .

[0204] Step S628: Cover the front end surface of each second calibration object with a film 9, observe the position of each second calibration object with a microscope, and align each second calibration object with each position mark one by one.

[0205] If each second calibration object can be aligned with each position mark one by one, it means that the relative positions of the stacking units 2 or the second supporting pillars 3 corresponding to each second calibration object meet the requirements.

[0206] Step S629: If the second calibration object is not aligned with the position mark, the position of the stacking unit 2 or the second support column 3 corresponding to the second calibration object is adjusted so that the second calibration object can be aligned with the position mark corresponding thereto. For example, the stacking unit 2 or the second support column 3 can be adjusted by moving it with tweezers, or by using other tools.

[0207] In some implementations of the present application, the target stacking unit 2 is determined based on stacking unit spot detection. The stacking unit spot detection includes:

[0208] Step S71: Select multiple optical fibers as detection objects, each detection object comes from a different stacking unit 2, or comes from the stacking unit 2 and the second support column 3.

[0209] Step S72: Pass light through each detection object, and project the light output by each detection object onto the light spot detection device 7 to form a second light spot projection.

[0210] Step S73: Use the light spot detection device 7 to detect the position accuracy of each second light spot projection to determine whether the position of each second light spot projection coincides with the standard position.

[0211] Step S74: When the position of the second light spot projection does not coincide with the standard position, the position of the first support column 1 or the second support column 3 corresponding to the second light spot projection is adjusted to make the position of the second light spot projection coincide with the standard position.

[0212] Step S75: Determine the stacking unit 2 corresponding to the overlapping second light spot projection as the target stacking unit 2.

[0213] Specifically, referring to FIG. 4(a) and FIG. 4(b), the light spot detection device 7 includes a receiving plate 73, on which a target position map 74 is provided, and the target position map 74 marks the standard position corresponding to each detection object. When the detection object is illuminated, the light output by the detection object is directed to the receiving plate 73, and a second light spot projection is formed on the receiving plate 73. If the position of the second light spot projection coincides with the standard position on the target position map 74, it means that the position accuracy of the detection object corresponding to the second light spot projection meets the requirements. If the position of the second light spot projection does not coincide with the standard position on the target position map 74, it means that the position accuracy of the detection object corresponding to the second light spot projection does not meet the requirements. At this time, the position of the stacking unit 2 corresponding to the second light spot projection should be adjusted so that the position of the second light spot projection coincides with the standard position. Exemplarily, the stacking unit 2 can be adjusted by moving it with tweezers, or the position of the stacking unit 2 can be adjusted with the help of other tools.

[0214] There will be cumulative tolerances in the stacking process of multiple stacking units 2. Although the position of each stacking unit 2 has been calibrated using a position calibration device 6 or a film 9, calibration using a position calibration device and a film are both physical calibration methods and can only perform rough positioning. Therefore, it is also necessary to use the above-mentioned spot detection device 7 to accurately position the position of the optical fiber to reduce the adverse effects of the cumulative tolerance and improve the position accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0215] In a second aspect, the present application provides an optical fiber assembly, which is formed by a stacking unit manufactured according to the manufacturing method of the first aspect. Fig.16 The optical fiber assembly includes a plurality of first support columns 1 for supporting optical fibers, each of which is provided at its center with a center hole 11 penetrating through both ends of the first support column 1, and each center hole 11 is provided with an optical fiber. Exemplarily, the material of the first support column 1 can be any one of plastic, ceramic, glass and metal, and each first support column 1 can be bonded together by an adhesive (such as glue, etc.).

[0216] In some implementations of this application, reference Fig.17 The cross-sectional shape of the first support column 1 is circular (eg Fig.17 (a)), equilateral triangle (as shown in Fig.17 (b)), rectangle (as shown Fig.17 (c)), regular pentagon (as shown Fig.17 (d)), regular hexagon (as shown Fig.17 (e)) and the scalene hexagon (as Fig.17 (f)). In actual production, first support columns 1 of different shapes can be selected according to actual conditions. For example, FIG28(a) shows a schematic diagram of first support columns 1 with regular hexagonal cross sections arranged in a chessboard shape, and FIG28(b) shows a schematic diagram of first support columns 1 with regular hexagonal cross sections arranged in a honeycomb shape.

[0217] In a third aspect, the present application provides an optical fiber assembly, which is manufactured according to the manufacturing method of the first aspect. Fig.11 The optical fiber assembly includes: a plurality of stacking units 2, each stacking unit 2 includes a plurality of first support columns 1 for supporting optical fibers, a center hole 11 penetrating through both ends of the first support column 1 is provided at the center of each first support column 1, and an optical fiber is provided in each center hole 11.

[0218] When there are a large number of optical fibers in the optical fiber assembly, during the production process, multiple first support columns 1 with optical fibers disposed therein may be arranged and combined to form a stacking unit 2, the position accuracy between the optical fibers in a single stacking unit 2 may be adjusted, and then the optical fibers in a single stacking unit 2 may be bonded together using an adhesive. Subsequently, multiple stacking units 2 may be arranged and combined to form an optical fiber assembly, and the position accuracy between the stacking units 2 may be adjusted, and then the stacking units 2 may be bonded together using an adhesive. By adjusting the position accuracy twice, the position accuracy of the optical fibers may still meet the requirements when there are a large number of optical fibers, and the operation is easy.

[0219] In some implementations of the present application, referring to FIG. 10( b), each stacking unit 2 is arranged in a honeycomb shape, and a second support column 3 is provided in the gap between each stacking unit 2. The structure and size of the second support column 3 are the same as those of the first support column 1. An optical fiber is inserted into the center hole of each second support column 3, and each first support column 1 and each second support column 3 are arranged in a honeycomb shape as a whole.

[0220] In some implementations of this application, reference Fig.11 , between each stacking unit 2, and between each first support column 1 located in the same stacking unit 2, they are arranged in a rectangular array.

[0221] In some implementations of this application, reference Fig.17 The cross-sectional shape of the first support column 1 is circular (eg Fig.17 (a)), equilateral triangle (as shown in Fig.17 (b)), rectangle (as shown Fig.17 (c)), regular pentagon (as shown Fig.17 (d)), regular hexagon (as shown Fig.17 (e)) and the scalene hexagon (as Fig.17 (f)). In actual production, first support columns 1 of different shapes can be selected according to actual conditions. For example, FIG28(a) shows a schematic diagram of first support columns 1 with regular hexagonal cross sections arranged in a chessboard shape, and FIG28(b) shows a schematic diagram of first support columns 1 with regular hexagonal cross sections arranged in a honeycomb shape.

[0222] In some implementations of the present application, referring to FIG. 9(a) and FIG. 9(b), the optical fiber assembly further includes a fixing frame 4, which is used to fix each stacking unit 2. Specifically, the fixing frame 4 includes a concave frame 41 and a pressure strip 42. The concave frame 41 is used to accommodate each stacking unit 2 so that each stacking unit 2 can be inserted into the concave frame 41 in a direction perpendicular to the concave frame 41, and a second opening 411 is provided on one side of the concave frame 41. The pressure strip 42 is provided on the second opening 411, and the pressure strip 42 is detachably connected to the concave frame 41. The pressure strip 42 can close the second opening 411 to constrain the stacking unit 2 inserted into the fixing frame 4, and limit the stacking unit 2 from moving in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the stacking unit 2. Exemplarily, the pressure strip 42 can be connected to the concave frame 41 by bolts.

[0223] The present application assembles each stacking unit 2 in a fixed frame 4, and each stacking unit 2 and the fixed frame 4 can together form a high-precision large-array optical fiber assembly. In some implementations of the present application, a coupling element coupled to the optical fiber assembly is provided with a positioning hole, and a concave frame 41 is provided with guide holes 412, and the number of guide holes 412 is the same as the number of positioning holes. When the optical fiber assembly is coupled to the coupling element, the position of each guide hole 412 corresponds to the position of each positioning hole one by one, and the operator can insert the positioning column into the corresponding positioning hole and guide hole 412 to use the positioning column to position the optical fiber assembly and the coupling element, thereby improving the positioning accuracy and facilitating the coupling of the optical fiber and the coupling element. Exemplarily, the coupling element can be a lens array.

[0224] In a fourth aspect, the present application provides an optical communication device, including any optical fiber assembly in the second aspect or the third aspect. The present application does not limit the specific type of optical communication device, and any optical communication device including any optical fiber assembly in the second aspect or the third aspect falls within the protection scope of the present application. Exemplarily, the optical communication device can be an optical switch, a surface transmitter, a surface detector, or a Mems OXC.

[0225] In a fifth aspect, the present application provides a retaining device 5 for implementing the first aspect of retaining the combination of the plurality of arranged first support columns 1 together. Referring to FIG. 3(a), FIG. 3(b) and FIG. 3(c), the retaining device 5 includes a retaining member, on which a third opening 51 is provided, the third opening 51 passes through the retaining member, and the third opening 51 is used to accommodate each first support column 1 so that each first support column 1 can be inserted into the third opening 51 in a direction perpendicular to the third opening 51. Each first support column 1 inserted into the third opening 51 constitutes a stacking unit 2, and the shape of the third opening 51 at least partially matches the shape of the outer contour of the stacking unit 2 to limit the movement of each first support column 1 in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the first support column 1.

[0226] In some implementations of the present application, referring to FIG. 5(a) and FIG. 5(b), each first support column 1 inserted into the third opening 51 is arranged in a honeycomb shape, the retainer is annular, and a plurality of first protrusions 52 are provided on the circumferential surface of the third opening 51, and each first protrusion 52 is arranged along the circumference of the third opening 51. When the stacking unit 2 is inserted into the third opening 51, each first protrusion 52 is respectively located between two adjacent first support columns 1 on the outer side of the stacking unit 2 and contacts the first support column 1, so as to limit the first support column 1 in contact therewith to move in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the first support column 1.

[0227] In some implementations of the present application, referring to FIG. 6(a) and FIG. 6(b), each first support column 1 is arranged in a checkerboard shape, the retaining member is in a plate shape, and a plurality of second protrusions 53 are provided on the side wall of the third opening 51. When the stacking unit 2 is inserted into the third opening 51, each second protrusion 53 is respectively located between two adjacent first support columns 1 on the outer side of the stacking unit 2 and contacts the first support column 1, so as to limit the first support column 1 in contact with it to move in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the first support column 1.

[0228] In some implementations of the present application, referring to Figures 5(a), 5(b), 6(a) and 6(b), a plurality of threaded holes 54 are provided on the side wall of the third opening 51, and a screw 55 is provided in each threaded hole 54. The screw 55 is threadedly connected to the threaded hole 54. When the screw 55 is tightened, each screw 55 can abut against a first support column 1 inserted into the third opening 51 to adjust the position of the first support column 1.

[0229] Specifically, when the first support column 1 needs to be moved toward the center of the third opening 51, the corresponding screw 55 only needs to be tightened inwards, and the screw 55 can apply a force to the first support column 1. The first support column 1 moves or elastically deforms under the squeezing action of the screw 55, so that the optical fiber inside the first support column 1 moves toward the center of the third opening 51. When the first support column 1 needs to be moved away from the center of the third opening 51, the corresponding screw 55 only needs to be loosened outwards, and the first support column 1 can restore its elastic deformation when the squeezing force is lost, so that the optical fiber inside the first support column 1 moves away from the center of the third opening 51.

[0230] In a sixth aspect, the present application provides a position calibration device 6 for implementing the first aspect to calibrate the position accuracy of each stacking unit 2 and each second support column 3. Fig.12 The position calibration device 6 is in the shape of a plate, and is provided with a plurality of first openings 61. The position arrangement of each first opening 61 is the same as the position arrangement of the first support column 1. The diameter of the first opening 61 is equal to the diameter of the second column 13, and each first opening 61 can be simultaneously sleeved on a plurality of second columns 13. When a plurality of second columns 13 can be simultaneously inserted into the first openings 61 corresponding thereto, it indicates that the position accuracy of the stacking unit 2 or the second support column 3 corresponding to each second column 13 meets the requirements. When a second column 13 among the plurality of second columns 13 cannot be inserted into the first opening 61 corresponding thereto, it indicates that the position accuracy of the stacking unit 2 or the second support column 3 corresponding to the second column 13 does not meet the requirements. At this time, the position of the stacking unit 2 or the second support column 3 corresponding to the second column 13 needs to be adjusted so that the second column 13 can be inserted into the first opening 61 corresponding thereto.

[0231] In the seventh aspect, the present application provides a light spot detection device 7 for performing light spot detection on a first support column 1 or a second support column 3 including an optical fiber. Referring to FIG. 4(a) and FIG. 4(b), the light spot detection device 7 includes a collimator 71, a focusing lens 72 and a receiving plate 73 which are sequentially arranged along the direction of light emission in the optical fiber (as shown in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 4(a)). Among them, the collimator 71 is used to collimate the light, the focusing lens 72 is used to focus the light, the receiving plate 73 is perpendicular to the light, and the receiving plate 73 is used to receive the light so that the light can form a light spot projection on the receiving plate 73. A target position map 74 is provided on the receiving plate 73, and the target position map 74 is marked with the standard position of each light spot projection so that the actual position of the light spot projection can be compared with the standard position. When the position of the first light spot projection coincides with the standard position, it means that the position accuracy of the optical fiber corresponding to the first light spot projection meets the requirements. When the position of the first light spot projection does not coincide with the standard position, it means that the position accuracy of the optical fiber corresponding to the first light spot projection does not meet the requirements. At this time, the position of the first support column 1 or the second support column 3 corresponding to the first light spot projection needs to be adjusted so that the position of the first light spot projection coincides with the standard position.

[0232] There is usually a cumulative tolerance in the stacking process of the first support column 1 and the second support column 3. The present application detects the position accuracy of the optical fiber by using the light spot detection device 7, and adjusts the position of the first support column 1 or the second support column 3 according to the detection result, so as to ensure that the position accuracy of the optical fiber meets the requirements, thereby improving the qualified rate of the optical fiber assembly.

[0233] In an eighth aspect, the present application provides a coupling method of an optical fiber assembly, for coupling the optical fiber assembly in the second aspect with a lens array 8, wherein the lens array 8 includes a plurality of lenses 81, and the coupling method includes:

[0234] The optical fiber in each first support column 1 is coupled to a lens 81, such as Fig.18 As shown, the first support columns 1 are then combined to form a coupling element between the optical fiber assembly and the lens array;

[0235] Alternatively, each optical fiber in the assembled optical fiber assembly 10 is coupled to each lens 81 in the lens array 8 at the same time, as shown in FIG. 20( a ) and FIG. 20( b ).

[0236] In a ninth aspect, the present application provides a coupling method of an optical fiber assembly, for coupling the optical fiber assembly in the third aspect with a lens array 8, wherein the lens array 8 includes a plurality of lens units 82, each lens unit 82 includes a plurality of lenses 81, and the coupling method includes:

[0237] The optical fiber in each first support column 1 is coupled to a lens 81, such as Fig.18As shown, the first support columns 1 are then combined to form a coupling element between the optical fiber assembly and the lens array;

[0238] Or, the optical fibers in a stacking unit 2 are coupled to the lenses 81 in a lens unit 82 at the same time, as shown in FIG. 19( a) and FIG. 19( b), and then the stacking units 2 are combined to form a coupling element of the optical fiber assembly and the lens array;

[0239] Alternatively, each optical fiber in the assembled optical fiber assembly 10 is coupled to each lens 81 in the lens array 8 at the same time, as shown in FIG. 20( a ) and FIG. 20( b ).

[0240] The above three coupling methods each have different advantages: by first coupling the optical fiber in each first support column 1 with a lens 81 respectively, and then combining the first support columns 1 to form a coupling element between the optical fiber assembly and the lens array 8, the coupling difficulty between the optical fiber assembly and the lens array 8 can be reduced. By simultaneously coupling the optical fibers in the combined optical fiber assembly 10 with the lenses 81 in the lens array 8, the coupling efficiency can be improved. By simultaneously coupling the optical fibers in a stacking unit 2 with the lenses 81 in a lens unit 82, and then combining the stacking units 2, the advantages of the above two methods can be combined. In actual application, the operator can choose a suitable coupling method according to the size of the optical fiber assembly and the specific actual situation.

[0241] Compared with the optical fiber assembly in some other embodiments, the embodiment of the present application has better effects. The following describes some other embodiments through several comparative examples, so that those skilled in the art can better understand the differences and beneficial effects of the embodiment of the present application and other embodiments.

[0242] Comparative Example 1

[0243] Referring to Figures 21(a) and 21(b), the optical fiber assembly provided in this comparative example includes a silicon wafer 201, and a plurality of microholes 202 are provided on the silicon wafer 201, and an optical fiber is inserted into each microhole 202. Exemplarily, each microhole 202 can be arranged in a rectangular array. In this comparative example, a large number of optical fibers can be installed on the silicon wafer 201, which has the characteristics of large optical fiber capacity and high integration. However, since the silicon wafer 201 is limited by the semiconductor process, its thickness will be relatively thin, so the length of the microhole 202 is relatively small, which will result in poor installation stability of the optical fiber. In addition, the process of the optical fiber assembly in this comparative example is complicated and the cost is high, and it is necessary to fill all the microholes 202 with optical fibers, and then grind and coat the entire assembly. During this process, as long as one optical fiber has poor processing such as grinding and coating, it will affect the integrity and quality of the entire connector.

[0244] Compared with the comparative example 1, the embodiment of the present application uses the first support column 1 to fix the optical fiber. Since the length of the first support column 1 is longer, the depth of the central hole 11 is also longer, which can improve the stability of the optical fiber installation. In addition, the embodiment of the present application can grind and coat the support columns with optical fibers installed one by one, and then arrange them in combination, so that unqualified optical fibers can be partially repaired, and the integrity and quality of the entire connector will not be affected due to poor processing such as grinding and coating of a certain optical fiber.

[0245] Comparative Example 2

[0246] Referring to Figures 22(a) and 22(b), the optical fiber assembly provided in this comparative example includes a plurality of fixing bars 301 stacked in sequence in the vertical direction, each of the fixing bars 301 is provided with a plurality of slots 302 spaced apart along the extending direction of the fixing bars 301, the slots 302 are V-shaped, and each of the slots 302 is provided with an optical fiber 100. In this comparative example, the positioning accuracy of the optical fibers on the same fixing bar 301 is relatively high, but the positioning between each layer of fixing bars 301 is relatively difficult, so the positioning accuracy of the optical fibers is low. Compared with comparative example 2, the embodiment of the present application arranges the first support column 1 with the optical fiber disposed therein as an independent individual unit, which can facilitate the adjustment of the position of the first support column 1 so that the optical fiber can be aligned with the coupling object, thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0247] Comparative Example 3

[0248] refer to Fig.23 The optical fiber assembly provided in this comparative example includes a plurality of stacked optical fibers 100, and the outer portion of the optical fibers 100 is wrapped with a binding member 401 to bind and fix the optical fibers 100. In this method, the positions of the optical fibers 100 are random and cannot be precisely positioned and arranged. Compared with comparative example 3, the embodiment of the present application can precisely position and arrange the optical fibers by arranging the first support column 1, thereby improving the position accuracy of the optical fibers.

[0249] Comparative Example 4

[0250] refer to Fig.24The optical fiber assembly provided in this comparative example includes a frame 501 and a plurality of optical fibers 100 disposed in the frame 501, and each optical fiber 100 is arranged in a tight rectangular array in the frame 501. In this comparative example, each optical fiber 100 must be tightly stacked without gaps, so the spacing between the optical fibers 100 cannot be adjusted at will, and the scalability is poor. In addition, the optical fibers 100 will produce a large cumulative tolerance during the stacking process, and each optical fiber 100 is easily deformed due to extrusion, resulting in poor positioning accuracy. Compared with comparative example four, the implementation method of the present application can assemble connectors with different numbers of optical fibers and optical fiber densities by adjusting the number and density of the first support column 1. It has strong scalability and is easy to adjust the position of the first support column 1. The optical fiber will not be squeezed in the first support column 1, thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0251] Comparative Example 5

[0252] refer to Fig.25 The optical fiber assembly provided in this comparative example includes a plurality of stacked optical fibers 100, each optical fiber 100 forming a two-dimensional optical fiber array, the bottom optical fiber is fixed on a bottom substrate with a V-groove, the optical fibers on the upper layer are tangent to the optical fibers on the lower layer, and each layer of optical fibers is stacked upward in sequence, and the top layer of optical fibers is covered with a top substrate with a V-groove, and the optical fiber array is clamped between the top substrate and the bottom substrate. This comparative example is only applicable to scenarios where optical fibers are tightly stacked tangentially, the spacing between optical fibers cannot be adjusted at will, and the arrangement density is limited. In addition, the clamping force provided by the bottom substrate and the top substrate to the optical fiber is limited. When the number of optical fiber layers is large, the optical fiber is easy to loosen, so the scalability is poor. Compared with comparative example five, the optical fiber assembly provided in the embodiment of the present application can assemble connectors with different numbers and densities of optical fibers by adjusting the number and density of the first support column 1, and will not cause the optical fiber to loosen when the number of optical fiber layers is large, so the scalability is strong.

[0253] Comparative Example 6

[0254] refer to Fig.26 The optical fiber assembly provided in this comparative example includes a plurality of positioning posts 601, each positioning post 601 is arranged in a rectangular array structure, and adjacent positioning posts 601 are tangent to each other. An optical fiber 100 is provided in the gap between the four positioning posts 601, and the positioning posts 601 can limit the position of the optical fiber 100. In this comparative example, the positioning posts 601 have an outer diameter tolerance and a stacking cumulative tolerance, which may cause the position accuracy of the optical fiber 100 to be uncontrollable. Compared with comparative example six, the implementation method of the present application arranges the optical fiber in the first support post 1, which can facilitate the adjustment of the position of the first support post 1, so that the optical fiber can be aligned with the coupling object, thereby improving the position accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0255] Comparative Example 7

[0256] Referring to Figures 27(a), 27(b) and 27(c), this comparative example adopts the optical fiber preform positioning method. First, a micro-hole array with accurate positioning is prepared, as shown in Figure 27(a), that is, the capillary 701 is closely arranged into a cylindrical blank. Then, the cylindrical blank is drawn using the manufacturing process of the photonic crystal optical fiber preform, as shown in Figure 27(b). Finally, the cylindrical blank is drawn into an optical fiber preform 702, and then the drawn optical fiber preform 702 is cut into sheets, as shown in Figure 27(c), to obtain a positioning micro-hole plate, and finally an optical fiber is inserted into the micro-hole to form an optical fiber array. In the process of drawing the optical fiber preform 702 in this comparative example, the micro-hole may be deformed, which will result in low optical fiber positioning accuracy. Compared with comparative example seven, the embodiment of the present application processes the center hole 11 at the center of the first support column 1, and the center hole 11 will not be deformed. Therefore, the optical fiber inserted into the center hole 11 will not have a low position accuracy due to the deformation of the center hole 11, thereby improving the position accuracy of the optical fiber.

[0257] The above is an explanation of the implementation mode of the present application by specific specific embodiments. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present application from the contents disclosed in this specification. Although the description of the present application will be introduced in conjunction with some embodiments, this does not mean that the features of this application are limited to the implementation mode. On the contrary, the purpose of introducing the application in conjunction with the implementation mode is to cover other options or modifications that may be extended based on the claims of the present application. The present application can also be implemented without using these details. In addition, in order to avoid confusion or blurring the focus of the present application, some specific details are omitted in the description. It should be noted that the embodiments in the present application and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other without conflict.

[0258] In the embodiments of the present application, the terms "first", "second", and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features defined as "first", "second", and "third" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features.

[0259] In the embodiments of the present application, "and / or" is only a description of the association relationship of the associated objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the associated objects before and after are in an "or" relationship.

[0260] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "connection" can be a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. The directional terms mentioned in the embodiments of the present application, such as "left", "right", "inside", "outside", etc., are only referenced to the directions of the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the directional terms used are for better and clearer explanation and understanding of the embodiments of the present application, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the embodiments of the present application. "Multiple" means at least two.

[0261] In the description of the present application, it should be noted that the directions or positional relationships indicated by the terms "up", "down", "left", "right", etc. are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific direction, be constructed and operated in a specific direction, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the present application.

[0262] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "setting", "installation", "connection" and "fitting" should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection, or it can be an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be the internal communication of two elements. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0263] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications to the present application without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application. Thus, if these modifications and variations of the present application fall within the scope of the claims of the present application and their equivalents, the present application is also intended to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing an optical fiber component, characterized in that: include: Obtain a plurality of first support columns for supporting optical fibers, wherein a center hole penetrating through two ends of the first support column is provided at the center of each of the first support columns, and an optical fiber is inserted into each of the center holes; Combining a plurality of the first support columns according to a preset arrangement pattern; Using a holding device to hold the arranged plurality of first support columns together; Adhesive is added into the gaps between the plurality of target support pillars so as to make the plurality of target support pillars adhere to each other.

2. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The target support column is determined based on the support column spot detection; The support column light spot detection includes: Passing light through each of the optical fibers in each of the first supporting columns, and projecting the light output by each of the optical fibers onto a light spot detection device to form a first light spot projection; Using the light spot detection device to detect the position accuracy of each of the first light spot projections, and determine whether the position of each of the first light spot projections coincides with a standard position; When the position of the first light spot projection does not coincide with the standard position, adjusting the position of the first support column corresponding to the first light spot projection so that the position of the first light spot projection coincides with the standard position; The first supporting column corresponding to the overlapping first light spot projection is determined as the target supporting column.

3. The manufacturing method according to claim 2, characterized in that: The holding device is provided with an adjustment component, and the adjustment component is used to adjust the relative position between at least one first support column and other first support columns among the plurality of first support columns, and Adjusting the position of the first support column corresponding to the projection of the first light spot includes: The adjustment component is used to adjust the position of the first support column corresponding to the non-overlapping first light spot projection.

4. The manufacturing method according to claim 2, characterized in that: The combining of the plurality of first support columns according to the preset arrangement pattern comprises: making the first support columns extend in the same direction, and making the end surfaces of the first support columns at least on the first side aligned; The preset arrangement pattern includes a honeycomb shape and a chessboard shape. When the preset arrangement pattern is the honeycomb shape, the line connecting the centers of any four mutually adjacent first support columns forms a parallelogram; when the preset arrangement pattern is the chessboard shape, the line connecting the centers of any four mutually adjacent first support columns forms a rectangle.

5. The manufacturing method according to claim 4, characterized in that: When the preset arrangement pattern is the honeycomb shape, the number of the first support columns is 7, one of the first support columns is located at the center of the preset arrangement pattern, and the remaining 6 first support columns are arranged in sequence around the first support column located at the center; When the preset arrangement pattern is the chessboard shape, the number of the first support columns is 4 or 9, and the number of rows and columns of the first support columns is equal.

6. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: The holding device is removed from the plurality of first supporting columns on which the bonding of the target supporting columns is completed, thereby obtaining a stacking unit including the plurality of first supporting columns.

7. The manufacturing method according to claim 6, characterized in that: Also includes: Acquire a plurality of the stacking units; Using a fixing frame to shape and fix the plurality of stacking units; Adhesive is added into the gaps between the plurality of target stacking units so that the plurality of target stacking units are bonded to each other.

8. The manufacturing method according to claim 7, characterized in that: The fixing frame includes a concave frame and a pressure strip, and the fixing frame is used to shape and fix the plurality of stacking units, including: Arranging the stacking units according to the arrangement pattern of the first support columns in the stacking units, and inserting the stacking units into the concave frame; Determining that there is no gap between the stacking units inserted into the concave frame that is sufficient to insert a second support column, wherein the structure and size of the second support column are the same as those of the first support column; The pressure strip is arranged at the opening of the concave frame to fix each stacking unit so as to maintain the relative displacement between each stacking unit.

9. The manufacturing method according to claim 8, characterized in that: In a case where the preset arrangement pattern is a honeycomb shape, determining that there is no gap between the stacking units inserted into the concave frame that is sufficient to insert the second support column includes: Determining that there is a gap between each of the stacking units into which the second supporting column can be inserted; A second supporting column with an optical fiber disposed therein is inserted into the gap between the stacking units.

10. The manufacturing method according to claim 8, characterized in that: In a case where the preset arrangement pattern is a chessboard shape, determining that there is no gap between the stacking units inserted into the concave frame that is sufficient to insert the second support column includes: Determine that the stacking units are combined into a rectangular shape.

11. The manufacturing method according to claim 9, characterized in that: When the second supporting column is inserted into a gap between at least two stacking units, the position accuracy of the second supporting column inserted into the gap and each stacking unit adjacent to the second supporting column is calibrated.

12. The manufacturing method according to claim 11, characterized in that: The first support column and the second support column each include a first column and a second column sequentially arranged along the extension direction thereof, the second column is arranged at the rear end of the first column, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second column is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first column, and a step surface is provided between the second column and the first column; and The calibrating the position accuracy of each of the stacking units and each of the second supporting pillars comprises: Obtain a position calibration device, wherein the position calibration device is provided with a plurality of first openings, the shape of the first openings is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the second column, and the position arrangement of the first openings is the same as the preset arrangement pattern; Selecting a plurality of the second pillars as first calibration objects, wherein each of the first calibration objects comes from a different stacking unit, or comes from the stacking unit and the second supporting pillar, and inserting each of the first calibration objects into each of the first openings; If the first calibration object cannot be inserted into the first opening, the position of the stacking unit or the second supporting column corresponding to the first calibration object is adjusted so that the second column can be inserted into the first opening corresponding thereto.

13. The manufacturing method according to claim 11, characterized in that: Along the extension direction of the first support column and the second support column, the cross-sectional shapes of the first support column and the second support column at each location are the same and the areas are equal, and the calibrating the position accuracy of each stacking unit and each second support column includes: Obtain a film sheet, wherein the film sheet is made of a transparent material and is marked with a plurality of position marks of the center hole, and the position arrangement of each position mark is the same as the preset arrangement pattern; Selecting a plurality of the center holes as second calibration objects, wherein each of the second calibration objects comes from a different stacking unit, or comes from the stacking unit and the second support column; Covering the film on the front end surface of each of the second calibration objects, and aligning each of the second calibration objects with each of the position marks one by one; If the second calibration object is not aligned with the position mark, the position of the stacking unit or the second supporting column corresponding to the second calibration object is adjusted so that the second calibration object can be aligned with the corresponding position mark.

14. The manufacturing method according to claim 8, characterized in that: The target stacking unit is determined based on the stacking unit spot detection: The stacking unit spot detection includes: Selecting a plurality of the optical fibers as detection objects, wherein each of the detection objects comes from a different stacking unit, or comes from the stacking unit and the second supporting column; Passing light through each of the detection objects, and projecting the light output by each of the detection objects onto a light spot detection device to form a second light spot projection; Using the light spot detection device to detect the position accuracy of each second light spot projection, and determine whether the position of each second light spot projection coincides with the standard position; When the position of the second light spot projection does not coincide with the standard position, adjusting the position of the first support column or the second support column corresponding to the second light spot projection so that the position of the second light spot projection coincides with the standard position; The stacking unit corresponding to the overlapping second light spot projection is determined as the target stacking unit.

15. An optical fiber assembly, characterized in that: The optical fiber assembly includes a plurality of first support columns for supporting optical fibers. A center hole penetrating through two ends of the first support column is provided at the center of each of the first support columns, and an optical fiber is provided in each of the center holes.

16. The optical fiber assembly according to claim 15, wherein: The cross-sectional shape of the first support column is any one of a circle, an equilateral triangle, a rectangle, a regular pentagon and a hexagon.

17. An optical fiber assembly, characterized in that: The optical fiber assembly includes: a plurality of stacking units, each of the stacking units includes a plurality of first support columns for supporting optical fibers, a center hole penetrating through both ends of the first support column is provided at the center of each of the first support columns, and an optical fiber is provided in each of the center holes.

18. The optical fiber assembly according to claim 17, wherein: Each of the stacking units is arranged in a honeycomb shape, and a second support column is provided in the gap between each of the stacking units. The structure and size of the second support column are the same as those of the first support column. An optical fiber is inserted into the central hole of each of the second support columns, and the first support columns and the second support columns are arranged in a honeycomb shape as a whole.

19. The optical fiber assembly according to claim 17, wherein: The stacking units and the first supporting columns in the same stacking unit are arranged in a rectangular array.

20. The optical fiber assembly according to claim 17, wherein: The cross-sectional shape of the first support column is any one of a circle, an equilateral triangle, a rectangle, a regular pentagon and a hexagon.

21. The optical fiber assembly according to claim 17, wherein: It also includes a fixing frame, which is used to fix each of the stacking units, and the fixing frame includes: A concave frame, the concave frame is used to accommodate each of the stacking units, so that each of the stacking units can be inserted into the concave frame along a direction perpendicular to the concave frame, and a second opening is provided on one side of the concave frame; A pressure strip is arranged on the second opening, the pressure strip is detachably connected to the concave frame, and the pressure strip can close the second opening to restrict the stacking unit inserted in the fixed frame from being removed from the fixed frame.

22. The optical fiber assembly according to claim 21, wherein: A coupling element coupled to the optical fiber assembly is provided with a positioning hole, and the concave frame is provided with a guide hole. The number of the guide holes is the same as the number of the positioning holes. When the optical fiber assembly is coupled to the coupling element, the positions of the guide holes correspond one-to-one to the positions of the positioning holes.

23. An optical communication device, characterized in that: An optical fiber assembly comprising any one of claims 15 to 22.

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