Optical coupler, photoelectric conversion circuit module, and optical transceiver

Abstract

An optical coupler (1) is provided with: an optical fiber fixing section (4); a reflection unit (3) that changes the forward direction of the light (L) from the first direction (DIR1) to a second direction (DIR2) orthogonal to the first direction; and a holding section (2) that holds the optical fiber fixing section (4) and the reflecting section (3), respectively. The holding section (2) includes: a first side wall section (21); a second side wall part (22); and a third side wall section (23) positioned on the opposite side of the second side wall section (22) along the third direction (DIR3), with the optical fiber fixing section (4) and the reflection section (3) interposed therebetween, when viewed in the second direction. The optical fiber fixing part (4) and the reflecting part (3) are respectively connected with the second side wall part (22) and the third side wall part (23). At least one of a width (D1) of the first side wall section (21) in the first direction, a width (D2) of the second side wall section (22) in the third direction, and a width (D3) of the third side wall section (23) in the third direction increases continuously in the second direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an optical coupler, a photoelectric conversion circuit module and an optical transceiver. Background Art

[0002] As a previous invention regarding an optical coupler, for example, an optical module described in Patent Document 1 is known. The optical module described in Patent Document 1 includes a package, a microlens, an optical fiber connector, a positioning unit, and a fixing unit. The package carries at least one of a light emitting element and a light receiving element. The microlens is fixed to the package so as to be located on the optical path of the outgoing light from the light emitting element and / or the incident light to the light receiving element. The optical fiber connector has an optical path changing portion, which changes the direction of the optical path so that the light emitting element and / or the light receiving element and the optical fiber are optically coupled via the microlens. In addition, a V-groove row for mounting the optical fiber is formed in the optical fiber connector. The positioning unit mechanically positions the package and the optical fiber connector so that the light emitting element and / or the light receiving element and the optical fiber are optically coupled via the microlens and the optical path changing portion. The fixing unit fixes the optical fiber connector to the package so that it can be easily loaded and unloaded.

[0003] Prior Art Literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-65358 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In the optical module described in Patent Document 1, the microlens, the optical path changing part and the V-groove array are independent components and fixed by a fixing unit. Therefore, it is difficult to maintain the positioning accuracy, and the coupling efficiency between the light emitting element and / or the light receiving element, the microlens, the optical path changing part and the optical fiber may decrease.

[0008] Furthermore, since disturbance light enters from outside the optical module and mixes with the light emitted from the optical fiber, there is a possibility that the S / N ratio decreases.

[0009] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a photocoupler, a photoelectric conversion circuit module, and an optical transceiver that can suppress a decrease in coupling efficiency and a decrease in the S / N ratio.

[0010] Technical solutions to solve problems

[0011] An optical coupler according to one embodiment of the present invention is integrally formed of a material including glass and a filler mixed in the glass, wherein:

[0012] The optical coupler comprises:

[0013] An optical fiber fixing part, which fixes a plurality of optical fibers that emit light in a first direction respectively;

[0014] a reflecting unit configured to change a traveling direction of the light emitted from any one of the plurality of optical fibers from the first direction to a second direction orthogonal to the first direction; and

[0015] a holding part, respectively holding the optical fiber fixing part and the reflecting part,

[0016] The holding portion comprises:

[0017] The first side wall portion has a shape extending in a third direction orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction;

[0018] a second side wall portion connected to the first side wall portion and having a shape extending in the first direction; and

[0019] a third side wall portion connected to the first side wall portion and having a shape extending in the first direction, wherein the third side wall portion sandwiches the optical fiber fixing portion and the reflecting portion and is located on the opposite side of the second side wall portion along the third direction when viewed in the second direction;

[0020] The ends of the optical fiber fixing portion and the reflecting portion along the third direction are respectively connected to the second side wall portion and the third side wall portion,

[0021] At least any one of a width of the first side wall portion along the first direction, a width of the second side wall portion along the third direction, and a width of the third side wall portion along the third direction increases continuously toward the second direction.

[0022] Effects of the Invention

[0023] According to the optical coupler, the photoelectric conversion circuit module, and the optical transceiver according to the present invention, it is possible to suppress a decrease in coupling efficiency and a decrease in the S / N ratio. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the optical coupler 1 .

[0025] Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view of the optical coupler 1 and the optical fiber 5 .

[0026] Figure 3 It is a plan view of the optical coupler 1 viewed in the direction opposite to the second direction DIR2.

[0027] Figure 4 1 is a cross-sectional view of the optical coupler 1 and the optical fiber 5 showing a state in which disturbance light AL is incident on the optical coupler 1 .

[0028] Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view of the optical coupler 1 a and the optical fiber 5 .

[0029] Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view of the optical coupler 1 b and the optical fiber 5 .

[0030] Figure 7 It is a plan view of the optical coupler 1c viewed in the direction opposite to the second direction DIR2.

[0031] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 and the optical fiber 5 .

[0032] Fig. 9 It is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 and the optical fiber 5 .

[0033] Fig.10 It is a perspective view of the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 a and the optical fiber 5 .

[0034] Fig.11 It is a perspective view of the optical transceiver 100 and the optical fiber 5 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] [First embodiment]

[0036] [Structure of Photocoupler 1]

[0037] Hereinafter, a photocoupler 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the optical coupler 1 . Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the optical coupler 1 and the optical fiber 5. Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 In the figure, only the representative filler P1 among the plurality of fillers P1 is marked with a reference numeral. Figure 2 In the figure, the second side wall portion 22 and the third side wall portion 23 are omitted. Figure 3 It is a plan view of the optical coupler 1 viewed in the direction opposite to the second direction DIR2.

[0038] In this specification, directions are defined as follows. Figure 1As shown in the figure, the direction in which the optical fiber fixing part 4 and the reflecting part 3 are arranged in sequence is defined as the first direction DIR1. The direction in which the reflecting part 3 and the bottom 24 are arranged in sequence is defined as the second direction DIR2. The direction in which the second side wall part 22 and the third side wall part 23 are arranged in sequence is defined as the third direction DIR3. The first direction DIR1, the second direction DIR2 and the third direction DIR3 are orthogonal to each other. However, the first direction DIR1, the second direction DIR2 and the third direction DIR3 in this specification are directions defined for the convenience of explanation, and may not be consistent with the first direction DIR1, the second direction DIR2 and the third direction DIR3 when the optical coupler 1 is used.

[0039] The optical coupler 1 is a device for changing the direction of light emitted from an optical fiber and emitting it to a photoelectric conversion circuit or the like, or changing the direction of light emitted from a photoelectric conversion circuit or the like and emitting it to an optical fiber. In this embodiment, the case where the optical coupler 1 changes the direction of light L emitted from an optical fiber 5 from a first direction DIR1 to a second direction DIR2 is described. Figure 2 As shown, the optical coupler 1 has an incident surface S11 into which the light L emitted from the optical fiber 5 is incident, and an emission surface S12 from which the light L is emitted in the second direction DIR2. The structure of the optical coupler 1 will be described in detail below.

[0040] like Figure 1 As shown, the optical coupler 1 includes a holding portion 2, a reflecting portion 3, and an optical fiber fixing portion 4. The optical coupler 1 is integrally formed of glass containing a filler. In addition, the optical coupler 1 is a single component. Here, the so-called single component means a component having a structure that cannot be separated without breaking it. Therefore, for example, a component in which two resin sheets are fixed by screws is not a single component.

[0041] The optical coupler 1 is integrally formed of a material including glass M1 and a plurality of fillers P1 mixed in the glass M1. Glass is amorphous and is a material that exhibits a glass transition phenomenon. Examples of glass include simple oxide glass such as SiO2, B2O3, P2O5, GeO2, and AS3O3, silicate glass such as Li2O-SiO2, Na2O-SiO2, and K2O-SiO2, aluminosilicate glass such as Na2O-Al2O3-SiO2, and CaO-Al2O3-SiO2, borate glass such as Li2O-B2O3, and Na2O-B2O3, aluminoborate glass such as CaO-Al2O3-B2O3, and borosilicate glass such as Na2O-Al2O3-B2O3-SiO2.

[0042] The plurality of fillers P1 are metal oxide particles such as crystalline silica, amorphous silica, alumina, magnesium oxide, titanium oxide, etc. The plurality of fillers P1 each have a non-spherical shape. The plurality of fillers P1 are dispersed throughout the glass M1. In addition, the plurality of fillers P1 each may also have a spherical shape. In addition, the plurality of fillers P1 may be uniformly dispersed throughout the glass M1 or may be unevenly dispersed throughout the glass M1.

[0043] The holding part 2 holds the reflecting part 3 and the optical fiber fixing part 4, respectively. The holding part 2 is connected to the reflecting part 3 and the optical fiber fixing part 4, respectively. The holding part 2 includes a first side wall part 21, a second side wall part 22, a third side wall part 23, and a bottom part 24. In addition, the holding part 2 may not include the bottom part 24.

[0044] The first side wall portion 21 is connected to the second side wall portion 22, the third side wall portion 23 and the bottom portion 24. More specifically, the first side wall portion 21 has a shape extending in the third direction DIR3. Figure 2 As shown, the end face of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1 and the end face in the opposite direction to the first direction DIR1 (the first side face and the second side face arranged in the first direction DIR1) are inclined in a conical shape. In more detail, when observed in the third direction DIR3, the angle θ1 formed by the end face of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1 and the first direction DIR1 is an obtuse angle. In addition, when observed in the third direction DIR3, the angle θ2 formed by the end face of the first side wall portion 21 in the opposite direction to the first direction DIR1 and the first direction DIR1 is an acute angle. Therefore, the end face of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1 and the end face of the first side wall portion 21 in the opposite direction to the first direction DIR1 are not parallel. The first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21 along the first direction DIR1 increases continuously toward the second direction DIR2. As shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the third direction DIR3 is connected to the third side wall portion 23. The end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 is connected to the second side wall portion 22. Figure 2 As shown, the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the second direction DIR2 is connected to the bottom 24. In this embodiment, the filler P1 is exposed on the surface of the first side wall portion 21. In addition, the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1 and the end surface in the opposite direction of the first direction DIR1 (the first side surface and the second side surface arranged in the first direction DIR1) may not be inclined in a tapered shape. In addition, the filler P1 may not be exposed on the surface of the first side wall portion 21.

[0045] like Figure 1As shown, the second side wall portion 22 is connected to the first side wall portion 21, the bottom 24, the reflection portion 3 and the optical fiber fixing portion 4, respectively. In more detail, the second side wall portion 22 is located in the opposite direction of the third direction DIR3 than the third side wall portion 23. The second side wall portion 22 has a shape extending in the first direction DIR1. In the present embodiment, the end face of the second side wall portion 22 in the third direction DIR3 and the end face in the opposite direction of the third direction DIR3 (the third side face and the fourth side face arranged in the third direction DIR3) are inclined in a conical shape. In more detail, when observed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ3 formed by the end face of the second side wall portion 22 in the opposite direction of the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 is an acute angle. When observed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ4 formed by the end face of the second side wall portion 22 in the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 is an obtuse angle. The end face of the second side wall portion 22 in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 is not parallel to the end face of the second side wall portion 22 in the third direction DIR3. The second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22 along the third direction DIR3 becomes larger continuously as it moves toward the second direction DIR2. A portion of the end face of the second side wall portion 22 in the third direction DIR3 is connected to the end face of the first side wall portion 21 in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3, the reflection portion 3, and the optical fiber fixing portion 4, respectively. The end face of the second side wall portion 22 in the second direction DIR2 is connected to the bottom 24. In the present embodiment, the filler P1 is exposed on the surface of the second side wall portion 22. In addition, the end face of the second side wall portion 22 in the third direction DIR3 and the end face in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 (the third side face and the fourth side face arranged in the third direction DIR3) may not be inclined in a conical shape. In addition, the filler P1 may not be exposed on the surface of the second side wall portion 22.

[0046] The third side wall portion 23 is connected to the first side wall portion 21, the bottom portion 24, the reflection portion 3, and the optical fiber fixing portion 4, respectively. In more detail, the third side wall portion 23 is located closer to the third direction DIR3 than the second side wall portion 22. When viewed in the second direction DIR2, the third side wall portion 23 is located on the opposite side of the second side wall portion 22 along the third direction DIR3, sandwiching the reflection portion 3 and the optical fiber fixing portion 4. The third side wall portion 23 has a shape extending in the first direction DIR1. In the present embodiment, the end face of the third side wall portion 23 in the third direction DIR3 and the end face in the opposite direction of the third direction DIR3 (the third side face and the fourth side face arranged in the third direction DIR3) are inclined in a conical shape. In more detail, when viewed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ5 formed by the end face of the third side wall portion 23 in the opposite direction of the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 is an acute angle. When viewed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ6 formed by the end face in the third direction DIR3 of the third side wall portion 23 and the third direction DIR3 is an obtuse angle. Therefore, the end face in the third direction DIR3 of the third side wall portion 23 and the end face in the opposite direction to the third direction DIR3 of the third side wall portion 23 are not parallel. The third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23 along the third direction DIR3 becomes larger continuously toward the second direction DIR2. A portion of the end face in the opposite direction to the third direction DIR3 of the third side wall portion 23 is connected to the end face in the third direction DIR3 of the first side wall portion 21, the reflecting portion 3, and the optical fiber fixing portion 4, respectively. The end face in the second direction DIR2 of the third side wall portion 23 is connected to the bottom 24. In the present embodiment, the filler P1 is exposed on the surface of the third side wall portion 23. In addition, the end surface of the third side wall portion 23 in the third direction DIR3 and the end surface in the opposite direction to the third direction DIR3 (the third side surface and the fourth side surface arranged in the third direction DIR3) may not be inclined in a tapered shape. In addition, the filler P1 may not be exposed on the surface of the third side wall portion 23. In addition, it is sufficient that at least any one of the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21, the second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22, and the third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23 continuously increases toward the second direction DIR2.

[0047] In addition, in this embodiment, if Figure 3 As shown, at the same position in the second direction DIR2 , the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21 , the second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22 , and the third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23 are equal to each other.

[0048] like Figure 1As shown, the bottom 24 is connected to the first side wall portion 21, the second side wall portion 22, the third side wall portion 23, the reflective portion 3, and the optical fiber fixing portion 4, respectively. In more detail, the bottom 24 has a plate shape. In the present embodiment, the bottom 24 has a rectangular shape when viewed in the second direction DIR2. A portion of the end surface of the bottom 24 in the opposite direction to the second direction DIR2 is connected to the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the second direction DIR2, the end surface of the second side wall portion 22 in the second direction DIR2, the end surface of the third side wall portion 23 in the second direction DIR2, the reflective portion 3, and the optical fiber fixing portion 4, respectively. In addition, the bottom 24 may not have a rectangular shape when viewed in the second direction DIR2.

[0049] The optical fiber fixing portion 4 fixes five optical fibers 5, respectively. The optical fiber fixing portion 4 is connected to the second side wall portion 22, the third side wall portion 23, and the bottom portion 24, respectively. In more detail, the optical fiber fixing portion 4 has a plate shape extending in the third direction DIR3. The optical fiber fixing portion 4 is located between the second side wall portion 22 and the third side wall portion 23. In addition, the optical fiber fixing portion 4 is connected to the second side wall portion 22 and the third side wall portion 23, respectively. In more detail, the end portion of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 in the opposite direction along the third direction DIR3 is connected to the second side wall portion 22. In addition, the end portion of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 in the third direction DIR3 is connected to the third side wall portion 23, respectively. The end surface of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 in the second direction DIR2 is connected to the bottom portion 24.

[0050] Five grooves G having a V-shape when viewed in the first direction DIR1 are provided on the end surface of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 in the direction opposite to the second direction DIR2. The five grooves G have shapes extending in the first direction DIR1. The five grooves G are arranged in the third direction DIR3. Figure 2 As shown, each of the five optical fibers 5 is fixed in the five grooves G. Thus, the five optical fibers 5 are arranged in the third direction DIR3. In addition, the grooves G may not be provided on the end surface of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 in the direction opposite to the second direction DIR2. In addition, when viewed in the first direction DIR1, the five grooves G may each have a U-shape. In addition, the number of optical fibers 5 is not limited to five, and may be a plurality.

[0051] The five optical fibers 5 each have a shape extending in the first direction DIR1. The five optical fibers 5 each have an end face S5 for emitting light L. The normal direction of the end face S5 in each of the five optical fibers 5 is the first direction DIR1. The five optical fibers 5 each emit light L in the first direction DIR1. The end face S5 in each of the five optical fibers 5 is spaced apart from the reflector 3. Light L emitted from any of the five optical fibers 5 advances in the first direction DIR1 and is incident on the reflector 3.

[0052] like Figure 1As shown, the reflecting portion 3 is connected to the second side wall portion 22, the third side wall portion 23 and the bottom portion 24, respectively. The reflecting portion 3 is located between the second side wall portion 22 and the third side wall portion 23. In addition, the reflecting portion 3 is connected to the second side wall portion 22 and the third side wall portion 23, respectively. In more detail, the end of the reflecting portion 3 in the opposite direction along the third direction DIR3 is connected to the second side wall portion 22. In addition, the end of the reflecting portion 3 in the third direction DIR3 is connected to the third side wall portion 23. As shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, the reflecting unit 3 changes the traveling direction of the light L incident from the incident surface S11 from the first direction DIR1 to the second direction DIR2. The reflecting unit 3 includes a prism unit 31 and five condensing lenses 32. The number of condensing lenses 32 is not limited to five, and may be more than one.

[0053] The prism portion 31 is connected to the second side wall portion 22, the third side wall portion 23 and the bottom portion 24, respectively. In more detail, in the present embodiment, the prism portion 31 has a right-angled isosceles triangular prism shape extending in the third direction DIR3. The prism portion 31 has a prism portion incident surface S2, a prism portion reflecting surface S3, and a prism portion exit surface S4. In addition, the prism portion 31 may not have a right-angled isosceles triangular prism shape.

[0054] The prism portion incident surface S2 is an end surface in the opposite direction to the first direction DIR1 of the prism portion 31. Light L emitted from any of the five optical fibers 5 is incident on the optical coupler 1 from the prism portion incident surface S2. Therefore, the prism portion incident surface S2 is the incident surface S11 of the optical coupler 1. The light L incident on the optical coupler 1 from the prism portion incident surface S2 passes through the inside of the prism portion 31.

[0055] When viewed in the third direction DIR3, the prism portion reflecting surface S3 forms an angle of 135 degrees clockwise with respect to the first direction DIR1. The end of the prism portion reflecting surface S3 in the opposite direction to the second direction DIR2 is located in the opposite direction to the first direction DIR1 than the end of the prism portion reflecting surface S3 in the second direction DIR2. The prism portion reflecting surface S3 reflects the light L passing through the interior of the prism portion 31. Thus, the prism portion reflecting surface S3 changes the advancing direction of the light L from the first direction DIR1 to the second direction DIR2. In addition, the prism portion reflecting surface S3 corresponds to the "reflecting surface" of the present invention.

[0056] Five focusing lens portions 32 are provided on the prism portion reflecting surface S3. The five focusing lens portions 32 are arranged in the third direction DIR3. The surface of the focusing lens portion 32 is aspherical. In the present embodiment, the surface of the focusing lens portion 32 is ellipsoidal. The focusing lens portion 32 focuses the light L passing through the interior of the prism portion 31 and advancing along the first direction DIR1, while reflecting it toward the second direction DIR2. Thus, the focusing lens portion 32 changes the advancing direction of the light L from the direction including the component of the first direction DIR1 to the second direction DIR2. In addition, the surface of the focusing lens portion 32 may not be ellipsoidal.

[0057] The prism portion emission surface S4 is an end surface in the second direction DIR2 of the prism portion 31. The prism portion emission surface S4 is connected to the bottom portion 24. The prism portion emission surface S4 emits light L that is reflected by the prism portion reflection surface S3 or the condensing lens portion 32 and passes through the inside of the prism portion 31. The light L emitted from the prism portion emission surface S4 is incident on the bottom portion 24 from the end surface in the direction opposite to the second direction DIR2 of the bottom portion 24.

[0058] The light L incident on the bottom 24 from the end surface in the direction opposite to the second direction DIR2 of the bottom 24 passes through the inside of the bottom 24 and is emitted to the outside of the optical coupler 1 from the end surface S1 in the second direction DIR2 of the bottom 24. Therefore, the end surface S1 in the second direction DIR2 of the bottom 24 includes the emission surface S12 of the optical coupler 1.

[0059] Here, if Figure 3 As shown, in the end surface S1 on the second direction DIR2 of the bottom 24, the area overlapping with the reflecting portion 3 when viewed in the second direction DIR2 is defined as area A1. In addition, in the end surface S1 on the second direction DIR2 of the bottom 24, the area not overlapping with the reflecting portion 3 when viewed in the second direction DIR2 is defined as area A2. The end surface S1 on the second direction DIR2 of the bottom 24 includes both area A1 and area A2. The light L is emitted from the area A1 of the bottom 24 to the outside of the optical coupler 1. Therefore, the area A1 is the emission surface S12. When the optical coupler 1 is assembled to the optoelectronic conversion circuit module 10 described later, etc., the area A2 is the mounting surface S22 for mounting the optical coupler 1 on the substrate. The end surface S1 on the second direction DIR2 of the bottom 24 includes the emission surface S12 and the mounting surface S22. That is, the mounting surface S22 is in the same plane as the emission surface S12.

[0060] The optical coupler 1 is manufactured by irradiating ultraviolet light to a photosensitive glass paste containing glass M1 and a plurality of fillers P1 mixed in the glass M1. The photosensitive glass paste may contain additives such as a dispersant and a light absorber in addition to the glass M1 and the plurality of fillers P1 mixed in the glass M1.

[0061] In more detail, a translucent substrate having a first main surface and a second main surface arranged in a second direction DIR2 is prepared. Then, a photosensitive glass paste is applied to the first main surface of the translucent substrate. Then, a mask is arranged on the second main surface of the translucent substrate. Then, ultraviolet rays are irradiated to the second main surface of the translucent substrate to expose the photosensitive glass paste. Thus, the photosensitive glass paste is photosensitized. Then, the mask is removed from the second main surface of the translucent substrate, and the photosensitive glass paste is developed. In more detail, the photosensitive glass paste and the translucent substrate are immersed in a developer. Thus, in the case where the photosensitive glass paste is a negative type, the exposed portion of the photosensitive glass paste remains, and the unexposed portion is removed. Alternatively, in the case where the photosensitive glass paste is a positive type, the exposed portion of the photosensitive glass paste is removed, and the unexposed portion remains. After development, the photosensitive glass paste and the translucent substrate are cleaned and dried.

[0062] Finally, the light-transmitting substrate is removed from the developed photosensitive glass paste, and the photosensitive glass paste is cured. More specifically, the photosensitive glass paste is fired to cure the photosensitive glass paste. After the above steps, the optical coupler 1 is completed.

[0063] [Effect]

[0064] According to the optical coupler 1 , it is possible to suppress a decrease in coupling efficiency and suppress a decrease in the S / N ratio. First, the fact that the optical coupler 1 can suppress a decrease in coupling efficiency will be described.

[0065] The optical coupler 1 is integrally formed of a material including glass M1 and a filler P1 mixed in the glass M1. Therefore, in comparison with a case where each structure such as a microlens, an optical path changing portion, and a V-groove array is an independent member, the optical coupler 1 can always be arranged at the same position. Therefore, the positioning accuracy can be easily maintained, and a decrease in coupling efficiency can be suppressed.

[0066] In addition, the optical coupler 1 includes a holding portion 2, which includes a first side wall portion 21, a second side wall portion 22 connected to the first side wall portion 21, and a third side wall portion 23 connected to the first side wall portion 21 and located on the opposite side of the second side wall portion 22 along the third direction DIR3, sandwiching the reflector 3 and the optical fiber fixing portion 4 as viewed in the second direction DIR2. For example, when the temperature of the optical coupler 1 rises due to the heat generated by electronic components located around the optical coupler 1, the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflector 3 tend to deform due to thermal expansion. At this time, a force along the third direction DIR3 or a force in the opposite direction to the third direction DIR3 is applied to the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflector 3. In the optical coupler 1, the ends of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflector 3 along the third direction DIR3 are connected to the third side wall portion 23. Thus, for example, when the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflecting portion 3 are deformed in the third direction DIR3 due to thermal expansion, the deformation of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflecting portion 3 in the third direction DIR3 is blocked by the third side wall portion 23. Therefore, the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflecting portion 3 become less likely to deform in the third direction DIR3.

[0067] Furthermore, in the optical coupler 1, the ends of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflecting portion 3 in the opposite direction of the third direction DIR3 are connected to the second side wall portion 22. Thus, for example, when the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflecting portion 3 are to be deformed in the opposite direction of the third direction DIR3 due to thermal expansion, the deformation of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflecting portion 3 in the opposite direction of the third direction DIR3 is hindered by the second side wall portion 22. Therefore, it becomes difficult for the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflecting portion 3 to be deformed in the opposite direction of the third direction DIR3. Thus, according to the optical coupler 1, it is possible to suppress the deformation of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflecting portion 3 due to thermal expansion. By suppressing the deformation of the optical fiber fixing portion 4 and the reflecting portion 3 due to thermal expansion, it is possible to suppress the change in the positional relationship between the optical fiber 5 and the reflecting portion 3 and the reduction in coupling efficiency.

[0068] Next, the suppression of a decrease in the S / N ratio by the optical coupler 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the optical coupler 1 and the optical fiber 5 showing a state in which disturbance light AL is incident on the optical coupler 1. Figure 4 In the figure, only representative fillers P1 among the plurality of fillers P1 are denoted by reference numerals. Hereinafter, the first side wall portion 21 will be described as an example, but the same is true for the second side wall portion 22 and the third side wall portion 23.

[0069] For example, when the disturbance light AL is incident on the first side wall portion 21 from the first direction DIR1, a part of the disturbance light AL is reflected to the outside of the optical coupler 1 by the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1. However, a part of the disturbance light AL invades the inside of the first side wall portion 21 from the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1. Here, the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21 along the first direction DIR1 becomes larger continuously as it moves toward the second direction DIR2. In the present embodiment, when viewed in the third direction DIR3, the angle θ1 formed by the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1 and the first direction DIR1 is an obtuse angle. Therefore, the advancing direction of the disturbance light AL invading the inside of the first side wall portion 21 is changed from a direction parallel to the first direction DIR1 to a direction including a component in the second direction DIR2 due to refraction caused by the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1.

[0070] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when viewed in the third direction DIR3, the angle θ2 formed by the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the direction opposite to the first direction DIR1 and the first direction DIR1 is an acute angle. Therefore, the advancing direction of the disturbance light AL advancing inside the first side wall portion 21 is changed to be closer to the second direction DIR2 due to the refraction caused by the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the direction opposite to the first direction DIR1. In this way, according to the optical coupler 1, the advancing direction of the disturbance light AL is changed from a direction parallel to the first direction DIR1 to a direction including a component of the second direction DIR2, and as a result, the disturbance light AL can be suppressed from being incident on the reflecting portion 3. Thus, according to the optical coupler 1, it is possible to suppress the disturbance light AL from being mixed into the light L emitted from the optical fiber 5 and causing the S / N ratio to decrease. As a result, according to the optical coupler 1, it is possible to suppress the S / N ratio from decreasing.

[0071] As described above, according to the optical coupler 1 , it is possible to suppress a decrease in coupling efficiency and further suppress a decrease in the S / N ratio.

[0072] Furthermore, according to the optical coupler 1 , it is possible to further suppress a decrease in the S / N ratio. Hereinafter, the first side wall portion 21 will be described as an example, but the same is true for the second side wall portion 22 and the third side wall portion 23 .

[0073] In the first side wall portion 21, the filler P1 is exposed on the surface of the first side wall portion 21. Therefore, the filler P1 is exposed at the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1 and the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the opposite direction to the first direction DIR1. The disturbance light AL incident on the first side wall portion 21 from the first direction DIR1 is scattered by the filler P1 exposed at the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1. As a result, the intensity of the disturbance light AL invading the inside of the first side wall portion 21 is reduced. In addition, the disturbance light AL advancing inside the first side wall portion 21 is scattered by the filler P1 exposed at the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the opposite direction to the first direction DIR1. Therefore, the intensity of the disturbance light AL incident on the reflection portion 3 from the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the opposite direction to the first direction DIR1 is further reduced. Therefore, according to the optical coupler 1, it is possible to further suppress the disturbance light AL from mixing into the light L emitted from the optical fiber 5 and reduce the S / N ratio.

[0074] As described above, according to the optical coupler 1 , it is possible to suppress a decrease in coupling efficiency and further suppress a decrease in the S / N ratio.

[0075] [First Modification]

[0076] [Structure of Photocoupler 1a]

[0077] Hereinafter, an optical coupler 1 a according to a first modified example of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the optical coupler 1a and the optical fiber 5. Figure 5 In the figure, only the representative filler P1 among the plurality of fillers P1 is marked with a reference numeral. Figure 5 , the second side wall portion 22 and the third side wall portion 23 are omitted. In addition, regarding the structure of the optical coupler 1a according to the first modification, only the parts that are different from the structure of the optical coupler 1 according to the first embodiment will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0078] In this modification, the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1 and the end surface in the direction opposite to the first direction DIR1 (the first side surface and the second side surface arranged in the first direction DIR1) are not tapered. More specifically, when viewed in the third direction DIR3, the angle θ2 formed by the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the direction opposite to the first direction DIR1 and the first direction DIR1 is a right angle, while when viewed in the third direction DIR3, the angle θ1 formed by the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1 and the first direction DIR1 is an obtuse angle. In this modification, similarly to the optical coupler 1, the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21 increases continuously as it moves toward the second direction DIR2.

[0079] In addition, the end surface of the second side wall portion 22 in the third direction DIR3 and the end surface in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 (the third side surface and the fourth side surface arranged in the third direction DIR3) may not be inclined in a tapered shape. More specifically, when viewed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ4 formed by the end surface of the second side wall portion 22 in the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 may be a right angle, while, when viewed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ3 formed by the end surface of the second side wall portion 22 in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 may be an acute angle. In this case, similarly to the optical coupler 1, the second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22 increases continuously as it moves toward the second direction DIR2.

[0080] In addition, the end surface of the third side wall portion 23 in the third direction DIR3 and the end surface in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 (the third side surface and the fourth side surface arranged in the third direction DIR3) may not be inclined in a tapered shape. More specifically, when viewed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ5 formed by the end surface of the third side wall portion 23 in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 may be a right angle, while, when viewed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ6 formed by the end surface of the third side wall portion 23 in the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 may be an obtuse angle. In this case, similarly to the optical coupler 1, the third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23 increases continuously as it moves toward the second direction DIR2.

[0081] The above-described photocoupler 1 a also exhibits the same effects as those of the photocoupler 1 .

[0082] [Second Modification]

[0083] [Structure of Photocoupler 1b]

[0084] Hereinafter, an optical coupler 1 b according to a second modified example of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the optical coupler 1b and the optical fiber 5. Figure 6 In the figure, only the representative filler P1 among the plurality of fillers P1 is marked with a reference numeral. Figure 6 , the second side wall portion 22 and the third side wall portion 23 are omitted. In addition, regarding the structure of the optical coupler 1b according to the second modification, only the parts that are different from the structure of the optical coupler 1 according to the first embodiment will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0085] In this modification, the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1 and the end surface in the direction opposite to the first direction DIR1 (the first side surface and the second side surface arranged in the first direction DIR1) are not tapered. More specifically, when viewed in the third direction DIR3, the angle θ1 formed by the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the first direction DIR1 and the first direction DIR1 is a right angle, while, when viewed in the third direction DIR3, the angle θ2 formed by the end surface of the first side wall portion 21 in the direction opposite to the first direction DIR1 and the first direction DIR1 is an acute angle. In this modification, similarly to the optical coupler 1, the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21 increases continuously as it moves toward the second direction DIR2.

[0086] In addition, the end surface of the second side wall portion 22 in the third direction DIR3 and the end surface in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 (the third side surface and the fourth side surface arranged in the third direction DIR3) may not be inclined in a tapered shape. More specifically, when viewed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ3 formed by the end surface of the second side wall portion 22 in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 may be a right angle, while, when viewed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ4 formed by the end surface of the second side wall portion 22 in the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 may be an obtuse angle. In this case, similarly to the optical coupler 1, the second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22 increases continuously as it moves toward the second direction DIR2.

[0087] In addition, the end surface of the third side wall portion 23 in the third direction DIR3 and the end surface in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 (the third side surface and the fourth side surface arranged in the third direction DIR3) may not be inclined in a tapered shape. More specifically, when viewed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ6 formed by the end surface of the third side wall portion 23 in the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 may be a right angle, while, when viewed in the first direction DIR1, the angle θ5 formed by the end surface of the third side wall portion 23 in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 and the third direction DIR3 may be an acute angle. In this case, similarly to the optical coupler 1, the third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23 increases continuously as it moves toward the second direction DIR2.

[0088] The above-described photocoupler 1 b also exhibits the same effects as those of the photocoupler 1 .

[0089] [Third Modification]

[0090] [Structure of Photocoupler 1c]

[0091] Hereinafter, an optical coupler 1 c according to a third modified example of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 7It is a plan view of the optical coupler 1c viewed in the direction opposite to the second direction DIR2. In addition, regarding the structure of the optical coupler 1c according to the third modification, only the parts that are different from the structure of the optical coupler 1 according to the first embodiment will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0092] In this modification, at the same position in the second direction DIR2, the second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22 is wider than the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21. In addition, the third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23 is wider than the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21. In addition, in this modification, at the same position in the second direction DIR2, the second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22 is equal to the third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23. In addition, at the same position in the second direction DIR2, the second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22 may not be equal to the third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23.

[0093] In other words, when viewed in the second direction DIR2, the long side direction of the optical coupler 1c is the first direction DIR1. In addition, when viewed in the second direction DIR2, the short side direction of the optical coupler 1c is the third direction DIR3. The long side direction of the optical coupler 1c and the short side direction of the optical coupler 1c are orthogonal to each other. At the same position in the second direction DIR2, the width of the side wall portion having a shape extending in the long side direction (first direction DIR1) of the optical coupler 1c (the second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22 and the third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23) is wider than the width of the side wall portion having a shape extending in the short side direction (third direction DIR3) of the optical coupler 1c (the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21).

[0094] In addition, when the long side direction of the optical coupler 1c is the third direction DIR3 and the short side direction of the optical coupler 1c is the first direction DIR1 when viewed in the second direction DIR2, the width of the side wall portion having a shape extending in the long side direction (third direction DIR3) of the optical coupler 1c (the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21) is wider than the width of the side wall portion having a shape extending in the short side direction (first direction DIR1) of the optical coupler 1c (the second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22 and the third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23) at the same position in the second direction DIR2.

[0095] In the above optical coupler 1c, the same effect as the optical coupler 1 is also achieved. In addition, according to the optical coupler 1c, the decrease in coupling efficiency can be effectively suppressed. Hereinafter, the case where the long side direction of the optical coupler 1c is the first direction DIR1 and the short side direction of the optical coupler 1c is the third direction DIR3 when viewed in the second direction DIR2 is taken as an example for explanation, but the same is true for the case where the long side direction of the optical coupler 1c is the third direction DIR3 and the short side direction of the optical coupler 1c is the first direction DIR1 when viewed in the second direction DIR2.

[0096] If the side wall portion having a shape extending in the short side direction of the optical coupler 1c is deformed due to thermal expansion, the positional relationship between the optical fiber 5 and the reflecting portion 3 is further changed compared to the case where the side wall portion having a shape extending in the long side direction of the optical coupler 1c is deformed due to thermal expansion, and the coupling efficiency is further reduced.

[0097] Therefore, according to the optical coupler 1c, at the same position in the second direction DIR2, the second width D2 of the second side wall portion 22 is wider than the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21. Thus, the rigidity of the second side wall portion 22 can be made higher than the rigidity of the first side wall portion 21. In addition, the third width D3 of the third side wall portion 23 is wider than the first width D1 of the first side wall portion 21. Thus, the rigidity of the third side wall portion 23 can be made higher than the rigidity of the first side wall portion 21. By increasing the rigidity of the third side wall portion 23 connected to the first side wall portion 21, the deformation in the third direction DIR3 caused by the thermal expansion of the first side wall portion 21 can be inhibited by the third side wall portion 23 having high rigidity. In other words, the deformation in the short side direction of the optical coupler 1c caused by the thermal expansion of the first side wall portion 21 can be inhibited by the side wall portion having a shape extending in the long side direction of the optical coupler 1c and having high rigidity. Therefore, the first side wall portion 21 becomes less likely to deform in the short-side direction of the photocoupler 1 c.

[0098] Furthermore, by increasing the rigidity of the second side wall portion 22 connected to the first side wall portion 21, the deformation in the direction opposite to the third direction DIR3 caused by the thermal expansion of the first side wall portion 21 can be prevented by the second side wall portion 22 having high rigidity. Therefore, the optical fiber fixing portion 4, the reflecting portion 3, and the first side wall portion 21 become less likely to deform in the short side direction of the optical coupler 1c.

[0099] As can be seen from the above, according to the optical coupler 1c, it is possible to effectively suppress deformation of the first side wall portion 21 due to thermal expansion. By suppressing deformation of the first side wall portion 21 having a shape extending in the short side direction of the optical coupler 1c due to thermal expansion, it is possible to suppress further change in the positional relationship between the optical fiber 5 and the reflecting portion 3, thereby effectively suppressing a decrease in coupling efficiency.

[0100] [Fourth Modification]

[0101] [Structure of Photoelectric Conversion Circuit Module 10]

[0102] Hereinafter, a photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 according to a fourth modification will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 8 1 is a perspective view of the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 and the optical fiber 5. Figure 8 In the drawings, only representative optical couplers 1 , optical fibers 5 , and optical waveguides OW among the plurality of optical couplers 1 , the plurality of optical fibers 5 , and the plurality of optical waveguides OW are denoted by reference numerals. Fig. 9 FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 and the optical fiber 5. Fig. 9 In the drawings, only representative fillers P1 among the plurality of fillers P1 are denoted by reference numerals.

[0103] like Figure 8 As shown, the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 includes a plurality of optical couplers 1, a substrate 11, and a photoelectric conversion circuit 12. The plurality of optical couplers 1 and the photoelectric conversion circuit 12 are mounted on the substrate 11. When viewed in the second direction DIR2, the photoelectric conversion circuit 12 is arranged in the center of the substrate 11. When viewed in the second direction DIR2, the plurality of optical couplers 1 are arranged around the photoelectric conversion circuit 12. The plurality of optical fibers 5 are respectively fixed to the optical fiber fixing parts 4 of the plurality of optical couplers 1. In addition, the number of optical couplers 1 is not limited to a plurality, and may be one. In addition, when viewed in the second direction DIR2, the photoelectric conversion circuit 12 may not be arranged in the center of the substrate 11. In addition, when viewed in the second direction DIR2, the plurality of optical couplers 1 may not be arranged around the photoelectric conversion circuit 12. In addition, the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 may also include an optical coupler 1a, an optical coupler 1b, or an optical coupler 1c instead of the optical coupler 1.

[0104] The substrate 11 has a plate shape having two main surfaces arranged in the second direction DIR2. Fig. 9 As shown, an optical waveguide OW and a reflector M are provided inside the substrate 11. The optical waveguide OW is provided between the photoelectric conversion circuit 12 and each of the plurality of optical couplers 1. The reflector M is provided in the second direction DIR2 relative to the reflection unit 3. The light L emitted from the photoelectric conversion circuit 12 passes through the optical waveguide OW.

[0105] The plurality of photocouplers 1 are mounted on the principal surface located in the opposite direction to the second direction DIR2 of the two principal surfaces of the substrate 11. More specifically, the mounting surface S22 is mounted on the principal surface located in the opposite direction to the second direction DIR2 of the two principal surfaces of the substrate 11.

[0106] The photoelectric conversion circuit 12 is mounted on the main surface located in the opposite direction to the second direction DIR2 among the two main surfaces of the substrate 11. The photoelectric conversion circuit 12 converts the light emitted from the optical coupler 1 into an electric signal, or converts the electric signal into the light incident on the optical coupler 1. The case where the photoelectric conversion circuit 12 converts the light emitted from the optical coupler 1 into an electric signal is described.

[0107] The light L emitted from any of the five optical fibers 5 is incident on the incident surface S11 of the optical coupler 1, and the advancing direction is changed from the first direction DIR1 to the second direction DIR2 by the optical coupler 1, and is emitted from the exit surface S12 of the optical coupler 1. The light L emitted from the exit surface S12 of the optical coupler 1 advances along the second direction DIR2 in the optical waveguide OW. The light L advancing along the second direction DIR2 in the optical waveguide OW is reflected by the reflector M. As a result, the advancing direction of the light L is changed from the second direction DIR2 to the first direction DIR1. Then, the light L is incident on the photoelectric conversion circuit 12. The photoelectric conversion circuit 12 converts the light L incident on the photoelectric conversion circuit 12 into an electrical signal.

[0108] The above-described photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 also exhibits the same effects as those of the photocoupler 1 .

[0109] [Fifth Modification]

[0110] [Structure of Photoelectric Conversion Circuit Module 10a]

[0111] Hereinafter, a photoelectric conversion circuit module 10a according to a fifth modification will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig.10 1 is a perspective view of the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10a and the optical fiber 5. Fig.10 In the figure, only the representative optical couplers 1 and optical fibers 5 among the plurality of optical couplers 1 and the plurality of optical fibers 5 are marked with reference numerals. In addition, regarding the optoelectronic conversion circuit module 10a involved in the fifth modification, only the parts different from the optoelectronic conversion circuit module 10 involved in the fourth modification are described, and the rest are omitted.

[0112] The photoelectric conversion circuit module 10a is different from the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 in that the substrate 11 is a semiconductor substrate and the substrate 11 includes a plurality of light emitting portions 13. The number of the light emitting portions 13 is not limited to a plurality and may be one.

[0113] The plurality of light emitting portions 13 are, for example, surface light emitting elements formed on the main surface located in the opposite direction of the second direction DIR2 among the two main surfaces of the substrate 11. The plurality of light emitting portions 13 are, for example, VCSELs (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers). The plurality of light emitting portions 13 emit light L based on the electrical signal generated by the photoelectric conversion circuit 12. The light L emitted by the plurality of light emitting portions 13 is incident on each of the plurality of optical fibers 5 via the plurality of optical couplers 1.

[0114] The above-described photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 a also exhibits the same effects as those of the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 .

[0115] [Sixth Modification]

[0116] [Structure of the optical transceiver 100]

[0117] Hereinafter, the optical transceiver 100 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig.11 1 is a perspective view of the optical transceiver 100 and the optical fiber 5. Fig.11 In FIG. 1 , only representative optical fibers 5 among the five optical fibers 5 are denoted by reference numerals. In addition, regarding the optical transceiver 100 according to the sixth modification, only the parts different from the optoelectronic conversion circuit module 10a according to the fifth modification will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0118] The optical transceiver 100 is different from the optoelectronic conversion circuit module 10 a in that the number of the optical coupler 1 is one and the number of the light emitting portion 13 is one.

[0119] The light L emitted from the light emitting unit 13 is incident on the five optical fibers 5 via the optical coupler 1 , respectively. Alternatively, the light L emitted from the five optical fibers 5 is incident on the photoelectric conversion circuit 12 via the optical coupler 1 .

[0120] The optical transceiver 100 described above also exhibits the same effects as those of the optoelectronic conversion circuit module 10 a .

[0121] [Other embodiments]

[0122] The optical coupler of the present invention is not limited to the optical coupler 1, the optical coupler 1a, the optical coupler 1b and the optical coupler 1c, and can be modified within the scope of the gist thereof. In addition, the structures of the optical coupler 1, the optical coupler 1a, the optical coupler 1b and the optical coupler 1c can be arbitrarily combined.

[0123] The photoelectric conversion circuit module according to the present invention is not limited to the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 and the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10a, and can be modified within the scope of the gist thereof. In addition, the structures of the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10 and the photoelectric conversion circuit module 10a can be arbitrarily combined.

[0124] The optical transceiver according to the present invention is not limited to the optical transceiver 100 , and can be modified within the scope of the gist thereof.

[0125] The present invention has the following structure. (1)

[0127] An optical coupler is integrally formed of a material including glass and a filler mixed in the glass, wherein:

[0128] The optical coupler comprises:

[0129] An optical fiber fixing part, which fixes a plurality of optical fibers that emit light in a first direction respectively;

[0130] a reflecting unit configured to change a traveling direction of the light emitted from any one of the plurality of optical fibers from the first direction to a second direction orthogonal to the first direction; and

[0131] a holding part, respectively holding the optical fiber fixing part and the reflecting part,

[0132] The holding portion comprises:

[0133] The first side wall portion has a shape extending in a third direction orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction;

[0134] a second side wall portion connected to the first side wall portion and having a shape extending in the first direction; and

[0135] a third side wall portion connected to the first side wall portion and having a shape extending in the first direction, wherein the third side wall portion sandwiches the optical fiber fixing portion and the reflecting portion and is located on the opposite side of the second side wall portion along the third direction when viewed in the second direction;

[0136] The ends of the optical fiber fixing portion and the reflecting portion along the third direction are respectively connected to the second side wall portion and the third side wall portion,

[0137] At least any one of a width of the first side wall portion along the first direction, a width of the second side wall portion along the third direction, and a width of the third side wall portion along the third direction increases continuously toward the second direction. (2)

[0139] The optical coupler according to (1), wherein:

[0140] In the first side wall portion, the second side wall portion, or the third side wall portion, the filler is exposed on a surface. (3)

[0142] The optical coupler according to (1) or (2), wherein:

[0143] The first side surface and the second side surface of the first side wall portion arranged in the first direction are inclined in a tapered shape.

[0144] Alternatively, the third side surface and the fourth side surface of the second side wall portion or the third side wall portion, which are arranged in the third direction, are inclined in a tapered shape. (4)

[0146] The optical coupler according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein:

[0147] When viewed in the second direction, the first direction is the long side direction of the optical coupler.

[0148] When viewed in the second direction, the third direction is the short side direction of the optical coupler.

[0149] At the same position in the second direction, a width of the second side wall portion along the third direction and a width of the third side wall portion along the third direction are wider than a width of the first side wall portion along the first direction. (5)

[0151] The optical coupler according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein:

[0152] When viewed in the second direction, the third direction is the long side direction of the optical coupler.

[0153] When viewed in the second direction, the first direction is the short side direction of the optical coupler.

[0154] At the same position in the second direction, the width of the first side wall portion along the first direction is wider than the width of the second side wall portion along the third direction and the width of the third side wall portion along the third direction. (6)

[0156] A photoelectric conversion circuit module, comprising:

[0157] The optical coupler according to any one of (1) to (5);

[0158] substrate; and

[0159] A photoelectric conversion circuit is mounted on the substrate.

[0160] The photoelectric conversion circuit converts an electric signal into light incident on the photocoupler, or converts light emitted from the photocoupler into an electric signal. (7)

[0162] The photoelectric conversion circuit module according to (6), wherein:

[0163] The substrate is a semiconductor substrate, including a light emitting portion for emitting light,

[0164] The optical coupler is mounted on the substrate. (8)

[0166] An optical transceiver includes the optical coupler described in any one of (1) to (5).

[0167] Description of Reference Numerals

[0168] 1, 1a, 1b, 1c: Optocoupler;

[0169] 2: Holding part;

[0170] 3: Reflection part;

[0171] 4: Optical fiber fixing part;

[0172] 5: Optical fiber;

[0173] 10, 10a: photoelectric conversion circuit module;

[0174] 11: Substrate;

[0175] 12: Photoelectric conversion circuit;

[0176] 13: Light exit part;

[0177] 21: first side wall portion;

[0178] 22: second side wall portion;

[0179] 23: third side wall portion;

[0180] 24: bottom;

[0181] 31: Prism part;

[0182] 32: focusing lens part;

[0183] 100: optical transceiver;

[0184] A1, A2: area;

[0185] AL: Interference light;

[0186] D1: 1st width;

[0187] D2: 2nd width;

[0188] D3: 3rd width;

[0189] DIR1: Direction 1;

[0190] DIR2: direction 2;

[0191] DIR3: 3rd direction;

[0192] G: slot;

[0193] L: light;

[0194] M: reflector;

[0195] M1: Glass;

[0196] OW: optical waveguide;

[0197] P1: filler;

[0198] S1, S5: end surface;

[0199] S11: incident surface;

[0200] S12: exit surface;

[0201] S2: incident surface of prism;

[0202] S22: mounting surface;

[0203] S3: prism reflection surface;

[0204] S4: Prism exit surface.

Claims

1. An optical coupler, formed integrally from a material comprising glass and a filler mixed in the glass, wherein: The optical coupler comprises: An optical fiber fixing part, which fixes a plurality of optical fibers that emit light in a first direction respectively; a reflecting unit configured to change the traveling direction of the light emitted from any one of the plurality of optical fibers from the first direction to a second direction orthogonal to the first direction; and a holding part, respectively holding the optical fiber fixing part and the reflecting part, The holding portion comprises: The first side wall portion has a shape extending in a third direction orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction; a second side wall portion connected to the first side wall portion and having a shape extending in the first direction; and a third side wall portion connected to the first side wall portion and having a shape extending in the first direction, wherein the third side wall portion sandwiches the optical fiber fixing portion and the reflecting portion and is located on the opposite side of the second side wall portion along the third direction when viewed in the second direction; The ends of the optical fiber fixing portion and the reflecting portion along the third direction are respectively connected to the second side wall portion and the third side wall portion, At least any one of a width of the first side wall portion along the first direction, a width of the second side wall portion along the third direction, and a width of the third side wall portion along the third direction increases continuously toward the second direction.

2. The optical coupler according to claim 1, wherein: In the first side wall portion, the second side wall portion, or the third side wall portion, the filler is exposed on a surface.

3. The optical coupler according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The first side surface and the second side surface of the first side wall portion arranged in the first direction are inclined in a tapered shape. Alternatively, the third side surface and the fourth side surface of the second side wall portion or the third side wall portion, which are arranged in the third direction, are inclined in a tapered shape.

4. The optical coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: When viewed in the second direction, the first direction is the long side direction of the optical coupler. When viewed in the second direction, the third direction is the short side direction of the optical coupler. At the same position in the second direction, a width of the second side wall portion along the third direction and a width of the third side wall portion along the third direction are wider than a width of the first side wall portion along the first direction.

5. The optical coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: When viewed in the second direction, the third direction is the long side direction of the optical coupler. When viewed in the second direction, the first direction is the short side direction of the optical coupler. At the same position in the second direction, the width of the first side wall portion along the first direction is wider than the width of the second side wall portion along the third direction and the width of the third side wall portion along the third direction.

6. A photoelectric conversion circuit module, comprising: The optical coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 5; substrate; and A photoelectric conversion circuit is mounted on the substrate. The photoelectric conversion circuit converts an electric signal into light incident on the photocoupler, or converts light emitted from the photocoupler into an electric signal.

7. The photoelectric conversion circuit module according to claim 6, wherein: The substrate is a semiconductor substrate, including a light emitting portion for emitting light, The optical coupler is mounted on the substrate. 8 . An optical transceiver comprising the optical coupler according to claim 1 .

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