Manufacturing method of one-step molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly

Abstract

A method for manufacturing a one-step molded multi-optical-transmission-sheet assembly (100A) provided with a one-step molded multi-optical-transmission-sheet (10) and a housing member (20), a position reference part (25) provided in a housing member (20), and a reference structure (R) including a reference position mark (R1) corresponding to the position reference part (25), and a core position mark (R2) indicating an ideal position of each of core regions (11) with respect to the position reference part (25) are imaged. An image of the reference position mark (R1) and an image of the position reference part (25) are superimposed to form an adjusted image, one end of the multi-light transmission sheet (10) is accommodated in an arrangement hole (23) of an accommodating member (20), and a core region (11) exposed to the end surface at the end accommodated in the arrangement hole (23) is imaged. The position of the single-molded multi-optical-transmission sheet (10) relative to the housing member (20) is adjusted such that the position of each image of the core regions (11) captured matches the position of each core position mark (R2) corresponding to each position, and the single-molded multi-optical-transmission sheet (10) is fixed to the housing member (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for manufacturing a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly. Background Technology

[0002] In optical communication systems using existing optical fibers, ribbon cables are sometimes used. A ribbon cable has the following construction: multiple optical fibers, for example four, are arranged in parallel planes, completely covered by a resin ribbon layer to surround their outer perimeter, and further completely covered by a covering layer to further surround their outer perimeter. Such a ribbon cable has an MT connector installed at one end for connection to equipment or other ribbon cables.

[0003] To connect existing ribbon cables to other optical components and devices (including other ribbon cables), such as when installing an MT connector, the following steps are required: stripping away the resin ribbon layer and the overall coating, removing the optical fibers, and inserting one fiber into each hole formed in the connector housing of the MT connector. Therefore, the installation of MT connectors is cumbersome and time-consuming.

[0004] In contrast, the inventors of this invention have invented and disclosed a one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly and its manufacturing method. The one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet includes: a sheet-like coating containing plastic; and a plurality of optical transmission regions extending along the interior of the coating in the extending direction of the coating. Each optical transmission region has: a core region containing plastic; and a covering region containing plastic and surrounding the outer periphery of the core region. The plurality of optical transmission regions are arranged in a row, substantially parallel to each other, along the main surface of the coating. In the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet, the relative positional accuracy of the core regions is high. In this case, when installing the ferrule onto the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet, the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet is inserted into the ferrule's mounting hole and housed, and fixed together using adhesive or the like. In this case, it is not necessary to perform the cumbersome operation of stripping the overall coating, removing the optical fiber, and inserting one optical fiber into each hole formed in the connector housing of the MT connector, as is done in the case of installing an MT connector with a conventional ribbon core wire.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2021 / 049540 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] In a one-piece molded multi-beam transmission sheet, the relative positional accuracy of the core region is relatively high. However, according to the inventors' keen research, positional deviations of the core region in a one-piece molded multi-beam transmission sheet assembly can sometimes occur due to deviations in the position of the core region in the covering portion, tilting of the arrangement, or deviations from the design shape of the outer shape of the covering portion. Such positional deviations of the core region can potentially increase optical losses (connection losses) when optically connecting the one-piece molded multi-beam transmission sheet assembly with other optical elements.

[0010] The present invention is made in view of the above and aims to provide a method for manufacturing a one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly that can suppress the increase of connection loss even if there is a positional deviation of the core region.

[0011] Methods for solving problems

[0012] To address the aforementioned issues and achieve the objective, one aspect of the present invention is a method for manufacturing a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly. The one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly includes: a sheet-like covering portion containing plastic; and a plurality of light transmission regions, each extending along the extending direction of the covering portion within the covering portion, and each having a core region containing plastic and a covering region containing plastic and surrounding the outer periphery of the core region. The plurality of light transmission regions include: one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheets arranged in a row, substantially parallel to each other, along the main surface of the covering portion; and a receiving member that receives one end of each one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet in a placement hole. The manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly includes a position reference portion imaging step, which images a position reference portion disposed at a first position of the receiving member and a reference position mark disposed at a second position different from the first position, containing a reference position mark corresponding to the position reference portion. The process includes: a reference structure for photographing a core position mark indicating the ideal position of each of the core regions relative to the position reference portion; an adjustment image generation step to generate an adjusted image that is consistent with the image of the reference position mark and the image of the position reference portion; a receiving step to receive one end of the one-piece molded multi-beam transmission sheet into the configuration hole of the receiving member; a core region imaging step to photograph the core region where the one end of the one-piece molded multi-beam transmission sheet received in the configuration hole protrudes from the end face; a position adjustment step to adjust the relative position of the one-piece molded multi-beam transmission sheet relative to the receiving member so that the position of the image of each of the photographed core regions is consistent with the position of each of the core position marks corresponding to each of the core regions; and a fixing step to fix the one-piece molded multi-beam transmission sheet, after the position adjustment, to the receiving member.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] According to the present invention, even if there is a positional deviation of the core region in a one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly, the increase in connection loss can be suppressed. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the ferrule is shown.

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The front view of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly is shown.

[0018] Figure 4A This is a diagram illustrating an example of positional deviation of the core region in a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly.

[0019] Figure 4B This is a diagram illustrating an example of positional deviation of the core region in a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly.

[0020] Figure 4C This is a diagram illustrating an example of positional deviation of the core region in a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly.

[0021] Figure 4D This is a diagram illustrating an example of positional deviation of the core region in a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly.

[0022] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An explanatory diagram of the apparatus used in the manufacture of a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly.

[0023] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the manufacturing method of a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly.

[0024] Figure 7 This is an example of an image displayed on a screen.

[0025] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the manufacturing method of a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly.

[0026] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the manufacturing method of a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly.

[0027] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the manufacturing method of a one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly.

[0028] Figure 11A This is a schematic structural diagram of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly involved in Embodiment 2.

[0029] Figure 11B This is a schematic structural diagram of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly involved in Embodiment 2.

[0030] Figure 12A This is a schematic structural diagram of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly involved in Embodiment 3.

[0031] Figure 12B This is a schematic structural diagram of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly involved in Embodiment 3.

[0032] Figure 13A This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 4.

[0033] Figure 13B This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 4.

[0034] Figure 13C This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 4.

[0035] Figure 13D This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 4.

[0036] Figure 13E This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 4.

[0037] Figure 13F This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 4.

[0038] Figure 14A This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 5.

[0039] Figure 14B This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 5.

[0040] Figure 14C This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 5.

[0041] Figure 14D This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 5.

[0042] Figure 14E This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 5.

[0043] Figure 14F This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 5.

[0044] Figure 15A This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 6.

[0045] Figure 15B This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 6.

[0046] Figure 15C This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 6.

[0047] Figure 15D This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 6.

[0048] Figure 15E This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 6.

[0049] Figure 15F This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 6.

[0050] Figure 16A This is a schematic structural diagram of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 7.

[0051] Figure 16B This is a schematic structural diagram of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 7.

[0052] Figure 17 This is an explanatory diagram of the apparatus used in the manufacture of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly shown in Figure 16.

[0053] Figure 18A This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 8.

[0054] Figure 18B This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 8.

[0055] Figure 18C This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 8.

[0056] Figure 18D This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 8.

[0057] Figure 18E This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 8.

[0058] Figure 18F This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 8.

[0059] Figure 19A This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 9.

[0060] Figure 19B This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 9.

[0061] Figure 19C This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 9.

[0062] Figure 19D This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 9.

[0063] Figure 19E This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 9.

[0064] Figure 19F This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 9.

[0065] Figure 20 This is a schematic structural diagram of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 10. Detailed Implementation

[0066] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same or corresponding elements are appropriately labeled with the same symbols, and repeated descriptions are appropriately omitted. It should also be noted that the drawings are schematic, and the dimensional relationships of the elements may sometimes differ from reality. The drawings may also sometimes include portions with different dimensional relationships or ratios.

[0067] (Implementation Method 1)

[0068] Figure 1This is a schematic perspective view of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly, i.e., the cable with a ferrule, according to Embodiment 1. The cable 100 includes: a one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet, i.e., a multi-optical transmission sheet 10; a ferrule 20 as a receiving member; and, as an example, a fastening unit, an instant adhesive 30 as an adhesive. Figure 1 In the diagram, the long side direction is the direction in which the ferrule 20 extends, corresponding to the direction in which the multi-optical transmission sheet 10 extends in its unbent state. The height direction is perpendicular to the long side direction and corresponds to the height direction of the ferrule 20. The width direction is perpendicular to both the long side direction and the height direction and corresponds to the width direction of the ferrule 20.

[0069] The multi-light transmission sheet 10, like the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet described in Patent Document 1, includes multiple core regions 11, multiple covering regions 12, and a covered portion 13. The multiple core regions 11 and the multiple covering regions 12 constitute multiple light transmission regions. The light transmission regions are located inside the covered portion 13. Figure 1 The multi-optical transmission sheet 10 has 4 cores, with 4 core regions 11, 4 covering regions 12, and 4 optical transmission regions, but their number is not particularly limited. In addition, in the multi-optical transmission sheet 10, all optical transmission regions have the same structure, but they can also have more than one core and be different from the others.

[0070] The covering portion 13 contains plastic and has a sheet-like shape, extending along its long side (extension direction). Each light transmission area is provided extending along the extension direction and arranged in a row parallel to each other along the main surface of the covering portion. However, as long as it is within the allowable range of precision, they can be arranged approximately parallel. In addition, the covering portion 13 has, for example, a rounded corner shape in cross-section.

[0071] The core region 11 constituting the optical transmission region is a region with a circular cross-section containing plastic. The cladding region 12 constituting the optical transmission region contains plastic and is a region with a circular cross-section surrounding the outer periphery of the core region 11. The core region 11 and the cladding region 12 are formed approximately coaxially.

[0072] The core region 11 has a graded refractive index (GI) type (e.g., square distribution) refractive index distribution, and the refractive index of the cladding region 12 is lower than that of the core region 11. The light transmission region has such a refractive index distribution. Therefore, when light propagates in multiple modes in the light transmission region, the light propagates linearly in the fundamental mode and sinusoidally in higher-order modes. As a result, the light transmission region can suppress the propagation speed difference between modes and transmit pulsed light with less distortion. The diameter of the core region 11 is, for example, 50 μm or 62 μm, and is not particularly limited. Furthermore, for example, the diameter of the core region 11 can be controlled to be 10 μm or less, which can also satisfy the single-mode condition. In addition, there is no limitation to the so-called double-layer cladding structure, in which a layer with a lower refractive index than that of the cladding region 12 is further provided on the outside of the cladding region 12. Furthermore, when the length of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 is sufficiently short, sufficient transmission bandwidth can be ensured even if the refractive index distribution is not set to GI type. In this case, the shape of the refractive index distribution can also be of the step refractive index (SI) type or any other arbitrary shape.

[0073] Furthermore, the core regions 11 are arranged at high precision equal intervals. Here, the distance between the core regions 11 is the distance between the central axes of adjacent core regions 11. However, as long as it is within the allowable range of precision, they do not have to be exactly equal intervals; they can be arranged at approximately equal intervals. This also makes it easier to deliberately design the distance between the core regions 11.

[0074] Furthermore, the roundness of the core region 11 and the covering region 12, and the shape of the covered portion 13 can be achieved with a precision of less than a few μm relative to the design.

[0075] Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view of the plane along the long side of the insert 20 and passing through the center of the width direction of the insert 20. Figure 3 This is a front view of cable 100. The ferrule 20 is, for example, an interchangeable ferrule with the MT ferrule, having a front face 21, a rear face 22, a configuration hole 23, a connecting hole 24, and two guide holes 25. Here, the MT ferrule conforms, for example, to the JISC5981 standard and IEC61754-5 standard related to F12 type multi-core fiber optic connectors. The ferrule 20 can be made of a known thermoplastic resin suitable for injection molding and with excellent heat resistance.

[0076] The front face 21 and the rear face 22 are opposite each other. A configuration hole 23 passes through the front face 21 and the rear face 22. That is, the configuration hole 23 extends in one direction (long side direction) inside the ferrule 20. The inner shape of the configuration hole 23 is approximately the same as the outer shape of the cross-section of the multi-light transmission sheet 10, for example, it is a rounded shape.

[0077] At least one end of the multi-optical transmission sheet 10 is received in the configuration hole 23. The end face of the multi-optical transmission sheet 10 is located on the same surface as the front end face 21 of the ferrule 20. However, in order to achieve physical contact (PC) connection with other optical transmission paths, the core region 11 of the multi-optical transmission sheet 10 may be configured to protrude slightly from the front end face 21 of the ferrule 20. In this case, the protrusion of the core region 11 is, for example, about a few μm. Alternatively, in order to connect with other optical transmission paths via a gap, the core region 11 of the multi-optical transmission sheet 10 may be configured to be slightly recessed from the front end face 21 of the ferrule 20. In this case, the recess of the core region 11 is about a few μm.

[0078] The connecting hole 24 is formed on the upper side of the height direction of the insert 20 (reference). Figure 1 ), which is connected to the configuration hole 23.

[0079] Guide holes 25 can be formed on both sides in the width direction relative to configuration holes 23 (see reference). Figure 1 The guide hole 25 extends substantially parallel to the configuration hole 23 between the front end face 21 and the rear end face 22. The guide hole 25 is a hole for inserting a guide pin for connecting the two inserts 20 to each other. The guide hole 25 is formed by injection molding during the manufacture of the inserts 20 and subsequent machining. Therefore, the guide hole 25 is formed with high precision relative to the configuration hole 23 and the connecting hole 24. The guide hole 25 is an example of a position reference portion.

[0080] Instant adhesive 30 bonds the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 and the ferrule 20. Instant adhesive 30 contains a material that does not dissolve the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 or the ferrule 20. Instant adhesive 30 is, for example, a cyanoacrylate-based instant adhesive. Instant adhesive 30 is located at least within the connecting hole 24.

[0081] Alternatively, a ferrule 20 may also be installed at the other end of the multi-optical transmission sheet 10 (not shown).

[0082] Here, as described above, although the relative positional accuracy of the core region 11 is high in the multi-light transmission sheet 10, positional deviation of the core region 11 in the covering portion 13 sometimes occurs. Specifically, as... Figure 3 As shown, the four core regions 11 are spaced equally with high precision, and the central axes of each core region are aligned in a straight line with high precision in the width direction. However, the core regions 11 are positioned lower in the height direction than the center of the multi-optical transmission sheet 10. Furthermore, Figure 3 The instant adhesive 30 shown fills the gap between the multi-light transmission sheet 10 and the configuration hole 23.

[0083] But Figure 3In this configuration, the four core regions 11 are arranged such that their central axes lie on the center line L1 connecting the central axes of the two guide holes 25. Therefore, it can be said that the four core regions 11 are precisely positioned relative to the guide holes 25, which serve as position references. In this case, if the multi-light transmission sheet 10 is optically connected using the guide holes 25, relatively small connection losses are achieved. Furthermore, for example, the four core regions 11 can be arranged symmetrically about a vertical center line passing through the center of the two guide holes 25 and perpendicular to the center line L1.

[0084] In contrast, Figures 4A to 4D This is a diagram illustrating an example of positional deviation in the core region. Figure 4A This indicates that the multi-light transmission sheet 10 is in contact with the inner wall of the lower side of the configuration hole 23 and is fixed by the instant adhesive 30. In this case, with Figure 3 In a different case, the four core regions 11 are arranged such that the central axis of the core regions 11 is located off-center from the centerline L1. In this case, the four core regions 11 cannot be said to be precisely positioned relative to the guide hole 25.

[0085] also, Figure 4B This illustrates another example of a one-piece molded multi-beam transmission sheet, namely, a multi-beam transmission sheet 10A housed within the configuration hole 23 of the ferrule 20. In the multi-beam transmission sheet 10A, the four core regions 11 are precisely and equally spaced, their central axes are precisely aligned in a straight line along their width, and they are centered in the height direction of the multi-beam transmission sheet 10A. However, in the multi-beam transmission sheet 10A, there is a deviation from the designed shape of the outer shape of the covering portion 13; specifically, the size of the covering portion 13 is excessively small compared to the size of the configuration hole 23. Therefore, in… Figure 4B In the illustrated configuration, the four core regions 11 are arranged such that the central axis of the core regions 11 is located higher than the center line L1 connecting the central axes of the two guide holes 25. In this configuration, it cannot be said that the four core regions 11 are precisely positioned relative to the guide holes 25.

[0086] also, Figure 4C This illustrates another example of a one-piece molded multi-beam transmission sheet, namely, a multi-beam transmission sheet 10B housed within the configuration hole 23 of the ferrule 20. In the multi-beam transmission sheet 10B, the four core regions 11 are spaced equally with high precision, but the central axes of each core region 11 are arranged side-by-side at an angle relative to the side surface (main surface) in the height direction of the covering portion 13. Therefore, in Figure 4C In the state shown, it cannot be said that the four core regions 11 are positioned with high precision relative to the guide hole 25.

[0087] also, Figure 4DThis illustrates another example of a one-piece molded multi-beam transmission sheet, namely, a multi-beam transmission sheet 10C housed within the configuration hole 23 of the ferrule 20. In the multi-beam transmission sheet 10C, the distances between the four core regions 11 are precisely equal. However, due to the irregular shape of the outer shape of the covering portion 13, it cannot be said that the four core regions 11 are precisely positioned relative to the guide hole 25.

[0088] Even if Figures 4A to 4D When cables in this state are connected to other cables, the connection loss may be significant.

[0089] Therefore, the multi-optical transmission sheet 10 is manufactured as follows to enable its production. Figure 3 The cable 100 is in the state shown, and not... Figure 4A In addition, when using multi-optical transmission sheets 10A, 10B, and 10C, the four core regions 11 are also positioned with high precision relative to the guide holes 25.

[0090] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram of the apparatus used in the manufacture of cable 100. The apparatus 1000 includes a position adjustment device 1100 and a processing device 1200.

[0091] The position adjustment device 1100 includes a base 1110, a stage 1120, and a two-view camera 1130. The base 1110 has a mounting section 1111 capable of mounting the insert 20 and a mounting section 1112 capable of mounting the reference structure described later, and also mounts the stage 1120 and the two-view camera 1130.

[0092] The stage 1120 has a mounting slot 1121 for mounting the multi-light transmission sheet 10. The stage 1120 allows the mounted multi-light transmission sheet 10 to move relative to the mounting portion 1111. The stage 1120 allows the multi-light transmission sheet 10 to move in the width direction of the multi-light transmission sheet 10. Figure 5 (X direction), height direction ( Figure 5 (in the Y direction) and the long side direction ( Figure 5 The stage 1120 can move parallel to the Z-axis. Furthermore, the stage 1120 allows the multi-optical transmission sheet 10 to move around an axis along its long side (the Z-direction). Figure 5 The stage 1120 can rotate the multi-optical transmission sheet 10 about the X-axis and the Y-axis. This parallel or rotational movement is performed by an electric actuator such as a motor provided on the stage 1120, but it can also be performed manually.

[0093] The 2-field-of-view camera 1130 includes an optical unit 1131 and a camera unit 1132. The optical unit 1131 includes imaging lenses 1131a and 1131b. Lens 1131a is used to photograph the ferrule 20 mounted in the mounting section 1111 and the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 mounted in the mounting slot 1121 in the Z direction. Lens 1131b is used to photograph a reference structure mounted in the mounting section 1112 in the Z direction. The position in the mounting section 1112 where the reference structure is mounted is an example of a second position for configuring the reference structure. Furthermore, the first position and the second position are different positions.

[0094] The optical unit 1131 has the function of guiding light rays from the image of the objective lens 1131a, which includes the ferrule 20 and the multi-light transmission sheet 10, and light rays from the image of the objective lens 1131b, which includes the reference structure, to the camera unit 1132. The optical unit 1131 can be constructed using optical components such as lenses, prisms, and mirrors.

[0095] The camera unit 1132 receives light rays containing the image of the ferrule 20 and the multi-beam transmission sheet 10, and light rays containing the image of the reference structure, and captures images of the ferrule 20, the multi-beam transmission sheet 10, and the reference structure. The 2-field-of-view camera 1130 is, for example, a beam splitter camera.

[0096] The processing unit 1200 is primarily configured as a computer, such as a personal computer. The processing unit 1200 communicates with the two-view camera 1130 to control its camera operation or acquire image data captured by the two-view camera 1130. Furthermore, the processing unit 1200 includes a display unit 1210, such as a liquid crystal monitor, for displaying the acquired images and adjusting the images (described later). Additionally, the processing unit 1200 communicates with the stage 1120 to control its parallel or rotational movement, or acquires information about the stage 1120's relative position in the X, Y, and Z directions, and its relative rotational position in the θ direction.

[0097] Next, refer to Figures 5-10 This section describes the manufacturing method of the cable 100 using device 1000. First, as... Figure 6 As shown, the operator and the robot mount the insert 20 on the mounting section 1111 and the reference structure R on the mounting section 1112.

[0098] Next, the processing unit 1200 controls the two-view camera 1130 to capture images of the guide hole 25 provided on the insert 20 and the reference structure R (an example of the position reference section imaging step). Here, as Figure 6As shown, the reference structure R has the same shape as the insert 20. Furthermore, a reference position mark R1 and a core position mark R2 are provided on the surface of the reference structure R opposite to the objective lens 1131b. Two reference position marks R1 are provided so that they correspond to the guide holes 25 of the insert 20. Four core position marks R2 are provided, indicating the ideal position of each of the four core regions 11 relative to the guide holes 25.

[0099] Here, the so-called ideal position of each of the four core regions 11 relative to the guide hole 25, in the completed cable 100, is the position in which each of the four core regions 11 should be configured relative to the guide hole 25 by design. Therefore, the four core position marks R2 indicating the ideal position are arranged, for example, with their respective center points located on the line segment connecting the center points of the two reference position marks R1.

[0100] Then, the processing device 1200 acquires the data of the captured image.

[0101] Next, the processing device 1200 generates an adjustment image (an example of the adjustment image generation step), and the adjustment image IA is displayed on the screen in the display unit 1210. Figure 7 This diagram shows an example of an image displayed on screen 1211 of display unit 1210. Here, image IR is an image of reference structure R, image I1 is an image of reference position mark R1, and image I2 is an image of core position mark R2. On the other hand, image I20 is an image of ferrule 20, and image I25 is an image of guide hole.

[0102] The adjusted image IA is a composite image formed by superimposing the image I1 of the reference position mark R1 in the image of the reference structure R and the image I25 of the guide hole 25. Here, to ensure that the image I1 of the reference position mark R1 and the image I25 of the guide hole 25 are consistent, preferably, the mounting portion 1112 is equipped with an actuator capable of fine-tuning the position of the reference structure R mounted on the mounting portion 1112. This fine-tuning of the position of the reference structure R mounted on the mounting portion 1112 can be done manually or via software. Furthermore, to ensure that the image I1 of the reference position mark R1 and the image I25 of the guide hole 25 are consistent, the mounting portion 1111 may also be equipped with an actuator to fine-tune the position of the insert 20 mounted on the mounting portion 1111. This fine-tuning of the position of the insert 20 mounted on the mounting portion 1111 can also be done manually or via software.

[0103] Next, as Figure 8As shown, the operator or the robot places the multi-light transmission sheet 10 into the placement slot 1121 of the stage 1120. Then, the processing device 1200 controls the stage 1120 to receive one end of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 into the placement hole 23 of the insert 20 (an example of the receiving step).

[0104] Next, the processing unit 1200 controls the two-view camera 1130 to capture an image of the core region 11 exposed at one end of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 housed in the ferrule 20 (an example of the core region imaging step). Afterward, the processing unit 1200 acquires the data of the captured image.

[0105] Next, the processing device 1200 controls the stage 1120 to adjust the relative position of the multi-optical transmission sheet 10 with respect to the ferrule 20 so that the position of the image of each of the core regions 11 is consistent with the position of the image of each of the core position marks R2 corresponding to each position (an example of the position adjustment step).

[0106] For example, in Figure 9 In this image, image I10 is set as an image of the end face of the multi-optical transmission sheet 10, and the four images I11 are set as images of the core region 11. For example... Figure 9 As shown above, during the initial imaging of the core region 11, in the image 1211, the position of each of the images I2 in image IA is adjusted to deviate from the position of each of the images I11 in the core region 11. Therefore, the processing device 1200 controls the stage 1120 to adjust the position of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 so that the position of each of the images I11 in the core region 11 is consistent with the position of each of the images I2 corresponding to each position. As a result, as Figure 9 As shown on the lower side, each of the four core regions 11 is ideally positioned relative to the guide hole 25.

[0107] Next, as Figure 10 As shown, after the operator and the robot have adjusted the relative position of the multi-beam transmission piece 10 with respect to the insert 20, they drip instant adhesive 30 contained in container C into the connecting hole 24 to fix the multi-beam transmission piece 10 to the insert 20 (an example of a fixing step). The dripped instant adhesive 30 reaches the gap between the multi-beam transmission piece 10 and the mounting hole 23 from inside the connecting hole 24, fills the gap, and cures. Thus, the cable 100 becomes... Figure 3 The state shown.

[0108] According to the manufacturing method described above, even if there is a positional deviation of the core region 11 in the coating portion 13, the positional deviation of the core region 11 relative to the guide hole 25 can be suppressed, thereby achieving a cable 100 that suppresses the increase in connection loss. Furthermore, according to the manufacturing method described above, even for multi-optical transmission sheets such as the multi-optical transmission sheets 10A, 10B, and 10C in FIG4, which have positional deviations in the core region 11, or further different positional deviations, a cable 100 that suppresses the increase in connection loss can be achieved.

[0109] Furthermore, as described above, the processing device 1200 may not display the envisioned reference structure, guide hole 25, and core region 11 on the display unit 1210. Moreover, without being displayed on the display unit 1210, the following steps can be performed through data processing based on the processing device 1200: reconciling the captured guide hole 25 and reference position mark R1; and adjusting the relative position of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 relative to the ferrule 20. These reconciliation and position adjustment steps can be performed with higher precision using software processing that utilizes artificial intelligence techniques, etc.

[0110] Furthermore, in the above manufacturing method, the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 is pre-cut to form a high-precision end face before one end of the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 is received into the mounting hole 23 of the insert 20. However, in the above manufacturing method, one end of the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 may be received into the mounting hole 23 more protruding than the front end face 21 of the insert 20. After the position is adjusted and the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 is fixed to the insert 20, the protruding part is cut to form such an end face.

[0111] (Implementation Method 2)

[0112] Figure 11A , Figure 11B This is a schematic structural diagram of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly, i.e., optical assembly 100A, according to Embodiment 2. Figure 11A It is a cross-sectional view of a plane along the long side of the optical component 100A and passing through the center of the width direction of the ferrule. Figure 11B This is a front view of the optical assembly 100A viewed along its long side. The optical assembly 100A has... Figure 1 The cable 100 shown has a structure in which the core 20 is replaced with a core 20A, and an electronic board 40 is added.

[0113] The ferrule 20A, for example, is interchangeable with the MT ferrule, just like the ferrule 20. The ferrule 20A has a front face 21, a rear face 22, a mounting hole 23A, a connecting hole 24, two guide holes 25, and a height difference portion 26A. The front face 21, rear face 22, and connecting hole 24 are the same as their corresponding elements in the ferrule 20, so their description is omitted. Furthermore, the ferrule 20A will... Figure 11A The first component 20A1 and the second component 20A2 shown are joined together to form the structure.

[0114] The mounting hole 23A, like the mounting hole 23, extends between the front end face 21 and the rear end face 22. A height difference portion 26A is provided within the mounting hole 23A. The mounting hole 23 is divided by the height difference portion 26A into a first part with rounded corners, located on the rear end face 22 side and capable of housing the multi-beam transmission sheet 10, and a second part with rounded corners, located on the front end face 21 side and not capable of housing the multi-beam transmission sheet 10. The first part is located on the first member 20A1, and the second part is located on the second member 20A2. The multi-beam transmission sheet 10 is positioned in the first part, with its end face touching the height difference portion 26A.

[0115] The electronic substrate 40 includes a photoelectric element 41, an electrical element 42, and a substrate body 43. The photoelectric element 41 is mounted on the substrate body 43. The photoelectric element 41 is, for example, an array element, with each element constituting the array optically bonded to each of the core regions 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10. The photoelectric element 41 is, for example, a light-emitting array element such as a vertical resonator type surface-emitting laser array element, or a light-receiving array element such as a photodiode array element. In addition, the photoelectric element 41 is configured such that the light-emitting surface or the light-receiving surface does not face the substrate body 43 side but faces the multi-light transmission sheet 10 side. Furthermore, in the photoelectric element 41, bonding wires extend from the light-emitting surface or the light-receiving surface side to the substrate body 43, and electrical connection is achieved by wire bonding.

[0116] Electrical component 42 is a component electrically connected to photoelectric component 41, for example, a driver for the photoelectric component 41 if it is a light-emitting array component. In addition, electrical component 42 is a transimpedance amplifier that converts the current signal output from the light-receiving array component into a voltage signal, for example, if the photoelectric component 41 is a light-receiving array component.

[0117] The substrate body 43 is a rigid substrate with an inverted L-shape when viewed from the side, and is mounted to the front end face 21 of the insert 20A by bonding or the like. The substrate body 43 has wiring patterns for electrically connecting the optoelectronic element 41 and the electrical element 42. Furthermore, with the substrate body 43 mounted to the front end face 21 of the insert 20A, the optoelectronic element 41 is positioned in a space further forward than the end face of the multi-light transmission sheet 10, through a height difference portion 26A formed in the mounting hole 23A (i.e., the second part mentioned above). On the other hand, the electrical element 42 is mounted in the substrate body 43 in a position facing the height direction (see reference). Figure 1 On the upper side surface.

[0118] Furthermore, the substrate body 43 has two positioning holes 43a. When the substrate body 43 is mounted on the front end face 21 of the insert 20A, its position is adjusted so that each of the two positioning holes 43a aligns with one of the two guide holes 25 of the insert 20A (see reference). Figure 11B Each of the two positioning holes 43a is aligned. Here, the array elements of the optoelectronic element 41 are positioned with high precision with the two positioning holes 43a. As a result, by adjusting the position so that each of the two positioning holes 43a aligns with each of the two guide holes 25, each element constituting the array of the array elements of the optoelectronic element 41 is optically coupled with each of the core regions 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 with high precision. The positioning hole 43a is an example of a positioning part. The electronic substrate 40 or the substrate body 43 is an example of a component equipped with a positioning part.

[0119] When manufacturing an optical component 100A with such a structure, the process is similar to that used in manufacturing the cable 100 described above: first, a position reference imaging step, an image generation adjustment step, a receiving step, a core area imaging step, a position adjustment step, and a fixing step are performed. Then, the step of mounting the electronic substrate 40 onto the ferrule 20A is performed. In the step of mounting the electronic substrate 40 onto the ferrule 20A, for example, for the electronic substrate 40 or substrate body 43, which is a component having a positioning hole 43a, the relative position of the component with respect to the ferrule 20A is adjusted so that the positioning hole 43a becomes the mounting position for the guide hole 25, and the component is mounted onto the ferrule 20A. In this embodiment, "the positioning hole 43a becomes the mounting position for the guide hole 25" means that the positioning hole 43a is aligned with the guide hole 25. Alternatively, the step of mounting the electronic substrate 40 onto the ferrule 20A can also be performed using other methods. For example, first, an image of the core region 11 exposed on the end face of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 and an image of the light-emitting surface or light-receiving surface (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the light-receiving surface) of the photoelectric element 41 mounted on the electronic substrate 40 are captured using a 2-field-of-view camera 1130. Next, similar to the position adjustment step, position adjustment is performed so that each image of the core region 11 and each image of the light-receiving surface are aligned. Then, the 2-field-of-view camera 1130 is removed, and the electronic substrate 40 and the insert 20A are moved relative to each other to bring them closer together for installation. This relative movement is performed so that the position of the core region 11 and the position of the light-receiving surface do not deviate. This method can also be used in the alignment of the core region and the light-receiving surface of the photoelectric element in Embodiment 3 described later, and in the alignment of the lens and the light-receiving surface of the photoelectric element in Embodiments 4, 6, 8, and 9.

[0120] According to the manufacturing method described above, similar to the case of Embodiment 1, even if there is a positional deviation of the core region 11 in the covered portion 13, the positional deviation of the core region 11 relative to the guide hole 25 and the photoelectric element 41 can be suppressed, thereby realizing an optical component 100A that suppresses the increase of connection loss. Here, the so-called connection loss refers to the connection loss between the electrical element 41 and the multi-light transmission sheet 10.

[0121] Furthermore, in the above manufacturing method, the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 is pre-cut to form a high-precision end face before one end of the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 is received into the mounting hole 23 of the ferrule 20A. However, in the above manufacturing method, the ferrule 20A can also be divided into a first component 20A1 and a second component 20A2, with one end of the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 protruding from the front end face of the first component 20A1 and received into the mounting hole 23. After position adjustment, the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 is fixed to the first component 20A1, and then the protruding portion is cut to form such an end face. Subsequently, the second component 20A2 can be joined to the first component 20A1 to form the ferrule 20A.

[0122] (Implementation Method 3)

[0123] Figure 12A , Figure 12B This is a schematic structural diagram of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly, i.e., optical assembly 100B, according to Embodiment 3. Figure 12A It is a cross-sectional view of a plane along the long side of the optical component 100B and passing through the center of the width direction of the ferrule. Figure 12B This is a front view of the optical assembly 100B viewed along its long side. The optical assembly 100B has... Figure 1 The cable 100 shown in Embodiment 1 has an additional electronic substrate 40B.

[0124] The electronic substrate 40B includes an optoelectronic element 41B, an electrical element 42, and a substrate body 43B. The optoelectronic element 41B is mounted on the substrate body 43B. Like the optoelectronic element 41, the optoelectronic element 41B is, for example, an array element, with each element constituting the array optically bonded to each of the core regions 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10. The optoelectronic element 41B is sandwiched between the substrate body 43B and mounted on the side opposite to the ferrule 20. The light-emitting or light-receiving surface of the optoelectronic element 41B is configured to face the substrate body 43B. The optoelectronic element 41B is then electrically connected to the substrate body 43B via flip-chip mounting, rather than wire bonding. An optical bonding hole 43Bb is provided in the substrate body 43B. Optical bonding between each element constituting the array in the optoelectronic element 41B and each of the core regions 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 is achieved through the optical bonding hole 43Bb.

[0125] Electrical component 42 is a component that is electrically connected to optoelectronic component 41B, such as a driver for a light-emitting array element or a transimpedance amplifier.

[0126] The substrate body 43B is a rigid substrate with an inverted L-shape when viewed from the side, and is mounted to the front end face 21 of the insert 20 by bonding or the like. The substrate body 43B has a wiring pattern for electrically connecting the optoelectronic element 41B and the electrical element 42.

[0127] Furthermore, similar to Embodiment 2, the substrate body 43B has two positioning holes 43a. When the substrate body 43B is mounted on the front end face 21 of the insert 20, position adjustment is performed so that each of the two positioning holes 43a aligns with each of the two guide holes 25 of the insert 20. Similarly to Embodiment 2, the array elements of the optoelectronic element 41B are precisely positioned with respect to the two positioning holes 43a. As a result, by adjusting the position so that each of the two positioning holes 43a aligns with each of the two guide holes 25, each element constituting the array of the optoelectronic element 41B is optically coupled with each of the core regions 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 with high precision.

[0128] When manufacturing an optical component 100B having such a structure, the same procedure applies as when manufacturing the optical component 100A described above.

[0129] According to the manufacturing method described above, similar to embodiments 1 and 2, even if there is a positional deviation of the core region 11 in the covered portion 13, the positional deviation of the core region 11 relative to the guide hole 25 and the photoelectric element 41B can be suppressed, thereby achieving an optical component 100B that suppresses the increase in bonding loss. Here, bonding loss refers to the bonding loss between the photoelectric element 41B and the multi-light transmission sheet 10.

[0130] Furthermore, in the optical component 100B, since flip-chip mounting is performed, the component can be miniaturized compared to wire bonding mounting, and the wiring length of electrical component 42 and optoelectronic component 41B can be shortened, thus making it suitable for high-frequency signal transmission and reception.

[0131] (Implementation Method 4)

[0132] Figures 13A to 13F This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure or manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly, i.e., optical assembly 100C, according to Embodiment 4. Figure 13A It is a cross-sectional view of a plane along the long side of the optical component 100C and passing through the center of the width direction of the ferrule. Figure 13B This is a front view of the optical component 100C viewed along its long side. Figures 13C to 13FThis is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing optical component 100C. Optical component 100C has... Figure 12A , Figure 12B The optical component 100B shown has a structure in which the insert 20B is replaced with the insert 20C, and a lens element 50 is added.

[0133] The ferrule 20C is interchangeable with the MT ferrule, for example, as the ferrule 20. The ferrule 20C has a front face 21, a rear face 22, a mounting hole 23C, a connecting hole 24, two guide holes 25, and a protrusion 26C. The front face 21, rear face 22, connecting hole 24, and guide holes 25 are identical to their corresponding elements in the ferrule 20, therefore descriptions are omitted.

[0134] The mounting hole 23C, like the mounting hole 23, extends between the front end face 21 and the rear end face 22. A protrusion 26C is provided within the mounting hole 23C, protruding into it. The mounting hole 23C is divided by the protrusion 26C into a third portion with rounded corners located on the rear end face 22, capable of housing the multi-beam transmission piece 10, and a fourth portion with rounded corners located on the front end face 21, having two sections that cannot accommodate the multi-beam transmission piece 10. The multi-beam transmission piece 10 is positioned in the third portion, its end face touching the protrusion 26C.

[0135] Furthermore, on the side of the protrusion 26C facing the front end face 21 of the insert 20C, there are guide holes 26C disposed on both sides in the width direction opposite to the mounting hole 23C (see reference). Figure 13D ).

[0136] Lens element 50 is mounted on protrusion 26C. Lens element 50 is, for example, rounded and plate-shaped, having four array lenses 51 arranged in the width direction. Lens element 50 has a focusing or collimating function, improving the optical integration efficiency of photoelectric element 41B and multi-light transmission sheet 10. Furthermore, lens element 50 has two positioning holes 52 (see reference) disposed on both sides of array lenses 51 in the width direction and precisely positioned relative to array lenses 51. Figure 13F ).

[0137] With the lens element 50 mounted on the protrusion 26C, its position is adjusted so that each of the two positioning holes 52 aligns with each of the two guide holes 26Ca of the protrusion 26C. Here, the array lens 51 of the lens element 50 is precisely positioned with respect to the two positioning holes 52. Furthermore, the two guide holes 26Ca are precisely positioned with respect to the two guide holes 25. As a result, by adjusting the position so that each of the two positioning holes 52 aligns with each of the two guide holes 26Ca, each lens of the array lens 51 of the lens element 50 is optically coupled with each of the core regions 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 with high precision. The positioning hole 52 is an example of a positioning part. The lens element 50 is an example of a component equipped with a positioning part.

[0138] In manufacturing an optical component 100C with such a structure, the process is similar to that in manufacturing the cable 100 described above, involving a position reference imaging step, an image generation adjustment step, a housing step, a core area imaging step, a position adjustment step, and a fixing step, to produce... Figure 13C , Figure 13D In the state shown, the next step is to sequentially install the lens element 50 and the electronic substrate 40B into the insert 20C. Specifically, for the lens element 50 with the positioning hole 52, the relative position of the components with respect to the insert 20C is adjusted so that the positioning hole 52 is the mounting position for the guide hole 25, and the lens element 50 is installed into the insert 20C (see reference). Figure 13E , Figure 13F In this embodiment, the term "positioning hole 52" refers to the mounting position relative to the guide hole 25, meaning that the positioning hole 52 is aligned with the guide hole 26Ca. This is because the guide hole 26Ca is positioned with high precision relative to the guide hole 25.

[0139] Based on the manufacturing method described above, similarly to embodiments 1 to 3, even if there is a positional deviation of the core region 11 in the covered portion 13, the positional deviation of the core region 11 relative to the guide hole 25, the lens element 50, and the photoelectric element 41B can be suppressed, thereby achieving an optical assembly 100C that suppresses the increase in connection loss. Furthermore, compared to the case where it can be wire-bonded, the optical assembly 100C is more miniaturized and suitable for transmitting and receiving high-frequency signals.

[0140] Furthermore, in the above manufacturing method, the multi-beam transmission piece 10 is pre-cut to form a high-precision end face before one end of the multi-beam transmission piece 10 is received into the mounting hole 23C of the ferrule 20C. However, in the above manufacturing method, the ferrule 20C can be divided into a first component and a second component as in the case of the ferrule 20A. One end of the multi-beam transmission piece 10 is received into the mounting hole 23C with a protrusion greater than the front end face of the first component. After position adjustment, the multi-beam transmission piece 10 is fixed to the first component, and the protruding portion is cut to form such an end face. Then, the second component is joined to the first component to form the ferrule 20C. In addition, the second component can contain a transparent material such as polyetherimide and be integrated with the lens element. In this case, position adjustment relative to the lens element 50 is not required.

[0141] (Implementation Method 5)

[0142] Figures 14A to 14F This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the optical component of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 5, or a method for manufacturing it. Figure 14A It is a cross-sectional view of a plane along the long side of the optical component 100D and passing through the center of the width direction of the ferrule. Figure 14B This is a top view of the optical assembly 100D viewed from a height perspective. Figures 14C to 14F This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of optical component 100D.

[0143] The optical component 100D includes a multi-light transmission sheet 10, a ferrule 20D, an instant adhesive 30, and an electronic substrate 40D.

[0144] The ferrule 20D has an upper end face 21D, a rear end face 22, a configuration hole 23D, a connecting hole 24, two guide holes 25D1, an inclined surface 27D, and a reflector 28.

[0145] The upper end face 21D faces upward in the height direction, and the rear end face 22 faces rearward in the long side direction. The upper end face 21D and the rear end face 22 are not opposite each other. The mounting hole 23D extends between the upper end face 21D and the rear end face 22. That is, the mounting hole 23D is bent at approximately 90 degrees within the ferrule 20D. The inner shape of the mounting hole 23D, in the portion extending in the long side direction, is approximately consistent with the outer shape of the cross-section of the multi-light transmission sheet 10, for example, it is a rounded shape. At least one end of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 is received in the mounting hole 23D.

[0146] A connecting hole 24 is formed on the upper end face 21D and communicates with the configuration hole 23D.

[0147] The guide hole 25D1 is formed on both sides of the upper end face 21D relative to the mounting hole 23D in the width direction. The guide hole 25D1 is formed by injection molding during the manufacturing of the insert 20 and machining after injection molding, and its position relative to the mounting hole 23D and the connecting hole 24 is precisely formed. The guide hole 25D1 is an example of a position reference part.

[0148] The inclined surface 27D is provided as part of the inner wall surface in the middle of the configuration hole 23D, and forms an angle of approximately 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the core region 11 extending in the long side direction in the configuration hole 23D. The reflector 28 is flat and is provided on the inclined surface 27D.

[0149] Instant adhesive 30 is used to bond the multi-light transmission sheet 10 and the ferrule 20D together.

[0150] The electronic substrate 40D includes an optoelectronic element 41B, an electrical element 42, and a substrate body 43D. The optoelectronic element 41B is mounted on the substrate body 43D via flip-chip mounting. The electrical element 42 is a component electrically connected to the optoelectronic element 41.

[0151] The substrate body 43D is a rigid, flat substrate that is mounted to the upper surface 21D of the insert 20D by bonding or the like. The substrate body 43D has wiring patterns for electrically connecting the optoelectronic element 41 and the electrical element 42. Furthermore, with the substrate body 43D mounted to the upper surface 21D of the insert 20D, the optoelectronic element 41B and the electrical element 42 are positioned on the side opposite to the insert 20D, sandwiching the substrate body 43D. The substrate body 43D has an optical bonding hole 43Db, through which a reflector 28 is interposed, enabling optical bonding between each element forming an array in the optoelectronic element 41B and each element in the core region 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10.

[0152] Furthermore, the substrate body 43D has two positioning holes 43a. When the substrate body 43D is mounted on the upper end face 21D of the ferrule 20D, the position is adjusted so that each of the two positioning holes 43a aligns with each of the two guide holes 25D of the ferrule 20D. The array elements of the optoelectronic element 41B are positioned with high precision with the two positioning holes 43a. As a result, by adjusting the position so that each of the two positioning holes 43a aligns with each of the two guide holes 25D, each element constituting the array of the array elements of the optoelectronic element 41B is optically coupled with each of the core regions 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 with high precision.

[0153] This section describes the manufacturing process of an optical component 100D with this structure. First, ferrule components 20D1 and 20D2 are prepared. (Example...) Figure 14C , Figure 14DAs shown, the ferrule components 20D1 and 20D2 are components that, when combined, form the ferrule 20D. Alternatively, the ferrule 20D can be manufactured by injection molding or the like, dividing it into two parts to form such ferrule components 20D1 and 20D2. Furthermore, for the sake of shape accuracy, the ferrule components 20D1 and 20D2 can also be manufactured individually by injection molding or the like. The ferrule component 20D1 has a shape substantially the same as the ferrule 20 in the cable 100 according to Embodiment 1. The ferrule component 20D1 has a hole 23D1 corresponding to the mounting hole 23 of the ferrule 20. The ferrule component 20D1 can also be considered an example of a housing component. Furthermore, the ferrule component 20D1 has a guide portion 25D2 corresponding to the guide hole 25 of the ferrule 20. The guide portion 25D2 is an example of a position reference portion. Furthermore, an inclined surface 27D and a reflector 28 are provided on the ferrule component 20D2 side. Furthermore, the insert member 20D2 is provided with a recess 23D2. When the insert members 20D1 and 20D2 are joined together, the hole 23D1 and the recess 23D2 are connected, thereby forming the configuration hole 23D.

[0154] Next, similar to Embodiment 1, the device 1000 uses the insert member 20D1 and the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 to perform the position reference imaging step, the image generation adjustment step, the receiving step, the core area imaging step, the position adjustment step, and the fixing step. Thus, a device is manufactured that precisely positions the core area 11 of the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 relative to the guide portion 25D2. Figure 14C , Figure 14D The component shown on the right.

[0155] Next, the ferrule members 20D1 and 20D2 are joined together to form the ferrule 20D. In this case, the ferrule members 20D1 and 20D2 are positioned, for example, by aligning the guide portion 25D2 of the ferrule member 20D1 with the guide portion (not shown) of the ferrule member 20D2 formed at the position corresponding to the guide portion 25D2.

[0156] Next, the electronic substrate 40D is mounted onto the ferrule 20D. Specifically, for the electronic substrate 40D or substrate body 43D having the positioning hole 43a, the relative position of the component with respect to the ferrule 20D is adjusted so that the positioning hole 43a becomes the mounting position for the guide hole 25D1, and the component is mounted onto the ferrule 20D. In this embodiment, the positioning hole 43a becoming the mounting position for the guide hole 25D1 means that the positioning hole 43a is aligned with the guide hole 25D1.

[0157] According to the manufacturing method described above, similar to embodiments 1 to 4, even if there is a positional deviation of the core region 11 in the coated portion 13, the positional deviation of the core region 11 relative to the guide hole 25D1 and the photoelectric element 41B can be suppressed, thereby achieving an optical component 100D that suppresses the increase in bonding loss. Furthermore, compared with the case of wire bonding mounting, the optical component 100D can be further miniaturized and is suitable for high-frequency signal transmission and reception.

[0158] (Implementation Method 6)

[0159] Figures 15A to 15F This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the optical component of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 6, or a method for manufacturing it. Figure 15A It is a cross-sectional view of a plane along the long side of the optical component 100E and passing through the center of the width direction of the ferrule. Figure 15B This is a top view of the optical assembly 100E viewed in the height direction. Figures 15C to 15F This is a diagram illustrating a manufacturing method for optical component 100E. Optical component 100E has the following characteristics: Figures 14A to 14F The optical component 100D shown has a structure in which the insert 20D is replaced with the insert 20E, and a lens element 50 is added.

[0160] The ferrule 20E has an upper end face 21E, a rear end face 22, a configuration hole 23E, a connecting hole 24, two guide holes 25E1, protrusions 26E1 and 26E2, an inclined surface 27E, and a reflector 28.

[0161] The upper end face 21E faces upward in the height direction, and the rear end face 22 faces rearward in the long side direction. A mounting hole 23E extends between the upper end face 21E and the rear end face 22. That is, the mounting hole 23E is bent approximately 90 degrees within the insert 20E. The inner shape of the mounting hole 23E in the portion accommodating the multi-beam transmission piece 10 is approximately consistent with the outer shape of the cross-section of the multi-beam transmission piece 10, for example, it is a rounded shape. At least one end of the multi-beam transmission piece 10 is accommodated in the mounting hole 23E.

[0162] The guide hole 25E1 is formed on both sides of the upper end face 21E in the width direction relative to the mounting hole 23E. The guide hole 25E1 is formed by injection molding during the manufacturing of the insert 20E and subsequent machining, and its position relative to the mounting hole 23E and the connecting hole 24 is precisely formed. The guide hole 25E1 is an example of a position reference part.

[0163] Protrusions 26E1 and 26E2 are provided within the mounting hole 23E and protrude into it. Protrusion 26E1 is located in the mounting hole 23E on the side away from the rear end face 22 of the portion extending in the long side direction. The multi-light transmission sheet 10 has its end face contact with protrusion 26E1. Protrusion 26E2 is located in the portion extending in the height direction within the mounting hole 23E.

[0164] Furthermore, guide holes 26E2a are provided on the side of the protrusion 26E2 facing the upper end face 21E of the insert 20E, and are disposed on both sides in the width direction relative to the mounting hole 23E (see reference). Figure 15D ).

[0165] An inclined surface 27E is provided as part of the inner wall surface midway through the configuration hole 23E, forming an angle of approximately 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the core region 11 extending in the long side direction within the configuration hole 23E. A reflector 28 is provided on the inclined surface 27E.

[0166] Lens element 50 is mounted on protrusion 26E2. As described above, lens element 50 has: four array lenses 51; and two positioning holes 52 (see reference) for high-precision positioning relative to the array lenses 51. Figure 15F ).

[0167] With the lens element 50 mounted on the protrusion 26E2, its position is adjusted so that each of the two positioning holes 52 aligns with each of the two guide holes 26E2a of the protrusion 26E2. Similar to the optical assembly 100C shown in FIG. 13, the array lens 51 of the lens element 50 is precisely positioned with respect to the two positioning holes 52. Furthermore, the two guide holes 26E2a and two guide holes 25E1 are precisely positioned. As a result, by adjusting the position so that each of the two positioning holes 52 aligns with each of the two guide holes 26E2a, each lens of the array lens 51 of the lens element 50 is optically coupled with each of the core regions 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 with high precision. The positioning hole 52 is an example of a positioning part. The lens element 50 is an example of a component equipped with a positioning part.

[0168] In the case of manufacturing an optical component 100E with such a structure, compared with manufacturing... Figures 14A to 14F The same applies to the optical assembly 100D shown. That is, first, prepare the ferrule components 20E1 and 20E2. For example... Figure 15C , Figure 15DAs shown, the ferrule members 20E1 and 20E2, when combined, form ferrule 20E. Ferrule member 20E1 has a shape substantially the same as ferrule member 20D1 in optical assembly 100D, and is provided with a hole 23E1 corresponding to the hole 23D1 in ferrule member 20D1. Ferrule member 20E1 can also be considered an example of a housing member. Furthermore, ferrule member 20E1 is provided with a guide portion (not shown) corresponding to the guide hole 25D1 in ferrule member 20D1, serving as an example of a position reference portion. Additionally, protrusions 26E1 and 26E2, an inclined surface 27E, and a reflector 28 are provided on the ferrule member 20E2 side. Furthermore, ferrule member 20E2 is provided with a recess 23E2. When ferrule members 20E1 and 20E2 are combined, the hole 23E1 and the recess 23E2 are connected, thereby forming a placement hole 23E.

[0169] Next, with Figures 14A to 14F Similarly, the device 1000 uses the insert member 20E1 and the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 to perform a position reference imaging step, an image generation adjustment step, a receiving step, a core area imaging step, a position adjustment step, and a fixing step. This allows the manufacture of an assembly in which the core area 11 of the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 is precisely positioned relative to the guide portion 25E2.

[0170] Next, the ferrule components 20E1 and 20E2 are joined together to form ferrule 20E (see reference). Figure 15C , Figure 15D In this case, the ferrule members 20E1 and 20E2 are positioned, for example, by aligning the guide portion of the ferrule member 20E1 with the guide portion of the ferrule member 20E2 formed at a position corresponding to the guide portion.

[0171] Next, the step of mounting the lens element 50 onto the protrusion 26E2 of the insert 20E is performed (see reference). Figure 15E , Figure 15F Then, the step of mounting the electronic substrate 40D onto the ferrule 20E is performed in the same manner as in Embodiment 5.

[0172] According to the manufacturing method described above, similarly to embodiments 1 to 5, even if there is a positional deviation of the core region 11 in the covered portion 13, the positional deviation of the core region 11 relative to the guide hole 25E1 and the photoelectric element 41B can be suppressed, thereby achieving an optical assembly 100E that suppresses the increase in connection loss. Alternatively, the ferrule member 20E2 and a lens element such as the lens element 50 can be integrated. In this case, the step of installing the lens element is unnecessary.

[0173] (Implementation Method 7)

[0174] Figure 16A , Figure 16BThis is a schematic structural diagram of the optical components of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 7. Figure 16A It is a cross-sectional view of a plane along the long side of optical component 100F and passing through the center of the width direction of the ferrule. Figure 16B This is a top view of the optical assembly 100F viewed from the height direction.

[0175] The optical component 100F includes a multi-light transmission sheet 10, a ferrule 20F, and an instant adhesive 30.

[0176] The ferrule 20F has the same structure as the ferrule 20D in embodiment 5. That is, the ferrule 20F has an upper end face 21F, a rear end face 22, a mounting hole 23F, a connecting hole 24, two guide holes 25F, an inclined surface 27F, and a reflector 28.

[0177] The upper end face 21F faces upward in the height direction, and the rear end face 22 faces rearward in the long side direction. The upper end face 21F and the rear end face 22 are not opposite each other. The mounting hole 23F passes between the upper end face 21F and the rear end face 22, and bends approximately 90 degrees within the insert 20F. The portion of the inner shape of the mounting hole 23F extending in the long side direction is approximately consistent with the outer shape of the cross-section of the multi-light transmission sheet 10, for example, it is a rounded shape. At least one end of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 is received in the mounting hole 23F.

[0178] A connecting hole 24 is formed on the upper end face 21F and communicates with the configuration hole 23F.

[0179] The guide hole 25F is formed on both sides of the upper end face 21F relative to the arrangement hole 23F in the width direction. The guide hole 25F is formed by injection molding during the manufacture of the insert 20 and machining after injection molding, and its position relative to the arrangement hole 23F and the connecting hole 24 is precisely formed. The guide hole 25F is an example of a position reference part.

[0180] An inclined surface 27F is provided as part of the inner wall surface midway through the configuration hole 23F, forming an angle of approximately 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the core region 11 extending in the long side direction within the configuration hole 23F. A reflector 28 is provided on the inclined surface 27F.

[0181] Instant adhesive 30 is used to bond the multi-light transmission sheet 10 and the ferrule 20D together.

[0182] As from Figure 16B As is known, if the optical assembly 100F is viewed from the upper surface 21F side, the guide hole 25F can be seen, and the opening 23Fa through the configuration hole 23F can be seen reflected in the core region 11 of the reflector 28.

[0183] This describes the manufacturing process of an optical component 100F with such a structure. Figure 17This is an illustration of the apparatus used in the manufacture of optical component 100F. Apparatus 1000A has... Figure 5 The device 1000 shown has a structure in which the position adjustment device 1100 is replaced with the position adjustment device 1100A and the 2-field-of-view camera 1130 is replaced with the 2-field-of-view camera 1130A.

[0184] The 2-field-of-view camera 1130A includes an optical unit 1131A and a camera unit 1132A. The optical unit 1131A includes imaging objective lenses 1131Aa and 1131Ab. Objective lens 1131Aa is used to photograph the ferrule 20 mounted in the mounting section 1111 and the multi-beam transmission sheet 10 mounted in the mounting slot 1121 in the Y direction. Objective lens 1131Ab is used to photograph a reference structure mounted in the mounting section 112 in the Y direction. The position in the mounting section 1112 where the reference structure is mounted is an example of a second position for configuring the reference structure. Furthermore, the first position and the second position are different positions.

[0185] The position adjustment device 1100A differs from the position adjustment device 1100 in that it is configured to carry a two-view camera 1130.

[0186] Next, refer to Figure 16A , Figure 16B , Figure 17 This section describes the manufacturing method of the optical component 100F utilizing the device 1000A. First, as... Figure 17 As shown, the operator and the robot place the insert 20F in the mounting section 1111. Then, the operator and the robot place the reference structure R in the mounting section 1112.

[0187] Next, the processing unit 1200 controls the two-view camera 1130A to capture images of the guide hole 25F provided on the ferrule 20F and the reference structure R (an example of the position reference section imaging step). Afterward, the processing unit 1200 acquires the data of the captured images.

[0188] Next, the processing unit 1200 generates and Figure 7 The same adjustment image IA shown (an example of the adjustment image generation step) is displayed on the screen of the display unit 1210. The adjustment image includes a reference position mark corresponding to the guide hole 25F of the ferrule 20F, and four core position marks indicating the ideal position of each of the four core regions 11 relative to the guide hole 25F. Furthermore, the adjustment image is made to superimpose the image of the guide hole 25F and the image of the reference position marks of the reference structure R.

[0189] Next, the operator or robot places the multi-light transmission sheet 10 into the placement slot 1121 of the stage 1120. Then, the processing device 1200 controls the stage 1120 to receive one end of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 into the placement hole 23F of the ferrule 20F (an example of the receiving step).

[0190] Next, the processing unit 1200 controls the two-view camera 1130A to capture an image of the core region 11 exposed at one end face of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 housed in the ferrule 20F (an example of the core region imaging step). In this capture, as shown in FIG. 16, the processing unit 1200 captures an image of the core region 11 reflected by the reflector 28. Afterwards, the processing unit 1200 acquires the data of the captured image.

[0191] Next, the processing device 1200 controls the stage 1120 to adjust the relative position of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 with respect to the ferrule 20F, so that the position of the image of each of the core regions 11 is consistent with the position of the core position mark of the corresponding reference structure R (an example of the position adjustment step).

[0192] Next, after the operator and the robot have finished adjusting the relative position of the multi-light transmission piece 10 with respect to the ferrule 20, they drip instant adhesive 30 onto the connecting hole 24 to fix the multi-light transmission piece 10 to the ferrule 20F (an example of the fixing step).

[0193] According to the manufacturing method described above, similar to the cases of embodiments 1 to 6, even if there is a positional deviation of the core region 11 in the covered portion 13, the positional deviation of the guide hole 25F relative to the core region 11 can be suppressed, thereby realizing an optical component 100F that suppresses the increase in connection loss.

[0194] (Implementation Method 8)

[0195] Figures 18A to 18F This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the optical component of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 8, or a method for manufacturing it. Figure 18A It is a cross-sectional view of a plane along the long side of the optical component 100G and passing through the center of the width direction of the ferrule. Figure 18B This is a top view of the optical component 100G viewed in the height direction. Figures 18C to 18F This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of optical component 100G. Optical component 100G has the following characteristics: Figure 16A , Figure 16B The optical component 100F shown is replaced with ferrule 20F by ferrule 20G, and an electronic substrate 40D and lens element 50 are added.

[0196] 20G ferrule has the same characteristics as Figures 15A to 15F The ferrule 20E shown has the same structure. That is, the ferrule 20G has an upper end face 21G, a rear end face 22, a configuration hole 23G, a connecting hole 24, two guide holes 25G, protrusions 26G1 and 26G2, an inclined surface 27G, and a reflector 28.

[0197] The upper end face 21G faces upward in the height direction, and the rear end face 22 faces rearward in the long side direction. A mounting hole 23G passes between the upper end face 21G and the rear end face 22. That is, the mounting hole 23G is bent approximately 90 degrees within the ferrule 20G. The inner shape of the mounting hole 23G in the portion accommodating the multi-beam transmission piece 10 is approximately consistent with the outer shape of the cross-section of the multi-beam transmission piece 10, for example, it is a rounded shape. At least one end of the multi-beam transmission piece 10 is accommodated in the mounting hole 23G.

[0198] The guide hole 25G is formed on both sides of the upper end face 21G in the width direction, relative to the arrangement hole 23G. The guide hole 25G is formed by injection molding during the manufacture of the insert 20G and subsequent machining, and its position relative to the arrangement hole 23G and the connecting hole 24 is precisely formed. The guide hole 25G is an example of a position reference part.

[0199] Protrusions 26G1 and 26G2 are provided within the mounting hole 23G and protrude into it. Protrusion 26G1 is located in the mounting hole 23G on the side away from the rear end face 22 of the portion extending in the long side direction. The multi-light transmission sheet 10 has its end face contact with protrusion 26G1. Protrusion 26G2 is located in the portion extending in the height direction within the mounting hole 23G.

[0200] Furthermore, guide holes 26G2a are provided on the side of the protrusion 26G2 facing the upper end face 21G of the insert 20G, and are disposed on both sides in the width direction relative to the mounting hole 23G (see reference). Figure 18D ).

[0201] An inclined surface 27G is provided as part of the inner wall surface midway through the configuration hole 23G, forming an angle of approximately 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the core region 11 extending in the long side direction within the configuration hole 23G. A reflector 28 is provided on the inclined surface 27G.

[0202] Lens element 50 is mounted on protrusion 26G2 (reference) Figure 18E , Figure 18F ).

[0203] With the lens element 50 mounted on the protrusion 26G2, its position is adjusted to ensure that it is in harmony with the lens element 50. Figures 15A to 15FSimilarly, each of the two positioning holes 52 of the lens element 50 is aligned with each of the two guide holes 26G2a of the protrusion 26G2. By adjusting the position so that each of the two positioning holes 52 is aligned with each of the two guide holes 26G2a, each of the lenses of the array lens 51 of the lens element 50 is optically coupled with each of the core regions 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 with high precision.

[0204] In the case of manufacturing an optical component 100G with such a structure, with Figure 16A , Figure 16B Similarly, in the case of the optical component 100F shown, the device 1000A performs a position reference imaging step, an image generation adjustment step, a housing step, a core area imaging step, a position adjustment step, and a fixing step to make... Figure 18C , Figure 18D The state shown, followed by, for example, with Figures 15A to 15F Similarly, in the case of the optical assembly 100E shown, the step of mounting the lens element 50 and the electronic substrate 40D onto the ferrule 20G can be performed.

[0205] Based on the manufacturing method described above, similar to embodiments 1 to 7, an optical assembly 100G can be realized that suppresses positional deviations of the guide hole 25G, lens element 50, and photoelectric element 41B relative to the core region 11. Furthermore, in the optical assembly 100G, the photoelectric element 41 can be wire-bonded and mounted, further miniaturizing the assembly and making it suitable for transmitting and receiving high-frequency signals.

[0206] (Implementation Method 9)

[0207] Figures 19A to 19F This is a diagram illustrating the schematic structure of the optical component of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 9, or a method for manufacturing it. Figure 19A It is a cross-sectional view of a plane along the long side of the optical component 100H and passing through the center of the width direction of the ferrule. Figure 19B This is a top view of the optical component 100H as viewed in the height direction. Figures 19C to 19F This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of optical component 100H. Optical component 100H has the following characteristics: Figures 18A to 18F The optical component 100G shown has a structure in which the ferrule 20G is replaced with the ferrule 20H, and the lens element 50 is removed and the lens element 60 is added.

[0208] ferrule 20H has the same Figures 18A to 18FThe ferrule 20H has a similar structure to the ferrule 20G shown. Specifically, the ferrule 20H has an upper end face 21H, a rear end face 22, a mounting hole 23H, a connecting hole 24, two guide holes 25H, a protrusion 26H, an inclined surface 27H, and a reflector 28. The upper end face 21H, the rear end face 22, the mounting hole 23H, the connecting hole 24, and the guide holes 25H are identical to their corresponding elements in the ferrule 20G, and therefore will be described accordingly.

[0209] The protrusion 26H is disposed within the mounting hole 23H and protrudes into the mounting hole 23H. The protrusion 26H is located on the rear end face 22 side in the long side direction relative to the inclined surface 27H within the mounting hole 23H. The multi-light transmission sheet 10 is positioned so that its end face contacts the protrusion 26H.

[0210] An inclined surface 27H is provided as part of the inner wall surface midway through the configuration hole 23H, forming an angle of approximately 45 degrees with the optical axis of the core region 11 extending in the long side direction within the configuration hole 23H. Furthermore, guide holes 27Ha (see reference) are provided on both sides of the inclined surface 27H in the width direction relative to the reflector 28. Figure 19D ).

[0211] The lens element 60, clamping the reflector 28, is mounted on the inclined surface 27H. The lens element 60 has: a triangular prism-shaped main body 61; array lenses 62 and 63 respectively disposed on optical surfaces orthogonal to the main body 61; and two positioning holes 64 (see reference) disposed on the optical surface where the array lenses 63 are located and positioned with high precision relative to the array lenses 62 and 63. Figure 19F The positioning hole 64 is an example of a positioning part, and the lens element 60 is an example of a component having a positioning part.

[0212] With the lens element 60 mounted on the inclined surface 27H, a position adjustment is performed so that each of the two positioning holes 64 of the lens element 60 aligns with each of the two guide holes 27Ha of the inclined surface 27H. By adjusting the position so that each of the two positioning holes 64 aligns with each of the two guide holes 27Ha, each of the lenses of the array lenses 62 and 63 of the lens element 60 is optically coupled with each of the core regions 11 of the multi-light transmission sheet 10 with high precision.

[0213] In the case of manufacturing an optical component 100H with such a structure, with Figures 18A to 18F The same applies to the 100G optical component shown.

[0214] Based on the manufacturing method described above, similar to embodiments 1 to 8, even if there is a positional deviation of the core region 11 in the coated portion 13, the positional deviation of the core region 11 relative to the guide hole 25H, the lens element 60, and the photoelectric element 41B can be suppressed, thereby achieving an optical assembly 100H that suppresses the increase in connection loss. Furthermore, compared to the case where the optical assembly 100H can be wire-bonded and mounted with the photoelectric element 41, the assembly is further miniaturized and suitable for high-frequency signal transmission and reception. In addition, in embodiment 9, the lens element 60 can be replaced, for example, by using two lenses. Figures 18A to 18F The lens element 50 is as shown. In this case, each of the two lens elements 50 is positioned corresponding to each of the array lenses 62 and 63. Furthermore, in embodiment 9, the lens element 60 and the reflector 28 are separate, but the lens element 60 and the reflector 28 can also be integrated.

[0215] (Implementation Method 10)

[0216] Figure 20 This is a schematic structural diagram of the optical component of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet assembly according to Embodiment 10. The optical component 100I has a structure in which the insert 20H of the optical component 100H is replaced with the insert 20I, and the electronic substrate 40D is replaced with the electronic substrate 40I.

[0217] The electronic substrate 40I has a structure in which the photoelectric element 41B of the electronic substrate 40D is replaced with the photoelectric element 41, and the substrate body 43D is replaced with the substrate body 43I. The substrate body 43I is a rigid, flat substrate. Furthermore, the photoelectric element 41 is wire-bonded to the electrical component 42. Additionally, the ferrule 20I differs from the ferrule 20H in that it has a recess 29I on its upper end face 21H and is formed by joining ferrule members 20I1 and 20I2. The recess 29I accommodates the photoelectric element 41 and the electrical component 42.

[0218] In manufacturing such an optical component 100I, firstly, similarly to the case in Embodiment 1, the multi-light transmission sheet 10 and the ferrule member 20I1 are positioned and fixed. Then, the ferrule member 20I1 and the ferrule member 20I2, which is equipped with the reflector 28 and lens element 60, are aligned and fixed. This alignment can be achieved, for example, using a 2-field-of-view camera or a mechanical alignment mechanism such as a guide pin. Next, the ferrule 20I and the electronic substrate 40I are aligned and fixed. This alignment can be achieved, for example, using a 2-field-of-view camera or a mechanical alignment mechanism such as a guide pin.

[0219] In addition, in manufacturing Figure 16A , 16B , Figures 18A to 18F , Figures 19A to 19FIn the case of the optical components involved in embodiments 7, 8, and 9 shown, for example in Figures 14A to 14F In the case where the ferrule of the optical assembly 100D shown in Embodiment 5 is composed of two ferrule members, it can be used in the same way as the optical assembly 100D. Figure 6 The apparatus 1000 shown manufactures optical components. Furthermore, for example, when the optical component includes a lens element, one side of the ferrule member can be formed of a transparent material such as polyetherimide and integrated with the lens element. In this case, individual lens elements and their positional adjustment are not required.

[0220] Furthermore, for example, in Embodiment 1 described above, the ferrule 20 is an interchangeable ferrule with the MT ferrule. However, the ferrule is not limited to this. For example, it can be an interchangeable ferrule with the ferrule used in MPO connectors that comply with the JISC5982 standard and IEC61754-7 standard related to F13 type multi-core fiber optic connectors, or it can be an interchangeable ferrule with the ferrule used in PMT connectors that comply with the JPCA-PE03-01-07S standard.

[0221] Furthermore, for example, in Embodiment 2 described above, the substrate body 43 of the electronic substrate 40 is a rigid substrate, but it can also be a flexible substrate.

[0222] Furthermore, for example, in embodiment 8 described above, the configuration hole 23F is bent at approximately 90 degrees, but the angle of bending is not limited to this.

[0223] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, a cover may also be provided on the rear end face of the ferrule as a flexible member to prevent excessive bending of the multi-light transmission sheet 10.

[0224] Furthermore, in the above manufacturing method, the steps of imaging the position reference section, generating an adjustment image, accommodating the sample, imaging the core area, adjusting the position, and fixing are performed sequentially, but the order of these steps is not limited to this. For example, the generating adjustment image step may be performed after the accommodating step.

[0225] Furthermore, for example, in embodiment 9 described above, the positioning hole 64 may also be a non-hole structure such as a marker.

[0226] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Solutions that can be constructed by combining the above-described constituent elements are also included in the present invention. Moreover, further effects and modifications can be readily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made.

[0227] Symbol Explanation

[0228] 10, 10A, 10B, 10C: Multi-optical transmission sheets

[0229] 11: Core area

[0230] 12: Covered Area

[0231] 13: Covered part

[0232] 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H: Ferrules

[0233] 20D1, 20D2, 20E1, 20E2: ferrule components

[0234] 21: Front end

[0235] 1D, 21E, 21F, 21G, 21H: Upper surface

[0236] 22: Backend

[0237] 23, 23A, 23C, 23D, 23E, 23F, 23G, 23H: Configuration holes

[0238] 23D1, 23E1: Holes

[0239] 23D2, 23E2: concave part

[0240] 23Fa: Open

[0241] 24: Connecting hole

[0242] 25, 25D, 25D1, 25E1, 25F, 25G, 25H, 26Ca, 26E2a, 26G2a, 27Ha: Guide holes

[0243] 25D2, 25E2: Guiding section

[0244] 26A: Elevation Difference Section

[0245] 26C, 26E1, 26E2, 26G1, 26G2, 26H: Protrusions

[0246] 27D, 27E, 27F, 27H: Inclined surfaces

[0247] 28: Reflector

[0248] 29I concave part

[0249] 30: Instant adhesive

[0250] 40, 40B, 40D, 40I: Electronic substrates

[0251] 41, 41B: Optoelectronic components

[0252] 42: Electrical components

[0253] 43, 43B, 43D, 43I: Substrate body

[0254] 43Bb, 43Db: Optical bonding apertures

[0255] 43a, 52, 64: Positioning holes

[0256] 50, 60: Lens elements

[0257] 51, 62, 63: Array lens

[0258] 100: Cable

[0259] 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, 100F, 100G, 100H, 100I: Optical Components

[0260] 1000, 1000A: Device

[0261] 1100, 1100A: Position adjustment device

[0262] 1110:Abutment

[0263] 1111, 1112: Loading section

[0264] 1120: Platform

[0265] 1121: Carrying tank

[0266] 1130, 1130A: 2-view camera

[0267] 1131, 1131A: Optical Department

[0268] 1131a, 1131b, 1131Aa, 1131Ab: Objective lenses

[0269] 1132, 1132A: Camera Department

[0270] 1200: Processing unit

[0271] 1210: Display Section

[0272] 1211:Screen

[0273] C: Container

[0274] IA: Adjust Image

[0275] I1, I2, I10, I11, I25, IR: Images

[0276] L1: Centerline

[0277] R: Reference Construct

[0278] R1: Reference position mark

[0279] R2: Core location marker.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly, The one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly includes: A sheet-like covering containing plastic; and Multiple light transmission regions are configured to extend along the extension direction of the covering portion inside the covering portion, each having a core region containing plastic and a covering region containing plastic and surrounding the outer periphery of the core region. The plurality of optical transmission regions have: A single-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet, arranged in a row that is substantially parallel to each other along the main surface of the covered portion; and A receiving member that receives one end of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet into a configuration hole. The manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly includes: The position reference section imaging step involves photographing the position reference section of the receiving member located at a first position and a reference structure located at a second position different from the first position. The reference structure includes a reference position mark corresponding to the position reference section and a core position mark indicating the ideal position of each of the core regions relative to the position reference section. The image generation step is adjusted to generate an adjusted image that is consistent with the image of the reference position mark and the image of the position reference part; The receiving step involves receiving one end of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet into the configuration hole of the receiving member; The core area imaging step involves imaging the core area exposed on the end face of one end of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet housed in the configuration hole. The position adjustment step involves adjusting the relative position of the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet with respect to the housing member, so that the position of the image of each of the captured core regions is consistent with the position of each of the core position marks corresponding to each of the core regions. and The fixing step involves fixing the one-piece molded multi-light transmission sheet, after the position adjustment has been completed, to the receiving member.

2. The manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The configuration hole extends in one direction within the receiving member.

3. The manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The configuration hole is bent within the receiving member. In the core region imaging step, the core region exposed on the end face and reflected in the mirror disposed in the configuration hole is imaged.

4. The manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly according to claim 1, wherein, For a component with a positioning part, the relative position of the component with respect to the receiving member is adjusted so that the positioning part is a mounting position relative to the positioning reference part, and the component is mounted on the receiving member.

5. The manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The component has a lens.

6. The manufacturing method of the one-piece molded multi-optical transmission sheet assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The component includes: The substrate body, having the positioning portion, is mounted on the receiving member; and Optoelectronic components, wherein flip-chips are mounted on the substrate body.

Images