Optical fiber array connection structure

Abstract

This invention discloses a fiber optic array connection structure, relating to the field of fiber optic communication technology, including a socket, a fiber optic array, a locking component, and an unlocking component. The socket has a first end and a second end connected to each other. The second end is used to connect to a PIC substrate, and the first end has a socket with a first latching portion inside. The fiber optic array is partially inserted into the socket to mate with the PIC substrate. The locking component includes a fixing portion and an elastic portion. The fixing portion is fixedly connected to the fiber optic array, and the end of the elastic portion near the socket is connected to the fixing portion. The elastic portion has a second latching portion, which extends into the socket to engage with the first latching portion. The unlocking component is slidably connected to the fixing portion. The unlocking component is configured to drive the elastic portion closer to the fixing portion when sliding, thereby disengaging the second latching portion from the first latching portion. Sliding unlocking is achieved through the cooperation of the locking and unlocking components, eliminating the need for reserved space for rotational unlocking. The overall structure is more compact, and the mechanical locking provides a more secure connection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of optical fiber communication technology, and in particular to an optical fiber array connection structure. Background Technology

[0002] With the explosive growth in demand for AI (artificial intelligence) computing power, CPO (co-packaged optoelectronic) technology has become the core architecture for next-generation high-speed optical communication due to its advantages of high integration and low power consumption achieved by co-packaging the optical engine and switching chip. In a CPO system, the optical engine contains a PIC (photonic integrated circuit) substrate and an EIC (electronic integrated circuit) substrate integrated together through packaging technology. The PIC substrate achieves high-precision optical coupling with external optical fibers through a fiber array connection component, which is a passive device that connects the PIC substrate and the external optical fibers.

[0003] The current deployment space inside CPO modules is extremely compact, which places stringent requirements on the size and ease of assembly and disassembly of fiber optic array connectors. In related technologies, the locking structures of fiber optic array connectors mainly suffer from two types of problems: First, the use of a latching method requires tools for disassembly, and the latch needs to be rotated to unlock, requiring a large operating space in the fiber radial direction, which is unsuitable for the confined environment inside a CPO. Furthermore, the latch itself is quite thick, failing to meet the requirements of miniaturization design. Second, the use of a magnetic fixing design cannot guarantee a secure connection and suffers from insufficient locking stability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to propose a fiber optic array connection structure that aims to solve the problems of large space occupation and insufficient connection stability in related technologies.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the fiber optic array connection structure proposed in this invention includes a socket, a fiber optic array, a locking element, and an unlocking element. The socket has a first end and a second end connected to each other. The second end is used to connect to a PIC substrate. The first end has a socket with a first engaging portion inside the socket. The fiber optic array is partially inserted into the socket to mate with the PIC substrate. The locking element includes a fixing portion and an elastic portion. The fixing portion is fixedly connected to the fiber optic array. One end of the elastic portion near the socket is connected to the fixing portion. The elastic portion has a second engaging portion, which extends into the socket to engage with the first engaging portion. The unlocking element is slidably connected to the fixing portion. The unlocking element is configured to drive the elastic portion closer to the fixing portion when sliding, thereby disengaging the second engaging portion from the first engaging portion.

[0006] In one embodiment, the fixing part includes a fixing plate and a support plate; the fixing plate is fixedly connected to the fiber array, and the support plate is connected to the side of the fixing plate facing away from the fiber array; a sliding groove extending away from the socket is formed on the support plate, and a sliding protrusion is formed on the unlocking member, the sliding protrusion being slidably limited within the sliding groove.

[0007] In one embodiment, the fixing part includes two support plates, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the unlocking member, and each of the two support plates is formed with a sliding groove; the unlocking member is provided with sliding protrusions on both sides, and each sliding protrusion is slidably limited within a sliding groove.

[0008] In one embodiment, the support plate is provided with at least two sliding grooves, which are arranged in parallel or collinear order; the unlocking member is provided with at least two sliding protrusions, each of which is slidably confined within one of the sliding grooves.

[0009] In one embodiment, the unlocking member is provided with a clearance hole, one end of the elastic part near the socket is connected to the fixing part, and the other end of the elastic part away from the socket extends into the clearance hole and forms an unlocking surface. The unlocking surface is used to slide and engage with the inner wall of the clearance hole to drive the elastic part closer to the fixing part.

[0010] In one embodiment, the fixing part has a plurality of limiting protrusions on the side facing the optical fiber array, and the plurality of limiting protrusions are arranged along the periphery of the optical fiber array.

[0011] In one embodiment, the fiber optic array connection structure further includes a tray, which is fixedly connected to the first end. The tray has a limiting groove communicating with the socket, and the end of the fiber optic array away from the socket is slidably limited in the limiting groove.

[0012] In one embodiment, the end of the limiting groove away from the socket gradually expands in a direction away from the socket.

[0013] In one embodiment, the sidewall of the limiting groove is provided with a stop protrusion, and the fiber array portion extends into and is confined between the stop protrusion and the bottom wall of the limiting groove.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first end is further provided with a guide hole, and the fiber array is further provided with a positioning pin, which is inserted into the guide hole; the positioning pin is provided with an elastic element, which elastically abuts against the socket and the fiber array.

[0015] The technical solution of this invention employs a sliding unlocking structure with locking and unlocking components, integrating the locking mechanism into the socket's insertion hole. This eliminates the need for additional rotational unlocking space in the fiber optic radial direction, resulting in a more compact overall structure that fits within the limited deployment space of a CPO module, meeting miniaturization design requirements. Simultaneously, mechanical locking is achieved through the engagement of the first and second locking parts, providing a more robust connection and better locking stability compared to magnetic structures. Furthermore, the sliding unlocking mechanism can be pulled to achieve unlocking without the need for additional tools. The locking and unlocking components are integrated with the fiber optic array, making fiber optic array insertion and removal more convenient. Therefore, the fiber optic array connection structure of this invention effectively balances miniaturization and connection stability. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the fiber optic array connection structure provided by the present invention; Figure 2 for Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of the fiber optic array connection structure; Figure 3 for Figure 2 A magnified view of a section at point A in the middle; Figure 4 An exploded view of another embodiment of the fiber optic array connection structure provided by the present invention; Figure 5 for Figure 4 Exploded view of the middle section of the structure; Figure 6 for Figure 4 Cross-sectional view of the fiber optic array connection structure; Figure 7 for Figure 5 Exploded view of a fiber optic array; Figure 8 for Figure 4 Half-section view of the middle socket and tray.

[0018] Explanation of icon numbers: 100. Fiber optic array connection structure; 1. Socket; 11. First end; 11a. Socket hole; 11b. Guide hole; 111. First snap-fit ​​part; 12. Second end; 2. Fiber optic array; 21. Base plate; 21a. First fixing slot; 21b. Second fixing slot; 22. Fiber optic unit; 23. First pressure plate; 24. Second pressure plate; 24a. Third fixing slot; 25. Positioning pin; 26. First microlens; 27. Elastic element; 3. Locking component; 31. Fixing part; 311. Fixing plate; 3111. Limiting protrusion; 312. Support plate; 312a. Sliding groove; 32. Elastic part; 321. Second locking part; 322. Unlocking surface; 4. Unlocking component; 41. Sliding protrusion; 4a. Alternating hole; 5. Tray; 5a. Limiting groove; 51. Stop protrusion; 200, PIC substrate; 210, second microlens; 300, EIC substrate.

[0019] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0021] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0022] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0023] This invention proposes a fiber optic array connection structure 100.

[0024] Please see Figures 1 to 4 In one embodiment of the present invention, the fiber optic array connection structure 100 includes a socket 1, a fiber optic array 2, a locking member 3, and an unlocking member 4. The socket 1 has a first end 11 and a second end 12 connected to each other. The second end 12 is used to connect with the PIC substrate 200. The first end 11 forms a socket 11a, and a first snap-fit ​​portion 111 is provided in the socket 11a. The fiber optic array 2 is partially inserted into the socket 11a to mate with the PIC substrate 200. The locking member 3 includes a fixing part 31 and an elastic part 32. The fixing part 31 is fixedly connected to the fiber optic array 2. The end of the elastic part 32 near the socket 1 is connected to the fixing part 31. A second snap-fit ​​portion 321 is provided on the elastic part 32. The elastic part 32 extends into the socket 11a to snap the second snap-fit ​​portion 321 with the first snap-fit ​​portion 111. The unlocking member 4 is slidably connected to the fixing part 31. The unlocking member 4 is configured to drive the elastic part 32 closer to the fixing part 31 when sliding to disengage the second snap-fit ​​portion 321 from the first snap-fit ​​portion 111.

[0025] In this embodiment, the fiber array 2 receives a bare fiber array introduced from an external fiber optic cable. The socket 1 is fixed to the PIC substrate 200 and has a pre-formed alignment port. After insertion, the bare fiber end face forms a continuous low-loss connection with the PIC waveguide port. The EIC substrate 300 is located below the PIC substrate 200. Therefore, the fiber array connection structure 100 can be used inside a CPO module to achieve high-precision optical coupling between the PIC substrate 200 and the external fiber optic cable. This structure connects to the PIC substrate 200 via the socket 1. The fiber array 2 is inserted into the socket 1 to complete optical signal transmission. The locking element 3 and unlocking element 4 cooperate to fix and easily disassemble the fiber array 2. The overall structure is compact and suitable for space-constrained optical communication equipment.

[0026] Specifically, the socket 1 has a first end 11 and a second end 12 connected to each other. The second end 12 is used to connect to the PIC substrate 200. The first end 11 forms a socket 11a, and a first latching portion 111 is provided in the socket 11a. The socket 1 can be made of metal or engineering plastic. The shape of the socket 11a is adapted to the shape of the fiber array 2 to facilitate the insertion and positioning of the fiber array 2. The shape of the second latching portion 321 can be adapted to the first latching portion 111. When the elastic portion 32 extends into the socket 11a, the second latching portion 321 and the first latching portion 111 engage with each other, thereby locking the fiber array 2 in the socket 1 and preventing it from axially displacing or falling off under external force. Exemplarily, one of the first latching portion 111 and the second latching portion 321 can be a protrusion, and the other can be a groove adapted to the protrusion, so that the protrusion can be engaged in the groove to achieve latching.

[0027] The fiber array 2 is inserted into the socket 11a to mate with the PIC substrate 200.

[0028] For example, the fiber array 2 includes a base plate 21, a plurality of fiber units 22 and a first pressure plate 23; the base plate 21 is connected to one side of the tray 5, the first pressure plate 23 is fixedly connected to the base plate 21, the first pressure plate 23 is partially protruding from the base plate 21 and inserted into the limiting groove 5a along the first direction; the base plate 21 is provided with a plurality of parallel first fixing grooves 21a, and an optical fiber fixing channel is formed between the inner wall of each first fixing groove 21a and the first pressure plate 23, and each fiber unit 22 is limited to an optical fiber fixing channel.

[0029] The base plate 21 can be a flat plate structure made of materials such as ceramic or engineering plastic, and has opposing first and second surfaces. The first surface is used to abut against one side of the tray 5. The second surface of the base plate 21 is provided with a plurality of parallel first fixing grooves 21a. The first fixing grooves 21a can be groove structures with a V-shaped, U-shaped, or rectangular cross-section. The plurality of first fixing grooves 21a are evenly spaced along the width direction of the base plate 21 or arranged at a specific spacing according to the optical coupling requirements. The extension direction of the first fixing grooves 21a is consistent with the length direction of the base plate 21, and is used to accommodate and initially position the optical fiber unit 22. The number of first fixing grooves 21a is adapted to the number of optical fiber units 22, so that each optical fiber unit 22 can be embedded in the corresponding first fixing groove 21a.

[0030] The first pressure plate 23 can be a plate-shaped structure made of the same or similar material as the base plate 21. It has a mating surface opposite to the second surface of the base plate 21. The first pressure plate 23 is fixedly connected to the base plate 21, and the connection method can be adhesive bonding or other connection methods to ensure that the fiber unit 22 is reliably clamped. The first pressure plate 23 protrudes from the base plate 21, that is, the first pressure plate 23 extends beyond the end of the base plate 21 in the length direction, forming a cantilevered protrusion. This protrusion is used to insert into the limiting groove 5a of the socket 1 so that the fiber array 2 and the socket 1 can be aligned and positioned. The protrusion of the first pressure plate 23 is adapted to the groove width of the limiting groove 5a, so that the first pressure plate 23 can be smoothly inserted into the limiting groove 5a. After the first pressure plate 23 is fixedly connected to the base plate 21, an optical fiber fixing channel is formed between the inner wall of each first fixing groove 21a and the mating surface of the first pressure plate 23. The optical fiber unit 22 is clamped and confined within the optical fiber fixing channel to prevent the optical fiber unit 22 from shifting or loosening in the axial or radial direction, thus ensuring the stability of optical signal transmission and the accuracy of optical coupling.

[0031] It should be noted that the fiber optic unit 22 has two ends. One end extends into the fiber optic array 2 to achieve high-precision optical coupling with the PIC substrate 200, and the other end can be connected to the ferrule in the fiber optic connector to achieve interface connection with the CPO equipment chassis for interfacing with external devices. Multiple fiber optic units 22 in the fiber optic array 2 can be connected to the same fiber optic connector or to different fiber optic connectors to achieve multiple interface connections with the CPO equipment chassis, thereby enriching the cabling methods. In this embodiment, the connection method of the end of the fiber optic unit 22 furthest from the fiber optic array 2 is not limited.

[0032] It should also be noted that the fiber optic array 2 is a relatively mature product in the prior art. This embodiment does not limit the specific structure of the fiber optic array 2. The above description of the fiber optic array 2 is only an illustrative example and should not be regarded as a limitation of this embodiment.

[0033] The fixing part 31 can be fixed to the substrate of the fiber array 2 by means of adhesive or screw connection. Its structure can be plate-shaped to provide a stable installation base and fit the fiber array 2 well, avoiding excessive increase in the overall height after connection with the fiber array 2.

[0034] Preferably, the elastic part 32 can be a cantilever spring structure, and a protrusion or groove can be directly provided on the cantilever spring as the second locking part 321. The cantilever spring has a large elastic deformation range and good recovery stability, and is conducive to being connected to the fixing part 31 through an integral molding process. Alternatively, the elastic part 32 includes a rotating plate and a spring. The end of the rotating plate near the socket 1 is hinged to the fixing part 31, and the two ends of the spring abut against the ends of the rotating plate away from the socket 1 and the fixing part 31, respectively. The second locking part 321 is provided on the rotating plate. When the unlocking member 4 is pulled to slide away from the socket 1, the unlocking member 4 presses the rotating plate to compress the spring, so that the end of the rotating plate away from the socket 1 approaches the fixing part 31, thereby realizing the disengagement of the first locking part 111 from the second locking part 321.

[0035] The unlocking component 4 can be a handle structure for the operator to pull. Its sliding direction can be parallel to the axis of the fiber array 2 or at an acute angle. When the unlocking component 4 slides relative to the fixed part 31, the unlocking component 4 contacts the elastic part 32, pushing the elastic part 32 to deform towards the fixed part 31, thereby releasing the engagement between the second locking part 321 and the first locking part 111. At this time, the fiber array 2 can be pulled out of the socket 11a.

[0036] In the above structure, the fixing part 31 of the locking member 3 is fixedly connected to the fiber array 2, and the elastic part 32 is connected to the fixing part 31 and extends towards the socket 1. The second snap-fit ​​part 321 on the elastic part 32 snaps into the first snap-fit ​​part 111 inside the socket 1 socket hole 11a, thereby achieving axial locking of the fiber array 2. The unlocking member 4 is slidably connected to the fixing part 31. By driving the elastic part 32 to deform through the sliding unlocking member 4, the locked state is released. This mating relationship integrates the snap-fit ​​locking structure inside the socket 1 socket hole 11a, eliminating the need for additional rotation unlocking space in the fiber radial direction, effectively reducing the overall volume of the connection structure.

[0037] In addition, this embodiment employs a sliding unlocking method using locking element 3 and unlocking element 4. The engaging structure of the first latching part 111 and the second latching part 321 is located inside the socket 1 socket 11a, and locking and unlocking are achieved by the elastic deformation of the elastic part 32. In the locked state, the mechanical engagement of the first latching part 111 and the second latching part 321 provides a stable connection force, avoiding connection failure caused by magnetic force attenuation or external magnetic field interference. In the unlocked state, the elastic part 32 can be deformed by sliding the unlocking element 4, which is simple to operate and does not require additional tools. Since the locking element 3 and unlocking element 4 are integrated with the fiber optic array 2, the insertion and removal of the fiber optic array 2 is more convenient, and the overall structure is compact, which can meet the dual requirements of miniaturization and high stability in the small space inside the CPO module.

[0038] Please see Figures 5 to 6 In one embodiment of the present invention, the fixing part 31 includes a fixing plate 311 and a support plate 312; the fixing plate 311 is fixedly connected to the fiber array 2, and the support plate 312 is connected to the side of the fixing plate 311 facing away from the fiber array 2; a sliding groove 312a extending away from the socket 1 is formed on the support plate 312, and a sliding protrusion 41 is formed on the unlocking member 4, and the sliding protrusion 41 is slidably limited within the sliding groove 312a.

[0039] In this embodiment, the materials of the fixing plate 311 and the support plate 312 can be metal or engineering plastics, etc. When metal is used, the fixing plate 311, the support plate 312, and the elastic part 32 can be integrally formed using sheet metal processing. When engineering plastics are used, the fixing plate 311, the support plate 312, and the elastic part 32 can be integrally formed using injection molding. The fixing plate 311 can be fixedly connected to the fiber array 2 by bonding or screw connection, etc. A sliding groove 312a extending away from the socket 1 is formed on the support plate 312 to provide guidance and constraint for the sliding of the unlocking member 4. The length of the sliding groove 312a can be designed according to the sliding stroke of the unlocking member 4 to ensure that the unlocking member 4 can fully drive the elastic part 32 to deform, so that the second locking part 321 is completely disengaged from the first locking part 111.

[0040] The unlocking component 4 has a sliding protrusion 41, which is slidably contained within the sliding groove 312a. The shape of the sliding protrusion 41 is adapted to the cross-sectional shape of the sliding groove 312a, and its size can be slightly smaller than the size of the sliding groove 312a to ensure smooth sliding while avoiding excessive gaps that could cause the unlocking component 4 to wobble.

[0041] The unlocking component 4 and the support plate 312 are slidably connected through the cooperation of the sliding protrusion 41 and the sliding groove 312a. When the operator pushes the unlocking component 4, the sliding protrusion 41 slides away from the socket 1 along the sliding groove 312a, and the unlocking component 4 contacts the elastic part 32 and applies pressure, driving the elastic part 32 to deform towards the fixed part 31.

[0042] The extension direction of the sliding groove 312a forms a certain angle with the axis of the fiber array 2, that is, the extension direction of the sliding groove 312a forms a certain angle with the insertion direction of the fiber array 2, so that the sliding groove 312a is parallel to or at an acute angle to the axis of the fiber array 2. The operator can unlock the fiber by pulling the unlocking piece 4 along the sliding groove 312a and pressing the elastic part 32.

[0043] The sliding groove 312a guides and limits the sliding protrusion 41, ensuring that the unlocking member 4 maintains a stable direction and position during sliding, and preventing the unlocking member 4 from shifting, which could lead to uneven force on the elastic part 32 or unlocking failure. The limiting fit of the sliding protrusion 41 within the sliding groove 312a ensures a reliable connection between the unlocking member 4 and the fixing part 31, while allowing the unlocking member 4 to slide freely within a predetermined stroke, achieving a smooth switching between the locked and unlocked states.

[0044] Please see Figures 4 to 5 In one embodiment of the present invention, the fixing part 31 includes two support plates 312, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the unlocking member 4. Each of the two support plates 312 has a sliding groove 312a. The unlocking member 4 has sliding protrusions 41 on both sides, and each sliding protrusion 41 is slidably limited within a sliding groove 312a.

[0045] In this embodiment, two support plates 312 are respectively arranged on both sides of the unlocking member 4 to form a symmetrical support structure, which improves the stability of the unlocking member 4 when sliding; the sliding grooves 312a on the two support plates 312 can be symmetrically arranged about the central plane of the unlocking member 4 to ensure that the force on both sides of the unlocking member 4 is balanced and to avoid deflection or jamming during the sliding process.

[0046] Two support plates 312 clamp and limit the unlocking component 4 from both sides, and the sliding protrusions 41 on both sides are respectively embedded in the corresponding sliding grooves 312a to form a double-sided guide structure. When the operator pushes or pulls the unlocking component 4, the sliding protrusions 41 on both sides slide synchronously along their respective sliding grooves 312a, and the unlocking component 4 moves in a posture parallel to the sliding grooves 312a, which helps to ensure that the unlocking component 4 can be pulled smoothly and stably, and facilitates the operation of the operator.

[0047] Please see Figures 4 to 5 In one embodiment of the present invention, the support plate 312 is provided with at least two sliding grooves 312a, which are arranged in parallel or collinear order; the unlocking member 4 is provided with at least two sliding protrusions 41, each of which is slidably limited within a sliding groove 312a.

[0048] In this embodiment, the support plate 312 is provided with at least two sliding grooves 312a, which are arranged in parallel or collinearly. That is, the number of sliding grooves 312a can be two, three or more. When two sliding grooves 312a are arranged along the length direction of the support plate 312, a multi-point guiding structure can be formed. When at least two sliding grooves 312a are arranged in parallel or collinearly, the extension direction of each sliding groove 312a is consistent, and the unlocking member 4 slides in a single direction, making the operation intuitive and the guidance clear. Correspondingly, the unlocking member 4 is provided with at least two sliding protrusions 41, each sliding protrusion 41 being slidably confined within a sliding groove 312a.

[0049] In this embodiment, the cooperation of multiple sets of sliding protrusions 41 and sliding grooves 312a effectively restricts the rotational freedom of the unlocking member 4 around the sliding protrusions 41, preventing the unlocking member 4 from deflecting or twisting during sliding. When the unlocking member 4 is subjected to asymmetrical external forces, at least two sliding protrusions 41 abut against the sidewalls of their respective sliding grooves 312a, generating a reaction force against the rotational torque, keeping the unlocking member 4 in a stable sliding posture, and preventing the unlocking member 4 from getting stuck in a narrow installation space due to rotation.

[0050] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 6 In one embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking member 4 is provided with a clearance hole 4a, the end of the elastic part 32 near the socket 1 is connected to the fixing part 31, the end of the elastic part 32 away from the socket 1 extends into the clearance hole 4a and forms an unlocking surface 322, the unlocking surface 322 is used to slide and cooperate with the inner wall of the clearance hole 4a to drive the elastic part 32 to approach the fixing part 31.

[0051] In this embodiment, the unlocking member 4 is provided with a clearance hole 4a, which can be a through hole or a blind hole, and its shape can be adapted to the shape of the elastic part 32. The position of the clearance hole 4a on the unlocking member 4 corresponds to the end of the elastic part 32 away from the socket 1. When the unlocking member 4 is installed on the fixing part 31, the end of the elastic part 32 away from the socket 1 extends into the clearance hole 4a. The clearance hole 4a provides movement space for the end of the elastic part 32, avoiding interference between the elastic part 32 and the unlocking member 4.

[0052] One end of the elastic part 32 near the socket 1 is connected to the fixed part 31, and the other end of the elastic part 32 away from the socket 1 extends into the clearance hole 4a and forms an unlocking surface 322. The other end of the elastic part 32 away from the socket 1 is a free end, which extends into the clearance hole 4a and forms the unlocking surface 322. The unlocking surface 322 can be a bevel or a curved surface.

[0053] The unlocking surface 322 is used to slide against the inner wall of the clearance hole 4a to drive the elastic part 32 closer to the fixed part 31. During the sliding process of the unlocking member 4 away from the socket 1, the unlocking surface 322 contacts the inner wall of the clearance hole 4a and generates relative sliding. The normal component of the inclined surface pushes the elastic part 32 to deform in the direction closer to the fixed part 31, so that the second locking part 321 disengages from the first locking part 111.

[0054] After the elastic part 32 and the fiber array 2 are pulled out of the socket 11a, under the action of the elastic force of the elastic part 32 itself, the unlocking surface 322 contacts the inner wall of the clearance hole 4a and produces a reverse relative sliding, so that the unlocking member 4 slides closer to the socket 1 to achieve reset, so as to unlock the next operation.

[0055] Based on the above description, the sliding contact between the inner wall of the clearance hole 4a and the unlocking surface 322 converts the linear motion of the unlocking member 4 into a lateral driving force on the elastic part 32, further compressing the radial dimension of the fiber array connection structure 100, so that the fiber array connection structure 100 can have smooth and reliable unlocking performance while maintaining miniaturization.

[0056] Please see Figures 5 to 6 In one embodiment of the present invention, the fixing part 31 is provided with a plurality of limiting protrusions 3111 on the side facing the fiber array 2, and the plurality of limiting protrusions 3111 are arranged along the periphery of the fiber array 2.

[0057] In this embodiment, the number of limiting protrusions 3111 can be two, three, or more. Two limiting protrusions 3111 can be arranged opposite each other along the radial direction of the fiber array 2 to form an opposing clamping structure; three or more limiting protrusions 3111 can be evenly distributed along the circumference of the fiber array 2 to form a multi-point positioning structure. The limiting protrusions 3111 and the fixing part 31 can be integrally formed or separately assembled. The integrally formed limiting protrusions 3111 have better structural strength and dimensional accuracy, while the separately assembled limiting protrusions 3111 are easier to adjust and replace according to the external dimensions of the fiber array 2.

[0058] When the limiting protrusions 3111 are arranged along the periphery of the fiber array 2, each limiting protrusion 3111 contacts the outer surface of the first pressure plate 23 and the second pressure plate 24 of the fiber array 2, restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the fiber array 2 in a plane perpendicular to its axis. When the top of the fiber array 2 is rectangular, the limiting protrusions 3111 can be arranged on the four sides or three sides of the substrate. Multiple limiting protrusions 3111 together enclose a limiting space, within which the substrate of the fiber array 2 is embedded.

[0059] Based on the above description, the fixing part 31 contacts the outer periphery of the substrate of the fiber array 2 through the limiting protrusion 3111, positioning the fiber array 2 at a predetermined position on the fixing part 31. When the fiber array 2 is subjected to a lateral force perpendicular to its axis, the limiting protrusion 3111 abuts against the side of the substrate, generating a reaction force to resist lateral displacement, preventing the fiber array 2 from slipping or deflecting on the fixing part 31. When multiple limiting protrusions 3111 are distributed along the periphery, they can provide constraints on the fiber array 2 from different directions, keeping the axis of the fiber array 2 aligned with the axis of the socket 11a, ensuring that the fiber array 2 can smoothly and precisely dock with the PIC substrate 200 when inserted into the socket 11a.

[0060] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 8 In one embodiment of the present invention, the fiber optic array connection structure 100 further includes a tray 5, which is fixedly connected to the first end 11. The tray 5 forms a limiting groove 5a that communicates with the socket 11a. The end of the fiber optic array 2 away from the socket 1 is slidably limited in the limiting groove 5a.

[0061] In this embodiment, the tray 5 and the first end 11 can be fixedly connected by embedding, bonding, or screw connection. The material of the tray 5 can be metal or engineering plastic. The tray 5 has a limiting groove 5a communicating with the socket 11a. The cross-sectional shape of the limiting groove 5a is adapted to the shape of the fiber array 2, for example, a rectangular limiting groove 5a mates with the rectangular cross-section of the fiber array 2 substrate. The width of the limiting groove 5a can be slightly larger than the width of the fiber array 2 substrate to provide smooth sliding space while avoiding excessive gaps that could cause the fiber array 2 to wobble. The length of the limiting groove 5a can be designed according to the sliding stroke of the fiber array 2 to ensure that the fiber array 2 is always constrained by the limiting groove 5a during insertion and removal. The limiting groove 5a communicates with the socket 11a, allowing the fiber array 2 to smoothly enter the socket 11a from the limiting groove 5a, maintaining the continuity of the movement trajectory.

[0062] After the fiber optic array 2 is inserted into the socket 11a, the limiting groove 5a provides support and limitation for the end of the fiber optic array 2 away from the socket 1. On the one hand, the tray 5 bears part of the weight of the fiber optic array 2, distributing the load on the socket 1 and reducing stress concentration at the root of the fiber optic array 2. On the other hand, when the fiber optic array 2 is subjected to a lateral force or bending moment perpendicular to its axis, the sidewall of the limiting groove 5a abuts against the outer surface of the fiber optic array 2, providing a reaction force to resist lateral displacement and rotation, keeping the fiber optic array 2 in a stable docking posture, which is beneficial to the service life of the fiber optic array connection structure 100.

[0063] Please see Figure 4 and 8 In one embodiment of the present invention, the end of the limiting groove 5a away from the socket 1 is gradually expanded in the direction away from the socket 1.

[0064] In this embodiment, the end of the limiting groove 5a furthest from the socket 1 gradually expands in the direction away from the socket 1. This expansion section can be tapered or arc-shaped. With tapered expansion, the sidewall of the expansion section is a straight inclined surface, which is easy to process and provides clear guidance; with arc-shaped expansion, the sidewall of the expansion section is a curved surface, resulting in a smoother transition. This expansion arrangement creates an expansion opening at the end of the limiting groove 5a furthest from the socket 1, and the width of this expansion opening is greater than the width of the end of the limiting groove 5a closest to the socket 1. When the end of the fiber array 2 furthest from the socket 1 approaches the limiting groove 5a, even if there is a certain deviation between the end position of the fiber array 2 and the center of the limiting groove 5a, the wide entrance of the expansion opening can accommodate the end of the fiber array 2, allowing the fiber array 2 to gradually move closer to the center position of the limiting groove 5a during continued insertion. The sidewall of the expansion opening guides the end of the fiber array 2, converting the lateral offset of the fiber array 2 into sliding motion along the expansion inclined surface, allowing the fiber array 2 to automatically center.

[0065] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 8 In one embodiment of the present invention, a stop protrusion 51 is provided on the side wall of the limiting groove 5a, and the fiber array 2 extends into and is limited between the stop protrusion 51 and the bottom wall of the limiting groove 5a.

[0066] In this embodiment, the stop protrusion 51 can be one, two or more. For example, a single stop protrusion 51 can be arranged on one side wall of the limiting groove 5a, and two stop protrusions 51 can be arranged on the two side walls of the limiting groove 5a respectively to form an opposing clamping structure.

[0067] The fiber optic array 2 extends into and is confined between the stop protrusion 51 and the bottom wall of the limiting groove 5a. The substrate of the fiber optic array 2 is embedded in the space between the stop protrusion 51 and the bottom wall of the limiting groove 5a. The distance between the stop protrusion 51 and the bottom wall can be slightly greater than or equal to the thickness of the entire fiber optic array 2 or the base plate 21 of the fiber optic array 2. When the distance is greater than or equal to the thickness of the entire fiber optic array 2, the entire fiber optic array 2 is embedded between the stop protrusion 51 and the bottom wall of the limiting groove 5a. When the distance is greater than or equal to the thickness of the base plate 21 of the fiber optic array 2, only the base plate 21 of the fiber optic array 2 is embedded between the stop protrusion 51 and the bottom wall of the limiting groove 5a.

[0068] The two side walls, bottom wall, and stop protrusion 51 of the limiting groove 5a together form a three-sided constraint space. The substrate of the fiber array 2 is embedded in this space, and its three degrees of freedom of movement in the plane perpendicular to the axial direction are restricted. When the fiber array 2 is subjected to external forces from different directions, the side walls, bottom walls, or stop protrusions 51 of the limiting groove 5a abut against the corresponding surfaces of the substrate of the fiber array 2, generating a reaction force to resist displacement, so that the fiber array 2 is stably maintained in the predetermined position of the limiting groove 5a.

[0069] Based on the above description, the sidewall of the limiting groove 5a restricts the left and right degrees of freedom of the fiber array 2, the bottom wall of the limiting groove 5a restricts the downward degree of freedom of the fiber array 2, and the stop protrusion 51 restricts the upward degree of freedom of the fiber array 2. The three work together to provide multi-directional limiting constraints for the fiber array 2. This structure, through the combination of the limiting groove 5a and the stop protrusion 51, ensures that the fiber array 2 is stably supported and constrained in a plane perpendicular to its axis, preventing the fiber array 2 from dislodging, tilting, or shifting laterally when subjected to external disturbances. This allows the fiber array 2 to maintain a stable posture during insertion / removal and docking, improving the positioning accuracy and connection reliability of the fiber array connection structure 100.

[0070] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 8In one embodiment of the present invention, the first end 11 is further provided with a guide hole 11b, and the fiber array 2 is further provided with a positioning pin 25, which is inserted into the guide hole 11b; the positioning pin 25 is provided with an elastic element 27, which elastically abuts against the socket 1 and the fiber array 2.

[0071] In conjunction with the above description of the fiber array 2, in this embodiment, the fiber array 2 further includes a second pressure plate 24 and a positioning pin 25; the base plate 21 is also provided with a second fixing groove 21b, and the second pressure plate 24 is provided with a third fixing groove 24a. The second pressure plate 24 is fixedly connected to the base plate 21, and the second fixing groove 21b and the third fixing groove 24a enclose a positioning pin 25 fixing channel, and the positioning pin 25 is limited to the positioning pin 25 fixing channel; the first end 11 is also provided with a positioning hole, and the positioning pin 25 is inserted into the positioning hole.

[0072] The second pressure plate 24 can adopt the same plate-like structure as the first pressure plate 23, and is disposed on the edge area of ​​the first or second surface of the base plate 21, arranged parallel to the first pressure plate 23. The base plate 21 is also provided with a second fixing groove 21b, which can be a groove structure with a V-shaped, U-shaped or semi-circular cross-section, and its extension direction is parallel to the first fixing groove 21a. The second pressure plate 24 is provided with a third fixing groove 24a, the cross-sectional shape of which is the same as and symmetrical to that of the second fixing groove 21b. When the second pressure plate 24 is fixedly connected to the base plate 21, the second fixing groove 21b and the third fixing groove 24a enclose a fixing channel for the positioning pin 25, so that the positioning pin 25 can be clamped and confined within the fixing channel. It should be noted that the above connection method between the positioning pin 25 and the fiber array 2 is only an exemplary example and should not be regarded as a limitation of this embodiment.

[0073] The positioning pin 25 can be a cylindrical structure made of materials such as metal or ceramic. The axis of the positioning pin 25 is parallel to the arrangement direction of the optical fiber unit 22. The positioning pin 25 is confined within the positioning pin 25 fixing channel, and one end of it can extend from the positioning pin 25 fixing channel and extend towards the socket 1 for insertion and engagement with the positioning hole on the socket 1. This embodiment does not limit the number of positioning pins 25. Preferably, two positioning pins 25 can be provided and symmetrically arranged on both sides of multiple optical fiber units 22.

[0074] The first end 11 of the socket 1 is also provided with a positioning hole. The positioning hole can be a circular through hole or a blind hole opened on the end face of the first end 11. The position of the positioning hole is adapted to the positioning pin 25, and the diameter of the positioning hole is adapted to the positioning pin 25, so that the positioning pin 25 can be smoothly inserted and is radially constrained by the hole wall. When the connector is plugged into the socket 1, the positioning pin 25 can be inserted into the positioning hole before or simultaneously with the mating end face of the optical fiber unit 22.

[0075] The insertion and engagement of the positioning pin 25 with the positioning hole enables precise positioning between the fiber array 2 and the socket 1. This positioning method ensures the parallelism between the multiple fiber units 22 in the fiber array 2 and the waveguide ports on the PIC substrate 200. In the CPO system, the waveguide ports on the PIC substrate 200 are typically arranged in parallel with extremely high precision. The fiber units 22 need to correspond one-to-one with these waveguide ports and achieve high-efficiency optical coupling. This requires that the axial directions of the multiple fiber units 22 maintain a strict parallel relationship with the axial directions of the waveguide ports. For example, the engagement length between the positioning pin 25 and the positioning hole can be set to 1.9 mm, and the maximum difference between the outer diameter of the positioning pin 25 and the inner diameter of the positioning hole is 0.001 mm. Therefore, the maximum tilt angle θmax generated when the positioning pin 25 is inserted into the positioning hole is θmax = arctan[(0.001 / 2) / 1.9] ≈ arctan(0.00026316) ≈ 0.00026316 rad ≈ 0.0151°. Therefore, the positioning pin 25 can theoretically tilt by about 0.0151° in the positioning hole. This mating angle is much less than 2°, and also much less than the angle error produced by some mating methods in the market.

[0076] The positioning pin 25 is equipped with an elastic element 27, which elastically abuts against the socket 1 and the fiber array 2. The elastic element 27 can be a spring, a spring sheet, or an elastic sleeve, etc. Taking a spring as an example, the spring can be sleeved on the outer periphery of the positioning pin 25, with one end abutting against the end face of the socket 1 or the bottom wall of the guide hole 11b, and the other end abutting against the end face of the base plate 21 of the fiber array 2, generating an elastic force along the axial direction of the positioning pin 25. This elastic force keeps the fiber array 2 and the socket 1 in a taut state. After the fiber array 2 is inserted into the socket 11a and docked with the PIC substrate 200, the elastic force of the elastic element 27 continues to act on the fiber array 2, preventing the fiber array 2 from axially shifting or loosening within the socket 1, and keeping the connection between the fiber array 2 and the socket 1 stable and secure. When the fiber array 2 is subjected to external vibration or impact, the elastic force of the elastic element 27 can respond quickly and maintain a pressed state, avoiding a decrease in optical coupling efficiency due to instantaneous displacement of the fiber array 2.

[0077] The elastic element 27 also enables the fiber optic array 2 to automatically reset and pop out upon unlocking. When the operator slides the unlocking element 4 to disengage the second latching part 321 from the first latching part 111, the elastic force of the elastic element 27 loses the constraint of the locking structure, pushing the fiber optic array 2 to move away from the socket 1, causing the fiber optic array 2 to automatically pop out partially from the socket 11a. This automatic reset and pop-out function allows the operator to remove the fiber optic array 2 without additional pulling, simplifying the disassembly process and improving the ease of insertion and removal of the fiber optic array 2.

[0078] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 7In one embodiment of the present invention, the fiber array 2 further includes a first microlens 26, which is attached to one end of the first pressure plate 23 near the socket 1. One end of the plurality of fiber units 22 near the socket 1 is connected to the first microlens 26. A second microlens 210 is also provided in the socket 11a. The second microlens 210 is used to connect to the PIC substrate 200. The second microlens 210 is arranged opposite to the first microlens 26.

[0079] In this embodiment, the first microlens 26 and the second microlens 210 can be fabricated using femtosecond laser processing to generate a microlens array at the PIC substrate 200 end and the fiber array 2 end, or the microlens array device can be directly mounted. The first microlens 26 is used to shape the beam output from the fiber to the PIC, for example, to collimate the light reflected from the fiber in multiple directions to accurately direct it to the waveguide port of the PIC. The second microlens 210 is used to focus the beam directed from the first microlens 26 to the waveguide port of the PIC before it enters the waveguide port of the PIC.

[0080] For example, taking the mounting of a microlens array device as an example, a first microlens 26 is mounted on the end face of the first pressure plate 23 facing the limiting member. The lens can be a quartz or silicon-based planar convex lens array. The number of lens units of the first microlens 26 corresponds one-to-one with the optical fiber. After the bare fiber end face of each optical fiber is glued with ultraviolet glue, it is coupled and cured with the back of the corresponding lens unit to form an integral light-emitting surface. A second microlens 210 is fixed in the socket 11a. The structure of the second microlens 210 is a mirror image of the first microlens 26. Its back is bonded to the PIC substrate 200 with epoxy glue or solder. Each lens unit of the second microlens 210 corresponds one-to-one with the PIC wave inlet. The second microlens 210 and the first microlens 26 are arranged opposite each other. The gap between them is maintained as an air gap or a micron-level gap that can be filled with refractive index matching glue after insertion, so as to avoid hard contact between the two lenses. In this way, by coupling each optical fiber end face to the first microlens 26, and by aligning the first microlens 26 with the second microlens 210, the optical paths are connected. There is no need to perform additional precise positioning on each optical fiber, which reduces the complexity of the manufacturing process and saves production costs.

[0081] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings under the technical concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A fiber optic array connection structure, characterized in that, The fiber optic array connection structure includes: The socket (1) has a first end (11) and a second end (12) connected to each other. The second end (12) is used to connect to the PIC substrate (200). The first end (11) has a socket (11a) and a first snap-fit ​​portion (111) is provided in the socket (11a). Fiber optic array (2), wherein part of the fiber optic array (2) is inserted into the socket (11a) to dock with the PIC substrate (200); Locking component (3), the locking component (3) includes a fixing part (31) and an elastic part (32), the fixing part (31) is fixedly connected to the fiber array (2), the elastic part (32) is connected to the fixing part (31) at one end near the socket (1), the elastic part (32) is provided with a second snap-fit ​​part (321), the elastic part (32) extends into the socket (11a) so that the second snap-fit ​​part (321) snaps with the first snap-fit ​​part (111); The unlocking member (4) is slidably connected to the fixing part (31). The unlocking member (4) is configured to drive the elastic part (32) closer to the fixing part (31) when sliding so that the second latching part (321) disengages from the first latching part (111).

2. The fiber optic array connection structure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The fixing part (31) includes a fixing plate (311) and a support plate (312); The fixing plate (311) is fixedly connected to the fiber array (2), and the support plate (312) is connected to the side of the fixing plate (311) facing away from the fiber array (2). The support plate (312) has a sliding groove (312a) extending away from the socket (1), and the unlocking member (4) has a sliding protrusion (41) which is slidably limited within the sliding groove (312a).

3. The fiber optic array connection structure as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The fixing part (31) includes two support plates (312), which are respectively disposed on both sides of the unlocking member (4), and the sliding groove (312a) is formed on both support plates (312). The unlocking member (4) is provided with sliding protrusions (41) on both sides, and each sliding protrusion (41) is slidably limited within a sliding groove (312a).

4. The fiber optic array connection structure as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The support plate (312) is provided with at least two sliding grooves (312a), and the at least two sliding grooves (312a) are arranged in parallel or collinear. The unlocking member (4) is provided with at least two sliding protrusions (41), each of the sliding protrusions (41) being slidably limited within a sliding groove (312a).

5. The fiber optic array connection structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The unlocking member (4) is provided with a clearance hole (4a). The end of the elastic part (32) near the socket (1) is connected to the fixing part (31). The end of the elastic part (32) away from the socket (1) extends into the clearance hole (4a) and forms an unlocking surface (322). The unlocking surface (322) is used to slide and cooperate with the inner wall of the clearance hole (4a) to drive the elastic part (32) to approach the fixing part (31).

6. The fiber optic array connection structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The fixing part (31) is provided with a plurality of limiting protrusions (3111) on the side facing the fiber array (2), and the plurality of limiting protrusions (3111) are arranged along the periphery of the fiber array (2).

7. The fiber optic array connection structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The fiber array connection structure also includes a tray (5), which is fixedly connected to the first end (11). The tray (5) forms a limiting groove (5a) that communicates with the socket (11a). The end of the fiber array (2) away from the socket (1) is slidably limited in the limiting groove (5a).

8. The fiber optic array connection structure as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The limiting groove (5a) is gradually expanded at one end away from the socket (1) in a direction away from the socket (1).

9. The fiber optic array connection structure as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The side wall of the limiting groove (5a) is provided with a stop protrusion (51), and the fiber array (2) extends into and is limited between the stop protrusion (51) and the bottom wall of the limiting groove (5a).

10. The fiber optic array connection structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first end (11) is also provided with a guide hole (11b), and the fiber array (2) is also provided with a positioning pin (25), which is inserted into the guide hole (11b). The positioning pin (25) is provided with an elastic element (27), which elastically abuts against the socket (1) and the fiber array (2).

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