Garnet isolator structure, optical part and optical module

Abstract

The utility model discloses a garnet isolator structure, an optical part and an optical module, which comprises a polarizer and an analyzer which are arranged at an interval along the X-axis direction, and a first glass strip and a second glass strip which are arranged at an interval along the Z-axis direction are arranged between the polarizer and the analyzer. Garnet crystals are arranged between the first glass strip and the second glass strip. According to the garnet isolator, the manufacture cost of the garnet isolator can be effectively reduced while the isolation of the reverse light is effectively realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a garnet isolator structure, belonging to the field of optical module technology, and particularly to a garnet isolator structure, optical components, and optical module. Background Art

[0002] With the advent of the digital age, the internet industry has experienced rapid growth. This trend has directly led to a sustained increase in demand for network communication equipment. As a crucial component of network communication equipment, optical modules are also constantly innovating and developing to meet the growing market demand.

[0003] At the same time, the rapid rise of next-generation information technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and big data has significantly increased the demand for computing power, thereby accelerating the construction of cloud computing infrastructure. This development trend has led to an increasingly strong demand for high-speed optical modules such as 200G, 400G, 800G, and even 1.6T.

[0004] Among the core components of optical modules, free-space garnet isolators play a crucial role. They effectively prevent reflected light from affecting the laser, ensuring stable transmission of optical signals. However, a key component of free-space garnet isolators—the Faraday swivel plate—remains highly dependent on imports. These imported Faraday swivel plates are not only expensive but also have long delivery cycles, failing to meet customers' growing production capacity demands.

[0005] Therefore, developing a new garnet isolator structure to reduce manufacturing and maintenance costs, while also reducing reliance on imported components, has become an urgent problem for the optical module industry. Utility Model Content

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by this utility model is to address the technical defects existing in the prior art by providing a garnet isolator structure, optical components, and an optical module. This not only effectively achieves isolation of reverse light while reducing the manufacturing cost of the garnet isolator, but also effectively reduces the impact of temperature changes on the position of the optical components, reduces the risk of the garnet isolator falling off, and improves the overall stability and reliability of the optical module.

[0007] The technical solution adopted by this utility model to solve its technical problem is as follows: This utility model discloses a garnet isolator structure, including a polarizer and an analyzer arranged at intervals along the X-axis. A first glass strip and a second glass strip arranged at intervals along the Z-axis are provided between the polarizer and the analyzer. Garnet crystals are provided between the first glass strip and the second glass strip.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the polarizer and the analyzer are rotationally symmetrical about 180° with respect to the Y-axis.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the polarizer and the analyzer are right-angled trapezoids, and the first glass strip, the second glass strip, and the garnet crystal are cubes.

[0010] This utility model also discloses an optical component, including a slotted magnetic ring, on which a light array fixing clamp and the garnet isolator structure described above are provided.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the slotted magnetic ring is provided with a first feature groove for fixing the garnet isolator structure and a second feature groove for fixing the light array fixing clamp, and the first feature groove and the second feature groove are connected.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the width of the first feature groove is greater than the width of the second feature groove.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the width of the first feature groove is greater than the width of the polarizer and the detector.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, a garnet isolator positioning seat is provided in the first feature groove.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the light array fixing fixture includes a base with a V-groove and a cover plate.

[0016] This utility model also discloses an optical module, which includes optical components.

[0017] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: The novel garnet isolator structure proposed in this invention exhibits significant advantages in several aspects. First, it successfully breaks through technical bottlenecks by using garnet crystals to replace traditional Faraday spun plates, effectively solving the problem of dependence on imported components, while significantly reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs. This innovation not only improves the company's technological autonomy but also enhances its innovation capabilities in the field of optical modules.

[0018] In terms of structural design, this invention employs a unique combination of a polarizer, analyzer, glass strip, and garnet crystal to achieve highly efficient optical signal isolation. The polarizer and analyzer are designed with 180° rotational symmetry, improving the symmetry and stability of the structure. Simultaneously, the use of right-angled trapezoidal and cubic geometries greatly simplifies the processing and assembly process, improving production efficiency and meeting the growing market demand.

[0019] This invention also proposes an innovative optical component design, integrating a garnet isolator structure with a slotted magnetic ring and a fiber array fixing fixture, achieving a higher level of functional integration. The slotted magnetic ring features characteristic slots of varying widths to ensure precise installation of the garnet isolator structure and the fiber array fixing fixture. The introduced garnet isolator positioning seat further improves installation accuracy. Furthermore, the fiber array fixing fixture employs a base and cover design with V-grooves, allowing for flexible adaptation to fiber arrays of different sizes.

[0020] From a performance and cost perspective, this invention, through optimized structural design, is expected to significantly improve the performance of garnet isolators, meeting the stringent signal stability requirements of high-speed optical modules. Simultaneously, reducing reliance on imported components not only lowers overall costs but also enhances the product's market competitiveness. This cost advantage is of great significance in meeting ever-growing market demands. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. In the accompanying drawings:

[0022] Figure 1 Main view of the garnet isolator structure of this utility model;

[0023] Figure 2 Side view of the garnet isolator structure of this utility model;

[0024] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the optical components of this utility model;

[0025] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the optical components of this utility model;

[0026] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the optical components of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain this utility model and are not intended to limit this utility model.

[0028] Example 1

[0029] like Figure 1-2 As shown, this embodiment provides a garnet isolator structure. This invention achieves efficient optical signal isolation through component layout and material selection. The garnet isolator structure of this invention mainly consists of five key components, which are arranged in a specific manner in three-dimensional space to form a compact and efficient optical system.

[0030] In terms of overall layout, the garnet isolator structure has a polarizer 2 and an analyzer 4 spaced apart along the X-axis, located at opposite ends of the structure, functionally forming the start and end points of optical signal processing. Between the polarizer 2 and the analyzer 4, two glass strips are spaced apart along the Z-axis. The first glass strip 6 is closer to the polarizer, and the second glass strip 7 is closer to the analyzer. The garnet crystal 3, serving as the core of the structure, is precisely placed between the two glass strips, at the center of the entire structure.

[0031] Both polarizer 2 and analyzer 4 adopt a right-angled trapezoidal design. This shape not only facilitates optical signal processing but also makes the assembly and fixation of the entire structure easier. More notably, polarizer 2 and analyzer 4 are rotationally symmetrical about the Y-axis (180°). This symmetrical design not only enhances structural stability but also helps improve the consistency and reliability of optical signal processing. Although functionally different, polarizer 2 and analyzer 4 can have identical shapes, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing production costs.

[0032] In terms of material selection and shape design, the first glass strip 6, the second glass strip 7, and the garnet crystal 3 all adopt a cubic shape. This regular geometry facilitates precise processing and assembly, ensuring the stability and reliability of the entire structure. Particularly noteworthy is that the thickness of the first glass strip 6 is optimized to be twice that of the second glass strip 7. This asymmetrical thickness design is based on optical principles and practical application requirements, contributing to optimized optical signal transmission and processing.

[0033] When the optical signal enters the isolator structure, it first passes through polarizer 2, where it is adjusted to a specific polarization state. Then, the optical signal sequentially passes through the first glass strip 6, the garnet crystal 3, and the second glass strip 7. In this process, the garnet crystal 3 plays a crucial role, utilizing the Faraday effect to change the polarization direction of the optical signal. Finally, the optical signal reaches analyzer 4, where final signal processing is completed. Throughout the entire process, the precise arrangement and specific design of each component ensure that the optical signal can be transmitted in an optimal state, while effectively blocking any possible reverse signal interference.

[0034] The innovation of this embodiment is mainly reflected in three aspects. First, in terms of material selection, garnet crystals are used instead of traditional Faraday rotation plates, which not only improves performance but also reduces dependence on imported components. Second, in terms of structural design, a compact and efficient structure is achieved through carefully designed geometry and arrangement. Finally, the specific proportion of glass strip thickness demonstrates a deep understanding and application of optical principles.

[0035] In summary, the garnet isolator structure of this invention provides an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective solution for the optical communication field through optimized material selection, geometric design, and component arrangement. It not only solves the problem of dependence on imported components in existing technologies but also improves overall performance through ingenious structural design, and is expected to be widely used in future optical communication equipment.

[0036] Example 2

[0037] like Figure 3-5 As shown, this embodiment provides an optical component, which mainly consists of a slotted magnetic ring 5, a beam array fixing fixture 1, and an integrated garnet isolator. This design aims to improve the stability, reliability, and performance of the optical module while simplifying the assembly process.

[0038] The slotted magnetic ring 5 is the core supporting component of the entire structure. It contains two key feature slots: a first feature slot 5.1 and a second feature slot 5.2. The first feature slot 5.1 is used to fix the garnet isolator, while the second feature slot 5.2 is used to fix the light array fixing fixture 1. These two feature slots are connected, forming a complete optical path system. It is worth noting that the width of the first feature slot 5.1 is greater than the width of the second feature slot 5.2. This design takes into account the different size requirements of the garnet isolator and the light array fixing fixture 1, ensuring that each component can be precisely positioned and fixed.

[0039] The integrated garnet isolator consists of three main parts: a polarizer 2, a garnet crystal 3, and an analyzer 4. The integrated design of these three parts significantly improves the stability and reliability of the garnet isolator. Specifically, polarizer 2 and analyzer 4 are both right-angled trapezoids, while the garnet crystal 3 is a cube. All three components have the same width, ensuring the consistency and stability of the optical path.

[0040] In terms of assembly, polarizer 2 and analyzer 4 are arranged with 180° rotational symmetry relative to garnet crystal 3. This symmetrical design not only optimizes the optical path but also improves the transmission quality of the optical signal. Polarizer 2 and analyzer 4 are glued to both sides of garnet crystal 3, forming a stable whole. The two rectangular planes of garnet crystal 3 correspond in shape to the rectangular planes of polarizer 2 and analyzer 4; this precise geometric matching further improves the stability and optical performance of the assembly.

[0041] The design of the slotted magnetic ring 5 also takes into account the installation requirements of the garnet isolator. The width of the first feature slot 5.1 is greater than the width of the deflector 2. This design provides sufficient space for the installation and adjustment of the garnet isolator, which is conducive to precise positioning and fixation.

[0042] The fiber array mounting fixture 1 is a crucial component connecting the fiber array and the garnet isolator. It is installed in the second feature slot 5.2 of the slotted magnetic ring 5, ensuring precise alignment between the fiber array and the garnet isolator.

[0043] The design of this garnet isolator structure reflects several important technical considerations. First, the integrated design of the garnet isolator reduces the relative displacement that may occur in traditional multi-component garnet isolators, improving overall stability. Second, the design of the slotted magnetic ring 5 not only provides robust support but also achieves precise positioning of each component through a reasonable slot layout. Furthermore, the design of the first feature slot 5.1 being wider than the width of the garnet isolator facilitates the installation and adjustment of the garnet isolator, contributing to improved assembly efficiency and accuracy.

[0044] In summary, this garnet isolator structure, through innovative design and precise geometric configuration, effectively solves the problems of stability, reliability, and assembly difficulty inherent in traditional optical modules. It not only simplifies the manufacturing process but also improves product performance, providing an optimized solution for the field of high-speed optical communication.

[0045] Specifically, the right-angled trapezoidal design of polarizer 2 and analyzer 4, combined with the cubic shape of garnet crystal 3, forms a geometrically perfect whole. This design not only ensures the accuracy of the optical path but also increases the stability of the overall structure. The identical width design of polarizer 2, garnet crystal 3, and analyzer 4 further guarantees the consistency and stability of the optical signal during transmission.

[0046] The interconnected design of the first feature slot 5.1 and the second feature slot 5.2 inside the slotted magnetic ring 5 provides a continuous and stable channel for optical signal transmission. The design that the width of the first feature slot 5.1 is greater than the width of the second feature slot 5.2 not only meets the different size requirements of the garnet isolator and the optical array fixing fixture 1, but also provides more operating space for the installation and adjustment of the garnet isolator.

[0047] This garnet isolator structure is expected to play a significant role in practical applications, driving the further development of optical communication technology. It provides a stable and efficient foundational component for high-speed, high-reliability optical communication systems, helping to meet the ever-increasing demands for data transmission.

[0048] Example 3

[0049] Based on Example 1, this example further optimizes the structure of the garnet isolator, mainly in the design of the garnet isolator positioning base. This improvement aims to enhance the positioning accuracy and stability of the garnet isolator, thereby further improving the overall performance of the optical module.

[0050] Specifically, a dedicated garnet isolator positioning seat is provided within the first characteristic groove 5.1 of the slotted magnetic ring 5. The design and material selection of this positioning seat have been carefully considered. The positioning seat can be made of glass or ceramic, both of which have excellent thermal stability and mechanical strength, and can maintain shape stability under various working environments, thereby ensuring the precise positioning of the garnet isolator.

[0051] Four grooves are machined into the upper surface of the garnet isolator positioning base, a key innovation of this embodiment. These four grooves are not arbitrary but precisely calculated and positioned. This structural design allows for precise control of the center distance between the garnet isolators, ensuring the stability of their relative positions in the horizontal direction. Simultaneously, this design also allows for precise control of the angle between the garnet isolator and the transmitted light, which is crucial for ensuring the quality of optical signal transmission.

[0052] In practical applications, the integrated garnet isolator (consisting of a polarizer 2, a garnet crystal 3, and an analyzer 4) can be securely mounted on this positioning base. The design of the four grooves provides a clear installation position for the garnet isolator, greatly reducing human error and improving the accuracy and consistency of assembly.

[0053] This improved design solves the problem of inaccurate positioning of garnet isolators in traditional optical modules. The position and angle of the garnet isolator remain stable under temperature changes or external vibrations, which is crucial for maintaining the long-term reliability of the optical module.

[0054] Furthermore, the use of the garnet isolator positioning base simplifies the maintenance and replacement process. If it is necessary to replace the garnet isolator, simply remove the old garnet isolator from the positioning base and install the new garnet isolator into the preset groove; no complicated adjustment process is required.

[0055] This improved design, through precise control of the garnet isolator's position and angle, further enhances the performance and reliability of the garnet isolator structure. It not only improves the transmission quality of optical signals but also strengthens the stability of the entire optical module under various operating conditions, providing more reliable technical support for the development of high-speed optical communication systems.

[0056] Example 4

[0057] This embodiment details the manufacturing steps of the garnet isolator structure, demonstrating the entire process from a single optical element to a complete optical module. This manufacturing process embodies the characteristics of precision optical manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of each step and its impact on the performance of the final product.

[0058] Step 1: Assembly of the integrated garnet isolator

[0059] First, the polarizer 2 and analyzer 4 are respectively attached to both sides of the garnet crystal 3 to form a single integrated structure. This step requires highly precise alignment and a stable bonding process to ensure a perfect fit between the three components. During bonding, the adhesive layer thickness must be controlled to be uniform to avoid stress and thus ensure optical performance.

[0060] Step 2: Garnet separator particle separation

[0061] Large garnet spacers are separated into smaller pieces using a precision cutting machine. This step requires a cutting machine with high precision and good stability to ensure that each separated garnet spacer is of consistent size and has smooth, crack-free edges. The cutting speed and cooling process need to be controlled during cutting to avoid the impact of thermal stress on the performance of the garnet spacers.

[0062] Step 3: Grinding the garnet isolator

[0063] After the garnet granules are separated, both sides of the garnet isolator are precision ground to a specified angle to form a one-piece free-space garnet isolator. This step directly affects the optical performance of the garnet isolator and requires the use of high-precision grinding equipment and processes. During the grinding process, the angle and surface quality must be strictly controlled to ensure that the incident and exit angles of light meet the design requirements.

[0064] Step 4: Assembling the fiber optic array

[0065] First, the fiber optic tip is processed, and then a specialized assembly fixture is used to secure the V-groove substrate. Next, the processed fibers are placed in sequence, and then a glass cover plate is placed on top of the fibers, ensuring that the tip of the V-groove substrate is flush with the tip of the glass cover plate. Finally, UV optical adhesive is applied and cured to firmly bond the three components together. This step requires a high degree of precision and stability to ensure the correct positioning and fixation of the fiber optic cable within the V-groove.

[0066] Step 5: Fiber Array Endface Processing

[0067] The assembled array FA front-end fiber is then ground and polished. This step directly affects the transmission quality of the optical signal and requires the use of precision grinding and polishing equipment to control the polishing pressure, speed, and time in order to obtain the ideal end-face quality.

[0068] Step 6: Final assembly and debugging

[0069] First, UV adhesive is applied to the rear end of the slotted magnetic ring 5. Then, the array FA is placed at the rear end of the slotted magnetic ring 5, and the integrated garnet isolator is placed at the front end of the slotted magnetic ring 5. Precise adjustments are performed under the coupling machine until the acceptable specifications are met. Finally, the adhesive is cured to fix all optical components in the correct position. This step requires high-precision coupling equipment and skilled operation to ensure that the optical performance of the final product meets the design requirements.

[0070] It should be understood that the sequence number of each step in the above embodiments does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0071] It should be understood that those skilled in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A garnet isolator structure, characterized in that, It includes a polarizer (2) and a polarizer (4) arranged at intervals along the X-axis. A first glass strip (6) and a second glass strip (7) arranged at intervals along the Z-axis are provided between the polarizer (2) and the polarizer (4). A garnet crystal (3) is provided between the first glass strip (6) and the second glass strip (7).

2. The garnet isolator structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The polarizer (2) and the detector (4) are 180° rotationally symmetrical with respect to the Y-axis.

3. The garnet isolator structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The polarizer (2) and the analyzer (4) are right-angled trapezoids, and the first glass strip (6), the second glass strip (7) and the garnet crystal (3) are cubes.

4. An optical component, characterized in that: It includes a slotted magnetic ring (5), on which a light array fixing clamp (1) and a garnet isolator structure as described in any one of claims 1-3 are provided.

5. The optical component according to claim 4, characterized in that, The slotted magnetic ring (5) is provided with a first feature slot (5.1) for fixing the garnet isolator structure and a second feature slot (5.2) for fixing the light array fixing fixture (1), and the first feature slot (5.1) and the second feature slot (5.2) are connected.

6. The optical component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The width of the first feature groove (5.1) is greater than the width of the second feature groove (5.2).

7. The optical component according to claim 6, characterized in that, The width of the first feature groove (5.1) is greater than the width of the polarizer (2) and the detector (4).

8. The optical component according to claim 7, characterized in that, A garnet isolator positioning seat is provided in the first feature groove (5.1).

9. The optical component according to claim 4, characterized in that, The light array fixing fixture (1) includes a base (1.1) with a V-groove and a cover plate (1.2).

10. An optical module, characterized in that, Includes the optical components as described in any one of claims 4-9.

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