Insertion core for optical module and optical module port connecting mechanism

By designing ferrules and rotating parts for optical modules, combined with MPO connectors, the optical path connection problem of multi-core optical fibers was solved, enabling normal optical path transmission and effective space utilization.

CN224190276UActive Publication Date: 2026-05-01HYC CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
HYC CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-06-04
Publication Date
2026-05-01

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing optical modules cannot effectively connect multi-core optical fibers, and the use of LC connectors changes the connection methods of existing module manufacturers and end customers, increasing the space occupied by connecting optical modules to external optical fibers.

Method used

Design a ferrule for an optical module, including a ferrule body and a rotating component. The rotating component is used to adjust the alignment of the mating end of a single-core optical fiber with the core of a multi-core optical fiber. Combined with an MPO connector, optical path connectivity is achieved while keeping the external space of the optical module from increasing.

Benefits of technology

It enables normal optical path transmission of multi-core optical fibers, while meeting user needs and not increasing the space occupied by connecting external optical fibers to the optical module.

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Abstract

The utility model belongs to the technical field of optical fiber butt joint, and discloses an insertion core for an optical module and an optical module port connecting mechanism. The insertion core for the optical module comprises an insertion core body, two rotating parts and two single-core optical fiber groups, wherein two through holes are formed in the insertion core body at intervals; the two rotating pieces and the two through holes are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence mode, and the rotating pieces are inserted into the corresponding through holes and can rotate relative to the through holes; the two single-core optical fiber groups and the two rotating parts are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence manner, each single-core optical fiber group comprises a plurality of single-core optical fibers, the butt joint ends of the plurality of single-core optical fibers penetrate through and are fixed in the rotating parts, the butt joint surfaces of the single-core optical fibers are flush with the outer wall surface of the insertion core body, and when the rotating parts are rotated, the single-core optical fibers penetrate through the single-core optical fibers. And the butt joint ends of the plurality of single-core optical fibers can be aligned with a plurality of cores of the multi-core optical fiber of the connector one by one. According to the utility model, while the multi-core optical fiber is introduced and the MPO connector is continuously used to meet the use requirement of a user, the normal transmission of an optical path can be ensured, and the space occupied by the optical module for connecting an external optical fiber is not increased.
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Description

A ferrule for an optical module and an optical module port connection mechanism Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of optical fiber docking technology, and in particular to a ferrule for an optical module and an optical module port connection mechanism. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of optical fiber technology, multi-core fiber (MCF) has emerged to meet the needs of high-density and high-efficiency interconnection cabling in high-speed and high-capacity optical fiber communication systems. MCF contains multiple cores in its cladding region, thus providing a larger transmission channel.

[0003] Current optical modules connect to connectors via single-core optical fibers. To accommodate multi-core optical fibers, related technologies introduce receiver assemblies. The optical module connects to the connector via the receiver assembly, where multiple single-core optical fibers extending from the optical module port are bundled together. Then, an LC (Lucent Connector) connector, carrying the multi-core fibers, is mated to these single-core fibers within the receiver assembly. However, the mating structure of the receiver assembly in this technology is only compatible with LC connectors, requiring a corresponding LC connector to be used externally on the optical module. MPO (Multi-fiber Push-On) connectors are high-density fiber optic connectors, and current module manufacturers and end-users primarily connect optical modules using MPO connectors. The aforementioned use of LC connectors alters the existing connection methods used by module manufacturers and end-users, failing to adequately meet user needs and increasing the space occupied by connecting external optical fibers to the optical module. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a ferrule and port connection mechanism for optical modules to solve the aforementioned technical problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a ferrule for optical modules and an optical module port connection mechanism. While introducing multi-core optical fibers and continuing to use MPO connectors to better meet the user's needs, it can ensure the normal transmission of the optical path and will not increase the space required for connecting the optical module to external optical fibers.

[0005] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] On one hand, a ferrule for an optical module is provided, the ferrule being configured to be disposed at a port of an optical module body, the ferrule comprising:

[0007] The ferrule body has two through holes spaced apart.

[0008] Two rotating components are provided, each corresponding to one of the two through holes. The rotating components are inserted into the corresponding through holes and can rotate relative to the through holes.

[0009] Two sets of single-core fiber optic groups are provided, with each set corresponding to one of the two rotating components. Each set of single-core fiber optic groups includes multiple single-core fibers. In each set of single-core fiber optic groups, the mating ends of the multiple single-core fibers are inserted and fixed inside the rotating component. The mating surfaces of the single-core fibers are flush with the outer wall surface of the ferrule body. When the rotating component is rotated, the mating ends of the multiple single-core fibers are configured to align with the multiple cores of the multi-core fiber.

[0010] In some possible implementations, each group of the single-core optical fiber sets has four single-core optical fibers, and the four single-core optical fiber connectors are arranged in a square within the rotating component.

[0011] In some possible implementations, the ferrule body is provided with a guide pin configured to engage with a guide pin hole of the connector.

[0012] In some possible implementations, there are two guide pins arranged at intervals, and the line connecting the axes of the two guide pins is used as a reference line. In each group of single-core optical fibers, the line connecting the axes of the mating ends of the two single-core optical fibers can be parallel to the reference line.

[0013] In some possible implementations, the rotating component is provided with a plurality of limiting holes, which penetrate the opposite end faces of the rotating component along the length direction. The plurality of limiting holes are provided in a one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of single-core optical fibers, and the mating end of each single-core optical fiber is inserted into and fixed in the corresponding limiting hole.

[0014] In some possible implementations, the end face of the first end of the rotating member is recessed with a conical groove, and the conical groove is in communication with the plurality of limiting holes.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the rotating element can be bonded to the ferrule body.

[0016] In some possible implementations, the second end of the rotating member is chamfered.

[0017] In some possible implementations, the through hole is a cylindrical hole, the rotating member is a cylindrical rod, the cylindrical rod is fitted with the cylindrical hole, and the cylindrical rod can rotate relative to the cylindrical hole.

[0018] On the other hand, an optical module port connection mechanism is provided, including a connector and an optical module ferrule as described in any of the above embodiments. The optical module ferrule is configured to be disposed at a port of the optical module body. The connector includes a ferrule, and the ferrule has a plurality of ferrule holes. Among the plurality of ferrule holes, two of the ferrule holes are each inserted with a multi-core optical fiber. The two multi-core optical fibers are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with two groups of single-core optical fibers. When the rotating component is rotated, the mating ends of the plurality of single-core optical fibers can be aligned with the plurality of cores of the multi-core optical fibers.

[0019] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0020] The optical module ferrule provided by this utility model is configured to be located at the port of the optical module body. The optical module ferrule includes a ferrule body, two rotating parts, and two sets of single-core optical fiber groups. During connection, the multi-core optical fiber is inserted into the ferrule hole of the connector, specifically an MPO connector, and the multi-core optical fiber is rotated to a set angle and then fixed in the ferrule hole. Then, the mating ends of multiple single-core optical fibers are inserted and fixed in the rotating parts. The rotating parts are then inserted into the through holes of the ferrule body. By rotating the rotating parts, the angle of the rotating parts is adjusted so that the mating ends of multiple single-core optical fibers are aligned with the multiple cores of the multi-core optical fibers of the connector. Then, the rotating parts are fixed to the ferrule body. Finally, the connector is connected to the port of the optical module body so that the mating ends of multiple single-core optical fibers are in contact with the multiple cores of the multi-core optical fibers of the connector, thereby realizing optical path transmission. This optical module uses a ferrule with through holes on its body to insert a rotating component. Multiple single-core optical fibers are threaded through and fixed within the rotating component, facilitating optical path connection between the single-core fibers and the multi-core fibers of the connector. This design allows for the introduction of multi-core fibers while still enabling the use of MPO connectors outside the optical module, better meeting user needs. By adjusting the angle of the rotating component, optical path connection between the optical module and the connector with multi-core fibers can be achieved, ensuring normal optical transmission. Furthermore, the mating surface of the single-core fiber is flush with the outer wall of the ferrule body. When the MPO connector mates with the port of the optical module, the core of the multi-core fiber in the MPO connector contacts the mating surface of the single-core fiber, allowing the introduction of multi-core fibers without increasing the space required for connecting external optical fibers to the optical module.

[0021] This utility model also provides an optical module port connection mechanism that, while introducing multi-core optical fibers and continuing to use MPO connectors to better meet user needs, ensures normal optical path transmission without increasing the space required for connecting external optical fibers to the optical module. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of the optical module insert (the rotating part has a through hole) provided by this utility model;

[0023] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the ferrule for the optical module provided by this utility model;

[0024] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of point A in Figure 1;

[0025] Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of the connector involved in this utility model;

[0026] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of point B in Figure 4;

[0027] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the ferrule and connector for the optical module provided by this utility model;

[0028] Figure 7 is an exploded view of the optical module ferrule, connector and optical module body involved in this utility model;

[0029] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating component (with multiple limiting holes) involved in this utility model;

[0030] Figure 9 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the single-core optical fiber group involved in this utility model.

[0031] In the picture:

[0032] 100. Flanged core for optical modules; 1. Flanged core body; 11. Through hole; 12. Guide pin; 2. Rotating component; 21. Limiting hole; 22. Through hole; 23. Conical groove; 24. Chamfer; 3. Single-core fiber optic assembly; 31. Single-core fiber;

[0033] 200. Connector; 4. Flanged core; 41. Flanged core hole; 42. Multi-core optical fiber; 421. Core; 43. Guide pin hole; 300. Optical module body. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, the accompanying drawings show only the parts relevant to the present invention, not the entire structure.

[0035] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0036] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0037] In the description of this embodiment, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," etc., refer to the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for ease of description and simplification of operation, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are only used for distinction in description and have no special meaning.

[0038] As shown in Figures 1 to 9, this utility model provides a ferrule 100 for optical modules, which improves the existing ferrule structure for optical modules. While introducing multi-core optical fiber 42, it can continue to use MPO connectors to better meet the user's needs. The ferrule 100 for the optical module is configured to be located at the port of the optical module body 300. The ferrule 100 includes a ferrule body 1, two rotating parts 2, and two sets of single-core fiber groups 3. The ferrule body 1 is provided with two through holes 11 at intervals. The two rotating parts 2 are arranged one-to-one with the two through holes 11. The rotating parts 2 are inserted into the corresponding through holes 11 and can rotate relative to the through holes 11. The two sets of single-core fiber groups 3 are arranged one-to-one with the two rotating parts 2. Each set of single-core fiber groups 3 includes multiple single-core fibers 31. In each set of single-core fiber groups 3, the mating ends of multiple single-core fibers 31 are inserted and fixed in the rotating parts 2. The mating surfaces of the single-core fibers 31 are flush with the outer wall surface of the ferrule body 1. When the rotating parts 2 are rotated, the mating ends of multiple single-core fibers 31 are configured to be aligned one-to-one with the multiple cores 421 of the multi-core fiber 42 of the connector 200, i.e., the MPO connector. Specifically, one set of single-core optical fiber group 3 is used to receive optical signals, and the other set of single-core optical fiber group 3 is used to transmit optical signals.

[0039] During connection, the multi-core fiber 42 is inserted into the ferrule 41 of the connector 200, and the multi-core fiber 42 is rotated to a set angle and then fixed in the ferrule 41. Then, the mating ends of multiple single-core fibers 31 are inserted and fixed in the rotating part 2. Then, the rotating part 2 is inserted into the through hole 11 of the ferrule body 1. By rotating the rotating part 2, the angle of the rotating part 2 is adjusted so that the mating ends of multiple single-core fibers 31 are aligned with the multiple cores 421 of the multi-core fiber 42 of the connector 200. Then, the rotating part 2 is fixed to the ferrule body 1. Finally, the connector 200 is connected to the port of the optical module body 300 so that the mating ends of multiple single-core fibers 31 are in contact with the multiple cores 421 of the multi-core fiber 42 of the connector 200, thereby realizing optical path transmission.

[0040] The optical module uses a ferrule 100 with through holes 11 on the ferrule body 1 to insert a rotating member 2. Multiple single-core optical fibers 31 are threaded through and fixed within the rotating member 2, facilitating optical path communication between the single-core optical fibers 31 and the multi-core optical fiber 42 of the MPO connector. This configuration allows for the introduction of the multi-core optical fiber 42 while still enabling the use of the MPO connector outside the optical module, better meeting user needs. By adjusting the angle of the rotating member 2, the connecting ends of the single-core optical fibers 31 are aligned with the cores 421 of the multi-core optical fiber 42 in the connector 200. Then, the connector 200 is connected to the port of the optical module body 300, enabling optical path communication between the optical module and the connector 200 with the multi-core optical fiber 42, ensuring normal optical transmission. In addition, the mating surface of the single-core fiber 31 is flush with the outer wall surface of the ferrule body 1. When the MPO connector is mated with the port of the optical module body 300, the core 421 of the multi-core fiber 42 in the MPO connector can be in contact with the mating surface of the single-core fiber 31. While introducing the multi-core fiber 42, the space required for the optical module to connect to the external optical fiber will not be increased.

[0041] Optionally, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 3 and 9, each group of single-core optical fibers 3 has four single-core optical fibers 31, and the mating ends of the four single-core optical fibers 31 are distributed in a square within the rotating member 2. This arrangement facilitates the use of the side length of the square as a reference when adjusting the angle of the rotating member 2. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the multi-core optical fiber 42 has four cores 421, which are distributed in a square.

[0042] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ferrule body 1 is provided with a guide pin 12, which is configured to be inserted into the guide pin hole 43 of the connector 200. With this configuration, during docking, the guide pin 12 is inserted into the guide pin hole 43 of the connector 200, which can ensure the accuracy of the alignment of the core core 421 of the single-core optical fiber 31 and the multi-core optical fiber 42.

[0043] To facilitate determining the position of the rotating component 2 and aligning the core 421 of the single-core fiber 31 with the core 421 of the multi-core fiber 42, in this embodiment, two guide pins 12 are provided, spaced apart. The line connecting the axes of the two guide pins 12 serves as a reference line. In each group of single-core fibers 3, the line connecting the axes of the mating ends of two single-core fibers 31 is parallel to the reference line. When rotating the rotating component 2, rotation stops when the line connecting the axes of the mating ends of two single-core fibers 31 is parallel to the reference line, and then the rotating component 2 is fixed to the ferrule body 1.

[0044] Optionally, as shown in Figure 8, the rotating component 2 is provided with multiple limiting holes 21, which penetrate through the opposite end faces of the rotating component 2 along its length. Each limiting hole 21 corresponds to a single-core optical fiber 31, and the mating end of each single-core optical fiber 31 is inserted into and fixed within the corresponding limiting hole 21. By providing the limiting holes 21, the position of the single-core optical fiber 31 relative to the rotating component 2 can be easily determined. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 3, a through hole 22 can be provided on the rotating component 2, penetrating through the opposite end faces of the rotating component 2 along its length. All single-core optical fibers 31 are located within the through hole 22 and fixed within it.

[0045] Optionally, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG6, a conical groove 23 is recessed on the end face of the first end of the rotating member 2, and the conical groove 23 is connected to multiple limiting holes 21. When the single-core optical fiber 31 is inserted into the limiting hole 21, the conical groove 23 serves as a guide and avoidance mechanism. When the rotating member 2 is provided with a through hole 22, the conical groove 23 is connected to the through hole 22. In addition, as shown in FIG3, the second end of the rotating member 2 is provided with a chamfer 24. By providing the chamfer 24, it is convenient to insert the single-core optical fiber 31 into the limiting hole 21 or the through hole 22.

[0046] Optionally, in this embodiment, the rotating component 2 can be bonded to the insert body 1. After adjusting and determining the position of the rotating component 2, the rotating component 2 is fixed to the insert body 1 by bonding, which can achieve a reliable fixation of the rotating component 2 to the insert body 1.

[0047] Optionally, in this embodiment, the through hole 11 is a cylindrical hole, and the rotating component 2 is a cylindrical rod. The cylindrical rod fits into the cylindrical hole, and the cylindrical rod can rotate relative to the cylindrical hole. This arrangement facilitates the machining of the through hole 11 and the rotating component 2.

[0048] This utility model also provides an optical module port connection mechanism, including a connector 200 and an optical module ferrule 100. The connector 200 is an MPO connector, and the optical module ferrule 100 is configured to be located at the port of the optical module body 300. The connector 200 includes a ferrule 4, which has multiple ferrule holes 41. Two of the ferrule holes 41 are each fitted with a multi-core optical fiber 42. The two multi-core optical fibers 42 correspond one-to-one with two sets of single-core optical fiber groups 3. When the rotating component 2 is rotated, the mating ends of the multiple single-core optical fibers 31 can be aligned one-to-one with the multiple cores 421 of the multi-core optical fiber 42. Specifically, the ferrule 4 has a guide pin hole 43, which is inserted into a guide pin 12. This optical module port connection mechanism, while introducing multi-core optical fibers 42 and continuing to use an MPO connector to better meet user needs, ensures normal optical transmission without increasing the space required for connecting the optical module to external optical fibers.

[0049] Obviously, the above embodiments of this utility model are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present utility model, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present utility model. Those skilled in the art can make various obvious changes, readjustments, and substitutions without departing from the protection scope of this utility model. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively describe all embodiments here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. A ferrule for an optical module, characterized in that, The optical module ferrule is configured to be located at a port of the optical module body (300). The optical module ferrule includes: a ferrule body (1), which has two through holes (11) spaced apart; two rotating members (2), which are arranged one-to-one with the two through holes (11), and are inserted into the corresponding through holes (11) and can rotate relative to the through holes (11); and two sets of single-core fiber groups (3), which are connected to the two rotating members (11). 2) One-to-one correspondence setting, each group of single-core optical fiber group (3) includes multiple single-core optical fibers (31). In each group of single-core optical fiber group (3), the docking ends of multiple single-core optical fibers (31) are inserted and fixed in the rotating part (2). The docking surface of the single-core optical fiber (31) is flush with the outer wall surface of the ferrule body (1). When the rotating part (2) is rotated, the docking ends of multiple single-core optical fibers (31) are configured to be aligned one-to-one with the multiple cores (421) of the multi-core optical fiber (42) of the connector (200).

2. The ferrule for an optical module according to claim 1, characterized in that, In each group of single-core optical fiber groups (3), there are four single-core optical fibers (31), and the docking ends of the four single-core optical fibers (31) are distributed in a square within the rotating component (2).

3. The ferrule for an optical module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ferrule body (1) is provided with a guide pin (12), which is configured to be inserted into the guide pin hole (43) of the connector (200).

4. The ferrule for an optical module according to claim 3, characterized in that, Two guide pins (12) are provided, and the two guide pins (12) are arranged at intervals. The line connecting the axes of the two guide pins (12) is used as a reference line. In each group of single-core optical fiber groups (3), the line connecting the axes of the docking ends of the two single-core optical fibers (31) can be parallel to the reference line.

5. The ferrule for an optical module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating component (2) is provided with a plurality of limiting holes (21). The limiting holes (21) penetrate the opposite end faces of the rotating component (2) along the length direction. The plurality of limiting holes (21) are provided in correspondence with the plurality of single-core optical fibers (31). The docking end of each single-core optical fiber (31) is inserted into and fixed in the corresponding limiting hole (21).

6. The ferrule for an optical module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first end face of the rotating component (2) is recessed with a conical groove (23), and the conical groove (23) is connected to the plurality of limiting holes (21).

7. The ferrule for an optical module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating component (2) can be adhered to the insert body (1).

8. The ferrule for an optical module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second end of the rotating component (2) is provided with a chamfer (24).

9. The ferrule for an optical module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The through hole (11) is a cylindrical hole, and the rotating part (2) is a cylindrical rod. The cylindrical rod fits into the cylindrical hole, and the cylindrical rod can rotate relative to the cylindrical hole.

10. An optical module port connection mechanism, characterized in that, The device includes a connector (200) and an optical module ferrule as described in any one of claims 1-9. The optical module ferrule is configured to be disposed at a port of the optical module body (300). The connector (200) includes a ferrule (4). The ferrule (4) is provided with a plurality of ferrule holes (41). Among the plurality of ferrule holes (41), two of the ferrule holes (41) are each inserted with a multi-core optical fiber (42). The two multi-core optical fibers (42) are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with two groups of single-core optical fiber groups (3). When the rotating member (2) is rotated, the mating ends of the plurality of single-core optical fibers (31) can be aligned with the plurality of cores (421) of the multi-core optical fiber (42).