Optical connector connection structure

Abstract

Connection end surfaces facing each other of optical fibers (1a, 1b) and connection end surfaces facing each other of ferrules (20a, 20b) are inclined with respect to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fibers (1a, 1b). Connection end surfaces facing each other of magnetic structures (21a, 21b) are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fibers (1a, 1b), and magnetic force generated between the magnetic structures (21a, 21b) acts in a direction orthogonal to the connection end surfaces of the optical fibers (1a, 1b) and the connection end surfaces of the ferrules (20a, 20b).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technique for connecting optical connectors to each other, and more particularly to an optical connector connection structure that aims to reduce loss by using magnetic force.

Background Art

[0002] As an optical connector for connecting optical fibers for communication, a Physical Contact (hereinafter abbreviated as PC) type optical connector that closely connects fiber cores by butting and pressing highly accurate ferrules against each other is often used (see Non-Patent Document 1).

[0003] In PC connection, since the cores of each other can be in a completely close contact state, it is possible to prevent Fresnel reflection with air and obtain a high reflection attenuation amount. As single-core connectors, FC connectors, SC connectors, MU connectors, LC connectors, etc. are known. All of these connectors achieve PC connection by a structure in which single-core ferrules are pressed against each other in a split sleeve by a spring provided at the rear end of the ferrule.

[0004] In addition, as a structure that can obtain an even higher reflection attenuation amount and achieve low reflection, an Angled PC (APC) type optical connector that connects with an inclined ferrule end face is known. By using an inclined end face, recombination of the reflected light back into the core hardly occurs, so it is possible to obtain a higher reflection attenuation amount than a right-angle end face type PC type optical connector.

[0005] The optical connector structure using this inclined end face is also used in a multi-core optical connector that collectively connects a plurality of optical fibers, and is also applicable to a multi-core connector known as an MPO connector. The MPO connector presses MT ferrules that are fitted together by guide pins inside with a spring provided at the rear end of the ferrule, and closely connects the cores to each other. Also, even if an air layer occurs between the cores, due to the effect of the aforementioned inclined end face, the reflected light does not recombine, and a high reflection attenuation amount can be maintained. In both APC connectors and MPO connectors, an end face angle shifted by 8 degrees from a right angle is adopted as the end face angle in normal single-mode fiber applications.

[0006] However, in an optical connector having an inclined end face, since the direction of the pressing force applied by the spring and the angle formed by a pair of ferrule end faces are not orthogonal, a component force in the sliding direction acts on the ferrule end faces during connection, and a stress component orthogonal to the fiber longitudinal direction is generated. When the spring force is F, for example, in the case of an 8-degree end face, a component of F×sin8° theoretically exists.

[0007] In connectors having an inclined end face such as APC connectors and MPO connectors, there has been a problem that the axial displacement between the cores of the fibers occurs due to the aforementioned component force, increasing the connection loss. Also, in order to reduce the connection loss, there has been a problem that advanced measures such as offsetting the axial displacement in consideration of the influence of the component force in advance are required.

[0008] For example, in an APC connector, as disclosed in Non-Patent Document 2, it is known that the aforementioned component force is applied to the split sleeve, and the connection loss varies due to the asymmetric deformation of the split sleeve depending on the axial rotation direction of the split position of the split sleeve.

[0009] Also, in an MPO connector, a component force is similarly applied in a direction orthogonal to the fiber longitudinal direction. Due to the component force in the sliding direction, the position of the guide pin within the guide pin hole is displaced, and in addition, the guide pin hole undergoes minute elastic deformation, resulting in a slight axial misalignment between the cores and an increase in connection loss. In order to avoid coaxial misalignment in an MPO connector, measures such as offsetting the position of the fiber hole in the ferrule in advance considering the aforementioned component force in the sliding direction have been studied, but such an offset structure requires advanced know-how and strict tolerance regulations.

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0010]

Non-Patent Document 1

Non-Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0011] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is to reduce connection loss in an optical connector connection structure for connecting optical connectors having angled end faces of an optical fiber and a ferrule.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0012] The optical connector connection structure of the present invention is composed of a first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber and a second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector. The first optical connector includes a first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber and a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component. The second optical connector includes a second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber and a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers such that all the end faces are parallel. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures are inclined with respect to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers such that they are parallel to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components , frontA split sleeve for connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, and a third magnetic structure attached around the split sleeve so as to connect between the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected. The first alignment component is a cylindrical ferrule that fixes the first optical fiber so that the connection end face of the first optical fiber is exposed on its connection end face. The second alignment component is a cylindrical ferrule that fixes the second optical fiber so that the connection end face of the second optical fiber is exposed on its connection end face. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the first and second alignment components are inserted into the split sleeve from both sides of the split sleeve, and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are positioned to abut against each other. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, both connection end faces of the third magnetic structure facing the connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures are inclined in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so as to be parallel to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. The first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure are magnetically connected via the third magnetic structure, and the third magnetic structure is composed of a combination of two semi-split magnetic materials. The magnetic forces generated between the first magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure, and between the second magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure act in a direction perpendicular to the connecting end faces of the first and second optical fibers, the connecting end faces of the first and second alignment components, and both connecting end faces of the third magnetic structure opposite to the connecting end faces of the first and second magnetic structures It is characterized by this.

[0013] In addition, the optical connector connection structure of the present invention is composed of a first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber and a second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector. The first optical connector includes a first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber and a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component. The second optical connector includes a second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber and a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so that all the end faces are parallel. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, at least one of the first and second magnetic structures includes a structure made of a hard magnetic material, and the magnetization direction of the hard magnetic material is set in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components.

[0015] In addition, the optical connector connection structure of the present invention It is composed of a first optical connector attached to the tip of the first optical fiber and a second optical connector attached to the tip of the second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector. The first optical connector includes a first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber and a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component. The second optical connector includes a second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber and a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connecting end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connecting end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so that all end faces are parallelA split sleeve for connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, and a third magnetic structure attached around the split sleeve so as to connect between the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected. The first alignment component is a cylindrical ferrule that fixes the first optical fiber so that the connection end face of the first optical fiber is exposed on its connection end face. The second alignment component is a cylindrical ferrule that fixes the second optical fiber so that the connection end face of the second optical fiber is exposed on its connection end face. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the first and second alignment components are inserted into the split sleeve from both sides of the split sleeve, and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are positioned to abut each other. At least one of the first, second, and third magnetic structures includes a structure made of a hard magnetic material so that the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure are magnetically connected by magnetic force through the third magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected. The magnetization direction of the hard magnetic material is set so that the magnetic forces generated between the first magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure, and between the second magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure act in a direction perpendicular to the connecting end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connecting end faces of the first and second alignment components It is characterized by the above.

[0016] Also, the optical connector connection structure of the present invention It is composed of a first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber and a second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector. The first optical connector includes a first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber and a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component. The second optical connector includes a second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber and a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so that all end faces are parallel. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures are inclined with respect to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so as to be parallel to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. The magnetic force generated between the first and second magnetic structures acts in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. Further includes a guide pin for connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector. The first alignment component is a ferrule provided with a guide pin hole, and the first optical fiber is fixed so that the connection end faces of a plurality of the first optical fibers are exposed on its connection end face. The second alignment component is a ferrule provided with a guide pin hole, and the second optical fiber is fixed so that the connection end faces of a plurality of the second optical fibers are exposed on its connection end face. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the guide pin is inserted into the respective guide pin holes of the first and second alignment components, and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are positioned to abut each other. 、The first magnetic structure is made of a soft magnetic material, and the second magnetic structure is composed of a first member made of a soft magnetic material that faces the first magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, and a second member made of a hard magnetic material that is disposed on the end face side opposite to the connection end face of the first member. The second member is composed of a combination of two semi-divided hard magnetic materials. It is characterized by this.

[0017] Further, the optical connector connection structure of the present invention is composed of a first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber and a second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector. The first optical connector includes a first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber and a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component. The second optical connector includes a second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber and a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so that all end faces are parallel. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so as to be parallel to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. Before A guide pin for connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, and a third magnetic structure arranged to connect between the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected. The first alignment component is a ferrule having a guide pin hole, and the first optical fiber is fixed such that the connection end faces of a plurality of the first optical fibers are exposed on the connection end face thereof. The second alignment component is a ferrule having a guide pin hole, and the second optical fiber is fixed such that the connection end faces of a plurality of the second optical fibers are exposed on the connection end face thereof. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the guide pin is inserted into the guide pin holes of the first and second alignment components respectively, and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are positioned to abut against each other. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, both connection end faces of the third magnetic structure facing the connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures are inclined in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so as to be parallel to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. The first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure are magnetically connected via the third magnetic structure, and the third magnetic structure is composed of a combination of two half-divided magnetic materials Furthermore, the magnetic force generated between the first magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure and the magnetic force generated between the second magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure act in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers, the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components, and both connection end faces of the third magnetic structure opposing the connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures. It is characterized by this.

[0018] Also, the optical connector connection structure of the present invention It is composed of a first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber and a second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector. The first optical connector includes a first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber and a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component. The second optical connector includes a second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber and a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so that all the end faces are parallel. A guide pin for connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, and a third magnetic structure arranged to connect between the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected. The first alignment component is a ferrule having a guide pin hole, and the first optical fiber is fixed such that the connection end faces of a plurality of the first optical fibers are exposed on the connection end face thereof. The second alignment component is a ferrule having a guide pin hole, and the second optical fiber is fixed such that the connection end faces of a plurality of the second optical fibers are exposed on the connection end face thereof. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the guide pin is inserted into the guide pin holes of the first and second alignment components respectively, and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are positioned to abut against each other. At least one of the first, second, and third magnetic structures includes a structure made of a hard magnetic material so that the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure are magnetically connected by magnetic force via the third magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected. The magnetization direction of the hard magnetic material is set so that the magnetic force generated between the first magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure and the magnetic force generated between the second magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure act in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. It is characterized by the above.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to the present invention, by making the magnetic force generated between the first and second magnetic structures act in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, no component force is generated in the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, so that the variation in connection loss can be suppressed and a low-loss optical connection can be realized.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figures 2A - 2B

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

Figure 7A

Figure 7B

Figures 8A - 8B

Figure 9A

Figure 9B

Figure 10

Figure 11A

Figure 11B

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14A

Figure 14B

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0021] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view before connection of a single-heart-shaped optical connector connection structure according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view after connection of the single-heart-shaped optical connector connection structure.

[0022] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the single-heart-shaped optical connector connection structure of the present embodiment includes optical connectors 2a and 2b attached to the respective tips of optical fibers 1a and 1b, and a split sleeve 3 that connects the ferrules of the optical connectors 2a and 2b.

[0023] The optical fibers 1a and 1b are, for example, silica-based single-mode fibers with a cladding diameter of 125 μm and a core diameter of approximately 10 μm. The optical connector 2a includes a ferrule 20a (first alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 1a, and a magnetic structure 21a (first magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 20a. Similarly, the optical connector 2b includes a ferrule 20b (second alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 1b, and a magnetic structure 21b (second magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 20b.

[0024] The ferrules 20a and 20b are known single-core ferrules provided with micro-holes having an inner diameter that is, for example, about 0.5 to 1.5 μm larger than the outer diameter of the optical fibers 1a and 1b. The micro-holes of the ferrules 20a and 20b are inserted with the optical fibers 1a and 1b from which the coatings have been removed, respectively. The optical fibers 1a and 1b and the ferrules 20a and 20b are fixed by an adhesive. In FIGS. 1A and 1B, the illustration of the adhesive and the optical fiber coating is omitted.

[0025] The split sleeve 3 is obtained by cutting and dividing a cylindrical sleeve along the longitudinal direction of the center line as is well known. A magnetic structure 30 (third magnetic structure) is attached around the split sleeve 3.

[0026] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1B, the ferrules 20a and 20b of the pair of optical connectors 2a and 2b are inserted into the split sleeve 3 from both sides of the split sleeve 3, the ferrules 20a and 20b are butted against each other, and the optical fibers 1a and 1b are butted against each other to connect the optical connectors 2a and 2b. The positioning of the ferrules 20a and 20b, that is, the positioning of the optical fibers 1a and 1b is performed by the split sleeve 3.

[0027] Between the magnetic structure 21a and the magnetic structure 30, and between the magnetic structure 21b and the magnetic structure 30, the materials of the respective magnetic structures 21a, 21b, 30 and the magnetization directions of the N and S poles are set so that magnetic attraction acts.

[0028] In this embodiment, the magnetic structure 30 is made of a hard magnetic material (so-called magnet). As shown in FIG. 1A, when the longitudinal directions of the optical fibers 1a and 1b are taken as the Z-axis direction, the N pole - S pole is magnetized along the Z-axis direction. As the material of the magnet, any known magnet may be used according to the magnetic force to be generated. As a typical magnet, a neodymium magnet can be used. In addition, known magnets such as ferrite magnets, alnico magnets, samarium cobalt magnets, KS steel, MK steel, and neodymium iron boron magnets can be used as the magnetic structure 30. Also, of course, any magnet with its magnetic properties adjusted by slightly changing these compositions can be used in the same way.

[0029] As the material of the magnetic structures 21a and 21b, a hard magnetic material (magnet) may be used, or a soft magnetic material may be used. When using a hard magnetic material, the magnetization direction is appropriately set corresponding to the magnetization direction of the magnetic structure 30. For example, if the connection end face 31a side of the magnetic structure 30 is the N pole, the connection end face 22a side of the magnetic structure 21a facing the connection end face 31a is set as the S pole, and the connection end face 22b side of the magnetic structure 21b facing the connection end face 31b of the magnetic structure 30 is set as the N pole. Thereby, a magnetic attraction force acts so that the connection end face 31a of the magnetic structure 30 and the connection end face 22a of the magnetic structure 21a are attracted to each other, and the connection end face 31b of the magnetic structure 30 and the connection end face 22b of the magnetic structure 21b are attracted to each other.

[0030] Even when a soft magnetic material is used as the material of the magnetic structures 21a and 21b, a similar magnetic attraction force acts between the magnetic structure 30 and the magnetic structure 21a, and between the magnetic structure 30 and the magnetic structure 21b. As the soft magnetic material, metals that are attracted to magnets are known, for example, iron, nickel, cobalt, permalloy, etc. Also, a ferromagnetic one (for example, SUS430) among stainless steels (SUS) which are iron-based alloys can be used.

[0031] If all of the magnetic structures 21a, 21b, and 30 are made of magnets, the magnetic force that will naturally occur is large and the attractive force is large. On the other hand, although the attractive force is inferior to the case where all of the magnetic structures 21a, 21b, and 30 are made of magnets, the magnetic structures 21a and 21b may be made of a soft magnetic material from the viewpoints of ease of processing, prevention of adhesion to other components, prevention of influence by magnetic force, etc. Whether to use a hard magnetic material or a soft magnetic material as the material of the magnetic structures 21a and 21b can be appropriately selected according to the required attractive force, the size of the magnetic structures 21a, 21b, and 30, the required conditions, etc. Also, a soft magnetic material may be used as the material of the magnetic structure 30, and a hard magnetic material may be used as the material of at least one of the magnetic structures 21a and 21b.

[0032] Also, any of the magnetic structures 21a, 21b, and 30 may be a composite of a plurality of magnetic structures instead of being composed of a single material, and a combination of a hard magnetic material and a soft magnetic material may be used.

[0033] As a joining method between the ferrules 20a and 20b and the magnetic structures 21a and 21b, any joining method such as adhesion, mechanical fitting, or joining with a metal (such as solder) may be used. The same applies to the joining method between the split sleeve 3 and the magnetic structure 30.

[0034] In this embodiment, the sum of the protruding amount in the Z-axis direction of the end face of the ferrule 20a from the magnetic structure 21a and the protruding amount in the Z-axis direction of the end face of the ferrule 20b from the magnetic structure 21b is set to be the same as or slightly larger than the length of the magnetic structure 30 in the Z-axis direction. The end faces of the optical fibers 1a and 1b are exposed on the end faces of the ferrules 20a and 20b, respectively. Therefore, when the ferrules 20a and 20b are inserted into the split sleeve 3 from both sides of the split sleeve 3 and the end faces of the ferrules 20a and 20b come into contact with each other, the end faces of the optical fibers 1a and 1b come into contact with each other, and a PC connection is realized.

[0035] On the one hand, by setting the protrusion amount as described above, the connection end face 22a of the magnetic structure 21a and the connection end face 31a of the magnetic structure 30, and the connection end face 22b of the magnetic structure 21b and the connection end face 31b of the magnetic structure 30 do not necessarily contact each other, and a minute gap may be formed between the connection end faces.

[0036] As is clear from FIGS. 1A and 1B, the connection end faces of the ferrules 20a and 20b and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a and 1b have so-called inclined end faces that are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction. Specifically, the connection end faces of the ferrules 20a and 20b and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a and 1b are inclined end faces that are inclined, for example, 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction. That is, it has the same structure as an APC connector in which the fibers of the inclined end faces are in close contact and connected. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, chamfering may be appropriately performed on the outer peripheral portions of the connection end faces of the ferrules 20a and 20b.

[0037] The connection end face 22a of the magnetic structure 21a facing the magnetic structure 30 is inclined 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction so as to be approximately parallel to the connection end face of the ferrule 20a integrated with the magnetic structure 21a and the connection end face of the optical fiber 1a. Similarly, the connection end face 22b of the magnetic structure 21b facing the magnetic structure 30 is inclined 8° with respect to the XY plane so as to be approximately parallel to the connection end face of the ferrule 20b integrated with the magnetic structure 21b and the connection end face of the optical fiber 1b.

[0038] In addition, the connection end faces 31a and 31b of the magnetic structure 30 facing the magnetic structures 21a and 21b are inclined 8° with respect to the XY plane so as to be approximately parallel to the connection end faces 22a and 22b of the magnetic structures 21a and 21b when the optical connectors 2a and 2b are connected. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the magnetic structure 30 surrounding the split sleeve 3 has an outer shape like a parallelogram.

[0039] In this embodiment, by adopting the structures of the magnetic structures 21a, 21b, and 30 as described above, the following effects can be achieved. In this embodiment, the magnetic attractive forces acting between the magnetic structure 21a and the magnetic structure 30, and between the magnetic structure 21b and the magnetic structure 30 act in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces 22a, 22b, 31a, 31b, that is, in a direction inclined by 8° with respect to the XZ plane.

[0040] In a conventional configuration where a pressing force is applied from the rear end of the ferrule using a spring or the like to bring the ferrules into close contact, if the angle of the connection end face of the ferrule and the direction of the spring force are not orthogonal, a component force in the sliding direction is applied. For this reason, as described above, a component force is generated in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber with respect to the split sleeve, and the split sleeve may be deformed asymmetrically. Since there are individual differences in the direction of the slit of the split sleeve, variations occur in the deformation of the split sleeve, resulting in an increase in variations in connection loss.

[0041] On the other hand, in the structure of this embodiment, since the magnetic attractive force is applied only in the direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the ferrules 20a, 20b, the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a, 1b, and the connection end faces 22a, 22b, 31a, 31b of the magnetic structures 21a, 21b, 30, no component force is generated in the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 1a, 1b, and no asymmetric deformation occurs in the split sleeve 3. As a result, this embodiment has the effect of being able to suppress variations in connection loss and realizing a low-loss optical connection as designed.

[0042] In the structures shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the magnetic structures 21a and 21b are arranged so as to surround the ferrules 20a and 20b. However, as long as a magnetic force can be generated, the structures shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B are not necessary. For example, the magnetic structure may be arranged on only one side surface of the ferrules 20a and 20b.

[0043] Further, the magnetic structures 21a, 21b, and 30 do not have to be made of a single material, and a combination of a hard magnetic material and a soft magnetic material may be used. Also, a combination of hard magnetic materials, for example, a combination of magnetic materials with a half-divided structure, or a multi-pole magnet may be used.

[0044] FIG. 2A shows, as a modification of this embodiment, an example in which a third magnetic structure is divided into two magnets. FIG. 2B shows a cross-section of the optical connector connection structure cut along the line A-A' in FIG. 2A. In the examples of FIGS. 2A and 2B, magnetic structures 32 and 33, which are two magnets with opposite magnetization directions and a half-divided structure, are arranged around the split sleeve 3. In this example, magnetic confinement can be strengthened, and a higher magnetic force can be obtained even with the same size as the configurations of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0045] Also, other structures may be used as the connection structure of the magnetic structure. For example, when looking at the magnetic structure from the Z-axis direction, a structure in which a hard magnetic material and a soft magnetic material are separately arranged may be used, or when looking at the magnetic structure from a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction (X-axis direction or Y-axis direction), a structure in which a hard magnetic material and a soft magnetic material are separately arranged may be used. Also, a magnetic structure may be built into the ferrules 20a and 20b themselves.

[0046] FIG. 3 shows another modification of this embodiment. The optical connector 4a is composed of a ferrule 20a and magnetic structures 41a and 42a attached around the ferrule 20a. The optical connector 4b is composed of a ferrule 20b and magnetic structures 41b and 42b attached around the ferrule 20b.

[0047] In the example of FIG. 3, the first magnetic structure is composed of a magnetic structure 41a having an end face orthogonal to the Z-axis direction, and a magnetic structure 42a whose end face on the magnetic structure 41a side is orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and whose connection end face on the magnetic structure 30 side is inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction. Further, the second magnetic structure is composed of a magnetic structure 41b having an end face orthogonal to the Z-axis direction, and a magnetic structure 42b whose end face on the magnetic structure 41b side is orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and whose connection end face on the magnetic structure 30 side is inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction. Even if the magnetic structure is configured separately in this way, the same effects as those in the examples of FIGS. 1A and 1B can be obtained.

[0048] FIG. 4 shows another modification of the present embodiment. The optical connector 5a is composed of a ferrule 20a and a magnetic structure 51a attached around the ferrule 20a. The optical connector 5b is composed of a ferrule 20b and a magnetic structure 51b attached around the ferrule 20b.

[0049] The example of FIG. 4 shows an example in which the holes for the optical fibers 1a and 1b and the holes for the ferrules 20a and 20b penetrate obliquely through the rectangular parallelepiped magnetic structures 51a and 51b. As a result, the connection end faces of the magnetic structures 51a and 51b are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction, so that the same effects as those in the examples of FIGS. 1A and 1B can be obtained.

[0050] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the connection end faces of the ferrules 20a and 20b, the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a and 1b, and the connection end faces of the magnetic structures 21a, 21b, 30, 32, 33, 42a, 42b, 51a, and 51b are inclined by 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction. Needless to say, in the present invention, the inclination angle of the connection end face may be a value other than 8°.

[0051] Next, other components of the present invention will be described. In the present invention, any known types and materials of the optical fibers 1a and 1b and the ferules 20a and 20b can be applied. For example, the optical fibers 1a and 1b may be any well-known silica-based optical fiber or plastic fiber. Further, the optical fibers 1a and 1b may be any of a single-mode fiber, a multi-mode fiber, a polarization-maintaining fiber, a photonic crystal fiber, a multi-core fiber, etc. to which the present invention can be applied.

[0052] Also, in the portions of the optical fibers 1a and 1b exposed outside the ferules 20a and 20b, a known resin coating made of, for example, acrylic, epoxy, silicone, polyimide, etc. may be provided around the optical fibers 1a and 1b, or further, a silicone tube, a nylon coating, etc. may be provided in a double or more layer around the resin coating. Any known cylindrical ferules can be used as the ferules 20a and 20b.

[0053] Also, in the present invention, as long as the components can accurately position the end faces of the optical fibers 1a and 1b, components other than the ferules can be used as alignment components. Furthermore, in the present invention, as long as the components can accurately position the ferules 20a and 20b with respect to each other, components other than the split sleeve 3 may be used.

[0054] For example, an application example is shown in FIG. 5. In the example of FIG. 5, glass capillaries 23a and 23b are used as alignment components for fixing the optical fibers 1a and 1b. Micro holes slightly larger than the outer diameters of the optical fibers 1a and 1b are formed in the capillaries 23a and 23b. The optical fibers 1a and 1b are respectively inserted into the micro holes of the capillaries 23a and 23b and fixed so that the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a and 1b protrude from the end faces of the capillaries 23a and 23b. The optical fibers 1a and 1b and the capillaries 23a and 23b are fixed by an adhesive. Similar to the examples of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a and 1b are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction.

[0055] Also, in the example of FIG. 5, as components for positioning the optical fibers 1a and 1b, a capillary 34 in which micro-holes slightly larger than the outer diameters of the optical fibers 1a and 1b are formed is used. The optical fibers 1a and 1b protruding from the capillaries 23a and 23b are aligned within the micro-holes of the capillary 34, thereby positioning the two optical fibers 1a and 1b.

[0056] Similar to the examples of FIGS. 1A and 1B, magnetic structures 21a and 21b are attached around the capillaries 23a and 23b, and a magnetic structure 30 is attached around the capillary 34. Between the magnetic structure 21a and the magnetic structure 30, and between the magnetic structure 21b and the magnetic structure 30, the materials and the magnetization directions of the N and S poles of the respective magnetic structures 21a, 21b, and 30 are appropriately set so that magnetic attractive forces act.

[0057] For example, by using SUS403 for the magnetic structures 21a and 21b and a neodymium magnet for the magnetic structure 30, magnetic attractive forces act between the magnetic structure 21a and the magnetic structure 30, and between the magnetic structure 21b and the magnetic structure 30. Also in the example of FIG. 5, since the magnetic attractive forces acting between the magnetic structure 21a and the magnetic structure 30 and between the magnetic structure 21b and the magnetic structure 30 act in a direction inclined with respect to the XZ plane, no component force is generated in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 1a and 1b. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an increase in connection loss due to axial displacement of the optical fibers 1a and 1b within the clearance range of the micro-holes of the capillary 34, and optical connection with low loss can be achieved.

[0058] [Second Embodiment] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view before connection of a single-core optical connector connection structure according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view after connection of the single-core optical connector connection structure. The single-core optical connector connection structure of the present embodiment includes optical connectors 6a and 6b attached to the respective tips of the optical fibers 1a and 1b, and a split sleeve 3 that connects the ferrules of the optical connectors 6a and 6b.

[0059] The optical connector 6a is composed of a ferrule 20a (first alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 1a and a magnetic structure 61a (first magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 20a. Similarly, the optical connector 6b is composed of a ferrule 20b (second alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 1b and a magnetic structure 61b (second magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 20b. A magnetic structure 35 (third magnetic structure) is attached around the split sleeve 3.

[0060] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6B, the ferrules 20a and 20b of the pair of optical connectors 6a and 6b are inserted into the split sleeve 3 from both sides of the split sleeve 3, the ferrules 20a and 20b are abutted against each other, and the optical fibers 1a and 1b are abutted against each other to connect the optical connectors 6a and 6b. Similar to the first embodiment, the connection end faces of the ferrules 20a and 20b and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a and 1b are inclined, for example, at 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 1a and 1b.

[0061] The difference from the first embodiment is that any of the connection end faces 62a and 62b of the magnetic structures 61a and 61b and the connection end faces 36a and 36b of the magnetic structure 35 are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 1a and 1b and are not inclined with respect to the XY plane.

[0062] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the magnetic structures 61a, 61b, and 35 are made of a hard magnetic material, and their magnetization directions are inclined with respect to the Z-axis direction as shown in FIG. 6A. Specifically, the magnetization directions of the N pole and the S pole are set in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the ferrules 20a and 20b and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a and 1b.

[0063] In this embodiment, due to such a magnetization direction setting, even if the connection end faces 62a, 62b, 36a, 36b of the magnetic structures 61a, 61b, 35 are perpendicular to the Z-axis direction, the magnetic attractive forces acting between the magnetic structure 61a and the magnetic structure 35, and the magnetic attractive forces acting between the magnetic structure 61b and the magnetic structure 35 act obliquely with respect to the Z-axis direction, and magnetic forces are applied in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a, 1b and the connection end faces of the ferrules 20a, 20b.

[0064] In this embodiment, since magnetic attractive forces are applied only in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a, 1b and the connection end faces of the ferrules 20a, 20b, no component force is generated in a direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction, and no asymmetric deformation occurs in the split sleeve 3. As a result, this embodiment has the effect that variations in connection loss can be suppressed and a low-loss optical connection as designed can be realized.

[0065] [Third Embodiment] FIG. 7A is a perspective view before connection of a multi-core optical connector connection structure according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7B is a perspective view after connection of the multi-core optical connector connection structure. FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of the multi-core optical connector connection structure of FIG. 7B cut along the XZ plane, and FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the multi-core optical connector connection structure of FIG. 7B cut along the YZ plane.

[0066] The multi-core optical connector connection structure of this embodiment is composed of an optical connector 8a attached to the tips of a plurality of optical fibers 7a, an optical connector 8b attached to the tips of a plurality of optical fibers 7b, and a guide pin 9 that connects the ferrules of the optical connectors 8a, 8b.

[0067] The optical connector 8a is composed of a ferrule 80a (first alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 7a, a boot 81a that bundles the optical fibers 7a, and a magnetic structure 82a (first magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 80a. Similarly, the optical connector 8b is composed of a ferrule 80b (second alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 7b, a boot 81b that bundles the optical fibers 7b, and a magnetic structure 82b (second magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 80b.

[0068] The ferrules 80a and 80b are multi-core ferrules provided with a plurality of micro-holes into which a plurality of optical fibers 7a and 7b are inserted. The ferrules 80a and 80b are known MT ferrules, and two guide pin holes 83a and 83b are formed through the ferrules 80a and 80b along the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 7a and 7b.

[0069] One optical fiber 7a with its coating removed is inserted into each of the plurality of micro-holes of the ferrule 80a. Similarly, one optical fiber 7b with its coating removed is inserted into each of the plurality of micro-holes of the ferrule 80b. The optical fibers 7a and 7b and the ferrules 80a and 80b are fixed by an adhesive. In FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8A, and 8B, the illustration of the adhesive and the optical fiber coating is omitted.

[0070] In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7B, 8A, and 8B, one guide pin 9 is inserted into each of the two guide pin holes 83a of the ferrule 80a of the optical connector 8a, and these guide pins 9 are inserted into the guide pin holes 83b of the ferrule 80b of the optical connector 8b to abut the ferrules 80a and 80b against each other and abut the optical fibers 7a and 7b against each other, thereby connecting the optical connectors 8a and 8b. The positioning of the ferrules 80a and 80b, that is, the positioning of the optical fibers 7a and 7b, is performed by the guide pins 9.

[0071] As shown in Fig. 8B, the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b are inclined, for example, by 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the recombination of the return light due to Fresnel reflection. Between the magnetic structure 82a attached around the ferrule 80a and the magnetic structure 82b attached around the ferrule 80b, the materials of the respective magnetic structures 82a and 82b and the magnetization directions of the N and S poles are set so that a magnetic attractive force acts.

[0072] The connection end face 84a of the magnetic structure 82a facing the magnetic structure 82b is inclined by 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction so as to be approximately parallel to the connection end face of the ferrule 80a integrated with the magnetic structure 82a and the connection end face of the optical fiber 7a. Similarly, the connection end face 84b of the magnetic structure 82b facing the magnetic structure 82a is inclined by 8° with respect to the XY plane so as to be approximately parallel to the connection end face of the ferrule 80b integrated with the magnetic structure 82b and the connection end face of the optical fiber 7b.

[0073] The optical fibers 7a and 7b are positioned so as to slightly protrude from the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b, and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b are polished. Although an example is shown in which the connection end face 84a of the magnetic structure 82a and the connection end face of the ferrule 80a are positioned on the same plane, the connection end face of the ferrule 80a may be positioned so as to protrude with respect to the connection end face 84a of the magnetic structure 82a. Similarly, the connection end face 84b of the magnetic structure 82b and the connection end face of the ferrule 80b are positioned on the same plane, but the connection end face of the ferrule 80b may be positioned so as to protrude with respect to the connection end face 84b of the magnetic structure 82b.

[0074] In this embodiment, by adopting the structures of the magnetic structures 82a and 82b as described above, the following effects can be achieved. In this embodiment, the magnetic attractive force acting between the magnetic structure 82a and the magnetic structure 82b acts in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces 84a and 84b, that is, in a direction inclined by 8° with respect to the XZ plane.

[0075] In the conventional configuration where a pressing force is applied from the rear end of a multi-core ferrule using a spring or the like to bring the ferrules into close contact with each other, if the angle of the connection end face of the ferrule and the direction of the spring force are not orthogonal, a component force in the sliding direction is applied. For this reason, as described above, a component force is generated in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, and there is a possibility that the position of the guide pin in the guide pin hole is displaced due to the component force in the sliding direction. In addition, there is a possibility that the guide pin hole is elastically deformed slightly by the component force. As a result, there has been a problem that a slight axial displacement occurs between the cores of the optical fibers, increasing the connection loss.

[0076] Also, in order to avoid coaxial displacement in a known MPO connector, measures such as offsetting the fiber hole position in the ferrule in advance considering the above-described component force in the sliding direction have been studied, but such an offset structure requires advanced know-how and strict tolerance regulations. In particular, the minute deformation of the guide pin hole due to the component force in the sliding direction varies depending on the pressing force and the material characteristics of the ferrule. Therefore, advanced know-how is required to make the minute deformation of the guide pin hole as designed. In addition, when connecting optical connectors of different vendors, it has been impossible to control the axial displacement of the cores of the optical fibers as expected, resulting in an increase in connection loss.

[0077] On the other hand, in the structure of this embodiment, since the magnetic attractive force is applied only in the direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b, the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b, and the connection end faces 84a and 84b of the magnetic structures 82a and 82b, no component force is generated in the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 7a and 7b, and no minute deformation of the guide pin holes 83a and 83b occurs. As a result, this embodiment has the effect of being able to suppress variations in connection loss and realizing a low-loss optical connection as designed.

[0078] In addition, in this embodiment, it is not necessary to offset the fiber hole positions in the ferrules 80a and 80b in consideration of the component force in the aforementioned sliding direction. Even if the fiber hole positions in the ferrules 80a and 80b are offset, since the influence of minute deformation of the guide pin holes 83a and 83b can be eliminated, the offset position can be easily set regardless of magnetic attraction or material properties. Therefore, even when connecting the optical connectors 8a and 8b of different vendors, a low-loss optical connection can be realized.

[0079] Next, other components in this embodiment will be described. Also in this embodiment, the modification examples and application examples shown in the first embodiment can be applied. For example, in the structures shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8A, and 8B, the magnetic structures 82a and 82b are arranged so as to surround the peripheries of the ferrules 80a and 80b. However, as long as a magnetic force can be generated, the structures shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8A, and 8B are not necessary. For example, a magnetic structure may be arranged only on one side surface of the ferrules 80a and 80b.

[0080] Also, the magnetic structures 82a and 82b do not have to be made of a single material, and a combination of a hard magnetic material and a soft magnetic material may be used. Further, a combination of hard magnetic materials, for example, a combination of magnetic materials having a half-split structure as described in the first embodiment, or a multi-pole magnet may be used.

[0081] Also, as the connection structure of the magnetic structures, other structures may be used. For example, when viewing the magnetic structures from the Z-axis direction, a structure in which the hard magnetic material and the soft magnetic material are separately arranged may be used, or when viewing the magnetic structures from a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction (X-axis direction or Y-axis direction), a structure in which the hard magnetic material and the soft magnetic material are separately arranged may be used. Further, the magnetic structures may be incorporated in the ferrules 80a and 80b themselves.

[0082] Also, similar to the example of FIG. 3, the magnetic structure 82a may be composed of a magnetic structure 41a having an end face orthogonal to the Z-axis direction, and a magnetic structure 42a whose end face on the magnetic structure 41a side is orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and whose connecting end face on the magnetic structure 82b side is inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction. Similarly, the magnetic structure 82b may be composed of a magnetic structure 41b having an end face orthogonal to the Z-axis direction, and a magnetic structure 42b whose end face on the magnetic structure 41b side is orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and whose connecting end face on the magnetic structure 82a side is inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction.

[0083] Also, similar to the example of FIG. 4, the holes for the optical fibers 7a and 7b and the holes for the ferrules 80a and 80b may penetrate the rectangular parallelepiped magnetic structure obliquely.

[0084] In this embodiment, any known types and materials of the optical fibers 7a and 7b and any known types and materials of the ferrules 80a and 80b can be applied. As the material of the multi-core ferrules 80a and 80b, any of general-purpose plastics, engineering plastics, super engineering plastics, etc., which are often used for MT ferrules, may be used.

[0085] Also, a structure similar to that of the ferrules 80a and 80b may use a glass material, or a processed product based on a semiconductor material such as silicon, a ceramic material, etc. For example, like a known optical fiber array, the optical fibers 7a and 7b may be fixed by sandwiching them between a glass block with V-grooves formed and a lid component. By positioning and bonding two guide pins or the like to the glass block and the lid component, a ferrule made of a glass material with a positioning structure may be realized.

[0086] Further, if the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b, the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b, and the connection end faces 84a and 84b of the magnetic structures 82a and 82b are inclined with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction, and a magnetic attraction force is applied in a direction orthogonal to these connection end faces, the outer shapes of the ferrules 80a and 80b and the outer shapes of the magnetic structures 82a and 82b may be different from the shapes shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8A, and 8B.

[0087] Also, if necessary, the ferrules 80a and 80b and the magnetic structures 82a and 82b may be subjected to machining such as chamfering or filleting. These machining operations may be applied to other embodiments.

[0088] In this embodiment, as the alignment structure, a structure including the guide pins 9 used in an MT ferrule or the like and the guide pin holes 83a and 83b is adopted, but an alignment structure other than this embodiment may be used. For example, a protrusion may be formed on the connection end face of either one of the ferrules 80a and 80b, and a guide groove that fits with the protrusion may be provided on the connection end face of the other.

[0089] Further, even if the optical fibers 1a, 1b, 7a, and 7b are replaced with optical waveguides or optical elements, the present invention can be similarly applied. Also, if necessary, an antireflection coating or the like may be applied to the connection end faces of the optical fibers 1a, 1b, 7a, and 7b to further suppress Fresnel reflection.

[0090] In addition, in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the optical fibers 7a and 7b are positioned so as to protrude from the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b. However, this is of course not the only case. For example, the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b may be positioned so as to be slightly recessed from the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b, and a slight gap may be provided between the optical fibers 7a and 7b while the opposing ferrules 80a and 80b are brought into contact. Further, in order to provide a gap between the optical fibers 7a and 7b, another spacer component may be provided between the ferrules 80a and 80b. Also, the relationship between the connection end face of the ferrule and the connection end face of the magnetic structure can be arbitrarily designed. For example, in order to provide a gap between the optical fibers as described above, the connection end face of the ferrule 80a is set to be recessed with respect to the connection end face 84a of the magnetic structure 82a, and the connection end face 84b of the other magnetic structure 82b and the connection end face of the ferrule 80b may also be set to be recessed. Conversely, as in the case of PC connection described above, the connection end face of the ferrule may be set to protrude with respect to the connection end face of any of the magnetic structures. Also, the connection end face of the ferrule 80a may be set to be recessed with respect to the connection end face 84a of one magnetic structure 82a, and the connection end face 84b of the other magnetic structure 82b and the connection end face of the ferrule 80b may be set to protrude. In this case, by setting the recess length of the connection end face of the ferrule 80a with respect to the connection end face 84a of the magnetic structure 82a and the protrusion length of the connection end face of the ferrule 80b with respect to the connection end face 84b of the other magnetic structure 82b to be approximately the same, a configuration for PC connecting the optical fibers can be realized as in FIG. 7.

[0091] The eight-core optical fibers 7a and 7b are arranged, for example, at a pitch of approximately 250 μm. Of course, the pitch and the number of cores of the optical fibers 7a and 7b are arbitrary, and any number of cores such as 2-core, 4-core, 8-core, 12-core, 16-core, 24-core, 32-core, etc. can be applied. Also, a part of the optical fibers 7a and 7b may be a polarization-maintaining fiber or the like.

[0092] In addition, in order to prevent the guide pin 9 from falling off, the guide pin 9 may be fixed to either one of the ferrules 80a and 80b. As the fixing method, there are a method of fixing using other components, a method of using a bonding material, an adhesive, or the like.

[0093] Further, if necessary, the openings of the guide pin holes 83a and 83b, the openings of the micro holes for the fiber, and the tip of the guide pin 9 may be tapered to facilitate insertion.

[0094] [Fourth Embodiment] FIG. 9A is a perspective view before connection of a multi-heart-shaped optical connector connection structure according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9B is a perspective view after connection of the multi-heart-shaped optical connector connection structure. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-heart-shaped optical connector connection structure of FIG. 9B cut along the YZ plane.

[0095] The multi-heart-shaped optical connector connection structure of this embodiment includes an optical connector 10a attached to the tips of a plurality of optical fibers 7a, an optical connector 10b attached to the tips of a plurality of optical fibers 7b, and a guide pin 9 that connects the ferrules of the optical connectors 10a and 10b.

[0096] The optical connector 10a includes a ferrule 80a (first alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 7a, a boot 81a that bundles the optical fibers 7a, and a magnetic structure 100a (first magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 80a. Similarly, the optical connector 10b includes a ferrule 80b (second alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 7b, a boot 81b that bundles the optical fibers 7b, and a magnetic structure 100b (second magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 80b.

[0097] Similar to the third embodiment, one guide pin 9 is inserted into each of the two guide pin holes of the ferrule 80a of the optical connector 10a, and these guide pins 9 are inserted into the guide pin holes of the ferrule 80b of the optical connector 10b. By butting the ferrules 80a and 80b against each other and butting the optical fibers 7a and 7b against each other, the optical connectors 10a and 10b are connected.

[0098] Similar to the third embodiment, the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b are inclined, for example, by 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 7a and 7b.

[0099] Also, the difference from the third embodiment is that the connection end faces 101a and 101b of the magnetic structures 100a and 100b are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 7a and 7b and are not inclined with respect to the XY plane.

[0100] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the magnetic structures 100a and 100b are made of a hard magnetic material, and their magnetization directions are inclined with respect to the Z-axis direction as shown in FIGS. 9A and 10. Specifically, the magnetization directions of the N pole and the S pole are set in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b. However, one of the materials of the magnetic structures 100a and 100b may be a soft magnetic material, or a combination of a soft magnetic material and a hard magnetic material. Also, the positional relationship between the connection end faces of the magnetic structures 100a and 100b and the respective ferrules 80a and 80b is not limited to FIG. 10. For example, the connection end face of the magnetic structure 100a may be set to be recessed with respect to the ferrule 80a, and the connection end face of the other magnetic structure 100b may be set to protrude from the connection end face of the ferrule 80b.

[0101] In this embodiment, since the magnetic attractive force is applied only in the direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b and the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b, no component force is generated in the direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction, and no component force in the aforementioned sliding direction is generated. As a result, no minute deformation occurs in the guide pin holes of the ferrules 80a and 80b. Consequently, this embodiment has the effect of being able to suppress variations in connection loss and realizing a low-loss optical connection as designed.

[0102] Further, in this embodiment, it is not necessary to offset the fiber hole positions in the ferrules 80a and 80b in consideration of the aforementioned component force in the sliding direction. Even if the fiber hole positions in the ferrules 80a and 80b are offset, since the influence of minute deformation of the guide pin holes can be eliminated, it becomes possible to easily set the offset position regardless of the magnetic attractive force or material characteristics. Therefore, even when connecting optical connectors 10a and 10b of different vendors, a low-loss optical connection can be realized. Also, in this embodiment, the machining of the magnetic structures 100a and 100b can be easily performed as compared with the third embodiment.

[0103] [Fifth Embodiment] FIG. 11A is a perspective view before connection of a multi-core optical connector connection structure according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11B is a perspective view after connection of the multi-core optical connector connection structure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-core optical connector connection structure of FIG. 11B cut along the YZ plane.

[0104] The multi-core optical connector connection structure of this embodiment is composed of an optical connector 11a attached to the tips of a plurality of optical fibers 7a, an optical connector 11b attached to the tips of a plurality of optical fibers 7b, and a guide pin 9 that connects the ferrules of the optical connectors 11a and 11b.

[0105] The optical connector 11a is composed of a ferrule 80a (first alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 7a, a boot 81a that bundles the optical fibers 7a, and a magnetic structure 110a (first magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 80a. Similarly, the optical connector 11b is composed of a ferrule 80b (second alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 7b, a boot 81b that bundles the optical fibers 7b, and a magnetic structure 110b (second magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 80b.

[0106] Similar to the third embodiment, one guide pin 9 is inserted into each of the two guide pin holes of the ferrule 80a of the optical connector 11a, and these guide pins 9 are inserted into the guide pin holes of the ferrule 80b of the optical connector 11b to abut the ferrules 80a and 80b against each other, and the optical fibers 7a and 7b against each other, thereby connecting the optical connectors 11a and 11b.

[0107] Also, similar to the third embodiment, the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b are inclined, for example, 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 7a and 7b.

[0108] The difference from the third embodiment is that the magnetic structures 110a and 110b are coupled via a magnetic structure 120 (third magnetic structure). The connection end face 111a of the magnetic structure 110a facing the magnetic structure 120 is inclined 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction so as to be approximately parallel to the connection end face of the ferrule 80a integrated with the magnetic structure 110a and the connection end face of the optical fiber 7a. Similarly, the connection end face 111 of the magnetic structure 110b facing the magnetic structure 120 is inclined 8° with respect to the XY plane so as to be approximately parallel to the connection end face of the ferrule 80b integrated with the magnetic structure 110b and the connection end face of the optical fiber 7b.

[0109] In addition, both connection end faces of the magnetic structure 120 facing the magnetic structures 110a and 110b are inclined by 8° with respect to the XY plane so as to be approximately parallel to the connection end faces 111a and 111b of the magnetic structures 110a and 110b when the optical connectors 11a and 11b are connected.

[0110] Between the magnetic structure 110a and the magnetic structure 120, and between the magnetic structure 110b and the magnetic structure 120, the materials of the respective magnetic structures 110a, 110b, and 120 and the magnetization directions of the N and S poles are set so that magnetic attraction acts. The magnetic structures 110a and 110b are made of a soft magnetic material. The magnetic structure 120 is made of a hard magnetic material, specifically, a combination of two split magnets.

[0111] It is not always necessary to integrate the magnetic structure 120 before connecting the ferrules 80a and 80b. After butting the ferrules 80a and 80b as described above, by inserting the magnetic structure 120 composed of two split magnets between the magnetic structures 110a and 110b, magnetic attraction can be generated between the magnetic structure 110a and the magnetic structure 120, and between the magnetic structure 110b and the magnetic structure 120.

[0112] When disconnecting the optical connectors 11a and 11b, after removing the magnetic structure 120 from between the magnetic structures 110a and 110b, the connection between the ferrules 80a and 80b may be disconnected.

[0113] In this embodiment, since the magnetic attraction is applied only in the direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b, the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b, the connection end faces 111a and 111b of the magnetic structures 110a and 110b, and the connection end face of the magnetic structure 120, no component force is generated in the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 7a and 7b, and no component force in the above-described sliding direction is generated. As a result, no minute deformation occurs in the guide pin holes of the ferrules 80a and 80b. As a result, this embodiment has the effect of being able to suppress variations in connection loss and realizing a low-loss optical connection as designed.

[0114] Also, in this embodiment, it is not necessary to offset the fiber hole positions in the ferrules 80a and 80b in consideration of the component force in the sliding direction described above. Even if the fiber hole positions in the ferrules 80a and 80b are offset, since the influence of minute deformation of the guide pin holes can be eliminated, the offset position can be easily set regardless of the magnetic attraction force or material characteristics. Therefore, even when connecting the optical connectors 11a and 11b of different vendors, a low-loss optical connection can be realized.

[0115] Also, in this embodiment, by adopting a configuration in which the magnetic structure 120 is attached later, it is not necessary to worry about the magnetic attraction force between the magnetic structures 110a and 110b when the ferrules 80a and 80b are butted against each other, and thus the workability at the time of connection can be improved.

[0116] FIG. 13 shows a modified example of this embodiment. The multi-heart-shaped optical connector connection structure of FIG. 13 includes an optical connector 13a attached to the tip of a plurality of optical fibers 7a, an optical connector 13b attached to the tip of a plurality of optical fibers 7b, and a guide pin (not shown) for connecting the ferrules of the optical connectors 13a and 13b.

[0117] The optical connector 13a includes a ferrule 80a (first alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 7a, a boot 81a for bundling the optical fibers 7a, and a magnetic structure 130a (first magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 80a. Similarly, the optical connector 13b includes a ferrule 80b (second alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 7b, a boot 81b for bundling the optical fibers 7b, and a magnetic structure 130b (second magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 80b.

[0118] Similar to the third embodiment, one guide pin 9 is inserted into each of the two guide pin holes of the ferrule 80a of the optical connector 13a, and these guide pins 9 are inserted into the guide pin holes of the ferrule 80b of the optical connector 13b. By butting the ferrules 80a and 80b against each other and butting the optical fibers 7a and 7b against each other, the optical connectors 13a and 13b are connected.

[0119] The difference from the configurations shown in FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 12 is that the connection end faces of the magnetic structures 130a and 130b are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 7a and 7b and are not inclined with respect to the XY plane. In addition, both connection end faces of the magnetic structure 140 inserted between the magnetic structures 130a and 130b also become planes perpendicular to the Z-axis direction.

[0120] Also, the magnetization directions of the magnetic structures 130a, 130b, and 140 are inclined with respect to the Z-axis direction as shown in FIG. 13. Specifically, the magnetization directions of the N pole and the S pole are set in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b.

[0121] Thus, according to the configuration shown in FIG. 13, the same effects as the configurations shown in FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 12 can be obtained. In addition, compared with the configurations shown in FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 12, the magnetic structures 130a, 130b, and 140 can be easily machined. In this embodiment, a soft magnetic material may be used as the material of the magnetic structure 120, and a hard magnetic material may be used as the material of at least one of the magnetic structures 110a and 110b.

[0122] [Sixth Embodiment] FIG. 14A is a perspective view before connection of a multi-core optical connector connection structure according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14B is a perspective view after connection of the multi-core optical connector connection structure. The multi-heart-shaped optical fiber connector connection structure of this embodiment is composed of an optical connector 15a attached to the tip of a plurality of optical fibers 7a, an optical connector 15b attached to the tip of a plurality of optical fibers 7b, and a guide pin 9 that connects the ferrules of the optical connectors 15a and 15b.

[0123] The optical connector 15a is composed of a ferrule 80a (first alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 7a, a boot 81a that bundles the optical fibers 7a, and a magnetic structure 150a (first magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 80a. Similarly, the optical connector 15b is composed of a ferrule 80b (second alignment component) attached to the tip of the optical fiber 7b, a boot 81b that bundles the optical fibers 7b, and a magnetic structure 150b (first member that constitutes the second magnetic structure) attached around the ferrule 80b.

[0124] Similar to the third embodiment, one guide pin 9 is inserted into each of the two guide pin holes of the ferrule 80a of the optical connector 15a, and these guide pins 9 are inserted into the guide pin holes of the ferrule 80b of the optical connector 15b, and the ferrules 80a and 80b are butted against each other to connect the optical connectors 15a and 15b.

[0125] Similar to the third embodiment, the connection end faces of the ferrules 80a and 80b and the connection end faces of the optical fibers 7a and 7b are inclined, for example, by 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the optical fibers 7a and 7b.

[0126] Between the magnetic structure 150a attached around the ferrule 80a and the magnetic structure 150b attached around the ferrule 80b, the materials of the respective magnetic structures 150a and 150b and the magnetization directions of the N and S poles are set so that a magnetic attraction force acts.

[0127] The connecting end face 151a of the magnetic structure 150a facing the magnetic structure 150b is inclined by 8° with respect to the XY plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction so as to be approximately parallel to the connecting end face of the ferrule 80a integrated with the magnetic structure 150a and the connecting end face of the optical fiber 7a. Similarly, the connecting end face 151b of the magnetic structure 150b facing the magnetic structure 150a is inclined by 8° with respect to the XY plane so as to be approximately parallel to the connecting end face of the ferrule 80b integrated with the magnetic structure 150b and the connecting end face of the optical fiber 7b.

[0128] The magnetic structure 150a is made of SUS403 or SUS430 which is a soft magnetic material. The magnetic structure 150b is made of SUS403 or SUS430 which is a soft magnetic material, and the length in the Z-axis direction is set shorter compared to the magnetic structure 150a and the ferrules 80a, 80b.

[0129] The difference from the third embodiment is that after butting the ferrules 80a and 80b as described above, a magnetic structure 152 (a second member constituting the second magnetic structure) composed of two split magnets is mounted behind the magnetic structure 150b facing the magnetic structure 150a. The magnetic structure 152 is made of, for example, a neodymium magnet.

[0130] In this embodiment, by adopting a configuration in which the magnetic structure 152 is mounted later, when butting the ferrules 80a and 80b, it is not necessary to worry much about the magnetic attraction between the magnetic structures 150a and 150b, so the workability during connection can be improved. Further, when the magnetic structure 152 is mounted, a magnetic attraction is generated between the magnetic structure 150a and the magnetic structures 150b, 152, so that the ferrules 80a and 80b can be pressed against each other. Thus, in this embodiment, the same effects as those of the first to fifth embodiments can be obtained.

[0131] When disconnecting the optical connectors 15a and 15b, after removing the magnetic structure 152 from the magnetic structure 150b, the connection between the ferrules 80a and 80b may be disconnected. Therefore, the attachment and detachment operations of the optical connectors 15a and 15b can be easily performed.

[0132] Although omitted in the drawings, two semi-divided soft magnetic materials (SUS403 or SUS430) may be further attached as yokes to the fiber extraction side of the magnetic structure 150b.

[0133] As described above, the first to sixth embodiments have been described. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to any combination of connection targets, connection structures, connection end faces, positioning structures, magnetic structures, materials and arrangements of various components described in the first to sixth embodiments.

[0134] For example, in the first to sixth embodiments, the configuration in which the connection end face of the magnetic structure is inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, and the configuration in which the magnetization direction of the magnetic structure is set in the direction orthogonal to the connection end face of the ferrule and the optical fiber are described as examples. However, the connection end face of the magnetic structure may be inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, and the magnetization direction of the magnetic structure may be set in the direction orthogonal to the connection end face of the ferrule and the optical fiber.

Industrial Applicability

[0135] The present invention can be applied to the technology of connecting optical connectors.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0136] 1a, 1b... optical fibers, 2a, 2b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 8a, 8b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b, 15a, 15b... optical connectors, 3... split sleeve, 9... guide pin, 20a, 20b, 80a, 80b... ferrules, 21a, 21b, 30, 32, 33, 35, 41a, 41b, 48a, 48b, 51a, 51b, 61a, 61b, 82a, 82b, 100a, 100b, 110a, 110b, 120, 130a, 130b, 140, 150a, 150b, 152... magnetic structures, 23a, 23b, 34... capillaries, 81a, 81b... boots, 83a, 83b... guide pin holes.

Claims

1. a first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber; comprising a second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector; the first optical connector includes: a first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber; a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component; the second optical connector includes: a second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber; a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component; when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers such that all end faces are parallel; when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures are inclined with respect to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers such that they are parallel to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components; a split sleeve for connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector; further comprising a third magnetic structure attached around the split sleeve so as to connect between the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected; the first alignment component is a cylindrical ferrule that fixes the first optical fiber such that the connection end face of the first optical fiber is exposed on its connection end face; the second alignment component is a cylindrical ferrule that fixes the second optical fiber such that the connection end face of the second optical fiber is exposed on its connection end face; when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the first and second alignment components are inserted into the split sleeve from both sides of the split sleeve, and are positioned such that the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components abut each other. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, both connection end faces of the third magnetic structure facing the connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures are inclined in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so as to be parallel to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. The first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure are magnetically coupled via the third magnetic structure by magnetic force. The third magnetic structure is composed of a combination of two magnetic materials with a split structure. An optical connector connection structure, characterized in that the magnetic force generated between the first magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure and the magnetic force generated between the second magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure act in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers, the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components, and both connection end faces of the third magnetic structure facing the connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures.

2. A first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber, Composed of a second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector. The first optical connector includes A first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber, And a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component. The second optical connector includes A second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber, And a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so that all end faces are parallel. At least one of the first and second magnetic structures includes a structure made of a hard magnetic material such that the magnetic force generated between the first and second magnetic structures when the first and second optical connectors are connected acts in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components, and the magnetization direction of the hard magnetic material is set in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components.

3. A first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber, Composed of a second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector, The first optical connector, A first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber, And a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component, The second optical connector, A second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber, And a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component, When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so that all the end faces are parallel, A split sleeve for connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, And a third magnetic structure attached around the split sleeve so as to connect between the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, The first alignment component is a cylindrical ferrule that fixes the first optical fiber such that the connection end face of the first optical fiber is exposed on its connection end face, The second alignment component is a cylindrical ferrule that fixes the second optical fiber such that the connection end face of the second optical fiber is exposed on its connection end face, When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the first and second alignment components are inserted into the split sleeve from both sides of the split sleeve, and are positioned such that the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components abut each other, At least one of the first, second, and third magnetic structures includes a structure made of a hard magnetic material such that the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure are magnetically connected by magnetic force via the third magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, The magnetization direction of the hard magnetic material is set such that the magnetic force generated between the first magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure and the magnetic force generated between the second magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure act in a direction perpendicular to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. An optical connector connection structure characterized by this.

4. A first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber, Composed of a second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector, The first optical connector, A first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber, And a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component, The second optical connector, A second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber, And a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component, When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so that all end faces are parallel, When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures are inclined with respect to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so as to be parallel to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components, and the magnetic force generated between the first and second magnetic structures acts in a direction perpendicular to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. Further comprising a guide pin for connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, The first alignment component is a ferrule provided with a guide pin hole, and the first optical fiber is fixed so that the connection end faces of a plurality of the first optical fibers are exposed on its connection end face, The second alignment component is a ferrule provided with a guide pin hole, and the second optical fiber is fixed so that the connection end faces of a plurality of the second optical fibers are exposed on its connection end face, When connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, the guide pins are inserted into the respective guide pin holes of the first and second alignment components, and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are positioned so as to abut against each other. The first magnetic structure is made of a soft magnetic material. The second magnetic structure At the time of connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, a first member made of a soft magnetic material that faces the first magnetic structure, It is composed of a second member made of a hard magnetic material disposed on the end face side opposite to the connection end face of the first member. The second member is composed of a combination of two half-cut hard magnetic materials, and is characterized by an optical connector connection structure.

5. A first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber, It is composed of a second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector. The first optical connector A first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber, And a first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component. The second optical connector A second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber, And a second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component. When connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so that all end faces are parallel. When connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so as to be parallel to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. A guide pin for connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, And a third magnetic structure disposed so as to connect between the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure when connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector. The first alignment component is a ferrule having a guide pin hole, and the first optical fiber is fixed so that the connection end faces of a plurality of the first optical fibers are exposed on the connection end face. The second alignment component is a ferrule having guide pin holes, and the second optical fibers are fixed such that the connection end faces of the plurality of second optical fibers are exposed on the connection end face thereof. When connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, the guide pins are inserted into the respective guide pin holes of the first and second alignment components, and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are positioned so as to abut against each other. When connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, both connection end faces of the third magnetic structure facing the connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so as to be parallel to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components. The first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure are magnetically connected by the third magnetic structure via magnetic force. The third magnetic structure is composed of a combination of two half-divided magnetic materials. An optical connector connection structure, characterized in that the magnetic forces generated between the first magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure and between the second magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure act in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers, the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components, and both connection end faces of the third magnetic structure facing the connection end faces of the first and second magnetic structures.

6. A first optical connector attached to the tip of a first optical fiber, A second optical connector attached to the tip of a second optical fiber and connectable to the first optical connector. The first optical connector includes A first alignment component configured to fix the first optical fiber, A first magnetic structure integrated with the first alignment component. The second optical connector includes A second alignment component configured to fix the second optical fiber, A second magnetic structure integrated with the second alignment component. When connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector, the opposing connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the opposing connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first and second optical fibers so that all end faces are parallel. A guide pin for connecting the first optical connector and the second optical connector. Further comprising a third magnetic structure arranged to connect between the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected. The first alignment component is a ferrule having guide pin holes, and the first optical fibers are fixed such that the connection end faces of the plurality of first optical fibers are exposed on the connection end face thereof. The second alignment component is a ferrule having guide pin holes, and the second optical fibers are fixed such that the connection end faces of the plurality of second optical fibers are exposed on the connection end face thereof. When the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected, the guide pins are inserted into the respective guide pin holes of the first and second alignment components, and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components are positioned to abut against each other. At least one of the first, second, and third magnetic structures includes a structure made of a hard magnetic material such that the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure are magnetically connected by magnetic force via the third magnetic structure when the first optical connector and the second optical connector are connected. An optical connector connection structure, wherein the magnetization direction of the hard magnetic material is set such that the magnetic force generated between the first magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure and the magnetic force generated between the second magnetic structure and the third magnetic structure act in a direction orthogonal to the connection end faces of the first and second optical fibers and the connection end faces of the first and second alignment components.

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