Optical device

Abstract

An optical device (100) comprises, for example: a support member (30) that is integrated with a case (10) in a state of protruding from the case (10) and that is provided with a first opening (30b) through which an optical fiber (20) passes; a sealing material (40) interposed between the support member (30) and the optical fiber (20) within the first opening (30b) of the support member (30); a first coating member (50) surrounding the periphery of the optical fiber (20) in a state of contact with, or distanced from, at least a portion of the coating of the optical fiber (20) on the outside of the case (10) and the outside of the first opening (30b); a second coating member (60) surrounding the periphery of the first coating member (50) in a state of contact with the first coating member (50); and a fixing member (70) for integrating, by joining, the support member (30) and the first coating member (50). Provided along the optical fiber (20) are a first section (S1) in which only the first coating member (50) surrounds the periphery of the coating, and a second section (S2) which is adjacent to the first section (S1) on the side near the support member (30) and in which only the first coating member (50) and the second coating member (60) surround the periphery of the optical fiber (20).

Description

optical device

[0001] The present invention relates to an optical device.

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a structure for protecting an optical fiber by surrounding the optical fiber with a tube, sleeve, boot, or the like at the portion where the optical fiber passes through the case of an optical device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, a plurality of parts that cover the optical fiber are inserted into a pipe that protrudes from the case.

[0003] International Publication No. 2021 / 132681

[0004] In a configuration in which multiple components are inserted into a pipe, as in Patent Document 1, the pipe and therefore the optical device become large, which may not meet the need for miniaturization of optical devices.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore one object of the present invention to provide new and improved optical devices that, for example, can be made smaller.

[0006] An optical device of the present invention includes, for example, a case, an optical fiber extending between the inside and outside of the case, a support member integrated with the case while protruding from the case and having a first opening through which the optical fiber passes, a sealant interposed between the support member and the optical fiber within the first opening of the support member, a first coating member surrounding the optical fiber outside the case and outside the first opening while being in contact with at least a portion of the coating of the optical fiber or leaving a gap therebetween, a second coating member surrounding the first coating member while being in contact with the first coating member, and a fixing member joining the support member and the first coating member to form a single unit, and along the optical fiber there is provided a first section in which only the first coating member surrounds the coating, and a second section adjacent to the first section on the side closer to the support member and in which only the first coating member and the second coating member surround the optical fiber.

[0007] In the optical device, the first section and the second section are flexible and bend in response to a bending input applied to a portion of the optical fiber on the opposite side of the case from the first coating member, and the average value of the radius of curvature of the first section with respect to the bending input may be smaller than the average value of the radius of curvature of the second section with respect to the bending input.

[0008] In the optical device, a third section is provided adjacent to the second section on the opposite side of the first section, in which at least the first coating member and the fixing member surround the optical fiber, and the average value of the radius of curvature of the third section with respect to the bending input may be larger than the average value of the radius of curvature of the second section with respect to the bending input.

[0009] In the optical device, the coating and the first coating member may be slidable relative to each other, and the first coating member and the second coating member may be slidable relative to each other.

[0010] In the optical device, the second covering member may cover at least a part of the outer periphery of the fixing member.

[0011] In the optical device, the second covering member may cover the fixing member so that the fixing member is not exposed.

[0012] In the optical device, the fixing member may join the support member, the first coating member, and the optical fiber together to form an integrated unit.

[0013] The optical device may include a surrounding member that surrounds the fixing member.

[0014] In the optical device, the second covering member may cover an outer periphery of the surrounding member.

[0015] In the optical device, the support member may have a first support portion and a second support portion whose thickness in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the central axis of the first opening is thinner than that of the first support portion, and a portion of the fixing member may surround the second support portion.

[0016] In the optical device, a second opening communicating with the first opening and extending at least in a direction intersecting the axial direction may be provided in the first support portion.

[0017] In the optical device, a second opening communicating with the first opening and extending at least in a direction intersecting the axial direction may be provided in the second support portion.

[0018] In the optical device, a second opening communicating with the first opening and extending in at least a direction intersecting the axial direction may be provided at a boundary between the first support portion and the second support portion.

[0019] In the optical device, an end of the second opening farther from the central axis may be wider than a portion of the second opening closer to the central axis than the end.

[0020] In the optical device, the first support portion may be provided with a first inclined surface that is inclined so as to approach the central axis as it approaches the second opening along the axial direction.

[0021] In the optical device, the second support portion may be provided with a second inclined surface adjacent to the second opening and inclined along the axial direction of the central axis so as to approach the central axis as it moves away from the second opening.

[0022] In the optical device, the support member may be provided with a plurality of first openings as the first openings, through which the optical fibers pass, the first coating member having a plurality of first coating portions each surrounding the coating of the optical fiber outside the case and outside the first openings, the second coating member surrounding the plurality of first coating portions, and the fixing member being in contact with the support member, the plurality of first coating portions, and the second coating member, and fixing the support member, the plurality of first coating portions, and the second coating member.

[0023] In the optical device, the support member may be provided with second openings that communicate with the plurality of first openings and extend in a direction intersecting with the axial direction of the central axes of the first openings.

[0024] In the optical device, the support member may be provided with a plurality of second openings that communicate with the first openings respectively and extend in a direction intersecting with the axial direction of the central axis of the first openings.

[0025] In accordance with the present invention, new and improved optical devices are provided that, for example, may be constructed to be smaller.

[0026] FIG. 1 is an exemplary and schematic perspective view of an optical device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exemplary and schematic cross-sectional view of the optical device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is an exemplary and schematic cross-sectional view of the optical device according to the first embodiment, which crosses the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V of FIG. 3. FIG. 6 is an exemplary and schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the optical device according to the first embodiment, taken at a position equivalent to that shown in FIG. 3, when a bending force is input to an optical fiber in the optical device. FIG. 7 is an exemplary and schematic perspective view of a portion of a support member included in an optical device according to a second embodiment. FIG. 8 is an exemplary and schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a support member included in an optical device according to a third embodiment. FIG. 9 is an exemplary and schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a support member included in an optical device according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is an exemplary and schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a support member included in an optical device according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 11 is an exemplary and schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a support member included in an optical device according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. 12 is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional view of the optical device of the seventh embodiment, taken at a position equivalent to that of Fig. 2. Fig. 13 is an exemplary schematic perspective view of a surrounding member included in the optical device of the seventh embodiment. Fig. 14 is an exemplary schematic perspective view of a surrounding member included in the optical device of the eighth embodiment. Fig. 15 is an exemplary schematic perspective view of a surrounding member included in the optical device of the ninth embodiment. Fig. 16 is an exemplary schematic perspective view of the optical device of the tenth embodiment. Fig. 17 is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional view of the optical device of the tenth embodiment. Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along XVIII-XVIII of Fig. 17.

[0027] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are disclosed below. The configurations of the embodiments described below, as well as the actions and results (effects) brought about by the configurations, are merely examples. The present invention can also be realized by configurations other than those disclosed in the following embodiments. Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to obtain at least one of the various effects (including derivative effects) obtained by the configurations.

[0028] The following embodiments have similar configurations. Therefore, according to the configurations of each embodiment, similar actions and effects based on the similar configurations can be obtained. Furthermore, in the following, similar configurations are given similar reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions may be omitted.

[0029] In this specification, ordinal numbers are given for convenience to distinguish between parts, portions, etc., and do not indicate priority or order.

[0030] Furthermore, each drawing is a schematic diagram, and the shape and dimensions may differ from the actual ones. In each drawing, the X direction is represented by an arrow X, the Y direction is represented by an arrow Y, and the Z direction is represented by an arrow Z. The X direction, Y direction, and Z direction intersect with each other and are perpendicular to each other.

[0031] 1 is a perspective view of an optical device 100A (100) according to a first embodiment. The optical device 100 includes a case 10, an optical fiber 20, a first coating member 50, and a second coating member 60.

[0032] The case 10 has an appearance of a rectangular parallelepiped elongated in the X direction, for example. Components such as optical components and electrical components are housed inside the case 10. The optical components are optically connected to the core of the optical fiber 20. In the configuration of FIG. 1 , the X direction is also referred to as the longitudinal direction, the Y direction is also referred to as the width direction, and the Z direction is also referred to as the thickness direction. Note that the overall shape of the case 10 (optical device 100) is not limited to that shown in FIG. 1 .

[0033] The case 10 has a wall 11 that separates the inside and outside of the case 10. The wall 11 may be made of different materials depending on the location. For example, the wall 11 may be made of copper tungsten (CuW), copper molybdenum (CuMo), aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ), or may have a portion made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as an Fe—Ni—Co alloy, aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ) may have portions made of a material with a low coefficient of thermal expansion.

[0034] The optical fiber 20 has a core wire having a core and a cladding, and a coating surrounding the core wire. The optical fiber 20 penetrates the wall 11 of the case 10 and extends between the inside and outside of the case 10.

[0035] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the optical device 100A taken along a line intersecting the Z direction, and Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the optical device 100A taken along a line intersecting the Y direction.

[0036] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the optical device 100A further includes a support member 30A (30), a sealing material 40, and a fixing member .

[0037] [Supporting Member and Sealing Material] The supporting member 30A is integrated with the case 10. The supporting member 30A protrudes from the surface 11a of the wall 11, in which the opening 11b through which the optical fiber 20 passes, along the penetration direction of the optical fiber, i.e., the X direction.

[0038] In this embodiment, as an example, the support member 30A has a boss portion at an end portion 30c that is partially inserted into an opening 11b provided in the wall 11. The support member 30A is configured as a separate component from the case 10 and is joined to the case 10 by brazing or the like. The support member 30A is made of, for example, an Fe—Ni—Co alloy or aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ The support member 30 may be made of a material with a low thermal expansion coefficient, such as PTFE. However, the support member 30 is not limited to this structure. For example, the support member 30 may pass through the opening 11b, or may not have a boss portion and be fixed on the surface 11a without being partially inserted into the opening 11b. Furthermore, the support member 30 does not necessarily have to be a separate component from the case 10, and may be a part of the case 10 that protrudes from the wall 11.

[0039] The support member 30A has a generally cylindrical shape as a whole, and has an outer peripheral surface 30a that is cylindrical in shape.

[0040] The support member 30A has an opening 30b penetrating in the X direction, and the optical fiber 20 penetrates the opening 30b in the X direction. The opening 30b has a cylindrical inner surface shape. The opening 30b is an example of a first opening through which the optical fiber 20 passes.

[0041] The support member 30A also has an end face 30d in the X direction. The end face 30d is located at the end opposite the case 10, i.e., at the end in the X direction. The end face 30d is an annular flat surface that intersects with and is perpendicular to the X direction and faces the X direction.

[0042] A sealant 40 is interposed between the inner surface of the opening 30b and the outer circumferential surface of the optical fiber 20. The sealant 40 fixes the optical fiber 20 to the support member 30A. The sealant 40 also hermetically seals the gap between the inner surface of the opening 30b and the optical fiber 20. The coating of the optical fiber 20 is removed within the opening 30b. That is, the sealant 40 hermetically seals the gap between the inner surface of the opening 30b and the outer circumferential surface of the core of the optical fiber 20. The sealant 40 is, for example, solder, but is not limited to this. The central axis Ax shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 is the central axis of the opening 30b. Although the central axis of the optical fiber 20 and the central axis Ax of the opening 30b are shown to coincide in these figures, they do not necessarily have to coincide.

[0043] As shown in Figure 3, the support member 30A has a first support portion 30e located on the side closer to the case 10 and a second support portion 30f located on the opposite side of the case 10 from the first support portion 30e.

[0044] 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line IV-IV in FIG. 3. As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 4, the first support portion 30e has a cylindrical shape. On the other hand, the second support portion 30f has a notch 30f1 formed by partially cutting out the cylindrical outer peripheral surface 30a, and the thickness of the second support portion 30f in one direction (Z direction) intersecting with the axial direction (X direction) of the central axis Ax is thinner than that of the first support portion 30e. The cross section of the second support portion 30f intersecting with the central axis Ax has a substantially D-shape. The notch 30f1 may also be referred to as a recess.

[0045] 3, an opening 30g is provided at the boundary between the first support portion 30e and the second support portion 30f of the support member 30A. The opening 30g communicates with the opening 30b and extends in a direction intersecting at least the axial direction (X direction) of the central axis Ax of the opening 30b. In this embodiment, the opening 30g is a through-hole extending in the Z direction. The opening 30g is used as a flow path or an injection port for injecting the sealant 40 in a fluid state before solidification into the opening 30b. The sealant 40 in a fluid state is poured from the opening end of the opening 30g farther from the opening 30b. The opening 30g is an example of a second opening.

[0046] Because a larger amount of the fluid sealant 40 is poured to more reliably fill the opening 30b, the excess may overflow slightly from the opening edge of the opening 30g. If the excess increases the width or thickness of the support member 30A, the structure surrounding the support member 30A and, ultimately, the optical device 100A may become larger. This may limit the space available for installing the optical device 100. In this regard, in this embodiment, the opening edge of the opening 30g is adjacent to the notch 30f1 (recess) provided in the second support portion 30f. This allows the excess fluid sealant 40 to be accommodated in the notch 30f1 (recess). This prevents the excess sealant 40 from increasing the size of the structure surrounding the support member 30A and, ultimately, the optical device 100A.

[0047] 2 and 3 is a tube made of a synthetic resin material such as an elastomer. That is, the first coating member 50 is flexible and elastic, and has an elongated cylindrical shape with an annular cross-sectional shape. The first coating member 50 surrounds the optical fiber 20 over a predetermined length, either in contact with or with a gap between the first coating member 50 and at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the coating of the optical fiber 20.

[0048] The first coating member 50 is not bonded to the optical fiber 20, and the inner peripheral surface of the first coating member 50 and the outer peripheral surface of the coating of the optical fiber 20 are configured to be slidable relative to each other. With this configuration, when the optical fiber 20 is bent, the first coating member 50 becomes taut, which can prevent an increase in the force acting on the optical fiber 20 from the first coating member 50.

[0049] 2 and 3 , the first covering member 50 is located outside the case 10 and outside the opening 30b of the support member 30A. Specifically, the first covering member 50 is located on the opposite side of the wall 11 of the case 10 with respect to the end face 30d of the support member 30A, i.e., offset in the X direction from the end face 30d, and is not housed within the opening 30b of the support member 30A. If the first covering member 50 were located within the opening 30b, the diameter of the opening 30b would be increased accordingly, which would increase the diameter of the support member 30A and further increase the thickness and width of the optical device 100A around the support member 30A. In this case, there is a risk that the installation space for the optical device 100A would be limited. In this regard, in the present embodiment, the first covering member 50 is positioned offset in the X direction from the end face 30d of the support member 30A and is not housed within the opening 30b, thereby preventing the support member 30A and, in turn, the optical device 100A from becoming larger.

[0050] [Fixing Member] The fixing member 70 bonds and integrates the support member 30 and the first covering member 50. The fixing member 70 is, for example, an adhesive made of a synthetic resin material. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line V-V in FIG. 3. As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 5, the fixing member 70 surrounds and is bonded to the outer periphery of the end of the first covering member 50 closest to the case 10, in other words, the section close to the end opposite the X-direction. Also, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the fixing member 70 surrounds and is bonded to the outer periphery of a portion of the outer periphery 30a of the support member 30 farther from the case 10, in contact with the outer periphery. That is, the support member 30 and the first covering member 50 are bonded and integrated via the fixing member 70. The fixing member 70 can hold the first covering member 50 at a position separated from the support member 30.

[0051] 3 and 4 , the fixing member 70 surrounds the second support portion 30f of the support member 30A. As described above, the second support portion 30f is a thinner portion of the support member 30A than the first support portion 30e. Therefore, this configuration ensures a greater thickness at the portion of the fixing member 70 surrounding the support member 30A, making it easier to ensure the rigidity of the fixing member 70 and, ultimately, the bonding strength between the fixing member 70 and the support member 30A. Furthermore, even if the sealing material 40 overflowing from the opening 30g is present in the notch 30f1 (recess), it is easier to ensure the required thickness of the fixing member 70 around the notch 30f1, which is advantageous in that it is easier to ensure the required bonding strength.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the optical fiber 20 has a section that is not covered with the first coating member 50 at a position facing the end face 30d of the support member 30, and the fixing member 70 is also joined to this section. The fixing member 70 surrounds and is joined to a portion of the outer periphery of the optical fiber 20 while being in contact with the outer periphery. That is, in this embodiment, the support member 30, the first coating member 50, and the optical fiber 20 are joined and integrated via the fixing member 70.

[0053] The fixing member 70 configured as an adhesive is applied in a fluid state so as to surround the outer peripheries of the support member 30, the optical fiber 20, and the first coating member 50. Thereafter, the fixing member 70 is solidified into a relatively hard state.

[0054] 3 and 5 , the second covering member 60 is in contact with at least a portion of the outer circumferential surfaces of the fixing member 70, the first covering member 50, and the supporting member 30, and surrounds at least a portion of the fixing member 70, the first covering member 50, and the supporting member 30. The second covering member 60 is flexible and elastic.

[0055] The second covering member 60 is, for example, a heat-shrinkable tube made of a synthetic resin material. In this case, the second covering member 60 is attached so as to loosely surround the fixing member 70, the first covering member 50, and the supporting member 30, and then shrinks when heated, so that the fixing member 70, the first covering member 50, and the supporting member 30 are tightly surrounded and held by them.

[0056] The second covering member 60 surrounds a portion of the first covering member 50 on the side closer to the case 10 , leaving the side of the first covering member 50 farther from the case 10 exposed.

[0057] The second covering member 60 also covers at least a portion of the outer periphery of the fixing member 70. This makes it possible to prevent the second covering member 60 from slipping out in a direction away from the case 10 due to the frictional force between the second covering member 60 and the fixing member 70. In this embodiment, the second covering member 60 also surrounds almost the entire periphery of the fixing member 70 so that the fixing member 70 is not exposed. This makes it possible to enhance the protection of the fixing member 70 and to prevent the aesthetic appearance of the optical device 100 from being impaired by the fixing member 70 being exposed.

[0058] Furthermore, the second covering member 60 contacts the surface 11 a of the wall 11 of the case 10 or extends to a position close to the surface 11 a, and covers the periphery of a portion of the support member 30 that is closer to the case 10. This enhances the protection of the support member 30 and prevents the aesthetic appearance of the optical device 100 from being impaired by the support member 30 being exposed. However, it is not essential that the second covering member 60 cover the fixing member 70 and the support member 30.

[0059] Furthermore, the second coating member 60 is not bonded to the fixing member 70, the first coating member 50, and the supporting member 30, but is held to the fixing member 70, the first coating member 50, and the supporting member 30 mainly by frictional force. In this configuration, the second coating member 60 is arranged to sandwich the fixing member 70 in the longitudinal direction (X direction), which prevents the second coating member 60 from slipping out in a direction away from the case 10. On the other hand, the second coating member 60 and the first coating member 50 are configured to be slidable relative to each other. With this configuration, when the optical fiber 20 is bent, the second coating member 60 becomes taut, which prevents an increase in the force acting from the second coating member 60 on the first coating member 50 and ultimately on the optical fiber 20.

[0060] [Deformation Response to Bending Input] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the optical device 100A, taken at a position equivalent to that shown in Figure 3 , in a state in which the optical fiber 20 is bent due to a bending input F being input to the optical fiber 20. As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 6, with the above-described configuration, the optical device 100A has a first section S1, a second section S2, and a third section S3 along the optical fiber 20, all of which are spaced apart from the case 10 and the support member 30A. The first section S1 is a section in which only the first coating member 50 surrounds the coating of the optical fiber 20. The second section S2 is a section adjacent to the first section S1 on the side closer to the case 10 and the support member 30A, and is a section in which only the first coating member 50 and the second coating member 60 surround the optical fiber 20. The third section S3 is a section adjacent to the second section S2 on the opposite side from the first section S1, and is a section in which the first coating member 50, the fixing member 70, and the second coating member 60 surround the optical fiber 20. The second coating member 60 does not have to surround the optical fiber 20 over the entire third section S3.

[0061] As described above, the first coating member 50 and the second coating member 60 are flexible and elastic, and therefore bend in accordance with the bending of the optical fiber 20 in response to a bending input F applied to an uncovered portion of the optical fiber 20. In this case, the first section S1 is covered only with the first coating member 50, and the second section S2 is covered with the first coating member 50 and the second coating member 60. Therefore, the second section S2 is less likely to bend than the first section S1. Furthermore, the third section S3 includes the relatively hard fixing member 70, and is therefore less likely to bend than the first section S1 and the second section S2. Note that the third section S3 is configured, for example, to bend slightly or barely at all in response to a bending input F that would bend the optical fiber 20 without breaking it.

[0062] In this configuration, when the curvature states of each section corresponding to the bending input F are compared based on the radius of curvature of the central axis Axf of the optical fiber 20 (the radius of curvature in a plane along the input direction of the bending input F), the average value of the radius of curvature R0 in the uncoated exposed section of the optical fiber 20 (from the end of the first coating member 50 to the input point) is smallest. Furthermore, the average value of the radius of curvature R1 in the first section S1 is greater than the average value of the radius of curvature R0, and the average value of the radius of curvature R2 in the second section S2 is greater than the average value of the radius of curvature R1. The average value of the radius of curvature R3 in the third section S3 is greatest. That is, (average value of the radius of curvature R3) > (average value of the radius of curvature R2) > (average value of the radius of curvature R1) > (average value of the radius of curvature R0). That is, with this configuration, the radius of curvature of the optical fiber 20 can be gradually reduced from the third section S3 toward the second section S2, the first section S1, and the input point of the bending input F to the optical fiber 20. Therefore, sudden bending of the optical fiber 20 in response to the bending input F, and consequently damage to the optical fiber 20, can be suppressed.

[0063] As described above, in this embodiment, the optical device 100A includes a first section S1 in which the optical fiber 20 is surrounded only by the first coating member 50, and a second section S2 adjacent to the first section S1 on the side closer to the support member 30A and surrounded only by the first coating member 50 and the second coating member 60. This allows the optical fiber 20 to bend gradually more as it moves away from the support member 30A in response to a bending input F of the optical fiber 20, thereby preventing sudden bending and, ultimately, damage to the optical fiber 20. Furthermore, because the first coating member 50 is provided outside the support member 30A rather than being housed within the opening 30b of the support member 30A, it is possible to prevent the peripheral portion of the support member 30A, and therefore the optical device 100A, from becoming thick or enlarged, thereby enabling the optical device 100A to be configured more compactly.

[0064] In this embodiment, the second support portion 30f is configured to be thinner or narrower in the Z direction than the first support portion 30e. The Z direction may be a normal direction to a mounting surface of components such as optical components, electrical components, and electronic components on a substrate housed in the case 10. However, the Z direction is not limited to this, and may be any direction intersecting with the X direction as long as the Z direction is a direction in which the size of the peripheral portion of the support member 30, and therefore the optical device 100, is limited, or a direction in which a thinner portion is preferable.

[0065] 7 is a perspective view of a portion of a support member 30B (30) according to a second embodiment. The support member 30B can be provided in place of the support member 30A according to the first embodiment. In this case, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0066] However, as shown in Fig. 7, in this embodiment, the second support portion 30f is configured by providing a notch 30f1 (recess) formed by cutting out a semi-cylindrical section of a predetermined length in the X direction at the end of the support member 30B in the X direction. The notch 30f1 has a surface 30h that intersects with the Z direction and is substantially perpendicular to the Z direction and faces the Z direction. The notch 30f1 communicates with the opening 30b. The opening 30b is provided as a recessed groove in the surface 30h.

[0067] Furthermore, the opening 30g communicating with the opening 30b is provided in the first support portion 30e, not in the second support portion 30f. The opening 30g is also configured as a semi-cylindrical notch (recess) cut out of the first support portion 30e over a predetermined length in the X direction. In this case, the opening 30g extends radially from the central axis Ax of the opening 30b, i.e., in a direction intersecting with the axial direction (X direction). The opening 30g also has a surface 30h that intersects with the Z direction and is substantially perpendicular to the Z direction. In this portion, the opening 30b is also provided as a recess in the surface 30h. In this embodiment, the notch 30f1 provided in the second support portion 30f serves as another opening 30g communicating with the opening 30b.

[0068] In this configuration, the sealant 40 (not shown in FIG. 7 , see FIG. 3 etc.) can be injected into the opening 30b through the opening 30g or the notch 30f1. According to this embodiment, the sealant 40 that overflows from the opening 30b can be contained in the opening 30g or the notch 30f1, and the overflowed sealant 40 can be prevented from making the peripheral portion of the support member 30B, and ultimately the optical device including the support member 30B, thicker or larger. In other words, this embodiment also allows the optical device to be made smaller.

[0069] 8 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a support member 30C (30) according to a third embodiment. The support member 30C can be provided in place of the support member 30A according to the first embodiment. In this case, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0070] However, as shown in Fig. 8, in this embodiment, the opening 30g is provided in the first support portion 30e. The opening 30g is configured as a notch similar to that in the second embodiment. Note that the second support portion 30f (not shown in Fig. 8) may be configured as a notch 30f1 (recess) similar to that in the first or second embodiment.

[0071] Furthermore, the first support portion 30e is provided with inclined surfaces 30i at positions adjacent to the opening 30g in the X direction and at positions adjacent to the opening 30g in the opposite direction to the X direction. The inclined surfaces 30i extend along the axial direction of the opening 30b (the X direction or the direction opposite to the X direction) so as to approach the central axis Ax as they approach the opening 30g. In this case, the inclined surfaces 30i each provide a space 30i1 adjacent to the opening end of the opening 30g that is far from the central axis Ax. The inclined surfaces 30i may be flat or may be curved, such as a concave surface. The inclined surfaces 30i are an example of a first inclined surface.

[0072] In this configuration, the sealant 40 (not shown in FIG. 8 , see FIG. 3 etc.) can be injected into the opening 30b through the opening 30g. According to this embodiment, the sealant 40 that overflows from the opening 30g can be contained in the space 30i1, and the overflowed sealant 40 can be prevented from making the peripheral portion of the support member 30C, and ultimately the optical device including the support member 30C, thicker or larger. In other words, this embodiment also allows the optical device to be made smaller.

[0073] The space 30i1 formed by the inclined surface 30i can be considered to be a part of the opening 30g. In this case, it can be said that the end of the opening 30g farther from the central axis Ax is wider than the portion of the opening 30g closer to the central axis Ax than the end.

[0074] 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a support member 30D (30) according to a fourth embodiment. The support member 30D can be provided in place of the support member 30A according to the first embodiment. In this case, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0075] 9, in this embodiment, the opening 30g is provided in the second support portion 30f. The second support portion 30f is configured with a notch 30f1 similar to that in the first embodiment. The opening 30g is configured as a through-hole extending in the Z direction as in the first embodiment.

[0076] In this configuration, the sealant 40 (not shown in FIG. 9 , see FIG. 3 etc.) can be injected into the opening 30b through the opening 30g. According to this embodiment, the sealant 40 that overflows from the opening 30g can be contained in the notch 30f1, and the overflowed sealant 40 can be prevented from making the peripheral portion of the support member 30D, and ultimately the optical device including the support member 30D, thicker or larger. In other words, this embodiment also allows the optical device to be made smaller.

[0077] 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a support member 30E (30) according to a fifth embodiment. The support member 30E can be provided in place of the support member 30A of the first embodiment. In this case, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 10 , in this embodiment, the opening 30g is also located at the boundary between the first support portion 30e and the second support portion 30f. However, in this embodiment, the second support portion 30f is configured with an inclined surface 30j adjacent to the opening 30g in the X direction. The inclined surface 30j is inclined along the axial direction (X direction) of the central axis Ax of the opening 30b so as to approach the central axis Ax as it moves away from the opening 30g. The inclined surface 30j causes the second support portion 30f to gradually narrow or become thinner as it moves away from the opening 30g in the X direction. The inclined surface 30j may be, for example, a flat surface such as a plane extending in the Y direction, or a curved surface such as a surface of revolution about the central axis Ax. In the latter case, the inclined surface 30j may also be referred to as a tapered surface. In this case, the inclined surface 30j provides a space 30j1 adjacent to the opening end of the opening 30g that is far from the central axis Ax. The inclined surface 30j may be a flat surface or a curved surface such as a concave surface. The inclined surface 30j is an example of a second inclined surface.

[0079] In this configuration, the sealant 40 (not shown in FIG. 10 , see FIG. 3 etc.) can be injected into the opening 30b through the opening 30g. According to this embodiment, the sealant 40 that overflows from the opening 30g can be contained in the space 30j1, and the overflowed sealant 40 can be prevented from making the peripheral portion of the support member 30E, and ultimately the optical device including the support member 30E, thicker or larger. In other words, this embodiment also allows the optical device to be made smaller.

[0080] 11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a support member 30F (30) according to a sixth embodiment. The support member 30F can be provided in place of the support member 30A of the first embodiment. In this case, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0081] However, as shown in FIG. 11 , in this embodiment, the opening 30g is provided in the second support portion 30f. Also, a notch 30f1 similar to that in the first embodiment is provided from the first support portion 30e to the second support portion 30f. Furthermore, a notch 30f2 separate from the notch 30f1 is provided in the second support portion 30f. The notch 30f1 is located at the end of the second support portion 30f in the Z direction, and the notch 30f2 is located at the end of the second support portion 30f in the opposite direction in the Z direction. The notch 30f1 is provided with a surface 30h that intersects with the Z direction and is approximately perpendicular to the Z direction, facing the Z direction. The notch 30f2 is provided with a surface 30k that intersects with the Z direction and is approximately perpendicular to the Z direction, facing the opposite direction to the Z direction.

[0082] In this configuration, the sealant 40 (not shown in FIG. 11 , see FIG. 3 etc.) can be injected into the opening 30b through the opening 30g. According to this embodiment, the sealant 40 that overflows from the opening 30g can be contained in the notch 30f1, and the overflowed sealant 40 can be prevented from making the peripheral portion of the support member 30F, and ultimately the optical device including the support member 30F, thicker or larger. In other words, this embodiment also allows the optical device to be made smaller.

[0083] Furthermore, in this embodiment, both the first support portion 30e and the second support portion 30f can be made thinner or narrower, and the optical device can be made even smaller accordingly.

[0084] [Seventh Embodiment] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an optical device 100G (100) according to a seventh embodiment, taken at the same position as in Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 12, in this embodiment, the optical device 100G includes a surrounding member 90G (90) that surrounds the fixing member 70.

[0085] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the surrounding member 90G. As shown in FIG. 13, the surrounding member 90G has a relatively thin, cylindrical shape. The surrounding member 90G can be made of, for example, a material with a higher elastic modulus and a harder property than the fixing member 70, such as a metal material, specifically, for example, an iron-based material such as stainless steel, a copper-based material such as a copper alloy, or an aluminum-based material such as an aluminum alloy. This configuration allows for a relatively simple structure of the surrounding member 90G to be provided through a relatively easy process, thereby further increasing the rigidity and strength of the structure surrounding the optical fiber 20. Furthermore, since the irregularities on the outer peripheral surface can be reduced compared to the fixing member 70, the thickness and diameter of the structure surrounding the optical fiber 20 can be more easily controlled, and the appearance of the structure surrounding the optical fiber 20 can be improved. Furthermore, the surrounding member 90G can also be used as a mold for the fixing member 70 by, for example, providing an opening, such as a notch or a hole, in the surrounding member 90G and injecting the fixing member 70 in a fluid state through the opening. In this case, there is an advantage in that it is possible to further reduce the time and cost required to provide the fixing member 70. The surrounding member 90 may also be referred to as a reinforcing member.

[0086] Eighth and Ninth Embodiments FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a surrounding member 90H (90) according to an eighth embodiment, and FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a surrounding member 90I (90) according to a ninth embodiment.

[0087] In the seventh embodiment, the surrounding member 90G is a seamless pipe. However, in the eighth and ninth embodiments, the surrounding members 90H and 90I are formed by bending a plate material into a cylindrical shape. Therefore, the surrounding members 90H and 90I are provided with a gap 90a (slit) extending in the X direction. This configuration allows the surrounding member 90 to be formed from a plate material. Furthermore, as in the ninth embodiment ( FIG. 15 ), by providing both ends facing the gap 90a with a concave-convex structure that engages with each other in the X direction, it is possible to prevent the both ends facing the gap 90a from shifting with each other in the X direction, thereby preventing the cylindrical shape of the surrounding member 90I from being damaged.

[0088] Tenth Embodiment Fig. 16 is a perspective view of an optical device 100J (100) according to a tenth embodiment. Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the optical device 100J taken at the same position as in Fig. 2, and Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII in Fig. 17.

[0089] As shown in Figures 16 to 18, the optical device 100J includes a plurality of optical fibers 20. Also, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, a support member 30J (30) is provided with a plurality of openings 30b corresponding to the plurality of optical fibers 20. A first coating member 50 surrounds each optical fiber 20. A second coating member 60 surrounds the plurality of first coating members 50. Also, a fixing member 70 contacts the support member 30J, the plurality of first coating members 50, the second coating member 60, and the plurality of optical fibers 20, and fixes the support member 30J, the plurality of first coating members 50, the second coating member 60, and the plurality of optical fibers 20. In this configuration, the openings 30b are an example of a first opening, and the first coating member 50 is an example of a first coating portion.

[0090] 18, in this embodiment, as an example, a notch 30f1 provided in the second support portion 30f functions as the opening 30g. In this case, the opening 30g communicates with a plurality of openings 30b. However, the support member 30J is not limited to this, and openings 30g (second openings) may be provided corresponding to the openings 30b. The position of the openings 30g and the shape of the support member 30J can be variously modified.

[0091] As described above, according to this embodiment, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment can be obtained even in the optical device 100J in which a plurality of optical fibers 20 penetrate the wall 11. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the support member 30J, the second coating member 60, and the fixing member 70 can be one for each of the plurality of optical fibers 20. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which these members are provided for each of the optical fibers 20, the number of parts can be reduced, and the labor and cost required for manufacturing can be reduced. Note that, although the number of optical fibers 20 is two in the tenth embodiment, this is not limited thereto and may be three or more.

[0092] While the above describes exemplary embodiments and modifications of the present invention, these are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The above embodiments and modifications can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, combinations, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the specifications of each configuration, shape, and the like (structure, type, direction, model, size, length, width, thickness, height, number, arrangement, position, material, etc.) can be appropriately modified and implemented.

[0093] For example, the direction in which the second opening extends and the direction in which the notch (recess) faces can be set to a direction in which the thickness or width of the optical element is desired to be reduced, and can be set to various directions. Furthermore, the configuration disclosed in the above embodiment can be applied to various optical devices.

[0094] The surrounding member may be made of a material other than a metal material, such as a synthetic resin material. The surrounding member may also be made of a transparent material. In this case, even if the optical fiber is damaged in the section covered by the fixing member, the light leaking from the damaged area can be visually recognized from outside the surrounding member while the surrounding member is attached. Furthermore, the surrounding member may be a heat-shrinkable tube. In this case, the surrounding member can be attached more easily.

[0095] The present invention can be used in optical devices.

[0096] 10... Case 11... Wall 11a... Surface 11b... Opening 20... Optical fiber 30, 30A to 30F, 30J... Supporting member 30a... Outer peripheral surface 30b... Opening (first opening) 30c... End 30d... End surface 30e... First supporting portion 30f... Second supporting portion 30f1... Notch 30f2... Notch 30g... Opening (second opening, second opening portion) 30h... Surface 30i... Inclined surface (first inclined surface) 30i1... Space 30j... Inclined surface (second inclined surface) 30j1... Space 30k... Surface 40... Sealing member 50... First covering member (first covering portion) 60...Second covering member 70...Fixing member 90, 90G, 90H, 90I...Surrounding member 90a...Gap 100, 100A, 100G, 100J...Optical device Ax...Center axis of the opening Axf...Center axis of the optical fiber F...Curved input force R0, R1, R2, R3...Radius of curvature S1...First section S2...Second section S3...Third section X...Direction Y...Direction Z...Direction

Claims

an optical fiber extending between the inside and outside of the case; a support member integrated with the case while protruding from the case and having a first opening through which the optical fiber passes; a sealant interposed between the support member and the optical fiber within the first opening of the support member; a first coating member surrounding the optical fiber on the outside of the case and outside the first opening, in contact with or with a gap between the coating of the optical fiber; a second coating member surrounding the first coating member while in contact with the first coating member; and a fixing member joining the support member and the first coating member to form a single unit, wherein a first section along the optical fiber is provided in which only the first coating member surrounds the coating, and a second section adjacent to the first section on the side closer to the support member, in which only the first coating member and the second coating member surround the optical fiber.

2. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein the first section and the second section are flexible and bend in response to a bending input applied to a portion of the optical fiber opposite the case with respect to the first coating member, and the average value of the radius of curvature of the first section in response to the bending input is smaller than the average value of the radius of curvature of the second section in response to the bending input.

3. The optical device according to claim 2, wherein a third section is provided adjacent to the second section on the opposite side of the first section, in which at least the first coating member and the fixing member surround the periphery of the optical fiber, and the average value of the radius of curvature of the third section with respect to the bending input is greater than the average value of the radius of curvature of the second section with respect to the bending input.

4. The optical device of claim 1, wherein the coating and the first coating member are slidable relative to one another, and the first coating member and the second coating member are slidable relative to one another.

5. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second covering member covers at least a part of the outer periphery of the fixing member.

6. The optical device according to claim 5, wherein the second covering member covers the fixing member in a state where the fixing member is not exposed.

7. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein the fixing member bonds and integrates the support member, the first coating member, and the optical fiber.

8. The optical device according to claim 1, further comprising a surrounding member surrounding the periphery of said fixing member.

9. The optical device according to claim 8, wherein the second covering member covers the outer periphery of the surrounding member.

10. The optical device described in claim 1, wherein the support member has a first support portion and a second support portion whose thickness in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the central axis of the first opening is thinner than that of the first support portion, and a portion of the fixing member surrounds the periphery of the second support portion.

11. The optical device according to claim 10, wherein a second opening communicating with the first opening and extending at least in a direction intersecting the axial direction is provided in the first support portion.

12. The optical device according to claim 10, wherein a second opening communicating with the first opening and extending at least in a direction intersecting the axial direction is provided in the second support portion.

13. The optical device according to claim 10, wherein a second opening communicating with the first opening and extending in at least a direction intersecting the axial direction is provided at the boundary between the first support portion and the second support portion.

14. An optical device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein an end of the second opening farther from the central axis is wider than a portion of the second opening closer to the central axis than the end.

15. The optical device according to claim 11, wherein the first support portion is provided with a first inclined surface that is inclined so as to approach the central axis as it approaches the second opening along the axial direction.

16. The optical device according to claim 13, wherein the second support portion is provided with a second inclined surface adjacent to the second opening and inclined in the axial direction of the central axis so as to approach the central axis as it moves away from the second opening.

17. The optical device of claim 1, wherein the support member is provided with a plurality of first openings as the first openings, through which the optical fibers pass, the first coating member has a plurality of first coating portions that surround the periphery of the coating of the optical fiber outside the case and outside the first openings, the second coating member surrounds the periphery of the plurality of first coating portions, and the fixing member is in contact with the support member, the plurality of first coating portions, and the second coating member, and fixes the support member, the plurality of first coating portions, and the second coating member together.

18. The optical device according to claim 17, wherein the support member is provided with second openings communicating with the plurality of first openings and extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the central axes of the first openings.

19. The optical device according to claim 17, wherein the support member is provided with a plurality of second openings communicating with the respective first openings and extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the central axis of the first openings.

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