Optical module cover component, optical module holding component, and optical module assembly component

Abstract

The purpose of the present disclosure is to make it easy to assemble an optical module and an optical module holding component, thereby preventing the optical module from being deformed, and to make it easy to remove the optical module holding component from an optical module assembly component and a separate printed board, thereby preventing the optical module and the separate printed board from being damaged.　The present disclosure causes a notch structure (C12) and a recess-shaped structure (C15) that are formed in a cover member (C1) which covers an optical module (P1) and a claw-shaped structure (H12) and a protrusion structure (H15) that are disposed in an optical module holding component (H1) to correspond to each other, thereby obviating the need for an adhesive, screw fastening, or the like.

Description

Optical module cover parts, optical module holding parts and optical module assembly parts

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technique for mounting an optical module to which an optical fiber is connected.

[0002] A technique for mounting an optical module to which an optical fiber is connected is disclosed in Patent Document 1, etc. Before packaging and transportation to a customer, the optical module (attached to a printed circuit board having a BGA (Ball Grid Array) surface, etc.) and an optical module holding part are assembled, and the optical fiber is wound around the optical module holding part to manufacture an optical module assembly.

[0003] During secondary mounting at the customer's facility, the optical module assembly is placed on a mounter, a separate printed circuit board (joined to a printed circuit board having a BGA surface or the like) is mounted on the optical module assembly, the optical module assembly and the separate printed circuit board are heat treated in a reflow furnace, the separate printed circuit board is soldered to the optical module assembly, the optical fiber is unwound, and the optical module holding component is removed from the optical module assembly and the separate printed circuit board.

[0004] International Publication No. 2022-029941

[0005] Patent Document 1 does not specifically disclose how to assemble the optical module and the optical module holding part before packaging and shipping to the customer. Here, it is conceivable to assemble the optical module and the optical module holding part by using adhesive or screw fastening, etc.

[0006] As a result, before packaging and shipping to the customer, a large pressure must be applied to the optical module when assembling the optical module and the optical module holding parts, which makes it difficult to assemble the optical module and the optical module holding parts, and this can result in deformation of the optical module.

[0007] On the other hand, when the optical module holder is removed from the optical module assembly and the separate printed circuit board during secondary mounting at the customer's site, a large stress must be applied to the optical module and the separate printed circuit board, making them difficult to remove, which can damage the optical module and the separate printed circuit board and limit the mounting area for other electronic components, thereby reducing the mounting efficiency of electronic components.

[0008] Therefore, in order to solve the above problems, the present disclosure aims to easily assemble an optical module and an optical module holding component without deforming the optical module, and to easily detach the optical module holding component from the optical module assembly component and the separate printed circuit board without damaging the optical module and the separate printed circuit board.

[0009] In order to solve the above problem, the cutout structure and recessed structure formed on the cover member that covers the optical module and the claw-shaped structure and protrusion structure placed on the optical module holding part are made to correspond to each other, thereby eliminating the need for adhesives or screw fastening, etc.

[0010] Specifically, the present disclosure relates to an optical module cover component comprising an optical module having a printed circuit board assembled thereto and an optical fiber connected thereto, and a cover member covering the side of the optical module opposite the printed circuit board, wherein a cutout structure is formed in a portion of the periphery of the cover member on the same side as the optical module, and the thickness of the periphery of the cover member in the portion of the periphery where the cutout structure is formed is thinner than the remainder of the periphery of the cover member where the cutout structure is not formed.

[0011] According to this configuration, the optical module and the optical module holding part can be assembled by linear or rotational movement using a cutout structure formed in the cover member that covers the optical module, which corresponds to the claw-shaped structure placed on the optical module holding part, and the optical module holding part can be removed from the optical module assembly part by linear or rotational movement.

[0012] The present disclosure also provides an optical module cover component characterized in that a concave structure is formed on the opposite side of the cover member from the optical module and near the periphery of the cover member except for the area around the center of the cover member.

[0013] According to this configuration, the optical module and the optical module holding part can be assembled by linear or rotational movement using a concave structure formed in the cover member that covers the optical module, which corresponds to the protrusion structure arranged on the optical module holding part, and the optical module holding part can be removed from the optical module assembly part by linear or rotational movement.

[0014] The present disclosure also provides an optical module holding component characterized by comprising: a mounting surface on which an optical module to which an optical fiber is connected is placed; a claw-shaped structure arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface and extending inward of the mounting surface; and a protrusion structure arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface and dividing the inside and outside of the mounting surface.

[0015] According to this configuration, the optical module and the optical module holding part can be assembled by linear movement using claw-like structures and protrusion structures arranged on the optical module holding part that correspond to the cutout structures and recessed structures formed in the cover member that covers the optical module, and the optical module holding part can be removed from the optical module assembly part by linear movement.

[0016] The present disclosure also provides an optical module holding component characterized by comprising: a mounting surface on which an optical module to which an optical fiber is connected is placed; a claw-shaped structure arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface and extending inward of the mounting surface; and a protrusion structure arranged near the periphery of the mounting surface except for around the center of the mounting surface.

[0017] According to this configuration, the optical module and the optical module holding part can be assembled by rotational movement using claw-like structures and protrusion structures arranged on the optical module holding part that correspond to the cutout structure and recessed structure formed in the cover member that covers the optical module, and the optical module holding part can be removed from the optical module assembly part by rotational movement.

[0018] The present disclosure also provides an optical module holding component, characterized in that a wall-like structure is erected on the opposite side of the mounting surface from the optical module and approximately perpendicular to the mounting surface, and the optical fiber is wound around the outer periphery of the wall-like structure.

[0019] According to this configuration, instead of manually winding the optical fiber along the inner periphery of the wall-like structure, the optical fiber can be automatically wound around the bobbin on the outer periphery of the wall-like structure.

[0020] The present disclosure also relates to an optical module assembly component, characterized in that when the cover member provided in the optical module cover component described above is placed on the mounting surface provided in the optical module holding component described above, the cutout structure formed on a part of the periphery of the cover member and the claw-shaped structure arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface engage with each other, thereby restraining the optical module cover member in a vertical direction relative to the mounting surface of the optical module holding component, and the periphery of the cover member (where the cutout structure is not formed) and the protrusion structure arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface come into contact with each other, thereby restraining the optical module cover member in a parallel direction relative to the mounting surface of the optical module holding component.

[0021] According to this configuration, the optical module cover component can be restrained relative to the optical module holding component using a cutout structure formed in the cover member that covers the optical module and a claw-shaped structure and protrusion structure arranged on the optical module holding component.

[0022] The present disclosure also relates to an optical module assembly component, characterized in that when the cover member provided in the optical module cover component described above is placed on the mounting surface provided in the optical module holding component described above, the cutout structure formed on a part of the periphery of the cover member and the claw-shaped structure arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface engage with each other, thereby restraining the optical module cover component in a vertical direction relative to the mounting surface of the optical module holding component, and the concave structure formed near the periphery of the cover member and the protrusion structure arranged near the periphery of the mounting surface engage with each other, thereby restraining the optical module cover component in a parallel direction relative to the mounting surface of the optical module holding component.

[0023] According to this configuration, the optical module cover component can be restrained relative to the optical module holding component by using the cutout structure and recessed structure formed in the cover member that covers the optical module, and the claw-shaped structure and protrusion structure arranged on the optical module holding component.

[0024] The above-disclosed inventions can be combined as much as possible.

[0025] In this way, the present disclosure makes it possible to easily assemble the optical module and the optical module holding component without deforming the optical module, and to easily detach the optical module holding component from the optical module assembly component and the separate printed circuit board without damaging the optical module and the separate printed circuit board.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a cover member of an optical module of the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of an optical module cover part of the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of an optical module holding part of the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of an optical module assembly of the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a method of manufacturing and removing an optical module assembly of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view showing the mating state of the gradient and reverse gradient structures of the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a method of manufacturing an optical module assembly of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing a method of removing an optical module assembly of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of a cover member of an optical module of the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of an optical module holding part of the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the manufacturing and removing method of an optical module assembly of the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing a method of manufacturing an optical module assembly of the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing a method of removing an optical module assembly of the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the configuration of a cover member of an optical module of the third embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the configuration of an optical module holding part of the third embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a method of manufacturing and removing an optical module assembly of the third embodiment.

[0027]

[0023] The following embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below are examples of implementation of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0028] (Configuration of optical module cover component and holding component of first embodiment) The configuration of the cover component of the optical module of the first embodiment is shown in FIG. 1. The configuration of the optical module cover component of the first embodiment is shown in FIG. 2. The optical module cover component M1 comprises an optical module P1, a cover component C1, and an optical fiber F1. A printed circuit board having a BGA surface or the like is assembled to the optical module P1, and the optical fiber F1 is connected to the optical module P1. The cover component C1 covers the side of the optical module P1 opposite to the printed circuit board having the BGA surface or the like. The cover component C1 and the optical module P1 may be integrated or separate.

[0029] The cover member C1 is made of a resin or metal material, and has a mounting surface C11 and an optical fiber connection portion C17. The mounting surface C11 covers the side of the optical module P1 opposite the printed circuit board. The two notch structures C12 are formed on one side of the cover member C1, on the same side as the optical module P1, and have a sloped structure. The notch structures C13 and C14 are formed on two corners of the cover member C1, on the same side as the optical module P1, and have a chamfered structure. The thickness of the periphery of the cover member C1 is thinner at the portion of the periphery where the notch structures C12, C13, and C14 are formed than at the remaining portion of the periphery where the notch structures C12, C13, and C14 are not formed.

[0030] The two recessed structures C15 are formed on the side of the cover member C1 opposite the optical module P1 and near the periphery of the cover member C1 except for the area around the center of the cover member C1, and have a substantially hemispherical shape. The relief structure C16 is formed on one side of the cover member C1 and across the entire thickness of the periphery of the cover member C1, and has a notched structure. The optical fiber connection portion C17 is formed on one side of the cover member C1 and has a structure for connecting the optical fiber F1.

[0031] As will be described later, the optical module cover part M1 and the optical module holding part H1 can be assembled by linear movement using the notch structures C12, C13, C14 and the recessed structure C15 formed in the cover member C1 that covers the optical module P1, which correspond to the claw structures H12, H13, H14 and the protrusion structures H15, H16 arranged on the optical module holding part H1, and the optical module cover part M1 and the optical module holding part H1 can be removed by linear movement from the optical module assembly part A1, thereby eliminating the need for adhesives or screw fastening.

[0032] The configuration of the optical module holding part of the first embodiment is shown in Fig. 3. The configuration of the optical module assembly part of the first embodiment is shown in Fig. 4. The optical module assembly part A1 includes an optical module cover part M1, an optical module holding part H1, and an optical fiber fall-off prevention part D1. The optical module holding part H1 holds the optical module cover part M1. The optical fiber fall-off prevention part D1 prevents the optical fiber F1 from falling off from the optical module holding part H1.

[0033] The optical module holder H1 is made of a resin or metal material and includes a mounting surface H11, claw structures H12, H13, and H14, protrusion structures H15 and H16, a wall structure H18, and a deformation mechanism H19, forming a slit structure H17. The mounting surface H11 is used to mount the optical module cover M1 on the side opposite the printed circuit board. The two claw structures H12 are located on one side of the mounting surface H11, extend inward from the mounting surface H11, and have a reverse slope. The claw structures H13 and H14 are located at two corners of the mounting surface H11, extend inward from the mounting surface H11, and form rib structures for fitting the optical module cover M1.

[0034] Two protrusion structures H15 are arranged on one side of the mounting surface H11, dividing the mounting surface H11 into an interior and an exterior, and have an approximately quarter-sphere structure. Two protrusion structures H16 are arranged on one side of the mounting surface H11, dividing the mounting surface H11 into an interior and an exterior, and have a guide rib structure for the optical module cover part M1. An optical fiber fixing portion (not shown) is formed on the exterior of the mounting surface H11 and has a structure for fixing the optical fiber F1. Two slit structures H17 are arranged on two sides of the mounting surface H11 and enable deformation of the mounting surface H11. The wall-like structure H18 is erected on the side of the mounting surface H11 opposite the optical module P1 and approximately perpendicular to the mounting surface H11, and has an approximately elliptical cylindrical structure. The optical fiber F1 is wound around the outer periphery of the wall-like structure H18. The deformation mechanism H19 is two opposing surfaces of the wall-like structure H18 and enables deformation of the mounting surface H11.

[0035] As will be described later, the optical module cover part M1 and the optical module holding part H1 can be assembled by linear movement using the claw-like structures H12, H13, H14 and the protrusion structures H15, H16 arranged on the optical module holding part H1, which correspond to the notch structures C12, C13, C14 and the recessed structure C15 formed on the cover member C1 that covers the optical module P1, and the optical module cover part M1 and the optical module holding part H1 can be removed by linear movement from the optical module assembly part A1, thereby eliminating the need for adhesives or screw fastening.

[0036] That is, before packaging and transportation to the customer, as shown in Fig. 4, an optical module cover part M1 (a printed circuit board having a BGA surface or the like is attached to the optical module P1) and an optical module holding part H1 are assembled without using adhesives, screws, or the like, and the optical fiber F1 is wound around the optical module holding part H1 to manufacture an optical module assembly part A1. Here, instead of manually winding the optical fiber F1 along the inner periphery of the wall-like structure H18, the optical fiber F1 can be automatically wound around a bobbin on the outer periphery of the wall-like structure H18.

[0037] 4, the optical module assembly A1 is placed on a mounter, a separate printed circuit board having a BGA joint or the like (joined to the printed circuit board having a BGA surface or the like of the optical module P1) is mounted on the optical module assembly A1, the optical module assembly A1 and the separate printed circuit board are heat treated in a reflow furnace, and the separate printed circuit board is mounted by soldering to the optical module assembly A1. Furthermore, during the secondary mounting at the customer, the optical fiber F1 is unwound, and the optical module holding part H1 is removed from the optical module assembly A1 and the separate printed circuit board, as shown in FIG.

[0038] (Method of Manufacturing and Removing Optical Module Assembly of First Embodiment) A method of manufacturing an optical module assembly of the first embodiment is shown in Fig. 5. An optical module cover part M1 is attached to an optical module holding part H1 to manufacture an optical module assembly A1.

[0039] First, the cover member C1 of the optical module cover part M1 is placed on the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1. Here, the notch structures C12, C13, and C14 of the cover member C1 and the claw-like structures H12, H13, and H14 of the optical module holding part H1 are set so as not to fit together. Then, the recessed structure C15 of the cover member C1 and the protruding structure H15 of the optical module holding part H1 are set so as to fit together. Furthermore, the claw-like structure H14 of the optical module holding part H1 is set so as to be able to escape into the relief structure C16 of the cover member C1.

[0040] Next, the optical module cover part M1 is moved linearly within the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1. The notch structures C12, C13, and C14 of the cover member C1 are fitted to the claw structures H12, H13, and H14 of the optical module holding part H1. Here, as shown in FIG. 6 , the notch structure C12 (having a gradient structure) of the cover member C1 is fitted to the claw structure H12 (having a reverse gradient structure) of the optical module holding part H1. Furthermore, after the protrusion structure H15 of the optical module holding part H1 moves to the opposite side of the cover member C1 due to pressure from the recessed structure C15 of the cover member C1, it does not fit to the recessed structure C15 of the cover member C1, but rather comes into contact with the periphery of the cover member C1 (where the notch structures C12, C13, and C14 are not formed).

[0041] A conceptual diagram of the manufacturing method for the optical module assembly part of the first embodiment is shown in Figure 7. The protrusion structure H15 of the optical module holding part H1 has a quarter-sphere structure, and the recessed structure C15 of the cover member C1 has a hemispherical structure. Then, as the optical module cover part M1 moves linearly within the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1, the protrusion structure H15 of the optical module holding part H1 moves toward the opposite side of the cover member C1 due to pressure from the recessed structure C15 of the cover member C1. This allows further linear movement of the optical module cover part M1.

[0042] Here, in order for the protrusion structure H15 of the optical module holding part H1 to move to the opposite side of the cover member C1, it is desirable that the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1 be appropriately deformed, and it is desirable that the slit structure H17 of the optical module holding part H1 have an appropriate length. Note that the protrusion structure H15 of the optical module holding part H1 may have a triangular cross-sectional structure or the like, and the recessed structure C15 of the cover member C1 may also have a triangular cross-sectional structure or the like.

[0043] As a result, the cover member C1 of the optical module cover part M1 is placed on the placement surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1, and an optical module assembly part A1 is manufactured.

[0044] Here, the notch structures C12, C13, and C14 formed on a part of the periphery of the cover member C1 and the claw-like structures H12, H13, and H14 arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface H11 fit together, thereby restraining the optical module cover part M1 in a direction perpendicular to the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1. The periphery of the cover member C1 (where the notch structures C12, C13, and C14 are not formed) comes into contact with the protrusion structures H15 and H16 arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface H11, thereby restraining the optical module cover part M1 in a direction parallel to the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1.

[0045] In this way, before manufacturing the optical module assembly A1, the optical module cover part M1 can be placed on the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1. During manufacturing of the optical module assembly A1, the optical module cover part M1 can be disengaged from the fitted state between the protrusion structure H15 and the recessed structure C15 by linearly moving the optical module cover part M1 relative to the optical module holding part H1. After manufacturing of the optical module assembly A1, the optical module cover part M1 can be constrained in the vertical and parallel directions relative to the optical module holding part H1.

[0046] In other words, the optical module cover part M1 can be restrained in the vertical and parallel directions relative to the optical module holding part H1 by using the cutout structures C12, C13, and C14 formed in the cover member C1 that covers the optical module P1, and the claw-shaped structures H12, H13, and H14 and protrusion structures H15 and H16 arranged on the optical module holding part H1.

[0047] A method for removing the optical module assembly parts of the first embodiment is shown in Fig. 5. The optical module cover part M1 is removed from the optical module holding part H1, and the optical module assembly part A1 is disassembled.

[0048] First, the optical module cover part M1 is moved linearly within the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1, and the protrusion structure H15 of the optical module holding part H1 is moved to the opposite side of the cover member C1 by the deformation mechanism H19 of the optical module holding part H1.

[0049] 8 shows a conceptual diagram of the method for removing the optical module assembly parts of the first embodiment. The protrusion structure H15 of the optical module holding part H1 moves to the opposite side of the cover member C1 through the deformation of the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1 by intentionally pinching the deformation mechanism H19 of the optical module holding part H1. This allows the optical module cover part M1 to move linearly.

[0050] Here, in order for the protrusion structure H15 of the optical module holding part H1 to move to the opposite side of the cover member C1, it is desirable that the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1 be moderately deformed, it is desirable that the slit structure H17 of the optical module holding part H1 have a moderate length, and it is desirable that the deformation mechanism H19 of the optical module holding part H1 be easy to grip.

[0051] Next, the notch structures C12, C13, and C14 of the cover member C1 are made to not fit with the claw structures H12, H13, and H14 of the optical module holding part H1. The recessed structure C15 of the cover member C1 is also made to not fit with the protruding structure H15 of the optical module holding part H1. In this state, the optical module cover part M1 is removed from the optical module holding part H1, and the optical module assembly part A1 is disassembled.

[0052] In this way, during disassembly of the optical module assembly part A1, as the optical module cover part M1 moves linearly relative to the optical module holding part H1, the deformation mechanism H19 of the mounting surface H11 of the optical module holding part H1 allows the protrusion structure H15 to escape from the periphery of the cover member C1 (where the cutout structures C12, C13, and C14 are not formed), and the optical module cover part M1 can be removed from the optical module holding part H1.

[0053] (Configuration of optical module cover component and holding component of second embodiment) The configuration of the cover component of the optical module of the second embodiment is shown in Figure 9. The configuration of the optical module cover component of the second embodiment is almost the same as that of Figure 2. The optical module cover component M2 comprises an optical module, a cover component C2, and an optical fiber F2. The optical module is assembled with a printed circuit board having a BGA surface or the like, and the optical fiber F2 is connected to it. The cover component C2 covers the side of the optical module opposite the printed circuit board having the BGA surface or the like. Note that the cover component C2 and the optical module may be integrated or separate.

[0054] The cover member C2 is made of resin or metal, and has a mounting surface C21 and an optical fiber connection portion C28 disposed thereon. The mounting surface C21 covers the side of the optical module opposite the printed circuit board. The four notch structures C22, C23, C24, and C25 are formed at the four corners of the cover member C2 on the same side as the optical module, and have chamfered edges. The thickness of the periphery of the cover member C2 is thinner at the portions of the periphery where the notch structures C22, C23, C24, and C25 are formed than at the remaining portions of the periphery where the notch structures C22, C23, C24, and C25 are not formed.

[0055] The two recessed structures C26 are formed on the side of the cover member C2 opposite the optical module and near the periphery of the cover member C2 excluding the area around the center, and have a substantially hemispherical shape. The two recessed structures C27 are formed on the side of the cover member C2 opposite the optical module and near the periphery of the cover member C2 excluding the area around the center, and are formed adjacent to each recessed structure C26 and have a substantially hemispherical shape. The optical fiber connection portion C28 is formed on one side of the cover member C2 and has a structure for connecting the optical fiber F2.

[0056] As will be described later, the optical module cover part M2 and the optical module holding part H2 can be assembled by rotational movement using the notch structures C22, C23, C24, C25 and recessed structures C26, C27 formed in the cover member C2 that covers the optical module, which correspond to the claw structures H22, H23, H24, H25 and protrusion structure H26 arranged on the optical module holding part H2, and the optical module cover part M2 and the optical module holding part H2 can be detached by rotational movement from the optical module assembly part A2. This eliminates the need for adhesives or screw fastening.

[0057] The configuration of the optical module holding part of the second embodiment is shown in Figure 10. The configuration of the optical module assembly part of the second embodiment is almost the same as that of Figure 4. The optical module assembly part A2 includes an optical module cover part M2, an optical module holding part H2, and an optical fiber fall-off prevention part. The optical module holding part H2 holds the optical module cover part M2. The optical fiber fall-off prevention part prevents the optical fiber F2 from falling off from the optical module holding part H2.

[0058] The optical module holder H2 is a resin or metal member, and includes a mounting surface H21, claw structures H22, H23, H24, and H25, protrusion structures H26 and H27, a wall structure, and a deformation mechanism (corresponding to H18 and H19), forming a slit structure H28. The mounting surface H21 is used to mount the optical module cover M2 on the side opposite the printed circuit board. The four claw structures H22, H23, H24, and H25 are located at the four corners of the mounting surface H21 and extend inward from the mounting surface H21, providing rib structures for fitting the optical module cover M2.

[0059] The two protrusion structures H26 are arranged near the periphery of the mounting surface H21, excluding the area around the center of the mounting surface H21, and have an approximately quarter-sphere structure. The three protrusion structures H27 are arranged near the periphery of the mounting surface H21, excluding the area around the center of the mounting surface H21, and have a guide rib structure when the optical module cover part M2 is mounted. The optical fiber fixing portion (not shown) is formed on the outside of the mounting surface H21 and has a structure for fixing the optical fiber F2. The two slit structures H28 are arranged on two sides of the mounting surface H21 and enable deformation of the mounting surface H21. The wall-like structure is installed on the side of the mounting surface H21 opposite the optical module and approximately perpendicular to the mounting surface H21, and has an approximately elliptical cylindrical structure. The optical fiber F2 is wound around the outer periphery of the wall-like structure. The deformation mechanism is two opposing surfaces of the wall-like structure and enables deformation of the mounting surface H21.

[0060] As will be described later, the optical module cover part M2 and the optical module holding part H2 can be assembled by rotational movement using the claw-like structures H22, H23, H24, H25 and the protrusion structure H26 arranged on the optical module holding part H2, which correspond to the cutout structures C22, C23, C24, C25 and the recessed structures C26, C27 formed on the cover member C2 that covers the optical module, and the optical module cover part M2 and the optical module holding part H2 can be detached by rotational movement from the optical module assembly part A2. This eliminates the need for adhesives or screw fastening.

[0061] That is, before packaging and transportation to the customer, as shown in Fig. 4, an optical module cover part M2 (which assembles a printed circuit board having a BGA surface or the like to the optical module) and an optical module holding part H2 are assembled without using adhesives, screws, or the like, and the optical fiber F2 is wound around the optical module holding part H2 to manufacture an optical module assembly part A2. Here, the optical fiber F2 is not manually wound around the inner periphery of the wall-like structure, but can be automatically wound around a bobbin on the outer periphery of the wall-like structure.

[0062] 4, the optical module assembly A2 is placed on a mounter, a separate printed circuit board having a BGA joint or the like (joined to the printed circuit board having a BGA surface or the like of the optical module) is mounted on the optical module assembly A2, the optical module assembly A2 and the separate printed circuit board are heat treated in a reflow furnace, and the separate printed circuit board is mounted by soldering to the optical module assembly A2. Furthermore, during the secondary mounting at the customer, the optical fiber F2 is unwound, and the optical module holding part H2 is removed from the optical module assembly A2 and the separate printed circuit board, as shown in FIG.

[0063] (Method of Manufacturing and Removing Optical Module Assembly Parts of the Second Embodiment) A method of manufacturing an optical module assembly part of the second embodiment is shown in Fig. 11. An optical module cover part M2 is attached to an optical module holding part H2 to manufacture an optical module assembly part A2.

[0064] First, the cover member C2 of the optical module cover part M2 is placed on the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2. Here, the notch structures C22, C23, C24, and C25 of the cover member C2 are not fitted to the claw structures H22, H23, H24, and H25 of the optical module holding part H2. Then, the recessed structure C26 of the cover member C2 is fitted to the protruding structure H26 of the optical module holding part H2. Furthermore, the protruding structure H27 of the optical module holding part H1 is in contact with the periphery of the cover member C2 (two sides of the cover member C2 and the periphery of the optical fiber connection part C28).

[0065] Next, the optical module cover part M2 is rotated within the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2. The notch structures C22, C23, C24, and C25 of the cover member C2 are fitted to the claw structures H22, H23, H24, and H25 of the optical module holding part H2. Furthermore, the protrusion structure H26 of the optical module holding part H2 is pressed by the recessed structure C26 of the cover member C2 to move to the opposite side from the cover member C2, and then fitted to the separate recessed structure C27 of the cover member C2.

[0066] A conceptual diagram of the manufacturing method for the optical module assembly part of the second embodiment is shown in Figure 12. The protrusion structure H26 of the optical module holding part H2 has a quarter-sphere structure, and the recessed structure C26 of the cover member C2 has a hemispherical structure. As the optical module cover part M2 rotates within the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2, the protrusion structure H26 of the optical module holding part H2 moves toward the opposite side of the cover member C2 due to pressure from the recessed structure C26 of the cover member C2. This allows the optical module cover part M2 to move further linearly.

[0067] Here, in order for the protrusion structure H26 of the optical module holding part H2 to move to the opposite side from the cover member C2, it is desirable that the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2 be appropriately deformed and that the slit structure H28 of the optical module holding part H2 have an appropriate length. Note that the protrusion structure H26 of the optical module holding part H2 may have a triangular cross-sectional structure or the like, and the recessed structures C26, C27 of the cover member C2 may also have a triangular cross-sectional structure or the like.

[0068] As a result, the cover member C2 of the optical module cover part M2 is placed on the placement surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2, and an optical module assembly part A2 is manufactured.

[0069] Here, the notch structures C22, C23, C24, and C25 formed on a part of the periphery of the cover member C2 and the claw-like structures H22, H23, H24, and H25 arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface H21 fit together, thereby restraining the optical module cover part M2 in a direction perpendicular to the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2. Furthermore, the separate recessed structure C27 formed near the periphery of the cover member C2 and the protruding structure H26 arranged near the periphery of the mounting surface H21 fit together, thereby restraining the optical module cover part M2 in a direction parallel to the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2.

[0070] In this way, before the optical module assembly A2 is manufactured, the optical module cover part M2 can be placed on the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2. During the manufacturing of the optical module assembly A2, the optical module cover part M2 can be rotated relative to the optical module holding part H2 to move into a fitted state between the protrusion structure H26 and the separate recessed structure C27. After the optical module assembly A2 is manufactured, the optical module cover part M2 can be constrained in the vertical and parallel directions relative to the optical module holding part H2.

[0071] In other words, the optical module cover part M2 can be restrained in the vertical and parallel directions relative to the optical module holding part H2 by using the cutout structures C22, C23, C24, C25 and separate recessed structure C27 formed in the cover member C2 that covers the optical module, and the claw-shaped structures H22, H23, H24, H25 and protrusion structure H26 arranged on the optical module holding part H2.

[0072] A method for removing the optical module assembly parts of the second embodiment is shown in Fig. 11. The optical module cover part M2 is removed from the optical module holding part H2, and the optical module assembly part A2 is disassembled.

[0073] First, the optical module cover part M2 is rotated within the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2, and the protrusion structure H26 of the optical module holding part H2 is moved to the opposite side from the cover member C2 by the deformation mechanism of the optical module holding part H2.

[0074] A conceptual diagram of the method for removing the optical module assembly parts of the second embodiment is shown in Figure 13. The protrusion structure H26 of the optical module holding part H2 moves to the opposite side of the cover member C2 via the deformation of the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2 by intentionally pinching the deformation mechanism of the optical module holding part H2. This allows the optical module cover part M2 to rotate.

[0075] Here, in order for the protrusion structure H26 of the optical module holding part H2 to move to the opposite side of the cover member C2, it is desirable that the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2 be moderately deformed, it is desirable that the slit structure H28 of the optical module holding part H2 have a moderate length, and it is desirable that the deformation mechanism of the optical module holding part H2 be easy to grip.

[0076] Next, the notch structures C22, C23, C24, and C25 of the cover member C2 are made to not fit with the claw structures H22, H23, H24, and H25 of the optical module holding part H2. The recessed structures C26 and C27 of the cover member C2 are also made to not fit with the protrusion structure H26 of the optical module holding part H2. In this state, the optical module cover part M2 is removed from the optical module holding part H2, and the optical module assembly part A2 is disassembled.

[0077] In this way, during disassembly of the optical module assembly part A2, as the optical module cover part M2 rotates relative to the optical module holding part H2, the deformation mechanism of the mounting surface H21 of the optical module holding part H2 allows the protrusion structure H26 to be released from the engagement with the separate concave structure C27 (together with the first concave structure C26), and the optical module cover part M2 can be removed from the optical module holding part H2.

[0078] (Configuration of optical module cover component and holding component of third embodiment) The configuration of the cover member of the optical module of the third embodiment is shown in Fig. 14. The configuration of the optical module holding component of the third embodiment is shown in Fig. 15. The method of manufacturing and removing the optical module assembly component of the third embodiment is shown in Fig. 16. Below, the commonalities and differences between the first and third embodiments will be explained.

[0079] In the third embodiment, the cover member C3 is formed with cutout structures C32, C33, and C34 having a chamfered structure as in the first embodiment, but unlike the first embodiment, the cover member C3 is not formed with a cutout structure having a sloped structure (corresponding to C12). The mounting surface C31, the cutout structures C32, C33, and C34, the recessed structure C35, the relief structure C36, and the optical fiber connection portion C37 in the third embodiment correspond to the mounting surface C11, the cutout structures C13 and C14, the recessed structure C15, the relief structure C16, and the optical fiber connection portion C17 in the first embodiment, respectively.

[0080] In the third embodiment, the optical module holding part H3 is formed with claw-like structures H32, H33, and H34 having a fitting rib structure as in the first embodiment, but is not formed with a claw-like structure (corresponding to H12) having a reverse gradient structure, unlike the first embodiment. The mounting surface H31, claw-like structures H32, H33, and H34, protrusion structures H35 and H36, optical fiber fixing part (not shown), slit structure H37, wall structure, and deformation mechanism in the third embodiment correspond to the mounting surface H11, claw-like structures H13 and H14, protrusion structures H15 and H16, optical fiber fixing part (not shown), slit structure H17, wall structure H18, and deformation mechanism H19 in the first embodiment, respectively.

[0081] The optical module cover part M3, the optical module holding part H3, the optical module assembly part A3, and the optical fiber F3 in the third embodiment correspond to the optical module cover part M1, the optical module holding part H1, the optical module assembly part A1, and the optical fiber F1 in the first embodiment, respectively. The method for manufacturing and removing the optical module assembly part A3 in the third embodiment is substantially the same as the method for manufacturing and removing the optical module assembly part A1 in the first embodiment.

[0082] (Supplementary Note 1) When manufacturing an optical module assembly by attaching the optical module cover part according to claim 2 to the optical module holding part according to claim 3, the steps include: when placing the cover member of the optical module cover part on the mounting surface of the optical module holding part, ensuring that the notch structure of the cover member and the claw structure of the optical module holding part do not fit together, and ensuring that the concave structure of the cover member and the protrusion structure of the optical module holding part fit together; and, by linearly moving the optical module cover part within the mounting surface of the optical module holding part, ensuring that the notch structure of the cover member and the claw structure of the optical module holding part fit together, and after the protrusion structure of the optical module holding part moves to the opposite side to the cover member due to pressure from the concave structure of the cover member, making contact with the periphery of the cover member (where the notch structure is not formed) rather than fitting together with the concave structure of the cover member; 3. A method for manufacturing an optical module assembly, comprising the steps of:

[0083] According to this configuration, before the optical module assembly is manufactured, the optical module cover component can be placed on the mounting surface of the optical module holding component. During the manufacturing of the optical module assembly, the optical module cover component can be disengaged from the fitted state between the protrusion structure and the recessed structure by linearly moving the optical module cover component relative to the optical module holding component. After the optical module assembly is manufactured, the optical module cover component can be restrained relative to the optical module holding component.

[0084] (Appendix 2) A method for manufacturing an optical module assembly component, comprising the steps of: (a) attaching the optical module cover component according to claim 2 to the optical module holding component according to claim 4 to manufacture an optical module assembly component; (b) placing the cover member of the optical module cover component on the mounting surface of the optical module holding component so that the notch structure of the cover member and the claw-shaped structure of the optical module holding component do not fit together, and so that the concave structure of the cover member and the protrusion structure of the optical module holding component fit together; and (c) rotating the optical module cover component within the mounting surface of the optical module holding component so that the notch structure of the cover member and the claw-shaped structure of the optical module holding component fit together, and so that the protrusion structure of the optical module holding component moves to the opposite side of the cover member due to pressure from the concave structure of the cover member and then fits together with the separate concave structure of the cover member.

[0085] According to this configuration, before the optical module assembly is manufactured, the optical module cover component can be placed on the mounting surface of the optical module holding component. During the manufacturing of the optical module assembly, the optical module cover component can be rotated relative to the optical module holding component to move into a fitted state between the protrusion structure and the separate recessed structure. After the optical module assembly is manufactured, the optical module cover component can be restrained relative to the optical module holding component.

[0086] (Appendix 3) A method for removing an optical module assembly component, comprising the steps of: (a) moving the optical module cover component described in claim 2 linearly within the mounting surface of the optical module holding component and moving the protrusion structure of the optical module holding component to the opposite side to the cover member by a deformation mechanism of the optical module holding component; and (b) removing the optical module cover component from the optical module holding component and disassembling the optical module assembly component in a state in which the notch structure of the cover member and the claw-shaped structure of the optical module holding component are not fitted together and the concave structure of the cover member and the protrusion structure of the optical module holding component are not fitted together.

[0087] According to this configuration, during disassembly of the optical module assembly parts, the optical module cover part moves linearly relative to the optical module holding part, and the deformation mechanism of the mounting surface of the optical module holding part allows the protrusion structure to escape from contact with the periphery of the cover member, allowing the optical module cover part to be removed from the optical module holding part.

[0088] (Appendix 4) A method for removing an optical module assembly component, comprising the steps of: rotating and moving the optical module cover component described in claim 2 from the optical module holding component described in claim 4 and disassembling the optical module assembly component, within the mounting surface of the optical module holding component, and moving the protrusion structure of the optical module holding component to the opposite side to the cover member by a deformation mechanism of the optical module holding component; and removing the optical module cover component from the optical module holding component and disassembling the optical module assembly component in a state where the notch structure of the cover member and the claw-shaped structure of the optical module holding component do not fit together and the concave structure of the cover member and the protrusion structure of the optical module holding component do not fit together.

[0089] According to this configuration, during disassembly of the optical module assembly parts, the optical module cover part rotates relative to the optical module holding part, and the deformation mechanism of the mounting surface of the optical module holding part allows the protrusion structure and the separate recessed structure to be released from their fitted state, allowing the optical module cover part to be removed from the optical module holding part.

[0090] The optical module cover component, optical module holding component, optical module assembly component, method of manufacturing an optical module assembly component, and method of removing an optical module assembly component disclosed herein enable the optical module and the optical module holding component to be easily assembled before packaging and transportation to a customer, thereby preventing deformation of the optical module. Furthermore, during secondary mounting at the customer's location, the optical module holding component can be easily removed from the optical module assembly component and the separate printed circuit board, preventing damage to the optical module and the separate printed circuit board.

[0091] C1, C2, C3: Cover members C11, C21, C31: Mounting surface C12, C13, C14, C22, C23, C24, C25, C32, C33, C34: Notch structure C15, C26, C27, C35: Concave structure C16, C36: Relief structure C17, C28, C37: Optical fiber connection part M1, M2, M3: Optical module cover parts P1: Optical module F1, F2, F3: Optical fiber H1, H2, H3: Optical module holding parts H11, H21, H31: Mounting surface H12, H13, H14, H22, H23, H24, H25, H32, H33, H34: Claw-shaped structure H15, H16, H26, H27, H35, H36: Projection structure H17, H28, H37: Slit structure H18: Wall-shaped structure H19: Deformation mechanism A1, A2, A3: Optical module assembly parts D1: Optical fiber fall-off prevention parts

Claims

1. An optical module cover component comprising: an optical module to which a printed circuit board is assembled and an optical fiber is connected; and a cover member that covers the side of the optical module opposite the printed circuit board, wherein a cutout structure is formed on a portion of the periphery of the cover member on the same side as the optical module, and the thickness of the periphery of the cover member where the cutout structure is formed is thinner than the remaining periphery of the cover member where the cutout structure is not formed.

2. The optical module cover component according to claim 1, characterized in that a concave structure is formed on the opposite side of the cover member from the optical module and in the vicinity of the periphery of the cover member except for the area around the center of the cover member.

3. An optical module holding component comprising: a mounting surface on which an optical module to which an optical fiber is connected is placed; claw-like structures arranged on the periphery of said mounting surface and extending inward of said mounting surface; and protrusion structures arranged on the periphery of said mounting surface to separate the inside and outside of said mounting surface.

4. An optical module holding component comprising: a mounting surface on which an optical module to which an optical fiber is connected is placed; claw-like structures arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface and extending inward of the mounting surface; and protrusion structures arranged near the periphery of the mounting surface except for the periphery of the center of the mounting surface.

5. An optical module holding component according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that a wall-like structure is erected on the opposite side of the mounting surface from the optical module and approximately perpendicular to the mounting surface, and the optical fiber is wound around the outer periphery of the wall-like structure.

6. An optical module assembly component characterized in that, when the cover member provided in the optical module cover component described in claim 1 is placed on the mounting surface provided in the optical module holding component described in claim 3, the cutout structure formed on a part of the periphery of the cover member and the claw-like structure arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface fit together, thereby restraining the optical module cover component in a vertical direction relative to the mounting surface of the optical module holding component, and the periphery of the cover member (where the cutout structure is not formed) and the protrusion structure arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface come into contact with each other, thereby restraining the optical module cover component in a parallel direction relative to the mounting surface of the optical module holding component.

7. An optical module assembly component characterized in that, when the cover member provided in the optical module cover component described in claim 2 is placed on the mounting surface provided in the optical module holding component described in claim 4, the cutout structure formed on a part of the periphery of the cover member and the claw-like structure arranged on the periphery of the mounting surface fit together, thereby restraining the optical module cover component in a vertical direction relative to the mounting surface of the optical module holding component, and the concave structure formed near the periphery of the cover member and the protrusion structure arranged near the periphery of the mounting surface fit together, thereby restraining the optical module cover component in a parallel direction relative to the mounting surface of the optical module holding component.

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