Fiber Array Vertical Coupling via Curved Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber arrays are unable to meet the higher requirements for vertical coupling with active device products, particularly in 40G and 100G optical devices, due to limitations in bending optical fibers, leading to increased optical loss and complexity in assembly.
Innovation Solution
A fiber array design featuring an L-shaped plate, U-shaped cover plate, and V-shaped slot, where the optical fiber has a curved transition and fixed section, allowing for a 97.5° to 98.5° bending angle, bonded with UV adhesive, made from quartz glass materials, facilitating vertical coupling and reducing optical loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional horizontal coupling fiber arrays are used, then assembly is simple with common grinding process, but vertical coupling requirements for 40G and 100G active devices cannot be met
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber is divided into three distinct sections: straight section, curved transition section, and curved fixed section. This segmentation allows each section to serve a specific function - the straight section for alignment, the curved transition section for gradual bending, and the curved fixed section for stable positioning at the vertical coupling interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fiber incorporates curved sections with specific bending radii (R1 for curved transition section, R2 for curved fixed section) to achieve the required 97.5°-98.5° bending angle. The curved geometry enables the fiber to transition from horizontal to vertical orientation while maintaining optical performance and reducing stress concentration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fiber bending is increased to achieve vertical coupling, then coupling with active devices is enabled, but optical loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The curved transition section with radius R1 and curved fixed section with radius R2 provide smooth, gradual bending of the optical fiber. This curved geometry distributes the bending stress evenly along the fiber path, preventing sharp bends that would cause excessive optical loss while achieving the required vertical coupling angle.
Solution Approach 2:
The bending angle is precisely controlled within the range of 97.5°-98.5°, and the fiber uses G657.B3 type with specific bending characteristics. These parameter optimizations minimize optical loss by ensuring the fiber operates within its optimal bending performance envelope while still achieving vertical coupling.
3Manufacturing precision
If more components are added to achieve vertical coupling, then coupling precision is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The L-shaped plate integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the mounting structure for the optical fiber, defines the bending geometry through its shape, and serves as the coupling interface for vertical alignment. This merging of functions reduces the total number of components while maintaining coupling precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of bending the fiber to match a complex multi-component holder, the design inverts the approach by using a simple L-shaped plate that naturally guides the fiber into the correct vertical coupling position. The structure itself enforces the precise geometry rather than requiring multiple adjustment components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design results in a compact, easy-to-assemble fiber array that reduces optical loss by minimizing components in the light path, expanding its application with various active devices and offering significant technical innovation and practical value.
Implementation Method 1
The curved fixed section of the optical fiber is bonded and fixed to the V-shaped slot and the curved end of the L-shaped plate with UV adhesive
Data Source
AI summary
The present application provides a fiber array for vertical coupling, including an optical fiber, an L-shaped plate, a U-shaped cover plate and a V-shaped slot; wherein the optical fiber includes a straight section, a curved transition section and a curved fixed section that are sequentially connected; the curved transition section of the optical fiber is arranged on an outer side surface of the L-shaped plate, the straight section of the optical fiber is fixedly arranged at a horizontal end of the L-shaped plate through the U-shaped cover plate, and the curved fixed section of the optical fiber is fixedly arranged on a curved end of the L-shaped plate through the V-shaped slot. The fiber array for vertical coupling provided by the present application can greatly reduce the optical loss in the light path.