Fiber Module with Dielectric Filter and Graded Index Fibers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber modules using dielectric multilayer film filters face challenges in achieving small size and low cost while maintaining rectangular light distribution characteristics with steep rise and fall, and suffer from optical loss and deteriorated optical characteristics due to diffused light incidence.
Innovation Solution
A fiber module design featuring graded index fibers, a dielectric multilayer film filter inserted between the fibers, and a ferrule with a V-shaped groove, where the filter is inclined and optically polished to reduce optical loss and enhance coupling efficiency, allowing for precise alignment and efficient light transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a dielectric multilayer film filter is used with collimated light in an SMF optical system, then rectangular light distribution characteristics with steep rise and fall are achieved, but precise alignment work is required and the system becomes expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a beam shaping element as an intermediary component between the optical fiber and the dielectric multilayer film filter. This element transforms the divergent light from the fiber into collimated light that matches the filter's requirements, eliminating the need for precise alignment work while maintaining rectangular light distribution characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical alignment system (collimator lenses requiring precise positioning) with an integrated beam shaping element that achieves the same optical function through its structural design, thereby eliminating complex alignment procedures
2Manufacturing precision
If collimator lenses are used to convert light to collimated light, then light distribution characteristics are maintained, but the system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the beam shaping function and the light distribution control function into a single integrated element that works in conjunction with the dielectric multilayer film filter, eliminating the need for separate collimator lenses and reducing overall system size
Solution Approach 2:
The beam shaping element is designed to be nested within the existing ferrule structure, utilizing the available space efficiently without requiring additional external components, thereby maintaining a compact system footprint
3Ease of manufacture
If diffused light is incident on the dielectric multilayer film filter, then alignment work is eliminated and manufacturing is inexpensive, but optical characteristics deteriorate and optical loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary light conditioning by incorporating a beam shaping element that pre-collimates the light before it reaches the dielectric multilayer film filter, ensuring optimal optical characteristics are achieved before the light interacts with the filter, thereby maintaining high reliability without complex alignment procedures
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 solution enables the manufacture of a compact, cost-effective fiber module with improved light distribution characteristics and reduced optical loss, achieving efficient light coupling and stable optical performance.
Implementation Method 1
input-side graded index fiber and output-side graded index fiber
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber module (1B) according to the present disclosure includes an input-side optical fiber (11), an output-side optical fiber (12), a ferrule (20) in which the input-side optical fiber and the output-side optical fiber are insertable in both ends and a groove (32) is formed in a direction orthogonal to a longitudinal direction (D1) in the middle of the longitudinal direction, a dielectric multilayer film filter (30) inserted in the groove, and an input-side GI fiber (15) and an output-side GI fiber (16) joined by fusion to respective terminal portions of the input-side optical fiber and the output-side optical fiber. The dielectric multilayer film filter is interposed between an end surface (15f) of the input-side GI fiber and an end surface (16f) of the output-side GI fiber in the longitudinal direction.