GRIN Lens Holder Alignment for Optical Fiber Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-fiber ferrules require high precision polishing, which is costly and time-consuming, and GRIN lenses offer a simpler alternative for optical connections but need precise alignment to minimize coupling loss.
Innovation Solution
The use of GRIN lens holders with groove alignment features to securely position and align GRIN lenses behind a mating surface, allowing for optical connections with reduced coupling loss and simplified cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high precision polishing is used to create planar fiber arrays, then coupling loss is reduced, but manufacturing cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, time-consuming precision polishing with a disposable ferrule design that uses pre-polished GRIN lenses. The ferrules are designed to be replaced rather than re-polished, eliminating the need for costly precision polishing operations while maintaining optical performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical precision polishing process with an optical solution using GRIN lenses. Instead of mechanically polishing fiber end faces to achieve planarity, the system uses the optical properties of GRIN lenses to achieve proper light coupling, eliminating the need for high-precision mechanical polishing.
2Device complexity
If GRIN lenses are used instead of precision polishing, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but alignment precision must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pre-aligned GRIN lenses into the ferrule structure during manufacturing. The lenses are pre-positioned and secured within the ferrule body, establishing their alignment before the ferrule is installed in the connector assembly. This preliminary alignment action eliminates the need for complex field alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferrule body serves as an intermediary structure that holds and positions the GRIN lenses. The lens holder within the ferrule provides a mechanical interface that maintains precise lens positioning, acting as a mediator between the lens alignment requirements and the connector assembly.
3Ease of operation
If flat end faces are used on GRIN lenses, then cleaning becomes easier, but coupling loss may increase without precise alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The GRIN lenses are pre-aligned within the ferrule during manufacturing, establishing precise optical alignment before the connector is deployed. This preliminary alignment ensures that the flat end faces of the lenses will maintain proper coupling even though they are easier to clean than curved surfaces.
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 GRIN lens holders provide accurate alignment and easy maintenance, reducing coupling loss and manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for complex surface curvatures and precision polishing.
Implementation Method 1
Gradient index (GRIN) lenses focus light through a precisely controlled radial variation of the lens material's index of refraction from the optical axis to the edge of the lens
Data Source
AI summary
An optical fiber segment holder includes a lens holder body comprising a mating surface having a light transmissive material. At least one optical fiber segment is disposed in the lens holder body. The at least one optical fiber segment having an end face located behind the mating surface such that light travels to or from the at least one optical fiber segment through the mating surface.