Multicore Fiber Connector Using Planar Waveguide Laminated Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fan-in/fan-out technologies cannot collectively separate cores of multiple multicore fibers into single mode fibers, requiring multiple connectors and complicating the configuration of optical transmission systems, especially when dealing with different types of multicore fibers having varying numbers of cores.
Innovation Solution
A planar waveguide-based multicore fiber connector with a laminated structure that allows for the alignment of cores at different heights, enabling connection between multicore fibers and single mode fibers by bending cores in the horizontal direction to match the positional changes of the connected fibers, thereby simplifying the configuration and increasing mass productivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional FIFO technology is used to separate cores of multiple MCFs into SMFs, then each core can be separated individually, but multiple FIFOs are required and the configuration becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple FIFO functions into a single integrated connector. The connector includes a housing that simultaneously receives multiple MCFs and separates all their cores into SMFs in one device, eliminating the need for multiple separate FIFOs and simplifying the overall configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple MCFs with different core arrangements. It can accommodate various MCF types and separaten all their cores into SMFs through a single device, making it adaptable to different configurations without requiring separate specialized components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different types of MCFs with different number of cores are connected, then connectivity between different MCF types is achieved, but separate FIFOs are required for each MCF type
Solution Approach 1:
The connector provides universal adaptability to handle multiple MCF types with different core counts and arrangements within a single device. The housing and internal structure are designed to accommodate various MCF configurations while maintaining a unified output to SMFs, eliminating the need for type-specific FIFOs.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector segments different MCF types and their cores into a unified structure. Each MCF is received and its cores are individually separated and routed to appropriate SMFs within the same housing, allowing heterogeneous MCF types to be integrated through a single standardized interface.
3Manufacturing precision
If rotational alignment of MCFs is performed manually, then core alignment between MCFs can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates preliminary alignment features such as positioning structures, guides, and standardized mounting interfaces that pre-establish correct core alignment before the MCFs are fully connected. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for time-consuming manual rotational adjustments during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical rotational alignment with a standardized mechanical interface system. The connector housing includes built-in positioning mechanisms that automatically guide MCFs into correct alignment positions, substituting manual adjustment operations with a deterministic mechanical positioning system.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
A planar waveguide having M x N number of cores and to which M number of fibers having N number of cores are connected. In the planar waveguide, in a connecting end surface of the planar waveguide to which the fibers are connected, P number of fibers having Q number of cores are connected, M x N is equal to P x Q, the planar waveguide includes a plurality of the cores arranged in a horizontal direction at the same height position in the planar waveguide, and a laminated structure having the cores at different positions in a height direction, so as to be aligned with the cores of the fibers connected to the connecting end surface, and the positions of the M x N number of cores are constant in the height direction, and change only in the horizontal direction.