Multi-Core Fiber Optical Connecting Structure for Miniaturization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical connecting structures, such as those disclosed in JP2013-020227A, are not suitable for connecting multiple multi-core fibers, and when used, they can lead to increased size due to the need for fan-out to single core fibers, which is not efficient for miniaturization.
Innovation Solution
An optical connecting structure that includes a first multi-core fiber array and a second multi-core fiber array, with a first optical system allowing light beams from the first multi-core fibers to have different propagation directions and a second optical system condensing these beams onto the second multi-core fibers, facilitating a simplified configuration for miniaturization by correlating core arrays with fiber arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If existing optical connecting structures are used to connect multiple multi-core fibers, then connection functionality is achieved, but the system size increases due to the need for fan-out to single core fibers
Solution Approach 1:
The optical connecting structure is segmented into multiple independent optical systems, where each optical system handles the connection between one first multi-core fiber and multiple second multi-core fibers. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized independently and connected in parallel, reducing the overall system size compared to a monolithic fan-out structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar fan-out structure to a three-dimensional optical path configuration. By using optical systems with multiple lenses arranged in specific spatial configurations, light beams can be redirected and condensed in three-dimensional space, enabling compact integration of multiple fiber connections without increasing the footprint area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fan-out to single core fibers is used, then connection between multi-core fibers is achieved, but the number of components and structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each optical system is designed as a universal module that can connect one multi-core fiber to multiple multi-core fibers directly. The same optical system configuration can be replicated and adapted for different numbers of cores by simply adjusting the lens arrangement, eliminating the need for different fan-out structures for different connection scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical systems with multiple lenses as intermediary components between multi-core fibers, replacing the need for fan-out to single core fibers. These lens systems act as mediators that can directly couple light between multi-core fibers while maintaining core-to-core correspondence, reducing the number of intermediate single core fiber connections needed.
3Volume of moving object
If direct optical connection between multi-core fibers is implemented, then system miniaturization is achieved, but precise alignment and light beam control become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The optical systems are designed with pre-calculated lens positions and focal lengths that automatically compensate for alignment tolerances. The lens configurations are predetermined to create specific light beam transformation patterns that are robust against minor manufacturing variations, reducing the stringency of alignment precision requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates alignment adjustment mechanisms that allow for fine-tuning of lens positions and fiber orientations. These feedback mechanisms enable real-time correction of alignment errors during system assembly and operation, ensuring precise light beam coupling between multi-core fibers even when initial manufacturing tolerances are exceeded.
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 proposed structure enables miniaturization of the optical connecting system by allowing direct optical connection between multiple multi-core fibers, reducing size and complexity while maintaining accurate light beam propagation.
Implementation Method 1
a first optical system which allows at least a part of light beams emitted from the cores of each first multi-core fiber to have different propagation directions
Implementation Method 2
a second optical system which allows each light beam emitted from each first multi-core fiber and propagated through the first optical system to be condensed on the plurality of second multi-core fibers
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connecting structure for connecting multi-core fibers is disclosed. The optical connecting structure includes first multi-core fibers of which each optical fiber includes cores, second multi-core fibers of which each optical fiber includes cores, a first optical system which allows at least a part of light beams emitted from the cores of each first multi-core fiber to have different propagation directions, and a second optical system which allows each light beam emitted from each first multi-core fiber and propagated through the first optical system to be condensed on the plurality of second multi-core fibers. A first fiber array where the first multi-core fibers are arrayed in a first surface intersecting an optical axis of the first optical system corresponds to a first core array where the cores in the respective optical fibers of the first multi-core fibers are arrayed in the first surface.