Optical Module Wall Structure for Reflow-Stable Fiber Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical modules face issues with increased optical loss due to the restoring force caused by deformation of the optical fiber when subjected to reflow processes, leading to displacement of the optical connection point between the optical waveguide chip and the optical fiber.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a wall structure adjacent to the optical fiber to provide resistance and reduce the restoring force at the optical connection point by contact, thereby minimizing deformation and maintaining the optical connection stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the optical fiber is curved to create a small radius of curvature space, then the optical fiber can be held in a small region minimizing influence on other components, but a restoring force is applied to the optical connection portion causing adhesive deformation and increased optical connection loss
Solution Approach 1:
A wall structure is introduced as an intermediary element between the curved optical fiber and the optical connection portion. This wall structure absorbs and distributes the restoring force generated by the curved optical fiber, preventing direct transmission of stress to the optical connection portion and maintaining connection stability
Solution Approach 2:
The wall structure is positioned in advance to provide cushioning support to the curved optical fiber. By providing this preliminary support structure, the restoring force is mitigated before it can affect the optical connection portion, preventing adhesive deformation and connection loss
2Ease of manufacture
If the optical device is subjected to reflow process for mounting, then the mounting cost is reduced, but the optical fiber may largely move in the furnace causing displacement of the optical connection point
Solution Approach 1:
The wall structure is designed to provide preliminary constraint to the optical fiber before the reflow process. This pre-positioning and stress distribution mechanism counteracts the thermal expansion and movement forces that occur during reflow mounting, preventing displacement of the optical connection point
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 wall structure effectively reduces the restoring force on the optical connection point, suppressing optical loss and maintaining connection integrity during high-temperature mounting processes.
Implementation Method 1
the wall structure reduces a restoring force of the optical fiber that is applied to an optical connection portion between the optical waveguide chip and the optical fiber block, due to a resistance that acts on the optical fiber from the wall structure
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module according to the present invention includes: an optical device including an optical waveguide chip; an optical fiber block bonded to and arranged on an end face of the optical waveguide chip; an optical fiber that has one end optically connected to the optical waveguide chip via the optical fiber block; an optical fiber holding mechanism for holding the other end of the optical fiber; and an optical fiber carrier. The optical fiber is arranged while being curved from the optical fiber carrier toward the optical fiber block in a U-shape, and a wall structure is formed on the surface of the carrier while being adjacent to the optical fiber at, for example, a position on the outer side of the U-shaped curve of the optical fiber position at which the wall structure reduces a normal force of the optical fiber.