阅读说明：本技术 光通信连接器、控制方法和光通信设备 (Optical communication connector, control method and optical communication device ) 是由 森田宽 鸟羽一彰 山本真也 于 2019-08-22 设计创作，主要内容包括：提供了一种光通信连接器,包括控制单元(42),通过基于穿过透镜(162)并进入光纤(23)的光的通信质量来调整形状变化材料(21)的形状,以控制用于固定光纤(23)的套圈(170)与透镜(162)之间的位置对准。(An optical communication connector is provided, including a control unit (42) that controls positional alignment between a ferrule (170) for fixing an optical fiber (23) and a lens (162) by adjusting the shape of a shape-changing material (21) based on communication quality of light that passes through the lens (162) and enters the optical fiber (23).)

1. An optical communication connector includes

A control unit for controlling alignment of a ferrule for fixing the optical fiber and the lens, wherein

The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on a communication quality of light incident to the optical fiber via the lens to control the alignment.

2. The optical communication connector of claim 1, wherein

The shape change member includes a piezoelectric element, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member by changing the voltage applied to the piezoelectric element.

3. The optical communication connector according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines whether sensor data satisfies a predetermined condition, and controls the alignment if the sensor data satisfies the predetermined condition.

4. The optical communication connector according to claim 3, wherein the control unit determines whether the sensor data satisfies the predetermined condition for each of a plurality of directions, and controls the alignment in a direction corresponding to the direction satisfying the predetermined condition.

5. The optical communication connector according to claim 1, wherein the communication quality includes at least any one of an absolute value of power of light incident on the optical fiber and a number of errors occurring in the light.

6. The optical communication connector according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines a maximum communication quality among communication qualities respectively corresponding to a plurality of positional relationships between the ferrule and the lens, and controls the alignment in accordance with the positional relationship corresponding to the maximum communication quality.

7. The optical communication connector of claim 1, wherein

The shape changing member is coupled to a face of the ferrule parallel to an axial direction of the optical fiber, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member to control alignment of the ferrule in a direction orthogonal to an axial direction of the optical fiber.

8. The optical communication connector of claim 1, wherein

The shape changing member is coupled to a face of the ferrule orthogonal to an axial direction of the optical fiber, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member to control the alignment of the ferrule in the axial direction of the optical fiber.

9. The optical communication connector of claim 1, wherein

The shape changing member is coupled to a face of the ferrule parallel to an axial direction of the optical fiber, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member to control alignment of the ferrule in a rotational direction of an axis of the optical fiber or in a rotational direction of a direction orthogonal to the axis of the optical fiber.

10. The optical communication connector of claim 1, wherein

The control unit controls alignment of the ferrule for fixing the plurality of optical fibers and the lens array including lenses respectively corresponding to the plurality of optical fibers, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on communication quality of light incident to the plurality of optical fibers via the lens array to control the alignment.

11. The optical communication connector of claim 10, wherein

The shape changing member is coupled to a face of the ferrule parallel to an axial direction of the plurality of optical fibers, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member to control alignment of the ferrule with respect to a rotational direction of a central axis of the plurality of optical fibers.

12. The optical communication connector of claim 1, wherein an elastomer is coupled to at least either one of the ferrule and the lens.

13. The optical communication connector of claim 1, wherein

Disposing a light transmissive shape change material between the lens and the optical fiber, the light transmissive shape change material being coupled to the shape change member, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member and the shape of the light transmissive shape changing material to change a path of light, thereby controlling the alignment.

14. The optical communication connector of claim 1, wherein

Disposing a light transmissive shape change material between the lens and the optical fiber, the light transmissive shape change material being coupled to the shape change member, and

the control unit scatters light from the optical fiber in a case where the optical communication connector is not fitted with another connector, and changes the shape of the shape changing member and the shape of the light-transmissive shape changing material in a case where the optical communication connector is fitted with another connector to change a path of the light, thereby shaping the light from the optical fiber.

15. A control method, comprising:

a processor controls the alignment of a ferrule and a lens, the ferrule being used to secure an optical fiber; and

the processor varies a shape of the shape varying member based on a communication quality of light incident to the optical fiber via the lens, thereby controlling the alignment.

16. An optical communication connector includes

A control unit for controlling the alignment of the optical element and the lens, wherein

The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on the communication quality of the light reaching the optical element via the lens to control the alignment.

17. A control method, comprising:

the processor controls the alignment of the optical element and the lens; and

the processor varies a shape of a shape varying member to control the alignment based on a communication quality of light reaching the optical element via the lens.

18. An optical communication connector includes

A control unit for controlling the alignment of a first ferrule for holding a first optical fiber and a second ferrule for holding a second optical fiber, wherein

The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on a communication quality of light incident to the first optical fiber via the second optical fiber to control the alignment.

19. A control method, comprising:

a processor controls alignment of a first ferrule for securing a first optical fiber and a second ferrule for securing a second optical fiber; and

the processor varies a shape of the shape varying member based on a communication quality of light incident to the first optical fiber via the second optical fiber to control the alignment.

20. An optical communication device comprises

A control unit for controlling alignment of a ferrule for fixing the optical fiber and the lens, wherein

The control unit changes a shape of the shape changing member based on a communication quality of light incident to the optical fiber via the lens to control the alignment.

Technical Field

The invention relates to an optical communication connector, a control method and an optical communication device.

Prior Art

Recently, an optical transmission system that transmits light using an optical fiber is known. Such an optical transmission system allows light to be easily transmitted to a desired location using an optical fiber. For example, in order to keep the aperture ratio of laser light from the fiber exit within a desired range, a technique of adjusting the angle between the optical axis of the laser light and the incident end of the fiber on which the laser light is incident is disclosed (for example, see PTL 1).

CITATION LIST

Patent document

PTL 1: japanese unexamined patent application publication No. 2012-155159

Disclosure of Invention

Technical problem to be solved by the invention

Here, the optical fiber is also used for communication performed between a plurality of communication devices. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a technique that makes it possible to suppress deterioration in quality of communication using an optical fiber.

Means for solving the problems

According to the present disclosure, there is provided an optical communication connector including a control unit. The control unit controls the alignment of the ferrule and the lens. The ferrule is used to secure the optical fiber. The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on the communication quality of light incident to the optical fiber via the lens to control the alignment.

According to the present disclosure, there is provided a control method including: a processor controls the alignment of the ferrule and the lens, the ferrule being used to secure the optical fiber; and a processor varies the shape of the shape varying member based on a communication quality of light incident to the optical fiber via the lens, thereby controlling the alignment.

According to the present disclosure, there is provided an optical communication connector including a control unit. The control unit controls the alignment of the optical element with the lens. The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on the communication quality of the light reaching the optical element via the lens to control the alignment.

According to the present disclosure, there is provided a control method including: the processor controls the alignment of the optical element and the lens; and a processor varies the shape of the shape varying member based on the communication quality of the light reaching the optical element via the lens to control the alignment.

According to the present disclosure, there is provided an optical communication connector including a control unit. The control unit controls the alignment of the first and second ferrules. The first ferrule is used for fixing the first optical fiber. The second ferrule is used to secure a second optical fiber. The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on the communication quality of light incident to the first optical fiber via the second optical fiber to control the alignment.

According to the present disclosure, there is provided a control method including: the processor controls the alignment of a first ferrule and a second ferrule, the first ferrule being for securing a first optical fiber and the second ferrule being for securing a second optical fiber; and a processor varies the shape of the shape varying member based on a communication quality of light incident to the first optical fiber via the second optical fiber to control the alignment.

According to the present disclosure, there is provided an optical communication apparatus including a control unit. The control unit controls the alignment of the ferrule and the lens. The ferrule is used to secure the optical fiber. The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on the communication quality of the light incident to the optical fiber via the lens to control the alignment.

The invention has the advantages of

As described above, according to the present disclosure, there is provided a technique that makes it possible to suppress degradation in quality of communication using an optical fiber. Note that the above effects are not necessarily restrictive. Any of the effects described herein or any other effect understandable from the present specification may be applied in addition to or instead of the above-described effects.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of realizing collimated light by using a multimode optical fiber and a glass member with a lens.

Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of achieving collimated light using a single-mode optical fiber and a glass member with a lens.

Fig. 3 is a diagram for describing an overview of an optical communication connector according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to the same embodiment.

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an optical communication connector including a power monitor and a control unit.

Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of performing communication between two optical communication connectors.

Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of using a multi-channel optical fiber.

Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example in which the ferrule has a floating structure.

Fig. 9 is a diagram showing another example in which the ferrule has a floating structure.

Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a change in attachment of each shape changing member.

Fig. 11 is a view showing a change in attachment of each shape changing member.

Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a change in attachment of each shape changing member.

Fig. 13 is a diagram showing changes in the mounting positions of the shape changing members.

Fig. 14 is a diagram showing changes in the mounting positions of the shape changing members.

Fig. 15 is a diagram showing changes in the mounting positions of the shape changing members.

Fig. 16 is a diagram showing changes in the mounting positions of the shape changing members.

Fig. 17 is a diagram showing a change in the mounting position of each shape changing member.

Fig. 18 is a diagram showing a change in the mounting position of each shape changing member.

Fig. 19 is a diagram showing changes in the mounting positions of the shape changing members.

Fig. 20 is a diagram showing changes in the mounting positions of the shape changing members.

Fig. 21 is a diagram showing changes in the mounting positions of the shape changing members.

Fig. 22 is a diagram showing changes in the mounting positions of the shape changing members.

Fig. 23 is a diagram showing changes in the mounting positions of the shape changing members.

Fig. 24 is a diagram showing an example of using a light-transmissive shape-changing material.

Fig. 25 is a diagram showing an example of using a light-transmissive shape-changing material.

Fig. 26 is a diagram showing an example of using a light-transmissive shape-changing material.

Fig. 27 is a diagram showing an example of using a light-transmissive shape-changing material.

Fig. 28 is a diagram showing an example of using a light-transmissive shape-changing material.

Fig. 29 is a diagram showing an example of using a light-transmissive shape-changing material.

Fig. 30 is a diagram showing an example of using a mirror.

Fig. 31 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 32 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to the same embodiment.

Fig. 33 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to the same embodiment.

Fig. 34 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in the present specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, thereby avoiding repetitive description of these components.

Further, in the present specification and the drawings, two or more components having substantially the same or similar functional configurations are sometimes distinguished from each other by attaching different reference numerals to the same reference numeral after the same reference numeral. However, in the case where it is not necessary to particularly distinguish two or more components having substantially the same or similar functional configurations, only the same reference numerals are attached. Moreover, similar components of different embodiments are sometimes distinguished by different letters appended to the same reference label. However, in the case where it is not necessary to particularly distinguish similar components from each other, only the same reference numerals are attached.

Note that the description is given in the following order.

0. Overview

1. First embodiment

1.1. Configuration example of optical communication connector

1.2. Examples of use of multichannel fibers

1.3. Floating structure

1.4. Modification of mounting of shape-changing member

1.5. Example of variation in mounting position of shape-changing member

1.6. Use of light transmissive shape change materials

1.7. Use of mirrors

2. Second embodiment

2.1. Configuration example of optical communication connector

3. Third embodiment

3.1. Configuration example of optical communication connector

4. Modifications of the invention

5. Conclusion

<0. overview >

First, an overview of embodiments of the present disclosure is described. Recently, an optical transmission system that transmits light using an optical fiber is known. Such an optical transmission system allows light to be easily transmitted to a desired location using an optical fiber. For example, in order to maintain the aperture ratio of laser light emitted from the exit of the optical fiber within a desired range, a technique of adjusting the angle between the optical axis of the laser light and the incident end of the optical fiber on which the laser light is incident is disclosed.

Here, the optical fiber is also used for communication between a plurality of communication devices. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure mainly propose a technique that makes it possible to suppress deterioration of communication quality using an optical fiber. In particular, in the embodiments of the present disclosure, high-precision alignment of the optical axis of the optical fiber with respect to the transmitted light allows suppressing deterioration of the communication quality using the optical fiber. For example, as the fiber mode, there are a multimode and a single mode. Techniques according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to multiple modes as well as to single modes. However, techniques according to embodiments of the present disclosure are particularly suited for single mode.

Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of realizing collimated light using a multimode optical fiber and a glass member with a lens. Referring to fig. 1, a core 90 is present inside a multimode optical fiber 91. In the case where the optical fiber 91 is the transmission side, the light output from the optical fiber 91 passes through the glass member 94 with a lens to become collimated light L11, and reaches the reception side. In contrast, in the case where the optical fiber 91 serves as the receiving side, the collimated light L11 from the transmitting side is collected by the lensed glass member 94 and reaches the optical fiber 91 of the receiving side.

Where multiple modes are used, the core 90 is typically about 50 μm to 62.5 μm in diameter. Therefore, in the case of using the multi-mode, it is relatively easy to collect the collimated light L11 output from the transmission-side optical fiber to the reception-side optical fiber.

Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of achieving collimated light using a single-mode optical fiber and a glass member with a lens. Referring to fig. 2, a single mode optical fiber 93 has a core 92 therein. In the case of a single mode fiber, the core 92 typically has a diameter of 8 μm to 10 μm. That is, where single mode is used, the diameter of the core 92 is typically about 1/8 to 1/5 of the diameter of the core 90 where multiple modes are used. Therefore, especially in the case of using a single mode, it is necessary to perform alignment of the optical axis of the optical fiber with high accuracy as compared with the case of using a multi mode in order to suppress deterioration of communication quality.

In general, in order to perform alignment of the optical axis of an optical fiber with high accuracy, it is necessary to use a member that is easy to process or a member that applies less deformation due to heat or external causes. Therefore, in the case of using the single mode, the cost tends to increase as compared with the case of using the multi mode. In order to solve this problem, particularly in the case of using a single mode, it is necessary to provide a technique of aligning the optical axis of the optical fiber with high accuracy while suppressing an increase in cost.

In the above, an overview of embodiments of the present disclosure has been described.

<1. first embodiment >

Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[1.1. configuration example of optical communication connector ]

First, a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is described. Fig. 3 is a diagram for describing an overview of an optical communication connector according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in fig. 3, the optical communication connector 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes an optical transmission member 110 and an optical fiber 23. Inside the optical fiber 23 there is a core 22. Light transmissive section 110 may be configured to include glass or may be configured to include resin. Note that the optical fiber is also referred to as an optical fiber.

The optical communication connector 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention physically changes the position of the optical fiber 23, thereby controlling the position of the axis (hereinafter also referred to as "optical axis") of the optical fiber 23. Alternatively, the optical communication connector 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention physically changes the position of the light transmissive section 110, thereby adjusting the light collection point obtained from the light transmissive section 110. Therefore, the positional relationship between the optical axis of the optical fiber 23 and the light collection point from the light transmissive section 110 is controlled, thereby suppressing the degradation of the communication quality.

Note that, in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, mainly described is an example in which the optical communication connector 10 generates collimated light L11 using the light transmissive section 110. However, as will be described later, the optical communication connector 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to an example in which the collimated light L11 is generated using the light transmissive section 110. For example, the optical communication connector 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is also applicable to a PC (physical contact) type in which optical fibers are butted together in the connector. A further detailed embodiment of the optical communication connector 10 shown in fig. 3 is described below.

Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in fig. 4, the optical communication connector 11 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a lensed light transmissive member 160 and a ferrule 170 independent of each other. The lensed light transmissive section 160 is an example of the light transmissive section 110 and includes lenses 162. Note that the lensed light transmitting member 160 may be configured to include glass or may be configured to include resin. The ferrule 170 is a member that fixes the optical fiber 23.

As shown in fig. 4, the light transmissive material 30 is preferably disposed between the lensed light transmissive member 160 and the ferrule 170. The provision of the light transmissive material 30 between the lensed light transmissive member 160 and the ferrule 170 makes it possible to prevent reflection of light at the interface. For example, the light-transmitting material 30 may be configured to include a resin. Note that, instead of providing the light transmissive material 30 between the lensed light transmissive member 160 and the ferrule 170, each end face of the lensed light transmissive member 160 and the ferrule 170 may be provided with an AR (anti-reflection) coating.

Preferably, ferrule 170 has a hole 171 into which a fiber fixative 172 is injected. For example, the optical fiber fixer 172 may be configured to include an adhesive, and the adhesive may be configured to include a light transmissive resin. The fiber fixing agent 172 is injected from the hole 171, and the optical fiber 23 is fixed to the ferrule 170 by the fiber fixing agent 172. This enables the optical fiber 23 to be stably fixed to the ferrule 170.

Referring to FIG. 4, eight shape changing members 21 (shape changing members 21-1 to 21-4 on the closer side of the page and shape changing members 21-5 to 21-8 on the farther side of the page) are coupled to ferrule 170. However, the number of the shape changing members 21 is not limited. In the example shown in fig. 4, each shape changing member 21 is directly coupled to a ferrule 170. However, as will be described later, each shape changing member 21 may be indirectly coupled to the ferrule 170 with another member therebetween. Further, as will be described later, the positions where the respective shape changing members 21 are provided are also not limited. For example, each shape changing component 21 may be coupled (directly or indirectly) to a lensed light transmitting component 160.

Hereinafter, it is mainly assumed that each shape changing member 21 includes a piezoelectric (Piezo) element. In this case, by changing the voltage applied to the piezoelectric element, it is allowed to change the shape of each shape changing member 21. However, the specific configuration of each shape changing member 21 is not limited. By changing the shape of each shape changing member 21, the position of the collar 170, which is directly or indirectly coupled to each shape changing member 21, is physically moved. Thus, the positional relationship between the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive section 160 is controlled. This allows the position of the core 22 to be aligned with the desired position.

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an optical communication connector including a power monitor and a control unit. As shown in fig. 5, the optical communication connector 11 may include a power monitor 41 and a control unit 42. Note that the optical communication connector 11 may not necessarily include the control unit 42. That is, the control unit 42 may exist outside the optical communication connector 11 (e.g., at a position remote from the optical communication connector 11). A part or all of the light collected by the lens 162 is incident on one end of the optical fiber 23, is output from the other end of the optical fiber 23, and is detected by the power monitor 41.

The power monitor 41 detects an absolute value of the power of light incident on one end of the optical fiber 23 (light output from the other end of the optical fiber 23), and notifies the control unit 42 of the absolute value of the detected power of light. The scheme of detecting the absolute value of the power of light is not limited. For example, as a detection scheme of the absolute value of the power of light, a photoelectric conversion scheme may be used which converts light into an electric signal by a photodiode or the like and detects the absolute value of the power based on the electric signal after the conversion. Alternatively, as a method of detecting the absolute value of the power of light, a thermoelectric conversion method may be used in which light energy is absorbed by the photoreceptor and thermal energy is measured.

The control unit 42 controls the alignment of the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive section 160 (i.e., the alignment of the ferrule 170 and the lens 162). Specifically, the control unit 42 changes the shape of each shape changing member 21 based on the communication quality of the light incident to the optical fiber 23 via the lens 162, thereby controlling the alignment of the ferrule 170 and the lensed light transmitting member 160.

For example, as described above, each shape changing member 21 includes a piezoelectric element. The control unit 42 may change the shape of each shape changing member 21 by changing the voltage applied to the piezoelectric element. As will be described later, the shape of each shape changing member 21 can be switched quickly by including a piezoelectric element.

Here, as an example of the communication quality, a case of using an absolute value of the power of light incident on the optical fiber 23 is mainly assumed. The larger the absolute value of the optical power is, the higher the communication quality becomes. However, the communication quality is not limited to such an example. For example, the communication quality may be the number of errors caused in the light incident on the optical fiber 23. The larger the number of errors, the lower the communication quality becomes. The number of errors may include an error rate detected using an error correction code. Alternatively, the number of errors may include BER (bit error rate) obtained from a subsequent circuit.

The specific alignment method is not limited. The control unit 42 acquires, from the power monitor 41, communication qualities corresponding to two or more positional relationships between the ferrule 170 and the light transmissive member 160 with lenses. Further, the control unit 42 may determine the maximum communication quality among the communication qualities corresponding to the two or more positional relationships between the ferrule 170 and the light transmissive member 160 with lenses. The control unit 42 may control the alignment of the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive section 160 according to the positional relationship corresponding to the maximum communication quality.

Alternatively, the control unit 42 may determine the maximum communication quality in a stepwise manner. As a result, the speed of searching for the maximum communication quality is allowed to be increased. That is, in the case where two or more positional relationships between the ferrule 170 and the light transmissive member 160 with lenses include several sections, the section having the largest representative value may be determined based on the representative values of the communication qualities belonging to the respective portions, and the largest communication quality may be obtained from the communication quality belonging to the section having the largest representative value. Further, the control unit 42 may control the alignment of the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive section 160 according to the positional relationship corresponding to the maximum communication quality.

Alternatively, the control unit 42 may acquire communication qualities corresponding to several respective positional relationships between the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive section 160. The control unit 42 can estimate the positional relationship corresponding to the maximum communication quality (i.e., how much the positional relationship between the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive section 160 needs to be changed to obtain the maximum communication quality) from the communication qualities corresponding to the plurality of respective positional relationships. In addition, the control unit 42 may also control the positional alignment of the ferrule 170 and the light transmissive member 160 with lenses according to the estimated positional relationship.

Here, since each shape changing member 21 is connected to the ferrule 170, a case is assumed in which the control unit 42 changes the shape of each shape changing member 21 to control the position of the ferrule 170, thereby controlling the positional relationship between the ferrule 170 and the light transmissive member 160 with lenses. However, as will be described later, in the case where each shape changing member 21 is coupled to the lensed light transmitting member 160, the control unit 42 may change the shape of each shape changing member 21 to control the position of the lensed light transmitting member 160, thereby controlling the positional relationship between the ferrule 170 and the lensed light transmitting member 160.

Control unit 42 may be allowed to move or rotate the position of collar 170 in any direction. Further, the control unit 42 may control the shapes of the respective shape changing members 21 to the same shape at the same time. However, it is desirable to allow the control unit 42 to independently control the shapes of the respective shape changing members 21. The control unit 42 allows alignment in two or more different directions by independently controlling the shape of each shape changing member 21.

Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, as shown in fig. 5, the vertical direction of the ferrule 170 in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the optical fiber 23 is referred to as the "X-axis direction", and the horizontal direction of the ferrule 170 is referred to as the "Y-axis direction". The direction parallel to the axial direction of the optical fiber 23 is referred to as "Z-axis direction".

For example, in the case where each shape changing member 21 is coupled to a face of the ferrule 170 parallel to the axial direction of the optical fiber 23, the control unit 42 is allowed to control the alignment of the ferrule 170 in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the optical fiber 23 by changing the shape of each shape changing member 21.

Specifically, as shown in fig. 5, in the case where each of the shape changing members 21 is coupled to either one of the upper and lower faces of the ferrule 170 in parallel with the axial direction of the optical fiber 23, the control unit 42 is allowed to change the shape of the shape changing member 21 (for example, change the shape of the shape changing members 21-1, 21-2, 21-5, and 21-6 on the upper face of the ferrule 170, or change the shape of the shape changing members 21-3, 21-4, 21-7, and 21-8 on the lower face of the ferrule 170), thereby controlling the alignment of the ferrule 170 in the X-axis direction.

Further, the control unit 42 may be allowed to change the shape of the shape changing member 21 (for example, change the shapes of the shape changing members 21-1 and 21-5 on the upper face of the ferrule 170 and on the side away from the lensed light transmitting member 160 and the shapes of the shape changing members 21-4 and 21-8 on the lower face of the ferrule 170 and on the side close to the lensed light transmitting member 160, or change the shapes of the shape changing members 21-2 and 21-6 on the upper face of the ferrule 170 and on the side close to the lensed light transmitting member 160 and the shapes of the shape changing members 21-3 and 21-7 on the lower face of the ferrule 170 and on the side away from the lensed light transmitting member 160), thereby controlling the alignment of the ferrule 170 in the Y-axis rotation direction.

Further, the control unit 42 is allowed to change the shape of the shape changing member 21 (for example, change the shapes of the shape changing members 21-1 and 21-2 on the upper face of the ferrule 170 and on the closer side of the paper surface and the shapes of the shape changing members 21-7 and 21-8 on the lower face of the ferrule 170 and on the farther side of the paper surface, or change the shapes of the shape changing members 21-5 and 21-6 on the upper face of the ferrule 170 and on the farther side of the paper surface and the shapes of the shape changing members 21-3 and 21-4 on the lower face of the ferrule 170 and on the closer side of the paper surface), thereby controlling the alignment of the ferrule 170 in the Z-axis rotational direction.

In the example shown in fig. 5, the control unit 42 is allowed to perform alignment of the ferrule 170 in each of the X-axis direction, the Y-axis rotation direction, and the Z-axis rotation direction. However, as will be described later, the control unit 42 is also allowed to perform alignment of the ferrule 170 in each of the Z-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the X-axis rotation direction, in accordance with the positions at which the respective shape changing members 21 are set. That is, the control unit 42 is allowed to perform the alignment of the ferrule 170 in each of the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, the Z-axis direction, the X-axis rotation direction, the Y-axis rotation direction, and the Z-axis rotation direction.

There is no limitation on the timing of the alignment of the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive section 160. For example, the control unit 42 may control the alignment at a predetermined cycle. Alternatively, the control unit 42 may determine whether data (sensor data) obtained from a predetermined sensor satisfies a predetermined condition, and may control the alignment in a case where the sensor data satisfies the predetermined condition. For example, the predetermined condition may be a condition that a sensor value exceeds a threshold value. Further, the type of sensor is not limited. For example, the sensor may comprise an acceleration sensor or may comprise a gyroscope sensor.

The position where the sensor is disposed is not limited. For example, it may be provided on the same mobile body as the mobile body (e.g., vehicle, etc.) provided with the optical communication connector 11. The alignment is controlled by following the shift of the optical axis due to the vibration of the moving body, thereby allowing the deterioration of the communication quality to be suppressed. The direction of alignment may be determined consistently, but it is desirable to control the direction of alignment based on sensor data. That is, the control unit 42 may determine whether the sensor data satisfies a predetermined condition for each of the two or more directions, and may control the alignment in the direction corresponding to the direction satisfying the predetermined condition.

Here, the two or more directions may be a part or all of an X-axis direction, a Y-axis direction, a Z-axis direction, an X-axis rotation direction, a Y-axis rotation direction, and a Z-axis rotation direction. In particular, in order to allow control of alignment following movement with high-speed change (e.g., vibration of a vehicle, etc.), it is desirable that each shape changing member 21 includes an element (such as a piezoelectric element) capable of controlling the amount of change in the positional relationship between the ferrule 170 and the lens-equipped light transmitting member 160 by rapidly switching the applied voltage.

Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of communication between two optical communication connectors 11. Referring to fig. 6, an example is shown in which two optical communication connectors 11 are opposed to each other and collimated light L11 is communicated between the two optical communication connectors 11. If the above-described alignment of the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmitting member 160 is performed in each of the two optical communication connectors 11, deterioration in the quality of communication performed between the two optical communication connectors 11 is suppressed.

[1.2. example of use of multichannel optical fiber ]

In the above, an example of communication using the single optical fiber 23 (an example of using a single-channel optical fiber) is described. However, two or more optical fibers 23 may be used for communication (multi-channel optical fibers may be used). Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of using a multi-channel optical fiber. Referring to fig. 7, a plurality of channels (two or more optical fibers 23) are secured to ferrule 170. Further, the lensed light transmitting member 160 includes lenses 162 (lens array) corresponding to the plurality of channels (two or more optical fibers 23). Further, the control unit 42 controls the alignment of the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive section 160.

In this case, the control unit 42 may control the alignment by changing the shape of each of the shape changing members 21 based on the communication quality of light incident to a plurality of channels (two or more optical fibers 23) via the lens array. This makes it unnecessary for the control unit 42 to independently control the positions of the plurality of channels (two or more optical fibers 23), and allows the control unit 42 to collectively control the positions of the plurality of channels (two or more optical fibers 23).

In the case of using a multi-channel fiber, control unit 42 may also be allowed to move or rotate the position of ferrule 170 in any direction, as in the case of using a single channel fiber. In particular, by changing the shape of the corresponding shape changing member 21, as in the alignment in the Z-axis rotational direction described above, the control unit 42 is allowed to control the alignment of the ferrule 170 in the rotational direction of the central axes (in fig. 7, Z1 axis) of the plurality of channels (two or more optical fibers 23).

Note that, referring to fig. 7, the lensed optically transmissive element 160 of one of the optical communication connectors 11 is provided with two recesses 163-1, while the lensed optically transmissive element 160 of the other of the optical communication connectors 11 is provided with two protrusions 163-2. Further, the two optical communication connectors 11 are coupled by fitting the two recesses 163-1 to the respective opposite projections 163-2. However, the method of coupling the two optical communication connectors 11 is not limited to such an example. For example, the two optical communication connectors 11 may be coupled using pins, or may be coupled by any other method.

[1.3. Floating Structure ]

Here, in order to allow the position of ferrule 170 to be controllable as described above, a method of providing ferrule 170 with a floating structure (without fixing ferrule 170 to an external part of optical communication connector 11) is conceivable.

Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example in which the ferrule 170 has a floating structure. The optical communication connector 11 shown in fig. 8 is a view of the optical communication connector 11 shown in fig. 4 as viewed from above. Further, fig. 8 shows the connector outer member 50 (a portion corresponding to the outside of the connector touched by the user's hand) covering the ferrule 170 and the lensed light transmissive member 160. The optical communication connector 1 with an external member includes an optical communication connector 11, a connector external member 50, eight shape changing members 21 (four shape changing members 21 are provided on each of the upper and lower faces of the ferrule 170), and four elastic bodies 51.

Further, referring to fig. 8, the connector outer 50 and the ferrule 170 are coupled by two elastic bodies 51 (in fig. 8, springs). This allows ferrule 170 to be movable relative to connector outer member 50. In addition, ferrule 170 may be fixed to connector outer 50 without controlling the position of ferrule 170. The number and position of the elastic bodies 51 are not limited. Further, as shown in fig. 8, each of the elastic bodies 51 may be directly coupled to the connector outer 50 and the ferrule 170, or may be indirectly coupled to the connector outer 50 and the ferrule 170 with another member therebetween.

Further, referring to fig. 8, the connector exterior part 50 and the lensed light transmitting part 160 are connected by two elastic bodies 51 (in fig. 8, springs). This allows the lensed light-transmissive section 160 to be movable relative to the connector outer section 50. In addition, in the case where the position of the lens light transmission member 160 does not need to be controlled, the lens light transmission member 160 may be fixed to the connector outer 50. The number and position of the elastic bodies 51 are not limited. Further, as shown in fig. 9, each of the elastic bodies 51 may be directly coupled to the connector exterior part 50 and the lensed light transmission part 160, or may be indirectly coupled to the connector exterior part 50 and the lensed light transmission part 160 with other parts therebetween.

Fig. 9 is a diagram showing another example in which the ferrule 170 has a floating structure. The optical communication connector 2 having an external member includes the optical communication connector 11, the connector external member 50, eight shape changing members 21 (four shape changing members 21 provided on each of the upper and lower faces of the ferrule 170), and six elastic bodies 51. Unlike the optical communication connector 1 with an external component shown in fig. 8, the optical communication connector 2 with an external component has four elastic bodies 51 coupled to the left and right of the ferrule 170.

[1.4. variation of mounting of shape-changing Member ]

Various modifications can be adopted for the mounting of each shape changing member 21. Fig. 10 to 12 are diagrams showing a modification of the mounting of each shape changing member 21. In these variations, the position of the inner portion (ferrule 170) is controlled relative to the connector outer 50.

Referring to fig. 10, the optical communication connector 3 with an exterior member includes an optical communication connector 11, a connector exterior member 50, eight shape changing members 21 (four shape changing members 21 are provided on each of the nearer and farther sides of the paper surface), and two elastic bodies 51. In this example, the connector outer member 50 and the ferrule 170 are directly coupled to each shape changing member 21. In this case, the ferrule 170 may be affected by the accuracy of the connector outer 50, the vibration of the connector outer 50, and the like. In contrast, since the lensed light-transmissive section 160 is coupled to the connector exterior section 50 through the elastic body 51, there is a possibility that the lensed light-transmissive section 160 is not affected by the accuracy of the connector exterior section 50 or the vibration of the connector exterior section 50, thereby allowing the axis of the optical fiber to be shifted and causing deterioration of the communication quality.

Referring to fig. 11, unlike the optical communication connector 3 with an external component shown in fig. 10, the optical communication connector 4 with an external component further includes eight bases 52 (four bases 52 are provided on the nearer and farther sides of the paper surface). Each base 52 is sandwiched between a shape changing member 21 and a ferrule 170. With such a structure, even in a case where the size of the shape changing member 21 is limited or the like, the space between the connector outer 50 and the shape changing member 21 can be adjusted. The number of shape changing members 21 and the number of bases 52 may not necessarily be the same. For example, one base 52 may be provided for two or more shape changing members 21.

The material of the base 52 is not limited. For example, each base 52 may be configured to include a simple component such as metal or resin, or may be configured to include something having a specific function, such as MEMS (micro electro mechanical system). Where each pedestal 52 comprises a MEMS, each pedestal 52 is combined with a shape-changing component 21 to allow for more precise alignment.

Referring to fig. 12, unlike the optical communication connector 3 with an external member shown in fig. 10, the optical communication connector 5 with an external member includes an elastic body 51 sandwiched between a connector external member 50 and each shape changing member 21. With this configuration, the strength of floating of the ferrule 170 is further increased as compared with the optical communication connector 3 with an external component shown in fig. 10 and the optical communication connector 4 with an external component shown in fig. 11. Therefore, the resistance of ferrule 170 to the influence of vibration of connector outer 50 and the like can be improved.

[1.5. variation of mounting position of shape-changing Member ]

Various modifications are conceivable for the mounting positions of the shape changing members 21. Each of fig. 13 to 23 is a diagram showing a modification of the mounting position of each shape changing member 21. Referring to fig. 13 and 14, unlike the optical communication connector 5 with an external member shown in fig. 12, the optical communication connector 6 with an external member includes shape changing members 21-9 to 21-12 that are coupled to a face orthogonal to the axial direction of the optical fiber (in fig. 13, a face of the ferrule 170 opposite to the lensed light transmitting member 160). Note that, as an example shown in fig. 10, the connector outer member 50 and the ferrule 170 may be directly coupled to each shape changing member 21, or may be indirectly coupled to each shape changing member 21 with the base 52 therebetween.

The control unit 42 allows the alignment of the ferrule 170 in the Z-axis direction (the axial direction of the optical fiber) to be controlled by changing the shape of the shape changing members 21-9 to 21-12. Further, control unit 42 allows for controlling the alignment of ferrule 170 in the X-axis rotational direction by changing the shape of shape changing member 21 (e.g., by changing the shape of shape changing members 21-9 and 21-11, or by changing the shape of shape changing members 21-10 and 21-12). Further, control unit 42 allows for controlling the alignment of ferrule 170 in the Y-axis rotational direction by changing the shape of shape changing member 21 (e.g., by changing the shape of shape changing members 21-9 and 21-10, or by changing the shape of shape changing members 21-11 and 21-12).

Referring to fig. 15, the optical communication connector 7 with external components includes shape changing members 21-13 to 21-20 (shape changing members 21-13 to 21-16 on the near side of the paper surface and shape changing members 21-17 to 21-20 on the far side of the paper surface) coupled to faces parallel to the axial direction of the optical fiber (in fig. 15, the left and right faces of the ferrule 170). Note that, as an example shown in fig. 10, the connector outer member 50 and the ferrule 170 may be directly coupled to each shape changing member 21, or may be indirectly coupled to each shape changing member 21 with the base 52 therebetween.

Control unit 42 allows for control of the alignment of ferrule 170 in the Y-axis direction by changing the shape of shape changing member 21 (e.g., by changing the shape of shape changing members 21-13, 21-14, 21-17, and 21-18, or by changing the shape of shape changing members 21-15, 21-16, 21-19, and 21-20).

In addition, control unit 42 allows for controlling the alignment of ferrule 170 in the X-axis rotational direction by changing the shape of shape changing component 21 (e.g., by changing the shape of shape changing components 21-14, 21-15, 21-18, and 21-19, or by changing the shape of shape changing components 21-13, 21-16, 21-17, and 21-20). In addition, control unit 42 allows for controlling the alignment of ferrule 170 in the Z-axis rotational direction by changing the shape of shape changing component 21 (e.g., by changing the shape of shape changing components 21-13, 21-14, 21-19, and 21-20, or by changing the shape of shape changing components 21-15 through 21-18).

Referring to fig. 16, each shape changing member 21 is coupled to any one of four faces (left, right, upper and lower faces of the ferrule 170) parallel to the axial direction of the optical fiber. That is, the optical communication connector with external component 8 shown in fig. 16 is an example in which the optical communication connector with external component 1 shown in fig. 8 and the optical communication connector with external component 7 shown in fig. 15 are coupled. This allows the control unit 42 to control the position of the collar 170 in each direction, as in the example shown in fig. 8 and 15.

Referring to fig. 17 to 19, each shape changing member 21 is coupled to the lensed light transmitting member 160 instead of the ferrule 170. That is, the control unit 42 controls the position of the light transmissive member 160 with lenses by changing the shape of the shape changing member 21. Also, in the case where each shape changing member 21 is coupled to the lensed light transmitting member 160, as in the case where each shape changing member 21 is coupled to the ferrule 170, the number and position of the shape changing members 21 are not limited, and each shape changing member 21 may be directly coupled to the lensed light transmitting member 160 or may be indirectly coupled to the lensed light transmitting member 160 with other members therebetween.

The position of the lensed light-transmissive section 160 is allowed to be controlled by a method similar to that used for the position of the ferrule 170. However, in the case where each shape changing member 21 is coupled to the lensed light transmitting member 160, if the two lensed light transmitting members 160 are directly fixed when the two optical communication connectors 11 are positioned (for example, using the recessed portions 163-1 and the raised portions 163-2, or using pins or the like, as described with reference to fig. 7), one lensed light transmitting member 160 becomes immovable with respect to the other lensed light transmitting member 160.

Therefore, as shown in fig. 18, it is necessary that the lensed light transmissive sections 160 do not fit each other, and the two optical communication connectors 11 are positioned so that a space exists between the two lensed light transmissive sections 160. In this case, although not shown, positioning mechanisms for the two optical communication connectors 11 may be provided on the connector outer section side. Further, in the examples shown in fig. 17 to 19, the shape changing member 21 is coupled only to the lensed light transmitting member 160. However, the shape changing member 21 may also be coupled to the ferrule 170, and the position of both the lensed light transmitting member 160 and the ferrule 170 may be controlled using the shape changing member 21.

Referring to fig. 20, the optical communication connector 12 includes shape changing members 21 each coupled to a face orthogonal to the axial direction of the optical fiber (in fig. 20, a face of the ferrule 170 on the side of the lensed light transmitting member 160). More specifically, each shape changing member 21 is interposed between the ferrule 170 and the lensed light transmitting member 160. Note that the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive member 160 may be directly coupled to each shape changing member 21, or may be indirectly coupled to each shape changing member 21 with other members therebetween.

Referring to fig. 21, an enlarged view of region a11 surrounding the coupling portion of the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive member 160 is shown. In this example, the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmissive member 160 are directly coupled to each shape-changing member 21. Alternatively, as shown in fig. 22, the ferrule 170 and the light transmissive member 160 with lenses may be indirectly coupled to each shape changing member 21 with the elastic body 51 (spring in fig. 22) therebetween. By providing the elastic body 51, even in the case where the shape of the shape changing member 21 is restricted or the like, it is allowed to reduce the structural condition imposed by such restriction.

Referring to fig. 23, the ferrule 170 and the lensed light-transmitting member 160 may be indirectly coupled to each shape changing member 21 with the plate spring 53 therebetween. Pressing leaf spring 53 from the top (or from the bottom) allows increasing or decreasing the distance between ferrule 170 and lensed light-transmissive component 160. At this time, the plate spring 53 may be directly pressed by the shape changing member 21, or may be indirectly pressed by the base 52 interposed therebetween as shown in fig. 23. As described above, although the material of the base 52 is not limited, if the base 52 is configured to include an object having a specific function, such as MEMS, it is allowed to adjust the length of the plate spring 53 with higher accuracy.

[1.6. use of light-transmitting shape-changing Material ]

Next, an example of using the light-transmissive shape-changing material is described. Fig. 24 and 25 are diagrams showing an example of using a light-transmissive shape-changing material.

Referring to fig. 24, the optical communication connector 13 includes a ferrule 170 and a lensed light transmissive section 160, and the light transmissive shape change material 31 is sandwiched between the ferrule 170 and the lensed light transmissive section 160. The material of the light-transmitting shape-changing material 31 is not limited, but the light-transmitting shape-changing material 31 may be composed of a glass film, or may be composed of a liquid lens. Further, each shape changing member 21 is coupled to the light transmissive shape changing material 31.

The shape of the light-transmitting shape-changing material 31 changes according to pressure applied from the outside. Therefore, as shown in fig. 25, when the control unit 42 changes the shape of each shape changing member 21, pressure is applied from each shape changing member 21 to the light-transmitting shape changing material 31. Therefore, the shape of the light-transmitting shape-changing material 31 also changes. As shown in fig. 25, the light transmissive material 30 is interposed between the light transmissive shape changing material 31 and the ferrule 170, and a space is provided between the light transmissive material 30 and the lensed light transmissive section 160, thereby forming a convex lens between the light transmissive shape changing material 31 and the lensed light transmissive section 160.

That is, the control unit 42 can change (control) the path (optical path) of the light by changing (controlling) the shape of the convex lens (changing the shapes of the shape changing member 21 and the light-transmitting shape changing material 31). This allows the control unit 42 to control the position of the light collection point (to control the alignment) to increase the rate at which light is collected into the core 22 of the optical fiber 23. Referring to fig. 24, the rate of light collection into the core 22 of the optical fiber 23 is low, but referring to fig. 25, the rate of light collection into the core 22 of the optical fiber 23 increases due to a change in the optical path.

In the above, an example has been described in which the light transmissive shape-changing material (convex lens shape) is controlled so as to increase the light collection ratio of the core of the optical fiber to the light receiving side (light receiving side). However, by controlling the light transmission shape-changing material (convex lens shape) on the light exit side (transmission side), desired collimated light can also be generated. Fig. 26 and 27 are diagrams showing an example of using a light-transmissive shape-changing material.

Referring to fig. 26, the optical communication connector 13 is shown when it is not fitted (to another optical communication connector). When the optical communication connector 13 is not fitted, since this is before the shape change of the shape changing member 21 and the light transmissive shape changing material 31, a convex lens has not been formed yet, and the light output from the optical fiber 23 is diffused. At this time, it is desirable that the power amount of light output from the optical communication connector 13 be attenuated to an optical power amount that satisfies the eye safety standard.

Referring to fig. 27, two optical communication connectors 13 fitted to each other are shown. When the optical communication connector 13 is fitted, the control unit 42 changes the shapes of the shape changing member 21 and the light-transmitting shape changing material 31 to form a convex lens. As a result, the path (optical path) of the light is changed. Therefore, the light output from the optical fiber 23 is transmitted through the convex lens (for example, as collimated light L11). This makes it possible to ensure the amount of power of the transferable light. Note that the light output from the optical fiber 23 does not necessarily have to be changed into collimated light L11 by a convex lens, and it suffices that the light output from the optical fiber 23 is shaped into light of a predetermined shape (for example, light having a direction angle smaller than that at the time of non-fitting).

Further, the control unit 42 may detect the fitting state (whether fitting or non-fitting) of the optical communication connector 13 in any manner. For example, in the case where the electrode is provided to the connector exterior part 50, the control unit 42 is allowed to detect whether fitting or non-fitting is performed based on whether the electrode is on.

Fig. 28 and 29 are diagrams showing an example of using a light-transmissive shape-changing material. More specifically, these correspond to modifications of the examples using the light-transmissive shape-changing material shown in fig. 24 and 25. Referring to fig. 28, the optical communication connector 14 has a ferrule 170 and a lensed light transmissive member 160, and the light transmissive shape change material 31 is sandwiched between the ferrule 170 and the lensed light transmissive member 160, as in the example shown in fig. 24. Further, each shape changing member 21 is coupled to the light transmissive shape changing material 31. In the example shown in fig. 28, the position of each shape changing member 21 is different as compared with the example shown in fig. 24.

Referring to fig. 29, the shape of the shape changing member 21 and the light-transmitting shape changing material 31 is changed. In the example shown in fig. 29, the shape of each shape changing member 21 after the shape change is different from that in the example shown in fig. 25. In the example shown in fig. 29, the shape of the light-transmissive shape-changing material 31 after the shape change is different from that in the example shown in fig. 25.

[1.7 use of reflecting mirror ]

Next, an example using a mirror is described. Fig. 30 is a diagram showing an example of using a mirror.

Referring to fig. 30, the optical communication connector 18 includes a ferrule 173 and the light transmissive member 160 with a lens, and a mirror 174 is provided inside the ferrule 173. The direction of light output from the optical fiber 23 is changed by the mirror 174, and the light is made incident to the lens 162. On the other hand, the direction of the light emitted from the lens 162 is changed by the mirror 174, and the light enters the optical fiber 23. Therefore, the position of the optical fiber 23 can be appropriately changed, and thus the degree of freedom in design can be improved.

Above, the first embodiment of the present disclosure has been described.

<2 > second embodiment

Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[2.1. configuration example of optical communication connector ]

Next, a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is described. In the first embodiment of the present disclosure, mainly described is an example in which the alignment of the optical fiber 23 and the lens 162 is controlled. In the second embodiment of the present invention, the case where an optical device is used instead of the optical fiber 23 is mainly described. The other structure is similar between the first embodiment of the present invention and the second embodiment of the present invention. That is, it also allows the alignment of the optical element and lens 162 to be controlled by a method similar to that of the optical fiber 23 and lens 162.

The specific configuration of the optical device is not limited. For example, the optical device may be a VCSEL (vertical cavity surface emitting laser) or a PD (photodiode).

Fig. 31 to 33 are each a diagram showing a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to fig. 31, in the optical communication connector 15 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, an optical device 24 is used instead of the optical fiber 23. As in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure controls the alignment of the optical device 24 and the lens 162 by changing the shape of each shape changing member 21 based on the communication quality of the light reaching the optical device 24 via the lens 162.

Further, referring to fig. 32, in the optical communication connector 16, the reflecting mirror 174 is provided inside the ferrule 173. This allows the position of the optics 24 to be changed appropriately. Therefore, the degree of freedom of design can be increased. For example, as shown in fig. 32, the optical element 24 may be provided on the substrate 25. Further, as shown in fig. 33, each shape changing member 21 is allowed to be connected to the base plate 25.

Above, the second embodiment of the present disclosure has been described.

<3. third embodiment >

Hereinafter, a third embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[3.1. configuration example of optical communication connector ]

Next, a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure is described. In the first embodiment of the present disclosure, mainly described is an example in which the alignment of the optical fiber 23 and the lens 162 is controlled. In the third embodiment of the present invention, a case where the optical communication connector is also applied to a PC type connector (e.g., an MT (mechanically transferable) connector or the like) is mainly described. Other configurations are similar between the first embodiment of the present disclosure and the third embodiment of the present disclosure. That is, it also allows control of the alignment of the optical fiber 23 and the optical fiber 23 by a method similar to the alignment of the optical fiber 23 and the lens 162.

Fig. 34 shows a configuration example of an optical communication connector according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to fig. 34, in the third embodiment of the present disclosure, one optical communication connector 19 includes a ferrule 170 (first ferrule), and the optical fiber 23 (first optical fiber) is fixed to the ferrule 170 (first ferrule). The other optical communication connector 19 includes a ferrule 170 (second ferrule), and the optical fiber 23 (second optical fiber) is fixed to the ferrule 170 (second ferrule).

As in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure controls the alignment of the ferrule 170 (second ferrule) and the ferrule 170 (second ferrule) by changing the shape of each shape changing member 21 (on the other optical fiber 23 side) based on the communication quality of light incident to the other optical fiber 23 (first optical fiber) via the one optical fiber 23 (second optical fiber).

Above, the third embodiment of the present disclosure has been described.

<4. modified example >

The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Those skilled in the art can find various changes and modifications within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims, and it should be understood that they naturally belong to the technical scope of the present disclosure.

For example, in the foregoing, an optical communication connector including the ferrule 170 and the lens 162 has been mainly described. Further, an example in which the alignment of the ferrule 170 and the lens 162 is controlled by the control unit 42 is mainly described. However, the alignment technique according to each embodiment of the present disclosure is also applicable to other connectors other than the optical communication connector. The alignment technique according to each embodiment of the present disclosure is also applicable to an optical communication device. That is, the control unit 42 can also provide an optical communication device that changes the shape of the shape changing member 21 based on the communication quality of the light incident to the optical fiber 23 via the lens 162 to control the alignment.

Further, the ferrule 170 may be configured to include a member (e.g., resin, glass, etc.) that transmits light. Alternatively, where light of a wavelength that is transmitted through silicon is used, ferrule 170 may be configured to include a silicon material such as MEMS. Similarly, the glazed light transmissive member 160 may be configured to include a member that transmits light, or may be configured to include a silicon material such as MEMS if light at a wavelength that transmits silicon is used.

As described above, the technique according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is particularly suitable for the single mode. However, the techniques according to embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to a single mode, and may also be applied to multiple modes. Further, the numerical aperture (NA: numerical aperture) of the optical fiber may differ according to the optical fiber, but the technique according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the optical fiber of a specific numerical aperture and is applicable to an optical fiber having any numerical aperture.

Further, it is generally assumed that the power distribution of light output from the optical fiber (or output from the optical device) is a gaussian distribution, but the technique according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the gaussian distribution and is applicable to a light source having a non-uniform power intensity distribution.

Further, by using the technique according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, by vibrating the optical fiber every time the optical communication connector is fitted or every predetermined time, it is also possible to drop unnecessary substances or dust from the optical axis of the optical fiber, thereby improving the communication quality.

In the above, the modification is described.

<5. conclusion >

As described above, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an optical communication connector including a control unit. The control unit controls the alignment of the ferrule and the lens. The ferrule is used to secure the optical fiber. The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on the communication quality of the light incident to the optical fiber via the lens to control the alignment. With this configuration, deterioration of communication quality using the optical fiber can be suppressed.

For example, as described above, in the case of using the single mode, the cost tends to increase as compared with the case of using the multi mode. Therefore, particularly in the case of using a single mode, it is necessary to provide a technique of performing alignment of the optical axis of the optical fiber with high accuracy while suppressing an increase in cost. According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, alignment of the optical axis of the optical fiber can be performed with high accuracy while suppressing an increase in cost.

Further, the effects described herein are merely illustrative and exemplary, and not restrictive. That is, other effects that are apparent to those skilled in the art from the description of the present specification may be achieved by the technique according to the present disclosure, with or instead of the above-described effects.

Note that the following configuration also belongs to the technical scope of the present disclosure.

(1)

An optical communication connector includes

A control unit for controlling alignment of a ferrule for fixing the optical fiber and the lens, wherein

The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on a communication quality of light incident to the optical fiber via the lens to control the alignment.

(2)

The optical communication connector according to (1), wherein

The shape change member includes a piezoelectric element, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member by changing the voltage applied to the piezoelectric element.

(3)

The optical communication connector according to (1) or (2), wherein the control unit determines whether or not sensor data satisfies a predetermined condition, and controls the alignment in a case where the sensor data satisfies the predetermined condition.

(4)

The optical communication connector according to (3), wherein the control unit determines whether the sensor data satisfies the predetermined condition for each of a plurality of directions, and controls the alignment in a direction corresponding to the direction satisfying the predetermined condition.

(5)

The optical communication connector according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the communication quality includes at least any one of an absolute value of power of light incident on the optical fiber and the number of errors occurring in the light.

(6)

The optical communication connector according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the control unit determines a maximum communication quality among communication qualities respectively corresponding to a plurality of positional relationships between the ferrule and the lens, and controls the alignment according to the positional relationship corresponding to the maximum communication quality.

(7)

The optical communication connector according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein

The shape changing member is coupled to a face of the ferrule parallel to an axial direction of the optical fiber, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member to control alignment of the ferrule in a direction orthogonal to an axial direction of the optical fiber.

(8)

The optical communication connector according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein

The shape changing member is coupled to a face of the ferrule orthogonal to an axial direction of the optical fiber, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member to control the alignment of the ferrule in the axial direction of the optical fiber.

(9)

The optical communication connector according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein

The shape changing member is coupled to a face of the ferrule parallel to an axial direction of the optical fiber, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member to control alignment of the ferrule in a rotational direction of an axis of the optical fiber or in a rotational direction of a direction orthogonal to the axis of the optical fiber.

(10)

The optical communication connector according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein

The control unit controls alignment of the ferrule for fixing the plurality of optical fibers and the lens array including lenses respectively corresponding to the plurality of optical fibers, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on communication quality of light incident to the plurality of optical fibers via the lens array to control the alignment.

(11)

The optical communication connector according to (10), wherein

The shape changing member is coupled to a face of the ferrule parallel to an axial direction of the plurality of optical fibers, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member to control alignment of the ferrule with respect to a rotational direction of a central axis of the plurality of optical fibers.

(12)

The optical communication connector according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein an elastic body is coupled to at least any one of the ferrule and the lens.

(13)

The optical communication connector according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein

Disposing a light transmissive shape change material between the lens and the optical fiber, the light transmissive shape change material being coupled to the shape change member, and

the control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member and the shape of the light transmissive shape changing material to change a path of light, thereby controlling the alignment.

(14)

The optical communication connector according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein

Disposing a light transmissive shape change material between the lens and the optical fiber, the light transmissive shape change material being coupled to the shape change member, and

the control unit scatters light from the optical fiber in a case where the optical communication connector is not fitted with another connector, and changes the shape of the shape changing member and the shape of the light-transmissive shape changing material in a case where the optical communication connector is fitted with another connector to change a path of the light, thereby shaping the light from the optical fiber.

(15)

A control method, comprising:

a processor controls the alignment of a ferrule and a lens, the ferrule being used to secure an optical fiber; and

the processor varies a shape of the shape varying member based on a communication quality of light incident to the optical fiber via the lens, thereby controlling the alignment.

(16)

An optical communication connector includes

A control unit for controlling the alignment of the optical element and the lens, wherein

The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on the communication quality of the light reaching the optical element via the lens to control the alignment.

(17)

A control method, comprising:

the processor controls the alignment of the optical element and the lens; and

the processor varies a shape of a shape varying member to control the alignment based on a communication quality of light reaching the optical element via the lens.

(18)

An optical communication connector includes

A control unit for controlling the alignment of a first ferrule for holding a first optical fiber and a second ferrule for holding a second optical fiber, wherein

The control unit changes the shape of the shape changing member based on a communication quality of light incident to the first optical fiber via the second optical fiber to control the alignment.

(19)

A control method, comprising:

a processor controls alignment of a first ferrule for securing a first optical fiber and a second ferrule for securing a second optical fiber; and

the processor varies a shape of the shape varying member based on a communication quality of light incident to the first optical fiber via the second optical fiber to control the alignment.

(20)

An optical communication device comprises

A control unit for controlling alignment of a ferrule for fixing the optical fiber and the lens, wherein

The control unit changes a shape of the shape changing member based on a communication quality of light incident to the optical fiber via the lens to control the alignment.

Description of the reference numerals

1 to 8, 10 to 16, 18 and 19 optical communication connectors

21 shape changing member

22 core

23 optical fiber

24 optical element

25 base plate

30 light transmitting material

31 light transmissive shape change material

41 Power monitor

42 control unit

50 connector outer part

51 elastomer

52 base

53 leaf spring

110 optically transmissive element

160 light transmission element

162 lens

163-1 recess

163-2 projection

170 ferrule

171 hole

172 optical fiber fixing agent

173 ferrule

174 mirror