JP5328533B2 - Optical connector - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical connector, and more particularly to an optical connector that holds a planar optical waveguide.

  In recent years, with the expansion of transmission capacity, optical communication networks have attracted attention, and optical fiber communication networks are rapidly developing. The role played by optical connectors in optical fiber communication networks is extremely important, and various optical connectors have been developed.

In addition, with the rapid development of multimedia, high-density wiring is becoming an indispensable item in information processing apparatuses such as large-capacity switches and massively parallel computers, and research on optical interconnection technology is being conducted extensively. For example, as an example of an optical connector for connecting an optical fiber tape or the like provided with a multi-core optical fiber, an MT connector, an MPO connector or the like defined by the JIS standard is known.

  The MT connector is fixed to an MT ferrule, which is an optical ferrule, and optical fibers exposed from optical fiber holes provided on the connection end face of the MT ferrule are arranged to face each other, and both MT ferrules are connected via two guide pins. In other words, it is possible to maintain a stable connection by maintaining a constant pressing force. The MPO connector is configured by mounting an MT connector in which a tape fiber is bonded and fixed to an MT ferrule, a connector connection surface is polished, and a spring for applying a pressing force for maintaining the connection state in an MPO housing. . For example, Non-Patent Document 1 describes an MT connector.

Fujikura Technical Report (No. 97, October 1999, published by Fujikura Ltd., “Two-dimensional array type MT connector”, P22-27).

  By the way, in the optical interconnection technology, not only an optical connector in which an optical fiber is held by an optical ferrule, but also an optical connector in which a planar optical waveguide is held by an optical ferrule, for example, is used. An optical connector that holds such a planar optical waveguide is assembled by fitting a planar optical waveguide that has been precisely diced into a rectangular shape into a groove or the like provided in the optical ferrule. Then, the core of the planar optical waveguide is positioned on the optical ferrule with reference to the outer shape of the planar optical waveguide. Here, when the planar optical waveguide is positioned on the optical ferrule based on such an outer shape reference, the accuracy of the core position in the planar optical waveguide is reduced due to the dimensional accuracy in the width direction of the planar optical waveguide by dicing. there's a possibility that.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an optical connector in which the accuracy of the core position in the planar optical waveguide is further improved.

An optical connector according to the present invention is an optical connector for holding a planar optical waveguide having a plurality of cores arranged in parallel and a clad surrounding the plurality of cores, and a connector main body formed of a synthetic resin A convex protrusion provided on the connector main body, and a fitting convex portion for fitting the planar optical waveguide to be positioned on the connector main body, and a concave adjacent to the planar optical waveguide in the plurality of cores. provided cladding between the core, have a, a fitting recess fitted with the fitting protrusion, the connector body is provided on the rear end surface of the connector body, inserting the planar optical waveguide An optical waveguide insertion port; provided in the connector main body; communicated with the optical waveguide insertion port; inserted into the planar optical waveguide; and provided at a front end surface of the connector main body; An optical waveguide exposed portion that communicates with a path and exposes a tip of the planar optical waveguide; and a guide hole into which a guide pin that guides and positions the connector main body is inserted, and the fitting convex portion includes: The optical waveguide exposed portion is provided so as to partition each core along the core row direction of the planar optical waveguide from one end to the other end and to expose each core, and from the passage bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion path to the plane A fitting projection formed to project in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the optical waveguide, and to fit the planar optical waveguide and position the connector on the connector body. Provided in each cladding between adjacent cores on the front end face of the waveguide, and in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide in the cladding between adjacent cores in the plurality of cores Is formed in a groove shape, made from the fitting groove to be fitted with the fitting projection,
The fitting protrusion is formed with a height substantially the same as the thickness of the planar optical waveguide, and is formed with a depth substantially the same as the depth of the fitting groove .

  In the optical connector according to the present invention, the planar optical waveguide is a planar optical waveguide in which a plurality of planar optical waveguide layers having a plurality of cores arranged in parallel and a clad surrounding the plurality of cores are stacked. A laminate is preferred.

  In the optical connector according to the present invention, the connector main body is provided on a rear end surface of the connector main body, an optical waveguide insertion port for inserting the planar optical waveguide, and an optical waveguide insertion port provided in the connector main body. An optical waveguide insertion passage through which the planar optical waveguide is inserted, and an optical waveguide exposure port provided at a front end surface of the connector main body, communicating with the optical waveguide insertion passage and exposing the tip of the planar optical waveguide And the fitting convex portion is provided on the passage bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion passage, is formed along the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide from the optical waveguide exposure port, and the planar optical waveguide is It comprises a fitting ridge that fits and positions on the connector body, and the fitting recess is provided in the planar optical waveguide, and the flat between the clads between adjacent cores in the plurality of cores. Is formed in a groove shape along the front end surface of the mold optical waveguide in the optical axis direction, it is preferably made of a mating concave fitted to the fitting projections.

  The optical connector according to the present invention is the above-described optical connector that is disposed to face the optical element of the optical element component provided with the optical element and is optically coupled to the optical element, wherein the connector body includes the connector An optical waveguide insertion groove that is provided in a groove shape in the main body and passes through the planar optical waveguide, and is provided on the front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove so as to face the optical element. An optical path changing surface that is formed to be inclined with respect to an extension in the axial direction and that optically couples between the planar optical waveguide and the optical element by changing the optical axis direction by reflection of signal light. The fitting convex portion is provided on the groove bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove so as to face the optical path changing surface, and is substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide from the groove bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove. The planar light is formed to protrude in the direction The fitting recess includes a fitting protrusion that fits a waveguide and positions the connector body, and the fitting recess is provided on a distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide, and the planar surface is formed on a clad between adjacent cores of the plurality of cores. It is preferable that the groove is formed in a groove shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis direction of the optical waveguide and is fitted with the fitting protrusion.

  The optical connector according to the present invention is the above-described optical connector that is disposed to face the optical element of the optical element component provided with the optical element and is optically coupled to the optical element, wherein the connector body includes the connector An optical waveguide insertion groove that is provided in a groove shape in the main body and passes through the planar optical waveguide, and is provided on the front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove so as to face the optical element. An optical path changing surface that is formed to be inclined with respect to an extension in the axial direction and that optically couples between the planar optical waveguide and the optical element by changing the optical axis direction by reflection of signal light. The fitting convex portion is provided on the bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion passage, is formed along the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide from the surface edge of the optical path changing surface, and fits the planar optical waveguide To fit the connector body The fitting recess is provided in the planar optical waveguide, and is formed in a groove shape along the optical axis direction from the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide to the clad between adjacent cores in the plurality of cores. Preferably, it is formed of a fitting groove that is formed and fitted with the fitting protrusion.

  The optical connector according to the present invention is the optical connector according to claim 1, wherein the optical connector is disposed so as to face the optical element of the optical element component provided with the optical element, and is optically coupled to the optical element. The connector main body is provided in a groove shape in the connector main body, includes an optical waveguide insertion groove for inserting the planar optical waveguide, and the fitting convex portion is provided in a front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove, It is formed to project from the groove bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove in a direction substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide, and includes a fitting projection that fits the planar optical waveguide and positions the connector main body. The planar optical waveguide is provided in the vicinity of a front end surface of the planar optical waveguide so as to face the optical element, and is formed to be inclined with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide. Due to internal reflection of signal light An optical path changing surface that is optically coupled between the planar optical waveguide and the optical element, and the fitting recess is provided at a distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide and adjacent to the plurality of cores It is preferable that the clad between the cores includes a fitting groove that is formed in a groove shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide and is fitted with the fitting protrusion.

  The optical connector according to the present invention is the above-described optical connector that is disposed to face the optical element of the optical element component provided with the optical element and is optically coupled to the optical element, wherein the connector body includes the connector A groove formed in the main body, including an optical waveguide insertion groove through which the planar optical waveguide is inserted; and the fitting convex portion is provided on a groove bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove, and is a front groove of the optical waveguide insertion groove The planar optical waveguide is formed along the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide from a wall, and includes a fitting protrusion that fits the planar optical waveguide and positions the connector on the connector body. Provided in the vicinity of the optical element in the vicinity of the front end surface of the waveguide, formed to be inclined with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide, and the optical axis direction is changed by internal reflection of the signal light. Planar optical waveguide and the light An optical path changing surface that optically couples with the optical element, and the fitting recess is provided along the optical axis direction from the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide, and the clad between adjacent cores in the plurality of cores It is preferable that the groove is formed of a fitting groove that is fitted with the fitting protrusion.

  The optical connector according to the present invention is the above-described optical connector that is disposed to face the optical element of the optical element component provided with the optical element and is optically coupled to the optical element, wherein the connector body includes the connector An optical waveguide provided in the main body in a groove shape and inserted through the planar optical waveguide, and an optical waveguide provided in the connector main body, communicated with the optical waveguide insertion groove, and inserted at the tip of the planar optical waveguide A waveguide insertion hole, provided in the connector main body, communicated with the optical waveguide insertion hole, and a recess formed in a concave shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide; The planar optical waveguide is provided so as to face the optical element, is inclined with respect to an extension of the planar optical waveguide in the optical axis direction, and the optical axis direction is changed by reflection of signal light. Between the optical elements An optical path changing surface to be coupled, and the fitting convex portion is provided in the optical waveguide insertion hole so as to face the optical path changing surface, and protrudes in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide. And is formed of a fitting projection for fitting the planar optical waveguide and positioning the connector main body, and the fitting recess is provided on a front end surface of the planar optical waveguide and adjacent to the plurality of cores Preferably, the clad between the cores includes a fitting groove that is formed in a groove shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide and is fitted to the fitting protrusion.

  The optical connector according to the present invention is the optical connector according to claim 1, wherein the optical connector is disposed so as to face the optical element of the optical element component provided with the optical element, and is optically coupled to the optical element. The connector main body is provided in the connector main body in a groove shape, and is inserted into the optical waveguide insertion groove through which the planar optical waveguide is inserted. The connector main body is provided in the connector main body and communicates with the optical waveguide insertion groove. An optical waveguide insertion hole for inserting a distal end portion, a recess provided in the connector body, communicating with the optical waveguide insertion hole, and formed in a concave shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide; The fitting convex portion is provided in the optical waveguide insertion hole, is formed to project in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide, and fits the planar optical waveguide. Positioned on the connector body The planar optical waveguide is disposed with the tip of the planar optical waveguide protruding into the recess, and is opposed to the optical element at the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide. Provided and inclined with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide, and the optical axis direction is changed by internal reflection of signal light to optically couple the planar optical waveguide and the optical element. The fitting recess is provided on a front end surface of the planar optical waveguide, and the clad between adjacent cores in the plurality of cores is substantially in the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide. It is preferably formed of a fitting groove that is formed in a groove shape in the orthogonal direction and fitted with the fitting protrusion.

  In the optical connector according to the present invention, the optical element component has a guide pin or a guide hole for positioning the connector main body to the optical element component, and the connector main body is inserted with the guide pin of the optical element component. It is preferable to have a guide pin inserted into the guide hole or the guide hole of the optical element component.

  In the optical connector according to the present invention, the planar optical waveguide is preferably a polymer planar optical waveguide formed of synthetic resin or a quartz glass planar optical waveguide formed of quartz glass.

  According to the optical connector having the above configuration, the planar optical waveguide is provided with a fitting groove or a fitting groove provided in the planar optical waveguide in the connector body, and the planar optical waveguide is fitted into the connector body. Since the positioning is performed by fitting with the fitting protrusion or the fitting protrusion to be positioned, the accuracy of the core position in the planar optical waveguide can be further improved.

In 1st Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of an optical connector. In 1st Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of a connector main body. In 1st Embodiment of this invention, it is sectional drawing which shows the structure of a connector main body. 1 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a planar optical waveguide in a first embodiment of the present invention. In 1st Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of the other connector main body. In 1st Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of another connector main body. In 1st Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of another connector main body. In 1st Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of an optical connector. In 2nd Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of an optical connector. In 2nd Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of a connector main body. In 2nd Embodiment of this invention, it is sectional drawing which shows the structure of a connector main body. In 2nd Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of a planar optical waveguide. In 3rd Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of an optical connector. In 3rd Embodiment of this invention, it is an enlarged view of the principal part in an optical connector. In 3rd Embodiment of this invention, it is sectional drawing which shows the structure of a connector main body. In 3rd Embodiment of this invention, it is sectional drawing of the optical waveguide penetration direction which shows the state which attached the optical connector to the optical module. In 4th Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of an optical connector. In 4th Embodiment of this invention, it is an enlarged view of the principal part in an optical connector. In 4th Embodiment of this invention, it is sectional drawing which shows the structure of a connector main body. In 5th Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of an optical connector. In 5th Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of a planar optical waveguide. In 5th Embodiment of this invention, it is a cross-sectional perspective view of the principal part in an optical connector. In 5th Embodiment of this invention, it is sectional drawing of the optical waveguide penetration direction which shows the state which attached the optical connector to the optical module. In 6th Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of an optical connector. In 6th Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of a planar optical waveguide. In 6th Embodiment of this invention, it is a cross-sectional perspective view of the principal part in an optical connector. In 7th Embodiment of this invention, it is a perspective view which shows the structure of an optical connector. In the 7th Embodiment of this invention, it is an enlarged view which shows the principal part of an optical connector. In 7th Embodiment of this invention, it is sectional drawing of the planar optical waveguide penetration direction in an optical connector. In the 8th Embodiment of this invention, it is an enlarged view which shows the principal part of an optical connector. In the eighth embodiment of the present invention, it is a perspective view showing the configuration of a planar optical waveguide. In 8th Embodiment of this invention, it is sectional drawing of the planar optical waveguide penetration direction in an optical connector.

  A first embodiment according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the optical connector 10. The optical connector 10 includes a connector body 12 that is wide and substantially rectangular, and has a function of holding a planar optical waveguide 14. The connector main body 12 is provided with a flange 16 that is provided on the rear end side of the connector main body 12 and protrudes outward from the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body 12.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the connector body 12. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the connector main body 12, FIG. 3 (a) is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the connector main body 12, and FIG. 3 (b) is a vertical cross-sectional view of the connector main body. It is. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the planar optical waveguide 14.

  The connector body 12 is formed by molding or the like with a synthetic resin having a wide and substantially square shape. The connector body 12 is molded by, for example, transfer molding using a thermosetting resin such as an epoxy resin, injection molding using a thermoplastic resin such as polyphenylene sulfide resin (PPS) or liquid crystal polymer (LCP), or the like.

  The connector main body 12 includes an optical waveguide insertion port 18 into which the planar optical waveguide 14 is inserted, an optical waveguide insertion path 20 through which the planar optical waveguide 14 is inserted, and an optical waveguide exposed portion 22 that exposes the tip of the planar optical waveguide 14. And have.

  The optical waveguide insertion port 18 is provided in the connector main body rear end surface 24 and has a function of inserting the planar optical waveguide 14 into the connector main body 12. The optical waveguide insertion port 18 is provided, for example, in the approximate center of the rear end surface 24 of the connector body, and is formed in a wide, substantially rectangular shape with a size that allows the planar optical waveguide 14 to be inserted. The optical waveguide insertion path 20 is provided in the connector main body 12, communicates with the optical waveguide insertion port 18, and has a function of inserting the planar optical waveguide 14. The optical waveguide exposure part 22 is provided on the front end face 26 of the connector body, communicates with the optical waveguide insertion path 20, and has a function of exposing the tip of the planar optical waveguide 14. The optical waveguide exposed portion 22 is formed with, for example, approximately the same size as the tip surface of the planar optical waveguide 14.

  The connector main body 12 has at least one guide hole 30 into which a guide pin for guiding and positioning the connector main body 12 when a connector is connected to another optical connector. For example, a pair of guide holes 30 are provided in the connector body 12.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the planar optical waveguide 14 includes a plurality of cores 34 arranged in a line in parallel and a clad 36 surrounding the plurality of cores 34, and is formed in a substantially rectangular shape, for example. The planar optical waveguide 14 may be a multimode planar optical waveguide, a single mode planar optical waveguide, or the like. As the planar optical waveguide 14, a flexible polymer planar optical waveguide formed of synthetic resin, a quartz glass planar optical waveguide formed of quartz glass, or the like is used. For example, a planar optical waveguide made of polyimide resin is used as the polymer planar optical waveguide.

  The connector main body 12 is provided in the optical waveguide exposed portion 22 and is formed so as to protrude in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 from the bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion path 20. And a fitting projection 38 for positioning on the connector body 12. The planar optical waveguide 14 is provided on the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14 and is formed in a groove shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 in the cladding 36 of the planar optical waveguide 14. And has a fitting groove 40 fitted to the fitting protrusion 38.

  The fitting protrusion 38 is preferably formed of, for example, a columnar rectangular protrusion protruding in a rectangular shape from the bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion path 20. The fitting projection 38 is formed, for example, at a height substantially the same as the thickness of the planar optical waveguide 14 and is formed with a width smaller than the interval between the adjacent cores 34 in the planar optical waveguide 14. The optical waveguide 14 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape with a depth substantially the same as the depth of the fitting groove 40.

  At least one fitting protrusion 38 is provided on the optical waveguide exposed portion 22. The fitting protrusions 38 are preferably provided at predetermined intervals along the core row direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 from one end to the other end of the optical waveguide exposed portion 22. The optical waveguide exposed portion 22 is partitioned by, for example, a plurality of fitting protrusions 38 arranged in a row in the core row direction of the planar optical waveguide 14, and a plurality of cores 34 of the planar optical waveguide 14 are exposed. A core hole 41 is formed. The fitting protrusion 38 is provided, for example, by being integrally formed with the connector main body 12 with a synthetic resin.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the planar optical waveguide 14 is provided on the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14, and is approximately perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 on the cladding 36 of the planar optical waveguide 14. And has a fitting groove 40 fitted to the fitting protrusion 38. At least one fitting groove 40 is provided in the cladding 36 on the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14. The fitting grooves 40 are respectively provided in the clads 36 between the adjacent cores 34 and penetrated in the thickness direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 from the planar optical waveguide upper surface 42 to the planar optical waveguide lower surface 44. It is preferably formed by a rectangular groove.

  The fitting groove 40 is formed with a groove width narrower than the interval between the adjacent cores 34 of the planar optical waveguide 14 and is provided so as not to contact each core 34 of the planar optical waveguide 14. The fitting groove 40 is formed with substantially the same groove depth as the depth of the fitting protrusion 38. Further, the bottom surface of the fitting groove 40 has a function as a position regulating surface that regulates the position of the planar optical waveguide 14 in the longitudinal direction by contacting the fitting projection 38. The groove side surface functions as a position regulating surface that regulates the position of the planar optical waveguide 14 in the width direction by contacting the fitting protrusion 38. The fitting groove 40 is formed by, for example, dicing or laser processing the tip surface of the planar optical waveguide 14.

  Thus, the fitting protrusion 38 is provided in a convex shape on the connector main body 12 and has a function as a fitting convex portion for fitting the planar optical waveguide 14 and positioning it on the connector main body 12. The groove 40 is provided in a concave shape in the planar optical waveguide 14 and has a function as a fitting recess to be fitted with the fitting projection.

  Next, an assembly method for assembling the optical connector 10 by attaching the planar optical waveguide 14 to the connector body 12 will be described.

  The planar optical waveguide 14 is inserted from the optical waveguide insertion port 18 with the front end surface provided with the fitting groove 40 facing the connector main body 12, and the optical waveguide insertion path 20 until the front end surface reaches the optical waveguide exposed portion 22. It is inserted. The planar optical waveguide 14 is positioned on the connector body 12 by fitting the fitting groove 40 on the distal end surface with the fitting protrusion 38. Therefore, each core 34 of the planar optical waveguide 14 is accurately positioned and exposed from the core hole 41 of the optical waveguide exposed portion 22. After the planar optical waveguide 14 is positioned on the connector body 12, it is fixed to the connector body 12 with an adhesive or the like. Thus, the assembly of the optical connector 10 is completed.

  The connector body is opened from the optical waveguide exposed portion 22 of the connector body front end face 26, communicates with the optical waveguide insertion path 20, and is formed in a concave shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 14. You may comprise so that a recessed part and the cover body which covers a recessed part may be provided. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a configuration of another connector main body 50. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same element and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The recess 52 is opened from the optical waveguide exposed portion 22 of the connector main body 50, communicates with the optical waveguide insertion path 20, and is formed in a concave shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 from the upper surface of the connector main body 50. Is done. By providing the concave portion 52 in the connector main body 50, it is possible to confirm the appearance that the fitting groove 40 of the planar optical waveguide 14 is fitted into the fitting protrusion 38 of the connector main body 50, so that the core position in the planar optical waveguide 14 can be confirmed. The position accuracy can be further improved. In addition, since the adhesive for fixing the planar optical waveguide 14 to the connector body 50 can be filled from the recess 52 of the connector body 50, the planar optical waveguide 14 can be adhered while adjusting the filling amount of the adhesive. it can. Thereby, a polishing process or the like for removing excess adhesive performed after the planar optical waveguide 14 is fixed can be omitted.

  The lid 54 is fitted in the recess 52 of the connector body 50 and has a function of covering the planar optical waveguide 14 and protecting it from dust and the like. The lid 54 is formed in a size that can be inserted into the recess 52, and is formed in a rectangular shape with a synthetic resin such as an epoxy resin. The lid 54 is fitted into the recess 52 with the lower surface of the lid abutting against the upper end surface of the fitting projection 38.

  The connector main body may be configured with the front end surface provided with the fitting protrusion 38 as a separate body. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the configuration of another connector main body 60. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same element and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The connector main body 60 includes a first main body portion 62 that holds the planar optical waveguide 14, and a second main body portion 64 that is attached to the front end surface of the first main body portion 62 and includes the optical waveguide exposed portion 22. .

  The first main body 62 includes an optical waveguide insertion opening 18 provided on the rear end surface of the first main body 62 and an optical waveguide insertion passage 20 communicating with the optical waveguide insertion opening 18. The first main body portion 62 is provided on the front end surface 66 of the first main body portion 62, communicates with the optical waveguide insertion passage 20, and has an optical waveguide protrusion 68 that protrudes the tip portion of the planar optical waveguide 14. ing. Further, the first main body 62 is provided with a pair of guide holes 30 for inserting guide pins.

  The second main body portion 64 is attached to the first main body portion 62 in contact with the front end surface of the first main body portion 62. The second main body portion 64 includes an optical waveguide exposing portion 22 into which the distal end portion of the planar optical waveguide 14 is inserted and the distal end of the planar optical waveguide 14 is exposed. The optical waveguide exposed portion 22 is provided with a plurality of fitting projections 38 for positioning the core position of the planar optical waveguide 14. Further, the optical waveguide exposed portion 22 is provided with a plurality of core holes 41 that are formed by being partitioned by the fitting protrusions 38 and from which the cores of the planar optical waveguide 14 are exposed. The second main body portion 64 is provided with a pair of guide holes 30 a into which guide pins are inserted on both sides of the optical waveguide exposed portion 22. The first main body 62 and the second main body 64 are preferably formed of the same synthetic resin such as an epoxy resin.

  The planar optical waveguide 14 is attached to the first main body 62 with the distal end of the planar optical waveguide 14 projecting from the optical waveguide projection 68. Next, the fitting protrusion 38 provided in the optical waveguide exposed portion 22 of the second main body portion 64 is fitted into the fitting groove 40 provided in the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14 so that the second main body portion 64 is attached. It is attached to the first main body 62. Thereby, the planar optical waveguide 14 is mounted on the connector main body 60 with further improved accuracy of the core position of the planar optical waveguide 14. By forming the second main body portion 64 having the fitting protrusion 38 separately from the first main body portion 62, for example, for the first main body portion having the same shape and the optical waveguide protrusion 68 having a different outer shape. The second main body portion 64 having the same shape can be attached.

  The second main body 64 is formed of an optical resin such as a transparent resin, and a condensing lens that collects signal light transmitted through the planar optical waveguide 14 on the optical waveguide exposed portion 22 or for a PC (Physical Contact). Convex curved protrusions such as protrusions may be provided. FIG. 7 is a vertical cross-sectional view of an optical connector 60a in which convex curved protrusions are provided on the exposed portion of the optical waveguide.

  The optical connector 60a includes a first main body portion 62 formed of an epoxy resin or the like, and a second main body portion 64a formed of an optical resin. A convex curved projection 69 made of optical resin is provided on the optical waveguide exposed portion 22 of the second main body portion 64a. The convex curved protrusion 69 is preferably formed integrally with the second main body portion 64a. The convex curved projection 69 is provided in each core hole 41 formed by being partitioned by each fitting projection 38. When a condensing lens is provided on the optical waveguide exposed portion 22, the convex curved projection 69 is formed by a convex lens, for example, and collects signal light transmitted through the planar optical waveguide 14 and emits it from the convex curved projection 69. can do. Further, when the PC waveguide projection is provided on the optical waveguide exposed portion 22, the convex curved projection 69 is formed by, for example, a convex spherical projection, and the convex curved projection 69 is elastically deformed to directly contact another planar optical waveguide. By doing so, it is possible to suppress the reflection of the signal light and connect to another optical connector.

  Further, a planar optical waveguide laminate configured by laminating a plurality of planar optical waveguide layers such as two layers may be used for the planar optical waveguide attached to the optical connector. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the optical connector 70. The optical connector 70 is configured by mounting a planar optical waveguide laminate 72 on a connector main body 74.

  The planar optical waveguide laminate 72 is configured, for example, by laminating two planar optical waveguide layers composed of the planar optical waveguide 14 shown in FIG. 4 in the thickness direction. The planar optical waveguide laminate 72 is formed by laminating so that the fitting grooves 40 of the planar optical waveguide layers coincide with each other. The fitting groove of the planar optical waveguide laminate 72 is provided in a groove shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide laminate 72, and the planar optical waveguide laminate is formed from the upper surface of the planar optical waveguide laminate. It is formed by a rectangular groove that penetrates in the thickness direction of the planar optical waveguide laminate 72 to the lower surface of the body.

  The connector main body 74 has an optical waveguide exposed portion 22a that is provided on the front end surface of the connector main body 74 and is formed to have a size that allows the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide laminate 72 to be exposed. The optical waveguide exposed portion 22 a has at least one fitting protrusion 38 a that is fitted into the fitting groove of the planar optical waveguide laminate 72 and positions the planar optical waveguide laminate 72 to the connector main body 74. The fitting protrusions 38 a are preferably provided on the clads 36 between the cores 34 adjacent to each other in the core row direction of the planar optical waveguide laminate 72. The fitting protrusion 38 a is formed with a height substantially the same as the thickness of the planar optical waveguide laminate 72. For example, the height of the fitting protrusion 38a is approximately twice the height of the fitting protrusion 38 shown in FIG. Further, the optical waveguide exposed portion 22a is provided with at least one core hole 41a formed by being partitioned by the fitting protrusions 38a and exposing each core of the planar optical waveguide laminate 72.

  The planar optical waveguide laminate 72 is positioned on the connector body 74 by fitting the fitting groove of the planar optical waveguide laminate 72 to the fitting projection 38 a of the connector body 74. The Thereby, the two-dimensional array type optical connector 70 in which the position accuracy of the core position in the planar optical waveguide laminate 72 is further improved is assembled. In the optical connector 70 described above, the planar optical waveguide laminate 72 formed by laminating two layers has been described. However, the planar optical waveguide laminate 72 is not limited to two layers, but has three layers. Etc. may be composed of a plurality of layers.

  Next, a second embodiment according to the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the optical connector 80. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the connector main body 82. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the connector main body 82, FIG. 11 (a) is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the connector main body 82, and FIG. 11 (b) is a vertical cross-section of the connector main body 82. FIG. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the planar optical waveguide 84. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same element and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The optical connector 80 includes a connector body 82 that is wide and substantially square and formed of a synthetic resin such as an epoxy resin. The connector main body 82 is provided on the rear end face 86 of the connector main body, and is provided in the optical waveguide insertion slot 18 into which the flat optical waveguide 84 is inserted. The connector main body 82 is provided in the connector main body 82 and communicates with the optical waveguide insertion opening 18. And an optical waveguide exposure port 90 that is provided on the front end surface 88 of the connector main body, communicates with the optical waveguide insertion path 20, and exposes the tip of the planar optical waveguide 84. The optical waveguide exposure opening 90 is formed to have substantially the same size as the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 84.

  The connector main body 82 has at least one guide hole 30 into which a guide pin for guiding and positioning the connector main body 82 when a connector is connected to another optical connector or the like. For example, a pair of guide holes 30 are provided in the connector main body 82.

  The connector body 82 is provided on the bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion path 20 and is formed to protrude from the optical waveguide exposure opening 90 along the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 84. The main body 82 has a fitting protrusion 92 for positioning. The fitting protrusion 92 is formed so as to protrude in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 84.

  The fitting ridge 92 is a ridge-shaped protrusion which is a protrusion formed in a ridge shape such as a substantially triangular shape in a section substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 84, or a substantially arc-shaped R-shape. It is preferable to be formed by arcuate protrusions that are protrusions formed in a shape. Of course, the fitting ridge 92 is not limited to a chevron projection or an arc projection.

  At least one fitting protrusion 92 is provided on the bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion path 20. It is preferable that a plurality of fitting protrusions 92 are provided at a predetermined interval from one passage side wall to the other passage side wall in the optical waveguide insertion path 20 and are formed along the core row direction of the planar optical waveguide 84. The fitting protrusion 92 is formed with a height smaller than the thickness of the planar optical waveguide 84, for example, and is formed with a width smaller than the interval between the adjacent cores 34 in the planar optical waveguide 84. The fitting protrusions 92 are provided, for example, by being integrally formed with the connector main body 82 with a synthetic resin.

  The planar optical waveguide 84 has a fitting groove 96 that is formed in a groove shape along the optical axis direction from the front end surface of the clad 36 of the planar optical waveguide 84 and is fitted to the fitting protrusion 92. Yes. At least one fitting groove 96 is provided on the lower surface 94 of the planar optical waveguide with a predetermined length from the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 84 along the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 84. The fitting recesses 96 are respectively formed in the cladding 36 between the adjacent cores 34 with a predetermined length from the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 84 along the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 84. It is preferred that The length in the longitudinal direction of the fitting concave strip 96 is preferably substantially the same as the length in the longitudinal direction of the fitting convex strip 92.

  The fitting recess 96 is preferably formed by a substantially triangular V-shaped groove or an arc-shaped groove having a substantially orthogonal cross section in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 84. For example, when the fitting ridge 92 of the connector main body 82 is formed with an angled projection, the fitting ridge 96 of the planar optical waveguide 84 is formed with a V-groove, and the fitting ridge 92 of the connector main body 82 is formed. Is formed by an arc-shaped protrusion, the fitting recess 96 of the planar optical waveguide 84 is formed by an arc-shaped groove. Of course, the fitting groove 96 is not limited to a V-groove, a circular arc groove or the like. Further, the inner peripheral surface of the fitting recess 96 has a function as a position restricting surface that restricts the position of the planar optical waveguide 84 in the width direction by contacting the fitting protrusion 92.

  The planar optical waveguide 84 is positioned on the connector main body 82 by fitting a fitting concave 96 provided on the lower surface 94 of the planar optical waveguide to the fitting convex 92 of the connector main body 82. Thereby, the position accuracy of the core position in the planar optical waveguide 84 can be further improved. Thus, the fitting protrusion 92 is provided in a convex shape on the connector body 82, and has a function as a fitting protrusion for fitting the planar optical waveguide 84 and positioning it on the connector body 82. The joint recess 96 is provided in a concave shape in the planar optical waveguide 84 and has a function as a fitting recess to be fitted with the fitting projection.

  Next, a third embodiment according to the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the optical connector 100. FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of a main part of the optical connector 100. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the optical connector 100 in the planar optical waveguide insertion direction. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the planar optical waveguide insertion direction showing a state in which the optical connector 100 is attached to the optical module 101. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same element and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The optical connector 100 is disposed to face the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 having a function as an optical element component, and has a function of optically coupling between the planar optical waveguide 14 and the optical element 102. The optical element 102 includes a light emitting element or a light receiving element, and has a function as an optical input / output end of the optical module 101. A surface emitting element type laser diode (VCSEL) is used as the light emitting element, and a photodiode (PD: Photo Diode) is used as the light receiving element.

  The optical connector 100 includes a connector body 103 that is wide and is substantially square and formed of a synthetic resin such as an epoxy resin. The connector main body 103 is provided in a groove shape from the rear end surface of the connector main body 103 to a substantially center, and is provided in the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 for inserting the planar optical waveguide 14 and the front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove 104. And an optical path changing surface 106 which is formed to be inclined with respect to the extension of the optical waveguide 14 in the optical axis direction and changes the optical axis direction of the signal light propagating through the planar optical waveguide 14 by reflection.

  The optical waveguide insertion groove 104 is provided so as to be inserted through the planar optical waveguide 14, is formed with a groove width larger than the width of the planar optical waveguide 14, and has a groove depth deeper than the thickness of the planar optical waveguide 14. It is formed. A translucent member attaching portion 110 that attaches a sheet-like translucent member 108 to be described later in contact is provided on the periphery of the optical waveguide insertion groove 104.

  The optical path changing surface 106 is provided on the front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 so as to face the optical element 102, and is opposed to the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14 to extend in the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 14. It is inclined upward and has a function of optically coupling between the planar optical waveguide 14 and the optical element 102 by changing the optical axis direction of the signal light propagating through the planar optical waveguide 14 by reflection. . For example, the optical path changing surface 106 is formed to be inclined so as to spread from the groove bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 to the front end surface side of the connector main body 103. The optical path changing surface 106 is constituted by, for example, a reflection mirror that is formed by metal vapor deposition on an inclined surface.

  The optical path changing surface 106 is preferably formed with an inclination of approximately 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 14. Accordingly, when the optical connector 100 is installed in the optical module 101, the optical connector 100 is positioned above the optical element 102 provided in the optical module 101 so as to face the light emitting surface or the light receiving surface of the optical element 102. The signal light emitted from the front end surface of the optical element 102 can be bent by approximately 90 degrees and incident on the optical element 102, and the signal light emitted from the optical element 102 can be bent by approximately 90 degrees to form the planar optical waveguide 14. It can be made incident.

  The tilt angle of the optical path changing surface 106 is preferably approximately 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 14, but is not necessarily limited to approximately 45 degrees. The optical path changing surface 106 can reflect such that the signal light emitted from the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14 enters the optical element 102, and the signal light emitted from the optical element 102 can be reflected by the planar optical waveguide 14. It is formed at an inclination angle that allows reflection to be incident on the light.

  The optical path changing surface 106 preferably has a concave mirror surface that collects the signal light emitted from the planar optical waveguide 14. The concave mirror surface is formed on the extension of the planar optical waveguide 14 in the optical axis direction, condenses the signal light emitted from the planar optical waveguide 14 so as to be correctly focused on the optical element 102, and from the optical element 102. The signal light can be condensed so that the emitted signal light is correctly focused on the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14. Since the diffusion of the signal light can be suppressed by condensing the signal light, the optical coupling efficiency between the planar optical waveguide 14 and the optical element 102 can be improved. The concave mirror surface is formed of an aspherical surface such as a spherical surface or a parabolic surface (parabolic surface), for example. A plurality of concave mirror surfaces are preferably provided on the optical path changing surface 106 for each core 34 of the planar optical waveguide 14.

  The translucent member 108 is formed into a sheet shape with optical resin, optical glass, or the like, covers the optical path changing surface 106, and is attached to the translucent member attaching portion 110. The translucent member 108 is preferably formed of an optical resin that efficiently transmits light having a signal wavelength to be used (for example, 850 nm, 1310 nm, 1550 nm, etc.). As the optical resin, PC (polycarbonate resin), PEI (polyetherimide resin), PPA (polyphthalamide resin), or the like can be used. The signal light emitted from the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14 and reflected by the optical path changing surface 106 passes through the light transmitting member 108 and enters the optical element 102. The signal light emitted from the optical element 102 passes through the light transmitting member 108, is reflected by the optical path changing surface 106, and enters the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14.

  The translucent member light incident / exit surface 109 through which signal light enters and exits the translucent member 108 is preferably provided with concave and convex portions that are arranged in an irregular manner with a period smaller than the signal wavelength of the signal light. As is well known, by forming fine uneven portions arranged in an uneven shape with a period smaller than the signal wavelength of the signal light on the light transmitting member light incident / exit surface 109, the signal light on the light transmitting member light incident / exit surface 109 is formed. Can be made non-reflective. The fine uneven portion can be directly formed on the light incident / exit surface 109 of the translucent member using, for example, a precise mold.

  Further, by providing an antireflection film on the light transmissive member light incident / exit surface 109, reflection of signal light on the light transmissive member light incident / exit surface 109 may be prevented. The antireflection film is formed, for example, by applying a dielectric material to the light incident / exiting surface 109 of the translucent member, vacuum deposition or sputtering. Furthermore, by providing the light attenuating film on the light incident / exiting surface 109 of the translucent member, the light intensity of the signal light can be lowered, and thus the safety of the eyes can be further improved. The light attenuation film is formed, for example, by sputtering a metal material or the like.

  The connector main body 103 has at least one guide hole 112 into which a guide pin for positioning the connector main body 103 to the optical module 101 is inserted. For example, by inserting a guide pin provided protruding from the optical module 101 into the guide hole 112 and attaching the connector main body 103, the connector main body 103 can be positioned accurately facing the optical element 102 of the optical module 101. For example, a pair of guide holes 112 are provided in the vicinity of the optical path changing surface 106 with the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 interposed therebetween. The optical connector 100 is guided by a guide pin, and is attached to the optical module 101 so that the optical path changing surface 106 faces the optical element 102 of the optical module 101. The optical module 101 may be provided with a guide hole for positioning the connector main body 103, and the connector main body 103 may be provided with a guide pin inserted into the guide hole of the optical module 101.

  The connector body 103 is provided on the groove bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 so as to face the optical path changing surface 106, and protrudes from the groove bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 14. And has a fitting projection 114 for fitting the planar optical waveguide 14 to the connector main body 103 for positioning. The planar optical waveguide 14 is provided on the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14 and is formed in a groove shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 in the cladding 36 of the planar optical waveguide 14. And has a fitting groove 40 fitted to the fitting protrusion 114. The planar optical waveguide 14 is the same as the planar optical waveguide used in the optical connector 10 of the first embodiment described above.

  The fitting protrusion 114 is preferably provided in the vicinity of the optical path changing surface 106, and more preferably provided on the edge of the optical path changing surface 106. The fitting protrusion 114 is formed in the same shape as the fitting protrusion 38, and is formed by, for example, a rectangular protrusion protruding in a rectangular shape. At least one fitting protrusion 114 is provided in the optical waveguide insertion groove 104. The plurality of fitting protrusions 114 are provided at a predetermined interval from one groove side wall to the other groove side wall in the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 and may be formed in a columnar shape along the core row direction of the planar optical waveguide 14. preferable. The fitting protrusion 114 is provided, for example, by being integrally formed with the connector main body 103 with a synthetic resin.

  As shown in FIG. 4 described above, the planar optical waveguide 14 has a fitting groove 40 fitted to the fitting protrusion 114. At least one fitting groove 40 is provided in the cladding 36 on the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14. The fitting grooves 40 are respectively provided in the clads 36 between the adjacent cores 34 and penetrated in the thickness direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 from the planar optical waveguide upper surface 42 to the planar optical waveguide lower surface 44. It is preferably formed by a rectangular groove. Further, the bottom surface of the fitting groove 40 has a function as a position regulating surface that regulates the position in the longitudinal direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 by contacting the fitting projection 114. The groove side surface functions as a position regulating surface that regulates the position of the planar optical waveguide 14 in the width direction by contacting the fitting protrusion 114.

  The planar optical waveguide 14 is disposed in the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 by fitting the fitting groove 40 on the distal end surface with the fitting protrusion 114. Thereby, the planar optical waveguide 14 is attached to the connector main body 103 with further improved accuracy of the core position. Thus, the fitting protrusion 114 is provided in a convex shape on the connector main body 103 and has a function as a fitting convex portion for fitting the planar optical waveguide 14 and positioning it on the connector main body 103. The groove 40 is provided in a concave shape in the planar optical waveguide 14 and has a function as a fitting recess to be fitted with the fitting projection.

  Next, the operation of the optical connector 100 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the optical connector 100 is disposed so as to face the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 disposed on the circuit board 115, and is attached with the optical path changing surface 106 side facing the optical module 101. Optical coupling between the optical waveguide 14 and the optical element 102 is performed. The optical connector 100 is positioned by the optical module 101 by inserting guide pins provided in the optical module 101 into the guide holes 112 of the connector main body 103. The optical connector 100 is guided by guide pins, and the optical path changing surface 106 is positioned on the extension of the optical element 102 in the optical axis direction.

  When the optical element 102 is a light receiving element, the signal light transmitted through the planar optical waveguide 14 is reflected by the optical path changing surface 106 by being bent at approximately 90 degrees and is incident on the optical element 102 of the optical module 101. . Further, when the optical element 102 is a light emitting element, the signal light emitted from the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 is bent at approximately 90 degrees by reflection at the optical path changing surface 106 and is emitted from the planar optical waveguide 14. It is directed in the axial direction and is incident on the tip surface of the planar optical waveguide 14. In this way, the optical connector 100 optically couples the planar optical waveguide 14 and the optical element 102.

  Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the optical connector 120. FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of a main part of the optical connector 120. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the optical connector 120 in the optical waveguide insertion direction. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same element and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The optical connector 120 is disposed so as to face the optical element 102 of the optical module 101, and has a function of optically coupling between the planar optical waveguide 84 and the optical element 102. The optical connector 120 is attached to the optical module 101 in the same manner as the optical connector 100 of the third embodiment shown in FIG.

  The optical connector 120 includes a connector body 122 that is wide and is substantially square and formed of a synthetic resin such as an epoxy resin. The connector main body 122 is provided in a groove shape from the rear end surface of the connector main body 122 to a substantially central position, and the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 that is inserted through the planar optical waveguide 84 is disposed on the front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove 104. It is provided so as to face the element 102, is formed to be inclined with respect to the extension in the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 84, and changes the optical axis direction of the signal light propagating through the planar optical waveguide 84 by reflection. The optical path changing surface 106 for optically coupling the planar optical waveguide 84 and the optical element 102 is provided.

  On the periphery of the optical waveguide insertion groove 104, there is provided a translucent member attaching portion 110 that abuts and attaches the sheet-like translucent member 108. The connector body 122 has a pair of guide holes 112 through which guide pins for positioning the optical connector 120 to the optical module 101 are inserted.

  The connector main body 122 is provided on the bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 and is provided so as to protrude from the surface edge of the optical path changing surface 106 along the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 84, and engages with the planar optical waveguide 84. And a fitting protrusion 124 for positioning the connector main body 122. Further, the planar optical waveguide 84 is formed in the clad 36 in the shape of a groove along the optical axis direction from the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 84, and has a fitting groove 96 fitted to the fitting protrusion 124. doing. The planar optical waveguide 84 is the same as the planar optical waveguide used in the optical connector 80 of the second embodiment described above.

  The fitting ridge 124 is formed in the same shape as the fitting ridge 92, and a protrusion formed in a mountain shape such as a substantially triangular shape in a cross section substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 84. It is preferable that the protrusion is formed by a chevron-shaped protrusion or an arc-shaped protrusion that is a protrusion formed in a substantially arc-shaped R shape. Of course, the fitting ridge 124 is not limited to a chevron projection or an arc projection. The fitting ridge 124 is formed with a height smaller than the thickness of the planar optical waveguide 84 and is formed with a width smaller than the interval between the adjacent cores 34 in the planar optical waveguide 84.

  At least one fitting protrusion 124 is provided on the groove bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove 104. It is preferable that a plurality of fitting protrusions 124 are provided at predetermined intervals from one groove side wall to the other groove side wall in the optical waveguide insertion groove 104, and a plurality are provided along the core row direction of the planar optical waveguide 84. For example, the fitting protrusion 124 is integrally formed with the connector main body 122 with a synthetic resin.

  As shown in FIG. 12 described above, the planar optical waveguide 84 has a fitting groove 96 that is fitted to the fitting protrusion 124. At least one fitting recess 96 is provided on the lower surface 94 of the planar optical waveguide with a predetermined length from the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 84 along the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 84. It is preferable that the cladding 36 between the core 34 is formed with a predetermined length along the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 84 from the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 84. Further, the inner peripheral surface of the fitting recess 96 has a function as a position restricting surface that restricts the position of the planar optical waveguide 84 in the width direction by contacting the fitting protrusion 124.

  The planar optical waveguide 84 is disposed in the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 by fitting a fitting recess 96 provided on the lower surface 94 of the planar optical waveguide to the fitting protrusion 124. As a result, the planar optical waveguide 84 is attached to the connector main body 122 with improved accuracy of the core position. Thus, the fitting protrusion 124 is provided in a convex shape on the connector body 122 and has a function as a fitting protrusion for fitting the planar optical waveguide 84 and positioning it on the connector body 122. The joint recess 96 is provided in a concave shape in the planar optical waveguide 84 and has a function as a fitting recess to be fitted with the fitting projection.

  A translucent member 108 is attached to the portion of the connector main body 122 where the optical path changing surface 106 is provided in order to transmit the signal light. The optical connector 120 faces the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 disposed on the circuit board 115 and is attached with the optical path changing surface 106 side facing the optical module 101. The optical connector 120 is connected to the planar optical waveguide 84 and the optical element 102. They are optically coupled to each other and have the same action as the optical connector 100 of the third embodiment.

  Next, a fifth embodiment according to the invention will be described.

  FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the optical connector 130. FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the planar optical waveguide 132. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the main part of the optical connector 130 in the optical waveguide insertion direction. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view in the optical waveguide insertion direction showing a state in which the optical connector 130 is attached to the optical module 101. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same element and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The optical connector 130 is disposed so as to face the optical element 102 of the optical module 101, and has a function of optically coupling between the planar optical waveguide 132 and the optical element 102.

  The optical connector 130 includes a connector body 134 that is wide and is substantially square and formed of a synthetic resin such as an epoxy resin. The connector main body 134 is provided in a groove shape from the rear end surface of the connector main body 134 to substantially the center, and includes an optical waveguide insertion groove 136 that is inserted through the planar optical waveguide 132. The front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove 136 is formed substantially perpendicular to the groove bottom surface.

  A translucent member attaching portion 110 that abuts and attaches the sheet-like translucent member 108 is provided on the periphery of the optical waveguide insertion groove 136. The connector body 134 has a pair of guide holes 112 through which guide pins for positioning the optical connector 130 to the optical module 101 are inserted.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the planar optical waveguide 132 is provided in the vicinity of the tip surface of the planar optical waveguide 132 so as to face the optical element 102 and is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 132. The optical path changing surface 138 is formed to optically couple between the planar optical waveguide 132 and the optical element 102 by changing the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 132 by internal reflection of signal light. Here, the internal reflection means that light incident on the transparent body is reflected on the boundary surface with the outside (boundary surface with air or the like) without passing through the transparent body.

  The optical path changing surface 138 is preferably formed to be inclined by approximately 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 132. Thereby, when the optical connector 130 is installed in the optical module 101, the optical path changing surface 138 is located above the optical element 102 and faces the light emitting surface or the light receiving surface of the optical element 102. The transmitted signal light is bent to approximately 90 degrees by internal reflection and is incident on the optical element 102, and the signal light emitted from the optical element 102 is bent to approximately 90 degrees by internal reflection and is output by the planar optical waveguide 132. Can be transmitted.

  The tilt angle of the optical path changing surface 138 is preferably approximately 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 132, but is not necessarily limited to approximately 45 degrees. The optical path changing surface 138 is capable of internal reflection in which the signal light transmitted through the planar optical waveguide 132 enters the optical element 102, and the signal light emitted from the optical element 102 is in the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 132. It is formed at an inclination angle that allows internal reflection to face. The optical path changing surface 138 can be formed in the vicinity of the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 132 by dicing processing or laser processing.

  The translucent member 108 is made of optical resin, optical glass, or the like, for example, in a sheet shape. The signal light transmitted through the planar optical waveguide 132 and internally reflected by the optical path changing surface 138 of the planar optical waveguide 132 is emitted from the planar optical waveguide 132, passes through the translucent member 108, and enters the optical element 102. Is done. The signal light emitted from the optical element 102 passes through the translucent member 108, enters the front end portion of the planar optical waveguide 132, is internally reflected by the optical path changing surface 138, and is transmitted through the planar optical waveguide 132. The gap between the translucent member 108 and the planar optical waveguide 132 is preferably filled with an optical adhesive in order to suppress reflection by the air layer and make it non-reflective.

  The translucent member 108 is preferably provided with a condensing lens that condenses the signal light on the translucent member light incident / exit surface 109 that is opposite to the planar optical waveguide 132 side and on which the signal light enters or exits. The condensing lens is formed by, for example, a convex lens protruding from the light incident / exiting surface 109 of the translucent member. The condensing lens is formed on an extension of the optical element 102 in the optical axis direction, and can condense the signal light by condensing the signal light with the condensing lens, so that the planar optical waveguide 132 and the optical element 102 The optical coupling efficiency can be further improved. The condensing lens is preferably formed integrally with the translucent member 108. The convex surface of the condensing lens is formed of an aspherical surface such as a spherical surface or a parabolic surface (parabolic surface), for example. The condensing lens is preferably provided on the light incident / exit surface 109 of the light transmitting member for each core 34 of the planar optical waveguide 132.

  The connector main body 134 is provided on the front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove 136 and is formed to project from the groove bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove 136 in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 132. A fitting protrusion 140 for fitting the waveguide 132 to the connector main body 134 is provided. The planar optical waveguide 132 is formed in a groove shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 132 in the clad 36 of the planar optical waveguide 132 and is fitted to the fitting protrusion 140. A groove 40 is provided.

  The fitting protrusion 140 is formed in the same shape as the fitting protrusion 38, and is formed by, for example, a rectangular protrusion protruding in a rectangular shape. At least one fitting protrusion 140 is provided on the front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove 136. Further, it is preferable that a plurality of fitting protrusions 140 are provided at a predetermined interval from one groove side wall to the other groove side wall in the optical waveguide insertion groove 136, and are provided in a column shape along the core row direction of the planar optical waveguide 132. . For example, the fitting protrusion 140 is provided integrally with the connector main body 134 with a synthetic resin.

  The planar optical waveguide 132 has a fitting groove 40 fitted to the fitting projection 140 on the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 132. The fitting groove 40 of the planar optical waveguide 132 is formed in the same manner as the fitting groove 40 provided in the planar optical waveguide 14 used in the optical connector 10 of the first embodiment. The fitting groove 40 is provided in at least one place on the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 132. In addition, the fitting groove 40 is provided in the clad 36 between the adjacent cores 34 and is a rectangle that penetrates in the thickness direction of the planar optical waveguide 132 from the upper surface of the planar optical waveguide to the lower surface of the planar optical waveguide. It is preferable that the groove is formed. Further, the bottom surface of the fitting groove 40 has a function as a position regulating surface that regulates the position of the planar optical waveguide 132 in the longitudinal direction by contacting the fitting protrusion 140. The groove side surface functions as a position regulating surface that regulates the position of the planar optical waveguide 132 in the width direction by contacting the fitting protrusion 140.

  The planar optical waveguide 132 is disposed in the optical waveguide insertion groove 104 with the fitting groove 40 fitted to the fitting protrusion 140. Thereby, the planar optical waveguide 132 is attached to the connector main body 134 with improved accuracy of the core position. As described above, the fitting protrusion 140 is provided in a convex shape on the connector main body 134 and has a function as a fitting convex portion for fitting the planar optical waveguide 132 and positioning it on the connector main body 134. The groove 40 is provided in the planar optical waveguide 132 in a concave shape, and has a function as a fitting concave portion fitted to the fitting convex portion. A light transmitting member 108 is attached to the portion of the planar optical waveguide 132 where the optical path changing surface 138 is provided in order to transmit the signal light.

  Next, the operation of the optical connector 130 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 23, the optical connector 130 is attached so as to face the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 disposed on the circuit board 115 with the optical path changing surface 138 side facing the optical module 101. Optical coupling between the optical element 132 and the optical element 102 is performed. The optical connector 130 is positioned on the optical module 101 by inserting a guide pin provided in the optical module 101 into the guide hole 112 of the connector main body 134. The optical connector 130 is guided by guide pins, and the optical path changing surface 138 is positioned on the extension of the optical element 102 in the optical axis direction.

  When the optical element 102 is a light receiving element, the signal light transmitted through the planar optical waveguide 132 is bent at approximately 90 degrees by internal reflection at the optical path changing surface 138 and is incident on the optical element 102 of the optical module 101. The Further, when the optical element 102 is a light emitting element, the signal light emitted from the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 is bent at approximately 90 degrees by internal reflection at the optical path changing surface 138, so that the planar optical waveguide 132 Directed in the direction of the optical axis. In this manner, the optical connector 130 optically couples the planar optical waveguide 132 and the optical element 102.

  Next, a sixth embodiment according to the invention will be described.

  FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the optical connector 150. FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the planar optical waveguide 152. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the main part of the optical connector 150 in the planar optical waveguide insertion direction. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same element and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The optical connector 150 is disposed so as to face the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 and has a function of optically coupling between the planar optical waveguide 152 and the optical element 102. The optical connector 150 is attached to the optical module 101 in the same manner as the optical connector 130 of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG.

  The optical connector 150 includes a connector main body 154 that is wide and has a substantially square shape and is formed of a synthetic resin such as an epoxy resin. The connector main body 154 is provided in a groove shape from the rear end surface of the connector main body 154 to substantially the center, and includes an optical waveguide insertion groove 136 that is inserted through the planar optical waveguide 152. The front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove 136 is formed substantially perpendicular to the groove bottom surface. The front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove 136 is in contact with the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 152 and functions as a position regulating surface that regulates the longitudinal position of the planar optical waveguide 152.

  A translucent member attaching portion 110 for attaching the translucent member 108 in contact with the optical waveguide insertion groove 136 is provided on the periphery of the groove. The connector main body 154 has a pair of guide holes 112 through which guide pins for positioning the optical connector 150 in the optical module 101 are inserted.

  As shown in FIG. 25, the planar optical waveguide 152 is provided in the vicinity of the tip surface of the planar optical waveguide 152 so as to face the optical element 102 and is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 152. The optical path changing surface 138 is formed and optically couples between the planar optical waveguide 152 and the optical element 102 by changing the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 152 by internal reflection of signal light.

  The connector main body 154 is provided on the groove bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove 136, is formed to project from the front groove wall of the optical waveguide insertion groove 136 along the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 152, and is fitted with the planar optical waveguide 152. It has a fitting ridge 156 for positioning to the connector main body 154. Further, the planar optical waveguide 152 is formed in a groove shape along the optical axis direction from the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 152 in the clad 36 of the planar optical waveguide 152, and is fitted to the fitting protrusion 156. A groove 96 is provided.

  The fitting protrusion 156 is formed in the same shape as the fitting protrusion 92, and a protrusion formed in a mountain shape such as a substantially triangular shape in a cross section in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 152. It is preferable that the protrusion is formed by a chevron-shaped protrusion or an arc-shaped protrusion that is a protrusion formed in a substantially arc-shaped R shape. Of course, the fitting ridges 156 are not limited to chevron projections or arc projections. The fitting protrusion 156 is formed with a height smaller than the thickness of the planar optical waveguide 152 and with a width smaller than the interval between the adjacent cores 34 in the planar optical waveguide 152.

  At least one fitting protrusion 156 is provided on the passage bottom surface of the optical waveguide insertion groove 136. It is preferable that a plurality of fitting protrusions 156 are provided at a predetermined interval from one groove side wall to the other groove side wall in the optical waveguide insertion groove 136, and a plurality are provided along the core row direction of the planar optical waveguide 152. For example, the fitting protrusion 156 is provided integrally with the connector main body 154 with a synthetic resin.

  The planar optical waveguide 152 has a fitting groove 96 that is provided on the lower surface of the planar optical waveguide and is fitted to the fitting protrusion 156 of the connector main body 154. The fitting groove 96 is formed in the same manner as the fitting groove 96 provided in the planar optical waveguide 84 used in the optical connector 80 of the second embodiment. At least one fitting recess 96 is provided on the lower surface of the planar optical waveguide of the planar optical waveguide 152. The fitting recess 96 is formed in the clad 36 between the adjacent cores 34 of the planar optical waveguide 152, and extends from the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 152 along the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 152. Provided in a concave shape. Further, the inner peripheral surface of the fitting recess 96 has a function as a position restricting surface that restricts the position of the planar optical waveguide 152 in the width direction by coming into contact with the fitting protrusion 156.

  The planar optical waveguide 152 is disposed in the optical waveguide insertion groove 136 by fitting the fitting recess 96 with the fitting protrusion 156. Thereby, the planar optical waveguide 152 is attached to the connector main body 154 with further improved accuracy of the core position. As described above, the fitting protrusion 156 is provided in a convex shape on the connector main body 154 and has a function as a fitting convex portion for fitting the planar optical waveguide 152 and positioning the connector on the connector main body 154. The joint recess 96 is provided in a concave shape in the planar optical waveguide 152 and has a function as a fitting recess to be fitted with the fitting projection. Further, a translucent member 108 is attached to a portion of the planar optical waveguide 152 where the optical path changing surface 138 is provided in order to transmit the signal light. The optical connector 150 is attached so that the optical path changing surface 138 side faces the optical module 101 and faces the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 disposed on the circuit board 115, and the planar optical waveguide 152 and the optical element 102 are attached. And have the same function as the optical connector 130 of the fifth embodiment.

  Next, a seventh embodiment according to the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 27 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the optical connector 160. FIG. 28 is an enlarged view showing a main part of the optical connector 160. FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of the optical connector 160 in the planar optical waveguide insertion direction. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same element and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The optical connector 160 is disposed to face the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 and has a function of optically coupling between the planar optical waveguide 14 and the optical element 102. The optical connector 160 is attached to the optical module 101 in the same manner as the optical connector 100 of the third embodiment shown in FIG.

  The optical connector 160 includes a connector main body 162 that is wide and is substantially square and formed of a synthetic resin such as an epoxy resin. The connector body 162 is provided in the connector body 162 in a groove shape, and is provided in communication with the optical waveguide insertion groove 164 that is inserted through the planar optical waveguide 14 and the optical waveguide insertion groove 164. An optical waveguide insertion hole 166 into which the tip of the optical waveguide is inserted, a recess 168 that communicates with the optical waveguide insertion hole 166 and is formed in a concave shape in a direction substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 14, 168 is provided so as to face the optical element 102, and is inclined with respect to the extension of the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 14, and the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 is changed by reflection of signal light And an optical path changing surface 170 that optically couples between the planar optical waveguide 14 and the optical element 102.

  The optical waveguide insertion groove 164 is formed in a groove shape from the rear end surface of the connector main body 162 to substantially the center. The optical waveguide insertion groove 164 is formed with a groove width larger than the width of the planar optical waveguide 14 and is formed with a groove depth deeper than the thickness of the planar optical waveguide 14. An optical waveguide cover 172 that covers the planar optical waveguide 14 disposed in the optical waveguide insertion groove 164 is attached to the optical waveguide insertion groove 164.

  The optical waveguide insertion hole 166 is provided in communication with the optical waveguide insertion groove 164, and the distal end portion of the planar optical waveguide 14 is inserted therethrough. The optical waveguide insertion hole 166 is formed in such a size that the tip of the planar optical waveguide 14 can be inserted.

  The recess 168 communicates with the optical waveguide insertion hole 166 and is formed in a concave shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 14. The recess 168 is covered with a translucent member 108 formed of optical resin or the like. The translucent member 108 is attached to a translucent member attaching portion 178 provided so as to surround the opening of the recess 168.

  The optical path changing surface 170 is provided in the recess 168 so as to be opposed to the optical waveguide insertion hole 166, and is formed to be inclined with respect to the extension of the planar optical waveguide 14 in the optical axis direction. It has a function of changing the axial direction by reflection of signal light. The optical path changing surface 170 is formed of a reflecting mirror in the same manner as the optical path changing surface 106 provided on the connector main body 162 of the third embodiment.

  Further, the connector main body 162 has a pair of guide holes 112 into which guide pins for positioning the optical connector 160 to the optical module 101 are inserted.

  The connector main body 162 is provided in the optical waveguide insertion hole 166 so as to oppose the optical path changing surface 170, is provided so as to protrude in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 14, and engages with the planar optical waveguide 14 Then, a fitting protrusion 180 for positioning the connector main body 162 is provided. The planar optical waveguide 14 is provided on the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14 and is formed in a groove shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 in the cladding 36 of the planar optical waveguide 14. And has a fitting groove 40 fitted to the fitting protrusion 180. The planar optical waveguide 14 is the same as the planar optical waveguide used in the optical connector 10 of the first embodiment described above.

  The fitting protrusion 180 is formed in the same shape as the fitting protrusion 38, and is formed by, for example, a rectangular protrusion protruding in a rectangular shape. For example, the fitting protrusion 180 is formed substantially vertically from the lower end of the optical waveguide insertion hole 166 to the upper end of the hole. At least one fitting protrusion 180 is provided in the optical waveguide insertion hole 166. A plurality of fitting protrusions 180 are provided at a predetermined interval from one hole side end of the optical waveguide insertion hole 166 to the other hole side end, and are formed in a column shape along the core row of the planar optical waveguide 14. Is preferred. The optical waveguide insertion hole 166 is partitioned by a plurality of fitting protrusions 180 so that the cores 34 on the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14 are exposed to the recesses 168, respectively. For example, the fitting protrusion 180 is provided integrally with the connector main body 162 with a synthetic resin.

  As shown in FIG. 4 described above, the planar optical waveguide 14 has a fitting groove 40 fitted to the fitting protrusion 180. At least one fitting groove 40 is provided in the cladding 36 on the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 14. The fitting grooves 40 are respectively provided in the clads 36 between the adjacent cores 34 and penetrated in the thickness direction of the planar optical waveguide 14 from the planar optical waveguide upper surface 42 to the planar optical waveguide lower surface 44. It is preferably formed by a rectangular groove. Further, the bottom surface of the fitting groove 40 has a function as a position regulating surface that regulates the position of the planar optical waveguide 14 in the longitudinal direction by contacting the fitting projection 180. The groove side surface functions as a position restricting surface that restricts the position of the planar optical waveguide 14 in the width direction by contacting the fitting protrusion 180.

  The planar optical waveguide 14 is disposed in the optical waveguide insertion groove 164 with the tip portion of the planar optical waveguide 14 inserted into the optical waveguide insertion hole 166. The planar optical waveguide 14 is positioned on the connector main body 162 by fitting the fitting groove 40 on the distal end surface with the fitting protrusion 180 provided in the optical waveguide insertion hole 166. Thereby, the planar optical waveguide 14 is attached to the connector main body 162 with further improved accuracy of the core position. Thus, the fitting protrusion 180 is provided in a convex shape on the connector main body 162 and has a function as a fitting convex portion for fitting the planar optical waveguide 14 and positioning it on the connector main body 162. The groove 40 is provided in a concave shape in the planar optical waveguide 14 and has a function as a fitting recess to be fitted with the fitting projection. The optical connector 160 is attached so as to face the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 disposed on the circuit board 115 with the optical path changing surface 170 side facing the optical module 101, and the planar optical waveguide 14 and the optical element 102. Are optically coupled to each other and have the same action as the optical connector 100 of the third embodiment.

  Next, an eighth embodiment according to the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 30 is an enlarged view showing a main part of the optical connector 190. FIG. 31 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the planar optical waveguide 191. FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the optical connector 190 in the planar optical waveguide insertion direction. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same element and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The optical connector 190 is disposed to face the optical element 102 of the optical module 101, and has a function of optically coupling between the planar optical waveguide 191 and the optical element 102. The optical connector 190 is attached to the optical module 101 in the same manner as the optical connector 130 of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG.

  The optical connector 190 includes a connector main body 192 that is wide and substantially square and formed of a synthetic resin such as an epoxy resin. The connector main body 192 communicates with the optical waveguide insertion groove 164 inserted through the planar optical waveguide 191, the optical waveguide insertion hole 166 into which the tip of the planar optical waveguide 191 is inserted, and the optical waveguide insertion hole 166. , And a recess 168 formed in a concave shape in a direction substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 191.

  An optical waveguide cover 172 that covers the planar optical waveguide 191 disposed in the optical waveguide insertion groove 164 is attached to the optical waveguide insertion groove 164. The recess 168 is covered with a translucent member 108 formed of optical resin or the like. The translucent member 108 is attached to a translucent member attaching portion 178 provided so as to surround the opening of the recess 168. The connector main body 192 has a pair of guide holes 112 through which guide pins for positioning the optical connector 190 to the optical module 101 are inserted.

  As shown in FIG. 31, the planar optical waveguide 191 is provided on the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 191 so as to face the optical element 102, and is inclined to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 191. An optical path changing surface 194 that optically couples between the planar optical waveguide 191 and the optical element 102 by changing the optical axis direction by internal reflection of signal light is provided. The optical path changing surface 194 is preferably formed with an inclination of approximately 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 191. Thereby, when the optical connector 190 is installed in the optical module 101, the optical path changing surface 194 is located above the optical element 102 and faces the light emitting surface or the light receiving surface of the optical element 102. The transmitted signal light is bent at approximately 90 degrees by internal reflection and is incident on the optical element 102, and the signal light emitted from the optical element 102 is bent at approximately 90 degrees by internal reflection to generate a planar optical waveguide 191. Can be transmitted. The inclination angle of the optical path changing surface 194 is preferably approximately 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 191, but is not necessarily limited to approximately 45 degrees. The optical path changing surface 194 is formed by dicing or laser processing the tip surface of the planar optical waveguide 191.

  The connector main body 192 is provided in the optical waveguide insertion hole 166 and is provided so as to protrude in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide 191, and the planar optical waveguide 191 is fitted and positioned on the connector main body 192. A fitting protrusion 180 is provided. The fitting protrusion 180 is formed in the same manner as the fitting protrusion formed on the connector main body 192 of the seventh embodiment.

  The planar optical waveguide 191 is provided on the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 191, and is formed in a groove shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis direction of the planar optical waveguide 191 on the clad 36 of the planar optical waveguide 191. It has a fitting groove 196 fitted with the fitting protrusion 180. At least one fitting groove 196 is provided in the clad 36 on the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide 191. The fitting groove 196 is provided in the clad 36 between the adjacent cores 34, and is formed by penetrating in the thickness direction of the planar optical waveguide 191 from the upper surface of the planar optical waveguide to the lower surface of the planar optical waveguide. It is preferable.

  The fitting groove 196 is formed with a groove width narrower than the interval between the adjacent cores 34 of the planar optical waveguide 191, and is provided so as not to contact each core 34 of the planar optical waveguide 191. The fitting groove 196 is formed with substantially the same groove depth as the depth of the fitting protrusion 180. Further, the bottom surface of the fitting groove 196 has a function as a position regulating surface that regulates the position of the planar optical waveguide 191 in the longitudinal direction by contacting the fitting projection 180, and the fitting groove 195 The groove side surface functions as a position regulating surface that regulates the position of the planar optical waveguide 191 in the width direction by contacting the fitting protrusion 180. The fitting groove 196 is formed by, for example, dicing or laser processing the tip surface of the planar optical waveguide 191.

  In the planar optical waveguide 191, the distal end of the planar optical waveguide 191 is inserted into the optical waveguide insertion hole 166, and the distal end where the optical path changing surface 194 is formed protrudes into the recess 168 and is inserted into the optical waveguide insertion groove 164. Arranged. The planar optical waveguide 191 is positioned on the connector main body 192 by fitting the fitting groove 196 on the distal end surface of the planar optical waveguide 191 with the fitting protrusion 180 provided in the optical waveguide insertion hole 166. Thereby, the planar optical waveguide 191 is mounted on the connector main body 192 with further improved accuracy of the core position. Thus, the fitting protrusion 180 is provided in a convex shape on the connector main body 192, and has a function as a fitting convex portion for fitting the planar optical waveguide 191 and positioning it on the connector main body 192. The groove 196 is provided in the planar optical waveguide 191 in a concave shape, and has a function as a fitting concave portion fitted to the fitting convex portion.

  Further, the gap between the tip of the planar optical waveguide 191 and the translucent member 108 is preferably filled with an optical adhesive or the like in order to prevent reflection by the air layer. The optical connector 190 is attached with the optical path changing surface 194 side facing the optical module 101 facing the optical element 102 of the optical module 101 disposed on the circuit board 115, and the planar optical waveguide 191 and the optical element 102. And have the same function as the optical connector 130 of the fifth embodiment.

  As described above, according to the optical connector configured as described above, the planar optical waveguide is provided with a fitting groove or a fitting groove provided in the planar optical waveguide in the connector body, and the planar optical waveguide is fitted into the connector. For example, the dimensional accuracy of the planar optical waveguide thickness and the dimensional accuracy of the planar optical waveguide in the width direction due to the dicing process are reduced because it is positioned by being fitted to the fitting protrusions or the protruding protrusions that are positioned on the main body. Even in this case, the accuracy of the core position in the planar optical waveguide can be further improved.

10, 70, 80, 100, 120, 130, 150, 160, 190 Optical connector 12, 50, 60, 74, 82, 103, 122, 134, 154, 162, 192 Connector body 14, 84, 132, 152, 191 and 194 Planar type optical waveguide 16 Hook 18 Optical waveguide insertion port 20 Optical waveguide insertion path 22, 22a Optical waveguide exposed portion 24 Connector main body rear end surface 26 Connector main body front end surface 30, 112 Guide hole 30a Guide hole 34 Core 36 Clad 38 , 38a, 114, 140, 180 Mating projection 40, 196 Mating groove 41, 41a Core hole 42 Planar optical waveguide upper surface 44, 94 Planar optical waveguide lower surface 52 Recessed portion 54 Lid 62 First body portion 64 Second body Portion 66 Front end face 68 Optical waveguide protrusion 69 Convex curved protrusion 72 Planar optical waveguide laminate 86 End surface 88 Front end surface 90, 176 Optical waveguide exposure port 92, 124, 156 Fitting protrusion 96 Fitting groove 101 Optical module 104, 136, 164 Optical waveguide insertion groove 106, 138, 158, 170, 194 Optical path changing surface 108 Translucent member 109 Translucent member light incident / exit surface 110, 178 Translucent member mounting portion 102 Optical element 115 Circuit board 116 Translucent member light incident / exit surface 166 Optical waveguide insertion hole 168 Recess 172 Optical waveguide cover

Claims (3)

An optical connector for holding a planar optical waveguide having a plurality of cores arranged in parallel and a clad surrounding the plurality of cores,
Provided with a connector body made of synthetic resin
A convex protrusion provided on the connector main body, and fitting the flat optical waveguide to position the connector main body;
A fitting recess provided in a clad between adjacent cores in the plurality of cores in a concave shape in the planar optical waveguide, and fitted with the fitting projection;
I have a,
The connector body is
An optical waveguide insertion port provided on a rear end surface of the connector body, into which the planar optical waveguide is inserted;
An optical waveguide insertion path provided in the connector main body, communicating with the optical waveguide insertion port, and inserting the planar optical waveguide;
An optical waveguide exposed portion provided on a front end surface of the connector body, communicating with the optical waveguide insertion path, and exposing a tip of the planar optical waveguide;
A guide hole into which a guide pin for guiding and positioning the connector body is inserted;
Including
The fitting protrusions are provided so as to partition the cores along the core row direction of the planar optical waveguide from one end to the other end of the optical waveguide exposed portion, and to expose the cores, respectively. Formed from a bottom surface of the passage so as to protrude in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the planar optical waveguide, and includes a fitting projection for fitting the planar optical waveguide and positioning the connector body,
The fitting recess is provided in each of the clads between adjacent cores on the front end surface of the planar optical waveguide, and the optical axis of the planar optical waveguide is disposed in the clad between adjacent cores in the plurality of cores. It is formed in a groove shape in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction, and comprises a fitting groove fitted with the fitting protrusion,
The optical connector is characterized in that the fitting protrusion is formed at a height substantially the same as the thickness of the planar optical waveguide and is formed at a depth substantially the same as the depth of the fitting groove . The optical connector according to claim 1 ,
The planar optical waveguide is a planar optical waveguide laminate in which a plurality of planar optical waveguide layers having a plurality of cores arranged in parallel and a clad surrounding the plurality of cores are laminated. Optical connector. The optical connector according to claim 1 or 2 ,
2. The optical connector according to claim 1, wherein the planar optical waveguide is a polymer planar optical waveguide formed of synthetic resin or a quartz glass planar optical waveguide formed of quartz glass.

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