CN101515050B

CN101515050B - Light coupler and manufacturing method thereof

Info

Publication number: CN101515050B
Application number: CN 200910005685
Authority: CN
Inventors: 寺田和宏; 芳贺健二; 伊缝幸利; 冲田明子; 土森正昭; 中尾朱里
Original assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co Ltd
Current assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co Ltd
Priority date: 2008-02-19
Filing date: 2009-02-19
Publication date: 2013-04-24
Anticipated expiration: 2029-02-19
Also published as: JP5315715B2; JP2009198609A; CN101515050A

Abstract

The present invention provides a light coupler and a manufacturing method thereof. The light coupler of the invention includes a plurality of light input terminals, a plurality of light output terminals, a plurality of half mirrors, and an optical wave guide connecting the plurality of the light input terminals, the plurality of the light output terminals and the plurality of the half mirrors. The optical wave guide has kinked line shape and each of the plurality of half mirrors is placed at a respective corner of the kinked line shape. Especially, the kinked line shape includes a polygon network.

Description

Photo-coupler and manufacture method thereof

Technical field

The present invention relates to utilize the photo-coupler (light coupler) of optical communication.In the present invention, photo-coupler will be dispensed to from the signal of any light input end (terminal) input all light output end.Can have different dissipation from the output of each light output end.When light input end and the pairing of light output end are used, can be or can not be the output of light output end of this pairing of formation from the signal of the light input end input that forms pairing.The light input and output side that pairing is used can comprise the light input/output terminal as an integrated optical terminal.

Background technology

Carried out many trials with optical communication technology is applied at home or the vehicles such as automobile, electric train, aircraft, boats and ships etc. in LAN (LAN (Local Area Network)) technology that makes up.At this, require photo-coupler to distribute from the signal of any input end input and export all light output end to, and have low dissipation amount.For example, at the technical report of non-patent literature Fuji Xerox Co.Ltd, among 1996, the No.1 (http://www.FujiXerox.Co.jp/company/tr/tr96/takshi_Ota/T_Ota101. html) brief description this photo-coupler.

On the other hand, applicant of the present invention has has researched and developed and has applied for the multiple certainly shaping optical waveguide of utilizing light-cured resin liquid.In these technology, when the curing light time that is used for resin liquid from irradiations such as optical fiber, produce light by cured resin and assemble (concentration of light) and form core at major axis.These technology are included among patent documentation JP-4011283, JP-2002-365459, JP-2004-149579, JP-2005-347441, the JP-2001-154046 etc.

For the photo-coupler manufacture method, well-known based on the method for glass fibre welding.But the device that is used for the welding glass fiber is expensive.Manufacturing process is complicated and time-consuming.Therefore, the photo-coupler by the glass fibre welding is very expensive.In addition, the photo-coupler by the glass fibre welding is not easy to be connected to the plastic optical fiber (POF) for small-sized LAN.

It also is known using the photo-coupler of plastic optical fiber (POF).But this only is plastic optical fiber (POF) bundle.Known only have large-scale photo-coupler as the device that forms optics LAN.For example it is of a size of about 7cm.

On the other hand, the inventor develops as the photo-coupler of the mentioned optical waveguide applications that certainly is shaped in above-mentioned patent documentation by unremitting effort, thus the novel photo-coupler shown in having finished hereinafter.Photo-coupler of the present invention is based on new manufacture method, and more specifically, photo-coupler of the present invention can easily be made by using the method for making from the optical waveguide that is shaped.

Summary of the invention

The present invention relates to have the novel coupling mechanism of axle shape waveguide core, wherein half-mirror (half mirror) or catoptron are arranged on the corner of kinking line (kinked line).Especially, the kinking line comprises polygonal network.In this case, half-mirror or catoptron are arranged on polygonal take-off point and corner.Photo-coupler of the present invention even in the different situation of dissipation amount also will distribute and output to arbitrarily light output end from the signal of any light input end input.In this case, when light input end and the pairing of light output end are used, can be or can not be the output of light output end of this pairing of formation from the signal of the light input end input that forms pairing.The light input and output side that pairing is used can be the light input/output terminal as an integrated optical terminal.

At this, for example half-mirror is formed by dielectric multilayer film, passes a part of incident light and reflects the light of remainder with transmission.In this case, transmissivity and reflectivity are not limited to be respectively 50%, but can set at the presetted wavelength place suitable transmissivity and reflectivity.When a plurality of wavelength or wavelength band were set as flashlight, any one in preferred transmission rate and the reflectivity was at least as described signal light wavelength and Yan Buhui becomes 100%.

Preferred mirror does not have transmittance substantially.Its transmissivity need to not be entirely 0% at the presetted wavelength place, and its reflectivity need to not be entirely 100% at this wavelength place.

In photo-coupler of the present invention, do not need certain and the kinking line of optical waveguide or the turning quantity of polygonal network are complementary such as the quantity of the optical element of half-mirror and/or catoptron.

Axle shape waveguide core is easy to form by the certainly shaping optical waveguide technique with light-cured resin.In the method, half-mirror and catoptron remain on the inside of suitable shell and liquid light-cured resin are filled in this enclosure.To shine from each light input end, each light output end and each I/O end be used to the light of the wavelength that solidifies described light-cured resin.Then, axle shape begins growth from optical waveguide each optics terminal from irradiation light that is shaped.Therefore, form core along light path.When the growth of described core and from different directions in conjunction with the time, the side surface of joint portion has smooth cylindricality because so-called optics welds effect.And, when core grows to reflection (bending) section of placing half-mirror or catoptron from both direction, also can weld effect by optics and in reflection (bending) section, form the core with major diameter convex surface.

In the present invention, the optical waveguide that a kind of photo-coupler comprises a plurality of light input end, a plurality of light output end, a plurality of half-mirrors and connects described a plurality of light input end, described a plurality of light output end and described a plurality of half-mirrors, and described optical waveguide has the kinking wire shaped.In described a plurality of half-mirror each all is arranged on the nemaline respective corners of described kinking place.

Especially, described kinking wire shaped comprises polygonal network.

Preferably, in photo-coupler, when the quantity of light input end is Ni, the quantity of light output end is No, and when the quantity of half-mirror was N, Ni, No and N satisfied Ni≤N and No≤N and polygon and partly have N turning.

In relating to photo-coupler of the present invention, at least one halving line perpendicular to the respective corners of described polygonal network (bisector) in described a plurality of half-mirrors.

In relating to photo-coupler of the present invention, at least one in described a plurality of half-mirrors is on the halving line of described polygon respective corners partly.

In relating to photo-coupler of the present invention, preferably, in described a plurality of light input end at least one is arranged on the first extension line as the extension of the first side that forms respective corners, and at least one of described a plurality of light output end is arranged on the second extension line as the extension of the Second Edge that forms respective corners.

In the present invention, at least one input terminal is combined into the input and output terminal with corresponding lead-out terminal.

In relating to photo-coupler of the present invention, catoptron is arranged on the place, an angle of polygonal network.Preferably, catoptron is perpendicular to the halving line at the angle of the polygonal network that is provided with this catoptron.

Preferably, in photo-coupler, when the quantity of light input end is Ni, the quantity of light output end is No, the quantity of half-mirror is N, and when the quantity of catoptron was Nm, Ni, No, N and Nm satisfied Ni≤N and No≤N and polygon and partly have (N+Nm) individual angle.

In relating to photo-coupler of the present invention, from the signal of the first input end of described a plurality of input terminals input from described a plurality of lead-out terminals except with the lead-out terminal of described first input end pairing lead-out terminal output.

In relating to photo-coupler of the present invention, the optical axis of optical waveguide in the plane.

Preferably, described a plurality of half-mirror is perpendicular to described plane.

In relating to photo-coupler of the present invention, at least two penetrabilitys to the P-ripple in described a plurality of half-mirror are equal to or higher than 90% and S-wave reflection rate is equal to or higher than 90%, and a penetrability to the P-ripple in described a plurality of half-mirror is equal to or higher than 60% and S-wave reflection rate is equal to or higher than 60%.

In photo-coupler, preferably, at least two penetrabilitys to the P-ripple in described a plurality of half-mirrors are equal to or higher than 95% and S-wave reflection rate is equal to or higher than 95%.

In relating to photo-coupler of the present invention, described a plurality of half-mirror is the first half-mirror, the second half-mirror and the 3rd half-mirror, and wherein the first optical path length between the first and the 3rd half-mirror is greater than the 3rd optical path length between the second optical path length between the first and second half-mirrors and the second and the 3rd half-mirror.The second half-mirror is lower than 90% and S-wave reflection rate is lower than 90% to the penetrability of P-ripple.

In photo-coupler, preferred mirror is arranged between the first and second half-mirrors and the respective corners place of polygonal network.

In relating to photo-coupler of the present invention, optical waveguide is formed by light-cured resin.

In the present invention, thus a kind of method of making photo-coupler is included in first step that a plurality of input terminals, a plurality of lead-out terminal and a plurality of half-mirrors are set on the shell, fills second step, introducing and the light reactive resin reaction of described shell and make the light of its sclerosis form the third step of optical waveguide with liquid light reactive resin.

In described manufacture method, preferably introduce described light along the limit of polygon part.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is the key diagram of the principle of expression first embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2 A～2C is the key diagram of expression principle of first embodiment of the invention when polygon is quadrilateral.

Fig. 3 A～3C is the key diagram of expression principle of first embodiment of the invention when polygon is triangle.

Fig. 4 A～4E is the key diagram of the principle of expression second embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 5 A～5B and Fig. 6 A～6F are the key diagrams of the principle of expression the 3rd embodiment.

Fig. 7 A～7C is the key diagram that the method for photo-coupler of the present invention is made in expression.Fig. 7 A represents the element of photo-coupler of the present invention, and Fig. 7 B represents the starting stage of this manufacture method, and Fig. 7 C represents the starting stage of another manufacture method.

Fig. 8 A～8E is illustrated in the manufacturing of photo-coupler of the present invention and the key diagram of the light path in the use procedure.

Fig. 9 A～9B and Figure 10 are the photos by the photo-coupler of manufacture method acquisition of the present invention.

Figure 11 is near expression half-mirror HM-a and the HM-c s-ripple penetrability visible light and the figure of the characteristic of p-ripple penetrability.

Figure 12 is near the s-ripple penetrability of expression half-mirror HM-b visible light and the figure of the characteristic of p-ripple penetrability.

Embodiment

Hereinafter, with reference to accompanying drawing embodiment of the present invention are described.

Fig. 1 is the figure of explanation first embodiment of the invention.In the first embodiment, optical waveguide forms kinking line or polygon and half-mirror and is arranged on all corners.Consider the situation that all flashlights are advanced clockwise with respect to this polygon.And the situation that all flashlights are advanced counterclockwise with respect to this polygon is passable equally.

In this embodiment, polygon is set as N-gon (wherein N is at least 2 natural number), and each turning is set as P-i (wherein i is the natural number that is less than or equal to N).In the following description, when surpassing N, i+1 and i+2 be expressed as i+1-N and i+2-N.

As shown in Figure 1, the half-mirror HM-i perpendicular to the interior angle halving line is arranged on P-i place, turning.As shown in Figure 1, two limits that consist of turning P-i are extended and are upwards produced input In-i along this extension line from left oblique upper.At this moment, the P-i place, turning on half-mirror HM-i, In-i partly reflects and produces and exports Out-i.Transmitted light arrives the turning P-(i+1) adjacent with P-i right side, turning.Owing to being arranged on turning P-(i+1), the half-mirror HM-(i+1) perpendicular to the interior angle halving line locates, therefore the transmitted light of exporting Out-i becomes output Out-(i+1), and output Out-(i) is partially reflected and further arrive turning P-(i+2) adjacent with its right side locates.When the input In-i of flashlight was input to turning P-i, attach most importance to redoubling and input In-i of above line was assigned to all output Out-j (wherein j is the natural number that is less than or equal to N) when dissipating.In Fig. 1, the input In-i that is input to the flashlight of turning P-i is reflected by half-mirror HM-i, and flashlight is output (Out-i) to right side extension edge (when observing from the outside of turning P-i).When the flashlight that passes half-mirror HM-i in transmission was advanced along polygonal clockwise direction, the flashlight that the half-mirror HM-j at each P-j place, turning is passed in transmission was output (Out-j) to left side extension edge (when observing from the outside of turning P-j).The flashlight that is reflected by the half-mirror HM-j at each P-j place, turning arrives the half-mirror HM-(j+1) that next turning P-(j+1) locates along polygonal clockwise direction.When watching from the outside of each turning (flashlight at all turnings when dissipating be assigned to described each turning), flashlight outputs to the right side extension edge.

In this embodiment, can half-mirror be set in all corners.And a part of half-mirror can be reflected mirror and substitute.

Understand easily, transmit (when observing from the outside at each turning) from all flashlights of left side extension edge input along polygonal clockwise direction, and flashlight outputs to the right side extension edge (when observing from the outside at each turning) at each turning.

That is, extension line along polygonal two limits of polygonal each corner that is provided with half-mirror, light output end can be arranged on (when watching from the outside at each turning) on the extension edge of right side, light input end can be arranged on the extension edge of left side (when watching from the outside at each turning).

Antipodal embodiment is with it, extension line along polygonal two limits of polygonal each corner that is provided with half-mirror, light output end can be arranged on the extension edge of left side (when watching from the outside at each turning), and light input end can be arranged on (when watching from the outside at each turning) on the extension edge of right side.

Illustrate that with reference to Fig. 2 A, 2B and 2C polygon is tetragonal situation in the first embodiment.

For example, shown in Fig. 2 A and 2B, the first embodiment can have the four pairs of sub-In-1 of light input end～4 and the sub-Out-1 of light output end～4.That is.In the corner of quadrilateral ABCD, half-mirror HM-a～d is set with the interior angle halving line perpendicular to the turning.For convenience's sake, four turning A, B, C and D are along arranging clockwise.

The structure that Fig. 2 A represents wherein at turning A place to input along vector AB direction from the sub-In-1 of light input end and exports from the sub-Out-1 of light output end along vector DA direction.Input and output four different corners are identical.

The structure that Fig. 2 B represents wherein at turning B place to input along vector B C direction from the sub-In-1 of light input end and exports from the sub-Out-1 of light output end along vector DA direction at turning A.Input and output four different corners are identical.

Fig. 2 C is the schematic diagram that removes the photo-coupler with three pairs of light input and output sides of In-4 and Out-4 from Fig. 2 B.

Then, illustrate that with reference to Fig. 3 A, 3B and 3C polygon is leg-of-mutton situation in the second embodiment.

Optical waveguide forms triangle and half-mirror is arranged on all corners.Describe with reference to Fig. 3 A and 3B.Suppose that leg-of-mutton three turnings are A, B and C and are HM-a, HM-b and HM-c at the half-mirror of this setting.As shown in Figure 3A, the flashlight In-a-1 that incides half-mirror HM-a along vector AC direction is distributed on vector AB and the AC direction and arrives adjacent with turning A two turning B and the C place of triangle ABC.At turning B and C place, half-mirror HM-b and HM-c produce branch along both direction, but these branches all are the extension lines that form two limits of leg-of-mutton turning B and C.In this case, for example, arrive the turning C that the flashlight of turning B does not lead contiguous from turning A.Equally, arrive the turning B that the flashlight of turning C does not lead contiguous from turning A.

For each turning, form light input end of pairing and the light output end bearing of trend of any one in two limits at formation turning and be arranged on definitely identical corner (Fig. 3 B).Then, the flashlight from the sub-In-a input of the light input end that is arranged on turning A can from the sub-Out-b of the light output end that is arranged on turning B and the sub-Out-c output of the light output end that is arranged on C place, turning, have dissipation simultaneously.Equally, the flashlight from the sub-In-b input of the light input end that is arranged on turning B can from the sub-Out-c of the light output end that is arranged on turning C and the sub-Out-a output of the light output end that is arranged on A place, turning, have dissipation simultaneously.Can from the sub-Out-a of the light output end that is arranged on turning A and the sub-Out-b output of the light output end that is arranged on B place, turning, have simultaneously dissipation from the flashlight of the sub-In-c input of the light input end that is arranged on turning C.At this moment, even when each corner forms the light input of pairing and light output end and mixes independently respectively, as the also not variation of effect of photo-coupler.When the light input and output side forms one in each corner (Fig. 3 C), the flashlight of inputting from the light input/output terminal In/Out-a that is arranged on turning A can from the light input/output terminal In/Out-b that is arranged on turning B and the light input/output terminal In/Out-c output that is arranged on C place, turning, have dissipation simultaneously.Equally, can be from the light input/output terminal In/Out-c that is arranged on turning C and the light input/output terminal In/Out-a output that is arranged on A place, turning from the flashlight that the light input/output terminal In/Out-b that is arranged on turning B inputs, has simultaneously dissipation, and can from the light input/output terminal In/Out-a that is arranged on turning A and the light input/output terminal In/Out-b output that is arranged on B place, turning, have simultaneously dissipation from the flashlight that the light input/output terminal In/Out-c that is arranged on turning C inputs.

Then, with reference to Fig. 4 A, 4B, 4C, 4D and 4E the 3rd embodiment is described.

In this embodiment, in the first embodiment of triangle situation, add a catoptron, and substitute triangle with quadrilateral.Shown in Fig. 4 A and 4B, consider to have the quadrilateral of along clockwise direction four turning A, B, C and D.Mirror M is arranged on D place, turning.

Shown in Fig. 4 A, the flashlight In-a-1 that incides half-mirror HM-a along vector AB direction is distributed on vector AB and the AD direction and arrives the turning B adjacent with turning A and the D place of quadrilateral ABCD.The flashlight that arrives D place, turning mirror M becomes vector DC direction and arrives C place, turning.Form branch by half-mirror HM-b and HM-c at both direction at turning B and C place, but these branches are the extension edges that form two limits of tetragonal turning B and C.In this case, for example, arrive the turning C that the flashlight of turning B does not lead contiguous from turning A.Equally, arrive the turning B that the flashlight of turning C does not lead contiguous from turning A via turning D.Consider along vector AD direction incide the flashlight In-a-2 of half-mirror HM-a and consider along vector CB direction and vector CD direction incide half-mirror HM-c flashlight situation too.

Shown in Fig. 4 B, the flashlight In-b-1 that incides half-mirror HM-b along vector B C direction is distributed on vector B A and the BC direction and arrives the turning A adjacent with turning B and the C place of quadrilateral ABCD.Form branch by half-mirror HM-a and HM-c at both direction at turning A and C place, but these branches are the extension edges that form two limits of tetragonal turning A and C.In this case, for example, arrive the turning D that the flashlight of turning A does not lead contiguous from turning B.Equally, arrive the turning D that the flashlight of turning C does not lead contiguous from turning B.Consideration incide along vector B A direction half-mirror HM-b flashlight In-b-2 situation too.

Therefore, shown in Fig. 4 C, for turning A, B and C, any one direction in the bearing of trend on two limits that form the turning arranges light input end and arranges definitely and this light input end forms light output end of pairing in identical corner.Then, the flashlight from the sub-In-a input of the light input end that is arranged on turning A can from the sub-Out-b of the light output end that is arranged on turning B and the sub-Out-c output of the light output end that is arranged on C place, turning, have dissipation simultaneously.Equally, the flashlight from the sub-In-b input of the light input end that is arranged on turning B can from the sub-Out-c of the light output end that is arranged on turning C and the sub-Out-a output of the light output end that is arranged on A place, turning, have dissipation simultaneously; And can from the sub-Out-a of the light output end that is arranged on turning A and the sub-Out-b output of the light output end that is arranged on B place, turning, have simultaneously dissipation from the flashlight of the sub-In-c input of the light input end that is arranged on turning C.At this moment, even when the light input of the pairing of formation around the corner and light output end mix with respect to other turning independently in each corner, as the also not variation of effect of photo-coupler.

When the light input and output side of each corner forms as one (Fig. 4 D and 4E), the flashlight of inputting from the light input/output terminal In/Out-a that is arranged on turning A can from the light input/output terminal In/Out-b that is arranged on turning B and the light input/output terminal In/Out-c output that is arranged on C place, turning, have dissipation simultaneously.Equally, the flashlight of inputting from the light input/output terminal In/Out-b that is arranged on turning B can from the light input/output terminal In/Out-c that is arranged on turning C and the light input/output terminal In/Out-a output that is arranged on A place, turning, have dissipation simultaneously; And can from the light input/output terminal In/Out-a that is arranged on turning A and the light input/output terminal In/Out-b output that is arranged on B place, turning, have simultaneously dissipation from the flashlight that the light input/output terminal In/Out-c that is arranged on turning C inputs.

Therefore, sub, the light input/output terminal of light input end, light input end, half-mirror be connected the connection of axle core, thereby are included in all light paths shown in the described accompanying drawing with catoptron.Therefore, photo-coupler is formed by the N-gon section of described core with as the branch of the extension line on each limit of the N-gon section of passing half-mirror.Randomly, before forming core, can easily make optical fiber and other exterior light waveguide be connected to light input end, light output end and light input/output terminal by the processing shell.Therefore, light input end that photo-coupler can be by making the curing light leading-in end that is used to form core and form core at the same position place of shell, light output end is sub and the light input/output terminal.The periphery of described core is randomly covered by clad material.

Then, with reference to Fig. 5 A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E and 6F the 3rd embodiment is described.

An optical axis that is characterised in that optical waveguide of this embodiment is arranged in the common plane, and utilizing three half-mirrors to connect three light input end and three light output end period of the day from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m by optical waveguide, half-mirror is perpendicular to this common plane.That is plane of incidence is that common plane and each half-mirror can be fully or separate at least in part s ripple and p ripple.

For example, if the s ripple of all half-mirror reflections 100% and 0% p ripple and the p ripple of transmission 100% and 0% s ripple, then arrive two different output terminals as 50% in 100% s-ripple of initial incident light and 100% the p ripple, even also be like this when the flashlight from an input end incident passes two half-mirrors.

Then, if the p ripple of the s ripple of the first half-mirror reflection 90% and 10% and the s ripple of the second half-mirror reflection 70% and 30% p ripple then have 33% initialize signal light to arrive according to 63% s ripple and 3% p ripple.

Equally, if the s ripple of the p ripple of the s ripple of the first half-mirror transmission 10% and 90% and the second half-mirror transmission 30% and 70% p ripple then have 33% initialize signal light to arrive according to 3% s ripple and 63% p ripple.

In this embodiment, be 25% to compare with in the situation of 50% transmissivity that does not have polarization characteristic and 50% reflectivity, arriving efficient, the arrival efficient of two half-mirrors is significantly improved.

In relating to the coupling mechanism of this embodiment, the setting of the optical waveguide that light input end is sub, light output end is sub, half-mirror is connected with connection is selectable.For example, half-mirror can be arranged on three corners of equilateral triangle.For example, can increase by completely reflecting mirror is set the design freedom of photo-coupler.Can use three completely reflecting mirrors, to be arranged alternately completely reflecting mirror and half-mirror in orthohexagonal corner.

But half-mirror is difficult to arrange fully equally near each light input end and the optical waveguide light path length of each light output end and the optical waveguide light path length between half-mirror.In test procedure, owing to the reason that depends on the optical waveguide manufacture method, become six kinds of modes arranging along with light input end and output terminal and different of the optical axis mismatch on the both direction for example, the dissipation difference that causes in the part place such as the connecting portion of the half-mirror of each optical waveguide.

Can regulate dissipation with in the half-mirror.That is, when all half-mirrors are set to reflect the p ripple of the p ripple of 100% s ripple and 0% and transmission 100% and 0% s ripple, can dissipate by the transmission that increase has a transmission path that little transmission dissipates to realize the balance with other transmission path.

When using the method, for example can increase by completely reflecting mirror is set the design freedom of the optical waveguide of photo-coupler.For example, can dissipate in the transmission that foursquare four corners arrange a completely reflecting mirror and three half-mirrors and can increase the half-mirror that arranges with respect to the completely reflecting mirror diagonal angle.Thus, the increase of transmission dissipation can dissipate to carry out balance by the dissipation when the optical path length via completely reflecting mirror increases owing to a foursquare limit and the reflection of completely reflecting mirror.That is, when the signal from identical input end can obtain from two output terminals, can reduce the difference power of the light signal of described two output terminals acquisition.

In this embodiment, it is desirable to, at least two half-mirrors reflect s ripple and complete transmission p ripple fully.But be dissipated in any case and can not or make the actual conditions of light filter for 0 when considering, can reflect at least 90% s ripple and less than 10% p ripple, and p ripple that can transmission at least 90% and less than 10% s ripple.Preferably, can reflect at least 95% s ripple and less than 5% p ripple, and p ripple that can transmission at least 95% and less than 5% s ripple.More preferably, can reflect at least 97% s ripple and less than 3% p ripple, and p ripple that can transmission at least 97% and less than 3% s ripple.

As mentioned below, in foursquare four corners three half-mirrors and completely reflecting mirror and the extension line on foursquare four limits are set three light input ends and three light output end are set, in order to can regulate the transmission dissipation that is caused by the half-mirror with respect to the setting of completely reflecting mirror diagonal angle.In this case, half-mirror is characterised in that the s ripple of reflection at least 60% and less than the p ripple of 40% p ripple and transmission at least 60% with less than 40% s ripple.More preferably, can reflect at least 80% or less than 90% s ripple and at least 10% or less than 20% p ripple, and can transmission at least 80% or less than 90% p ripple and at least 10% or less than 20% s ripple.When p-ripple transmissivity and s-wave reflection rate decline to a great extent, the light output decline that finally can obtain.The lower limit of p-ripple transmissivity and s-wave reflection rate can be regulated between 60%～90% according to the insertion dissipation characteristic of photo-coupler to be formed.

Particularly, Fig. 5 A represents the sub-In-a of first, second, and third light input end, the In-b and the In-c that wherein arrange by square ABCD being set as plane of incidence (incidence plane), the sub-Out-a of first, second, and third light output end, Out-b and Out-c, the topology layout figure of first, second, and third half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c and completely reflecting mirror M.In Fig. 5 A, first, second, and third half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c and completely reflecting mirror M represent with thick line, represent with unidirectional arrow that from the light path of the light of the sub-In-a of first, second, and third light input end, In-b and In-c incident and from the light path of the light of the sub-Out-a of first, second, and third light output end, Out-b and Out-c emission the light path between first, second, and third half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c and completely reflecting mirror M represents with four-headed arrow.

Certainly, except above-mentioned explanation, the core of optical waveguide also is formed on the light path of unidirectional arrow and four-headed arrow.All light paths (by unidirectional arrow with shown in the four-headed arrow) all are arranged in the identical common plane as square ABCD.That is, Fig. 5 A is illustrated in each incident reflection of light and transmission in the plane of incidence.

First, second, and third half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c comprise the interior angle halving line of three turning A, the B of square ABCD and C and form perpendicular to square ABCD (plane of incidence).Completely reflecting mirror M forms perpendicular to the interior angle halving line of the residue turning D of square ABCD.

For the limit AB of square ABCD, the sub-In-a of the first light input end is arranged on the extension line on A limit, turning and the sub-Out-b of the second light output end is arranged on the extension line on B limit, turning.

For the limit BC of square ABCD, the sub-In-b of the second light input end is arranged on the extension line on B limit, turning and the sub-Out-c of the 3rd light output end is arranged on the extension line on C limit, turning.

For the limit CD of square ABCD, the sub-In-c of the 3rd light input end is arranged on the extension line on C limit, turning.

For the limit DA of square ABCD, the sub-Out-a of the first light output end is arranged on the extension line on A limit, turning.

Incide light that the A of half-mirror HM-a orders when its transmitted light is transferred to the B point of the second half-mirror HM-b and transmission and passes the second half-mirror HM-b from the sub-In-a of the first light input end, arrive the sub-Out-b of the second light output end.

Inciding light that the A of the first half-mirror HM-a orders from the sub-In-a of the first light input end is transferred to the D point of completely reflecting mirror and is transferred to the C point of the 3rd half-mirror HM-c by the reflection of ordering at D at its reflected light, and by the 3rd half-mirror HM-c reflex time, arrive the sub-Out-c of the 3rd light output end.

Incide light that the B of the second half-mirror HM-b orders when its transmitted light is transferred to the C point of the 3rd half-mirror HM-c and transmission and passes the 3rd half-mirror HM-c from the sub-In-b of the second light input end, arrive the sub-Out-c of the 3rd light output end.

Inciding the light that the B of the second half-mirror HM-b orders from the sub-In-b of the second light input end is transferred to the A point of the first half-mirror HM-a and by the first half-mirror HM-a reflex time, arrives the sub-Out-a of the first light output end at its reflected light.

Inciding light that the C of the 3rd half-mirror HM-c orders from the sub-In-c of the 3rd light input end is transferred to the D point of completely reflecting mirror and is transferred to the A point of the first half-mirror HM-a by the reflection of ordering at D at its transmitted light, and transmission arrives the sub-Out-a of the first light output end when passing the first half-mirror HM-a.

Inciding the light that the C of half-mirror HM-c orders from the sub-In-c of the 3rd light input end is transferred to the B point of the second half-mirror HM-b and by the second half-mirror HM-b reflex time, arrives the sub-Out-b of the second light output end at its reflected light.

When four turnings at square ABCD arrange half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c and completely reflecting mirror M, the sub-In-a of light input end, In-b and In-c and the sub-Out-a of light output end, Out-b and Out-c can be set shown in Fig. 5 B.

That is for the limit AB of square ABCD, the sub-Out-a of light output end is arranged on the extension line on A limit, turning and the sub-In-b of light input end is arranged on the extension line on B limit, turning.

For the limit BC of square ABCD, the sub-Out-b of light output end is arranged on the extension line on B limit, turning and the sub-In-c of light input end is arranged on the extension line on C limit, turning.

For the limit CD of square ABCD, the sub-Out-c of light output end is arranged on the extension line on C limit, turning.

For the limit DA of square ABCD, the sub-In-a of light input end is arranged on the extension line on A limit, turning

Obviously, the layout of Fig. 5 B with substantially be complementary about the layout of the symmetrically arranged Fig. 5 A of straight line BD line.In the layout of Fig. 5 B, " first " is light input end with suffix c, light output end is sub and half-mirror, and " the 3rd " is light input end with suffix a, light output end is sub and half-mirror.Therefore, the layout of Fig. 5 B also has the feature of the invention that relates to claim 5.

When half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c and completely reflecting mirror M were arranged on four turnings of square ABCD, other layout of light input and output side did not play the effect of photo-coupler.

Then, the layout table of Fig. 5 A is shown in the situation that half-mirror HM-b separates s ripple and p ripple fully and not exclusively separates transmission path in the situation of s ripple and p ripple at half-mirror HM-b.What describe is half-mirror HM-a and the s ripple of HM-c reflection 100% and the p ripple of transmission 100%.

At this, in Fig. 5 A layout, half-mirror HM-b not exclusively separates the situation of s ripple and p ripple corresponding to this embodiment.

Hereinafter, illustrate from the s ripple As of the sub-In-a of light input end input and p ripple Ap, from the s ripple Bs of the sub-In-b input of light input end and p ripple Bp and from the s ripple Cs of the sub-In-c input of light input end and the transmission form of p ripple Cp.

Fig. 6 A, 6B and 6C are the planimetric maps that is illustrated in the transmission path when half-mirror HM-b separates s ripple and p ripple fully in the layout of Fig. 5 A.That is, description be the same with half-mirror HM-a and HM-c, half-mirror HM-b also reflects 100% s ripple and the p ripple of transmission 100%.

As shown in Figure 6A, the s ripple As that inputs from the sub-In-a of light input end is reflected by half-mirror HM-a, completely reflecting mirror M and half-mirror HM-c, and arrives light output end Out-c.At this, do not exist because the dissipation that transmission and reflection cause.

Pass half-mirror HM-a and half-mirror HM-b from the p ripple Ap transmission of the sub-In-a input of light input end, and arrive light output end Out-b.At this, do not exist because the dissipation that transmission and reflection cause.

Shown in Fig. 6 B, the s ripple Bs that inputs from the sub-In-b of light input end is reflected by half-mirror HM-b and half-mirror HM-a, and arrives light output end Out-a.At this, do not exist because the dissipation that transmission and reflection cause.

Pass half-mirror HM-b and half-mirror HM-c from the p ripple Bp transmission of the sub-In-b input of light input end, and arrive light output end Out-c.At this, do not exist because the dissipation that transmission and reflection cause.

Shown in Fig. 6 C, the s ripple Cs that inputs from the sub-In-c of light input end is reflected by half-mirror HM-c and half-mirror HM-b, and arrives light output end Out-b.At this, do not exist because the dissipation that transmission and reflection cause.

Pass half-mirror HM-c from the p ripple Cp transmission of the sub-In-c input of light input end, by the completely reflecting mirror M reflection, and transmission is passed half-mirror HM-a, arrival light output end Out-a.At this, do not exist because the dissipation that transmission and reflection cause.

On the other hand, Fig. 6 D, 6E and 6F are the planimetric maps that is illustrated in the transmission path when half-mirror HM-b not exclusively separates s ripple and p ripple in the layout of Fig. 5 A.For example, description is the s ripple of half-mirror HM-b reflection 85% and s ripple and the p ripple of transmission 85% and the p ripple of reflection 15% of transmission 15%.

Shown in Fig. 6 D, the s ripple As that inputs from the sub-In-a of light input end is reflected by half-mirror HM-a, completely reflecting mirror M and half-mirror HM-c, and arrives light output end Out-c.At this, do not exist because the dissipation that transmission and reflection cause.

Pass half-mirror HM-a from the p ripple Ap transmission of the sub-In-a input of light input end, and wherein half-mirror HM-b is passed in 85% transmission, and arrive light output end Out-b.At this, remaining 15% is reflected by half-mirror HM-b and loses.

Shown in Fig. 6 E, the s ripple Bs that inputs from the sub-In-b of light input end is reflected 85% by half-mirror HM-b, and this reflected light is reflected by half-mirror HM-a, and arrives light output end Out-a.In this case, half-mirror HM-b is passed in 15% s ripple Bs transmission, and is reflected by half-mirror HM-c and lose.

Pass half-mirror HM-b from 85% transmission of the p ripple Bp of the sub-In-b of light input end input, and this transmitted light transmission passes half-mirror HM-c, and arrive light output end Out-c.In this case, 15% p ripple Bp is reflected by half-mirror HM-b, and transmission is passed half-mirror HM-a and lost.

Shown in Fig. 6 F, reflected by half-mirror HM-c from the s ripple Cs of the sub-In-c of light input end input, and 85% being reflected by half-mirror HM-b wherein, and arrive light output end Out-b.Remaining 15% transmission is passed half-mirror HM-b and is lost.

Pass half-mirror HM-c from the p ripple Cp transmission of the sub-In-c input of light input end, by the completely reflecting mirror M reflection, half-mirror HM-a is passed in transmission, and arrives light output end Out-a.At this moment, do not exist because the dissipation that transmission and reflection cause.

Then, the method that relates to manufacturing photo-coupler of the present invention with reference to description of drawings.In the description of manufacture method, will the program that realize one embodiment of the present of invention be described hereinafter.

Can use disclosed various technology in above-mentioned four patent documentations so that the optical waveguide that certainly is shaped is suitable for as the optical waveguide according to photo-coupler of the present invention.Also can use the photo-coupler that only forms core and do not form covering, namely utilize the air of encirclement core as the photo-coupler of covering.

Any available light-cured resin liquid all can be used for forming from being shaped optical waveguide.Except free radical polymerization, cationic polymerization etc., also can use arbitrarily other curing mechanism.Usually, preferred laser is as solidifying light.The solidification rate of light-cured resin liquid can utilize the wavelength of laser and intensity to regulate.In addition, can use any available trigger for optical solidification (Photoepolymerizationinitiater initiater) according to wavelength and the light-cured resin liquid of laser.About the particular content of above-mentioned item, patent documentation (wherein applicant of the present invention is the co-applicant) for example JP-2004-149579 is described below.

In structural unit, comprise at least one aromatic ring for example the resin of phenyl high index of refraction is provided, and only comprise aliphatic series resin low-refraction is provided.In order to reduce refractive index, a part of hydrogen in the structural unit can be replaced by fluorine.

Aliphatic series comprises polyvalent alcohol for example ethylene glycol, diglycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, four propylene glycol, neopentyl glycol, 1, ammediol, 1,4-butylene glycol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, trihydroxymethyl propane, pentaerythrite and dipentaerythritol.

Aromatics comprises various phenolic compounds for example bisphenol-A, bisphenol S, bisphenol Z, Bisphenol F, phenolics (novolak), o-cresol formaldehyde resin, paracresol urea formaldehyde and to alkyl phenolic resin.

Following functional group can be introduced relative low-molecular-weight (molal weight is about below the 3000) skeleton that has the structure of above-mentioned substance or be selected from arbitrarily the oligomer (polyethers) of one or more polyvalent alcohols of above-mentioned example as reactive group.

(material of free redical polymerization)

In structural unit, have ethene one or more, preferably two or more free redical polymerizations unsaturated (ethylene-unsaturated) reactive group for example photo polymerization monomer and/or the oligomer of acryloyl group.Example with material of the unsaturated reactive group of ethene comprises ester conjugate acid for example (methyl) acrylate, itaconate and maleate.

(material of cationically polymerizable)

In structural unit, have reactive ether structures one or more, preferably two or more cationically polymerizables for example photo polymerization monomer and/or the oligomer of oxirane ring (epoxy compound) and epoxypropane ring.The example of oxirane ring (epoxy compound) also comprises 3,4-epoxycyclohexyl etc. except Oxyranyle.The epoxypropane ring is the ether with four-membered ring structure.

(radical polymerization initiator)

Radical polymerization initiator is the compound that activates the polyreaction of the free redical polymerization material that monomer and/or oligomer by free redical polymerization form by light.Concrete example comprises for example benzoin of benzoin class; benzoin methyl ether; benzoin propyl ether etc.; acetophenones is acetophenone for example; 2; 2-dimethoxy-2-phenyl acetophenone; 2; 2-diethoxy-2-phenyl acetophenone; 1; the 1-dichloroacetophenone; 1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl acetophenone; 2-methyl isophthalic acid-(4-(methyl mercapto) phenyl)-2-morpholine-1-acetone; N; N-dimethylamino benzoylformaldoxime etc.; Anthraquinones is 2-methylanthraquinone for example; the 1-chloroanthraquinone; 2-amyl anthraquinone etc.; thioxanthene ketone for example 2; 4-dimethyl thioxanthones; 2; the 4-diethyl thioxanthone; CTX; 2; 4-diisopropyl thioxanthones etc.; the ketal class is acetyl phenyl dimethyl ketal for example; hexyl dimethyl ketal etc., benzophenone is benzophenone for example; the methyldiphenyl ketone; 4,4 '-dichloro benzophenone; 4; 4 '-two diethylamino benzophenone; michler's ketone; 4-benzoyl-4 '-dimethyl diphenyl sulfide etc.; 2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxygen etc.Radical polymerization initiator is not limited to this, and can use separately or make up two or more uses.

(cationic polymerization initiators)

Cationic polymerization initiators is the compound that activates the polyreaction of the cationically polymerizable material that monomer and/or oligomer by cationically polymerizable form by light.Concrete example comprises diazo salt, salt compounded of iodine, sulfonium salt, selenium salt, pyridiniujm, luxuriant molysite, phosphonium salt and thiopyrinium salt.But preferred relatively heat-staple salt Photoepolymerizationinitiater initiater, comprise diphenyl iodine, xylyl iodine, phenyl (to methoxybenzyl) iodine, two (to the 2-methyl-2-phenylpropane base) iodine, two (rubigan) iodine etc. such as the aromatics salt compounded of iodine, and the aromatics sulfonium salt comprises diphenyl sulfonium, xylyl sulfonium, phenyl (to methoxybenzyl) sulfonium, two (to the 2-methyl-2-phenylpropane base) sulfonium, two (rubigan) sulfonium etc.When using the salt Photoepolymerizationinitiater initiater for example when aromatics salt compounded of iodine and aromatics sulfonium salt, cationic example comprises BF ₄ ^-, AsF ₆ ^-, SbF ₆ ^-, PF ₆ ^-, B (C ₆F ₅) ₄ ^-Deng.Cationic polymerization initiators is not limited to this, and they can use separately or make up two or more uses.

With reference to accompanying drawing manufacture method according to photo-coupler of the present invention is described.Certainly, described photo-coupler manufacture method below is not limited to the application of above-mentioned light-cured resin and polymerization initiator.

Fig. 7 A is the structural plan figure of an example of the member 100 of an expression embodiment relating to photo-coupler of the present invention.Member 100 can hold liquid resin in inner 10v, and member 100 comprises the link A that has for connecting optical fiber and other exterior light waveguide ₁, A ₂, B ₁, B ₂, C ₁And C ₂Shell 10 and be fixed in three half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c and a mirror M of described inside.Four turnings of quadrilateral ABCD are arranged among the inside 10v of shell 10, so that 4 A ₁, A, B and B ₂, 3 A ₂, A and D, 4 B ₁, B, C and C ₂And 3 C ₁, C and D be arranged on the same line with this order respectively.At three turning A, B and the C place of quadrilateral ABCD, three half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c are arranged on the plane that comprises the interior angle halving line and perpendicular to by two planes that the limit forms that form each turning.D place, residue turning at the quadrilateral ABCD of this design arranges a mirror M perpendicular to the interior angle halving line.

Fig. 7 B is the initial step key diagram of an example of the expression method of making the photo-coupler relate to one embodiment of the invention.Utilize the member 100 of the photo-coupler of Fig. 7 A, by liquid light-cured resin 20 being filled in the shell 10 and from all six link A ₁, A ₂, B ₁, B ₂, C ₁And C ₂Along vector A ₁A direction, vector A ₂A direction, vector B ₁B direction, vector B ₂B direction, vector C ₁C direction and vector C ₂The C direction will be introduced in the shell 10 in order to the curing light of certain wavelength of solidifying light-cured resin, thereby form axle core 21.

Fig. 7 C is the initial step key diagram of an example of the expression method of making the photo-coupler relate to one embodiment of the invention.Utilize the member 100 of the photo-coupler of Fig. 7 A, by being filled into liquid light-cured resin 20 in the shell 10 and from three link A ₂, B ₁And C ₁Along vector A ₂A direction, vector B ₁B direction and vector C ₁The C direction will be introduced in the shell 10 in order to the curing light of certain wavelength of solidifying light-cured resin, thereby form axle core 21.

Thereby can utilize the member 100 of photo-coupler of Fig. 7 A by solidify the principle that obtains required photo-coupler such as Fig. 7 B and the described axle core of 7C in certainly shaping mode below with reference to Fig. 8 explanation.In Fig. 8, shell 10 and six link A have been omitted ₁, A ₂, B ₁, B ₂, C ₁And C ₂, and the light path of three half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c and a mirror M is incided in consideration.

As described in above-mentioned four patent documents, when the curing materials of liquid light-cured resin produced the light congregation, present inventor's certainly shaping optical waveguide was grown to serve as the major axis core.

The member 100 that is appreciated that the photo-coupler that for example utilizes Fig. 7 A from above-mentioned explanation obtains respectively required photo-coupler shown in Fig. 9 A and 9C by solidifying in certainly shaping mode such as Fig. 7 B and the described axle core of 7C.

In each accompanying drawing of Fig. 8 A～8F, for example shine the light in order to the certain wavelength that solidifies light-cured resin from all positions that are expressed as light input end, light output end or light input/output terminal.Then, axle shape begins to begin to grow from all positions that are expressed as light input end, light output end or light input/output terminal from the optical waveguide that is shaped.Therefore, form core along each light path shown in the drawings in Fig. 8.When the growth of described core and from different directions in conjunction with the time, preferably the side surface of joint portion has smooth cylindricality by so-called photocoagulation effect.When growing to reflection (bending) section of half-mirror and catoptron from both direction, also can in reflection (bending) section, form by the photocoagulation effect core of major diameter convex surface.

Therefore, light input end, light output end are sub, light input/output terminal, half-mirror are connected the axle core and connect with catoptron, thereby comprise all light paths as shown in the accompanying drawing of Fig. 8.The branch shape that the quadrilateral part of core and each limit of quadrilateral part extend through half-mirror partly forms photo-coupler.Randomly, optical fiber and other exterior light waveguide can be easily connected to light input end, light output end and light input/output terminal by processing shell before forming core.Therefore, can by locate to make the curing light leading-in end that is used to form core in the same position (link of the present invention) of described shell and be used to form core light input end, light output end is sub and light input/output terminal and easily make photo-coupler.The periphery of core is randomly covered by clad material.

When the curing light that is used for light-cured resin is direction of In-b-1 and In-b-2 and a direction In-a-1 and the In-a-2 when introducing from the altogether both direction shown in Fig. 8 A and 8B, be understandable that the photo-coupler that can finally obtain shown in Fig. 9 A.Equally, when the curing light of light-cured resin is direction In-b-1 and the In-b-2 and a direction among In-c-1 and the In-c-2 when introducing from both direction altogether, be understandable that the photo-coupler that can finally obtain shown in Fig. 9 B.

The photo-coupler of Fig. 9 A and 9B will be described in more detail below.

When obtaining the photo-coupler shown in Fig. 9 A from the growth cores of six positions shown in Fig. 7 B, as an example, the light input and output side to each link to be connected will be further specified.In Fig. 8 C, shell 10 and six link A have also been omitted ₁, A ₂, B ₁, B ₂, C ₁And C ₂, and the light path of three half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c and a mirror M is incided in consideration.

Shown in Fig. 8 C, for turning A, B and C, light input end and light output end of formation pairing is set definitely in identical corner along any one bearing of trend on two limits that form the turning.Then, the flashlight from the sub-In-a input of the light input end that is arranged on turning A can from the sub-Out-b of the light output end that is arranged on turning B and the sub-Out-c output of the light output end that is arranged on C place, turning, have dissipation simultaneously.Equally, the flashlight from the sub-In-b input of the light input end that is arranged on turning B can from the sub-Out-c of the light output end that is arranged on turning C and the sub-Out-a output of the light output end that is arranged on A place, turning, have dissipation simultaneously.Can from the sub-Out-a of the light output end that is arranged on turning A and the sub-Out-b output of the light output end that is arranged on B place, turning, have simultaneously dissipation from the flashlight of the sub-In-c input of the light input end that is arranged on turning C.

That is the sub-In-a of light input end, the sub-Out-a of light output end, the sub-In-b of light input end, the sub-Out-b of light output end, the sub-In-c of light input end and the sub-Out-c of light output end for example are connected to six link A successively ₁, A ₂, B ₁, B ₂, C ₁And C ₂At this moment, for example the sub-In-a of light input end and the sub-Out-a of light output end connect into an optics terminal of pairing.Equally, the sub-Out-b pairing of the sub-In-b of light input end and light output end, the sub-Out-c pairing of the sub-In-c of light input end and light output end.

At this moment, do not change as the effect of photo-coupler, even the light input and output side that forms described pairing in each corner also is like this when each corner is independent of other turning and mixes.

In this case, in the photo-coupler shown in Fig. 9 A, the light path from the sub-In-a of light input end to the sub-Out-a of light output end that it is desirable among Fig. 8 C should not exist, but because diffusion etc. cause the generation part to be leaked, as shown in following embodiment.

Other embodiment shown in Fig. 8 D and the 8E.When obtaining the photo-coupler shown in Fig. 9 B from the growth cores of three positions shown in Fig. 7 C, link as described in wherein three the sub-In/Out-a of light input/light output end, b becoming one shown in Fig. 8 E of light input end and light output end and c should be connected to.That is the flashlight of, inputting from the light input/output terminal In/Out-a that is arranged on turning A can from the light input/output terminal In/Out-b that is arranged on turning B and the light input/output terminal In/Out-c output that is arranged on C place, turning, have dissipation simultaneously.Equally, can be from the light input/output terminal In/Out-c that is arranged on turning C and the light input/output terminal In/Out-a output that is arranged on A place, turning from the flashlight that the light input/output terminal In/Out-b that is arranged on turning B inputs, has simultaneously dissipation, and can from the light input/output terminal In/Out-a that is arranged on turning A and the light input/output terminal In/Out-b output that is arranged on B place, turning, have simultaneously dissipation from the flashlight that the light input/output terminal In/Out-c that is arranged on turning C inputs.

Understand easily, when three positions of the core of growth Fig. 7 C are tie point A ₁, B ₁And C ₁The time can connect three terminal In/Out-a, b and c shown in Fig. 8 D.

When obtaining the photo-coupler shown in Fig. 9 B from the growth cores of three positions shown in Fig. 7 C, preferably described core is at the link that begins to grow except this core (A of Fig. 7 C ₂, B ₁And C ₁) outside other link (A of Fig. 7 C ₁, B ₂And C ₂) in do not grow.But core can be along the A shown in Fig. 3 B ₁, B ₂And C ₂Direction is partly grown from three half-mirrors.And, in this case, do not reduce evaluation of the present invention.

Can realize said structure in the method for the manufacturing optical waveguide of the light-cured resin described in above-mentioned four patent documentations by utilization.

Utilized Fig. 8 that perfect condition based on geometrical optics has been described.But, for example, because optical waveguide is to utilize the core with certain diameter of light-cured resin, and half-mirror and/or catoptron are not pure-surfaces but have certain thickness, therefore produce scattered light, for example scattered light may arrive the position that scattered light should not arrive in the explanation of Fig. 8 and become noise.

By the explanation of reduced graph 8 greatly principle of the present invention has been described.Transmission path with optical waveguide of certain diameter is shown as straight line, is not limited to as described in Figure 8 all signal paths but relate to photo-coupler of the present invention.

Then, with reference to accompanying drawing the photo-coupler that utilizes the concrete manufacturing of above-mentioned photo-coupler manufacture method is described.

Fig. 9 A and 9B relate to the photo of the photo-coupler of concrete manufacturing of the present invention.Utilize the member 100 of the photo-coupler of Fig. 7 A, by from six link A shown in Fig. 7 B ₁, A ₂, B ₁, B ₂, C ₁And C ₂Introduce and solidify light and solidify the photo-coupler that the axle core obtains Fig. 9 A in certainly shaping mode.Utilize the member 100 of the photo-coupler of Fig. 7 A, by from three link A shown in Fig. 7 C ₂, B ₁And C ₁Introduce and solidify light and solidify the photo-coupler that the axle core obtains Fig. 9 B in certainly shaping mode.

In both cases, all with three half-mirrors with catoptron is arranged on four corners and a tetragonal limit is 5mm.

For from six link A ₁, A ₂, B ₁, B ₂, C ₁And C ₂Introduce to solidify light, for example utilize optical fiber to introduce curing light in order to the wavelength that solidifies light-cured resin 20.For example, preferred consolidation laser only.According to the technology in the above-mentioned patent documentation 1～4, the gathering of light occurs, and the major axis core is grown successively from six leading-in ends that solidify light when the refractive index of curing materials is higher than the refractive index of uncured liquid material.When the axle core arrived three half-mirrors and a catoptron, the axle core was by transmission and reflect into one step growth.In this case, the joint portion of the core that extends from different directions has smooth side surface by so-called photocoagulation, forms thus integrated axle core.Therefore, when when all directions with respect to from the central shaft of the light of six leading-in ends by three half-mirrors and mirror reflects and transmission form axle cores, six I/O ends are connected to three half-mirrors and a catoptron by the waveguide core with certain diameter.This optical waveguide will be transferred to from the light of light input end four light output end substantially, as described in reference to figure 8A and 8B.

The photo-coupler of Fig. 9 A is the photo-coupler that its principle has described according to the embodiment of the present invention among Fig. 4 C.Three half-mirrors and catoptron are arranged on four corners and a tetragonal limit is 5mm.In order to form the photo-coupler of Fig. 9 A, for example, the bottom of transparent outer cover is fixed to three half-mirrors and a catoptron and utilizes liquid light-cured resin to fill, for example use optical fiber to introduce curing light in order to the certain wavelength that solidifies light-cured resin from the position of six I/O ends.Preferred consolidation is laser only.According to the technology in the above-mentioned patent documentation 1～4, light occurs when the refractive index of curing materials is higher than the refractive index of uncured liquid material assemble, and the major axis core is grown successively from six leading-in ends that solidify light.When the axle core arrived three half-mirrors and a catoptron, the axle core was by transmission and reflect into one step growth.In this case, the joint portion of the core that extends from different directions has smooth side surface by so-called photocoagulation, forms thus integrated axle core.Therefore, when when all directions with respect to from the central shaft of the light of six leading-in ends by three half-mirrors and mirror reflects and transmission form axle cores, six I/O ends are connected to three half-mirrors and a catoptron by the waveguide core with certain diameter.This optical waveguide will be transferred to from the light of light input end four light output end substantially, as described in reference to the accompanying drawing of figure 4.

In fact, in the photo-coupler of Fig. 9 A, have been found that the undesirable transmission dissipation from In-a to Out-a is about 10dB, dissipate greater than the transmission from In-a to Out-b that this photo-coupler can be used as good photo-coupler.

Fig. 9 A represents the integral photograph of the photo-coupler that its principle has illustrated in Fig. 4 C, still, essentially identical is that the photo-coupler that its principle has illustrated in Fig. 2 B, 2C, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4D and 4E also can be formed by the optical waveguide that certainly is shaped.The effect of the photo-coupler of Fig. 9 A photo has been described, but, similarly, except the desirable transmission principle of the Fig. 1 in this instructions, 2A, 2B, 2C, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D and 4E, the output terminal that the light of leakage is partly outputed to it and needn't be transferred to.

In this case, in these schematic diagrams, introduce to solidify light by utilize optical fiber from the position that is expressed as light input end, light output end and light input/output terminal, thereby be formed for connecting the branching portion of core of the exterior light waveguide etc. of optical fiber.In this case, effect of the present invention does not reduce, even be like this when part forms core in the part that needn't become the primary light waveguide yet.

The transmission of the photo-coupler of survey sheet 3A dissipates.The result is as shown in table 1.

Table 1

As shown in table 1 because from In-a to Out-b and Out-c, from In-b to Out-c and Out-a and from In-c to Out-a and the dissipation amount of Out-b less than 12dB, therefore good distribution function can be used as the original function of photo-coupler.Dissipation amount from In-a to Out-a, from In-b to Out-b and from In-c to Out-c surpasses 21dB, so they are in the scope that can be treated as noise.

Form such as the described photo-coupler 100 of the embodiment of the present invention among Fig. 5 A, 6D, 6E and the 6F.Figure 10 is the photo of explanation photo-coupler 100.In the photo-coupler 100 of Figure 10, according to the method in the patent documentation 1～4 and other known method, by with half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c and completely reflecting mirror M place shell and from three sub-In-a of light input end, In-b and In-c and three sub-Out-a of light output end, Out-b and Out-c introduce the curing light in order to the certain wavelength that solidifies light-cured resin, connect three sub-In-a of light input end thereby form, In-b and In-c, three sub-Out-a of light output end, Out-b and Out-c, half-mirror HM-a, the optical waveguide of HM-b and HM-c and completely reflecting mirror M.The core of optical fiber directly connects each light input end and each light output end of waveguide core.

The signal optical transmission of the 650nm wavelength of half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and HM-c and reflection characteristic design load are shown in the table 2.

Table 2

Based on the design load of table 2 and the transmissison characteristic actual measurement data of the half-mirror HM-a that measures and HM-c is shown in Figure 11, the transmissison characteristic actual measurement data of half-mirror HM-b is shown in Figure 12.

Shown in the characteristic pattern of Figure 11, in half-mirror HM-a and HM-c, wavelength is that transmissivity (penetrability) Tp of the p ripple (electric field on the direction in plane of incidence) of the light of 620～680nm is at least 97%, and the transmissivity Ts of s ripple (perpendicular to the electric field on the direction in the plane of incidence) is less than 1%.Namely, in half-mirror HM-a and HM-c, wavelength is that the reflectivity of the p ripple (electric field on the direction in plane of incidence) of the light of 620～680nm is at least 99% less than the reflectivity of 3%, s ripple (perpendicular to the electric field on the direction in the plane of incidence).Especially, in the wavelength of 650nm, reflectivity is less than 2% when the transmissivity of p ripple is about 98%, and reflectivity is about 100% when the transmissivity of s ripple is about 0%.

In p ripple and s ripple, transmissivity depends on wavelength.Transmissivity beyond above-mentioned wavelength coverage is greatly different.In Figure 11, the average transmittance T of total light flux is shown _{On average}

Shown in the characteristic pattern of Figure 12, in half-mirror HM-b, be the light of 470～680nm for wavelength, the transmissivity Tp of p ripple (electric field on the direction in plane of incidence) is that the transmissivity Ts of 80～82%, s ripple (perpendicular to the electric field on the direction in the plane of incidence) is 14～15%.Even when wavelength coverage is widened 400～750nm, transmissivity is also highly stable, except the wavelength of transmissivity increase by 5%.

The average transmittance T of total light flux shown in Figure 12 _{On average}

Utilization has half-mirror HM-a and the HM-c of transmissison characteristic of Figure 11 and insertion that half-mirror HM-b with transmissison characteristic of Figure 12 measures the photo-coupler 100 of Figure 10 photo dissipate (insertion dissipation).As shown in table 3.The polarization spectro characteristic is low by utilizing, reflectivity be 50% and transmissivity be thereby that all half-mirror HM-a, HM-b and the HM-c of 50% the half-mirror photo-coupler 100 that substitutes Figure 10 photo forms photo-coupler 900, measure similarly to insert and dissipate.It is shown comparative example in table 3.

Table 3

In comparative example, between two light output end exporting from the arbitrarily sub-In-a of light input end, In-b and In-c respectively to insert dissipation difference (or the difference between port) be 1.3～1.9dB.That is, identical signal is greatly different at the power of different light output end.Inserting in six transmission paths dissipates is that the number of path of 8dB is four at least.On the other hand, according to this embodiment, all between two light output end exporting from the sub-In-a of light input end, In-b and In-c are inserted dissipation differences (or the difference between port) less than 1dB.Reduce thus the difference between port.That is, identical signal is little at the power difference of different light output end.Not existing five insertion in the transmission path that insert to dissipate surpasses 8dB and six transmission paths to dissipate in six transmission paths reduces.

The insertion that this embodiment can fully reduce by the half-mirror that utilization has a characteristic of Figure 11 and 12 each transmission path dissipates, and reduce each light input end two light output end respectively transmit the dissipation difference.

As long as no special declaration, preferably the catoptron in each embodiment of the present invention is not for substantially there being the material of transmission, in required wavelength its transmissivity needn't be entirely 0% and in this wavelength its reflectivity needn't be entirely 100%.

In each embodiment of the present invention, the perfect condition based on geometrical optics has been described.But, for example, because optical waveguide is that to utilize the core with certain diameter of light-cured resin and half-mirror and/or catoptron be not pure-surface but has certain thickness, therefore produces scattered light, thereby scattered light can arrive the position that diffusion light should not arrive and become noise.

For principle of the present invention in each embodiment is described, the transmission path with optical waveguide of certain diameter is shown as straight line, is not necessarily limited to such as all signal paths by description of drawings but relate to photo-coupler of the present invention.

As mentioned above, photo-coupler of the present invention can be used as the branch's device that is branched off into each terminal from main line, thereby make up optics LAN.

Photo-coupler of the present invention can be by forming branch line and can be used among the two-wire bi-directional optical LAN in the main line that is inserted into the optical communication line.

Claims

1. photo-coupler comprises:

A plurality of light input end;

A plurality of light output end;

A plurality of half-mirrors;

Optical waveguide, described optical waveguide connects described a plurality of light input end, described a plurality of light output end and described a plurality of half-mirror, and has the kinking wire shaped, in wherein said a plurality of half-mirror each all is arranged on the nemaline respective corners of described kinking place, wherein said optical waveguide comprises polygonal network, all be arranged on the respective corners place of described polygonal network with in wherein said a plurality of half-mirrors each, and

Place the catoptron on the respective corners of described polygonal network,

The quantity of wherein setting described a plurality of light input end is Ni, and the quantity of described a plurality of light output end is No, and the quantity of described half-mirror is N, and wherein Ni, No and N satisfy following relation:

Ni≤N and No≤N;

Wherein said polygonal network has N turning;

Wherein said optical waveguide is formed by light reactive resin;

Wherein said a plurality of half-mirror is the first half-mirror, the second half-mirror and the 3rd half-mirror, and the first optical path length between the wherein said first and the 3rd half-mirror is greater than the 3rd optical path length between the second optical path length between described the first and second half-mirrors and the described second and the 3rd half-mirror; With

Wherein said the second half-mirror is lower than 90% and S-wave reflection rate is lower than 90% to the penetrability of P-ripple.

2. photo-coupler according to claim 1, wherein said catoptron is perpendicular to the halving line of the described respective corners that described catoptron is installed.

3. photo-coupler according to claim 1, wherein

The quantity of setting described light input end is Ni, and the quantity of described light output end is No, and the quantity of described half-mirror is N, and the quantity of described catoptron is Nm, and wherein Ni, No, N and Nm satisfy following relation:

Ni≤N and No≤N; And

Described polygonal network has (N+Nm) individual turning.

4. photo-coupler according to claim 1, wherein

In described a plurality of half-mirror at least one is perpendicular to the halving line of the respective corners of the described polygonal network that is provided with this half-mirror in described a plurality of half-mirror.

5. photo-coupler according to claim 1, wherein

In described a plurality of half-mirror at least one is on the halving line of respective corners of the described polygonal network that is provided with this half-mirror in described a plurality of half-mirror, and perpendicular to the plane that is limited by the respective corners that is provided with this half-mirror place in described a plurality of half-mirror.

6. photo-coupler according to claim 3, wherein Ni+No=6, N=3 and Nm=1.

7. photo-coupler according to claim 3, wherein Ni=3, No=3, N=3 and Nm=1.

8. photo-coupler according to claim 3, wherein

In described a plurality of light input end at least one is arranged on the first extension line as the extension of the first side that forms described respective corners; With

In described a plurality of light output end at least one is arranged on the second extension line as the extension of the Second Edge that forms described respective corners.

9. photo-coupler according to claim 6, wherein the signal of of the first input end from described a plurality of input terminals input from described a plurality of lead-out terminals except with respect to the lead-out terminal output the lead-out terminal of described first input end pairing.

10. photo-coupler according to claim 1, corresponding lead-out terminal is combined into the input and output terminal at least one in the wherein said input terminal and the described lead-out terminal.

11. photo-coupler according to claim 1, the optical axis of wherein said optical waveguide is in the plane.

12. photo-coupler according to claim 11, wherein said a plurality of half-mirrors are perpendicular to described plane.

13. photo-coupler according to claim 12, wherein Ni=3, No=3 and N=3.

14. photo-coupler according to claim 13, two penetrabilitys to the P-ripple in wherein said a plurality of half-mirror are equal to or higher than 90% and S-wave reflection rate is equal to or higher than 90%, and another penetrability to the P-ripple in described a plurality of half-mirror is equal to or higher than 60% and S-wave reflection rate is equal to or higher than 60%.

15. photo-coupler according to claim 14, at least two penetrabilitys to the P-ripple in wherein said a plurality of half-mirrors are equal to or higher than 95% and S-wave reflection rate is equal to or higher than 95%.

16. photo-coupler according to claim 1, wherein between described the first and second half-mirrors and the respective corners place of described polygonal network catoptron is set.

17. photo-coupler according to claim 16, wherein said catoptron is completely reflecting mirror.

18. photo-coupler according to claim 16, wherein

Described optical waveguide has the rectangular waveguide shape;

19. photo-coupler according to claim 18, each in wherein said a plurality of half-mirrors all are on the halving line of respective corners of described polygonal network and described catoptron perpendicular to the halving line of the respective corners of described polygonal network.

20. photo-coupler according to claim 1, wherein said optical waveguide is formed by light reactive resin.

21. photo-coupler according to claim 17, wherein said optical waveguide is formed by light reactive resin.

22. a method of making photo-coupler according to claim 1 may further comprise the steps:

The first step of described a plurality of input terminal, described a plurality of lead-out terminals and described a plurality of half-mirror and completely reflecting mirror is set at shell;

Utilize liquid light reactive resin to fill the second step of described shell;

Thereby introduce with described light reactive resin reaction and make the light of its sclerosis form the third step of described optical waveguide.

23. method is according to claim 22 wherein introduced described light reactive resin by at least two in described a plurality of light input end with described light.

24. method is according to claim 22 wherein introduced described light reactive resin by all described a plurality of light input end with described light.

25. method is according to claim 23 wherein introduced described light along the limit of described polygonal network.

26. a method of making photo-coupler according to claim 14 may further comprise the steps:

The first step of described a plurality of input terminal, described a plurality of lead-out terminals and described a plurality of half-mirrors is set at shell;

Utilize liquid light reactive resin to fill the second step of described shell;

27. a method of making photo-coupler according to claim 1 may further comprise the steps:

Utilize liquid light reactive resin to fill the second step of described shell;