JP2009116199A - Optical connector connecting method - Google Patents

Optical connector connecting method Download PDF

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JP2009116199A
JP2009116199A JP2007291283A JP2007291283A JP2009116199A JP 2009116199 A JP2009116199 A JP 2009116199A JP 2007291283 A JP2007291283 A JP 2007291283A JP 2007291283 A JP2007291283 A JP 2007291283A JP 2009116199 A JP2009116199 A JP 2009116199A
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optical
pair
optical connectors
connection
connectors
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Masaki Miyazawa
巨樹 宮澤
Shinji Nagasawa
真二 長沢
Norio Murata
則夫 村田
Akira Tomaru
暁 都丸
Kazuo Hokari
和男 保苅
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NTT Advanced Technology Corp
Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp
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NTT Advanced Technology Corp
Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp
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Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an optical connector connecting method, which causes no outflow of refractive index matching agent applied between connecting end surfaces of optical connectors for a long period after connection, and allows detachment of the optical connectors after connection while maintaining an appropriate connecting strength. <P>SOLUTION: The optical connector connecting method for butt-connecting a pair of optical connectors including one or more optical fiber end surfaces 1a aligned with connecting end surfaces 2a of the optical connectors and adhesively fixed thereto comprises: applying a hardener of silicone-based oil containing a catalyst such as platinum to at least one connecting end surface 2a of the pair of optical connectors; applying a main agent that is a silicone-based mixed solution including polyorganosiloxane and polyorganohydrogen siloxane to at least one connecting end surface of the pair of optical connectors, and mutually butting the connecting end surfaces of the pair optical connectors, thereby filling a silicone-based resin cured by reaction of the main agent with the hardener to a minute gap between the end surfaces of the pair of optical connectors. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

本発明は、単心及び多心の光ファイバが接続される光コネクタの接続方法に関する。   The present invention relates to an optical connector connection method in which single-core and multi-core optical fibers are connected.

光通信システムには様々の光コネクタが用いられている。これまで、多心の光ファイバテープを簡単に着脱するために、ＭＴ（mechanically Transferable）型光コネクタやプッシュ・プル操作で簡単に着脱できるＭＰＯ（Multi-fiber Push-On）型光コネクタ、現場で高速に組み立てることができる高速組立ＭＴ型コネクタなどが実用化されている。どちらの光コネクタも接続にはＭＴフェルールが用いられている。   Various optical connectors are used in optical communication systems. Up to now, MT (mechanically transferable) type optical connectors and MPO (Multi-fiber Push-On) type optical connectors that can be easily attached and removed by push-pull operation to easily attach and detach multi-fiber optical fiber tapes. High-speed assembly MT type connectors that can be assembled at high speed have been put into practical use. Both optical connectors use MT ferrules for connection.

ＭＴフェルールを用いた光コネクタは、接続する光ファイバ同士がガイドピンにより簡単に位置合わせする構造をとっており、その簡易性、大きさ、重量、コストなどの面で光ファイバネットワークを構築する為には大変有用な技術である。   The optical connector using the MT ferrule has a structure in which the optical fibers to be connected are easily aligned by the guide pins, and in order to construct an optical fiber network in terms of simplicity, size, weight, cost, etc. This is a very useful technology.

図１に一般的なＭＴ型コネクタの構成を示す。ＭＴ型光コネクタの構成を簡単に説明すると、多心又は単心の光ファイバテープ１がＭＴフェルール２に設けられた窓部分３から注入された接着剤４によって、ＭＴフェルール２と固定されている。また、光ファイバテープ１内の多心又は単心の光ファイバの先端部１ａはＭＴフェルール２の端面部分２ａから突き出した状態で接着固定され光コネクタ端面と共に研磨されている為、あるいはＭＴフェルール２の端面部分２ａと揃えて配置され接着固定されている。したがって、ＭＴフェルール２の端面部分２ａと光ファイバテープ内の光ファイバの先端部１ａは同一平面上にある。   FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a general MT type connector. The structure of the MT type optical connector will be briefly described. A multi-core or single-core optical fiber tape 1 is fixed to the MT ferrule 2 by an adhesive 4 injected from a window portion 3 provided on the MT ferrule 2. . Further, the end portion 1a of the multi-core or single-core optical fiber in the optical fiber tape 1 is bonded and fixed in a state of protruding from the end face portion 2a of the MT ferrule 2, and is polished together with the end face of the optical connector, or the MT ferrule 2 It is arranged in alignment with the end face part 2a of the adhesive and fixed by adhesion. Therefore, the end face portion 2a of the MT ferrule 2 and the tip portion 1a of the optical fiber in the optical fiber tape are on the same plane.

このＭＴ型コネクタ同士をＭＴフェルール端面部分２ａに設けられたガイドピン穴５ｂにガイドピン５ａを通すことで、ＭＴ型コネクタ同士はガイドピン５ａ及びガイドピン穴５ｂによって正しく配列され、クランプスプリングにより締結されて、光ファイバテープ１内の多芯又は単心の光ファイバ同士を正確かつ容易に接続することが可能となる。   By passing the guide pins 5a through the guide pin holes 5b provided in the MT ferrule end face portion 2a, the MT connectors are correctly arranged by the guide pins 5a and the guide pin holes 5b and fastened by a clamp spring. Thus, it is possible to accurately and easily connect the multi-core or single-core optical fibers in the optical fiber tape 1.

ＭＴ型コネクタ同士を接続する際には、ＭＴ型コネクタ接続面であるＭＴフェルール２の端面部分２ａ（本明細書中、接続端面ともいう。）にシリコーン系グリースを使用した屈折率整合剤を塗布する。もし、屈折率整合剤を使用しないでＭＴ型コネクタ同士を接続した場合、ＭＴ型コネクタ間に微小な間隙が生じ、光ファイバを構成する石英ガラスと空気との屈折率差によりフレネル反射が発生する。   When connecting the MT type connectors, a refractive index matching agent using silicone grease is applied to the end face portion 2a of the MT ferrule 2 (also referred to as a connection end face in the present specification) which is the MT type connector connecting face. To do. If MT connectors are connected without using a refractive index matching agent, a minute gap is generated between the MT connectors, and Fresnel reflection occurs due to a difference in refractive index between quartz glass constituting the optical fiber and air. .

そこでシリコーン系グリースを主成分とし、微小なガラス粉末であるフィラーを入れて屈折率を調整した屈折率整合剤を用いることにより、接続する光ファイバ間の微小な間隙が石英ガラスとほぼ同等の屈折率を有する屈折率整合剤で満たされ、フレネル反射を抑制している。   Therefore, by using a refractive index matching agent whose main component is silicone grease and the refractive index is adjusted by inserting a filler that is a minute glass powder, the minute gap between the optical fibers to be connected is almost equal to that of quartz glass. It is filled with a refractive index matching agent having a refractive index and suppresses Fresnel reflection.

しかしながら、屈折率整合剤は本質的にはシリコーン系グリースをベースとした液体であるため、水没状態での使用や長期間の経過により、ＭＴ型コネクタ接続部間から屈折率整合剤が流出してしまい、フレネル反射や光接続損失増大などの問題が発生してしまうという欠点があった。この屈折率整合剤の流出によって、ＭＴ型コネクタ間の隙間にゴミ等の異物が侵入してしまい、最悪の場合、光が伝播しないという事も起こりえる。   However, since the refractive index matching agent is essentially a liquid based on silicone grease, the refractive index matching agent may flow out between the MT-type connector connections due to use in a submerged state or for a long period of time. As a result, problems such as Fresnel reflection and increased optical connection loss occur. Due to the outflow of the refractive index matching agent, foreign matters such as dust enter the gaps between the MT connectors, and in the worst case, light may not propagate.

なお、屈折率を調整した接着剤により、コネクタ端面同士を張り合わせて完全固定し、屈折率整合剤の流出やゴミや異物の侵入を防ぐ方法も考えられるが、コネクタの性質上、取り外しや繋ぎ直しが容易でなければならない為、この方法はＭＴ型コネクタの接続には適さない上、固化時の変形により損失も増加する。   Although it is possible to attach the connector end faces together with an adhesive with adjusted refractive index and completely fix them to prevent the refractive index matching agent from leaking out and intrusion of dust and foreign materials, it is possible to remove or reconnect it due to the nature of the connector. However, this method is not suitable for the connection of the MT type connector, and the loss increases due to deformation during solidification.

また図２に側断面図を示す高速組立ＭＴコネクタの場合、予め高精度に切断された単心または多心の光ファイバの切断端面１ａを、光コネクタの接続端面２ａに揃えて配置し、接着固定しており、ＭＴフェルール２にある光ファイバ穴６の先端の微細孔部６ａと光ファイバの固定されていない部分に微妙な隙間が存在する。また、コネクタ組立の精度などにより、光ファイバ切断端面１ａが光コネクタ接続端面２ａに対し、光コネクタの内側へわずかに引っ込んでしまう場合があり、その部分にも微小な隙間が発生する。   In the case of the high-speed assembly MT connector whose side cross-sectional view is shown in FIG. 2, the cut end face 1a of a single-fiber or multi-core optical fiber cut with high precision in advance is aligned with the connection end face 2a of the optical connector and bonded. A fine gap exists between the fine hole portion 6a at the tip of the optical fiber hole 6 in the MT ferrule 2 and a portion where the optical fiber is not fixed. Further, depending on the accuracy of connector assembly, the optical fiber cut end face 1a may be slightly retracted to the inside of the optical connector with respect to the optical connector connecting end face 2a, and a minute gap is also generated in that portion.

このような状態で光コネクタ同士を接続した場合、接続箇所に空気が閉じ込められ、この空気が温度変化等によって膨張・収縮を繰り返すことで、光ファイバ心線の軸ずれ等が発生してしまう場合があり、安定した長期信頼性が得られないという問題点がある。   When optical connectors are connected in such a state, the air is trapped at the connection location, and the air fiber is repeatedly expanded and contracted due to a temperature change or the like, causing an optical fiber core misalignment, etc. There is a problem that stable long-term reliability cannot be obtained.

特開昭５２−７６３４４号公報（第１−６頁）JP 52-76344 A (pages 1-6) 特開昭５８−４５１４０号公報（第１−２頁）JP 58-45140 A (page 1-2) 特表２００１−５０５２３５号公報（第２−７頁）JP-T-2001-505235 (page 2-7) 特開２００４−３１７９２６号公報JP 2004-317926 A 特開２００４−３１５７１０号公報JP 2004-315710 A 特開昭５６−１１０９１２号公報Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 56-110912 特開昭５６−８１８０７号公報JP 56-81807 A 特開平１０−１１１４２９号公報JP-A-10-111429 特開２０００−２１９６９４号公報JP 2000-219694 A 特開２０００−２１２１８６号公報JP 2000-212186 A 特開平１１−２８１８４６号公報Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-281846

前述したように、従来のＭＴ型コネクタ同士を接続する際に用いる屈折率整合剤は本質的にはシリコーン系グリースをベースとした液体であるため、使用条件や期間によってはコネクタ接続部間から屈折率整合剤が流出してしまう。そして、流出の際にゴミ等の異物が侵入してしまう事も起こりえる。   As described above, since the refractive index matching agent used when connecting conventional MT connectors is essentially a liquid based on silicone grease, it is refracted from between the connector connection parts depending on the use conditions and period. Rate matching agent will flow out. In addition, foreign matter such as dust may enter during the outflow.

また、高精度に切断された光ファイバ端面と光コネクタ接続端面が揃えて配置されている。光コネクタの接続においては、光コネクタ内に微小な隙間が存在し、光コネクタ接続箇所の内部に閉じ込められた空気が、温度変化により膨張・収縮を繰り返し、長期信頼性が得られないという問題もある。   In addition, the optical fiber end face and the optical connector connecting end face that are cut with high precision are arranged to be aligned. When connecting optical connectors, there is a problem that there are minute gaps in the optical connector, and the air trapped inside the optical connector connection area repeatedly expands and contracts due to temperature changes, and long-term reliability cannot be obtained. is there.

屈折率整合剤が流動しないように完全に接着固定するという事も考えられるが、前述したようにコネクタという性質上、取り外しが可能でなければならない為、接着固定するのは好ましくない。   Although it is conceivable that the refractive index matching agent is completely bonded and fixed so that it does not flow, it is not preferable to bond and fix it because it must be removable due to the nature of the connector as described above.

さらに、光コネクタ内の空気の隙間がそのまま存在するため、長期信頼性は解消されない。   Furthermore, since there is an air gap in the optical connector as it is, long-term reliability is not eliminated.

本発明は上記課題に鑑みてなされたもので、コネクタの接続後、長期間流出せず異物なども侵入しない上に、適度な接続強度を保ちつつ接続後に取り外し可能な光コネクタの接続方法を提供する事を目的とする。   The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides a method for connecting an optical connector that does not flow out for a long period of time after a connector is connected and does not intrude foreign matter, and that can be removed after connection while maintaining an appropriate connection strength. The purpose is to do.

上記課題を解決する本発明に係る光コネクタ接続方法は、予め高精度に切断された単心または多心の光ファイバの端面が、光コネクタの接続端面に揃えて配置され接着固定された一対の光コネクタ同士を突合せて接続する際に、初めにその両方の光コネクタの接続端面に白金などの触媒を含有するシリコーン系オイルの硬化剤を塗布し、次にその一方の光コネクタの接続端面にポリオルガノシロキサンとポリオルガノハイドロジェンシロキサンを含むシリコーン系混合溶液である主剤を塗布し、その後に２つの光コネクタの接続端面同士を突合せて、光コネクタの接続端面の間の微小な隙間に、上記の主剤と硬化剤の反応で硬化したシリコーン系樹脂を充填することを特徴とする。   An optical connector connection method according to the present invention that solves the above-described problem is a pair of optical fiber end faces that have been cut with high precision in advance and are aligned and bonded to the connection end face of the optical connector. When connecting optical connectors together, first, apply a hardener of silicone oil containing a catalyst such as platinum to the connection end faces of both optical connectors, and then apply the connection end face of one of the optical connectors. Apply the main agent which is a silicone-based mixed solution containing polyorganosiloxane and polyorganohydrogensiloxane, then butt the connection end faces of the two optical connectors together, and in the minute gap between the connection end faces of the optical connector, It is characterized by filling a silicone resin cured by the reaction of the main agent and the curing agent.

上記課題を解決する本発明に係る光コネクタ接続方法は、単心または多心の光ファイバの端面が光コネクタの接続端面から突き出すように配置され接着固定された後に当該接続端面から突き出した光ファイバの端面を光コネクタの接続端面とが共に研磨された一対の光コネクタ同士を突合せて接続する際に、初めにその一方または両方の光コネクタの接続端面に白金などの触媒を含有するシリコーン系オイルの硬化剤を塗布し、次にその一方の光コネクタ端面にポリオルガノシロキサンとポリオルガノハイドロジェンシロキサンを含むシリコーン系混合溶液である主剤を塗布し、その後に２つの光コネクタ同士を突合せて、光コネクタ端面の間の微小な隙間に、上記の主剤と硬化剤の反応で硬化したシリコーン系樹脂を充填することを特徴とする。   The optical connector connecting method according to the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is an optical fiber protruding from the connection end face after the end face of the single-fiber or multi-core optical fiber is arranged and bonded and fixed so as to protrude from the connection end face of the optical connector. When a pair of optical connectors whose end surfaces are polished together with the connection end surfaces of the optical connectors are butted together, first, a silicone-based oil containing a catalyst such as platinum on the connection end surfaces of one or both of the optical connectors Next, the main component, which is a silicone-based mixed solution containing polyorganosiloxane and polyorganohydrogensiloxane, is applied to the end face of one of the optical connectors, and then the two optical connectors are butted together. It is characterized by filling a small gap between the connector end faces with a silicone resin cured by the reaction of the main agent and the curing agent. That.

上記課題を解決する本発明に係る光コネクタ接続方法は、硬化剤の粘度を２００ｃＰ以下とし、主剤の粘度を３００ｃＰ以上とし、硬化後の樹脂の接着強度を０．５ｋｇｆ／ｃｍ2としたことを特徴とする。 The optical connector connection method according to the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is that the viscosity of the curing agent is 200 cP or less, the viscosity of the main agent is 300 cP or more, and the adhesive strength of the cured resin is 0.5 kgf / cm 2. Features.

以上説明したように、本発明では、光コネクタの接続端面同士の接続を行う際にポリオルガノシロキサンとポリオルガノハイドロジェンシロキサンを含むシリコーン系混合溶液（主剤）と白金などの触媒を含有するシリコーン系オイル（硬化剤）の２液による接触硬化で固体化する屈折率整合剤を光コネクタ接続間に用いることで、接続損失・フレネル反射、温度変化に対する接続損失の変動に関しては従来と同等以上の性能を有しつつ、水に流れ出さず、屈折率整合剤が流動せず、光コネクタ間の微小な隙間に異物の侵入を防ぐ事ができ、外部環境の変化に対して高い信頼性を有する光コネクタ接続を行う事ができる。更に、接続後も取り外しが容易であり、再接続も可能である。   As described above, in the present invention, a silicone-based mixed solution (main agent) containing polyorganosiloxane and polyorganohydrogensiloxane and a catalyst such as platinum is used in connecting the connection end faces of the optical connector. By using a refractive index matching agent that solidifies by contact curing with two liquids of oil (curing agent) between optical connector connections, the connection loss, Fresnel reflection, and connection loss fluctuations due to temperature changes are equivalent to or better than conventional ones. Light that does not flow out into water, does not flow into the refractive index matching agent, can prevent foreign matter from entering the minute gaps between the optical connectors, and has high reliability against changes in the external environment. Connector connection can be made. Furthermore, it can be easily removed after connection, and can be reconnected.

本発明は、研磨組立ＭＴ型コネクタや高速組立ＭＴ型コネクタなどの光コネクタを接続するにあたり、主剤と硬化剤の反応で半ゲル状に硬化するシリコーン系樹脂を用いる事で、従来の屈折率整合剤が液体状で流出するという問題点を解決し、長期信頼性の高い光コネクタ接続方法を実現するものである。このような特徴を有する本発明に係る光コネクタ接続方法の実施の形態例を、以下に図を用いて詳細に説明する。   In the present invention, when connecting an optical connector such as a polished assembly MT connector or a high-speed assembly MT connector, a conventional refractive index matching is achieved by using a silicone-based resin that is cured in a semi-gel form by the reaction between the main agent and the curing agent. It solves the problem that the agent flows out in a liquid state, and realizes an optical connector connection method with high long-term reliability. Embodiments of the optical connector connecting method according to the present invention having such characteristics will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

本発明で使用する屈折率整合剤は室温硬化型の２液接触反応型のシリコーン系樹脂を用いている。主剤と硬化剤の２液を一定の比率で混ぜる事により硬化する。硬化後の屈折率整合剤の硬度はショアＡで４以上となるようにフィラーを入れて調整する。また、以下に説明するように、硬化剤は粘度が１０以上２００ｃＰ以下とし、主剤は粘度が３００以上３００００ｃＰ以下とし、硬化後の樹脂の接着強度が０．１以上０．５ｋｇｆ／ｃｍ2以下となるように調整する。 The refractive index matching agent used in the present invention is a room temperature curing type two-liquid contact reaction type silicone resin. It is cured by mixing two liquids of the main agent and curing agent at a certain ratio. The hardness of the refractive index matching agent after curing is adjusted by adding a filler so that the hardness of Shore A is 4 or more. Further, as described below, the curing agent has a viscosity of 10 to 200 cP, the main agent has a viscosity of 300 to 30000 cP, and the adhesive strength of the cured resin is 0.1 to 0.5 kgf / cm 2 or less. Adjust so that

これにより、硬化後のＭＴ型コネクタ取り外しと接続端面の清掃が容易になり、適度な接続強度を確保しつつ、長期的に屈折率整合剤が流出するのを防ぐことができる。また、反応後は硬化する為、水などで流れ出す事がない。   This facilitates removal of the MT-type connector after curing and cleaning of the connection end face, and can prevent the refractive index matching agent from flowing out in the long term while ensuring an appropriate connection strength. Moreover, since it hardens | cures after reaction, it does not flow out with water etc.

この屈折率整合剤を光コネクタに塗る方法は２通りある。１つの方法は、初めに両方の光コネクタ端面に白金触媒を含有するシリコーン系オイル（硬化剤）を塗布し、次にどちらか一方の光コネクタ端面にポリオルガノシロキサンとポリオルガノハイドロジェンシロキサンを含むシリコーン系混合溶液（主剤）を塗布し、その２つの光コネクタ同士を突き合わせる事で、２液を接触反応させる方法である。もう１つの方法は、片方の光コネクタ端面に白金触媒を含有するシリコーン系オイル（硬化剤）を塗布し、次にもう片方の光コネクタ端面にポリオルガノシロキサンとポリオルガノハイドロジェンシロキサンを含むシリコーン系混合溶液（主剤）を塗布し、その２つの光コネクタ同士を突き合わせる事で、２液を接触反応させる方法である。なお、本実施形態では、触媒として白金化合物を用いた例を示すが、シリコーン系オイルとシリコーン系混合溶液との反応速度を増加させる触媒であれば、有機錫化合物やアミノキシ化合物などを触媒として用いても本発明を実施することができる。   There are two methods for applying the refractive index matching agent to the optical connector. One method is to first apply a silicone-based oil (curing agent) containing a platinum catalyst to both optical connector end faces, and then include polyorganosiloxane and polyorganohydrogensiloxane on either optical connector end face. This is a method in which a silicone-based mixed solution (main agent) is applied and the two optical connectors are brought into contact with each other to cause the two liquids to contact each other. Another method is to apply a silicone-based oil (curing agent) containing a platinum catalyst to one optical connector end face, and then to a silicone system containing polyorganosiloxane and polyorganohydrogensiloxane on the other optical connector end face. This is a method in which a mixed solution (main agent) is applied and the two optical connectors are brought into contact with each other to cause the two liquids to contact each other. In this embodiment, an example in which a platinum compound is used as a catalyst is shown. However, an organic tin compound, an aminoxy compound, or the like is used as a catalyst as long as it is a catalyst that increases the reaction rate between a silicone-based oil and a silicone-based mixed solution. However, the present invention can be implemented.

高速組立ＭＴコネクタでは、図２のように、予め高精度に切断された単心または多心の光ファイバの端面１ａ（径が１２５μｍ）を、光コネクタの接続端面２ａに揃えて配置して接着固定しているので、光コネクタの接続端面２ａの近傍における光ファイバ穴６ａ（径が１２６μｍ）において、フェルール２と光ファイバ１が接着されておらず、微小な隙間が存在する。このような微小な隙間が存在する光コネクタの場合には、先に接続端面２ａに硬化剤を塗布する事で、光コネクタ内に存在する微小な隙間にある空気を排除し、温度変化による空気の膨張・収縮を防ぐことができる。また、微小の隙間に硬化剤が充填できるように硬化剤の粘度を１０以上２００ｃＰ以下に低くしている。一方で、研磨組立ＭＴ型コネクタのような、光ファイバを光コネクタの接続端面２ａから突き出すように配置して接着固定し、突き出した光ファイバ端面１ａを光コネクタ端面２ａと共に研磨したコネクタの場合、光ファイバ穴６ａにおける微小な隙間は存在しない為、硬化剤はどちらか片方の接続端面２ａに塗布すればよい。接続する２つのコネクタの一方が高速組立ＭＴ型コネクタで、他方が研磨組立ＭＴ型コネクタの場合、高速組立ＭＴ型コネクタの接続端面に硬化剤を塗ればよい。   In the high-speed assembly MT connector, as shown in FIG. 2, a single-core or multi-core optical fiber end face 1a (having a diameter of 125 μm) that has been cut with high precision in advance is aligned with the connection end face 2a of the optical connector and bonded. Since they are fixed, the ferrule 2 and the optical fiber 1 are not bonded to each other in the optical fiber hole 6a (diameter: 126 μm) in the vicinity of the connection end surface 2a of the optical connector, and a minute gap exists. In the case of an optical connector having such a minute gap, by applying a curing agent to the connection end surface 2a first, air in the minute gap existing in the optical connector is eliminated, and air due to temperature change is removed. Can be prevented from expanding and contracting. Moreover, the viscosity of the curing agent is lowered to 10 to 200 cP so that the minute gap can be filled with the curing agent. On the other hand, in the case of a connector such as a polished assembly MT type connector in which an optical fiber is disposed so as to protrude from the connection end surface 2a of the optical connector and bonded and fixed, and the protruding optical fiber end surface 1a is polished together with the optical connector end surface 2a. Since there is no minute gap in the optical fiber hole 6a, the curing agent may be applied to one of the connection end faces 2a. When one of the two connectors to be connected is a high-speed assembly MT type connector and the other is a polishing assembly MT type connector, a curing agent may be applied to the connection end face of the high-speed assembly MT type connector.

なお、主剤の粘度を３００以上３００００ｃＰ以下としたのは、光ファイバ接続前に主剤が垂れるのを防ぎ、作業効率を上げるために粘度を高くしている。主剤には石英ガラス粉末のフィラーを入れる事で、粘度を調整する事ができる。   The reason why the viscosity of the main agent is set to 300 to 30000 cP is to increase the viscosity in order to prevent the main agent from drooping before the optical fiber is connected and to increase work efficiency. Viscosity can be adjusted by adding a filler of quartz glass powder to the main agent.

また、接着強度を０．１以上０．５ｋｇｆ／ｃｍ2以下としているのは適度な接続強度を保ちつつ接続後に取り外し可能な接着強度とするためである。接着強度の調整は、シリコーンの中でも分子量が上がらないものを選別する事で調整している。実際に硬化させた後の光コネクタの取り外しを行い、清掃をおこなって再度接続し、接続損失をする実験の測定結果を図３に示す。接着強度が０．５ｋｇｆ／ｃｍ2以上の接着強度を示す材料では樹脂をきれいにはがすことはできず、コネクタ損失も最初に接続した損失値よりも０．５ｄＢ以上増加してしまった。 The reason why the adhesive strength is 0.1 or more and 0.5 kgf / cm 2 or less is that the adhesive strength can be removed after the connection while maintaining an appropriate connection strength. The adhesive strength is adjusted by selecting a silicone whose molecular weight does not increase. FIG. 3 shows the measurement results of an experiment in which the optical connector after actual curing is removed, cleaned, reconnected, and connection loss occurs. With a material having an adhesive strength of 0.5 kgf / cm 2 or more, the resin could not be removed cleanly, and the connector loss increased by 0.5 dB or more from the loss value of the first connection.

次に、従来の屈折率整合剤を用いた接続方法と、本発明の接続方法を比較するため、高速組立ＭＴ型コネクタ（４心）同士を接続した時の初期特性（接続損失、反射減衰量）を測定した結果を図４に示す。測定手順は、従来の屈折率整合剤で接続・測定したのち、同じコネクタを清掃後、本発明の方法で接続・測定した。図４から明らかなように、初期特性に関しては、従来の整合剤と同等以上の性能を有している事が確認された。   Next, in order to compare the connection method using the conventional refractive index matching agent and the connection method of the present invention, initial characteristics (connection loss, return loss) when high-speed assembly MT connectors (4 cores) are connected to each other. The results of measuring the For the measurement procedure, after connecting and measuring with a conventional refractive index matching agent, the same connector was cleaned and then connected and measured by the method of the present invention. As is clear from FIG. 4, it was confirmed that the initial characteristics had performance equal to or higher than that of the conventional matching agent.

最後に、従来の屈折率整合剤を用いた接続方法と、本発明の接続方法の特性を確認するため、高速組立ＭＴ型コネクタ（４心）同士を接続した時の温度サイクル試験を行った。温度はマイナス４０℃〜７０℃、１サイクルあたり６時間、合計１０サイクル（６０時間）実施した。測定結果を図５、図６に示す。図５は従来の屈折率整合剤を使用した場合、図６は本発明の方法による。図５、図６から明らかなように、特性はこれまでの屈折率整合剤を用いた場合と同等であり、設計規格に対して十分小さい損失変動であり、安定した特性であることが確認できた。   Finally, in order to confirm the characteristics of the connection method using the conventional refractive index matching agent and the connection method of the present invention, a temperature cycle test was performed when high-speed assembly MT type connectors (four cores) were connected. The temperature was minus 40 ° C. to 70 ° C., 6 hours per cycle, for a total of 10 cycles (60 hours). The measurement results are shown in FIGS. FIG. 5 shows a case where a conventional refractive index matching agent is used, and FIG. 6 shows a method according to the present invention. As is clear from FIGS. 5 and 6, the characteristics are the same as those obtained when the refractive index matching agent is used, and the loss fluctuation is sufficiently small with respect to the design standard, and it can be confirmed that the characteristics are stable. It was.

以上の結果から、本発明の接続方法を用いた場合、従来と同等の特性を有しつつ、屈折率整合剤が流れ出さず、異物の侵入を防ぎつつ、長期信頼性の高い接続を提供できることが確認された。   From the above results, when the connection method of the present invention is used, it is possible to provide a long-term reliable connection while having the same characteristics as the conventional one, without causing the refractive index matching agent to flow out, and preventing foreign matter from entering. Was confirmed.

ＭＴ型コネクタの斜視図である。It is a perspective view of MT type connector. 高速組立ＭＴ型コネクタの側断面図である。It is a sectional side view of a high-speed assembly MT type connector. 接着強度と接続損失増加の関係を表したグラフである。It is a graph showing the relationship between adhesive strength and connection loss increase. 従来の屈折率整合剤での接続と、本発明での接続の初期特性の比較である。It is a comparison of the initial characteristic of the connection in the conventional refractive index matching agent and the connection in the present invention. 従来の屈折率整合剤で接続した時の温度サイクルのグラフである。It is a graph of the temperature cycle when it connects with the conventional refractive index matching agent. 本発明で接続した時の温度サイクルのグラフである。It is a graph of the temperature cycle when it connects by this invention.

符号の説明Explanation of symbols

１ 光ファイバテープ
１ａ 光ファイバ先端部
２ ＭＴフェルール
２ａ ＭＴフェルール端面
３ ＭＴフェルール窓
４ 接着剤
５ａ ガイドピン
５ｂ ガイドピン穴
６ 光ファイバ穴
６ａ 微細孔部
６ｂ 光ファイバ設置部 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Optical fiber tape 1a Optical fiber front-end | tip part 2 MT ferrule 2a MT ferrule end surface 3 MT ferrule window 4 Adhesive 5a Guide pin 5b Guide pin hole 6 Optical fiber hole 6a Fine hole part 6b Optical fiber installation part

Claims (3)

１つまたは複数の予め高精度に切断された光ファイバの端面が光コネクタの接続端面に揃えて配置され接着固定された一対の光コネクタ同士を突合せて接続する光コネクタ接続方法において、
前記一対の光コネクタの接続端面の各々に触媒を含有するシリコーン系オイルの硬化剤を塗布し、前記硬化剤を塗布した接続端面の一方にポリオルガノシロキサンとポリオルガノハイドロジェンシロキサンとを含むシリコーン系混合溶液である主剤を塗布し、前記一対の光コネクタの接続端面同士を突合せて、前記一対の光コネクタの接続端面の間の微小な隙間に前記主剤と前記硬化剤とが反応して硬化したシリコーン系樹脂を充填することを特徴とする光コネクタ接続方法。 In an optical connector connection method of connecting a pair of optical connectors, in which one or a plurality of optical fibers that have been cut with high precision in advance are aligned and bonded to the connection end surface of the optical connector,
A silicone-based oil curing agent containing a catalyst is applied to each of the connection end surfaces of the pair of optical connectors, and one of the connection end surfaces to which the curing agent is applied includes a polyorganosiloxane and a polyorganohydrogensiloxane. The main agent, which is a mixed solution, was applied, the connection end surfaces of the pair of optical connectors were butted together, and the main agent and the curing agent reacted and cured in a minute gap between the connection end surfaces of the pair of optical connectors. An optical connector connection method comprising filling a silicone resin. １つまたは複数の光ファイバの端面が光コネクタの接続端面から突き出すように配置され接着固定されて前記光ファイバの端面と前記光コネクタの接続端面とが共に研磨された一対の光コネクタ同士を突合せて接続する光コネクタ接続方法において、
前記一対の光コネクタの接続端面の少なくとも一方に触媒を含有するシリコーン系オイルの硬化剤を塗布し、前記一対の光コネクタの接続端面の一方にポリオルガノシロキサンとポリオルガノハイドロジェンシロキサンを含むシリコーン系混合溶液である主剤を塗布し、前記一対の光コネクタの接続端面同士を突合せて、前記一対の光コネクタの端面端面の間の微小な隙間に前記主剤と前記硬化剤とが反応して硬化したシリコーン系樹脂を充填することを特徴とする光コネクタ接続方法。 A pair of optical connectors in which one or a plurality of optical fiber end faces protrude from the connection end face of the optical connector, are bonded and fixed, and the end face of the optical fiber and the connection end face of the optical connector are polished together. In the optical connector connection method to connect
A silicone-based curing agent containing a catalyst is applied to at least one of the connection end faces of the pair of optical connectors, and a silicone system containing polyorganosiloxane and polyorganohydrogensiloxane on one of the connection end faces of the pair of optical connectors. The main agent, which is a mixed solution, was applied, the connection end surfaces of the pair of optical connectors were butted together, and the main agent and the curing agent reacted and cured in a minute gap between the end surface end surfaces of the pair of optical connectors. An optical connector connection method comprising filling a silicone resin. 前記硬化剤の粘度を２００ｃＰ以下とし、前記主剤の粘度を３００ｃＰ以上とし、前記シリコーン系樹脂の接着強度を０．５ｋｇｆ／ｃｍ2以下としたことを特徴とする請求項１または２に記載の光コネクタ接続方法。 3. The light according to claim 1, wherein the viscosity of the curing agent is 200 cP or less, the viscosity of the main agent is 300 cP or more, and the adhesive strength of the silicone resin is 0.5 kgf / cm 2 or less. Connector connection method.
JP2007291283A 2007-11-08 2007-11-08 Optical connector connecting method Pending JP2009116199A (en)

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