JPH06501572A - fiber optic switch - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] This bulletin contains application data before electronic filing, so abstract data is not recorded.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention] fiber optic switch Leather construction 1 The present invention switches an optical fiber from a first groove to a second groove by a switching force. In particular, switches that apply switching forces directly to the fiber Regarding the

The description in this specification is based on U.S. Patent Application No. 071586, which is the basis of the priority of this application. ．． No. 822, with reference to the number of that U.S. patent application. By reference, the contents of the specification of the U.S. patent application may constitute a part of the present specification. shall be configured.

Brother Yoo” Current fiber optic communication systems are used to transmit information within local area networks. Single mode or multimode fiber optic cables are used for transmission. Sui By providing a switch, the optical path within the network can be switched to specify one or more specific It is possible to send information directly to the unit or bypass certain units. become. Switches used for this purpose require a large number of switching cycles. High reliability is achieved through the It has to be something special.

Various shapes of optical fiber switches are known. Optical device in the optical path There is also a switch device that can perform a switching function by placing it on the switch. Assigned to the same assignee as the main application Pending Application No. 07/452.147 filed December 18, 1989 ( ED-0385) uses a moving block element to transfer from one fiber to another. Discloses switching light into a fiber or into an off position.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,790,621 (Calaby et al.) uses a movable prism. to switch light from one fiber to another. U.S. Patent No. 4.2 No. 61,638 (Wagner) uses a reflective member to switch light to another optical path. The company discloses information regarding the

Some mechanical switching devices are also known. In such devices, optical fibers is fixed to a movable member and physically moves the movable member from a first position to a second position. Switch the optical path by moving the U.S. patents assigned to the same assignee as the present application. No. 4,911.520 (Lee), the fiber is mounted along the distal edge. It uses a cantilevered tongue-shaped member made of glass. The first and second fibers are the same It is mounted along the edge of the fixed block. Place this glass member in the first position. When moved from one position to a second position, the fibers above it contain the first fixed fiber. located in a second optical path including another fixed fiber, off the first optical path containing the fixed fiber.

The optical fiber of U.S. Pat. No. 4,407,562 (Young) is It is fixed in a groove formed on the outer surface of the plug. By changing the position of the housing, Switching operations are performed by changing the relative positions of the fiber arrays. movable housing Use the alignment grooves to align the case containing the ring and housing. It is done using In U.S. Pat. No. 4,896,937 (Kraetsch et al.) , a V-groove is formed in each of the bottom surface of the housing and the cover. The switching operation is Moving the thin ferromagnetic plate with the fiber attached to one of the two V-grooves. This can be achieved with

No. 4,759,597 (Lemonde), a magnetic rocker arm Installing optical fiber. When the rocker arm is rotated, this fiber moves upward. move between fibers fixed in grooves formed in each of the upper and lower support slabs. do.

In the mechanical switches described above, in addition to most of the actuating elements, the fiber-mounted Switching operations are performed by also moving the material. This part has dimensions and weight Because they are thicker (and heavier) than optical fibers, there is a limit to the switching speed of such devices. Ru.

U.S. Patent No. 4,946,236 (Dautartas et al.) A switch is disclosed that adds λ to the fiber itself. This switch has a magnetic sleeve An elongated rhombus containing a number of enclosed fibers and extending from one end of the block to the other. The fibers are placed in grooves formed by the corners of the internal channel. generates a magnetic field and move the fiber from one corner of the groove to the other.

In view of the above, the insertion loss is low even after repeated use (and the switching time is also relatively low). In addition to being short, only a minimum amount of fiber (in addition to the actuating element) is moved for switching operation. There would be an advantage in providing a fiber optic switch that can Ru.

1-Natsuji The present invention relates to an optical fiber switch equipped with a substrate having a block portion. this The block has at least first and second grooves formed on its surface. light fu The fiber has a predetermined first portion along its length near its end face, and this first portion is It is housed in one groove. The fiber axis of this predetermined first portion is relative to the axis of the groove. 7 and forming a predetermined positive angle. The piascus acting on the optical fiber is The fiber is biased in a direction that forces a predetermined first portion of the bar against the bottom of the groove. Part 1 A predetermined second portion of the fiber located at a distance behind the minute is provided on the ramp. As a result, the fiber ahead of this portion is bent. fiber Bending causes piasca. The surface of the ramp is at an angle of 5° to 1° to the substrate. Preferably, it is within an angular range of 5°. Grooves may be formed on the ramp if necessary. .

The switching member reciprocates from a first position to a second position with respect to the substrate. Movement of switching member (The direction is generally the direction that intersects the pie-scar direction, and the switch is made while moving.) The member operatively engages the fiber. This allows a given first section of fiber to moves out of one groove against the piasca and enters the other groove. If the fiber position changes When this happens, a piascus acts on this fiber, and a predetermined first portion of the fiber is infiltrated. It is pressed against the bottom of the groove. In one preferred embodiment, the switching member is a rocker member. It takes the form of a yoke connected to a drive solenoid via a swingable member.

This yoke is located inside the fiber between the ramp and the grooved block. operatively engages the intervening portion.

The switch according to the present invention is an IX2 switch, a 2X2 switch, a cross-type switch, etc. It can be applied to various switches.

[Exhibit! left friend The invention will now be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this application. You will be able to further deepen your understanding.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view schematically showing an optical fiber switch element according to the present invention. It is believed that the principle of the present invention can be understood from the figure. In the same figure, the switching member is 1, the fiber is shown in the first groove.

FIG. 1B is a view similar to FIG. 1A, but with the switching member in the second position and the The bar is shown residing in the second groove.

Figure 1C is a plan view of the switching member shown in Figures 1A and 1B; The fiber is shown with the fiber removed for clarity.

FIG. 1D is a partially cutaway side view of the switching member shown in FIG. 1A, and FIG. 1E is a side view of the switching member shown in FIG. It is an enlarged view of a part of the figure.

FIG. 1F is a front view of the portion indicated by line IF--IF in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is a diagram similar to FIG. 1A showing a portion of a switch, including a large number of optical fibers. To further explain the principle of the switch according to the invention in the situation of switching between This is a diagram. The illustrated switch shown with the switching member is in the first position and the illustrated switch is in the first position. The movable fibers are each housed in a first groove. On the other hand, Figure 2B is the same as Figure 2A. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the switching member in the second position and the movable fibers each being cut into a second groove; It is in a state where it has been replaced.

Figures 3A and 3B are similar to Figures 2A and 2B, respectively; The present invention relates to a cross-type switching device for switching λ between several optical fibers. The minimum required distance between the arms of the yoke of the switching member used in SWITCH switches. It is a diagram showing space.

5A to 5C each show a practical device to which the switch according to the present invention is applied. FIG. 2 is a perspective view, a plan view, and a sectional view showing the configuration of the device.

How to spend the day Throughout the following detailed description, similar elements are referred to in all drawings. are given the same reference numerals.

The various components shown in FIG. 1 schematically shows the basic elements of a switch 10 according to the present invention. switch 10 The configuration will be described in detail later with reference to other figures. Multiple figures in Figure 1 The planes are intended to clearly illustrate the basic configuration and operation of switch 10.

The switch 10 switches at least one optical fiber 12 from a first position to at least a second position. It works like switching. As described later, the optical fiber 12 is connected to one side and/or the other side. is arranged so that it is optically connected to the identified optical fiber F1 or F2 at both positions. It is also possible to

The movable fiber 12 may be a single mode optical fiber or a multimode optical fiber. It is generally made of fused silica glass or plastic. Phi The bar 12 has a predetermined diameter. Figures 1A and 1B.

In Figures 1D, 1E, and 1F, Koaino\12 has removed the jacket. It is shown with all the parts removed. Therefore, the diameter is around the core of the fiber. Corresponds to the diameter of the sum of Kura and Sod. For single mode core ino (directly The diameter is generally about 125 μm.

Switch 10 includes a substrate 14 and a force R-16 corresponding to substrate 14. cover 1 6 is only schematically shown in FIG. 1D, but is interconnected with the substrate 14. It may be in any shape as long as it is convenient. Place the bracket <- on the board 14. When coupled, the switch 10 is closed and the internal components can be protected.

The base plate 14 includes a pro-block portion 18 provided at the front of the base plate 14. block 18 may be fixed to the substrate 14, or it may be constructed integrally with the substrate as shown in the figure. You can. The block 18 has a top surface 18T, a front surface 18F, and a rear surface 18R. Ru. The axial length of block 18 is indicated by reference numeral 18L (FIG. 1D).

At least first and second open grooves 20 and 22 are formed on the top surface 18T. to be accomplished. Due to the grooves 20 and 22, at least the rear surface 18R of the block 18 is It cuts off inside. These grooves 20 and 22 are blocked with a predetermined constant axial length. 18 extends in the axial direction. In the most preferred embodiment, grooves 20 and and 22 extend from end to end of the axial length 18L of the block 18, thereby The 118F in front of the block 18 is also interrupted in the middle. If necessary, adjacent grooves 20 It is also possible to provide a flat central portion 18M between and 22.

In a preferred embodiment, each of grooves 20 and 22 is V-shaped, with each It has side walls 20W, 20W2 and 22W, 22W2. Depending on the case In this case, the side walls of the valley grooves are tapered toward the sharp bottoms 20B and 22B. (It is also possible that each of the grooves 20 and 22 extend longitudinally from one end to the other. It has axes 20A and 22A. Axis 2OA and grooves 20 and 22 respectively and 22A are on the same straight line as the bottom of the valley groove.

As is clear from the drawing, all of the side walls of the groove adjacent to both lateral ends of the switch 10 The two side walls extend longer above the center side wall of the groove.

Therefore, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the side wall 20W1 and the side wall 22W2 are It will be understood that the side walls 20W2 and 22W closer to the center are taller (extended).

As will become more apparent below, according to the invention, within each groove a fiber 12 When a be done. To accurately position the fiber using a V-groove, the fiber and A minimum of two point contacts with the side walls of the groove must be ensured.

Each of the bottoms 20B and 22B of grooves 20 and 22 has a block It is located in the part where 18 is cut. Generally speaking, the depth of grooves 20 and 22 is Point contact with the wall at least two places must be ensured to ensure accurate positioning of the fiber. Must be. Therefore, in practice, a 90° Va is used for a large number of moving fibers. In the case of the switch used, the block has a groove with a depth approximately equal to the radius of the fiber 12. form. If only one movable fiber is used, as shown in Figure 1. Thus, the depth 30 (Fig. 1F) can be made approximately equal to the diameter of the fiber. Ru. Additionally, although not necessarily necessary in practice, all grooves should be of the same depth. Oh (and good.

In the preferred embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 1C, grooves 20 and and 22 axes 20A and 22A are arranged parallel to each other at a distance of 32. Ru. Make this distance at least slightly longer than the diameter of the fiber 12 so that This prevents the fibers from coming into contact with each other when they are placed. interval 32 The exact dimensions will be explained later (Figure 4), but only one movable fiber is used. If not (Fig. 1), the separation distance 32 is large enough to use multiple movable fibers. There are no strict restrictions when doing so. Shafts 20A of grooves 20 and 22 and It is the intention of the present invention that 22A be arranged so as to form a predetermined angle (approximately 1°). By the way.

The fiber 12 preferably has a first end face 12EC formed by cutting the fiber 12. Figure E). Actually, the end face 12E has 174 wavelengths made of magnesium fluoride. Apply a suitable anti-reflection coating such as a thick film.

The fiber 12 has a predetermined first portion 12F (perhaps a first portion) near its end face 12E. D and 1E), and has a predetermined second portion 12. R (perhaps best shown in Figure 1D) from the first section 12F. A predetermined distance away from each other. The first portion 12F of the fiber 12 is a block 18 is shown extending between the rear surface L8R and the end surface L2E. fiber The first portion 12F of 12 has a central axis 12A (FIG. 1E) extending in the length direction. are doing.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, each of the two stationary optical fibers F1 and F2 is It is fixed so that it does not come off from the grooves 20 and 22. For example, Connecticut Dyma mater in Torrington, Conn. Guimax sold by Dymax Corporation Use a UV-curable resin such as Dymax 305 to Fibers F1 and F2 are fixed to another block 30 (shown in dashed lines in Figure 1D). may be set.

Also in Danbury, Connecticut.

Corporation under product number 82001-ELC-4480. suitable as an adhesive. Furthermore, the movable fiber in the groove is 12 of the fixed fiber, being careful not to let the adhesive seep out where it will be placed. 0 and 22 are also fixed to block 18. Block 30 is , attached to or integrally formed with the substrate 14. Fiber F1 Also, an antireflection coating as described above may be provided on the cut end surface of F2.

Of course, if a simple 0N10FF switch is sufficient, the fixed fiber F1 or and F2 may be omitted.

In the first switching position (FIG. 1A), the predetermined first portion 12F of the fiber 12 is in one of the grooves 20 and 22. Not completely visible in Figure 1B However, in the second switching position the same predetermined first portion 12F of the fiber 12 is in the groove 20. and the other of 22. At each switching position, the end face of the movable fiber 12 12E is a predetermined line from the end face of the fixed fiber F1 or F2 (either one) in the groove. It comes to a position where the short distance H34 (Fig. 1E) is placed.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 12F of each movable fiber 12 is In either switching position, the end face 12E of the fiber 12 is connected to the block surface 18F. It has an axial length that fits in the groove between and 18R. the first of fibers 12 The axial length of the block 12F is approximately 1.5 mm. If so, it will generally be about 0.25 mm to 0.40 mm. gap 3 4 is approximately 65 μm.

However, the axial length of the first portion 12F of the fiber 12 is The end face 12E i3 of the fiber 12 and the first part 1 in any switching position A part of the 2F protrudes from the groove where the fiber is located and comes out from the surface 18F of the block 18. It is understood that the length may be as long as Fibers that protrude like this The end face 12E of 12 is.

with other fibers or with either active or passive optoelectronic devices. The connection may be made optically.

Virtual fibers and virtual optoelectronic devices are created by any suitable means. Please provide appropriate support. Support devices for such fibers and devices are provided on the substrate 14. Attached or integrally formed with the substrate. As yet another example, the fiber 12 The axial length of the first portion 12F is A length such that the end face 12E of the fiber and the face 18F of the block 18 are on the same plane. In such a device, a virtual optical fiber and a virtual optical fiber may be used. Either direct or suitable mounting of the Lectronics device can be done using a blocking device. It is also possible to fix it to the surface 18F of the block 18.

The support stand 38 is fixed to the substrate 14 at a predetermined distance 36 from the block 18. Ru. The support stand 38 may be mounted and fixed on the board 14, or it may be mounted on the board as shown in the figure. May form on the body. The support stand 38 has a somewhat inclined slope surface 40S and a front surface 40F. have. As will be described later, the slope surface 40S has a piascus on the fiber 12. It is for generating. This function was measured under the conditions shown in Figure 10. The maximum effect is achieved when the slope surface 40S is inclined at a predetermined angle 42.

In practice, angle 42 is within the range of 5° to 15°.

The predetermined second portion 12R of the movable fiber 12 extends outward from the ramp surface 40S. ing. The slope surface 40S has a groove 44 in which the second portion 12R of the fiber 12 is arranged. may be formed. In either case, the fiber 12 and the front surface 40F of the stand 38 are A contact point that will be contacted later is indicated by reference numeral 46. passing through contact point 46 of fiber 12 The portion extending to the end face 12E is defined as the "free length" of the fiber.

At least near the contact point 46, the fiber 12 is connected to the groove 44 (or the ramp surface 40S of the platform) ). Any suitable means may also be used, such as the adhesives mentioned above. It is Noh. The adhesive is designated by the reference numeral 48 (FIGS. 1A and 1B).

As best shown in FIG. 1D, contact point 46 is at the bottom of grooves 20 and 22. is located a predetermined offset distance 50 above. Portion 12 of fiber 12 The axis 12A of F is connected to the axes 20A and 22 of grooves 20 and 22 (if necessary). and form a predetermined angle 52 (FIG. 1E). Angle 52 is positive (i.e. substrate 1 Parallel to the surface of 4 and above the reference plane P that includes the axis of the groove), and the following: The clearance distance is 36 and the offset distance is 50 using the small angle approximation formula (radians) such as and a value related to the inclination angle 42 of the table.

A=B-1,5(B-H/L) Here, A indicates the angle 52, B indicates angle 42; H indicates an offset distance of 50, L indicates the clearance distance 36.

In practice, angle 52 is approximately 1°.

As is clear from Figure 1D, the axes of fixed fibers F and F2 are It is arranged parallel to the axis of the groove to be attached. However, movable The axes of fixed fibers F1 and F2 are aligned in the groove so that fiber 12 is tilted. It is also possible to tilt it relative to the axis. This state is shown in FIG. 1E. in this case Bend the fiber by tilting block 3° (Fig. 1D) slightly and bend the fiber as described below. If it is possible to obtain a piascus similar to the piascus 56 added to the dynamic fiber, preferable. In addition, it is possible to fix the fixed fiber in the groove of the block 18 without using adhesive. It is also possible to set the

The first portion 12F is placed in the grooves 20 and 22, and the second portion is placed on the slope surface 40S. 12R (including placement in the groove 44), the fiber 12 is self-contained. The entire length is curved, and the curvature increases as it approaches the platform 38. bend fiber 12 By increasing the distance, a pie spacing can be added to the first portion 12F. Paiasuka acts in the direction indicated by 56 to direct the fiber toward the bottom of the groove in which the fiber 12 is placed. Press the first portion 12F of. In this way, Paiska is the top surface of block 18. It acts in the direction 56, which is approximately perpendicular to 18T.

A switching member, shown schematically at 62, is operatively connected to an actuator 64 ( (Fig. 1B) and reciprocates in the 66A direction and the opposite 66B direction with respect to the substrate 14. do. The reciprocating movement of switching member 62 in directions 68A and 66B is as follows.

The direction is transverse to the direction 56 of the piascus and to the axis of the groove 20.22. Cut The replacement member 62 is located within the clearance space 36 between the block 18 and the stand 38. Preferably, it is provided at a position as close to the rear surface 18R of the block 18 as possible.

Detailed configurations of the switching member 62 and the actuator 64 will be described later.

Generally, the switching member 62 connects the crosspiece 70 and the first and second arms 72A and 72. It takes the form of a yoke with B. The arms 72A, 72B are connected to the fiber 12 The intermediate portion 12■, that is, the fiber region between the stand 38 and the block 18 is It is separated by a sufficient distance 74 to accommodate and act on this part. The interval 74 is Fiber and arms 72A and 72B except when switching force is applied to the fiber. The length is such that they do not come in contact with each other. The spacing 74 between arms 72A and 72B Detailed dimensions and moving distance of the switching yoke 62 will be described later.

The switching operation is carried out using a suitable abutment member, which will be described later and is indicated by reference numeral 76 in FIG. 1B. The movement of the arc 62 is restricted. As will be described later, the mortar member 76 supports the optical fiber. Since it has nothing to do with accurate positioning, it is not necessary to position it very precisely. mentioned above As mentioned above, in order to accurately position the fiber, it is only necessary to provide a groove. .

Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1F, a switch 10 according to the present invention The switching operation will be explained in detail. The first portion 12F of the fiber 12 is 1 1li20, and the switching member 62 is switched to the initial direction by the actuator 64. 66A, arm 72A is positioned close to block 18. 12 intermediate regions 12I. Therefore, the switching force is A to the fiber 12.

As is clear from FIG. 1F, the side wall 20W1 of the groove 20 and the first portion of the fiber 12 The camming action between the first and second grooves 12F causes the fiber to pop out of the first groove 20.

The upward movement is indicated by reference numeral 78, and this movement is initiated against the Pyasuka 56. live. If the switching member 62 continues to be moved in the direction 66A, the fiber 12 will move to the central portion 1. 8M, the first portion 12F of the fiber 12 is connected to the entrance of the other; Ru. The 12F portion of fiber 12 is is pressed toward the bottom of the other groove 22.

This movement is indicated by reference numeral 80.

As is clear from the above description, the end 12E of the fiber 12 is connected to the first groove 20 (first groove 20). 1A) to the second groove 22 (FIG. 1B) in a substantially semicircular manner. block In moving the fiber 12 across the groove 18, the energized fiber is The movement caused by repositioning on the bottom is a ratchet movement, and this movement causes There is a detent action that precisely positions the fiber in the next groove. first and second (and further) locations, as described above. It is possible to accurately position the fiber 12 by side walls that affect the fiber 12. can. Of course, if the switching member 62 is moved in the opposite direction 66B, the same The bar 12 can be switched from the groove 22 to the groove 20.

As is clear from the above description, according to the invention, the switching force is applied to the switching member 6 2 directly to fiber 12. This condition may occur if the member to which the fiber is attached This is different from conventional mechanical switching devices, which apply switching forces to the same level. a Since only a large portion of the actuator and a relatively small number of fibers are moved, the present invention The switching operation can be performed at a relatively fast switching speed of about 2 milliseconds. Ru.

The free length of the fiber is such that the movement described using FIG. The angle 42 of the slope surface 40S and the offset distance 50 each correspond to the optical fiber due to bending stress. quartz glass optical fiber and block 18 without causing fiber damage or cracks. The size should be such that it can withstand the friction generated between the material and the material. In a preferred embodiment, the free length should be approximately 1.4 cm. In this case, if the inclination angle 42 is about 10°, the offset distance is about 0.066 cm above the V groove. become.

Three or more grooves are provided in the block 18, and the grooves are selected according to the amount of displacement of the switching member 62. It is easy to understand from the above explanation that the fiber 12 may be switched by I can do it. Furthermore, the principles of the present invention apply to switch devices having two or more movable fibers. It will be understood that it can also be applied to Therefore, in such a switch device This will be explained using FIGS. 2 and 3.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the block 18 has three V-grooves 20. ．． It has 22.24. The axes of the grooves 20, 22, 24 connect the movable fibers 12 and 24 to each other. and 12' at a distance 32 approximately equal to the diameter. two stillness The optical fibers F and F2 are again left in place within the two V-grooves 2o and 22. Fix it so that it stays in place. Ramp surface 40 of support platform 38 (not shown in FIG. 2B) Two movable optical fibers 12, 12' are placed in the grooves 44, 44' formed in S.

Each of the fibers 12 and 12' are bent and packaged as described above in FIG. Iasuka 56.56' is generated and the fiber 12.12' (7) First part 12 F and 12F' are pressed into the first (7) V grooves 20.22, respectively. fiber 1242 ’ end faces 12E, 12E’ are arranged in line with each other and are fixed It faces the cut ends of the fibers F1 and F2.

Operate actuator 64 to switch fibers 12 and 12' Then, the arm 72A of the switching member 62 engages with the fiber 12. Each groove is substantially Since the movable fibers 12 and 12 are arranged at intervals equal to the diameter of the 12' , the fiber 12 moves in a semicircle as in the case described above (Figs. 1F and 4). Initially, the first portion 12F of the first fiber 12 corresponds to the second fiber 12'. (Fig. 4A, Fig. 4B). Due to this contact action, the switching force is to the second fiber 12', which starts a semicircular motion. this , each of the fibers 12 and 12' moves into an adjacent groove. Cut The amount of displacement of the replacement member 62 is again limited by the memorial support member 76 (FIG. 2B).

As in the above case, the provision of grooves makes it possible to accurately position the fiber. Therefore, it is not necessary to arrange the memorial stand member 76 so strictly.

Figures 3A and 3B are further modifications of the embodiment of Figures 1A and 1B. An example is shown. In the apparatus shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, in block 18 Four grooves 20, 22, 24, and 26 are formed. Here, we will further explore the It has a fiber 90 and is in the form of a cross-type switch. The cross type switch form is , can be effectively used when bypassing non-operating nodes in a network.

One end 90E1 of the fiber 90 is connected to the cut end surface 90E1 of this fiber and another static It is mounted on the block 30 so that the end faces of the stop fibers F, F, are arranged in a line. and is fixed in the groove 26. Even if the cut end surface 90E1 is provided with an antireflection coating, good.

By making the fiber 90 into a loop inclined on the slope surface 40S, this fiber A pie scar can be added to the end 90E2 by bending the bar. Groove on slope surface 40S 44'' to receive the fiber 90. The portion of the fiber 90 near the end 90E2, the fiber 12 and the fiber 12' As in the multiple movable fiber embodiment described above in Figure 2, one group move from groove to groove as a loop. Figure 3B shows the arrangement when switching the fiber details. Shown below.

With reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C, between the arms 72A and 72B of the yoke 62, The distance 74 and the moving distance of the yoke 62 will be explained. Two movable pieces, each with a diameter Fiber 12.12' in two fiber switching positions (Figure 2A and Figure 2B) Think about the case where it is placed. The distance 32 between the axes of adjacent grooves (Fig. 1C) is the distance D +d, where d indicates the short offset distance between fibers 12 and 12'.

In reality, the fiber slides down against the frictional force on the sloped part of the sidewall of the adjacent groove. In order to Must be. Adding all the length segments gives the practical The minimum spacing 74 is as follows.

Interval 74 = 2.5D + d/2-E + 2e After the switching operation is completed, it is turned off. Preferably, the fibers and arms 72A and 72B do not contact each other, and are designated by the symbol reJ. indicates an additional increase. However, it is difficult to precisely control the movement of the yoke. If possible, the absolute minimum spacing of the gap 74 is as follows.

Absolute minimum spacing 74 = 2D + d + 2e As described above regarding the minimum spacing distance 74 It is easy to see that the content can be similarly applied when using three or more fibers. I can understand.

Figure 4 shows the distance traveled by the yoke. Select and trust your departure and arrival points in York to obtain the best possible switching operation.

In the above explanation, FIG. 1 shows the switch 10 in the 0N10FF configuration, that is, It can be seen that this shows a method for creating a device with two configurations. Similarly, the switch according to the invention The apparatus having a 2×2 arrangement of switches can be understood from FIG. As mentioned above FIG. 3 shows a cross-type bypass switch configuration. For other switch configurations It will be easily understood by those skilled in the art that it can be applied in the same manner.

Referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, a switch according to the present invention is applied. A perspective view, a top view, and a cross-sectional view are shown showing the configuration of a practical device.

The components of the switch 10 described above are manufactured by E.I. Denis Bon de Nemours. (ε, 1.Du Pant deNemours) from the trade name Rynite (Ryn polyester engineering, such as those manufactured and sold as A housing, indicated schematically by reference numeral 110, made of thermoplastic resin material. It is integrally molded inside the ring. Housing 110 is an upright structure surrounding substrate 14. It has a side wall 112. A groove 114 is formed at the top of the side wall 112, and this groove engages a bead provided on the underside of the cover (not shown). Cover 16 (not shown) 5A) completely closes the open area of switch housing 110 shown in FIG. 5A. It has a similar shape and protects the inside of the switch. Loctite (Loc) It is sold as product number 404 by Tite Corporation. Adhere the cover as appropriate using a suitable adhesive, such as a suitable adhesive. Block 18 and 30, pedestal 38, and other components described above are integrally formed with substrate 14.

The side wall 112 has first and second fiber support shelves 11 provided at opposite ends thereof. It is interrupted in the middle by 6 and 11g. 116G and 118G in each column grooves are formed, each defining a support platform. Movable fiber 12.1 2' and the fixed fibers F, , F, are connected to the switch housing 1 from this support part. It's in the top 10. These fibers (e.g. using the glue mentioned just above) to shelf 116,118 and the strain relief heat shrink tubing used above it. Glue.

The movable fiber 12.12' is inserted into position within the housing 110 with the jacket. The transition table 120 is located next to the table 38 so that the transition table 120 can be inserted. to transition table 120 A groove 122G is formed, and this groove is located in the entrance direction of 144 on the slope surface 40S. bent to Transition table 120 includes an elongated fiber 12 within the body of switch 10. ．． 12' onto the ramp surface 40S, please allow enough time for the fiber arrangement. It is provided for the purpose of holding. Fixed fibers F,, F2 are also included with jackets. The transition platform 122 adjacent to the support plate 1.18 is inserted into position within the housing. also performs a similar function for these fibers.

Gap 124 is between block 30 and block 18. This gap 12 4, the epoxy adhesive will flow into the grooved surface of block 18. is prevented.

A pocket 130 is formed inside the housing 110. actuator 64 (FIGS. 5B and 5C) is accommodated in the pocket 130. Actue Data 64 includes New Providence, New Chassis. Aromat Corp., New Jersey) Although it is manufactured by the manufacturer and sold as model TN2E-5V It is preferable to use a solenoid actuator such as Substrate 14 (Figure 5C) The actuator 6 is connected to the actuator 6 via a conductive wire 64 [4] extending through an opening formed in the actuator 6. Apply power to 4. 5B and 5C, the actuator The rod 64 includes a bar 132 supported on a rod 134. actuator carp By energizing the bar 132, the bar 132 moves in the direction 134B opposite to the direction 134A. Move.

An abbreviated bracket 136 is attached to the bar 132. Bracket 1 The longer end 136L of 36 is attached to bar 132 by suitable attachment means. . The shorter leg 136b of the bracket 136 is connected to the yaw shown in other views of the drawings. It has a notch that defines the square-shaped switching member 62.

The reciprocating movement of the bar 132 in opposite directions 134A and 134B causes the bracket 13 to 6, the switching member 62 switches between generally lateral directions 66A and 668.

In a preferred embodiment, the mortuary member 76 limiting the movement of the switching member 62 is , formed by a pair of positioning screws 140A and 140B. screw 1 40A and 140B penetrate the side wall 112 of the housing 110 and are screwed together. , acts on the surface of the longer arm 136L of the bracket 136. Adjustable like this The provision of capable screws 140A and 140B is due to public safety that occurs during the manufacturing stage of the switch. It is understandable that this is to adapt to differences. This allows for detailed control during manufacturing. If so, it is also possible to provide a fixed surface inside the housing and use this as a memorial surface. It is.

Various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art who would benefit from the invention described above. However, such modifications are not included within the intended scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. It is something that can be done.

FTGURE2A 2.轡 FIGURE2B FIGURE3B international search report

Claims (20)

[Claims] 1. a block having first and second grooves each having a bottom therein; a ramp surface disposed at a predetermined distance from the block; an end face of the fiber located in the vicinity of the end face and located within the groove of the block; and a second portion of fiber disposed on the ramp surface; Bias stress is applied by bending the area between the road surface and the road surface. The bias force connects the first portion of the fiber to the fiber in which the first portion is disposed. an optical fiber acting in a suppressing direction at the bottom of the groove; a switching member; By moving the switching member in a direction crossing the bias filter, moving the first portion of fiber from the groove in which the fiber was placed to the other groove; pressing the bias force against the first portion of the fiber onto the bottom of the other groove; an optical fiber switch comprising a switching member moving means for acting on the optical fiber in a direction; Tch. 2. The slope surface is arranged at a predetermined distance L from the member forming the groove. , The road surface is inclined by a predetermined angle B, The last point of contact between the fiber and the ramp surface is a predetermined point from the bottom of the groove. located a distance H above, the first portion of the fiber relative to the bottom of the groove. The optical fiber switch according to claim 1, wherein the optical fiber switch forms a predetermined positive angle A. 3. The relationship between the size of the angle A, the angle B, the distance H, and the distance L is A=B-1.5. The optical fiber switch according to claim 2, in which the following relationship (B-H/L) holds true. 4. Each of the grooves has an axis along its length; Optical fibers according to claim 1, which are laterally arranged in a qualitatively parallel manner. bus switch. 5. The fiber has a predetermined diameter, and the axis of the groove is at least The optical fiber according to claim 4 is arranged at a distance equal to the diameter of the optical fiber. fiber switch. 6. The fiber has a predetermined diameter, and the depth dimension of the groove is at least as large as the fiber. 2. The optical fiber switch of claim 1, wherein the fiber optic switch is equal to half the diameter of the fiber. 7. Claim 1 further comprising a fixed optical fiber disposed in one of the grooves. Optical fiber switch described in . 8. Claim further comprising a second fixed optical fiber disposed on the other side of the groove. The optical fiber switch according to item 1. 9. a block having first, second and third grooves each having a bottom therein; first and second surfaces having a surface and an axis and respectively disposed in one of said grooves; an output optical fiber; a ramp surface located at a predetermined distance from the block; and; an end face, a first portion disposed in the groove of the block near the end face; and a second portion disposed on the inclined road surface, between the block and the road surface; The bias force is applied by being bent at the part where the bias force is applied. acting in a direction to press the first part to the bottom of the groove in which the first part is disposed; first and second input optical fibers; a switching member; By moving the switching member in a direction crossing the bias filter, The first portion of the first input optical fiber is removed from the groove in which the fiber is placed and forwarded. said second input optical fiber, thereby causing a front end of said second input optical fiber. The first portion is removed from the groove in which the fiber is placed, and the bias force is removed from the input beam. the input optical fiber in a direction that presses the first portion of each fiber to the bottom of the groove; 1. An optical fiber switch comprising switching member moving means for acting on each fiber. 10. The slope surface is arranged at a predetermined distance L from the member forming the groove. Re, The road surface is inclined by a predetermined angle B, The last point of contact between each of the fibers and the ramp surface is from the bottom of the groove. located a predetermined distance H above, The first portion of each of the fibers is at a predetermined positive angle with respect to the bottom of the groove. The optical fiber switch according to claim 9, which comprises A. 11. The relationship between the magnitude of the angle A, the angle B, the distance H, and the distance L is A=B-1. The optical fiber switch according to claim 10, in which the relationship: 5(B-H/L) holds true. blood. 12. Each of the grooves has an axis along its length, and the axes of the grooves are aligned with each other. 9. Optical fibers according to claim 9 arranged laterally in a substantially parallel manner. Iba switch. 13. The fiber has a predetermined diameter, and the axis of the groove is at least Claim 12, wherein the diameter of the bar is spaced apart from the diameter of the bar. fiber optic switch. 14. The fiber has a predetermined diameter, and the groove has a depth dimension that is at least as large as the fiber. 10. The optical fiber switch of claim 9, wherein the diameter of the fiber is equal to half the diameter of the fiber. 15. a block having first, second, third, and fourth grooves each having a bottom therein; a ramp surface disposed at a predetermined distance from the block; a crossed fiber having a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the groove; and the second end connects the first end of the crossed fiber. The cross-type fiber is placed in a groove different from the placed groove, and a part of the crossed fiber is connected to the block. on the ramp surface so as to bend each of the fibers at a portion between it and the ramp surface. The fiber is placed in a position where bias stress is added to the fiber by bending the fiber. and the bias force extends the first portion into the groove in which the first portion is disposed. cross-shaped fibers acting in the direction of pressing against the bottom of; first and second surfaces having a surface and an axis and respectively disposed in one of said grooves; an output optical fiber; an end face, located in the vicinity of the end face and within the groove of the block; a first portion disposed on the ramp surface and a second portion disposed on the ramp surface; A bias force is applied by bending the part between the road surface and the road surface, The bias force places the first portion on the bottom of the groove in which the first portion is placed. first and second input optical fibers acting in a pressing direction; a switching member; By moving the switching member in a direction crossing the bias direction, The second end of the crossed fiber is removed from the groove in which the fiber is placed and the second end is removed from the first end. the first portion of the first input optical fiber is pressed into contact with the input optical fiber; The fiber is removed from the groove in which it is placed and pressed against the second input optical fiber. removing the first portion of the second input optical fiber from the groove in which the fiber was placed; The bias force is connected to the first portion of each of the input optical fibers and the crossed fiber. the second end of the cross-shaped fiber in a direction that presses the second end of the fiber against the bottom of the groove; switching member moving means for acting on the second end and each of the input optical fibers; fiber optic switch. 16. The slope surface is arranged at a predetermined distance L from the member forming the groove. Re, The road surface is inclined by a predetermined angle B, The last point of contact between each of the fibers and the ramp surface is from the bottom of the groove. located a predetermined distance H above, The first portion of each of the fibers is at a predetermined positive angle with respect to the bottom of the groove. The optical fiber switch according to claim 15, which comprises A. 17. The relationship between the magnitude of the angle A, the angle B, the distance H, and the distance L is A=B-1. The optical fiber switch according to claim 16, in which the relationship: blood. 18. Each of the grooves has an axis along its length, and the axes of the grooves are aligned with each other. 16. Optical beams according to claim 15 arranged laterally in a substantially parallel manner. fiber switch. 19. The fiber has a predetermined diameter, and the axis of the groove is at least as claimed in claim 18, wherein the diameter of the bar is equal to the diameter of the bar. fiber optic switch. 20. The fiber has a predetermined diameter, and the groove has a depth dimension that is at least as large as the fiber. 16. The optical fiber switch according to claim 15, which is equal to half the diameter of the fiber. .