Multichannel microoptical rotary joint

Optical interconnections are usually realized under static conditions, i.e., where the surrounding environment is fixed. Here, we consider the case of optical communication between movable parts. For this purpose, it is still common to use electrical solutions like grinding connections or flexible wires. However, these are easily susceptible to failure due to abrasion and mechanical stress. Furthermore, the bandwidth of electrical wires is limited and in some cases, electromagnetic interference becomes a problem. In order to meet the increasing demand for higher data rates, e.g., for mobile applications and robotics, and to reduce mechanical problems, it is interesting to consider optical interconnections. Special optical and packaging solutions are required to achieve invariance of the optical performance under certain movements (flip, slide or rotate). Here, we present a new approach to a multichannel microoptical rotary joint. It is based on a special optical design with a variable lens. We analyze the design by ray tracing simulations and discuss microoptical possibilities for its implementation.