An optical port assembly and its assembly method

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of optical communication technology, and in particular to an optical port assembly and its assembly method. The invention uses a first optical mask and a second optical mask to fix the MT connector to an optical port adapter. A symmetrical elastic force is applied to the MT connector through an elastic structure surrounding it. In the initial state, the MT connector is in a central position within the optical port adapter. If the optical cable swings, due to the adaptive elastic force of the elastic structure, the MT connector can cause the fiber optic connector and the MT connector to swing together within a small range. No gap is generated at the mating point of the fiber optic connector and the MT connector, ensuring stable transmission of the optical signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of optical communication technology, and in particular to an optical port assembly and its assembly method. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of communication technology, the integration of devices carrying optical modules is constantly increasing, leading to a continuous increase in the density of optical cables connecting these devices and a more complex electromagnetic environment. Ensuring stable signal transmission while minimizing electromagnetic interference under these complex operating conditions is a key aspect of optical module structural design. The optical ports in an optical module are exposed outside the system equipment and connected to the optical cable; they are crucial ports for connecting optical signals. Among them, the MPO (Multi-fiber Push-On) type optical port can connect multiple optical fibers and is widely used in high-speed optical modules.

[0003] In existing technologies for MPO type optical ports, some solutions completely fix the MT connector. When the optical cable is swung, the MT connector in the optical port cannot swing with the optical fiber connector on the optical cable, resulting in a gap at the mating point of the optical fiber connector and the MT connector, which affects the transmission of optical signals.

[0004] Therefore, overcoming the shortcomings of the existing technology is an urgent problem to be solved in this technical field. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an optical port component that can prevent the swaying of optical cables from affecting the transmission of optical signals.

[0006] The present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] In a first aspect, an optical port assembly is provided, comprising: an optical port adapter 1, a first optical mask 2, a second optical mask 3, and an MT connector 4; the MT connector 4 is inserted into the optical port adapter 1, and the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 are snapped and fixed to the optical port adapter 1 to fix the MT connector 4.

[0008] One end of the optical port adapter 1 is provided with a first positioning protrusion 10 and a second positioning protrusion 11. A guide opening 12 is formed between the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11. The MT connector 4 is inserted into the guide opening 12. The first optical mask 2 covers and wraps the first positioning protrusion 10, and the second optical mask 3 covers and wraps the second positioning protrusion 11. An elastic structure is provided on the periphery of the MT connector 4.

[0009] Preferably, the rear end of the first light mask 2 is folded inward and extended, and the extended portion is processed into a first elastic claw 20. The first elastic claw 20 extends into the guide opening 12 and abuts against the inner side of the first positioning protrusion 10. The rear end of the second light mask 3 is folded inward and extended, and the extended portion is processed into a second elastic claw 30. The second elastic claw 30 extends into the guide opening 12 and abuts against the inner side of the second positioning protrusion 11. The periphery of the MT connector 4 is surrounded by the elastic structure formed by the first elastic claw 20 and the second elastic claw 30.

[0010] Preferably, the first elastic claw 20 includes at least two first elastic pieces 200, with a gap between adjacent first elastic pieces 200; the second elastic claw 30 includes at least two second elastic pieces 300, with a gap between adjacent second elastic pieces 300.

[0011] Preferably, the optical port adapter 1 is provided with a fixed boss 13, the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 are provided on one end face of the fixed boss 13, and the upper and lower surfaces of the fixed boss 13 are respectively provided with a first lock head 14 and a second lock head 15.

[0012] The first bending surface 21 of the first light mask 2 is provided with a first locking opening 22, which is locked and fixed with the first locking head 14. The second bending surface 31 of the second light mask 3 is provided with a second locking opening 32, which is locked and fixed with the second locking head 15.

[0013] Preferably, the first light mask 2 covers the shell of the first positioning protrusion 10 and extends to both sides to form a third bending surface 23, the third bending surface 23 wrapping around the sides of the two positioning protrusions; the second light mask 3 covers the shell of the second positioning protrusion 11 and extends to both sides to form a fourth bending surface 33, the fourth bending surface 33 covering the outside of the third bending surface 23.

[0014] Preferably, the first light mask 2 further includes a fifth bending surface 24 connected to the first elastic claw 20, and the second light mask 3 further includes a sixth bending surface 34 connected to the second elastic claw 30; the fifth bending surface 24 is used to fit against the end face of the first positioning protrusion 10 after the first elastic claw 20 extends into the guide opening 12, and the sixth bending surface 34 is used to fit against the end face of the second positioning protrusion 11 after the second elastic claw 30 extends into the guide opening 12.

[0015] Preferably, the elastic structure is an elastic shielding sleeve 4a, which is sleeved on the MT connector 4.

[0016] Preferably, both the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 are provided with sliding grooves 7, and both the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 are provided with first buckles 10a that match the sliding grooves 7;

[0017] The first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 are pushed toward the light port adapter 1 from both sides until the first buckle 10a on the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 are placed in the sliding groove 7.

[0018] Preferably, both the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 are provided with a recess 11a, and both the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 are provided with a second buckle 14a that matches the recess 11a;

[0019] The entire assembly formed by the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 is pushed from the tail of the MT connector 4 toward the light port adapter 1 until the second buckle 14a on the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 is placed in the recess 11a.

[0020] Secondly, a method for assembling an optical port assembly is provided, the method being used to assemble the optical port assembly as described in the first aspect, comprising:

[0021] Push the first light mask 2 toward the first positioning protrusion 10 so that the first light mask 2 is engaged with the first positioning protrusion 10.

[0022] Push the second light mask 3 toward the second positioning protrusion 11 so that the second light mask 3 is engaged with the second positioning protrusion 11.

[0023] The MT connector 4 is inserted into the guide port 12, wherein the periphery of the MT connector 4 is surrounded by an elastic structure.

[0024] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows:

[0025] The present invention fixes the MT connector 4 to the optical port adapter 1 through the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3. The elastic structure around the MT connector 4 applies a symmetrical elastic force to the MT connector 4. In the initial state, the MT connector 4 is in a central position in the optical port adapter 1. If the optical cable swings, the MT connector 4 can be driven to swing together with the optical fiber connector and the MT connector 4 within a small range due to the adaptive elastic force of the elastic structure. No gap will be generated at the mating point of the optical fiber connector and the MT connector 4, thus ensuring stable transmission of optical signals. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of the present invention will be briefly described below. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship of optical communication terminals, using a hybrid mode optical modem as an example.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of another optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first optical mask with an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second optical mask with an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an optical port adapter of an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 9 This is another structural schematic diagram of an optical port adapter for an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an MT connector for an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 10a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a connector for an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 10b This is another structural schematic diagram of a connector for an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 10c This is a schematic diagram of an optoelectronic multiplexing structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the coupling structure of the MT connector of an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an optical module provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 13 This is another structural schematic diagram of an optical module provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of a first and second optical mask of an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another internal structure of an optical port assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating an assembly method for an optical port component provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0047] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention.

[0048] Unless the context otherwise requires, throughout the specification and claims, the term "comprising" is interpreted as open-ended, meaning "including, but not limited to." In the description, terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "exemplary embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples" are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic associated with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. The illustrative representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics mentioned may be included in any suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples; that is, although they may be incorporated in embodiments or examples using the above terms due to reasons such as order and position, it does not limit them to be incorporated in combination by a single embodiment or example.

[0049] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0050] In the description of this invention, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of embodiments of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more. Furthermore, for example, the description may use the prefix "A" or "B" to describe the same type of nouns as two independent entities. In this case, the features defined with "A" and "B" are used only to distinguish between similar entities and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features.

[0051] In describing some embodiments, the terms "coupled," "coupled," and "connected," and their derivative expressions, may be used. For example, the term "connected" may be used in describing some embodiments to indicate that two or more components have direct physical or electrical contact with each other. Similarly, the term "coupled" may be used in describing some embodiments to indicate that two or more components have direct physical or electrical contact. However, the terms "connected" or "coupled" may also refer to two or more components that do not have direct contact with each other but still cooperate or interact with each other, such as "optical coupling," "wireless connection," etc. The embodiments disclosed herein are not necessarily limited to the scope of this invention.

[0052] In the description of this invention, the expression “A and / or B” (where A and B are used to formally represent specific features) will be used. The corresponding expression includes the following three combinations: only A, only B, and a combination of A and B.

[0053] As used in this invention, “about,” “approximately,” or “approximately” includes the stated value and the average value within an acceptable range of deviation from a particular value, wherein the acceptable range of deviation is determined by a person skilled in the art taking into account the measurement under discussion and the error associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system).

[0054] Furthermore, the technical features involved in the various embodiments of the present invention described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0055] To facilitate understanding of the application scenarios of the embodiments of the present invention, the principles and architecture of optical fiber communication will be explained first.

[0056] One of the core aspects of fiber optic communication is the conversion between photoelectric and optical signals. Fiber optic communication uses optical signals carrying information to transmit in optical fibers / waveguides, leveraging the passive transmission characteristics of light in optical fibers to achieve low-cost, low-loss information transmission. In contrast, information processing devices such as computers use electrical signals, necessitating the conversion between electrical and optical signals during signal transmission.

[0057] In the field of fiber optic communication technology, optical modules realize the aforementioned photoelectric conversion function, and the mutual conversion between optical signals and electrical signals is the core function of optical modules. Optical modules achieve electrical connection with external host computers through gold fingers on the circuit board. The main electrical connections include power supply, I2C signals, data transmission signals, and grounding. The gold finger-based electrical connection method has become the standard method in the optical module industry. Based on this, the circuit board is an essential technical feature in most optical modules.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, the connection of the optical communication terminal mainly includes an optical network unit 100, an optical module 200, an optical cable 101, and a network cable 103. One end of the optical cable 101 is connected to a remote server (not shown in the figure), and one end of the network cable 103 is connected to a local information processing device (not shown in the figure). The connection between the local information processing device and the remote server is completed by the connection between the optical cable 101 and the network cable 103; while the connection between the optical cable 101 and the network cable 103 is completed by the optical network unit 100 with the optical module 200.

[0059] The optical port of the optical module 200 is connected to the optical cable 101, establishing a bidirectional optical signal connection with the optical cable 101; the electrical port of the optical module 200 is connected to the optical network unit 100, establishing a bidirectional electrical signal connection with the optical network unit 100; the optical module 200 realizes the mutual conversion between optical signals and electrical signals, thereby realizing the establishment of a connection between the optical cable 101 and the optical network unit 100; in one embodiment, the optical signal from the optical cable 101 is converted into an electrical signal by the optical module 200 and then input into the optical network unit 100, and the electrical signal from the optical network unit 100 is converted into an optical signal by the optical module 200 and then input into the optical cable 101.

[0060] The optical network unit 100 has an optical module interface 102 for connecting to the optical module 200 and establishing a bidirectional electrical signal connection with the optical module 200; the optical network unit 100 also has a network cable interface 104 for connecting to a network cable 103 and establishing a bidirectional electrical signal connection with the network cable 103; the optical module 200 and the network cable 103 are connected through the optical network unit 100. In one embodiment, the optical network unit 100 transmits signals from the optical module 200 to the network cable 103 and transmits signals from the network cable 103 to the optical module 200. The optical network unit 100 acts as a host computer for the optical module 200 to monitor its operation.

[0061] At this point, the remote server establishes a two-way signal transmission channel with the local information processing equipment through optical cable 101, optical module 200, optical network unit 100 and network cable 103.

[0062] Common information processing devices include routers, switches, and computers; the optical network unit 100 is the host computer of the optical module 200, which provides data signals to the optical module 200 and receives data signals from the optical module 200. Other common host computers for the optical module 200 include optical line terminals.

[0063] The optical module 200 includes a base and a top cover. A circuit board and optical components are housed within the cavity formed by the base and top cover. The optical components include a light emitting component and / or a light receiving component to realize the transmission and / or reception of optical signals. The circuit board is equipped with circuit traces, electronic components (such as capacitors, resistors, and transistors), and chips (such as microprocessors, laser driver chips, limiting amplifiers, clock data recovery devices, power management chips, and data processing chips).

[0064] The circuit board connects the electrical components in the optical module 200 together according to the circuit design through circuit traces to realize electrical functions such as power supply, electrical signal transmission and grounding.

[0065] Circuit boards are generally rigid circuit boards. Due to their relatively rigid material, rigid circuit boards can also perform load-bearing functions, such as supporting chips stably. When optical components are located on the circuit board, rigid circuit boards can also provide stable support. Rigid circuit boards can also be inserted into the optical module interface 102 of the optical network unit 100. In one embodiment of the present invention, metal pins / gold fingers are formed on one end surface of the rigid circuit board for connection with electrical connectors. These are features that are not easily achieved by flexible circuit boards.

[0066] Flexible circuit boards are also used in some optical modules 200 as a supplement to rigid circuit boards. Flexible circuit boards are generally used in conjunction with rigid circuit boards, such as connecting rigid circuit boards and optical transceivers using flexible circuit boards.

[0067] The optical port of the optical module 200 can be an MPO type optical port. In the MPO type optical port, the MT connector is completely fixed. When the optical cable is swung, the MT connector in the optical port cannot swing with the optical fiber connector on the optical cable, resulting in a gap at the mating point of the optical fiber connector and the MT connector, which affects the transmission of optical signals.

[0068] The present invention improves the optical port of the optical module 200 so that the MT connector in the optical port can swing together with the optical fiber connector on the optical cable, thereby avoiding gaps at the mating point of the optical fiber connector and the MT connector.

[0069] Example 1:

[0070] To address the problem in existing technologies where optical cable swaying causes gaps at the connection point between the connector and MT connector 4, thus affecting the transmission quality of optical signals, Embodiment 1 of this invention provides an optical port assembly, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, it includes: an optical port adapter 1, a first optical mask 2, a second optical mask 3, and an MT connector 4; the MT connector 4 is inserted into the optical port adapter 1, and the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 are snapped and fixed to the optical port adapter 1 to fix the MT connector 4; one end of the optical port adapter 1 is provided with a first positioning protrusion 10 and a second positioning protrusion 11, and a guide opening 12 is formed between the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11, the MT connector 4 is inserted into the guide opening 12, the first optical mask 2 covers and wraps the first positioning protrusion 10, and the second optical mask 3 covers and wraps the second positioning protrusion 11; the MT connector 4 is provided with an elastic structure on its periphery.

[0071] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the rear end of the first light mask 2 is folded inward and extended, and the extended portion is processed into a first elastic claw 20. The first elastic claw 20 extends into the guide opening 12 and abuts against the inner side of the first positioning protrusion 10. The rear end of the second light mask 3 is folded inward and extended, and the extended portion is processed into a second elastic claw 30. The second elastic claw 30 extends into the guide opening 12 and abuts against the inner side of the second positioning protrusion 11. The periphery of the MT connector 4 is surrounded by an elastic structure formed by the first elastic claw 20 and the second elastic claw 30.

[0072] Reference Figure 5 The optical port adapter 1 is used to adapt to the optical fiber connector (i.e., Figure 5 As shown in M, it is equivalent to Figure 1The optical cable 101 and MT connector 4 are connected in a configuration where one end of the optical port adapter 1 is used to connect to the optical fiber connector, and the other end (i.e., the guide port 12) is used to connect to the MT connector 4. The MT connector 4 is connected to the optical fiber to achieve optical signal transmission. The first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 cooperate with the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 on the optical port adapter 1 to fix the MT connector 4. After the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 are fixed, the first elastic claw 20 and the second elastic claw 30 extend into the guide port 12 and abut against the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 to provide additional elasticity to the MT connector 4, enabling it to counteract interference caused by small-range swings. The specific swing range that can be withstood is related to the elasticity provided by the first elastic claw 20 and the second elastic claw 30, and also to the specific usage scenario of the optical port assembly (i.e., the swing amplitude of the optical cable in the usage scenario). More specific details are not explained in this embodiment. The above describes an elastic structure including a first elastic claw 20 and a second elastic claw 30. The elastic structure can also be other structures, as detailed in the following embodiments. Other structures of the optical port assembly will be described in detail below.

[0073] In one embodiment, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first elastic claw 20 includes at least two first elastic pieces 200, and there is a gap between adjacent first elastic pieces 200; the second elastic claw 30 includes at least two second elastic pieces 300, and there is a gap between adjacent second elastic pieces 300.

[0074] The first elastic sheet 200 and the second elastic sheet 300 can be wavy. The more elastic sheets there are, the more deformation of the elastic sheets will occur even with slight swaying of the fiber optic connector, thus providing better protection for the connection between the MT connector 4 and the fiber optic connector.

[0075] In one embodiment, in order to fix the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 to the light port adapter 1, such as... Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the optical port adapter 1 is provided with a fixed boss 13. The first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 are provided on one end face of the fixed boss 13. The upper and lower surfaces of the fixed boss 13 are respectively provided with a first locking head 14 and a second locking head 15. The first bending surface 21 of the first optical mask 2 is provided with a first locking mouth 22, which is locked and fixed with the first locking head 14. The second bending surface 31 of the second optical mask 3 is provided with a second locking mouth 32, which is locked and fixed with the second locking head 15.

[0076] The fixing boss 13 is rectangular, higher than the side of the optical port adapter 1, and adjacent to the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11. The number and arrangement of the first locking head 14 and the second locking head 15 are not described in detail in this embodiment.

[0077] In one embodiment, such as Figure 10 , Figure 10a , Figure 10b and 10c As shown, the MT connector 4 includes an elastic base 40, a stop seat 41, and a guide pin seat 42 arranged in sequence. The elastic base 40 is inserted into the guide port 12. The front end face of the stop seat 41 abuts against the end faces of the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11. At least two guide pins 43 are provided in the guide pin seat 42. A first connector 420 and a second connector 421 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the guide pin seat 42. One end of the first connector 420 and one end of the second connector 421 are respectively connected to the power supply pins on the circuit board 8. The other ends of the first connector 420 and the second connector 421 are respectively connected to the corresponding guide pins 43. Corresponding notches (not shown in the figure) are provided on both sides of the guide pin seat 42 to allow the first connector 420 and the second connector 421 to pass through the corresponding notches and connect to the corresponding guide pins 43. This is for transmitting electrical energy from the circuit board 8 to the conductive lines of the optical port adapter 1.

[0078] A photoelectric conversion device is connected to the optical fiber tail extending from the rear end of the guide pin seat 42. The photoelectric conversion device is disposed on the circuit board 8 to realize photoelectric conversion. One end of the circuit board 8 is provided with a gold finger connector, and the circuit board 8 is connected to the corresponding socket on the communication device through the gold finger connector. One end of the first connector 420 and one end of the second connector 421 are respectively connected to the other end of the circuit board 8. The circuit board 8 transmits electrical energy to the first connector 420 and the second connector 421 through internal wiring, and then transmits electrical energy to the guide pin 43 in the MT connector through the first connector 420 and the second connector 421 respectively. Finally, the electrical energy is transmitted to the conductive line connected in the optical port adapter 1 through the corresponding guide pin 43 to power the passive device at the other end of the optical fiber connected in the optical port adapter 1, thereby saving the cost of additional power supply to the passive device or additional cable laying. It is worth noting that, in order to achieve the above functions, the optical port adapter 1 side uses a photoelectric composite optical cable or other connecting line (including conductive line and optical fiber) that can transmit both optical and electrical signals at the same time. More specific details will not be described in this embodiment.

[0079] In one embodiment, such as Figure 11 As shown, an optical reference surface 400 is provided in front of the elastic base 40, which is used for coupling with the optical fiber connector. The elastic base 40 is used to insert into the guide port 12. After the elastic base 40 is inserted into the guide port 12, the stop seat 41 is used to abut against the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 respectively to limit the insertion length of the elastic base 40, ensuring that the optical reference surface 400 on the MT connector 4 and the optical fiber connector in the optical fiber adapter are always in the correct position during repeated insertion and removal.

[0080] To enhance the electromagnetic interference (EMI) immunity of the optical port assembly, in one embodiment, a thin metal film can be coated on all surfaces of the elastic base 40 except for the optical reference surface 400. The metal film forms a closed metal shielding wall to improve the EMI immunity of the optical port assembly. The first optical mask 2, the second optical mask 3, and the MT connector 4 together surround the rear of the optical port assembly, with no metal material obstructing the optical fiber exit at the tail of the guide pin seat 42. The opening size is small, and this technology does not apply any external force to the optical fiber at the tail of the guide pin seat 42. A comprehensive evaluation of electromagnetic shielding and structural reliability shows that the effect is significantly better than existing technologies.

[0081] In one embodiment, the optical port assembly is housed within the optical module. To protect the optical port adapter 1 and the MT connector 4 from damage by external factors, such as... Figure 12As shown, the optical module includes a base 5 and a cover plate 6. The optical port adapter 1, the first optical mask 2, the second optical mask 3, and the MT connector 4 are assembled and placed inside the base 5, and the cover plate 6 closes the base 5. The cavity formed by the base 5 and the cover plate 6 protects the overall structure of the optical port adapter 1, the first optical mask 2, the second optical mask 3, and the MT connector 4.

[0082] Continue to refer to Figure 12 The optical port adapter 1 further includes a connecting base 16, the connecting base 16 and the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 are respectively disposed on both sides of the fixing protrusion 13, the base 5 is provided with a first groove 50, the connecting base 16 and the fixing protrusion 13 are placed in the first groove 50, and the end face of the fixing protrusion 13 connected to the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 abuts against the first plane 500 of the first groove 50.

[0083] The base 16 has symmetrically arranged insertion guide heads 161 on both sides, which serve to provide fixed support when the optical port assembly is inserted into the corresponding device. In one embodiment, refer to... Figure 13 The connecting base 16 is provided with a connecting port 160, which is connected to the guide port 12. An optical fiber connector is inserted into the connecting port 160 and connected to the connecting base 16.

[0084] In one embodiment, to secure the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 on the fiber optic adapter, such as Figure 13 As shown, the base 5 is provided with a second groove 60. The first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11, which are wrapped by the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3, are located in the second groove 60. The tail end face of the guide pin seat 42 abuts against the second plane 600 of the second groove 60. According to the above structure, after the optical port adapter 1, the first optical mask 2, the second optical mask 3, and the MT connector 4 are placed in the corresponding positions on the base 5, the cover plate 6 is finally placed on the base 5 to complete the encapsulation of the optical port assembly.

[0085] In one embodiment, such as Figure 6 and Figure 14 As shown, the first optical mask 2 covers the shell of the first positioning protrusion 10 and extends to both sides, bending to form a third bending surface 23. The third bending surface 23 wraps around the sides of the two positioning protrusions (i.e., the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11). For the sealing of the connection between the optical port adapter 1 and the MT connector 4, in one embodiment, as... Figure 7 and Figure 14 As shown, the second light mask 3 covers the shell of the second positioning protrusion 11 and extends to both sides to form a fourth bending surface 33, which covers the outside of the third bending surface 23.

[0086] In one embodiment, such as Figure 14 As shown, the first optical mask 2 further includes a fifth bending surface 24 connected to the first elastic claw 20, and the second optical mask 3 further includes a sixth bending surface 34 connected to the second elastic claw 30. The fifth bending surface 24 is used to fit against the end face of the first positioning protrusion 10 when the first elastic claw 20 extends into the guide opening 12, and the sixth bending surface 34 is used to fit against the end face of the second positioning protrusion 11 when the second elastic claw 30 extends into the guide opening 12. This better achieves the sealing performance of the overall optical port assembly, ensures the shielding effect, and improves the anti-electromagnetic interference capability.

[0087] In summary, this embodiment uses the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 to fix the MT connector 4 to the optical port adapter 1. The elastic structure around the MT connector 4 applies a symmetrical elastic force to the MT connector 4. In the initial state, the MT connector 4 is in a central position in the optical port adapter 1. If the optical cable is swung, due to the adaptive elastic force of the elastic structure, the MT connector 4 can be driven to swing together with the fiber optic connector within a small range. No gap will be generated at the mating point of the fiber optic connector and the MT connector 4, ensuring stable transmission of optical signals.

[0088] Example 2:

[0089] Unlike Embodiment 1, the elastic structure in this embodiment can be an elastic shielding sleeve, which provides elastic deformation space and shields against electromagnetic interference. Furthermore, this embodiment also improves the structure of the first optical mask 2, the second optical mask 3, the first positioning protrusion 10, and the second positioning protrusion 11, providing another optional assembly method.

[0090] To improve the stability of the mating point between MT connector 4 and the fiber optic connector, as well as the overall electromagnetic compatibility of the optical port assembly, such as Figure 15 As shown, the elastic structure can also be an elastic shielding sleeve 4a, which is sleeved on the MT connector 4.

[0091] After the elastic shielding sleeve 4a is placed on the MT connector 4, it is then inserted into the guide port 12 on the optical port adapter 1. Since the elastic shielding sleeve 4a is elastic, it can buffer the force generated by the swaying of the optical cable, and at the same time, it can effectively prevent electromagnetic interference.

[0092] Specifically, due to the addition of the elastic shielding sleeve 4a, the structure of the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 can be adjusted according to the above structure, and the first elastic claw 20 and the second elastic claw 30 are no longer needed.

[0093] Reference Figure 15 In one embodiment, both the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 are provided with sliding grooves 7, and both the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 are provided with first buckles 10a that match the sliding grooves 7; after the elastic shielding sleeve 4a cooperates with the MT connector 4, they are inserted together into the guide port 12, and the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 are pushed toward the optical port adapter 1 from both sides until the first buckles 10a on the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 are placed in the sliding grooves 7 to position the MT connector 4.

[0094] More specifically, the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 are each provided with two non-connected sliding grooves 7, which extend from the side of their respective positioning protrusions toward the center.

[0095] based on Figure 15 With the structure of the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3, after the first buckle 10a on the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 are placed in the sliding groove 7, the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 can be fixed in various ways. In one embodiment, the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 are provided with matching serrated interlocking structures at the upper and lower joints. The first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 have two sets of upper and lower serrated interlocking structures that cooperate with each other and can bite each other tightly, which is convenient for installation and will not damage other structures in the light port assembly when disassembling.

[0096] For the specific structure of the optical port assembly, please refer to Embodiment 1. It will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0097] In this embodiment, under the adaptive elastic force of the elastic shielding sleeve 4a, when the optical cable swings, the MT connector 4 also swings accordingly. No gap is generated at the mating point between the optical fiber connector and the MT connector 4, ensuring stable transmission of the optical signal. Furthermore, the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 have simple structures and are easy to assemble.

[0098] Example 3:

[0099] Unlike Embodiment 2, this embodiment improves the structure of the first light mask 2, the second light mask 3, the first positioning protrusion 10, and the second positioning protrusion 11, providing another optional assembly method.

[0100] In one embodiment, such as Figure 16 As shown, both the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 are provided with a recess 11a, and both the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 are provided with a second buckle 14a that matches the recess 11a. The first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 are first assembled into a whole, and after the elastic shielding sleeve 4a is engaged with the MT connector 4, they are inserted together into the guide port 12. The whole formed by the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 is pushed from the tail of the MT connector 4 toward the optical port adapter 1 until the second buckle 14a on the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 is placed in the recess 11a to position the MT connector 4.

[0101] The number of recesses 11a provided on each positioning protrusion is not limited and can be determined according to the actual situation. For example, the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11 are each provided with two recesses 11a, and the protrusions 11 on the same positioning protrusion are separated by a groove.

[0102] In this embodiment, the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 can be assembled into a whole by welding or by an integral design. The second buckles 14a on the two light masks can slide along the MT connector 4 toward the optical port adapter 1. The second buckles 14a have elasticity and are compressed when sliding until the second buckles 14a slide into the recess 11a. Then the second buckles 14a restore their deformation and engage with the recess 11a. Correspondingly, baffles are provided on the rear side of the first light mask 2 and the second light mask 3 to fix the MT connector 4.

[0103] For the specific structure of the optical port assembly, please refer to Embodiment 1. It will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0104] In this embodiment, under the adaptive elastic force of the elastic shielding sleeve 4a, when the optical cable swings, the MT connector 4 also swings accordingly. No gap is generated at the mating point between the optical fiber connector and the MT connector 4, ensuring stable transmission of the optical signal. Furthermore, the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3 have simple structures and are easy to assemble.

[0105] Example 4:

[0106] The foregoing embodiments proposed an optical port assembly. This embodiment proposes an assembly method for the optical port assembly, such as... Figure 17 As shown, it includes:

[0107] Step 101: Push the first light mask 2 toward the first positioning protrusion 10 so that the first light mask 2 is engaged with the first positioning protrusion 10.

[0108] In one embodiment, the assembly method is described using an elastic structure consisting of a second elastic claw 30 and a first elastic claw 20.

[0109] The first light mask 2 is pushed from the rear of the light port adapter 1 towards the light port adapter 1. The first elastic claw 20 of the first light mask 2 extends into the guide port 12 of the light port adapter 1 until the first locking port 22 of the first light mask 2 is fitted onto the first locking head 14 on the light port adapter 1. The fifth bending surface 24 of the first light mask 2 is in contact with the end face of the first positioning protrusion 10 to complete the assembly of the first light mask 2.

[0110] Step 102: Push the second light mask 3 toward the second positioning protrusion 11 so that the second light mask 3 engages with the second positioning protrusion 11.

[0111] The second light mask 3 is pushed from the rear of the light port adapter 1 towards the light port adapter 1. The second elastic claw 30 of the second light mask 3 extends into the guide port 12 of the light port adapter 1 until the second locking port of the second light mask 3 is fitted onto the second locking port 32 on the light port adapter 1. The sixth bending surface 34 of the second light mask 3 fits against the end face of the second positioning protrusion 11 to complete the assembly of the second light mask 3.

[0112] Step 103: Insert the MT connector 4 into the guide port 12, wherein the periphery of the MT connector 4 is surrounded by an elastic structure. After installing the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3, insert the elastic base 40 of the MT connector 4 into the guide port 12. The upper and lower surfaces of the elastic base 40 on the MT connector 4 abut against the second elastic claw 30 and the first elastic claw 20, respectively, to provide elastic force for the MT connector 4 to move up and down; until the stop seat 41 on the MT connector 4 abuts against the first positioning protrusion 10 and the second positioning protrusion 11, respectively, to limit the insertion length of the elastic base 40; place the assembled optical port adapter 1, the two optical masks, and the MT connector 4 together in the corresponding positions in the base 5 (see Embodiment 1 for details), and then place the cover plate 6 on the base 5; finally, insert the fiber optic connector into the connection port 160 on the connection base 16 of the fiber optic adapter to complete the assembly and installation process of the optical port assembly.

[0113] In this embodiment, the MT connector 4 is fixed to the optical port adapter 1 by the first optical mask 2 and the second optical mask 3. The elastic structure around the MT connector 4 applies a symmetrical elastic force to the MT connector 4. In the initial state, the MT connector 4 is in a central position in the optical port adapter 1. If the optical cable swings, the MT connector 4 can be driven to swing together with the optical fiber connector within a small range due to the adaptive elastic force of the elastic structure. No gap will be generated at the mating point of the optical fiber connector and the MT connector 4, ensuring stable transmission of optical signals.

[0114] For the structure of the optical port assembly, please refer to other embodiments; it will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0115] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An optical port assembly, characterized in that, include: Optical port adapter (1), first optical mask (2), second optical mask (3) and MT connector (4); the MT connector (4) is inserted into the optical port adapter (1), and the first optical mask (2) and the second optical mask (3) are snapped and fixed to the optical port adapter (1) to fix the MT connector (4). One end of the optical port adapter (1) is provided with a first positioning protrusion (10) and a second positioning protrusion (11). A guide opening (12) is formed between the first positioning protrusion (10) and the second positioning protrusion (11). The MT connector (4) is inserted into the guide opening (12). The first optical mask (2) covers and wraps the first positioning protrusion (10), and the second optical mask (3) covers and wraps the second positioning protrusion (11). An elastic structure is provided on the periphery of the MT connector (4). The rear end of the first light mask (2) is folded inward and extended, and the extended part is processed into a first elastic claw (20). The first elastic claw (20) extends into the guide opening (12) and abuts against the inner side of the first positioning protrusion (10). The rear end of the second light mask (3) is folded inward and extended, and the extended part is processed into a second elastic claw (30). The second elastic claw (30) extends into the guide opening (12) and abuts against the inner side of the second positioning protrusion (11). The periphery of the MT connector (4) is surrounded by an elastic structure formed by the first elastic claw (20) and the second elastic claw (30).

2. The optical port assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first elastic claw (20) includes at least two first elastic pieces (200), with a gap between adjacent first elastic pieces (200); the second elastic claw (30) includes at least two second elastic pieces (300), with a gap between adjacent second elastic pieces (300).

3. The optical port assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The MT connector (4) includes an elastic base (40), a stop seat (41), and a guide pin seat (42) arranged in sequence; the elastic base (40) is inserted into the guide port (12), the front end face of the stop seat (41) abuts against the end faces of the first positioning protrusion (10) and the second positioning protrusion (11), and at least two guide pins (43) are provided in the guide pin seat (42). The guide pin base (42) is symmetrically provided with a first connector (420) and a second connector (421) on both sides. One end of the first connector (420) and one end of the second connector (421) are respectively connected to the power supply pin on the circuit board (8). The other ends of the first connector (420) and the second connector (421) are respectively connected to the corresponding guide pin (43) to transmit the electrical energy from the circuit board (8) to the conductive line of the optical port adapter (1).

4. The optical port assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The optical port adapter (1) is provided with a fixed boss (13). The first positioning protrusion (10) and the second positioning protrusion (11) are provided on one end face of the fixed boss (13). The upper and lower surfaces of the fixed boss (13) are respectively provided with a first lock head (14) and a second lock head (15). The first light mask (2) has a first locking opening (22) on its first folded surface (21), and the first locking opening (22) is locked and fixed with the first locking head (14). The second light mask (3) has a second locking opening (32) on its second folded surface (31), and the second locking opening (32) is locked and fixed with the second locking head (15).

5. The optical port assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first light mask (2) covers the shell of the first positioning protrusion (10) and extends to both sides to form a third bending surface (23), the third bending surface (23) wraps around the sides of the two positioning protrusions; the second light mask (3) covers the shell of the second positioning protrusion (11) and extends to both sides to form a fourth bending surface (33), the fourth bending surface (33) covers the outside of the third bending surface (23).

6. The optical port assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic structure is an elastic shielding sleeve (4a), which is fitted onto the MT connector (4).

7. The optical port assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first positioning protrusion (10) and the second positioning protrusion (11) are both provided with sliding grooves (7), and the first light mask (2) and the second light mask (3) are both provided with first buckles (10a) that match the sliding grooves (7). The first light mask (2) and the second light mask (3) are pushed toward the light port adapter (1) from both sides until the first buckle (10a) on the first light mask (2) and the second light mask (3) is placed in the sliding groove (7).

8. The optical port assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, Both the first positioning protrusion (10) and the second positioning protrusion (11) are provided with a recess (11a), and both the first light mask (2) and the second light mask (3) are provided with a second buckle (14a) that matches the recess (11a). The entire assembly formed by the first light mask (2) and the second light mask (3) is pushed from the tail of the MT connector (4) toward the light port adapter (1) until the second buckle (14a) on the first light mask (2) and the second light mask (3) is placed in the recess (11a).

9. A method for assembling an optical port assembly, the method being used to assemble the optical port assembly as described in any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, include: Push the first light mask (2) toward the first positioning protrusion (10) so that the first light mask (2) is engaged with the first positioning protrusion (10); Push the second light mask (3) toward the second positioning protrusion (11) so that the second light mask (3) is engaged with the second positioning protrusion (11); The MT connector (4) is inserted into the guide port (12), wherein the periphery of the MT connector (4) is surrounded by an elastic structure.

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