Pluggable optical module and optical communication equipment

Abstract

The invention discloses a pluggable optical module and optical communication equipment. The optical module comprises a shell which is provided with a plurality of surfaces, and the plurality of surfaces are arranged in the circumferential direction and form an accommodating cavity in a surrounding mode; the optical device is arranged in the accommodating cavity of the shell, and the optical device is used for realizing conversion between an optical signal and an electric signal; the elastic structural part is arranged on the shell in a sleeving mode and comprises a main body part, and the main body part is arranged around the multiple faces of the shell and attached to the shell; wherein one end of each part of the main body part is provided with an elastic part, and the other end of each part of the main body part is provided with a bending part; the elastic part protrudes relative to the shell; the shell is provided with a groove, and the bending part is bent towards the shell relative to the main body part and is located in the groove. According to the optical module, the bending part is arranged on the elastic structural member and is matched with the groove of the shell, so that the elastic structural member can be well fixed on the shell of the optical module, the possibility of electromagnetic wave overflow is reduced as much as possible, and electromagnetic interference is shielded.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application. The application number of the original application is 202080100847.0, and the original application date is June 12, 2020. The entire content of the original application is incorporated into this application by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to the technical field of optical communications, and in particular to a pluggable optical module and optical communication equipment. Background Art

[0003] As optical communication products tend to be more miniaturized, highly integrated, and high-speed, optical modules with specifications such as SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) or SFP+ are also widely used.

[0004] Optical modules feature elastic components. When used with other devices to perform photoelectric or electro-optical conversion, these components connect the module housing and the other devices to prevent electromagnetic waves from escaping and minimize electromagnetic interference. However, after repeated use, the elastic components can become loose between the module housing and the device, reducing their shielding effectiveness. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present application provides a pluggable optical module and optical communication equipment to improve the problem that the shielding effect of the elastic structural member of the optical module deteriorates after repeated use.

[0006] In order to improve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present application provides a pluggable optical module, comprising: a shell, the shell having multiple surfaces, the multiple surfaces being arranged along the circumferential direction and surrounding to form an accommodating cavity; an optical device being arranged in the accommodating cavity of the shell, the optical device being used to realize the conversion between optical signals and electrical signals; an elastic structural member being sleeved on the shell, the elastic structural member comprising: a main body, the main body being arranged around the multiple surfaces of the shell and being fitted with the shell; wherein the main body is provided with an elastic portion at one end along the axial direction and a bending portion at the other end along the axial direction; the elastic portion is protruding relative to the shell; a groove is provided on the shell, the bending portion is bent toward the shell relative to the main body, and is located in the groove. It should be understood that, through the cooperation between the bent portion and the groove of the shell, the elastic structural member and the edge of the elastic structural member are relatively unlikely to come into contact with the cage of other equipment; thereby, to a certain extent, the mutual scratching between the elastic structural member and the cage can be avoided, ensuring that after multiple uses of the optical module, the elastic structural member can still be well clamped between the shell and the cage to shield electromagnetic interference and ensure the normal operation of the optical module.

[0007] In some embodiments, the housing further comprises a boss; the boss is located to one side of the groove and away from the elastic structural member. It should be understood that when inserting the optical module into the cage, the boss will preferentially contact the inner wall of the cage. Conversely, the boss forms a certain angle with the inner wall of the cage, making it less likely that the subsequent bend of the elastic structural member will contact the inner wall of the cage, thereby ensuring smooth insertion and removal of the optical module. Thus, when the optical module is in use, the elastic structural member can be effectively clamped between the housing and the cage to shield electromagnetic interference.

[0008] In some embodiments, the height difference between the boss and the groove is greater than the height difference between the main body and the groove; alternatively, the height difference between the boss and the groove is equal to the height difference between the main body and the groove. This prevents the edge of the bent portion from scraping against the inner wall of the cage during insertion and removal of the optical module, reducing the possibility of deformation of the elastic structural member during insertion and removal, thereby ensuring the elastic structural member's shielding effect against electromagnetic waves.

[0009] In some embodiments, the boss is in the shape of an elongated strip and is disposed around one side of the groove. It should be understood that the elongated strip-shaped boss can increase the probability of contact with the inner wall of the cage to facilitate plugging and unplugging of the optical module.

[0010] In some embodiments, the number of the bosses is multiple, and the bosses are spaced apart on one side of the groove. It should be understood that the multiple bosses can also increase the possibility of contact with the inner wall of the cage, so as to facilitate smooth insertion and removal of the optical module.

[0011] In some embodiments, the angle between the bent portion and the main body is 8° to 20°. Based on this relatively small angle, the forming of the bent portion can be facilitated in the manufacturing process of the elastic structural member, thereby improving the manufacturing efficiency of the elastic structural member. In the process of inserting or removing the optical module from the cage, since the angle between the main body and the bent portion is small, even if there is a possibility of contact between the inner wall of the cage and the bent portion, it can be relatively smoothly transitioned to the contact between the main body and the inner wall of the cage; thus, there will be no feeling of sticking during the process of inserting and removing the optical module, thereby reducing the possibility of deformation of the elastic structural member to ensure the shielding effect and improve the user experience of the optical module.

[0012] The present application also provides another pluggable optical module, comprising: a housing having multiple faces arranged circumferentially and surrounding a housing cavity; an optical device disposed within the housing cavity, the optical device configured to convert optical signals into electrical signals; and a main body disposed around the multiple faces of the housing and in contact with the housing. The main body comprises an elastic portion at each axial end, the elastic portion protruding relative to the housing; and the housing comprises a boss located on one side of the elastic structure and distal from the elastic portion. It should be understood that due to the structure of the boss, when the optical module is inserted into a cage, the boss preferentially contacts the inner wall of the cage. Conversely, the boss forms a certain angle with the inner wall of the cage, making it less likely that the subsequent bent portion of the elastic structure contacts the inner wall, thereby ensuring smooth insertion and removal of the optical module. Due to the boss structure, the elastic structure can remain securely clamped between the housing and the cage even after repeated use of the optical module, shielding it from electromagnetic interference.

[0013] In some embodiments, the optical module further includes a conductive rubber ring configured to fit over the transceiver of the optical device. The housing includes an optical port for inserting the transceiver of the optical device; the conductive rubber ring seals between the transceiver and the housing. This conductive rubber ring can cooperate with the housing, elastic structural member, and cage to shield the optical port from electromagnetic interference, ensuring proper operation of the optical module.

[0014] In some embodiments, the elastic portion includes a plurality of spaced-apart retaining sheets, with a gap formed between two adjacent retaining sheets. One end of the gap is an open end, and the other end is a closed end, wherein the closed end is an arc-shaped notch formed on the main body. Based on this, the width of the connecting end of each retaining sheet is smaller than that of the other ends (such as the free end or the retaining end) to reduce the stress of the elastic deformation of the retaining sheet, making it easier for users to plug and unplug the optical module. In addition, based on these notches, the stress of the bending of the main body can also be reduced, so that the main body can be bent to form multiple surfaces and adapt to the outer contour of the shell.

[0015] In some embodiments, the shell includes a top surface, a first side surface, a bottom surface, and a second side surface connected in sequence; a positioning column is provided on the top surface, and a buckle is provided on the bottom surface; the main body includes a first part, a second part, and a third part connected in sequence; the first part is in contact with the first side surface, the second part is in contact with the top surface, and the third part is in contact with the second side surface; the main body also includes two buckle parts, which are respectively connected to the first part and the third part, and are both away from the second part; the second part has a positioning hole, and the two buckle parts have a slot; the positioning hole is used for the positioning column to pass through; the slot is used for the buckle to buckle. Based on this, through the cooperation of the positioning hole, the slot, the positioning column, and the buckle, the elastic structural member can be relatively firmly set on the shell, so that the elastic structural member can realize related connection, guidance, shielding and other functions.

[0016] In some embodiments, the interface between the bent portion and the main body is smooth. Consequently, there is no noticeable crease at the interface between the bent portion and the main body. When inserting or removing the optical module from the cage, even if the cage contacts the bent portion of the elastic structure, the main body can smoothly transition to contact with the cage without causing any problems such as jamming or scratching, thereby improving the performance of the optical module.

[0017] In some embodiments, the abutting piece is convexly arc-shaped. The convexly arc-shaped abutting piece includes a connecting end, an abutting end, and a free end. The abutting end is located between the connecting end and the free end. The connecting end is connected to the main body; the abutting end is used to abut the inner wall of the cage after the optical module is inserted into the cage; the free end is used to elastically deform downward to abut the housing after the optical module is inserted into the cage, thereby achieving electrical connection between the housing, the elastic structural member, and the cage.

[0018] This application also provides an optical communication device, comprising: a cage, and the optical module described in each of the aforementioned embodiments. The optical module is configured to be inserted into and used in conjunction with the cage. After the optical module is inserted into the cage, the elastic structural member can be stably clamped between the housing and the cage; thereby, electromagnetic interference is shielded by the cooperation of the housing, the elastic structural member, and the cage. In some embodiments, the optical communication device may be a router or a base station.

[0019] This application reduces the possibility of scraping between the elastic member and the inner wall of the cage by providing a bend on the elastic member that mates with the groove of the housing, or by providing a boss on the housing. This ensures that the optical module can be smoothly inserted and removed even after repeated use. Based on this, the elastic member can be firmly fixed to the housing of the optical module, minimizing the possibility of electromagnetic wave overflow and shielding electromagnetic interference. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a perspective schematic diagram of an optical module and a cage according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0021] Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a top view of an optical module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0022] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is an exploded schematic diagram of an optical module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0023] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A partially enlarged schematic diagram of the optical module in area I.

[0024] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of an elastic structural member according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0025] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the optical module in area II.

[0026] Figure 7 It is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a shell according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0027] Figure 8 It is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a shell according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0028] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the upper shell of an embodiment of the present application.

[0029] Figure 10 Schematic diagram of the lower shell of an embodiment of the present application.

[0030] Figure 11 FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an optical module according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] In order to have a clearer understanding of the technical features, purposes and effects of this application, the specific implementation methods of this application are now described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] The optical module can be used in conjunction with other devices to achieve functions such as photoelectric conversion and / or electro-optical conversion. For example, one end of the optical module can be inserted into the cage of other devices. An optical device is provided in the optical module, and the transceiver end of the optical device is located at the other end of the optical module. The transceiver end of the optical device can be connected to the adapter end of the optical fiber, so that the optical module can realize functions such as conversion and transmission of photoelectric signals between the optical fiber and other devices. Accordingly, the optical module will be provided with an elastic structural member, which will be in contact with the cage to prevent electromagnetic waves from overflowing and achieve shielding against electromagnetic interference. Based on the shielding requirements, the optical module will set the elastic structural member outside the shell and surround the shell; when the optical module is inserted into the cage, the elastic structural member is correspondingly located between the shell and the cage to connect the cage and the shell and achieve the shielding function.

[0033] However, precisely because the elastic structural member is disposed outside the housing, it protrudes relative to the housing. When the user inserts or removes the optical module from the cage, the protruding elastic structural member can easily cause misalignment and jamming between the optical module and the cage, preventing the optical module from being smoothly inserted or removed from the cage. Furthermore, during insertion or removal, the elastic structural member can easily scrape against the inner wall of the cage. Since the edges of the elastic structural member are relatively sharp, this can also wear the inner wall of the cage to a certain extent and increase the friction coefficient of the inner wall of the cage. This makes it more likely that jamming and scraping will occur between the optical module and the cage.

[0034] It should be understood that due to the problems of jamming and scratching between the optical module and the cage, the inner wall of the cage and the elastic structural parts are easily scratched during the process of the optical module getting stuck or scratched, and the elastic structural parts are also prone to irreversible deformation, which leads to problems such as looseness and poor contact between the elastic structural parts and the housing of the optical module; accordingly, the shielding effect of the elastic structural parts on electromagnetic waves will also deteriorate, thereby affecting the conversion and transmission of photoelectric signals by the optical module.

[0035] To address the aforementioned issues, embodiments of the present application provide an optical module and an optical communication device utilizing the same. The design of the optical module's elastic structural components and housing improves the smoothness of inserting and removing the optical module from the cage, ensuring the elastic structural components' electromagnetic shielding effectiveness, thereby enhancing the user experience. It should be understood that the optical communication device may be, but is not limited to, a router or a base station.

[0036] Please refer to Figures 1 to 11 The present invention provides a pluggable optical module 100 in an embodiment. The optical module 100 can be smoothly inserted into or removed from a cage 200, thereby reducing the possibility of scratching the cage 200. It should be understood that the optical module 100 in various embodiments may include SFP, SFP+, QSFP, and other types of optical modules 100, without limitation.

[0037] Please refer to the Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 The optical module 100 includes a housing 110 and an elastic structural member 120. The housing 110 has multiple surfaces that are arranged along the circumference and surround a receiving cavity. The receiving cavity can accommodate relevant electronic components to achieve functions such as photoelectric conversion and / or electro-optical conversion. It should be understood that the shape of the housing 110 in each embodiment is generally a quadrangular prism. Figures 1 to 3 In each embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the quadrangular prism is defined as the axial direction, and the direction surrounding the axial direction is defined as the circumferential direction. It should be understood that the longitudinal direction or axial direction also refers to the direction in which the optical module 100 is inserted into the cage 200. In other embodiments, the shape of the optical module housing can be modified as needed; for example, the housing can be generally shaped as a triangular prism, a cylinder, or a semi-cylinder, etc., and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0038] Please refer to Figure 3 In some embodiments, the housing 110 of the optical module 100 can be formed by combining two parts. For example, the housing 110 includes an upper shell 112 and a lower shell 114 that are opposed to each other, and the upper shell 112 and the lower shell 114 are fixed together by a detachable connection method such as a threaded connection or a snap-fit connection. In other embodiments, the housing of the optical module can be composed of at least three parts; for example, the housing includes a front cover, a rear cover, and a bottom cover, and the front cover and the rear cover are each detachably connected to the bottom cover. This is not limited to this.

[0039] Please refer to the Figure 4 and Figure 5 To reduce the possibility of the optical module 100 scraping against the cage 200 during insertion or removal, the housing 110 of various embodiments has a groove 116 into which the elastic structure 120 extends, thereby accommodating the edge of the elastic structure 120. Accordingly, the elastic structure 120 and its edge are less likely to come into contact with the cage, thereby preventing scraping between the elastic structure 120 and the cage to a certain extent. This reduces wear between the optical module 100 and the inner wall of the cage, ensuring that both the inner wall of the cage and the elastic structure 120 maintain a relatively smooth surface (i.e., a low coefficient of friction) for smooth insertion and removal.

[0040] Please synchronize reference again Figure 4 and Figure 5The elastic structural member 120 of each embodiment includes a main body 122 and a bent portion 124. The main body 122 of the elastic structural member 120 includes multiple connected parts, with a certain angle between each two adjacent parts, so that the main body 122 is generally C-shaped. The C-shaped main body 122 can wrap around the outer surface of the housing 110 and clamp the housing 110 to fit the housing 110 as closely as possible.

[0041] Thus, while the elastic structural member 120 is sleeved on the housing 110, it also facilitates a tight connection between the housing 110 and the elastic structural member 120, ensuring the electromagnetic interference shielding effect of the optical module 100 during operation. It should be understood that this sleeve arrangement means that the elastic structural member 120 can stably clamp the housing 110 through its "C"-shaped main body 122, and does not require the elastic structural member 120 to surround the housing 110 in a 360-degree manner.

[0042] In some embodiments, corresponding to the structure of the groove 116 of the housing 110, the bent portion 124 of the elastic structural member 120 is located on one side of the main body 122 and is bent toward the housing 110 relative to the main body 122. It should be understood that Figure 4 and Figure 5 , one end of each part of the main body 122 is provided with a bending portion 124. For example: the main body includes five parts connected in sequence, then one end of the five parts will be provided with a bending portion. In this way, in the process of plugging the optical module into the cage, based on the structure of the bending portion, the possibility of the elastic structural member and the cage being scratched can be reduced. After the optical module has been used many times, the elastic structural member can still be well fixed between the shell and the cage to reduce the possibility of electromagnetic wave overflow. It should be understood that the edge of the bending portion 124 is the edge of the elastic structural member 120. As Figure 4 After the elastic structural member 120 is sleeved onto the housing 110 , the main body 122 of the elastic structural member 120 can fit into the housing 110 ; correspondingly, the bent portion 124 falls into the groove 116 .

[0043] In some embodiments, the bent portion 124 may be bent relative to the main portion 122 until it contacts the groove 116; alternatively, the bent portion 124 may bend slightly and not contact the groove 116. This is determined by factors such as the depth of the groove 116, the length / thickness of the bent portion 124, and the angle between the bent portion 124 and the main portion 122, and is not limited in this application.

[0044] Due to the cooperation between the groove 116 of the housing 110, the main body 122 of the elastic structural member 120, and the bent portion 124, when the optical module 100 is inserted into or removed from the cage, the bent portion 124 is unlikely to come into contact with the cage, and the elastic structural member 120 and its edge are unlikely to scrape against the inner wall of the cage. This reduces the possibility of scratches on the surface of the elastic structural member 120 and the inner wall of the cage, thereby extending the service life of the elastic structural member 120 and the optical module 100 using the elastic structural member 120.

[0045] Please refer to Figure 5 In some embodiments, the bending portion 124 is in the shape of an elongated strip. Correspondingly, the groove 116 is in the shape of a strip to accommodate the bending portion 124 .

[0046] Please refer to Figure 4 In some embodiments, the angle α between the elongated bent portion 124 and the main body 122 is 8° to 20°, for example, 9°, 10°, 11°, 12°, 13°, 14°, 15°, 16°, 17°, 18°, or 19°. It should be understood that this relatively small angle α facilitates the formation of the bent portion 124 during the manufacturing process of the elastic structural member 120, thereby improving the manufacturing efficiency of the elastic structural member 120. During the insertion or removal of the optical module 100 from the cage, since the angle α between the main body 122 and the bent portion 124 is relatively small (i.e., the main body 122 and the bent portion 124 are relatively flat), even if there is a possibility of contact between the inner wall of the cage and the bent portion 124, a relatively smooth transition can be achieved for the main body 122 to contact the inner wall of the cage. As a result, there is no sense of sticking during the insertion and removal of the optical module 100, thereby improving the user experience of the optical module 100.

[0047] In some other embodiments, the bend is shaped like an arc that bends toward the groove. This allows for a smooth transition between the bend and the main body, without forming a noticeable crease at the junction of the bend and the main body. Consequently, when inserting or removing the optical module from the cage, even if the cage contacts the bend of the elastic structural member, a smooth transition can be achieved, with no risk of jamming or scratching. This ensures the elastic structural member's electromagnetic shielding effectiveness and enhances the optical module's performance.

[0048] As analyzed above, in each embodiment of the optical module 100, the interface between the bent portion 124 of the elastic structural member 120 and the main body 122 is relatively smooth. In some embodiments, even if the bent portion 124 contacts the inner wall of the cage, as the optical module 100 is inserted, the optical module 100 can smoothly transition to contact between the main body 122 and the inner wall of the cage. Conversely, during the process of removing the optical module 100 from the cage, the contact between the main body 122 and the inner wall of the cage can also smoothly transition to contact between the bent portion 124 and the inner wall of the cage. Based on this, the cooperation between the bent portion 124 and the main body 122 effectively serves as a guide during insertion and removal of the optical module 100, guiding the user.

[0049] Please refer to the Figure 5 and Figure 6 The elastic structural member 120 of each embodiment further includes an elastic portion 126, which is located on the side of the main body 122 away from the bent portion 124; that is, along the axial direction of the optical module 100, the main body 122 of the elastic structural member 120 is located between the bent portion 124 and the elastic portion 126. It should be understood that each portion of the main body has a bent portion at one end and an elastic portion at the other end. Unlike the bent portion 124, the elastic portion 126 protrudes relative to the main body 122 and has a certain degree of elastic deformation capability. Therefore, when the optical module 100 is inserted into the cage, the elastic portion 126 first contacts the cage and, under external forces, gradually bends toward the housing 110 through elastic deformation. It should be understood that when the optical module 100 is inserted into the cage, the elastic portion 126 is held between the inner wall of the cage and the housing 110 ; thus, the optical module 100 can cooperate with the cage through the housing 110 and the elastic structural member 120 to achieve shielding against electromagnetic interference.

[0050] In some embodiments, the elastic portion 126 includes a plurality of abutting pieces 128, which are spaced apart and can be clamped between the housing 110 and the cage through elastic deformation. Each abutting piece 128 has a convex arc shape and has a connecting end 128a, an abutting end 128b, and a free end 128c. The abutting end 128b is located between the connecting end 128a and the free end 128c. The connecting end 128a is connected to the main body 122; the abutting end 128b is used to contact the inner wall of the cage to achieve electrical connection; and the free end 128c is the end of the abutting piece 128 away from the main body 122. When the optical module 100 is inserted into the cage, the free end 128c is pressed downward due to elastic deformation until it contacts the housing 110, thereby improving the overall connection between the housing 110, the elastic structure 120, and the cage, thereby ensuring electromagnetic interference shielding.

[0051] In some embodiments, a gap is formed between two adjacent supporting pieces 128. One end of the gap is an open end, that is, an end away from the main body 122. The other end of the gap is a closed end; wherein, the closed end is an arc-shaped notch 123 formed on the main body 122. Based on the arc-shaped notch 123, the width of the connecting end 128a of each supporting piece 128 is smaller than that of the other ends (such as the free end 128c or the supporting end 128b) to reduce the stress of the elastic deformation of the supporting piece 128, making it easier for users to plug and unplug the optical module 100. In addition, based on these arc-shaped notches 123, the stress of the bending of the main body 122 can also be reduced, so that the main body 122 can be bent to form multiple parts and adapt to the outer contour of the shell 110.

[0052] Please synchronize reference again Figure 3 and Figure 4 To ensure smooth insertion and removal of the optical module 100, each embodiment of the optical module 100 includes, in addition to the groove 116 provided on the housing 110, a boss 118 provided on the housing 110 to reduce the possibility of the optical module 100 getting stuck. The boss 118 is located on the side of the groove 116 away from the elastic structure 120. When inserting the optical module 100 into the cage, the boss 118 of the housing 110 will first extend into the cage, followed by the elastic structure 120. Based on this, when inserting the optical module 100 into the cage, the boss 118 will preferentially contact the inner wall of the cage; in contrast, a certain angle will be formed between the boss 118 and the inner wall of the cage, making it less likely that the subsequent bent portion 124 of the elastic structure 120 will contact the inner wall of the cage, thereby ensuring smooth insertion and removal of the optical module 100.

[0053] Please synchronize reference again Figure 3 and Figure 4In some embodiments, the housing 110 is shaped generally like a quadrangular prism, with four opposing sidewalls. A reference plane P is defined on each sidewall of the housing 110. Accordingly, the boss 118 is formed by the housing 110 protruding from the reference plane P, while the groove 116 is formed by the housing 110 recessing from the reference plane P. It should be understood that during insertion and removal of the optical module 100, the reference planes P and bosses 118 easily contact the inner wall of the cage. To this end, the edges of the bosses 118 are rounded or chamfered. This allows for a relatively smooth transition from the reference planes to the bosses 118 during contact between the cage's inner wall and the housing 110, reducing the possibility of jamming or scratching between the optical module and the cage (during the transition from the reference plane P to the bosses 118). Consequently, the elastic structural member 120 remains securely fixed to the housing 110 even after repeated use of the optical module 100. Subsequently, when the optical module 100 is used in conjunction with the cage, the elastic structural member 120 can be stably clamped between the housing 110 and the cage to shield electromagnetic interference and ensure the normal operation of the optical module 100 .

[0054] Typically, the cage is larger than the optical module 100 to facilitate insertion; this can be compared to the size relationship between a drawer and a cabinet. Therefore, during insertion or removal, the optical module 100 may not be aligned directly with the cage. In some embodiments, the optical module 100 may be inserted or removed at an angle relative to the inner wall of the cage. This makes it more likely that the elastic components of the optical module will scrape against the inner wall of the cage, potentially causing problems with insertion and removal.

[0055] It should be understood that the more frequently the optical module scrapes against the cage, the more likely its elastic structure will deform and become loose relative to the shell. As a result, after the optical module has been used a certain number of times, a gap is easily formed between the elastic structure and the shell, allowing the elastic structure to move relative to each other. This gap prevents the elastic structure from being tightly arranged on the shell, and the shielding effect of the elastic structure on electromagnetic waves will also deteriorate. In the optical module 100 of each embodiment of the present application, the cooperation of the boss 118 and the groove 116 of the shell 110, and the main body 122 and the bend 124 of the elastic structure 120 can reduce the probability of the optical module 100 scraping against the inner wall of the cage, ensuring that after multiple uses, the elastic structure 120 can still be relatively tightly arranged on the shell 110, so as to achieve smooth insertion and removal of the optical module 100 and ensure the shielding effect of the elastic structure 120 on electromagnetic waves.

[0056] In the optical module 100 of various embodiments of the present application, the height difference between the boss 118 and the groove 116 is greater than the height difference between the main body 122 and the groove 116; alternatively, the height difference between the boss 118 and the groove 116 is equal to the height difference between the main body 122 and the groove 116. Accordingly, during insertion and removal of the optical module 100, the edge of the bent portion 124 is prevented from scraping against the inner wall of the cage, thereby ensuring the shielding effect of the elastic structural member 120. Furthermore, the structure of the boss 118 reduces the likelihood of scratching the inner wall of the cage.

[0057] Please refer to Figure 7 In some embodiments, the boss 118 is in the shape of an elongated strip and is disposed along one side of the groove 116. The elongated boss 118 can increase the probability of contact with the inner wall of the cage to facilitate plugging and unplugging the optical module 100. Figure 8 In some other embodiments, the number of bosses 118 is multiple, and the multiple bosses 118 are spaced apart and arranged on the side of the groove 116 away from the elastic structure 120. Similar to the long strip bosses, the multiple bosses 118 can also improve the possibility of contact with the inner wall of the cage, so as to facilitate smooth insertion and removal of the optical module 100.

[0058] Please refer to the Figure 5 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some embodiments, the housing 110 includes a top surface 110a, a first side surface 110b, a second side surface 110c, and a bottom surface 110d. The first side surface 110b is connected between the top surface 110a and the bottom surface 110d, and the second side surface 110c is also connected between the top surface 110a and the bottom surface 110d. The top surface 110a, the first side surface 110b, the second side surface 110c, and the bottom surface 110d collectively form a receiving cavity to accommodate electronic components such as optical devices.

[0059] like Figure 5 Corresponding to the structure of the housing 110, the main body 122 includes a snap-on portion 122e, a first portion 122a, a second portion 122b, a third portion 122c, and a snap-on portion 122d, which are connected in sequence. The first portion 122a is aligned with the first side surface 110b, the second portion 122b is aligned with the top surface 110a, and the third portion 122c is aligned with the second side surface 110c. Both snap-on portions (122d, 122e) are aligned with the bottom surface 110d. Along the axial direction of the optical module 100, each of the five portions (122a-122e) is provided with an elastic portion 126 at one end and a bent portion 124 at the other end, to facilitate smooth insertion and removal of the optical module 100 and ensure the shielding effect of the elastic structural member 120.

[0060] In some embodiments, to facilitate securing the elastic structural member 120 to the housing 110, a positioning hole 120a is provided on the second portion 122b of the elastic structural member 120, and a slot 120b is provided on each of the two snap-fit portions (122d, 122e). Correspondingly, a positioning post 110e is provided on the top surface 110a of the housing 110, and a snap 110f is provided on the bottom surface 110d. The positioning post 110e can pass through the positioning hole 120a to determine the installation position of the elastic structural member 120. The snap 110f can then engage with the slot 120b to secure the elastic structural member 120 to the housing 110. Thus, through the coordination of the positioning hole 120a, the slot 120b, the positioning post 110e, and the snap 110f, the elastic structural member 120 can be relatively firmly secured to the housing 110, allowing the elastic structural member 120 to perform related connection, guiding, and shielding functions.

[0061] In some embodiments, since the positioning hole 120 a and the locking slot 120 b are located on different parts of the main body 122 , the main body 122 of the elastic structural member 120 can be fixed at multiple angles to ensure that the elastic structural member 120 fits tightly with the housing 110 .

[0062] In some embodiments, because the functions of the groove 116 and the boss 118 are related but distinct, the optical module 100 of each embodiment may utilize the boss 118 alone, without necessarily requiring the groove 116 and the elastic structural member 120 having the bent portion 124. In other words, the housing 110 of the optical module 100 provided in each embodiment may only have the boss 118 structure, without the groove 116. Accordingly, the elastic structural member 120 may only have the main body 122 and the elastic portion 126, without the bent portion 124.

[0063] It should be understood that due to the structure of boss 118, boss 118 will preferentially contact the inner wall of the cage when inserting the optical module 100 into the cage. Conversely, boss 118 forms a certain angle with the inner wall of the cage, which prevents the edge of the elastic structure 120 from contacting the inner wall, thus ensuring smooth insertion and removal of the optical module 100. After multiple uses of the optical module 100, the elastic structure 120 can still be stably fixed to the housing 110. During subsequent use of the optical module 100, the elastic structure 120 can also be clamped between the housing 110 and the cage to shield electromagnetic interference and ensure the normal operation of the optical module 100.

[0064] It should be understood that the number of bosses 118 in each embodiment is not necessarily limited to the same as the number of grooves 116, that is, the number of bosses 118 can be less than or equal to the number of grooves 116. It should be understood that the number of grooves 116 is determined based on the configuration of the bending portion 124. The relationship between the grooves 116 and the bosses 118 will be described below with examples. Figure 5 Since the main body 122 of the elastic structure 120 has five parts; correspondingly, the bending portion 124 is bent inward relative to the main body 122, so as to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The illustrated housing (112, 114) has five grooves 116. The five grooves 116 can fully accommodate the bent portion 124 of the elastic structure 120, so that the bent portion 124 can play a guiding role during the insertion and removal of the optical module 100.

[0065] In order to achieve smooth insertion and removal of the optical module 100, please refer to Figure 7 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 Taking the housing 110 with the upper housing 112 and the lower housing 114 detachably connected as an example, the number of bosses 118 is shown as two, and they are located on both sides of the housing 110. It should be understood that based on the usage habits of some users, the optical module may slightly shake left and right during the process of plugging and unplugging the optical module. This shaking can easily cause problems such as jamming and scratching between the elastic structural member and the inner wall of the cage. However, in the case of shaking of the optical module 100 in each embodiment of the present application, the bosses 118 on both sides of the housing 110 contact the inner wall of the cage, thereby reducing the above-mentioned jamming and scratching problems, so that the elastic structural member 120 is well fixed on the housing 110, thereby achieving smooth plugging and unplugging of the optical module 100 and ensuring the shielding effect of the elastic structural member 120 on electromagnetic waves.

[0066] As analyzed above, the optical module 100 can be used in conjunction with an optical fiber (not shown) and other equipment in the cage to achieve functions such as photoelectric conversion and / or electro-optical conversion. Correspondingly, the optical module 100 of each embodiment also includes an optical device 130; an optical port (not marked) is provided on the housing 110 of the optical module 100 for the transceiver end 132 of the optical device 130 to be inserted. It should be understood that the transceiver end 132 of the optical device 130 can be connected to the adapter end of the optical fiber to achieve the transmission of the optical signal. Since the main body of the optical device 130 is accommodated in the optical port, during the conversion and transmission of the photoelectric signal, the main body of the optical device 130 may have electromagnetic interference and affect the transmission of the optical signal. In this regard, please refer to Figure 11To enhance the shielding effect of the optical port, the optical module 100 of each embodiment further includes a conductive rubber ring 140. This conductive rubber ring 140 is elastic and can be stretched to a certain extent to fit over the transceiver 132 of the optical device 130. When the transceiver 132 of the optical device 130 is inserted into the optical port, the conductive rubber ring 140 seals between the housing 110 and the transceiver 132 of the optical device 130. In this manner, the conductive rubber ring 140 cooperates with the housing 110, the elastic structural member 120, and the cage to shield the optical port from electromagnetic interference, ensuring the proper operation of the optical module 100.

[0067] Please refer to the Figures 1 to 11 In some embodiments, the optical module 100 needs to be assembled before the optical module is inserted into the cage. For example, in a case where the housing 110 includes an upper housing 112 and a lower housing 114, the conductive rubber ring 140 is first placed over the transceiver 132 of the optical device 130, and then the transceiver 132 of the optical device 130 is placed in a specific position on the lower housing 114. The upper housing 112 and the lower housing 114 are detachably connected to secure the transceiver 132 between the upper and lower housings 112, 114. It should be understood that because the conductive rubber ring 140 is annular, after the optical module 100 is assembled, the annular conductive rubber ring 140 can surround the transceiver 132 of the optical device 130 360°. This surrounding configuration is less likely to create gaps between the conductive rubber ring 140, the transceiver 132, and the housing 110, thereby providing good shielding and preventing the transceiver 132 from colliding with the housing 110.

[0068] The above disclosure is merely a specific embodiment of the present application, but the present application is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art may make various modifications and variations to the present application without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application. Obviously, such modifications and variations should fall within the scope of protection claimed in the present application. In addition, although certain specific terms are used in this specification, these terms are merely for convenience of description and do not constitute any special limitation on the present application.

Claims

1. A pluggable optical module, characterized in that: It includes an optical device, a shell and an elastic structural member. The optical device is accommodated in the shell and is used to realize the conversion between optical signals and electrical signals. When the elastic structural member is installed on the shell, the main body of the elastic structural member is sleeved on the outer surface of the shell.

2. The optical module according to claim 1, wherein The main body includes an elastic portion and a bent portion. Along the axial direction of the elastic structural component, the elastic portion and the bent portion are arranged opposite to each other. The elastic portion protrudes relative to the shell, and the bent portion bends relative to the main body toward the shell.

3. The optical module according to claim 2, wherein: The housing is provided with a groove at a position corresponding to the bent portion, and the bent portion is received in the groove.

4. The optical module according to claim 3, wherein: The bent portion is in an arc shape that bends toward the groove.

5. The optical module according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The shell is further provided with a boss; the boss is located on one side of the groove and away from the elastic structural member.

6. The optical module according to claim 5, wherein: The height difference between the boss and the groove is greater than the height difference between the main body and the groove; or, The height difference between the boss and the groove is equal to the height difference between the main body and the groove.

7. The optical module according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The boss is in the shape of an elongated strip and is arranged around one side of the groove.

8. The optical module according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: There are multiple bosses, and the multiple bosses are arranged at intervals on one side of the groove.

9. The optical module according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein: The included angle between the bending portion and the main body is 8° to 20°.

10. The optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The optical module further includes a conductive rubber ring, which is used to be sleeved on the transceiver end of the optical device; An optical port is provided in the shell, and the optical port is used for inserting the transceiver end of the optical device; the conductive rubber ring is sealed between the transceiver end and the shell.

11. The optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The elastic portion of the main body includes a plurality of spaced-apart abutting pieces, with a gap formed between two adjacent abutting pieces. One end of the gap is an open end, and the other end is a closed end. The closed end is an arc-shaped notch formed on the main body.

12. The optical module according to claim 11, wherein: The abutting piece is in a convex arc shape and comprises a connecting end, an abutting end and a free end; the connecting end is connected to the main body, and the abutting end is located between the connecting end and the free end.

13. The optical module according to claim 11, wherein: The housing comprises a top surface, a first side surface, a bottom surface and a second side surface which are connected in sequence; a positioning column is provided on the top surface, and a buckle is provided on the bottom surface; The main body includes a first part, a second part and a third part connected in sequence; the first part is in contact with the first side surface, the second part is in contact with the top surface, and the third part is in contact with the second side surface; The main body further includes two buckle parts, which are connected to the first part and the third part respectively and are both away from the second part; The second part has a positioning hole, and the two buckle parts both have a clamping groove; the positioning hole is used for the positioning column to pass through; the clamping groove is used for the buckle to be buckled.

14. A pluggable optical module, characterized in that: It includes an optical device, a shell and an elastic structural member. The optical device is accommodated in the shell and is used to realize the conversion between optical signals and electrical signals. When the elastic structural member is installed on the shell, the main body of the elastic structural member is sleeved on the outer surface of the shell. Along the axial direction of the shell, one end of the main body is provided with an elastic part, and the elastic part protrudes in the direction away from the shell. The shell has a boss, and the boss is located on one side of the elastic structural member and away from the elastic part.

15. The optical module according to claim 14, wherein: The main body includes an elastic portion and a bent portion. Along the axial direction of the elastic structural component, the elastic portion and the bent portion are arranged opposite to each other. The elastic portion protrudes relative to the shell, and the bent portion bends relative to the main body toward the shell.

16. The optical module according to claim 15, wherein: The housing is provided with a groove at a position corresponding to the bent portion, and the bent portion is received in the groove.

17. The optical module according to claim 16, wherein: The bending portion is in the shape of an arc that bends toward the groove.

18. The optical module according to claim 16 or 17, wherein: The height difference between the boss and the groove is greater than the height difference between the main body and the groove; or, The height difference between the boss and the groove is equal to the height difference between the main body and the groove.

19. The optical module according to any one of claims 14 to 18, wherein: The optical module further includes a conductive rubber ring, which is used to be sleeved on the transceiver end of the optical device; An optical port is provided in the shell, and the optical port is used for inserting the transceiver end of the optical device; the conductive rubber ring is sealed between the transceiver end and the shell.

20. The optical module according to any one of claims 14 to 19, wherein: The elastic portion includes a plurality of spaced-apart abutting pieces, with a gap formed between two adjacent abutting pieces. One end of the gap is an open end, and the other end is a closed end. The closed end is an arc-shaped notch formed on the main body.

21. The optical module according to claim 20, wherein: The abutting piece is in a convex arc shape and comprises a connecting end, an abutting end and a free end; the connecting end is connected to the main body, and the abutting end is located between the connecting end and the free end.

22. The optical module according to claim 20, wherein: The housing comprises a top surface, a first side surface, a bottom surface and a second side surface which are connected in sequence; a positioning column is provided on the top surface, and a buckle is provided on the bottom surface; The main body includes a first part, a second part and a third part connected in sequence; the first part is in contact with the first side surface, the second part is in contact with the top surface, and the third part is in contact with the second side surface; The main body further includes two buckle parts, which are connected to the first part and the third part respectively and are both away from the second part; The second part has a positioning hole, and the two buckle parts both have a clamping groove; the positioning hole is used for the positioning column to pass through; the clamping groove is used for the buckle to be buckled.

23. A pluggable optical module, characterized in that: The optical module comprises a housing and an elastic structural member, wherein the housing is used to accommodate the functional components of the optical module, the elastic structural member comprises a plurality of connected parts, each adjacent part forms an angle with each other, the inner surface of each part is in contact with the housing, and the outer surface of the housing is provided with a groove corresponding to the edge of the elastic structure, the groove being used to accommodate the edge of the elastic structural member along the axial direction of the housing; The elastic structural member includes a plurality of abutting pieces, which are spaced apart from each other. Each abutting piece is in a convex arc shape. Along the axial direction of the shell, each abutting piece moves radially along the shell based on elastic deformation.

24. The optical module according to claim 23, wherein: The main body of the elastic structural member is sleeved on the outer surface of the shell, and a gap is formed between two adjacent supporting pieces. One end of the gap is an open end and the other end is a closed end. The closed end is an arc-shaped notch formed on the main body.

25. The optical module according to claim 24, wherein: The abutting piece includes a connecting end, an abutting end and a free end; the connecting end is connected to the main body, and the abutting end is located between the connecting end and the free end.

26. The optical module according to claim 24, wherein: The housing comprises a top surface, a first side surface, a bottom surface and a second side surface which are connected in sequence; a positioning column is provided on the top surface, and a buckle is provided on the bottom surface; The main body includes a first part, a second part and a third part connected in sequence; the first part is in contact with the first side surface, the second part is in contact with the top surface, and the third part is in contact with the second side surface; The main body further includes two buckle parts, which are connected to the first part and the third part respectively and are both away from the second part; The second part has a positioning hole, and the two buckle parts both have a clamping groove; the positioning hole is used for the positioning column to pass through; the clamping groove is used for the buckle to be buckled.

27. An optical communication device, characterized in that: include: A cage, and a light module according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the light module is configured to be inserted into the cage; After the optical module is inserted into the cage, the elastic structural member is clamped between the housing and the cage to shield electromagnetic interference.

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