Dust-proof optical module and assembly method thereof

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of optical module, particularly relates to a dustproof optical module and an assembling method thereof.The present application sets a dustproof part at the optical port end of the optical module, and the gap between the optical fiber in the dustproof part is made smaller by extruding the dustproof part, so as to fix the optical fiber in the gap and prevent dust from entering the optical port end of the optical module; on the other hand, a first resisting column is set on the upper cover of the optical module, and a second resisting column is set on the base, the first resisting column and the second resisting column respectively abut against the top surface and the bottom surface of the circuit board to prevent dust from entering the electrical port end of the optical module; in summary, the present application prevents dust from entering the optical port end and the electrical port end of the optical module, so as to avoid the pollution of the circuit board in the optical module caused by dust, the whole optical module has compact structure and simple layout, and is suitable for optical modules with various transmission speeds.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of optical module technology, and in particular to a dustproof optical module and its assembly method. Background Technology

[0002] An optical module consists of optoelectronic devices, functional circuits, and optical interfaces. The optoelectronic devices include both transmitting and receiving parts. An optical module includes a transmitting end and / or a receiving end. The transmitting end converts electrical signals into optical signals, which are then transmitted through optical fibers. The receiving end then converts the optical signals back into electrical signals.

[0003] Currently, when optical fibers are not plugged into optical modules, external dust can easily enter the module through the electrical and optical ports, corroding the internal circuit board and damaging the module.

[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 this invention is how to solve the problem that existing optical modules are easily contaminated by external dust, which leads to a decrease in the performance of the optical modules or even damage.

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

[0007] In a first aspect, a dustproof optical module is provided, including an upper cover 1 and a base 2, and also including at least one dustproof part 3, wherein a circuit board 4 is disposed in the inner cavity formed by the upper cover 1 and the base 2.

[0008] The dustproof part 3 is disposed at the optical port end of the optical module and between the upper cover 1 and the base 2; the dustproof part 3 is provided with a fiber passage gap 30, which is used to pass optical fiber. By squeezing the dustproof part 3, the fiber passage gap 30 is made smaller to fix the optical fiber and block dust from entering the optical port end of the optical module.

[0009] At the electrical port of the optical module, the upper cover 1 is provided with a first abutment 10, and the base 2 is provided with a second abutment 20; the first abutment 10 and the second abutment 20 respectively abut against the top surface and bottom surface of the circuit board 4 to prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module.

[0010] Preferably, the upper cover 1 is provided with a first mounting strip 11, and the base 2 is provided with a second mounting strip 21 corresponding to the first mounting strip 11. Dustproof adhesive strips are provided in the first mounting strip 11 and the second mounting strip 21.

[0011] Preferably, a first stop fitting 12 is provided on the upper cover 1 adjacent to the first abutment 10, and a second stop fitting 22 is provided on the base 2 adjacent to the second abutment 20;

[0012] When the upper cover 1 is fastened to the base 2, the first stop fitting 12 and the second stop fitting 22 are connected to further prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module.

[0013] Preferably, at least one first mounting groove 23 is provided on the base 2 near the optical port end of the optical module, and the dustproof part 3 includes an elastic shell 31, which is disposed in the first mounting groove 23;

[0014] The elastic outer shell 31 includes a first force-receiving part 310, a second force-receiving part 311, and a connecting part 312 connected in sequence; the fiber passage gap 30 is disposed between the first force-receiving part 310 and the second force-receiving part 311;

[0015] The side of the first force-bearing part 310 is in interference fit with the first inner wall 230 of the first mounting groove 23, and the side of the second force-bearing part 311 is in interference fit with the second inner wall 231 of the first mounting groove 23; the connecting part 312 is disposed on the bottom surface of the first mounting groove 23.

[0016] The first force-receiving part 310 and the second force-receiving part 311 are used to fix the optical fiber in the fiber passage gap 30 and prevent dust from entering the optical port end of the optical module under the compression of the first inner wall 230 and the second inner wall 231 of the first mounting groove 23.

[0017] Preferably, the dustproof part 3 further includes a rigid substrate 313 that matches the elastic shell 31, and the rigid substrate 313 is disposed inside the elastic shell 31.

[0018] Preferably, the dustproof part 3 further includes an abutment cover 32, on which a first abutment surface 320 and abutment surface 321 are provided. The side of the first force-bearing part 310 is configured as a first force-bearing surface 3100, and the side of the second force-bearing part 311 is configured as a second force-bearing surface 3110.

[0019] The elastic housing 31 is disposed in the first mounting groove 23, and the abutment cover 32 is disposed at the top of the elastic housing 31. When the upper cover 1 is fastened to the base 2, the upper cover 1 is used to press down the abutment cover 32, so that the first abutment surface 320 presses down the first force-bearing surface 3100 and the second abutment surface 321 presses down the second force-bearing surface 3110, so that the fiber optic gap 30 between the first force-bearing part 310 and the second force-bearing part 311 becomes smaller, so as to fix the optical fiber in the fiber optic gap 30 and prevent dust from entering the optical port of the optical module.

[0020] Preferably, a boss 24 is provided on the base 2 adjacent to the first mounting groove 23, and a protrusion 13 is provided on the upper cover 1 at the position corresponding to the boss 24. The boss 24 and the protrusion 13 abut against each other to further prevent dust from entering the optical port of the optical module.

[0021] Preferably, at least one second mounting groove 25 is provided on the base 2 near the optical port end of the optical module, and the dustproof part 3 further includes a dustproof baffle 33, and the fiber passage gap 30 is provided on the dustproof baffle 33; the dustproof baffle 33 is provided in the second mounting groove 25, and the fiber passage gap 30 on the dustproof baffle 33 is used to accommodate the optical fiber interface socket, and the optical fiber interface socket is used to connect with the optical fiber inside the optical module.

[0022] Preferably, a third mounting groove 26 is provided on the base 2 near the optical port end of the optical module. The dustproof part 3 also includes a first dustproof pad 34 and a second dustproof pad 35. The first dustproof pad 34 is disposed in the third mounting groove 26, and the second dustproof pad 35 is disposed on the first dustproof pad 34. The gap between the first dustproof pad 34 and the second dustproof pad 35 is the fiber optic gap 30.

[0023] When the upper cover 1 and the base 2 are fastened together, they are used to squeeze the first dustproof pad 34 and the second dustproof pad 35 to fix the optical fiber in the fiber optic gap 30 and prevent dust from entering the optical port of the optical module.

[0024] Secondly, a method for assembling a dustproof optical module is provided, for assembling the dustproof optical module as described in the first aspect, comprising:

[0025] The optical fiber inside the optical module is connected to the optical fiber interface through the fiber optic gap 30;

[0026] The dustproof part 3 is disposed in the base 2;

[0027] The upper cover 1 is fastened onto the base 2 to complete the assembly of the dustproof optical module;

[0028] Specifically, the fiber optic gap 30 is squeezed to prevent dust from entering the optical port of the optical module; and the first abutment 10 and the second abutment 20 abut against the top and bottom surfaces of the circuit board 4 respectively to prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module.

[0029] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows:

[0030] This invention provides a dustproof part 3 at the optical port of the optical module. By squeezing the dustproof part 3, the fiber optic gap 30 within it is reduced, thereby fixing the optical fiber in the gap 30 and preventing dust from entering the optical port of the optical module. Furthermore, a first abutment 10 is provided on the upper cover 1 of the optical module, and a second abutment 20 is provided on the base 2. These abutments abut against the top and bottom surfaces of the circuit board 4, respectively, to prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module. In summary, this invention prevents dust from entering both the optical port and electrical port of the optical module, thus avoiding contamination of the circuit board 4 inside the optical module. The entire optical module has a compact structure, simple layout, and is suitable for optical modules with various transmission speeds. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an optical communication system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a dustproof optical module provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a fiber optic gap provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first abutment and a second abutment provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first mounting strip provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second mounting strip provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a dustproof adhesive strip provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first stop fitting and a second stop fitting provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first stop fitting provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second stop fitting provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first mounting groove provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an elastic shell provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a specific structure of an elastic shell provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first inner wall and a second inner wall provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of an elastic shell undergoing excessive deformation according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rigid substrate provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of an abutment cover provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of an abutment cover provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of an installation structure for an abutment cover and an elastic outer shell provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of a boss structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of a specific structure of a boss provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of a protruding structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second mounting slot provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of a specific structure of a second mounting slot provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of a dustproof baffle provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of a specific structure of a dustproof baffle provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a third mounting slot provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first dustproof pad provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second dustproof pad provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 30 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of a first dustproof pad and a second dustproof pad provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 31 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for assembling a dustproof optical module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] In all the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same structure, wherein:

[0064] Top cover 1, first abutment 10, first mounting strip 11, first stop fitting 12, protrusion 13, base 2, second abutment 20, second mounting strip 21, second stop fitting 22, first mounting groove 23, first inner wall 230, second inner wall 231, boss 24, second mounting groove 25, third mounting groove 26, dustproof part 3, fiber optic gap 30, elastic shell 31, first force-bearing part 310, first force-bearing surface 3100, second force-bearing part 311, second force-bearing surface 3110, connecting part 312, rigid base 313, abutment cover 32, first abutment surface 320, second abutment surface 321, dustproof baffle 33, first dustproof pad 34, second dustproof pad 35, circuit board 4. Detailed Implementation

[0065] 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.

[0066] Unless the context otherwise requires, throughout the specification and claims, the term "comprising" is interpreted as openly inclusive, meaning "including, but not limited to." In the description of the specification, 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 this disclosure. 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 into embodiments or examples using the above terms for reasons such as order and position, it does not limit them to be incorporated in combination by a single embodiment or example.

[0067] 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 disclosure, 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 corresponding 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] Figure 1 This is a connection diagram of an optical communication system. (Example:) Figure 1 As shown, the optical communication system mainly includes an optical network terminal 50, a remote server 51, a local information processing device 52, an optical module 53, an optical fiber 54, and a network cable 55.

[0071] One end of the optical fiber 54 is connected to the remote server 51, and the other end is connected to the optical network terminal 50 via the optical module 53. The optical fiber itself can support long-distance signal transmission, such as signal transmission over several kilometers (6 to 8 kilometers). Theoretically, ultra-long-distance transmission can be achieved by using repeaters. Therefore, in typical optical communication systems, the distance between the remote server 51 and the optical network terminal 50 can usually reach several kilometers, tens of kilometers, or hundreds of kilometers.

[0072] One end of the network cable 55 is connected to the local information processing device 52, and the other end is connected to the optical network terminal 50. The local information processing device 52 can be any one or more of the following devices: router, optical network terminal, computer, mobile phone, tablet computer, and television, etc.

[0073] The physical distance between the remote server 51 and the optical network terminal 50 is greater than the physical distance between the local information processing device 52 and the optical network terminal 50. The connection between the local information processing device 52 and the remote server 51 is completed by optical fiber 54 and network cable 55; while the connection between optical fiber 54 and network cable 55 is completed by optical module 53 and optical network terminal 50.

[0074] The optical module 53 includes an optical port and an electrical port. The optical port is configured to connect to the optical fiber 54, thereby establishing a bidirectional optical signal connection between the optical module 53 and the optical fiber 54; the electrical port is configured to connect to the optical network terminal 50, thereby establishing a bidirectional electrical signal connection between the optical module 53 and the optical network terminal 50. The optical module 53 can convert between optical signals and electrical signals, thereby establishing a connection between the optical fiber 54 and the optical network terminal 50. For example, the optical signal from the optical fiber 54 is converted into an electrical signal by the optical module 53 and then input to the optical network terminal 50, and the electrical signal from the optical network terminal 50 is converted into an optical signal by the optical module 53 and then input to the optical fiber 54.

[0075] The optical network terminal 50 includes a generally rectangular housing, and a network cable interface 56 and an optical module interface 57 disposed on the housing. The optical module interface 57 is configured to connect to an optical module 53, thereby establishing a bidirectional electrical signal connection between the optical network terminal 50 and the optical module 53. The network cable interface 56 is configured to connect to a network cable 55, thereby establishing a bidirectional electrical signal connection between the optical network terminal 50 and the network cable 55. The optical module 53 and the network cable 55 are connected through the optical network terminal 50. For example, the optical network terminal 50 transmits electrical signals from the optical module 53 to the network cable 55, and vice versa. Therefore, the optical network terminal 50 acts as a host computer for the optical module 53, monitoring its operation. Besides the optical network terminal 50, the host computer for the optical module 53 may also include an optical line terminal (OLT), etc.

[0076] The remote server 51 establishes a bidirectional signal transmission channel with the local information processing equipment 52 through optical fiber 54, optical module 53, optical network terminal 50 and network cable 55.

[0077] The optical network terminal 50 also includes a PCB circuit board disposed within a housing, a cage (not shown) disposed on the surface of the PCB circuit board, an electrical connector disposed inside the cage, and a heat sink on the surface of the cage. The electrical connector is configured to connect to the electrical port of the optical module 53. The heat sink has protrusions such as fins to increase the heat dissipation area.

[0078] Optical module 53 is inserted into the cage of optical network terminal 50, where it is secured. Heat generated by optical module 53 is conducted to the cage and then dissipated through a heat sink. After insertion, the electrical port of optical module 53 connects to an electrical connector inside the cage, establishing a bidirectional electrical signal connection between optical module 53 and optical network terminal 50. Furthermore, the optical port of optical module 53 connects to optical fiber 54, establishing a bidirectional electrical signal connection between optical module 53 and optical fiber 54.

[0079] In some embodiments of the present invention, the optical module 53 includes a housing consisting of a top cover and a base, and a circuit board body. The top cover fits onto the base to form the housing having two openings. The outer contour of the housing is generally rectangular.

[0080] The direction of the line connecting the two openings can be consistent with or inconsistent with the length direction of the optical module 53. For example, one opening may be located at one end of the optical module 53, and the other opening may be located at the other end. Alternatively, one opening may be located at one end of the optical module 53, while the other opening may be located on the side of the optical module 53. One opening is an electrical port, from which the gold fingers of the circuit board extend and are inserted into a host computer (such as an optical network terminal 50); the other opening is an optical port, configured to connect to an external optical fiber 54, allowing the optical fiber 54 to connect to the interior of the optical module 53.

[0081] The assembly method, combining a top cover and a base, facilitates the installation of circuit boards and other components into the housing, while the top cover and base provide encapsulation and protection for these components. Furthermore, the assembly of circuit boards and other components facilitates the deployment of positioning, heat dissipation, and electromagnetic shielding components, promoting automated production.

[0082] In some embodiments, the top cover and base are generally made of metal to facilitate electromagnetic shielding and heat dissipation.

[0083] In some embodiments, the optical module 53 further includes an unlocking component located on the outer wall of its housing, the unlocking component being configured to establish a fixed connection between the optical module 53 and the host computer, or to release the fixed connection between the optical module 53 and the host computer.

[0084] For example, the unlocking components are located on the outer walls of the two lower side plates of the base, including a locking component that matches the cage of the host computer (e.g., the cage of the optical network terminal 50). When the optical module 53 is inserted into the cage of the host computer, the locking component of the unlocking components secures the optical module 53 in the cage of the host computer; when the unlocking components are pulled, the locking component of the unlocking components moves accordingly, thereby changing the connection relationship between the locking component and the host computer, so as to release the locking relationship between the optical module 53 and the host computer, thereby allowing the optical module 53 to be pulled out of the cage of the host computer.

[0085] A circuit board includes circuit traces, electronic components, and chips. The circuit traces connect the electronic components and chips according to the circuit design to achieve functions such as power supply, electrical signal transmission, and grounding. Electronic components may include, for example, capacitors, resistors, transistors, and metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs). Chips may include, for example, microcontroller units (MCUs), limiting amplifiers, clock and data recovery chips (CDRs), power management chips, and digital signal processing (DSP) chips.

[0086] 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; rigid circuit boards can also be inserted into electrical connectors in the host computer cage.

[0087] The circuit board also includes gold fingers formed on its end surfaces, each consisting of multiple independent pins. The circuit board is inserted into a cage, and the gold fingers connect to an electrical connector within the cage. The gold fingers can be located on only one side of the circuit board, or on both the top and bottom surfaces, to accommodate applications requiring a large number of pins. The gold fingers are configured to establish an electrical connection with a host computer for power supply, grounding, I2C signal transmission, and data signal transmission. Flexible circuit boards are also used in some optical modules. Flexible circuit boards are generally used in conjunction with rigid circuit boards as a supplement to rigid circuit boards.

[0088] This invention patent applies to QSFP+ (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable+, abbreviated as QSFP+) packages, QSFP28 packages, QSFP56 packages, QSFP112 packages, QSFP-DD (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable-Double Density, abbreviated as QSFP-DD) packages, OSFP (Octal Small Form-factor Pluggable, abbreviated as OSFP) packages, and OSFP-XD (Octal Small Form-Factor Pluggable-Extra Density, abbreviated as OSFP-XD) packages. Since optical module packaging is primarily designed to adapt to customized shell sizes for different scenarios, the optical path structure and / or circuit structure theories proposed in this invention, in the absence of explicit technical conflicts, should also be applicable to any future possible packaging standards, and therefore should be understood as falling within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0089] It should be noted that the above description is merely an illustrative example of the optical module's structure to provide a systematic introduction to optical modules and does not constitute a limitation on the optical module's structure. In practical applications, the structure of the optical module can be adapted to meet specific needs. For example, the form of the unlocking structure can be changed, the layout of the optical transmitting and receiving components can be altered, the structure of the module housing can be modified, and the form of the fiber optic connector can be changed.

[0090] Example 1:

[0091] When existing optical modules are not plugged in with optical fibers, external dust and impurities can easily enter through the optical port and electrical port, contaminating the internal circuit board 4 and affecting the stability of the optical module. To solve the above problem, in one embodiment, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, this embodiment proposes a dustproof optical module, including an upper cover 1 and a base 2, and at least one dustproof part 3. The inner cavity formed by the upper cover 1 and the base 2 is used to house a circuit board 4. The dustproof part 3 is disposed at the optical port of the optical module and between the upper cover 1 and the base 2. A fiber optic gap 30 is provided in the dustproof part 3, which is used for the passage of optical fibers. By squeezing the dustproof part 3, the fiber optic gap 30 is reduced to fix the optical fiber and prevent dust from entering the optical port of the optical module. Figure 4As shown, at the electrical port of the optical module, the upper cover 1 is provided with a first abutment 10, and the base 2 is provided with a second abutment 20; the first abutment 10 and the second abutment 20 respectively abut against the top surface and bottom surface of the circuit board 4 to prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module.

[0092] This solution primarily addresses two aspects of dust protection for optical modules: dust protection at the optical port and dust protection at the electrical port. To address the dust protection at the optical port, one or more dustproof sections 3 are provided between the upper cover 1 and the base 2 at the optical port of the optical module. The specific number of dustproof sections 3 can be determined based on the number of fiber optic interfaces. The dustproof sections 3 can be made of soft, elastic, and compressible materials (such as silicone, rubber, or specific elastic polymers).

[0093] The dustproof part 3 is designed with a fiber passage gap 30, the shape and size of which are designed to allow the optical fiber to pass through smoothly. When the optical fiber is inserted into the optical fiber interface and passes through the fiber passage gap 30, under the conditions of interference fit or external force, the dustproof part 3 is squeezed, thereby reducing the size of the fiber passage gap 30. The optical fiber itself exerts pressure on the inner wall of the fiber passage gap 30, while simultaneously squeezing the material of the dustproof part 3 (corresponding to the inner wall of the fiber passage gap 30). Under the elasticity of the material of the dustproof part 3, the optical fiber is tightly wrapped. This achieves two dual functions: the reduced fiber passage gap 30 generates a certain clamping force on the optical fiber, which helps to fix the optical fiber and reduce its shaking at the optical port end. More importantly, the tight wrapping of the optical fiber prevents dust and impurities from entering the interior of the optical module along the optical port end. The specific structure and installation method of the dustproof part 3 will be described in detail below.

[0094] The electrical port of the optical module refers to the area behind the corresponding gold finger or connector slot. A first abutment 10 and a second abutment 20 are designed there. When the top cover 1 and the base 2 are assembled together to form an inner cavity housing the circuit board 4, the end of the first abutment 10 presses downward against the top surface of the circuit board 4, and the end of the second abutment 20 presses upward against the bottom surface of the circuit board 4. These two sets of abutments form a physical barrier on the inner side of the electrical port (close to the circuit board 4), consisting of the abutments and the circuit board 4 itself. If dust or impurities attempt to enter the optical module from the electrical port (the gap in the gold finger slot), their path will be blocked by the first abutment 10, the circuit board 4, and the second abutment 20. The two abutments are in close contact with the surface of the circuit board 4, greatly compressing or even completely sealing the channel for dust to flow from the electrical port gap to the main area of ​​the internal circuit board 4. Furthermore, in order to prevent the abutment from damaging the circuit board 4 when it comes into contact with the circuit board 4, a top cover adhesive strip is provided at the end of the first abutment 10 and a base adhesive strip is provided at the end of the second abutment 20. By abutting the circuit board 4 with the top cover adhesive strip and the base adhesive strip, damage to the circuit board 4 can be avoided. At the same time, the dustproof effect can be further enhanced by abutting the circuit board 4 with the top cover adhesive strip and the base adhesive strip respectively.

[0095] In summary, this embodiment provides a dustproof part 3 at the optical port of the optical module and squeezes the dustproof part 3 to reduce the fiber optic gap 30 within it, thereby fixing the optical fiber in the fiber optic gap 30 and preventing dust from entering the optical port of the optical module. Furthermore, by providing a first abutment 10 on the upper cover 1 of the optical module and a second abutment 20 on the base 2, and by having the first abutment 10 and the second abutment 20 respectively abut against the top and bottom surfaces of the circuit board 4, dust is prevented from entering the electrical port of the optical module. In conclusion, this invention prevents dust from entering both the optical port and electrical port of the optical module, thus avoiding contamination of the circuit board 4 inside the optical module. The entire optical module has a compact structure, simple layout, and is suitable for optical modules of various transmission speeds.

[0096] When the upper cover 1 and the base 2 are fastened together, in addition to the optical port and electrical port of the optical module, dust and impurities can easily enter the side of the optical module. To prevent dust and impurities from entering the interior of the optical module from the side, in one embodiment, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, a first mounting strip 11 is provided on the upper cover 1, and a second mounting strip 21 corresponding to the first mounting strip 11 is provided on the base 2. Dustproof adhesive strips are provided in both the first mounting strip 11 and the second mounting strip 21. In one embodiment, the first mounting strip 11 may be provided only on the upper cover 1, or the second mounting strip 21 may be provided only on the base 2, and then a dustproof adhesive strip may be provided in either the first mounting strip 11 or the second mounting strip 21. The dustproof adhesive strip may be a standard part extruded from a mold and glued to the first mounting strip 11 or the second mounting strip 21, or it may be formed by directly applying adhesive to the first mounting strip 11 or the second mounting strip 21.

[0097] To further prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module, in one embodiment, such as Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, a first stop fitting 12 is provided on the upper cover 1 near the first abutment 10, and a second stop fitting 22 is provided on the base 2 near the second abutment 20; when the upper cover 1 and the base 2 are fastened together, the first stop fitting 12 and the second stop fitting 22 are connected to each other to further prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module.

[0098] Among them, reference Figure 8 The first stop fitting 12 can be a sliding groove, and the second stop fitting 22 can be a sliding strip corresponding to the sliding groove. Conversely, the second stop fitting 22 can be a sliding groove, and the first stop fitting 12 can be a sliding strip corresponding to the sliding groove. When the upper cover 1 and the base 2 are fastened together, the sliding strip is disposed in the sliding groove, further restricting external dust and impurities from entering the optical module.

[0099] The dustproof part 3 and related structures will be described in detail below. In this embodiment, three specific structures of the dustproof part 3 are proposed. The optical module including these three dustproof part 3 structures includes all the structures listed above (including electrical port dustproof and side dustproof, etc.).

[0100] First, the structure of the first type of dustproof part 3 and related structures will be introduced. In one embodiment, such as... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, at least one first mounting groove 23 is provided on the base 2 near the optical port end of the optical module. The dustproof part 3 includes an elastic shell 31, which is disposed in the first mounting groove 23.

[0101] The specific number of first mounting slots 23 depends on the number of fiber optic interfaces of the optical module. The fiber optic interfaces can be MPO (Multi Push On) connectors. In this embodiment, there are two first mounting slots 23, corresponding to two fiber optic interfaces on the optical module.

[0102] In one embodiment, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the elastic outer shell 31 includes a first force-receiving part 310, a second force-receiving part 311, and a connecting part 312 connected in sequence; the fiber passage gap 30 is disposed between the first force-receiving part 310 and the second force-receiving part 311; the side of the first force-receiving part 310 is in interference fit with the first inner wall 230 of the first mounting groove 23, and the side of the second force-receiving part 311 is in interference fit with the second inner wall 231 of the first mounting groove 23; the connecting part 312 is disposed on the bottom surface of the first mounting groove 23; the first force-receiving part 310 and the second force-receiving part 311 are used to fix the optical fiber in the fiber passage gap 30 and prevent dust from entering the optical port end of the optical module under the compression of the first inner wall 230 and the second inner wall 231 of the first mounting groove 23.

[0103] The first force-bearing part 310, the second force-bearing part 311, and the connecting part 312 of the elastic shell 31 are integrally formed. In order to improve the compression effect of the first force-bearing part 310 and the second force-bearing part 311 on the intermediate fiber passage gap 30, the length of the fiber passage gap 30 can be longer than the first force-bearing part 310 and the second force-bearing part 311. In one embodiment, a top cover adhesive strip is also provided at the place where the top of the top cover 1 abuts against the elastic shell 31. The top cover adhesive strip is interference-fitted with the elastic shell 31 to press the elastic shell 31 into the first mounting groove 23.

[0104] In one embodiment, the volume of the elastic shell 31 needs to be larger than that of the first mounting groove 23, and the depth of the first mounting groove 23 is lower than that of the elastic shell 31. This allows the elastic shell 31 to be interference-fitted into the first mounting groove 23. In this way, the first inner wall 230 and the second inner wall 231 of the first mounting groove 23 respectively press the first force-bearing part 310 and the second force-bearing part 311 inward. Under the elastic force of the elastic shell 31, the optical fiber in the fiber passage gap 30 is compressed, thereby achieving the functions of fixing the optical fiber and preventing dust.

[0105] In one embodiment, such as Figure 15 As shown, when the elastic outer shell 31 is in an interference fit with the first mounting groove 23, the first force-bearing part 310 and the second force-bearing part 311 are prone to excessively compressing the optical fiber in the fiber passage gap 30, causing optical fiber misalignment. To solve the above problem, in one embodiment, as shown... Figure 16 As shown, the dustproof part 3 also includes a rigid substrate 313 that matches the elastic shell 31, and the rigid substrate 313 is disposed inside the elastic shell 31. The shape of the rigid substrate 313 matches the elastic shell 31, which can prevent excessive deformation of the elastic shell 31 when it is pressed into the first mounting groove 23, which would cause excessive stress on the optical fiber in the fiber passage gap 30, thereby causing the optical fiber to misalign or break.

[0106] Furthermore, besides the aforementioned interference fit of the elastic housing 31 into the first mounting groove 23, the elastic housing 31 can be modified to eliminate the need for an interference fit between the elastic housing 31 and the first mounting groove 23. In one embodiment, such as... Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the dustproof part 3 also includes an abutment cover 32, on which a first abutment surface 320 and a second abutment surface 321 are provided. The side of the first force-bearing part 310 is set as the first force-bearing surface 3100, and the side of the second force-bearing part 311 is set as the second force-bearing surface 3110. The elastic shell 31 is disposed in the first mounting groove 23, and the abutment cover 32 is disposed at the top of the elastic shell 31. When the upper cover 1 is fastened to the base 2, the upper cover 1 is used to press down the abutment cover 32, so that the first abutment surface 320 presses down the first force-bearing surface 3100 and the second abutment surface 321 presses down the second force-bearing surface 3110, so that the fiber optic gap 30 between the first force-bearing part 310 and the second force-bearing part 311 becomes smaller, so as to fix the optical fiber in the fiber optic gap 30 and block dust from entering the optical port of the optical module.

[0107] In this case, the elastic shell 31 does not need to be interference-fitted with the first mounting groove 23. In this structure of the elastic shell 31, the length of the fiber passage gap 30 needs to be less than the length of the right angle side corresponding to the first force-bearing surface 3100 and the second force-bearing surface 3110, so as to achieve greater deformation of the fiber passage gap 30 with less pressure.

[0108] In one embodiment, the material used to make the abutment cover 32 can be more rigid than the material used to make the elastic shell 31. This results in greater deformation of the first force-bearing portion 310 and the second force-bearing portion 311 on the elastic shell 31 when the abutment cover 32 is pressed down, and less deformation of the first abutment surface 320 and the second abutment surface 321 on the abutment cover 32, which can better fix the optical fiber in the fiber passage gap 30.

[0109] In one embodiment, the first abutting surface 320 and the first force-bearing surface 3100 are interference-fitted, and the second abutting surface 321 and the second force-bearing surface 3110 are interference-fitted. That is, when the first abutting surface 320 and the first force-bearing surface 3100 are fully in contact, and the second abutting surface 321 and the second force-bearing surface 3110 are fully in contact, the first force-bearing part 310 and the second force-bearing part 311 will be in an inwardly pressing shape to compress the fiber passage gap 30, thereby achieving the effect of fixing the optical fiber and preventing dust. The elastic outer shell 31 also includes a rigid substrate 313 inside to avoid excessive stress on the optical fiber in the fiber passage gap 30, which could lead to misalignment or breakage of the optical fiber.

[0110] In summary, in the scheme of directly interfering the elastic shell 31 into the first mounting groove 23, the optical fiber needs to be placed into the fiber passage gap 30 first. At this time, the position of the optical fiber will change with the operator's actions. For example, when the optical fiber is initially placed into the fiber passage gap 30, the optical fiber is in the middle of the fiber passage gap 30. However, as the elastic shell 31 is interfering and pressed into the first mounting groove 23, the position of the optical fiber will change with the pressing operation. Moreover, after the elastic shell 31 has been pressed into the first mounting groove 23, the position of the optical fiber cannot be adjusted. Therefore, the above scheme has certain limitations, that is, the position of the optical fiber cannot be accurately determined.

[0111] In the improvement to the above embodiment, by using another elastic shell 31 (such as...) Figure 18 As shown, the optical fiber is directly installed in the first mounting slot 23 without interference fitting. The elastic shell 31 can be installed in the first mounting slot 23 first, and then the optical fiber is placed in the fiber passage gap 30. At this time, the position of the optical fiber can be controlled. Then, the abutment cover 32 is installed on the elastic shell 31, and then the upper cover 1 is used to press the abutment cover 32 to fix the position of the optical fiber in the specified position in the fiber passage gap 30. In this scheme, the position of the optical fiber can be determined.

[0112] Furthermore, to further prevent dust or impurities from entering the optical port of the optical module, in one embodiment, such as... Figure 20 , Figure 21 and Figure 22 As shown, a boss 24 is provided on the base 2 near the first mounting groove 23, and a protrusion 13 is provided on the upper cover 1 at the position corresponding to the boss 24. The boss 24 and the protrusion 13 abut against each other to further prevent dust from entering the optical port of the optical module.

[0113] Next, the structure of the second type of dustproof part 3 and related structures will be described. In one embodiment, such as... Figure 23 , Figure 24 , Figure 25 as well as Figure 26 As shown, at least one second mounting slot 25 is provided on the base 2 near the optical port end of the optical module. The dustproof part 3 also includes a dustproof baffle 33. The fiber optic gap 30 is provided on the dustproof baffle 33. The dustproof baffle 33 is provided in the second mounting slot 25. The fiber optic gap 30 on the dustproof baffle 33 is used to accommodate the fiber optic interface socket. The fiber optic interface socket is used to connect with the optical fiber inside the optical module.

[0114] The dustproof baffle 33 is also made of elastic material. Unlike the fiber optic gap 30 on the aforementioned elastic shell 31, the fiber optic gap 30 on the dustproof baffle 33 is larger and can accommodate a fiber optic interface socket. In the aforementioned first dustproof part 3 scheme, the elastic shell 31 is located at the rear end of the fiber optic interface socket and is suitable for a dual fiber optic interface socket scheme. Here, the dustproof baffle 33 directly accommodates the fiber optic interface socket and is suitable for a single fiber optic interface socket scheme.

[0115] Reference Figure 26 The dustproof baffle 33 is U-shaped. The fiber optic interface socket is positioned at the opening of the dustproof baffle 33 (corresponding to the fiber optic gap 30 in this design). After the dustproof baffle 33 is placed in the second mounting groove 25, the upper cover 1 is placed on the base 2. The upper cover 1 exerts downward pressure on the dustproof baffle 33 to fix the fiber optic interface socket. Simultaneously, the fiber optic interface socket and the fiber optic gap 30 (i.e., the corresponding opening) on ​​the dustproof baffle 33 are press-fitted to prevent external dust from passing between the fiber optic gap 30 and the fiber optic interface socket. Furthermore, the areas on the dustproof baffle 33 other than the opening separate the outside world from the interior of the optical module, achieving a better dustproof effect at the optical port.

[0116] Next, we will introduce the structure of the third type of dustproof part 3 and related structures. In one embodiment, such as... Figure 27 , Figure 28 as well as Figure 29 As shown, a third mounting groove 26 is provided on the base 2 near the optical port end of the optical module. The dustproof part 3 also includes a first dustproof pad 34 and a second dustproof pad 35. The first dustproof pad 34 is disposed in the third mounting groove 26, and the second dustproof pad 35 is disposed on the first dustproof pad 34. The gap between the first dustproof pad 34 and the second dustproof pad 35 is the fiber passage gap 30. When the upper cover 1 and the base 2 are fastened together, they are used to squeeze the first dustproof pad 34 and the second dustproof pad 35 to fix the optical fiber in the fiber passage gap 30 and prevent dust from entering the optical port end of the optical module.

[0117] In the third type of dustproof section 3, the fiber optic gap 30 refers to the gap between the first dustproof pad 34 and the second dustproof pad 35. The first dustproof pad 34 and the second dustproof pad 35 are separate, independent structures, both made of elastic material. Furthermore, to prevent the stress generated when the first dustproof pad 34 and the second dustproof pad 35 are squeezed from affecting the optical fiber in the fiber optic gap 30, such as... Figure 30 As shown, both the first dustproof pad 34 and the second dustproof pad 35 are hollow structures. This is to prevent the hollow structure from eliminating the stress caused by the compression when the two dustproof pads are squeezed together. This ensures that the optical fiber in the fiber optic gap 30 is fixed and prevents external dust from entering the optical port of the optical module, while the optical fiber in the fiber optic gap 30 is not damaged by the force generated by the compression.

[0118] Furthermore, to improve the fixation effect of the two dustproof pads on the optical fiber in the intermediate fiber optic gap 30, refer to... Figure 30 The first dustproof pad 34 and the second dustproof pad 35 are staggered by a preset distance, so that the optical fiber in the middle fiber passage gap 30 is better fixed when the two dustproof pads are squeezed together.

[0119] In one embodiment, in order to further ensure that the components on the internal circuit board 4 are not contaminated by external dust or impurities, a dust cover is also provided on the circuit board 4. The dust cover is used to cover the component mounting area on the circuit board 4, further ensuring that the circuit board 4 is not contaminated.

[0120] In summary, the optical modules corresponding to the three types of dustproof parts 3 can reuse all structures except for the dustproof part 3 and the structures related to the dustproof part 3, and will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0121] Example 2:

[0122] This embodiment proposes a method for assembling a dustproof optical module. In one embodiment, such as... Figure 31 As shown, the assembly method includes:

[0123] Step 101: Connect the optical fiber inside the optical module to the optical fiber interface through the fiber optic gap 30.

[0124] Step 102: Install the dustproof part 3 in the base 2.

[0125] Step 103: Attach the upper cover 1 to the base 2 to complete the assembly of the dustproof optical module.

[0126] In this embodiment, dust is prevented from entering the optical port of the optical module by compressing the fiber optic gap 30; and dust is prevented from entering the electrical port of the optical module by the first abutment 10 and the second abutment 20 abutting against the top and bottom surfaces of the circuit board 4, respectively. The aforementioned method only describes the assembly process of the dustproof optical module's casing; the installation methods of the circuit board 4 and pull rings, etc., are not described in detail in this embodiment. For the specific structure of the dustproof optical module, please refer to Embodiment 1, which will not be repeated in this embodiment.

[0127] This embodiment provides a dustproof part 3 at the optical port of the optical module. By squeezing the dustproof part 3, the fiber optic gap 30 in the dustproof part 3 is reduced, thereby fixing the optical fiber in the fiber optic gap 30 and preventing dust from entering the optical port of the optical module. A first abutment 10 is provided on the upper cover 1 of the optical module, and a second abutment 20 is provided on the base 2. The first abutment 10 and the second abutment 20 abut against the top and bottom surfaces of the circuit board 4, respectively, to prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module. In summary, this invention prevents dust from entering the optical port and electrical port of the optical module, thus avoiding dust contamination of the circuit board 4 inside the optical module. The entire optical module has a compact structure, simple layout, and is suitable for optical modules with various transmission speeds.

[0128] 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. A dustproof optical module, comprising a top cover (1) and a base (2), characterized in that, It also includes at least one dustproof part (3), and the inner cavity formed by the upper cover (1) and the base (2) is used to set the circuit board (4); The dustproof part (3) is disposed at the optical port end of the optical module and between the upper cover (1) and the base (2); the dustproof part (3) is provided with a fiber passage gap (30), which is used to pass optical fiber. By squeezing the dustproof part (3), the fiber passage gap (30) is made smaller, so as to fix the optical fiber and block dust from entering the optical port end of the optical module; At the electrical port of the optical module, the top cover (1) is provided with a first abutment (10), and the base (2) is provided with a second abutment (20); the first abutment (10) and the second abutment (20) respectively abut against the top and bottom surfaces of the circuit board (4) to prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module.

2. The dustproof optical module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top cover (1) is provided with a first mounting strip (11), and the base (2) is provided with a second mounting strip (21) corresponding to the first mounting strip (11). Dustproof adhesive strips are provided in the first mounting strip (11) and the second mounting strip (21).

3. The dustproof optical module according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first stop fitting (12) is provided on the upper cover (1) near the first abutment (10), and a second stop fitting (22) is provided on the base (2) near the second abutment (20). When the top cover (1) is fastened to the base (2), the first stop fitting (12) is connected to the second stop fitting (22) to further prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module.

4. The dustproof optical module according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one first mounting groove (23) is provided on the base (2) near the optical port end of the optical module. The dustproof part (3) includes an elastic shell (31) which is disposed in the first mounting groove (23). The elastic outer shell (31) includes a first force-receiving part (310), a second force-receiving part (311), and a connecting part (312) connected in sequence; the fiber optic gap (30) is disposed between the first force-receiving part (310) and the second force-receiving part (311); The side of the first force-bearing part (310) is in interference fit with the first inner wall (230) of the first mounting groove (23), and the side of the second force-bearing part (311) is in interference fit with the second inner wall (231) of the first mounting groove (23); the connecting part (312) is provided on the bottom surface of the first mounting groove (23); The first force-bearing part (310) and the second force-bearing part (311) are used to fix the optical fiber in the fiber passage gap (30) and block dust from entering the optical port end of the optical module under the compression of the first inner wall (230) and the second inner wall (231) of the first mounting groove (23).

5. The dustproof optical module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dustproof part (3) also includes a rigid substrate (313) that matches the elastic shell (31), the rigid substrate (313) being disposed inside the elastic shell (31).

6. The dustproof optical module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dustproof part (3) also includes an abutment cover (32), on which a first abutment surface (320) and a second abutment surface (321) are provided. The side of the first force-bearing part (310) is configured as a first force-bearing surface (3100), and the side of the second force-bearing part (311) is configured as a second force-bearing surface (3110). The elastic shell (31) is disposed in the first mounting groove (23), and the abutment cover (32) is disposed at the top of the elastic shell (31). When the upper cover (1) is fastened to the base (2), the upper cover (1) is used to press down the abutment cover (32) so that the first abutment surface (320) presses down the first force-bearing surface (3100) and the second abutment surface (321) presses down the second force-bearing surface (3110) so that the fiber gap (30) between the first force-bearing part (310) and the second force-bearing part (311) becomes smaller, so as to fix the optical fiber in the fiber gap (30) and block dust from entering the optical port of the optical module.

7. The dustproof optical module according to claim 4, characterized in that, A boss (24) is provided on the base (2) near the first mounting groove (23), and a protrusion (13) is provided on the upper cover (1) at the position corresponding to the boss (24). The boss (24) and the protrusion (13) abut against each other to further prevent dust from entering the optical port of the optical module.

8. The dustproof optical module according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one second mounting slot (25) is provided on the base (2) near the optical port end of the optical module. The dustproof part (3) also includes a dustproof baffle (33). The fiber optic gap (30) is provided on the dustproof baffle (33). The dustproof baffle (33) is provided in the second mounting slot (25). The fiber optic gap (30) on the dustproof baffle (33) is used to accommodate the fiber optic interface socket. The fiber optic interface socket is used to connect with the optical fiber inside the optical module.

9. The dustproof optical module according to claim 1, characterized in that, A third mounting groove (26) is provided on the base (2) near the optical port end of the optical module. The dustproof part (3) also includes a first dustproof pad (34) and a second dustproof pad (35). The first dustproof pad (34) is disposed in the third mounting groove (26), and the second dustproof pad (35) is disposed on the first dustproof pad (34). The gap between the first dustproof pad (34) and the second dustproof pad (35) is the fiber optic gap (30). When the top cover (1) and the base (2) are fastened together, they are used to squeeze the first dustproof pad (34) and the second dustproof pad (35) to fix the optical fiber in the fiber optic gap (30) and block dust from entering the optical port of the optical module.

10. A method for assembling a dustproof optical module, characterized in that, For assembling the dustproof optical module as described in any one of claims 1-9, comprising: The optical fiber inside the optical module is connected to the optical fiber interface through the fiber optic gap (30); The dustproof part (3) is disposed in the base (2); The upper cover (1) is fastened onto the base (2) to complete the assembly of the dustproof optical module; In this process, the fiber optic gap (30) is squeezed to prevent dust from entering the optical port of the optical module; and the first abutment (10) and the second abutment (20) abut against the top and bottom surfaces of the circuit board (4) respectively to prevent dust from entering the electrical port of the optical module.

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