Pluggable optical connector

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of optical communication, in particular to a pluggable optical connector. The pluggable connector comprises a packaging substrate, a socket module and a plug module, the socket module is connected with the first end of the packaging substrate, and the second end of the plug module is detachably connected with the first end of the socket module; the packaging substrate comprises an optical chip, the socket module comprises a light guide array, and the plug module comprises a grating coupling array; the optical chip is optically interconnected with the light guide array, and the grating coupling array is optically interconnected with the light guide array. According to the optical connector, the light guide array and the grating coupling array are respectively arranged in different modules of the optical connector, and then the packaging substrate, the socket module and the plug module are aligned, so that optical interconnection of the light guide array and the grating coupling array can be finally realized, and therefore, efficient transmission of optical signals can be realized; and the socket module and the plug module are detachably connected, so that the maintenance performance and the reliability of the optical connector are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of optical communication technology, and more particularly to a pluggable optical connector. Background Technology

[0002] Silicon photonics chips for communication are currently developing towards higher speeds and higher integration. With the increase in speed, the single-channel speed has increased from 100G to 200G, and the distance of signal transmission on the circuit board is getting shorter and shorter. In order to ensure the quality of signal transmission, this requires that the distance between the optical engine and the main chip be as short as possible.

[0003] Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) refers to integrating optical engines with switching or computing chips on the same substrate, which shortens electrical interconnection distance, significantly reduces power consumption and latency, and improves bandwidth density and signal integrity. However, how to efficiently and reliably connect external optical fibers to the optical chips inside the CPO package has become a key challenge affecting its reliability and maintainability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides an embodiment of a pluggable optical connector.

[0005] The technical solution of this disclosure is implemented as follows: This disclosure provides a pluggable optical connector, including a packaging substrate, a socket module and a plug module; The socket module is connected to the first end of the packaging substrate, and the second end of the plug module is detachably connected to the first end of the socket module; The packaging substrate includes an optical chip, the socket module includes a light guide array, and the plug module includes a grating coupling array; the optical chip is optically interconnected with the light guide array, and the grating coupling array is optically interconnected with the light guide array.

[0006] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the socket module includes a first external structure, the interior of which is fixedly connected to the light guide array, and the first external structure is detachably connected to the socket module. The detachable connection is made via at least one or more of the following modules: (1) Sliding connection module; (2) Guide pin embedding module; (3) Locking mechanism module.

[0007] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the plug module further includes a second external structure and a ferrule structure; The second external structure is connected to the first external structure, and the ferrule structure is sleeved inside the second external structure; The sliding connection module includes an internal groove and a first protrusion; The internal groove extends through the interior of the first external structure, and the first protrusion is disposed at both ends of the second external structure along a third direction and is adapted to the internal groove; The guide pin embedding module includes a first guide hole and a first guide pin; The first guide hole is disposed on one side of the internal groove, and the first guide pin is disposed along the second direction at the second end of the insert structure and is adapted to the first guide hole.

[0008] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the locking mechanism module includes an elastic snap-fit ​​component and an external groove; The elastic snap-fit ​​component is disposed in the outer groove, and the outer groove communicates with the inner groove; The elastic snap-fit ​​assembly snaps into the ferrule structure.

[0009] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the elastic snap-fit ​​assembly includes a press-fit member, a pin, a first elastic member, and a base; The base is fixed to the side of the external groove near the light guide array, and the pressing latch is lever-connected to the base via the pin; the first elastic element is disposed on the side of the pressing latch near the pressing end, and one end is fixedly connected to the base, and the other end is fixedly connected to the pressing latch; the pressing latch is adapted to the insert structure.

[0010] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the locking mechanism module further includes a second elastic element and an auxiliary block; The auxiliary block is fixed on both sides of the insert structure along the third direction, and one end of the second elastic member is fixedly connected to the auxiliary block along the second direction, while the other end is connected to the second external structure.

[0011] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the locking mechanism module further includes a limiting groove; The limiting groove is disposed on both sides of the second end of the insert structure along a third direction, and the limiting groove is adapted to the pressing snap-fit ​​component.

[0012] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the first external structure includes a second groove and a positioning pin; The second groove is disposed on one side of the light guide array along the first direction, and the positioning pin is disposed inside the second groove along the first direction; The first end of the packaging substrate is provided with a positioning hole; the second groove fits with the first end of the packaging substrate, and the positioning pin is adapted to the positioning hole.

[0013] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the packaging substrate further includes a packaging substrate, a composite lens group, and an optical bridge; The optical chip, the composite lens group, and the optical bridge are sequentially disposed on the first surface of the packaging substrate along the second direction, and the optical chip is optically interconnected with the optical bridge through the composite lens group; The optical bridge is optically interconnected with the socket module via a light guide array, thereby enabling the optical chip to be optically interconnected with the light guide array.

[0014] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the plug module further includes a third groove, a second protrusion, a third protrusion, and a fourth protrusion; The third groove is disposed on the inner surface of the second external structure along the first direction, and the second protrusion is disposed inside the third groove along the first direction; The third protrusion and the fourth protrusion are sequentially disposed on the surface of the insert structure along the second direction, and the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion are adapted to the third groove; When the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion are inserted into the third groove, the second protrusion is located between the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion.

[0015] This disclosure provides an optical connector, including a socket module, a plug module, and a packaging substrate. The socket module includes a first external structure and a light guide array, and the plug module includes a second external structure and a ferrule structure. An optical chip on the packaging substrate is optically connected to the light guide array, and the light guide array is optically connected to a grating coupling array. A positioning hole is provided at the first end of the packaging substrate, and a positioning pin adapted to the positioning hole is provided on the first external structure. Alignment between the packaging substrate and the socket structure can be achieved through the adaptation of the positioning hole and the positioning pin. The plug module and the socket module are initially connected through a sliding connection module, then precisely docked through a guide pin and guide hole module, and finally detachably connected through a locking mechanism module. The optical connector provided by this disclosure does not require complex assembly equipment. It solves the problems of insufficient docking accuracy and unstable connection of optical connectors by utilizing the cooperation of positioning holes and positioning pins and a two-stage guide structure, achieving high-precision optical interconnection. Furthermore, its core structure adopts conventional processing technology and adaptation methods in the art, and each detachable connection module can be flexibly fine-tuned according to actual needs without complex process control, reducing assembly and maintenance difficulty and improving product adaptability and reliability. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a top view of the connector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 2 This is an exploded bottom view of the connector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the elastic snap-fit ​​assembly provided in the embodiments of this disclosure; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the second groove structure provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 5 This is a bottom view schematic diagram of the connector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the ferrule structure and the second external structure provided in the embodiments of this disclosure; Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the plug module provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 8 These are schematic diagrams of the optical connector from a bottom view and a side view according to embodiments of this disclosure; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a frontal top view provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 10 This is a side view schematic diagram of the optical connector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the connection of the flexible snap-fit ​​assembly provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0017] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: Detailed Implementation

[0018] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the disclosure will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The described embodiments should not be regarded as limitations on this disclosure. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0019] It is understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the disclosure. It should also be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the disclosure are shown in the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure only and is not intended to limit the disclosure. In the following description, references to "some embodiments" describe a subset of all possible embodiments; however, it is understood that "some embodiments" may be the same subset or different subsets of all possible embodiments and may be combined with each other without conflict. It should be noted that the terms "first, second, third, fourth" used in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely to distinguish similar objects and do not represent a specific ordering of objects. It is understood that "first, second, third, fourth" may be interchanged in a specific order or sequence where permitted, so that the embodiments of this disclosure described herein can be implemented in an order other than that illustrated or described herein.

[0020] In optoelectronic co-packaging structures, the coupling between the optical chip and the fiber optic module is a crucial step. Currently, the industry commonly employs two techniques: edge coupling and surface coupling. These techniques use UV-curing adhesives and other fixing processes to permanently attach the fiber optic array to the surface of the grating coupler or edge coupler of the silicon photonic chip. This type of coupling method, with its robust connection performance and low signal loss, meets the fundamental application requirements for efficient optical signal transmission and is the mainstream technical approach in the current field of optical chip-fiber optic module coupling.

[0021] However, in the mass production and practical engineering applications of CPO packaging, this coupling method is prone to constraints in mass production and maintainability. Specifically, the process of directly coupling optical fiber modules on the surface of optical chips is extremely precise and requires high operational accuracy, resulting in greater operational difficulty and lower product yield in actual production. This makes it difficult to meet the core requirements of large-scale mass production for process stability and production efficiency. More importantly, after the optoelectronic module has completed the coupling operation, it needs to carry the fragile optical fiber pigtail for the board reflow process. The suspended optical fiber lacks effective protection and is very susceptible to bending, breakage, and other damage during operation. Since this coupling method is a permanent fixed connection, once the optical fiber is damaged, rework and repair operations cannot be performed.

[0022] Of particular concern is that the non-removable coupling between the fiber optic module and the optical chip further amplifies the adverse effects of fiber damage: the breakage of a single fiber will directly lead to the scrapping of the entire optoelectronic module, which not only significantly increases the maintenance cost of the product, but also causes prolonged equipment downtime due to the cumbersome module replacement process, affecting the stable operation of the terminal equipment and failing to meet the requirements of industrial-grade application scenarios for equipment reliability and ease of maintenance.

[0023] To address the maintainability issues inherent in the aforementioned coupling methods, the industry has proposed a pluggable optical module (OPM) solution. This solution utilizes multi-fiber push-on (MPO) connectors or standard small square connectors (LC) to extend optical fibers from the CPO front panel, aiming to facilitate the disassembly and maintenance of the fiber module through a pluggable structure. However, these traditional connectors are inherently large. In the highly integrated design of CPO optical engines, their size significantly restricts the increase in port density, making it difficult to meet the space constraints of CPO optical engines and thus failing to balance maintainability with high-density integration.

[0024] In summary, existing CPO optical engine optical connection technologies have significant technical shortcomings. While traditional coupling methods can ensure connection stability and low loss characteristics, they sacrifice product maintainability and are difficult to mass-produce. Although pluggable solutions effectively improve maintenance convenience, they cannot meet the high-density integration requirements of CPO optical engines. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a new pluggable optical connection solution specifically designed for CPO optical engines that can simultaneously meet the requirements of ultra-high density, reliable blind mating, and convenient maintenance.

[0025] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] In some embodiments of this disclosure, such as Figures 1-2 As shown, a pluggable optical connector is provided, including an encapsulation substrate 1, a socket module 2, and a plug module 3; the socket module 2 is connected to a first end of the encapsulation substrate 1, and the second end of the plug module 3 is detachably connected to the first end of the socket module 2. The encapsulation substrate 1, socket module 2, and plug module 3 are core components, and none of them can be omitted. The relative connection relationship between these components is fundamental to achieving pluggable optical signal transmission. Specifically, socket module 2 must be connected to the first end of encapsulation substrate 1, and the second end of plug module 3 must be detachably connected to the first end of socket module 2. Even if the shape and size of each component are slightly adjusted for adaptation, such as if encapsulation substrate 1 is a rectangle, circle, or other conventionally compatible shape, as long as the aforementioned relative connection relationship is maintained, it still falls within the protection scope of this technical solution. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first end is shown as the right end, and the second end as the left end. In actual implementation, the first end can be any end, and the second end is the end corresponding to the first end. This is not specifically limited here and should not constitute a limitation on this application.

[0027] Optionally, the socket module 2 is pre-mounted onto the packaging substrate 1 with high precision using eutectic bonding or reflow-resistant adhesive.

[0028] Furthermore, the packaging substrate 1 includes an optical chip 11, the socket module 2 includes a light guide array 21, and the plug module 3 includes a grating coupling array 31; the optical chip 11 is optically interconnected with the light guide array 21, and the grating coupling array 31 is optically interconnected with the light guide array 21.

[0029] The above description of technical features is merely an illustrative example. In actual applications, the materials and specific structures of each component can be adapted to the specific application scenario. For example, the packaging substrate 1 may use conventional substrate materials such as ceramics or PCBs, and the light guide array 21 may use conventional light guide materials such as glass or polymers. As long as the core technical feature of this technical solution is not changed—that is, "the packaging substrate 1, the socket module 2, and the plug module 3 are connected in a corresponding manner, and the optical chip 11 and the light guide array 21, and the grating coupling array 31 and the light guide array 21 are optically interconnected respectively"—these all fall within the protection scope of this technical solution.

[0030] It should be understood that the specific types of the light guide array 21 and the grating coupling array 31 are all conventional adaptations of this technical solution. The following detailed explanation uses specific examples: The light guide array 21 can be a high-precision lens array, made of quartz material, composed of several arrayed micro-convex lenses. The focal length of each convex lens precisely matches the light output parameters of the optical chip 11. The input end of the lens array is aligned one-to-one with the light source of the optical chip 11 on the packaging substrate 1, and the lens surface is coated with an anti-reflection and anti-reflection coating, which can collimate the divergent light signal emitted by the optical chip 11 into parallel light, reducing the loss of the light signal during transmission. The corresponding grating coupling array 31 is a combination structure of a microlens array 311 and a high-density multi-core fiber array 312. The microlens array 311 is correspondingly set with the output end of the high-precision lens array (light guide array 21), and each microlens of the microlens array 311... Aligning with the convex lenses of the high-precision lens array one-to-one, the parallel light signal output from the light guide array 21 is focused and precisely coupled to the high-density multi-core fiber array 312. The high-density multi-core fiber array 312 is made of low-loss silica fiber and contains several closely arranged fiber cores. Each fiber core corresponds to a microlens in the microlens array 311, enabling independent transmission of optical signals. In this example, the light guide array 21 uses a high-precision lens array, and the grating coupling array 31 uses a combination of the microlens array 311 and the high-density multi-core fiber array 312. This achieves optical interconnection between the light guide array 21 and the optical chip 11, and optical interconnection between the grating coupling array 31 and the light guide array 21, enabling efficient transmission of optical signals. By using a microlens array and miniaturized interface design, the size of a single module can be smaller than that of a traditional quad small form-factor pluggable double density (QSFP-DD) package, while providing 32-core or even higher density fiber connections, perfectly matching the space constraints of the CPO optical engine. Therefore, it still falls within the protection scope of this technical solution.

[0031] In the embodiments disclosed herein, such as Figure 2As shown, the socket module 2 includes a first external structure 22, which is fixedly connected to the light guide array 21 along its interior, and the first external structure 22 is detachably connected to the socket module 2. The detachable connection is made via at least one or more of the following modules: (1) Sliding connection module 41; (2) Guide pin embedding module 42; (3) Locking mechanism module 43.

[0032] It should be noted that the specific structure, size, and quantity of the above three detachable connection modules can be adaptively adjusted according to the specifications of the first external structure 22, the size of the light guide array 21, and actual usage requirements. For example, the number of positioning guide pins can be set to 2 to 4 according to the size of the first external structure 22, the length of the sliding rail can be adapted to the size of the first external structure 22, and the specific form of the locking mechanism can be adapted to different usage scenarios. As long as the core functions of "sliding connection, guide pin embedding, and locking fixation" are not changed, they do not constitute a limitation of the present invention.

[0033] Furthermore, the three detachable connection modules mentioned above can be used individually or in combination. For example, the sliding connection module 41 can be combined with the locking mechanism module 43. First, the first external structure 22 is connected via a sliding block, and then the locking mechanism is used to lock and fix it, which facilitates docking and positioning while ensuring a stable connection. The guide pin embedding module 42 can be combined with the sliding connection module 41. The connection is roughly aligned via a primary groove and protrusion, and then finely aligned via a guide pin, improving docking accuracy and ease of operation. Regardless of whether they are used individually or in combination, as long as they achieve a detachable connection between the first external structure 22 and the socket module 2, and the connection method belongs to one or more of the three modules mentioned above, they do not deviate from the core limitations of this technical solution and thus fall within the protection scope of this technical solution.

[0034] In the embodiments disclosed herein, such as Figures 5-7 As shown, the plug module 3 also includes a second external structure 32 and a ferrule structure 33; The second external structure 32 is connected to the first external structure 22, and the insert structure 33 is sleeved inside the second external structure 32; The socketing method can adopt conventional fitting forms such as tight fit, gap fit plus limiting protrusion. The outer contour of the ferrule structure 33 can be finely adjusted according to the internal dimensions of the second external structure 32. As long as stable socketing can be achieved, the ferrule structure 33 can be prevented from shifting or shaking within the second external structure 32, and the position of the internal grating coupling array 31 can be ensured to be accurate, it still falls within the protection scope of this technical solution.

[0035] like Figure 3 , Figure 7 As shown, the sliding connection module 41 includes an internal groove 411 and a first protrusion 412; The internal groove 411 is disposed inside the first external structure 22, and the first protrusion 412 is disposed at both ends of the second external structure 32 along a third direction and is adapted to the internal groove 411; together they realize the initial docking of the second external structure 32 and the first external structure 22.

[0036] It should be understood that the specific settings of the relevant structures can be conventionally adapted and adjusted, and are not limited to the exemplary description: the internal groove 411 is inserted into the first external structure 22, and its cross-sectional shape can be set to a conventional shape such as rectangle, trapezoid, arc, etc. according to the adaptation requirements. The length and width of the groove can be adapted to the size and embedding of the first protrusion 412. Even if the groove is partially connected, it is still within the protection scope of this technical solution. The first protrusion 412 is set at both ends of the second external structure 32 along a third direction and is adapted to the internal groove 411. The number, size, and cross-sectional shape of the first protrusion 412 can be finely adjusted to correspond to the internal groove 411. For example, 1 to 2 first protrusions 412 are set at each end. The surface of the protrusion is rounded to facilitate docking. As long as it can be accurately adapted to the internal groove 411, the smooth embedding of the second external structure 32 and the first external structure 22 can be achieved, and the normal insertion and removal of the plug module 3 can be ensured. All of these do not deviate from the core functional limitation of the sliding connection module 41.

[0037] refer to Figures 2-3 , Figure 11 The guide pin embedding module 42 includes a first guide hole 421 and a first guide pin 422; The first guide hole 421 is disposed on one side of the internal groove 411, and the first guide pin 422 is disposed along the second direction at the second end of the insert structure 33 and is adapted to the first guide hole 421.

[0038] It should be noted that after the first protrusion 412 cooperates with the inner groove 411 to realize the docking of the second external structure 32 and the first external structure 22, the corresponding embedding of the first guide pin 422 and the first guide hole 421 can further calibrate the relative positions of each component, ensure more precise docking accuracy, and ensure optical interconnection accuracy. Therefore, the specific settings of the relevant structures can be adaptively fine-tuned: the first guide hole 421 is set on one side of the inner groove 411, and its number, diameter, and spacing can be adjusted according to the setting of the first guide pin 422. For example, 2 to 4 first guide holes 421 are symmetrically distributed on one side of the inner groove 411. The guide holes can be set as blind holes or through holes, as long as they can be accurately matched with the first guide pin 422 to realize the positioning function, all of which are within the protection scope of this technical solution.

[0039] In the embodiments disclosed herein, such as Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 11 As shown, the locking mechanism module 43 includes an elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 and an external groove 432; like Figure 3 As shown, the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 is disposed in the outer groove 432, and the outer groove 432 communicates with the inner groove 411; thereby obtaining the movable space of the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431.

[0040] The elastic snap-fit ​​assembly 431 snaps into the insert structure 33.

[0041] It should be understood that the core function of the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 engaging with the ferrule structure 33 is to lock and fix the ferrule structure 33, which is sleeved within the second external structure 32, preventing displacement or loosening. This snap-fit ​​relationship is merely illustrative and does not constitute a unique limitation. The specific snap-fit ​​form between the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 and the ferrule structure 33 can adopt conventional adaptive structures in the art, such as the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 having a snap hook and the ferrule structure 33 having a corresponding snap groove, or the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 having a snap protrusion and the ferrule structure 33 having a corresponding snap hole. The tightness of the snap-fit ​​can be adaptively fine-tuned according to the fixing requirements of the ferrule structure 33. The elastic force and snap-fit ​​contact area of ​​the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 can also be flexibly adjusted. As long as the effective snap-fit ​​between the two can be achieved, the locking and fixing purpose of the ferrule structure 33 can be achieved, and the disassembly and maintenance of the ferrule structure 33 are not affected, it does not deviate from the core concept of this technical solution and falls within the protection scope of this technical solution.

[0042] In this embodiment of the disclosure, a specific implementation of the above-mentioned elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 is provided. It is only an exemplary structure for realizing its snap-fit ​​and fixing function with the ferrule structure 33, and does not constitute the only limitation on the specific structure and assembly form of the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431.

[0043] like Figures 8-11 As shown, the elastic snap-fit ​​assembly 431 includes a pressing snap-fit ​​member 4311, a pin 4312, a first elastic member 4313, and a base 4314. The base 4314 is fixed to the side of the external groove 432 near the light guide array 21. The pressing latch 4311 is lever-connected to the base 4314 through the pin 4312. The first elastic member 4313 is disposed on the side of the pressing latch 4311 near the pressing end, and one end is fixedly connected to the base 4314, and the other end is fixedly connected to the pressing latch 4311.

[0044] The pressing latch 4311 forms a lever-type movable structure with the base 4314 via the pin 4312, and can reciprocate around the pin 4312. When the pressing end of the pressing latch 4311 is pressed down, the other end of the pressing latch 4311 will lift up, thereby causing the pressing latch 4311 to disengage from the insert structure 33. When it is necessary to engage, the pressing end of the pressing latch 4311 is pressed down, the other end of the pressing latch 4311 lifts up and is pushed into the insert structure 33. Then the pressing latch 4311 is released, and under the action of the first elastic member 4313, the pressing latch 4311 resets and engages with the insert structure 33.

[0045] In this embodiment, a specific implementation of the locking mechanism module 43 described above is provided. Based on the elastic snap-fit ​​assembly 431, the locking mechanism module 43 further includes a second elastic element 4315 and an auxiliary block 4316. The auxiliary block 4316 is fixedly disposed on both sides of the insert structure 33 along the third direction, and one end of the second elastic member 4315 is fixedly connected to the auxiliary block 4316 along the second direction, and the other end is connected to the second external structure 32.

[0046] Pushing the auxiliary block 4316 allows the second external structure 32 to slide within a certain range in the horizontal direction via the second elastic element 4315. (See reference) Figure 11 When sliding to the left, press the pressing latch 4311, and the insert structure 33 can disengage from the pressing latch 4311. Release the pressing latch 4311 and release the insert structure 33. When the second elastic member 4315 returns to its deformation, the insert structure 33 returns to the right and cooperates with the pressing latch 4311 to form a latch.

[0047] In this embodiment, a specific implementation of the insert structure 33 cooperating with the press-fit connector 4311 is provided, namely, the limiting groove 4217, as shown in the following figure. Figure 6 and Figure 11 The limiting groove 4217 is disposed on both sides of the second end of the insert structure 33 along a third direction, and the limiting groove 4217 is adapted to the pressing snap fastener 4311.

[0048] Under normal conditions, the first elastic element 4313 provides elastic preload, causing the pressing latch 4311 to swing around the pin 4312, so that the latching end of the pressing latch 4311 is precisely embedded in the limiting groove 4217. The inner wall of the limiting groove 4217 limits the latching end of the pressing latch 4311, effectively preventing the pressing latch 4311 from slipping or deviating, and greatly improving the stability and positioning accuracy of the latching. When disassembling the insert structure 33, pressing the pressing end of the pressing latch 4311 causes its latching end to rotate around the pin 4312 and disengage from the limiting groove 4217, which quickly releases the locking state of the insert structure 33 and smoothly completes the disassembly.

[0049] It should be understood that the core function of the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 snapping into the ferrule structure 33 is to lock and fix the ferrule structure 33 sleeved in the second external structure 32, preventing the ferrule structure 33 from shifting or loosening, thereby ensuring the optical interconnection between the grating coupling array 31 and the light guide array 21 inside the ferrule structure 33. The description of this snap-fit ​​relationship is only an illustrative example and does not constitute a unique limitation. The specific snap-fit ​​form between the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 and the insert structure 33 can adopt conventional adaptive structures in the field, such as the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 having a snap hook and the insert structure 33 having a corresponding snap groove, or the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 having a snap protrusion and the insert structure 33 having a corresponding snap hole. The tightness of the snap-fit ​​can be adaptively fine-tuned according to the fixing requirements of the insert structure 33. The force and snap-fit ​​contact area of ​​the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 can also be flexibly adjusted. As long as the effective snap-fit ​​between the two can be achieved, the locking and fixing purpose of the insert structure 33 can be achieved, and the disassembly and maintenance of the insert structure 33 are not affected, it does not deviate from the core concept of this technical solution and falls within the protection scope of this technical solution.

[0050] In this embodiment of the disclosure, reference is made to Figure 2 and Figure 4 The first external structure 22 includes a second groove 221 and a positioning pin 222; The second groove 221 is disposed on one side of the light guide array 21 along the first direction, and the positioning pin 222 is disposed inside the second groove 221 along the first direction, and the inside of the second groove 221 is plated with gold. The first end of the packaging substrate 1 is provided with a positioning hole 14; the second groove 221 fits with the first end of the packaging substrate 1, and the positioning pin 222 is adapted to the positioning hole 14. After positioning, the socket module 2 is pre-installed on the packaging substrate 1 with high precision by eutectic bonding or reflow-resistant adhesive.

[0051] It should be understood that the core function of the positioning of the first external structure 22 with the packaging substrate 1 and the pre-installation of the socket module 2 is to achieve the alignment of the socket module 2 with the packaging substrate 1, ensuring that the light guide array 21 inside the socket module 2 can be aligned with the optical chip 11 on the packaging substrate 1, providing positional assurance for the subsequent optical interconnection between the two, and ensuring the stability of the structure after pre-installation. The description of the relevant structure and installation method is only an illustrative example and does not constitute a unique limitation. The cross-sectional shape of the second groove 221 can be set to a conventional shape such as rectangle or trapezoid according to the shape of the first end of the packaging substrate 1. The depth and width of the groove can be adapted to the size of the first end of the packaging substrate 1 to ensure a tight fit. The number, diameter, and length of the positioning pins 222 can be adjusted to correspond to the positioning holes 14. For example, 2 to 4 positioning pins 222 can be symmetrically distributed inside the second groove 221. The surface of the positioning pins 222 is polished to improve the fitting accuracy. As long as positioning can be achieved and relative displacement between the socket module 2 and the packaging substrate 1 is avoided, it does not depart from the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0052] In this embodiment of the disclosure, reference is made to Figure 1 The optical chip 11, the composite lens group 12, and the optical bridge 13 are sequentially disposed on the first surface of the packaging substrate 10 along the second direction, and the optical chip 11 is optically interconnected with the optical bridge 13 through the composite lens group 12. The optical bridge 13 is optically interconnected with the socket module 2 via the light guide array 21, thereby enabling the optical chip 11 to be optically interconnected with the light guide array 21.

[0053] It should be understood that the core purpose of the optical interconnection formed between the optical chip 11, the dual lens group, the optical bridge 13, and the light guide array 21 is to achieve stable and low-loss transmission of optical signals between the optical chip 11 and the light guide array 21. The description of the above optical interconnection path and component structure is only illustrative and does not constitute the sole limitation of the present invention. The optical chip 11 is provided with a first optical port as an input or output port for optical signals; the composite lens group 12 is a dual lens group, and the optical bridge 13 is provided with a second optical port and a third optical port at both ends along the first direction, respectively. The optical signal in the optical chip 11 is output through the first optical port, and through the optical collimation and focusing effect of the dual lens group, a high-efficiency optical interconnection with the second optical port of the optical bridge 13 is achieved; after the optical signal is transmitted to the second optical port, it is transmitted along the light guide path inside the optical bridge 13 to the third optical port, and finally the third optical port completes the optical interconnection with the light guide array 21, forming a complete optical signal transmission link.

[0054] It should be noted that this technical solution does not impose a unique limitation on the specific implementation of the optical interconnect link. The dual-lens group is only a preferred embodiment of the composite lens group 12. It can be replaced with conventional lens combination structures in the art, such as single-lens groups or multi-lens groups, according to the actual requirements of focal length, collimation, and coupling efficiency of optical transmission. The material, radius of curvature, and array arrangement of the lenses can all be adaptively fine-tuned. The optical bridge 13 can use conventional light guiding structures such as optical waveguides and integrated fiber arrays to realize optical signal transmission. The number, aperture, and arrangement density of the second and third optical ports can be flexibly adjusted to match the port specifications of the first optical port and the light guiding array 21.

[0055] In this embodiment, a specific implementation is provided for the connection between the second external structure 32 and the ferrule structure 33. Specifically, the plug module 3 further includes a third groove 34, a second protrusion 35, a third protrusion 36, and a fourth protrusion 37; the third groove 34 is disposed on the inner surface of the second external structure 32 along a first direction, and the second protrusion 35 is disposed inside the third groove 34 along the first direction; the third protrusion 36 and the fourth protrusion 37 are sequentially disposed on the surface of the ferrule structure 33 along a second direction, and the third protrusion 36 and the fourth protrusion 37 are adapted to the third groove 34; when the third protrusion 36 and the fourth protrusion 37 are inserted into the third groove 34, the second protrusion 35 is located between the third protrusion 36 and the fourth protrusion 37.

[0056] It should be understood that the core function of the mating structure of the third groove 34, the second protrusion 35, the third protrusion 36 and the fourth protrusion 37 is to achieve precise assembly and multi-directional positioning of the second external structure 32 and the insert structure 33, and to prevent the insert structure 33 from axially and radially moving or shifting within the second external structure 32, so as to provide an assembly positioning basis for the subsequent snap-fit ​​fixing of the elastic snap-fit ​​assembly 431. The above description of the structural settings, arrangement direction and mating relationship is only an illustrative example and does not constitute the only limitation of the present invention.

[0057] In practical applications, the above structure can be adapted in a conventional way without deviating from the core concept of this technical solution. The cross-sectional shape of the third groove 34 can be set to a conventional form such as rectangle or trapezoid according to assembly requirements. The groove depth and width can be matched with the dimensions of the third protrusion 36 and the fourth protrusion 37. The height and width of the second protrusion 35, as well as the spacing and external dimensions of the third protrusion 36 and the fourth protrusion 37, can be flexibly adjusted. As long as the second protrusion 35 can be stably locked between the two, it is all within the protection scope of this technical solution.

[0058] Additionally, refer to Figure 5In this embodiment, the bottom of the packaging substrate 1 is provided with ball grid array solder balls 15 (BGA), and the top surface of the packaging substrate 1 is mounted with chips such as microcontroller unit (MCU) chip 16 and electrical chip 17. It should be understood that the arrangement of BGA solder balls 15, electrical chip 17, MCU chip 16, etc., is an auxiliary function configuration to realize electrical connection, signal control and functional expansion of the packaging substrate 1. Its core function is to realize stable electrical connection between the packaging substrate 1 and the external circuit board through BGA solder balls 15, to ensure power supply and signal transmission of components such as optical chip 11 and light guide array 21, and to realize the control of the overall working state of the optical connector and signal conditioning functions through the mounting of MCU chip 16, etc. The relevant settings are only illustrative and do not constitute the only limitation. In practical applications, the number, arrangement, and diameter of the BGA solder balls 15 can be adaptively adjusted according to the size of the packaging substrate 1 and the electrical connection requirements. Conventional solder balls, tin-lead alloy balls, and other compatible types can be selected. The chips mounted on the top surface of the packaging substrate 1 are not limited to MCU chips 16 and electrical chips 17. Driver chips, detection chips, and other compatible chips can also be mounted according to functional requirements. The mounting position and model specifications of the chips can be flexibly adjusted. As long as the electrical connection and functional control of the packaging substrate 1 can be achieved, and the normal operation and optical interconnection accuracy of core components such as optical chips 11 and light guide array 21 are not affected, they do not deviate from the core concept of this technical solution and fall within the protection scope of this technical solution.

[0059] This disclosure also provides a method of using the above-described optical connector, including the following steps: S1: Positioning and installation of socket module 2; Align the first external structure 22 of the socket module 2 with the packaging substrate 1, and insert the first end of the packaging substrate 1 into the second groove 221 of the first external structure 22, so that the positioning pin 222 in the second groove 221 is precisely inserted into the preset positioning hole 14. The initial positioning of the socket module 2 and the packaging substrate 1 is achieved by the adaptation of the positioning pin 222 and the positioning hole 14. After positioning, the socket module 2 is fixed to the packaging substrate 1 with high precision by eutectic bonding or reflow resistant adhesive, ensuring that the socket module 2 will not shift or shake after fixing, thus ensuring the accuracy of subsequent optical interconnection.

[0060] S2: The ferrule structure 33 and the second external structure 32 are assembled. Align the third protrusion 36 and the fourth protrusion 37 on the surface of the ferrule structure 33 with the third groove 34 on the inner surface of the second external structure 32, and insert the third protrusion 36 and the fourth protrusion 37 into the third groove 34, so that the second protrusion 35 in the third groove 34 of the second external structure 32 is positioned between the third protrusion 36 and the fourth protrusion 37, thereby achieving a stable connection between the ferrule structure 33 and the second external structure 32.

[0061] S3, Insertion operation of the ferrule structure 33 and the socket structure: S301. Align the first protrusions 412 at both ends of the second external structure 32 with the internal grooves 411 of the socket module 2, insert the plug structure 33 into the socket module 2, and slowly push the plug module 3 in through the primary guiding effect of the first protrusions 412 and the internal grooves 411. S302, continue pushing until the first guide pin 422 at the second end of the ferrule structure 33 is inserted into the first guide hole 421 on one side of the groove 411 inside the first external structure 22. Through the precise cooperation between the first guide pin 422 and the first guide hole 421, the alignment accuracy between the plug module 3 and the socket module 2 is within ±2um, thus completing the precise alignment. S303, the push-button connector 4311 of the socket module 2 is opened by the insert structure 33, the first elastic member 4313 is in a compressed state, and at the same time the end faces of the first external structure 22 and the second external structure 32 are in contact with each other, and the second elastic member 4315 is also in a compressed state. S304. Continue pushing in the insert structure 33 until the pressing latch 4311 of the socket module 2 returns to its initial state under the elastic restoring force of the first elastic structure. At this time, a "click" locking sound can be heard, indicating that the pressing latch 4311 has been initially reset. S305. After hearing the locking sound, release the plug module 3. Since the second elastic element 4315 is still in a compressed state, it will exert an outward pushing force on the ferrule structure 33. Meanwhile, the pressing latch 4311 of the socket module 2 and the limiting groove 4217 of the ferrule structure 33 always maintain a cooperative state, thereby producing a self-locking effect to ensure that the ferrule structure 33 will not come out on its own. After locking, the ferrule structure 33 is installed in place. At this time, the grating coupling array 31 inside the ferrule structure 33 and the light guide array 21 of the socket module 2 achieve precise optical interconnection. At the same time, all components remain stable to ensure reliability in the installation state.

[0062] S4. Pulling out the ferrule structure 33 and the socket structure: S401, push the ferrule structure 33 to separate the limiting groove 4217 of the ferrule structure 33 from the pressing snap fastener 4311 of the socket module 2, and release the self-locking engagement state of the two. S402. While maintaining the state of pushing the ferrule structure 33, press the pressing latch 4311 of the socket module 2 to open the pressing latch 4311 and disengage it from the limiting groove 4217, thus completely releasing the locking restriction on the ferrule structure 33. S403, Press the latch 4311 to keep it open, pull the plug module 3 outward, and drive the core structure 33 to move outward in sync, so that the first guide pin 422 gradually disengages from the first guide hole 421 and the first protrusion 412 gradually slides out of the internal groove 411, thus completing the removal of the plug module 3. It should be noted that the force of the insertion and removal operation can be adaptively adjusted according to the elastic force of the elastic snap-fit ​​component 431 and the tightness of the fit of each adapter structure. As long as the insertion and removal of the ferrule structure 33 and the socket structure can be stably achieved without damaging the structure of each component, it is within the protection scope of this technical solution.

[0063] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. It should be noted that in this disclosure, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0064] The sequence numbers of the embodiments disclosed above are for descriptive purposes only and do not represent the superiority or inferiority of the embodiments.

[0065] The methods disclosed in the several method embodiments provided in this disclosure can be arbitrarily combined without conflict to obtain new method embodiments.

[0066] The features disclosed in the several product embodiments provided in this disclosure can be combined arbitrarily without conflict to obtain new product embodiments.

[0067] The features disclosed in the several method or device embodiments provided in this disclosure can be arbitrarily combined without conflict to obtain new method or device embodiments.

[0068] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this disclosure, but the scope of protection of this disclosure is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A pluggable optical connector, characterized in that, Includes packaging substrate, socket module and plug module; The socket module is connected to the first end of the packaging substrate, and the second end of the plug module is detachably connected to the first end of the socket module; The packaging substrate includes an optical chip, the socket module includes a light guide array, and the plug module includes a grating coupling array; the optical chip is optically interconnected with the light guide array, and the grating coupling array is optically interconnected with the light guide array.

2. The optical connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The socket module includes a first external structure, the interior of which is fixedly connected to the light guide array, and the first external structure is detachably connected to the socket module. The detachable connection is made via at least one or more of the following modules: (1) Sliding connection module; (2) Guide pin embedding module; (3) Locking mechanism module.

3. The connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plug module also includes a second external structure and a ferrule structure; The second external structure is connected to the first external structure, and the ferrule structure is sleeved inside the second external structure; The sliding connection module includes an internal groove and a first protrusion; The internal groove extends through the interior of the first external structure, and the first protrusion is disposed at both ends of the second external structure along a third direction and is adapted to the internal groove; The guide pin embedding module includes a first guide hole and a first guide pin; The first guide hole is disposed on one side of the internal groove, and the first guide pin is disposed along the second direction at the second end of the insert structure and is adapted to the first guide hole.

4. The optical connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The locking mechanism module includes an elastic snap-fit ​​component and an external groove; The elastic snap-fit ​​component is disposed in the outer groove, and the outer groove communicates with the inner groove; The elastic snap-fit ​​assembly snaps into the ferrule structure.

5. The optical connector according to claim 4, characterized in that, The elastic snap-fit ​​assembly includes a press-fit component, a pin, a first elastic element, and a base; The base is fixed to the side of the external groove near the light guide array, and the pressing latch is lever-connected to the base via the pin; the first elastic element is disposed on the side of the pressing latch near the pressing end, and one end is fixedly connected to the base, and the other end is fixedly connected to the pressing latch; the pressing latch is adapted to the insert structure.

6. The optical connector according to claim 5, characterized in that, The locking mechanism module also includes a second elastic element and an auxiliary block; The auxiliary block is fixed on both sides of the insert structure along the third direction, and one end of the second elastic member is fixedly connected to the auxiliary block along the second direction, while the other end is connected to the second external structure.

7. The optical connector according to claim 5, characterized in that, The locking mechanism module also includes a limiting groove; The limiting groove is disposed on both sides of the second end of the insert structure along a third direction, and the limiting groove is adapted to the pressing snap-fit ​​component.

8. The optical connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first external structure includes a second groove and a locating pin; The second groove is disposed on one side of the light guide array along the first direction, and the positioning pin is disposed inside the second groove along the first direction; The first end of the packaging substrate is provided with a positioning hole; the second groove fits with the first end of the packaging substrate, and the positioning pin is adapted to the positioning hole.

9. The optical connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The packaging substrate also includes a packaging substrate, a composite lens group, and an optical bridge; The optical chip, the composite lens group, and the optical bridge are sequentially disposed on the first surface of the packaging substrate along the second direction, and the optical chip is optically interconnected with the optical bridge through the composite lens group; The optical bridge is optically interconnected with the socket module via a light guide array, thereby enabling the optical chip to be optically interconnected with the light guide array.

10. The optical connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plug module further includes a third groove, a second protrusion, a third protrusion, and a fourth protrusion; The third groove is disposed on the inner surface of the second external structure along the first direction, and the second protrusion is disposed inside the third groove along the first direction; The third protrusion and the fourth protrusion are sequentially disposed on the surface of the insert structure along the second direction, and the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion are adapted to the third groove; When the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion are inserted into the third groove, the second protrusion is positioned between the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion.

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