An optical module extension shield, an optical module assembly, and an optical module testing method
By designing an external shield for the optical module, the insertion loss of the optical signal is controlled within the test tolerance, which solves the problem of unstable test results and achieves stability and protection effect in the optical module test.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202610922274.9
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-06-24
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-25
AI Technical Summary
The existing optical module extension shield causes unstable test results during the testing process, affecting the normal testing effect of the optical module.
Design an optical module epitaxial shield, including a housing and optical connectors, to ensure that the typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector is less than or equal to the test tolerance of the optical module, and to connect with the test lines through an adapter structure. The housing can be slidably fixed to protect the optical module.
To ensure the stability and accuracy of optical module test results, reduce the probability of optical module ferrules being damaged due to repeated connections, avoid the potential damage caused by loose or tangled jumper wires, and facilitate operation.
Smart Images
Figure CN122632399A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention belongs to the field of optical module manufacturing, and specifically relates to an optical module epitaxial shield, an optical module component, and an optical module testing method. Background Technology
[0002] Optical fiber communication uses light as the information carrier and optical fiber as the data transmission medium. It boasts advantages such as large communication capacity, low loss, long transmission distance, and strong resistance to electromagnetic interference. Currently, with the rapid development of optical fiber communication technology, optical communication products are being used more and more widely across various industries. The usage environments are also becoming more complex and diverse. With the rapid expansion of AI and 5G technologies, the market demand for high-density transmission via optical fiber communication is also increasing.
[0003] Previous patent CN121432637A disclosed an optical module epitaxial shield that can protect the interface of an optical module during the production process. Its first interface is configured to be detachably fixed to the optical module, and a first optical connector in the first interface is coupled to a ferrule in the optical module. The second interface is a docking port compatible with other optical modules. This optical module epitaxial shield can be detachably fixed to the optical module for extended periods during production and testing. In this state, the shield and the optical module form a unified whole, effectively protecting the exposed docking ports within the optical module during production.
[0004] The aforementioned optical module extension shield can effectively protect the optical module from both physical structure and docking testing perspectives, thereby reducing defects caused by damage to the optical module during testing, and it is also very convenient to use.
[0005] However, during use, users found that this temporarily added optical module epitaxial shield caused unstable test results. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an optical module epitaxial shield with better testing performance. Summary of the Invention
[0006] This invention provides an optical module epitaxial shield to solve the problem of unstable test results caused by using current optical module epitaxial shields. The technical solution to the problem is as follows: In a first aspect, the present invention provides an optical module epitaxial shield, comprising a housing, a first optical connector, and a second optical connector. The housing has a first opening and a second opening. The first optical connector is disposed within the first opening to form a first interface, and the second optical connector is disposed within the second opening to form a second interface. Optical signals can propagate from the first optical connector to the second optical connector. The first interface is configured to be detachably fixed to the optical module, and the second interface is used to connect to a test line. The typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector is less than or equal to the test tolerance of the optical module.
[0007] In one possible implementation, the typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector is less than or equal to 0.6 dB.
[0008] In one possible implementation, both the first optical connector and the second optical connector are ultra-low loss components, and the typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector is less than or equal to 0.35 dB.
[0009] In one possible implementation, the first optical connector and the second optical connector are both of the same ferrule type.
[0010] In one possible implementation, both the first optical connector and the second optical connector are any one of MPO ferrules, LC ferrules, MMC ferrules, and SN ferrules.
[0011] In one possible implementation, the second interface further includes an adapter structure, one end of which is fixedly connected to the second interface, and the other end of which is used to connect to a test line.
[0012] In one possible implementation, both the first optical connector and the second optical connector are female connectors.
[0013] In one possible implementation, an outer shell is also included, which is fitted around the outer periphery of the housing. A snap-fit groove is provided on the outer side of the first opening. The snap-fit groove is snapped and fixed with a hook inside the optical module. The outer shell can slide back and forth relative to the housing. When the outer shell slides to the locked position, it can cover the snap-fit groove and the hook that are snapped and fixed.
[0014] In one possible implementation, the outer dimensions of the housing are smaller than the internal dimensions of the docking port.
[0015] In one possible implementation, the housing includes a first end and a second end, the first end being used to enclose a snap-fit groove and a snap-fit hook for locking, and the projection of the second end and the shape of the housing onto the plane of the central axis of the vertical optical module extension shield not exceeding the projection of the first end onto the plane of the central axis of the vertical optical module extension shield.
[0016] In one possible implementation, the housing includes a first housing and a second housing, the first housing being fixedly connected to the second housing.
[0017] In one possible implementation, the first housing and the second housing are fastened together vertically, and the first opening and the second opening are formed by the first housing and the second housing together.
[0018] In one possible implementation, the first housing includes an inner housing and a stop that is snapped and fixed to the inner housing, and the inner housing is provided with the first opening; the second housing includes a fixing part and a connecting part, the fixing part is used to fix the second insert, the fixing part is provided with the second opening, and the connecting part is used to connect and fix the stop and the fixing part.
[0019] In one possible implementation, there are multiple first interfaces, the first optical connector includes a plurality of first ferrules, the number of which is the same as the number of ferrules in the optical module, and the second optical connector includes a plurality of second ferrules, the number of which is the same as the number of first ferrules and second ferrules, and optical signals can be propagated from the first ferrules to the corresponding second ferrules.
[0020] In one possible implementation, the second interface is provided with a dustproof structure that can cover the second interface.
[0021] In one possible implementation, the dustproof structure includes a protrusion, a torsion spring, a rotating shaft, and a dustproof plate disposed outside the second opening. The protrusion has a mounting hole, and the dustproof plate has a connecting hole. The rotating shaft passes through the mounting hole, the torsion spring, and the connecting hole, so that the dustproof plate automatically covers the second interface.
[0022] Secondly, the present invention provides an optical module extension shield, comprising a housing, a first optical connector, a second optical connector, and an outer shell sleeved around the outer periphery of the housing. The housing has a first opening and a second opening. The first optical connector is disposed in the first opening to form a first interface, and the second optical connector is disposed in the second opening to form a second interface. The first interface is configured to be detachably fixed to the optical module, and the second interface is used to connect to a test line. The outer shell can slide back and forth relative to the housing. The outer shell includes a first end and a second end. The first end is used to wrap a snap-fit groove and a hook for snap-fit fixing. The projection of the second end and the outer shape of the housing onto the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the optical module extension shield does not exceed the projection of the first end onto the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the optical module extension shield.
[0023] Thirdly, the present invention provides an optical module assembly, including an optical module and an optical module extension shield as described above, wherein the optical module is fixedly connected to a first interface of the optical module extension shield.
[0024] Fourthly, the present invention provides a method for testing optical modules. S1 fixes the first interface of the optical module epitaxial shield as described above to the optical module; connects the test line to the second interface of the optical module epitaxial shield; S2 performs the first test on the optical module through the test line, and after the test is completed, it exits the test line from the second interface. S3 performs a second test on the optical module through the test cable. After the test is completed, the test cable is removed from the second interface. This process is repeated until all tests are completed. S4 removes the optical module extension shield from the optical module.
[0025] In one possible implementation, the first test and / or the second test is an insertion loss test, the measured value of the insertion loss test is a, and the actual insertion loss value of the optical module is b=ac, where c is the typical insertion loss value of the optical module's epitaxial shield.
[0026] Fifthly, the present invention provides an extension shield, including a housing, a first ferrule, and a second ferrule. The housing has a first opening and a second opening. The first ferrule is disposed in the first opening to form a first interface, and the second ferrule is disposed in the second opening to form a second interface. The first interface is configured to be detachably fixed to a test device, and the second interface is configured to be connected to an optical fiber connector.
[0027] Beneficial effects In the optical module extension shield of this invention, the typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector is less than or equal to the test tolerance of the optical module. This ensures that the optical module extension shield, which adds an extra test link, does not affect the normal test results, guaranteeing that the test results for qualified optical modules remain stable within the allowable error range. Thus, without affecting normal testing, the optical module extension shield can effectively reduce the probability of damage to the ferrule in the optical module due to repeated mating. Moreover, the optical module extension shield and the optical module itself are combined into a single unit, which not only facilitates operation but also avoids various potential hazards to the optical module caused by the detachment or entanglement of jumpers, thereby protecting the optical module. Attached Figure Description
[0028] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of the present invention 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.
[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the optical module extension shield in Embodiment 1 of the present invention; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the connection between the optical module's outer shield and the optical module; Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of the outer shield of the optical module; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an optical module testing system in the prior art; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a test system for optical modules equipped with an optical module extension shield; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the optical module extension shield in another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the shell structure in Example 1; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the shell structure in another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the optical module extension shield in another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the optical module extension shield in Embodiment 2 of the present invention; Figure 11 This is an exploded schematic diagram of the housing of the optical module extension shield in Embodiment 2 of the present invention; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the internal outline of the docking port on the optical module's docking end face; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the projection of the optical module's outer shield onto a plane perpendicular to its central axis in Embodiment 2; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the optical module's outer shield and the optical module in Embodiment 2.
[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 100. Optical module outer shield; 10. Housing; 11. First opening; 111. Snap-fit groove; 12. Second opening; 121. Protrusion; 13. First housing; 131. Inner housing; 132. Stop; 1321. First snap-fit groove; 14. Second housing; 141. Fixing part; 1411. Second snap-fit groove; 142. Connecting part; 1421. First snap-fit protrusion; 1422. Second snap-fit protrusion; 1423. 1424 Bottom shell; 20 First optical connector; 30 Second optical connector; 40 Outer shell; 41 First end; 42 Second end; 50 Dustproof structure; 51 Torsion spring; 52 Dustproof plate; 60 Central axis of optical module outer shield; 200 Optical module; 201 Hook; 211 Dating port; 212 Optical module outer shell; 300 Test system; 310 Test equipment; 320 Test line. Detailed Implementation
[0031] To make the technical problems solved, technical solutions, and beneficial effects 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 of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the invention.
[0032] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the use of "first" and "second" in different embodiments is used to distinguish the same component in different embodiments, and does not necessarily mean that there are other components with the same structure in that embodiment.
[0033] The following describes the various optical module extension shields of the present invention.
[0034] Example 1 In order to protect the optical module without affecting its normal testing, this embodiment provides an optical module extension shield 100.
[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the optical module extension shield in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the connection between the optical module's outer shield and the optical module. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the outer shield of the optical module, as shown below. Figures 1-3 As shown, the optical module extension shield 100 includes a housing 10, a first optical connector 20, and a second optical connector 30. The housing 10 has a first opening 11 and a second opening 12. The first optical connector 20 is disposed in the first opening 11 to form a first interface, and the second optical connector 30 is disposed in the second opening 12 to form a second interface. Optical signals can be transmitted from the first optical connector 20 to the second optical connector 30. The first interface is configured to be detachably fixed to the optical module 200, and the second interface is used to connect to the test line.
[0036] It should be noted that the second interface is used to connect with the test line. There are two connection scenarios. The first scenario is during manual testing, where the test line needs to be fixedly connected to the optical module outer shield 100 to ensure stable transmission of the optical signal throughout the test link. The second scenario is during automatic testing, where the optical module is fixed on the test fixture, the optical module outer shield is fixed on the optical module, and the test line is clamped in the automatic testing device. In this case, the connection between the optical module outer shield and the test line can be achieved by the automated device, and the optical module outer shield and the test line do not need to be fixed to each other. Stable transmission of the optical signal can still be guaranteed.
[0037] Specifically, the optical module extension shield 100 also includes an outer shell 40 sleeved around the outer periphery of the housing 10. A snap-fit groove 111 is provided on the outer side of the first opening 11. The snap-fit groove 111 is snapped and fixed with the snap hook 201 inside the optical module 200. The outer shell 40 can slide back and forth relative to the housing 10. When the outer shell 40 slides to the locked position, it can wrap around the snap-fit groove 111 and the snap hook 201 that are snapped and fixed.
[0038] For fully assembled optical modules, their insertion loss must be within the specified acceptable range to ensure the stable operation of downstream data center systems. Therefore, the accuracy of optical module performance measurement is extremely important.
[0039] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an optical module testing system in the prior art, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the optical module test system 300 generally includes test equipment 310 and test lines 320. Taking the 1.6T OSFP (Octal Small Form-factor Pluggable) optical module of InnoLight Technology as an example, the optical module has two MPO docking ports. When testing it, the test line 320 is an MPO-FC test line. The MPO end of the test line 320 is connected to the MPO docking port of the optical module, and the FC end is connected to the test equipment 310.
[0040] Before performing insertion loss testing on the optical module 200, the insertion loss value of the test cable 320 is measured, and a compensation value identical to the insertion loss value of the test cable 320 is set in the system to eliminate the influence of the test cable 320. When testing the optical module 200, the test cable 320 is connected to the optical module 200, and the testing equipment 310 can directly display the insertion loss value of the optical module 200.
[0041] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a test system for optical modules equipped with an optical module epitaxial shield, as shown below. Figure 5 As shown, the first interface of the optical module extension shield 100 is fixedly connected to the optical module 200 to form a whole, and the second interface is used to connect with the test line to perform performance testing on the optical module.
[0042] The newly added optical module epitaxial shield itself also introduces additional insertion loss, which also needs to be eliminated to obtain the actual insertion loss value of the optical module. Since the newly added optical module epitaxial shield entering the test link is fixed at the optical module end, rather than at the test system end, the aforementioned methods cannot be used to eliminate its influence. This results in the following situation when measuring an optical module with an optical module epitaxial shield: the measured insertion loss value is 'a', and the actual insertion loss value of the optical module is 'b=ac', where 'c' is the typical insertion loss value of the optical module epitaxial shield, which is the typical insertion loss value of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector.
[0043] Based on practical feedback, we have found that once the typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector exceeds the test tolerance of the optical module, the insertion loss test of the optical module will become extremely poor and very unstable. Even the test results of the optical module golden sample will exceed the test tolerance of the optical module.
[0044] The test tolerance here is equal to the difference between the upper and lower limits of the specified insertion loss acceptable range. In this embodiment, the insertion loss acceptable range of the 1.6T optical module is 0.3~0.8dB, so the test tolerance of the 1.6T optical module is 0.5dB.
[0045] The acceptable insertion loss range varies for different optical modules. For the standard 12-core MPO400G DR4 optical module, the acceptable insertion loss range is 0.3~0.9dB, so the test tolerance for the standard 12-core optical module is 0.6dB.
[0046] Therefore, only by ensuring that the typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector on the outer shield of the optical module is less than or equal to the test tolerance of the optical module can the test results of the optical module standard sample be kept within the normal error range, thus ensuring the accuracy of the test.
[0047] The typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector 20 to the second optical connector 30 in this embodiment is less than or equal to the test tolerance of the optical module. Taking a standard standard loss 12-core MPO 400G DR4 optical module as an example, the typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector of the optical module's outer shield 100 is less than or equal to 0.6dB.
[0048] To meet higher standards of optical module testing and provide higher testing accuracy, the first optical connector 20 and the second optical connector 30 of the optical module epitaxial shield 100 are both ultra-low loss components. The typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector 20 to the second optical connector 30 is less than or equal to 0.35dB.
[0049] Based on the above considerations, the present invention provides a method for testing optical modules. S1 fixes the first interface of the optical module epitaxial shield to the optical module; connects the test line to the second interface of the optical module epitaxial shield; S2 performs the first test on the optical module through the test line, and after the test is completed, it exits the test line from the second interface. S3 performs a second test on the optical module through the test cable. After the test is completed, the test cable is removed from the second interface. This process is repeated until all tests are completed. S4 removes the optical module's outer shield from the optical module to complete the test of the optical module.
[0050] Specifically, the first test and / or the second test is an insertion loss test. The measured value of the insertion loss test is a, and the actual insertion loss value of the optical module is b=ac, where c is the typical insertion loss value of the optical module's epitaxial shield.
[0051] In the optical module extension shield of this invention, the typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector is less than or equal to the test tolerance of the optical module. This ensures that the optical module extension shield, which adds an extra test link, does not affect the normal test results, guaranteeing that the test results for qualified optical modules remain stable within the allowable error range. Thus, without affecting normal testing, the optical module extension shield can effectively reduce the probability of damage to the ferrule in the optical module due to repeated mating. Moreover, the optical module extension shield and the optical module itself are combined into a single unit, which not only facilitates operation but also avoids various potential hazards to the optical module caused by the detachment or entanglement of jumpers, thereby protecting the optical module.
[0052] In this embodiment, the first optical connector 20 includes a first ferrule, and the optical module that needs to be protected also has one ferrule. The second optical connector 30 includes a second ferrule.
[0053] Both the first optical connector 20 and the second optical connector 30 are of the same ferrule type. In this embodiment, both the first optical connector 20 and the second optical connector 30 are MPO ferrules. This allows the optical module epitaxial shield 100 to be directly adapted to any test link without changing the connectors of the test lines, reducing the adaptation difficulty of the optical module epitaxial shield. The first optical connector 20 and the second optical connector 30 can also be any one of LC ferrules, MMC ferrules, and SN ferrules.
[0054] Both the first and second ferrules include guide pin holes. The guide pin hole of the first ferrule is used to mate with the guide pin of the male ferrule in the optical module. Typically, the first and second ferrules are configured as one male and one female. The guide pin hole of the male ferrule has a guide pin for mates with the guide pin holes of other female MPO ferrules, and the guide pin hole of the female ferrule is used for mates with the male MPO ferrule. In this embodiment, the second ferrule is a conventional male ferrule.
[0055] In another possible embodiment, both the first optical connector 20 and the second optical connector 30 are female connectors. Since both ends of the optical module's outer shield are female connectors, expensive test cables can use male connectors. This effectively avoids the problem of severe wear and failure of the guide pin holes of the female fiber optic connectors in the original test cables during the mating process, greatly extending the lifespan of expensive high-performance test cables and effectively reducing testing costs.
[0056] In another possible embodiment, the first optical connector and the second optical connector are integrally formed. Optical fibers are typically fixed using ferrules or fiber optic connectors (FAs), requiring the fiber to be inserted into the fiber hole of the ferrule or placed in the groove of the FA, and then secured with adhesive. However, when both the first and second optical connectors are optical waveguides, they can be integrally formed. Light propagation in an optical waveguide offers advantages over propagation in a ferrule, including lower transmission loss, higher integration, and stronger anti-interference capabilities.
[0057] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the optical module extension shield in another embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 6 As shown, when the optical module to be protected has two ferrules (i.e., the optical module contains two MPO interfaces), the first optical connector 20 contains two first ferrules, and the second optical connector 30 contains two second ferrules. This allows a single optical module extension shield to protect the dual-port optical module. Theoretically, the number of first and second ferrules is the same as the number of ferrules in the optical module, facilitating the convenient use of the optical module extension shield.
[0058] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the shell structure in Embodiment 1, as shown below. Figure 7 As shown, the housing 10 includes a first housing 13 and a second housing 14, and the first housing 13 and the second housing 14 are fixedly connected.
[0059] Specifically, the first housing 13 includes an inner housing 131 and a stop 132 that engages with the inner housing 131, and an outer housing 40 is fitted over the outer side of the inner housing 131. The second housing 14 includes a fixing part 141 and a connecting part 142. The fixing part 141 is used to fix the second insert and has a second opening. The connecting part 142 is used to connect and fix the stop 132 and the fixing part 141.
[0060] In this embodiment, the fixing part 141 is provided with an elastic arm with a barb. When the second insert is installed, the elastic arm is lifted up and the second insert enters the interior of the fixing part. When the second insert is installed in place, the elastic arm springs back to its initial position, and the barb on the elastic arm hooks the back of the second insert to prevent the second insert from coming out of the fixing part.
[0061] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the shell structure in another embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 8As shown, the rear end of the stop 132 is provided with a first snap-fit groove 1321. In this embodiment, the first snap-fit groove 1321 is an annular groove. The fixing part has a second snap-fit groove 1411. The two ends of the connecting part 142 are respectively provided with a first snap-fit protrusion 1421 and a second snap-fit protrusion 1422. The first snap-fit protrusion 1421 is snapped and fixed with the first snap-fit groove 1321, and the second snap-fit protrusion 1422 is snapped and fixed with the second snap-fit groove 1411. Thus, the first housing 13 and the second housing 14 form a solid whole, so that the first ferrule and the second ferrule inside are firmly fixed, which facilitates docking with the optical module and protects the optical module.
[0062] Specifically, the connecting part 142 is formed by snapping together the bottom shell 1423 and the upper shell 1424. In other embodiments, the connecting part 142 can also be a single piece, with the stop 132 and the fixing part 141 fixedly connected by an elastic snap. The bottom shell 1423 and the upper shell 1424 can also be fixed by adhesive bonding, ultrasonic welding, or other methods.
[0063] The bottom shell 1423 and the top shell 1424 can also have the same structure. By rotating the top shell 180 degrees, the bottom shell and the top shell can be joined together to form the connecting part 142. In this way, the bottom shell 1423 and the top shell 1424 can be made using the same mold, which can greatly save on mold opening costs.
[0064] In one possible implementation, the first housing and the second housing are fastened together vertically, and the first opening and the second opening are formed by the first housing and the second housing together.
[0065] In another possible embodiment, a dustproof structure 50 is provided on the second interface to cover it. The dustproof structure 50 can effectively prevent external dust and foreign objects from entering the optical module's outer shield, and can protect the optical path interface in the optical module's outer shield, effectively extending its service life.
[0066] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the optical module extension shield in another embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 9 As shown, the dustproof structure 50 includes a protrusion 121, a torsion spring 51, a rotating shaft, and a dustproof plate 52 disposed outside the second opening 12. The protrusion 121 is provided with a mounting hole, and the dustproof plate 52 is provided with a connecting hole. The rotating shaft passes through the mounting hole, the torsion spring 51, and the connecting hole, so that the dustproof plate 52 automatically covers the second interface.
[0067] Example 2 The optical module epitaxial shield in Example 2 differs from that in Example 1 in that it has a smaller external size.
[0068] Optical modules typically have a pull ring located at the optical signal interface end, which facilitates the removal of the optical module from the rack. Although the pull ring is usually flexible, its design still significantly impacts the insertion and removal of test leads. This impact is even more pronounced for the optical module's external shield, which is fixed to the optical module port for extended periods. If the external shield interferes with the pull ring, it not only hinders the installation and removal of the external shield but also applies continuous pressure. This pressure stresses the ferrule coupling between the external shield and the optical module, affecting the coupling effect and consequently impacting test stability.
[0069] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the optical module extension shield in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 11 This is an exploded schematic diagram of the housing of the optical module extension shield in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
[0070] like Figures 10-11 As shown, the optical module extension shield 100 includes a housing 10, a first optical connector 20, and a second optical connector 30. The housing 10 has a first opening 11 and a second opening 12. The first optical connector 20 is disposed in the first opening 11 to form a first interface, and the second optical connector 30 is disposed in the second opening 12 to form a second interface. Optical signals can be transmitted from the first optical connector 20 to the second optical connector 30. The first interface is configured to be detachably fixed to the optical module 200, and the second interface is used to connect to the test line.
[0071] The optical module extension shield can effectively reduce the probability of damage to the ferrule in the optical module due to repeated connection. Moreover, the optical module extension shield is combined with the optical module itself into a whole, which not only facilitates operation, but also avoids various hidden dangers of damage to the optical module caused by the use of soft jumpers falling off or getting tangled, thus playing a role in protecting the optical module.
[0072] Specifically, the optical module extension shield 100 also includes an outer shell 40 sleeved around the outer periphery of the housing 10. A snap-fit groove 111 is provided on the outer side of the first opening 11. The snap-fit groove 111 is snapped and fixed with the snap hook 201 inside the optical module 200. The outer shell 40 can slide back and forth relative to the housing 10. When the outer shell 40 slides to the locked position, it can wrap the snap-fit groove 111 and the snap hook 201. The outer dimensions of the outer shell are smaller than the internal dimensions of the docking port.
[0073] The "internal dimensions of the docking port" here refers to the internal contour of a single docking port on the optical module's docking end face, such as... Figure 12As shown, the optical module docking end face 210 has two docking ports 211, which are fixed by the optical module housing 212. The overall external dimensions of the housing are smaller than the internal dimensions of the docking ports, allowing the optical module extension shield 100 to enter the docking ports. When the housing 40 slides to the locking position, it can cover the snap-fit groove 111 and the snap-fit hook 201, thereby completing the docking.
[0074] The outer shell 40 includes a first end 41 and a second end 42. The first end 41 is used to wrap the snap-fit groove 111 and the snap hook 201 for snap-fit fixing. The projection of the second end 42 and the outer shape of the outer shell 10 onto the plane of the central axis of the vertical optical module extension shield does not exceed the projection of the first end 41 onto the plane of the central axis 60 of the vertical optical module extension shield. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the projection of the optical module's outer shield onto a plane perpendicular to its central axis in Embodiment 2, as shown below. Figure 13 As shown, the projections of the outer contours of the second end 42 and the housing 10 onto the plane of the central axis 60 of the vertical optical module extension shield do not exceed the projection contour 43 of the first end 41 onto the plane of the central axis 60 of the vertical optical module extension shield.
[0075] Since the optical module uses a standard MPO connector interface, the first end 41 of the housing 40 is fixed to the standard interface. Therefore, when designing the housing, the size and structure of the first end usually remain unchanged, and then the other parts of the fiber optic connector are adjusted according to functional requirements. Thus, the outer contour of the first end of the housing is fixed. When the projections of the dimensions of other components in the optical module's outer shield onto the plane perpendicular to the central axis 60 of the outer shield do not exceed the outer contour of the first end, the size of the optical module's outer shield can be made extremely small.
[0076] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the optical module's outer shield and the optical module in Embodiment 2. Figure 14 The optical module 200 has two MPO interfaces, and the two optical module extension shields 100 are respectively inserted into the two MPO interfaces.
[0077] Since the projection of the second end 42 and the shape of the housing 10 onto the plane of the central axis of the vertical optical module extension shield does not exceed the projection of the first end onto the plane of the central axis 60 of the vertical optical module extension shield, on the one hand, there will be no interference between the optical module extension shield and the pull ring, thus eliminating the problems of insertion and removal difficulties and the pull ring affecting the ferrule coupling effect between the optical module extension shield and the optical module, thereby affecting the stability of the test; on the other hand, the two optical module extension shields 100 inserted into the two MPO interfaces do not interfere with each other and do not affect independent insertion and removal, which allows two single-end optical module extension shields to protect the dual-port optical module.
[0078] Example 3 The optical module extension shield of this invention is not limited to protecting optical modules. It can protect any component that requires frequent replacement of docking parts and is costly and easily damaged, such as the docking port of a test instrument.
[0079] Therefore, this embodiment provides an extension shield, which includes a housing, a first optical connector, and a second optical connector. The housing has a first opening and a second opening. The first optical connector is disposed in the first opening to form a first interface, and the second optical connector is disposed in the second opening to form a second interface. The first interface is configured to be detachably fixed to a test device, and the second interface is configured to be connected to an optical fiber connector.
[0080] When the epitaxial shield is fixedly connected to the docking port of the test instrument, the epitaxial shield can effectively reduce the probability of damage to the optical connectors in the test instrument due to repeated docking. Moreover, the epitaxial shield and the docking port of the test instrument are combined into a solid whole, which can effectively prevent external damage to the docking port of the test instrument.
[0081] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, and should all be included within the protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. An optical module epitaxial shield, characterized in that, The device includes a housing, a first optical connector, and a second optical connector. The housing has a first opening and a second opening. The first optical connector is disposed within the first opening to form a first interface, and the second optical connector is disposed within the second opening to form a second interface. Optical signals can propagate from the first optical connector to the second optical connector. The first interface is configured to be detachably fixed to the optical module, and the second interface is configured to be connected to a test line. The typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector is less than or equal to the test tolerance of the optical module.
2. The optical module extension shield according to claim 1, characterized in that, The typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector is less than or equal to 0.6 dB.
3. The optical module extension shield according to claim 2, characterized in that, Both the first optical connector and the second optical connector are ultra-low loss components, and the typical insertion loss of the optical signal propagating from the first optical connector to the second optical connector is less than or equal to 0.35 dB.
4. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 3, characterized in that, Both the first optical connector and the second optical connector are of the same ferrule type.
5. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 4, characterized in that, Both the first optical connector and the second optical connector are any one of the following: MPO ferrule, LC ferrule, MMC ferrule, and SN ferrule.
6. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first optical connector and the second optical connector are female connectors.
7. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an outer shell that is fitted around the outer periphery of the housing. A snap-fit groove is provided on the outer side of the first opening. The snap-fit groove is snapped and fixed with the hook inside the optical module. The outer shell can slide back and forth relative to the housing. When the outer shell slides to the locked position, it can cover the snap-fit groove and the hook that are snapped and fixed.
8. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 7, characterized in that, The outer dimensions of the outer shell are smaller than the internal dimensions of the docking port.
9. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 8, characterized in that, The outer shell includes a first end and a second end. The first end is used to wrap the snap-fit groove and hook for snap-fit fixing. The projection of the second end and the outer shape of the shell on the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the optical module's outer shield does not exceed the projection of the first end on the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the optical module's outer shield.
10. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing includes a first housing and a second housing, and the first housing and the second housing are fixedly connected.
11. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first housing and the second housing are fastened together and fixed, and the first opening and the second opening are formed by the first housing and the second housing together.
12. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first housing includes an inner housing and a stop that is snapped and fixed to the inner housing. The inner housing is provided with the first opening. The second housing includes a fixing part and a connecting part. The fixing part is used to fix the second insert. The fixing part is provided with the second opening. The connecting part is used to connect and fix the stop and the fixing part.
13. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of the first interfaces is multiple, the first optical connector includes a number of first ferrules, the number of the first ferrules is the same as the number of ferrules in the optical module, the second optical connector includes a number of second ferrules, the number of the first ferrules and the number of the second ferrules are the same, and the optical signal can be propagated from the first ferrule to the corresponding second ferrule.
14. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second interface is provided with a dustproof structure that can cover the second interface.
15. The optical module epitaxial shield according to claim 14, characterized in that, The dustproof structure includes a protrusion, a torsion spring, a rotating shaft, and a dustproof plate disposed outside the second opening. The protrusion has a mounting hole, and the dustproof plate has a connecting hole. The rotating shaft passes through the mounting hole, the torsion spring, and the connecting hole, so that the dustproof plate automatically covers the second interface.
16. An optical module epitaxial shield, characterized in that, The device includes a housing, a first optical connector, and a second optical connector, as well as an outer shell fitted around the outer periphery of the housing. The housing has a first opening and a second opening. The first optical connector is disposed in the first opening to form a first interface, and the second optical connector is disposed in the second opening to form a second interface. The first interface is configured to be detachably fixed to the optical module, and the second interface is used to connect to a test line. The outer shell can slide back and forth relative to the housing. The outer shell includes a first end and a second end. The first end is used to wrap a snap-fit groove and a hook for snap-fit fixing. The projection of the second end and the outer shape of the housing onto the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the optical module's outer shield does not exceed the projection of the first end onto the plane perpendicular to the central axis of the optical module's outer shield.
17. An optical module assembly, characterized in that, It includes an optical module and an optical module extension shield as described in any one of claims 1-16, wherein the optical module is fixedly connected to a first interface of the optical module extension shield.
18. A method for testing optical modules, characterized in that, S1. Fix the first interface of the optical module epitaxial shield as described in any one of claims 1-16 to the optical module to form the optical module assembly as described in claim 17; and connect the test line to the second interface of the optical module epitaxial shield. S2 performs the first test on the optical module through the test line, and exits the test line from the second interface after the test is completed. S3 performs a second test on the optical module through the test cable. After the test is completed, the test cable is removed from the second interface. This process is repeated until all tests are completed. S4 Removes the optical module outer shield from the optical module.
19. The optical module testing method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The first test and / or the second test is an insertion loss test. The measured value of the insertion loss test is a, and the actual insertion loss value of the optical module is b=ac, where c is the typical insertion loss value of the optical module's epitaxial shield.
20. An extended shield, characterized in that, The device includes a housing, a first optical connector, and a second optical connector. The housing has a first opening and a second opening. The first optical connector is disposed in the first opening to form a first interface, and the second optical connector is disposed in the second opening to form a second interface. The first interface is configured to be detachably fixed to a test device, and the second interface is configured to be connected to an optical fiber connector.