Angled Optical Communication Modules for Dense PCB Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical communication systems face challenges in maximizing module mounting density on PCBs while ensuring efficient angular coupling of optical fibers without excessive bending, which affects signal transmission quality and alignment with hub ICs.
Innovation Solution
The optical module design incorporates a connector receptacle with a specific angle between the longitudinal axis and the substrate plane, allowing for angled guidance of fiber cable connectors, along with a latching mechanism and molded optical lenses, to facilitate efficient coupling and alignment of optical signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple parallel optical communication modules are mounted on a PCB motherboard, then module mounting density is improved, but the space required for ribbon cable exit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies angular coupling by tilting the optical module at an angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the PCB substrate. This dimensional change in mounting orientation allows the ribbon cable to exit in a direction that does not require additional lateral space between modules, thereby resolving the contradiction between high mounting density and cable routing space requirements.
2Productivity
If modules are mounted closer to hub ICs to increase mounting density, then productivity is improved, but alignment precision becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an angular coupling interface as an intermediary between the optical module and the hub IC. This interface includes specific coupling structures (e.g., angled connectors, positioning features) that facilitate precise alignment even when modules are mounted in close proximity, thereby enabling high mounting density without sacrificing alignment precision.
3Area of stationary object
If fiber cable connectors are angled coupled to modules, then space efficiency is improved, but the complexity of connector assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the angular coupling function directly into the optical module housing and connector assembly as an integrated structure. By combining the mounting interface and cable coupling mechanism into a unified angularly-coupled assembly, the design achieves space efficiency while managing complexity through integration rather than separate components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enhances module density and signal transmission efficiency by reducing fiber bending and improving alignment with hub ICs, supporting high-speed operations up to 120 Gb/s.
Implementation Method 1
an optical lens directed towards the optical fiber end face
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an optical communications system, comprising an optical module, comprising a module motherboard provided with a substrate having an upper surface and a lower surface, an optical component disposed on the upper surface of the substrate, the optical component being configured to submit and / or receive optical signals and being connected to electrical conductors extending through the substrate, an optical coupling module having a first light coupling port, a second light coupling port, and at least one light guiding component guiding light signals between the first and second light coupling ports, and a connector receptacle, a longitudinal axis of the connector receptacle being provided parallel or with an acute angle to the plane of the substrate, and a fiber cable connector provided on an end portion of an optical fiber cable and received in the connector receptacle, thereby, optically coupling a plurality of optical fibers of the optical fiber cable to the first or second light coupling ports. Furthermore, the invention relates to an optical module and a method for mounting an optical communications system, the method.