Bi-directional Optical Module Tapered Bore WDM Filter Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional bi-directional optical subassemblies require complex external processing and specialized tools for mounting the WDM filter, which complicates the manufacturing process and alignment, especially due to the need for precise angle adjustments for wavelength division multiplexing.

Innovation Solution

A bi-directional optical module design featuring a body with co-axially formed bores and a tapered surface for securing the WDM filter, allowing for internal mounting and alignment using a slant surface tool and ultraviolet curable adhesive, simplifying the assembly process and eliminating the need for external processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the WDM filter is mounted using conventional external processing methods, then the filter can be securely mounted, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and requires specialized tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the WDM filter mounting function directly into the module body by forming a tapered bore within the body structure itself, eliminating the need for separate external processing steps and specialized mounting tools while maintaining secure filter attachment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The module body provides its own integrated tapered bore structure for filter mounting, making the system self-contained and eliminating dependence on external processing equipment and specialized tools for the mounting operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If the WDM filter is mounted using conventional external processing methods, then the filter can be securely mounted, but the alignment becomes complex requiring precise angle adjustments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoidalignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a tapered cylindrical bore instead of a flat angled surface for mounting the WDM filter. The tapered geometry provides self-alignment through its conical shape, eliminating the need for precise angular adjustments while maintaining secure mounting of the filter at the correct orientation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The tapered bore is pre-formed within the module body during manufacturing, establishing the correct mounting geometry in advance. This preliminary structuring ensures proper filter alignment is achieved automatically during assembly without requiring complex real-time angle adjustments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If external processing is used for WDM filter mounting, then the filter can be mounted, but production time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoidproduction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter mounting structure is merged into the module body fabrication process itself, allowing the tapered bore to be created during the same manufacturing operations that form the module housing, thereby eliminating separate processing steps and reducing overall production time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The module body structure serves its own mounting function through the integrated tapered bore, eliminating the need for external processing equipment and additional manufacturing steps, thereby streamlining production and improving efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 manufacturing efficiency by allowing for precise alignment and secure mounting of the WDM filter within the module, reducing production complexity and improving optical coupling efficiency while maintaining high transmittance and reflectance specifications for different wavelengths.

Implementation Method 1

mounting and alignment using a slant surface tool and ultraviolet curable adhesive

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltraviolet curable adhesive: Photopolymerisation

Data Source

PatentUS7762730B2Bi-directional optical module and a method for assembling the same
Publication Date: 2010.07.27 SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES LTD
  • US7762730B2 patent drawing
  • US7762730B2 patent drawing
  • US7762730B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bi-directional optical subassembly (BOSA) is disclosed. The BOSA of the present invention provides first and second optical devices, a WDM filter and the body that is configured to secure two optical devices and to install the WDM filter. The body has a cylindrical shape with a large bore, a small bore and a joint bore connecting two bores. The WDM filter is attached to the tapered surface of the joint bore.