Combined Optical Electrical Interface Connector Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer platform architectures face challenges in providing both optical and electrical interface capabilities within a single, compact connector, which affects signal quality and bandwidth due to physical space constraints and the need for precise alignment, especially as devices become smaller and more durable.
Innovation Solution
A combined optical and electrical interface connector with a floatable lens and alignment mechanism, incorporating an optical communication light engine, allows for simultaneous electrical and optical signal transmission within a single port, reducing the need for manual alignment and increasing bandwidth by conveying optical signals over a distance, thus improving signal quality and reducing physical space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate ports are provided for different interfaces, then interface versatility is improved, but physical space requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple interface types (electrical USB interface and optical interface) into a single integrated connector housing. The connector includes both electrical contacts and optical components (lens, fiber optic cable) within one physical structure, allowing a single port to support multiple interface standards and protocols simultaneously, thereby reducing the number of separate ports needed while maintaining interface versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with multi-functionality to support both electrical and optical signal transmission through a single interface. The housing accommodates different connector types (e.g., USB Type-A, Type-B, Micro-USB) and optical configurations, enabling one port to serve multiple purposes and interface standards, thus reducing physical space requirements while maintaining adaptability
2Measurement precision
If manual alignment is required for optical components, then optical signal quality is improved, but ease of operation and durability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates self-alignment mechanisms where the optical components (lens, fiber optic cable) and electrical contacts automatically align with each other and with the mating connector through mechanical features such as guide pins, alignment grooves, and spring-loaded structures. This eliminates the need for manual alignment while maintaining optical signal quality, thereby improving ease of operation and durability through repeated plugging and unplugging
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment with automated mechanical features built into the connector structure. Alignment grooves, guide pins, and spring mechanisms automatically position optical and electrical components correctly during insertion, substituting the need for manual adjustment with self-actuating mechanical systems that ensure precise alignment while simplifying operation
3Productivity
If optical components are integrated into the connector, then bandwidth capacity is improved, but manufacturing complexity and precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional modules: an electrical contact assembly, an optical assembly (lens, fiber optic cable), and a housing structure. Each module can be manufactured and tested separately using specialized processes, then assembled into the final integrated connector. This segmentation reduces manufacturing complexity by allowing specialized fabrication techniques for each component while maintaining the high bandwidth capacity of the integrated optical-electrical interface
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves as an intermediary that integrates and positions the electrical contacts and optical components. It provides mechanical support, alignment features, and protection for the delicate optical elements, thereby managing the complexity of integrating high-bandwidth optical capabilities with electrical interfaces while maintaining manufacturability through modular assembly
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
The solution enables efficient, high-bandwidth, and durable interface capabilities within a compact form factor, enhancing signal quality and reducing the complexity of manual alignment, while accommodating various interface standards and protocols.
Implementation Method 1
an optical fiber extending from the floatable lens
Implementation Method 2
a floatable lens
Implementation Method 3
a set of electrical contacts mounted in the connector housing and electrically connecting with a corresponding wire
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A connection port provides electrical and/or optical interface capability. The combined electrical and optical interface port may include an optical communication light engine within the connection port itself. The connection port includes a connector housing, an electrical interface assembly, and an optical interface assembly incorporated together. One implementation of the optical communication light engine includes a laser diode to generate optical signals, a photo diode to receive optical signals, and an optical integrated circuit (IC) to control optical interface.