Combined Optical Electrical Interface Port
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer platform architectures face challenges in providing multiple input/output interfaces due to physical space constraints and signal quality issues, particularly with prevalent interfaces like USB lacking bandwidth and experiencing usability and durability problems from repeated use.
Innovation Solution
A combined optical and electrical interface that integrates an optical communication light engine within a single connector, featuring a floatable lens and latch mechanism for alignment and secure connection, allowing for simultaneous electrical and optical signal transmission with improved signal quality and reduced PCB real estate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate interfaces (USB, optical, etc.) are provided, 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 assembly. The electrical contacts and optical components (lens, light engine) are housed together in one connector, allowing both electrical and optical communication capabilities through a single physical connection point, thereby reducing the number of separate ports needed on the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated connector serves multiple functions simultaneously - it provides both electrical signal transmission through contacts and optical signal transmission through the light engine and lens assembly. This multi-functional design allows a single connector to replace what would traditionally require separate dedicated ports for different communication protocols.
2Speed
If optical interface is used, then bandwidth capacity is improved, but physical space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical components (light engine, lens) are nested within the same connector housing that contains the electrical contacts. The optical sub-assembly is integrated into the existing connector form factor, allowing the optical interface to be housed within the space already allocated for the electrical interface, rather than requiring a completely separate dedicated space.
3Ease of operation
If repeated plugging and unplugging occurs, then usability is improved, but alignment precision and interface durability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By combining electrical and optical interfaces in a single integrated connector, the patent ensures that both interface types experience the same mechanical insertion and extraction forces simultaneously. This unified design means that alignment features (such as guide pins and positioning structures) serve both electrical contacts and optical components together, so that proper alignment is maintained for both interfaces during repeated plugging and unplugging operations.
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 use of space on computer platforms, enhances signal quality by conveying optical signals over distance, and reduces the need for manual alignment and costly production processes, while maintaining compatibility with various standards like USB.
Implementation Method 1
optical communication light engine within a single connector
Implementation Method 2
floatable lens and latch mechanism for alignment
Data Source
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.