Direct Connect RF Pin Configuration for ONU Transceiver Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing manufacturing processes for optical network unit (ONU) transceiver modules are costly due to the complexity and expense of connecting RF interfaces with external components, particularly with conventional RF connectors that require additional hardware and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A direct connect RF pin configuration is implemented, where at least one ground pin and one data pin are secured to a printed circuit board and extend through housing apertures for direct connection to an external component, using methods like soldering, welding, or conductive epoxy, to reduce manufacturing costs and eliminate unnecessary hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional RF connectors with additional hardware and locking mechanisms are used to connect RF interfaces with external components, then connection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the unnecessary RF connector hardware and locking mechanisms from the system, retaining only the essential pin structures that perform the core connection function. This reduces manufacturing cost while maintaining adequate connection reliability for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive pin structures instead of expensive, complex RF connectors. The pins are designed as basic conductive elements that can be directly soldered or attached to the circuit board, eliminating the need for costly connector assemblies while sufficient for the required connection reliability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional RF connectors with additional hardware are used, then connection stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex RF connector housing, locking mechanisms, and additional hardware components, leaving only the essential pin structures. This dramatically simplifies the device while maintaining connection stability through proper pin design and mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex connector to protect simple pins, the patent inverts the approach by designing the pins themselves to be the primary connection element, eliminating the need for protective connector housings and locking mechanisms.
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 configuration significantly reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for costly connectors and cables, achieving a cost reduction of approximately 95% while maintaining effective communication via optical, electrical, and RF signals.
Implementation Method 1
a receive line including an optical receiver coupled to the optical connector and a first post amplifier for converting optical signals to electrical signals
Implementation Method 2
a transmit line including a laser driver coupled to the optical connector and a laser for transmitting optical signals through the optical fiber
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and method for using a direct connect RF pin configuration for an ONU transceiver module to connect directly to an external component. The ONU module communicates with an optical network. The ONU module further includes an RF interface and a direct connect RF pin configuration to communicate using RF signals. In one embodiment, the direct connect RF pin configuration includes two ground pins and a data pin which are spaced apart and directly connected to a PCB of the ONU. The opposing ends of the pins are directly connected to a PCB of an external component, such as an ONU host box. The pins are thus spaced apart such that they do not impede each others' function and available for direct connection to the external component.