Integrated EMR Shield for Optical Subassembly Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optoelectronic devices face challenges in controlling electromagnetic radiation (EMR) transmission through optical ports, as conventional shielding methods like metal coating or forming OSAs from metal are costly and ineffective, especially where optical fibers are involved.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic radiation (EMR) shield with a central portion, wings, and protrusions is embedded within the OSA body, providing electrical contact with a grounded structure to effectively limit EMR transmission while maintaining optical signal passage through a smaller opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If an OSA is coated with metal to control EMR transmission, then EMR shielding effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing complexity and reliability deteriorate due to metal flaking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a non-conductive OSA body material with an integrated conductive shield structure. The shield is formed as part of the OSA body through molding processes, creating a composite structure where the conductive shield and non-conductive body are unified. This eliminates the need for separate metal coatings that can flake off, while maintaining effective EMR shielding through the integrated conductive geometry.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If an OSA is formed from metal to control EMR transmission, then EMR shielding effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the OSA into functional segments: a non-conductive body material for structural integrity and optical functionality, and an integrated conductive shield portion for EMR control. This segmentation allows each material to be optimized for its specific function while being manufactured together as a single component, reducing overall manufacturing cost compared to using metal throughout.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies conductive properties only to specific portions of the OSA where EMR shielding is needed, rather than making the entire OSA from metal. The conductive shield is strategically positioned to control EMR transmission through optical ports and interfaces, while the rest of the OSA remains non-conductive for optical and mechanical performance, optimizing both cost and performance.
3Use of energy by moving object
If optical ports are opened in the housing for fiber connection, then optical signal transmission is improved, but EMR transmission control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a thin conductive shield structure that is integrated into the OSA body at the optical port interface. This conductive shield acts as an electromagnetic barrier while maintaining the optical transmission path for fiber connections. The shield geometry is designed to control EMR transmission through the port area without blocking the optical signal path.
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 EMR shield effectively reduces EMR transmission into and out of optoelectronic devices, avoiding the costs and inefficiencies of metal coatings or metal OSAs, while allowing optical signals to pass through, thus enhancing device performance and reducing electromagnetic interference.
Implementation Method 1
An electromagnetic radiation (EMR) shield with a central portion, wings, and protrusions is embedded within the OSA body, providing electrical contact with a grounded structure to effectively limit EMR transmission
Data Source
AI summary
In one example embodiment, an electromagnetic radiation (EMR) shield includes a central portion, an opening defined in the central portion, a wing attached to and extending outward from the central portion, and a protrusion defined in the wing. The perimeter of the EMR shield is approximately the same size and shape as that of a portion of an associated optical subassembly (OSA).