Fiber Optic Furcation Module Using Planar Waveguide Card
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic furcation modules in data centers have a depth that is too large for Next Generation Data Centers (NGDCs), which require reduced footprint, lower costs, improved ventilation, and decreased power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic furcation module using a planar waveguide card instead of traditional optical fiber assemblies, allowing for compact design with adapter ports connected via fiber optic transmission channels that provide optical traces for signal transmission and reception, enabling a depth reduction to 5-10 mm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If traditional optical fiber assemblies are used in furcation modules, then reliable optical signal transmission is achieved, but the module depth becomes too large (around 90 mm) for Next Generation Data Centers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical optical fiber assembly system with an integrated planar waveguide card system. The planar waveguide card provides optical transmission channels that eliminate the need for separate optical fibers, adapters, and connectors, thereby reducing module depth from 90 mm to 5-10 mm while maintaining optical signal transmission functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple separate components (optical fibers, adapters, connectors, and routing structures) into a single integrated planar waveguide card. This consolidation integrates the optical transmission function directly into the module structure, eliminating the depth requirements of traditional assembled components
2Length of stationary object
If optical fiber assemblies with standard bend radii are used, then adequate signal transmission is maintained, but the module footprint and depth increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of optical transmission from discrete fiber assemblies with standard bend radii to integrated planar waveguide channels. The planar waveguide card enables tight bend diameters without compromising signal transmission reliability, as the optical paths are etched directly into the card structure with controlled geometry
3Length of stationary object
If larger adapter sizes are used to accommodate optical fiber connections, then connection reliability is improved, but the module depth increases beyond NGDC requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the adapter functionality from the module depth calculation by integrating it into the planar waveguide card structure. The adapter ports are positioned on the card surface without protruding into the module depth, allowing reliable connections while maintaining the compact 5-10 mm depth profile required for NGDCs
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 planar waveguide card solution allows for a significantly reduced module depth, enabling smaller, more efficient data center designs by allowing tighter bend diameters and smaller adapter sizes, improving installation ease and reducing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of fiber optic transmission channels provided by the or each planar wave guide card, the fiber optic transmission channels providing optical traces being operative to transmit and/or receive optical wavelength signals
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a fiber optic furcation module, comprising: at least one planar wave guide card; a first adapter assigned to the or each planar wave guide card, the or each first adapter comprising a plurality of adapter ports for optical fibers terminated in an optical fiber ribbon connector; a plurality of second adapters assigned to the or each planar wave guide card, each of said second adapters comprising one adapter port or two adapter ports, the one or two adapter ports being operative to receive respective single optical fiber connectors terminated with single optical fibers; a plurality of fiber optic transmission channels provided by the or each planar wave guide card, the fiber optic transmission channels providing optical traces being operative to transmit and/or receive optical wavelength signals and connecting each adapter port of a first adapter with an adapter port of one of said second adapters.