Interposer Structure With CTE-Matched Optical Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of maintaining precise optical alignment and thermal stability in optical connections between optical fibers and integrated circuits, especially as optical fibers migrate deeper into communication networks, where temperature variations pose alignment issues.
Innovation Solution
An interposer structure with a silicon-based connector mounting surface and alignment pins, combined with a fiber optic connector ferrule having specific alignment bores and optical fiber openings, ensures proper optical alignment and performance across temperature variations by matching the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) between materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If optical fibers are migrated deeper into communication networks toward electronics in servers and switches, then bandwidth capacity and network speed are improved, but maintaining precise optical alignment during operating conditions becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the connector body by incorporating a recessed portion that receives the ferrule, and configuring alignment features (protrusions and grooves) that constrain thermal movement. This structural parameter change allows the connector to maintain optical alignment precision despite temperature variations during operation, resolving the contradiction between high-speed optical transmission and alignment stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If optical connection components are made to accommodate temperature variations, then alignment stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connector body into distinct functional portions: a main body and a recessed portion that receives the ferrule. The alignment features (protrusions and grooves) are segmented into specific locations on the connector body that independently constrain different degrees of freedom. This segmentation allows thermal compensation without requiring a completely complex redesign, as each segment performs a specific alignment or constraint function.
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed portion of the connector body acts as an intermediary structure between the ferrule and the external environment. It provides a controlled interface that allows the ferrule to expand or contract thermally while maintaining precise alignment. The alignment features (protrusions and grooves) serve as intermediaries that translate thermal movement into controlled positional adjustments rather than misalignment.
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 solution provides a robust, high-density optical connection that maintains alignment and performance even with temperature changes, reducing stress on the interposer and ferrule, thus ensuring reliable optical connectivity.
Implementation Method 1
the interposer structure and the related connector provide a passively aligned structure having a matched thermal response to maintain proper optical alignment
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are interposer structures having an optical fiber connection and a related fiber optic ferrule that can form a portion of an optical assembly. The interposer structure is useful for transmitting optical signals to/from an integrated circuit that may be attached to the interposer. Specifically, the interposer structure and the related ferrule of the optical connector provide a passively aligned structure having a matched thermal response to maintain a suitable optical connection between the devices over a range of temperatures.