Micro-Integratable Tunable Laser Assembly Compact Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to reduce the form factor of Integratable Tunable Laser Assemblies (ITLA) while maintaining full functionality, particularly in optical internetworking technologies.
Innovation Solution
A micro integratable tunable laser assembly (m-ITLA) is developed, comprising an electrical interface, a tunable laser module, and a control unit, with a compact design of 37 mm or less in length and 20 mm or less in width, utilizing a printed circuit board assembly retained between two plates with projections for secure mounting and heat dissipation, and employing a control unit with registers for controlling the laser module based on commands from a host via an electrical interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the form factor of ITLA is reduced, then the device size is minimized, but the functionality and heat dissipation capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into two functional modules: a laser module and a control unit. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently - the laser module can be designed for compactness while the control unit can incorporate heat dissipation structures, resolving the contradiction between small size and reliable heat management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional space efficiently by stacking components vertically. The laser module and control unit are arranged in different spatial layers, allowing the device to maintain a small footprint while accommodating all necessary functional elements and heat dissipation pathways in the vertical dimension.
2Area of stationary object
If the ITLA form factor is reduced, then the printed circuit board area is minimized, but the control and laser functions may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed as a multi-functional module that integrates both control electronics and heat dissipation functions. This universal design allows the same structural element to serve multiple purposes, maintaining full control and laser functions while minimizing the overall printed circuit board area required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the control unit and laser module into a single integrated assembly. By combining these functions into one compact unit, the device achieves full functionality while minimizing the total area occupied on the printed circuit board.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a micro integratable tunable laser assembly (m-ITLA) which includes an electrical interface for interfacing with a host, a tunable laser module for conducting optical communication, and a control unit, for at least controlling operation of the tunable laser module according to information received from the host via the electrical interface. The m-ITLA can have a length of about 37 mm or less and a width of about 20 mm or less.