Multi-Channel Parallel Optical Module for Long-Distance Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high-speed optical modules face challenges in achieving a balance between miniaturization and high speed, with most having high costs and complex connections, and there is a lack of commercially available modules for long-distance parallel optical transmission beyond 2 km.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel, parallel transmission SFP optical module is designed with four transmitter optical subassemblies and a mechanical transfer fiber connector, allowing for quad-channel SFP interface and single-mode transmission at 40 Gb/sec over 10 km, using TO-38 packages and Fabry Perot or DFB laser diodes, with fiber connectors connected to fiber stubs for simplified assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If multiple optical modules are combined to increase speed and processing capacity, then the transmission speed and capacity are improved, but the equipment size increases and connections become more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges four separate optical transmitter channels into a single integrated SFP optical module chassis, allowing quad-channel parallel transmission (40 Gb/sec) while maintaining a compact form factor. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate modules and their complex interconnections, directly resolving the contradiction between achieving high transmission speed and maintaining simple connections.
2Productivity
If multiple optical modules are combined to increase speed and processing capacity, then the transmission speed and capacity are improved, but the equipment size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates four optical transmitter channels into a single SFP optical module chassis that maintains the standard SFP form factor size. This merging of multiple channels into one compact unit achieves high processing capacity (40 Gb/sec) without increasing the equipment volume, as the integrated chassis occupies the same space as a single traditional module.
3Speed
If conventional high speed optical modules are used, then high speed transmission is achieved, but the cost is high and miniaturization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical transmitter into four independent but parallel channels within a single SFP chassis, each channel using standard TO-38 packaged laser diodes. This segmentation allows for modular assembly and standard component reuse, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while achieving 40 Gb/sec transmission speed through parallel operation of the four channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines four optical transmitter channels into a single SFP optical module chassis, consolidating components that would otherwise require separate modules. This merging reduces the total number of components, simplifies assembly, and lowers overall manufacturing cost while maintaining high-speed transmission capability.
4Speed
If conventional high speed optical modules are used, then high speed transmission is achieved, but the balance of miniaturization and high speed is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges four optical transmitter channels into a single SFP optical module chassis that maintains the standard SFP form factor dimensions. This integration achieves 40 Gb/sec transmission speed without increasing the module size, as the combined chassis occupies the same volume as a single traditional module, thus optimizing the balance between miniaturization and high speed.
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 solution provides a high-speed, large-capacity, small-volume, and lightweight optical module with extended transmission distance, addressing the limitations of existing modules by enabling efficient and cost-effective long-distance parallel transmission.
Implementation Method 1
each comprising a transistor outline (TO; e.g., TO-38) package or housing, and a Fabry Perot (FP) or diffusion feedback (DFB) laser diode configured to transmit signals
Implementation Method 2
there is demand for optical modules with a transmission distance that ranges from hundreds of meters to 10 km or more
Data Source
AI summary
A high speed optical module, and in particular, a multi-channel, single-mode, parallel transmission optical module in the field of optical communication is disclosed. The optical module includes a chassis, a first transmitter optical subassembly (TOSA), a second transmitter optical subassembly (TOSA), a third transmitter optical subassembly (TOSA), a fourth transmitter optical subassembly (TOSA) and a MT fiber connector. The TOSA may be a TO-38 TOSA of a 10 G DFB chip or FP chip. With single-mode communication, the optical module provides a transmission distance over 10 kilometers. In addition, to make coupling single-mode fibers easier, a twelve-core MT fiber connector is employed, wherein four fiber connectors are respectively connected to LC standard fiber stubs and the outputs of the TOSAs accordingly. Thus, the optical module further provides high speed and long-distance transmission, large capacity, small volume, and light weight and can be broadly applied to high speed optical communications.