Multi-lens Optical Component for Hermetic Sealing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
High-speed fiber optic networks face challenges in reducing the size and production costs of hermetically sealed optoelectronic assemblies while maintaining performance, due to limited space and increased complexity with current ferrule assemblies and sealing structures, which also affect RF signal transmission and optical signal focus.
Innovation Solution
An optical component with a housing defining a cavity and a lens array on an optically transmissive portion, which simplifies production processes, reduces material costs, and decreases the size of hermetically sealed portions by integrating lenses and window seals, allowing for efficient optical signal transmission and focus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hermetically sealed ferrule assemblies are used to protect optoelectronic components, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the window seal and lens array into a single integrated component. The lens array is directly mounted on the window seal structure, eliminating the need for separate sealing and optical mounting operations. This merging reduces assembly complexity while maintaining hermetic sealing integrity and optical performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The window seal structure serves multiple functions: it provides hermetic sealing, supports the lens array, and acts as part of the optical path. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall assembly while maintaining reliability.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional separate component assemblies are used, then ease of manufacture is maintained, but production cost and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the lens array mounting directly onto the window seal, the patent reduces the number of discrete assembly steps. The lens array is positioned and secured in a single operation during window seal installation, rather than requiring separate mounting steps, thereby improving assembly efficiency without complicating manufacturing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete components are assembled, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of lens array and window seal into a single compact structure reduces the overall volume required for these components. The combined structure eliminates gaps and interfaces between separate parts, achieving space efficiency while maintaining the functional adaptability of the optical system.
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 optical component facilitates cost-effective production of multi-channel optoelectronic subassemblies with improved RF performance and optical signal handling, reducing unsuitable component production and increasing the efficiency of fiber optic network data transfer.
Implementation Method 1
a lens array having a plurality of lenses on an optically transmissive portion of the housing
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure generally relates to high-speed fiber optic networks that use light signals to transmit data over a network. The disclosed subject matter includes devices and methods relating to multi-lens optical components and/or optoelectronic subassemblies. In some aspects, devices and methods relate to an optical component including a housing defining a cavity and a lens array having a plurality of lenses on an optically transmissive portion of the housing. In some aspects, devices and methods relate to an optical component including a substrate; and a lens array on the substrate, the lens array having a plurality of discrete lenses.