Optical Connector with 90-Degree Reflector for Transceiver Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
In optical communication systems, existing modular opto-electronic transceiver modules face challenges in efficiently coupling optical fibers with opto-electronic devices due to the need for precise alignment and redirection of optical signals, particularly when a 90-degree turn is involved, which can lead to issues with signal reflection and alignment during manufacturing and operation.
Innovation Solution
A connection system comprising a plug portion with a reflector that redirects light between an optical fiber and an opto-electronic device, utilizing a reflector positioned between the optical fiber and the plug optical port region, and a receptacle portion with opto-electronic devices aligned with the plug optical port axis, allowing for efficient optical signal transmission and reception by redirecting light at 90-degree angles using total internal reflection mirrors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a 90-degree turn is introduced in the optical signal path using a mirror or reflective element, then the optical fiber can be coupled to an opto-electronic device mounted on a circuit board oriented perpendicular to the fiber axis, but this introduces issues with signal reflection and alignment precision during manufacturing and operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized optical connector as an intermediary component between the optical fiber and the opto-electronic device. This connector includes a ferrule with a precision-machined bore that receives and precisely positions the optical fiber, and a mounting structure with a precision-machined recess that receives and precisely positions the opto-electronic device. The connector body provides precise geometric relationships between these features, ensuring accurate alignment without requiring complex mirror adjustments during manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-establishes precise alignment features during connector manufacturing. The ferrule bore, mounting recess, and connector body features are precision-machined with tight tolerances to ensure correct optical alignment before the actual coupling operation. This preliminary precision work eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures during field installation or manufacturing assembly, directly addressing the alignment precision issue.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mirror or reflective element is used to redirect optical signals at 90 degrees, then the circuit board can be oriented perpendicular to the optical fiber axis, but this increases the complexity of the optical path and potential for signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of the ferrule, mounting structure, and alignment features into a single integrated optical connector assembly. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate mirror components and complex optical path arrangements, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the 90-degree coupling capability between the optical fiber and circuit board.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical mirror-based optical redirection system with a precision-machined geometric structure. The connector body features (bore, recess, and their spatial relationships) provide the necessary 90-degree optical path change through their precise geometry alone, eliminating moving mirrors and complex optical components, thereby reducing device complexity and potential points of failure.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment features are incorporated into the optical connector to improve alignment accuracy, then manufacturing and operation alignment is enhanced, but this increases the complexity and cost of the connector design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the alignment function into distinct, modular features: the ferrule with its precision bore for fiber positioning, the mounting structure with its precision recess for device positioning, and the connector body with its precisely spaced features. Each segment handles a specific aspect of alignment, making the overall system more manageable and manufacturable despite the high precision requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves precise alignment through carefully controlled geometric parameters and tolerances in the connector features. By optimizing the dimensions, positions, and tolerances of the ferrule bore, mounting recess, and connector body features, the design achieves high alignment accuracy while keeping the overall structure relatively simple and manufacturable.
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 ensures precise optical alignment and efficient signal transmission and reception, reducing undesirable reflections and facilitating manufacturing alignment, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of optical communication in modular transceiver systems.
Implementation Method 1
redirecting light at 90-degree angles using total internal reflection mirrors
Implementation Method 2
a reflector in the plug portion can redirect light between an end of an optical fiber in the plug portion and an opto-electronic device
Data Source
AI summary
A connection system and method in which, when a plug portion is mated with a receptacle portion, a reflector in the plug portion can redirect optical signals between an end of an optical fiber in the plug portion and an opto-electronic device, such as a light source or light receiver, in the receptacle portion.