Optical Device Rod-Like Reinforcing Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional ultrasmall transceivers, such as the optical I/O core, occupy too much space for flexible PCB design in optical interconnection between ICs, hindering the increase in transceiver density for high-frequency signal transmission.

Innovation Solution

An optical device with an optical fiber, a base, an optical element, an electric element, and a rod-like reinforcing member with an integral structure, where the reinforcing member is fixed into holes in both the optical fiber and the base using an adhesive layer, allowing for a compact and high-strength transceiver design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional ultrasmall transceivers (optical I/O core) are used, then optical interconnection between ICs is enabled, but the transceiver occupies too much space for flexible PCB design

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovePCB design flexibilityVSAvoidtransceiver footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the optical fiber and base into a single integrated unit by forming a hole through both components and filling it with a reinforcing member. This integration eliminates the need for separate mounting structures, reducing the overall transceiver footprint while maintaining PCB design flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The reinforcing member is nested within the hole formed in the optical fiber and base, creating a compact hierarchical structure. The adhesive layer further nests within the gap between the reinforcing member and hole wall, maximizing space utilization and minimizing the transceiver's external dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Quantity of substance

If the transceiver is downsized for increased density, then transceiver density increases, but mechanical strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransceiver densityVSAvoidmechanical strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a composite structure combining the optical fiber, base, reinforcing member, and adhesive layer. Each material is selected for its specific properties: the optical fiber for optical transmission, the base for structural support, the reinforcing member for mechanical strength, and the adhesive for bonding. This composite approach achieves both downsizing and maintained strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The reinforcing member has a rod-like shape that provides structural integrity while fitting within the cylindrical hole. The curved/round geometry distributes stress more effectively than angular shapes, maintaining mechanical strength in the compactized transceiver structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Area of stationary object

If the transceiver is downsized, then space is saved, but structural integrity and mechanical strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransceiver areaVSAvoidstructural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The hole is pre-formed in both the optical fiber and base before assembly, and the reinforcing member is prepared in advance. This preliminary preparation ensures that the structural reinforcement is integrated into the design from the outset, maintaining structural integrity while achieving the desired compact size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The adhesive layer acts as an intermediary between the reinforcing member and the hole wall, ensuring strong bonding and structural integrity. This intermediate substance fills gaps and creates a unified structure, preventing separation and maintaining stability in the downsized transceiver.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 configuration effectively downsizes the transceiver while maintaining mechanical strength and enabling flexible PCB design for increased transceiver density in high-frequency signal transmission.

Implementation Method 1

an adhesive layer disposed between the reinforcing member and the first hole so as to fix the reinforcing member into the first hole

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS11977265B2Optical device
Publication Date: 2024.05.07 NIPPON TELEGRAPH & TELEPHONE CORP
  • US11977265B2 patent drawing
  • US11977265B2 patent drawing
  • US11977265B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical element that is optically coupled to light inlet/outlet ends of an optical fiber is disposed on a base placed near the light inlet/outlet ends of the optical fiber. Moreover, a rod-like reinforcing member has an integral structure fixed into a first hole formed in the optical fiber and a second hole formed in the base 102.