Integrated Optical Module Layout for 15 mm Transceiver Width
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical transceivers, particularly those following CFP2 standards, face challenges in achieving a width of less than 15 mm due to the separate housing of modulators and optical receivers, which hinders further size reduction in high-capacity optical communication systems.
Innovation Solution
The optical module integrates a laser device, wavelength detector, modulator, coherent mixer, photoelectric element, and transimpedance amplifier within a single, airtight casing, with optimized component arrangements and structures such as turning modulators and parallel alignment of optical axes to achieve a compact design, allowing for a width of 15 mm or less.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If optical transceivers follow CFP2 standards with separate housing of modulators and optical receivers, then reliability and functionality are maintained, but device size cannot be reduced below 15 mm width
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the modulator and optical receiver into a single integrated housing structure, eliminating the need for separate housings. The modulator and optical receiver are mounted within the same casing, with their optical axes aligned to enable compact integration while maintaining functionality. This merging approach directly resolves the contradiction by reducing device size through integration without compromising the separate functional requirements.
2Volume of moving object
If modulator and optical receiver are integrated in single casing, then device size is reduced to 15 mm width, but manufacturing and alignment precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary alignment features directly into the housing structure, including alignment marks and positioning protrusions that pre-establish the correct optical axis alignment between the modulator and optical receiver. These features are built into the housing during manufacturing, enabling precise alignment to be achieved as part of the housing fabrication process itself, rather than requiring separate, complex alignment procedures after assembly.
3Volume of moving object
If component density is increased to achieve smaller width, then device compactness is improved, but heat dissipation and signal interference challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality differentiation within the housing structure by providing thermal isolation for the laser device (separating it from other components to manage its specific heat generation), while allowing closer integration of other components. The housing structure is designed with localized thermal management features and signal shielding in specific areas where heat and interference are most critical, rather than applying uniform spacing throughout. This enables high component density overall while managing local harmful effects.
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 enables the realization of a small-sized optical transceiver that meets next-generation QSFP-DD standards, with a width of 15 mm or less and a height of 6.5 mm or less, enhancing the compactness and efficiency of optical communication systems.
Implementation Method 1
a laser device to output a laser light beam
Implementation Method 2
a wavelength detector to which the laser light beam that is output from the laser device is input and that is for detecting a wavelength of the input laser light beam
Implementation Method 3
a modulator to modulate the laser light beam and generate a modulated light beam
Implementation Method 4
a photoelectric element to convert the processed signal light beam into a current signal
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module includes: a laser device; a wavelength detector; a modulator; a modulator driver; a coherent mixer; a photoelectric element; a transimpedance amplifier; and a casing. Further, the laser device is arranged such that the laser device outputs a laser light beam in a direction opposite to a side on which the optical output unit is arranged in the casing.