Optical Communication Module Interface Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical communication modules face challenges in adapting to non-standard input/output interfaces and new technologies, leading to increased electric power consumption and loss of cost advantages due to the need for new product platforms and unused interfaces.

Innovation Solution

An optical communication module with a standard outer shape that can switch communication interfaces based on input/output interface information, using storage blocks for I/F information and settings, and control blocks to dynamically set and compare I/F configurations, allowing flexible adaptation to different interfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the optical communication module uses a standardized input/output interface to maintain compatibility and cost advantages, then manufacturing cost and reliability are improved, but adaptability to non-standard interfaces and new technologies deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecompatibilityVSAvoidadaptability to non-standard interfaces
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching capability between multiple input/output interfaces. The optical communication module can switch between a standard interface (for compatibility) and non-standard interfaces (for adaptability) based on the host device's requirements. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the same physical module to serve both standardized and customized communication needs without requiring separate hardware platforms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a new product platform is created to support non-standard interfaces, then adaptability to specific requirements is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to specific interfacesVSAvoidproduct platform complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The optical communication module is designed with multi-functionality to handle both standard and non-standard interfaces through a single unified platform. The module includes interface switching mechanisms that allow it to adapt its communication protocol and pin configuration dynamically, eliminating the need for separate specialized modules for different interface types. This universal design reduces product platform diversity and simplifies manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If unused input/output interfaces are included in the module, then adaptability to various interfaces is improved, but electric power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterface varietyVSAvoidelectric power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic interface selection and switching that activates only the necessary interfaces based on actual communication requirements. The module can detect the host device's interface type and switch accordingly, deactivating unused interfaces to minimize power consumption. This dynamic power management allows the module to maintain interface versatility while avoiding the continuous power overhead of maintaining all interfaces simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8929742B2Optical communication module, and optical communication system in which optical communication module is used
Publication Date: 2015.01.06 FURUKAWA ELECTRIC CO LTD
  • US8929742B2 patent drawing
  • US8929742B2 patent drawing
  • US8929742B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical communication module in which the pin arrangement can be applied flexibly. An optical communication module has an outer shape formed based on normal standards and which is able to communicate with a host-side circuit board, etc. to which it is fitted, via a predetermined communication interface; wherein the optical communication module exchanges input/output I/F information with the circuit board, etc., and the communication interface can be switched to another communication interface based on these input/output I/F information.