Optical Communication Module Size Reduction via Path Bending
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single-core bidirectional optical communication modules and connectors face challenges in size reduction and assembly complexity due to orthogonal arrangement of light-emitting and light-receiving elements, and the need for precise positioning of optical filters, which increases manufacturing difficulty and thermal stress risks.
Innovation Solution
A single-core bidirectional optical communication module design featuring optical elements with parallel axes, an optical path changing component formed of resin that twice bends the optical path of the second signal by 90 degrees, and an optical filter mounted directly on this component to simplify assembly and reduce size, while using a fixing component to manage thermal expansion differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the light-emitting element and light-receiving element are arranged orthogonally, then bidirectional optical communication can be achieved, but the module size increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from orthogonal arrangement (requiring three-dimensional space) to parallel arrangement on the same plane (two-dimensional arrangement). The optical path changing component folds the optical path within the planar space, allowing bidirectional communication without increasing module volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical path changing component contains multiple optical path folding functions within a single integrated structure. The optical filter is mounted directly on this component, creating a nested arrangement where multiple functions are consolidated in one location, reducing overall module size.
2Reliability
If the optical filter is disposed at a predetermined position in predetermined space, then optical signal separation is achieved, but a dedicated component is required and manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical filter is merged with the optical path changing component by mounting it directly on the component. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated components and complex positioning mechanisms, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining optical signal separation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical path changing component serves multiple functions: it changes the optical path direction and provides a mounting substrate for the optical filter. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies assembly.
3Ease of manufacture
If the optical filter is bonded to the optical path changing component, then assembly is simplified, but the optical filter may be destroyed due to thermal expansion differences
Solution Approach 1:
An adhesive layer is introduced as an intermediary between the optical filter and the optical path changing component. This adhesive layer acts as a buffer that accommodates thermal expansion differences between the glass optical filter and the resin component, preventing filter destruction while maintaining assembly simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the bonding method from direct rigid bonding to adhesive bonding with a thick enough layer to provide thermal expansion buffer. This parameter change in the bonding approach allows both assembly simplicity and filter durability to be achieved.
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 design allows for a compact module assembly within standard optical connector housings, simplifies the positioning process, reduces module size, and prevents optical filter damage from thermal stress, enhancing manufacturing ease and optical coupling efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an optical filter transmitting light of emission wavelength and blocking light of reception wavelength is used as the optical wavelength filter
Implementation Method 2
The optical path changing component and the optical filter twice bend an optical path of the second optical signal by 90° every time
Data Source
AI summary
A single-core bidirectional optical communication module and a single-core bidirectional optical communication connector are provided which can decrease in size without greatly changing the structure of the past optical connector housing. An optical communication module 1 includes an optical transceiver circuit unit 21 in which a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element are arranged in parallel and an optical path changing component 25 having a structure in which the attachment and detachment direction of an optical fiber cable is perpendicular to the optical transceiver circuit unit 21. An optical communication connector 2 includes a single-core bidirectional optical communication module 1 and an optical connector housing3 that houses the single-core bidirectional optical communication module 1 so that the optical axis of the optical fiber cable is perpendicular to the optical transceiver circuit unit 21.