Optical Module Multi-Directional Shielding Strip

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Solution Overview

Problem

Optical modules in optical communication systems generate electromagnetic interference (EMI) due to electromagnetic waves dissipating from electronic components, which can interfere with other electronic equipment, necessitating an effective electromagnetic shielding solution.

Innovation Solution

The optical module incorporates a shielding strip on the junction of its upper and lower optical-port parts, extending in multiple directions to prevent electromagnetic waves from escaping, and is secured by fixing grooves for the optical-fiber connector, enhancing the electromagnetic shielding effect.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If electronic components are used to implement optical-to-electrical and electrical-to-optical conversion functions, then the optical module can perform its core functions, but electromagnetic waves are generated that cause electromagnetic interference to other electronic equipment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical-to-electrical and electrical-to-optical conversion functionVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A shielding structure is introduced as an intermediary element between the electronic components and the external environment. The shielding structure includes a shielding cavity that contains the electronic components and a shielding wall that blocks electromagnetic waves, allowing the optical module to maintain its conversion functions while preventing EMI from affecting other equipment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The optical module is divided into distinct functional zones: an optical component area and an electronic component area separated by a shielding structure. This segmentation isolates the electromagnetic interference generated by electronic components from affecting external equipment, while maintaining the necessary optical-to-electrical and electrical-to-optical conversion functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Object-generated harmful factors

If electromagnetic shielding structures are added to prevent electromagnetic waves from escaping, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic interferenceVSAvoidshielding structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shielding structure is merged with the housing of the optical module, integrating the shielding function into the existing structural framework. The shielding cavity and shielding wall are formed as integral parts of the housing design, eliminating the need for separate shielding components and reducing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The housing structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical protection for the internal components, defines the external dimensions of the module, and simultaneously acts as the electromagnetic shielding structure. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall device design

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

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 reduces electromagnetic interference, ensuring reliable operation and signal integrity by containing electromagnetic waves within the optical module, thereby protecting adjacent equipment from interference.

Implementation Method 1

a first shielding strip is disposed on a junction of the upper optical-port part and the lower optical-port part, and extends in multiple directions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic shielding: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS11867960B2Optical module
Publication Date: 2024.01.09 LIGENT (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD
  • US11867960B2 patent drawing
  • US11867960B2 patent drawing
  • US11867960B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an optical module, including: an upper shell including an upper optical-port part, where a first fixing groove is disposed on top of the upper optical-port part; a lower shell including a lower optical-port part, where the lower optical-port part fits and is connected to the upper optical-port part, and a second fixing groove is disposed on top of the lower optical-port part; and an optical-fiber connector with one side clamped in the first fixing groove and the other side clamped in the second fixing groove; where a first shielding strip is disposed on a junction of the upper optical-port part and the lower optical-port part, and extends in multiple directions. In the optical module provided in the present disclosure, electromagnetic shielding is implemented at an optical port of the optical module in multiple directions, thereby improving an electromagnetic shielding effect of the optical module.