Optical Transceiver Receptacle Insulating Ring ESD Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can flow through metal receptacles in optical transceiver modules, potentially damaging components like laser diodes due to the lack of effective insulation, leading to instability and potential circuit loss.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an insulating ring between metal holders in the receptacle, which forms a recess with protrusions and coupling bumps for secure mechanical connection, preventing ESD from propagating to sensitive components by using a plastic insulating material that provides electrical insulation and thermal expansion accommodation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a metal receptacle is used for optical coupling, then coupling capability is improved, but electrostatic discharge (ESD) can flow through the receptacle and damage sensitive components
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle is divided into multiple holders (first holder, second holder, third holder) that are coupled together. This segmentation allows the insertion of insulating materials between the holders, breaking the continuous metal path while maintaining the mechanical coupling structure and optical alignment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
An insulating material is introduced as an intermediary component between the metal holders in the receptacle. This insulating material blocks ESD from propagating through the receptacle while allowing the holders to be mechanically coupled together, thus protecting sensitive components without sacrificing coupling capability.
2Reliability
If an insulating material is added between holders to block ESD, then protection from ESD is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating material is integrated into the existing holder structure by coupling it between the holders. The insulating material serves multiple functions: it provides electrical insulation to block ESD, maintains mechanical coupling between holders, and preserves optical alignment. This merging approach adds minimal complexity while achieving ESD protection.
3Strength
If multiple holders are coupled together in the receptacle, then coupling ability is enhanced, but assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle is segmented into multiple holders that can be assembled separately and then coupled together. This segmentation allows for modular assembly, where each holder can be prepared independently and then joined using standardized coupling interfaces, reducing overall assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The holders are designed with universal coupling interfaces that can accommodate different insulating materials and configurations. The coupling mechanism serves multiple functions: mechanical connection, electrical isolation support, and optical alignment maintenance, simplifying the assembly process across different implementations.
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
Effectively blocks ESD, ensuring stable operation of optical transceiver modules by redirecting electrical discharges away from critical components, enhancing coupling ability and simplifying assembly while reducing defects and costs.
Implementation Method 1
an insulating ring disposed between the first holder and the second holder
Implementation Method 2
a mechanical connection is used for coupling the metal and the insulating material, e.g., a ring-type mechanical connection
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module includes a case including an optical filter, a receptacle coupled to the case, an optical receiver, and an optical transmitter. The receptacle includes a recess formed along an outer circumferential surface thereof. The recess may be formed by a first side wall and a second side wall which face each other and a bottom surface coupling the first side wall to the second side wall. Further, at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall may include an insulating material.