Integrated Optical Receptacle Connector for Lower-Complexity Module Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems face challenges in efficiently incorporating light generation components due to the need for multiple components and optical fibers, leading to increased complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
An optical receptacle connector system that includes a receptacle housing with contact and optical cavities, allowing for the electrical connection of optical module circuit boards and the reception of optical signals through ferrules and optical cables, thereby simplifying the integration of light generation components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple components and optical fibers are used to transmit light between source-component and end-component, then optical signal transmission is achieved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the optical connector and electrical connector into a single integrated receptacle assembly. The receptacle housing simultaneously receives both the optical module circuit board (for electrical connections) and the optical fiber connector (for optical signal transmission), eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable optical signal transmission
2Reliability
If multiple components and optical fibers are used to transmit light between source-component and end-component, then optical signal transmission is achieved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the optical connector and electrical connector into a single integrated receptacle assembly. The receptacle housing simultaneously receives both the optical module circuit board (for electrical connections) and the optical fiber connector (for optical signal transmission), eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable optical signal transmission
3Adaptability or versatility
If light generation components are incorporated into the communication system, then optical communication is enabled, but the number of required components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle assembly is designed as a multi-functional unit that simultaneously provides electrical power delivery through contacts to the optical module circuit board and optical signal reception through the optical connector. This universal design enables optical communication capability while minimizing the total number of components required in the system
Data Source
AI summary
An optical receptacle connector includes a receptacle housing defining a contact cavity, an optical cavity, and a card slot at a front of the receptacle housing configured to receive an edge of an optical module circuit board. A contact assembly having receptacle contacts is received in the contact cavity and extend into the card slot to supply power to the pluggable optical generator module to operate a light source. The optical receptacle connector includes a receive optical connector coupled to the receptacle housing having a ferrule holding at least one optical fiber configured to be mated with a supply optical connector of the pluggable optical generator module to receive optical signals from the supply optical connector.