Optical Transceiver Module Narrowing via Parallel PCB Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The transition from GBIC to SFF optical transceiver modules in networking equipment often requires significant layout modifications due to differences in connector types (SC vs. LC) and module sizes, increasing system costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
An optical transceiver module design featuring a housing with two SFF single channel bi-direction modules, each with a printed circuit board and optoelectronic component oriented parallel to the board, allowing for a narrower width and compatibility with existing GBIC module sizes, along with a connector interface with pins arranged in a single row for easy alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If SFF optical transceiver modules are used to increase module density, then the number of modules that can be disposed in the same area increases, but the layout compatibility with existing networking equipment deteriorates due to different connector types and module sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the dimensional orientation of the optical fiber interface by making it parallel to the printed circuit board rather than perpendicular. This dimensional reorientation allows the module to maintain GBIC-compatible footprint while incorporating SFF architecture, resolving the contradiction between increased module density and layout compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal module design that can serve both as a GBIC-compatible interface and an SFF internal architecture. The housing and connector interface are designed to work with existing GBIC sockets while the internal SFF components provide enhanced density, making the module adaptable to both legacy and new systems.
2Length of moving object
If the optical fiber interface orientation is changed to be parallel to the printed circuit board, then the module width is narrowed and more modules can be disposed in the same area, but the manufacturing and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the module into distinct functional components: the printed circuit board with reception/transmission portions, the optoelectronic component with integrated optical fiber interface, and the housing with connector interface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining the parallel orientation that reduces width.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the optical fiber interface directly into the optoelectronic component, eliminating the need for separate optical connectors. This integration simplifies assembly by reducing the number of discrete parts while maintaining the parallel orientation that enables narrower module width.
3Quantity of substance
If GBIC optical transceiver modules are replaced with SFF modules, then more modules can be placed in the same area, but significant layout modifications are required increasing system cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal module that maintains external GBIC compatibility while incorporating internal SFF architecture. The housing and connector interface are designed to fit existing GBIC sockets, allowing replacement without layout modifications, while the internal SFF components enable higher density.
Solution Approach 2:
By reorienting the optical fiber interface to be parallel to the printed circuit board, the patent achieves a dimensional arrangement that fits within the original GBIC footprint. This allows SFF modules to replace GBIC modules without requiring changes to the networking equipment layout, eliminating modification costs.
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
Enables the placement of more than twice as many optical transceiver modules in the same area without modifying the equipment layout, reducing system costs and simplifying the connection process while maintaining compatibility with existing GBIC modules.
Implementation Method 1
an optoelectronic component (106) having an optical fiber interface (110), a reception portion (112) and a transmission portion (114)
Data Source
AI summary
An optical transceiver module including a housing and a plurality of optical transceiver devices is provided. The housing has a connector portion disposed at an end thereof. The connector portion includes two receptacles formed thereon. The optical transceiver devices are disposed in the housing, corresponding to the receptacles. Each one of the optical transceiver devices includes a printed circuit board, an optoelectronic component and a connecting interface. The printed circuit board is disposed substantially perpendicular to a bottom surface of the housing. The optoelectronic component has an optical fiber interface, a reception portion and a transmission portion. The orientation of the optical fiber interface, the orientation of the reception portion and the orientation of the transmission portion are parallel to the printed circuit board.