OSA Connector Block Alignment and Plugability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optoelectronic modules face challenges with alignment issues, hard plug problems, and wiggle performance concerns due to varying optical fiber connector configurations and manufacturing tolerances, which affect the reliability and universality of optical fiber connections.
Innovation Solution
The development of an optical subassembly (OSA) connector block with a monolithic body, featuring a receptacle for optical fiber connectors and a cavity for OSAs, which accommodates different configurations and form factors using adhesives and similar external but dissimilar internal dimensions, ensuring secure and universal optical fiber pluggability and improved wiggle performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional receptacles are defined in the housing of the optoelectronic module, then the module can connect with optical fibers, but alignment issues occur between nose pieces of TOSA/ROSA and the respective optical fiber connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the housing into separate functional components: a connector block with receptacles for optical fiber connectors and a separate mounting structure for TOSA/ROSA. This segmentation allows independent optimization of alignment features in the connector block while maintaining modular assembly, thereby improving alignment accuracy without significantly increasing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector block acts as an intermediary component between the optical fiber connectors and the TOSA/ROSA mounting structure. It incorporates precision alignment features and tolerance compensation mechanisms that mediate the interface between these two subsystems, ensuring accurate alignment while absorbing manufacturing tolerances.
2Reliability
If traditional receptacles are defined in the housing, then optical fiber connection is enabled, but hard plug issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The connector block incorporates tolerance compensation features that dynamically adjust alignment parameters based on manufacturing variations. This includes compliant mounting structures and adjustable alignment mechanisms that adapt to parameter variations, ensuring reliable connections while maintaining ease of plugability.
3Reliability
If traditional receptacles are defined in the housing, then optical fiber connection is enabled, but wiggle performance concerns arise
Solution Approach 1:
The connector block incorporates pre-designed tolerance compensation features and stress relief structures that cushion against misalignment and mechanical stress before they affect the optical connection. This beforehand cushioning prevents wiggle performance issues without requiring complex active stabilization systems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the OSA connector block accommodates OSAs of various configurations, then versatility is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector block is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate multiple OSA configurations through standardized mounting features and adjustable alignment mechanisms. This multi-functionality allows a single connector block design to serve various OSA form factors while maintaining consistent manufacturing tolerances through modular design principles.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical subassembly (“OSA”) connector block that can accommodate OSAs of a variety of different configurations. In one example embodiment, an OSA connector block includes a body. The body of the OSA connector block includes a first end defining a receptacle, and a second end defining a cavity. The receptacle is configured to receive at least a portion of an optical fiber connector. The cavity is configured to receive at least a portion of an OSA.