Pluggable Multifiber Connector Module for High-Density VSFF Breakout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic network systems face challenges in achieving high density, ease of installation, and compatibility with legacy equipment, particularly in data centers where space is limited and fiber connections need to be upgraded.
Innovation Solution
A pluggable multifiber connector module that converts a single multifiber cable plug into multiple very small form factor (VSFF) connector units, which can be plugged into a VSFF adapter, enabling simultaneous breakout of fiber paths among the VSFF receptacles through a fiber breakout assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional fiber optic cassettes are used, then compatibility with legacy equipment is maintained, but fiber connection density is low and floor space consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments a single multifiber cable connection into multiple individual VSFF connector units (e.g., 8x LC connectors from one MPO connector). This segmentation allows each fiber to be individually accessed and connected through compact VSFF interfaces, dramatically increasing the number of fiber connections per unit area while maintaining compatibility with legacy equipment through the multifiber plug interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple VSFF connector units are integrated within a single pluggable module that accepts one multifiber plug. The module body contains multiple VSFF receptacles, each holding a ferrule, arranged in a compact configuration. This nesting approach allows high-density fiber connections to be achieved within a small footprint, effectively solving the floor space consumption problem.
2Quantity of substance
If high-density interconnect panels are deployed, then fiber connection density increases, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fiber connection functions into a single pluggable module. Instead of requiring separate connections for each fiber, the module combines multiple VSFF connector units into one integrated unit that can be installed as a single component. This merging reduces installation complexity while maintaining high fiber connection density, as the entire assembly can be plugged in and out as one unit rather than handling multiple individual connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal interface that can accommodate different fiber types and configurations through the standardized VSFF connector design. The module can support various breakout configurations (e.g., 1x8, 1x16) and is compatible with existing VSFF adapters and cables, providing multi-functionality that simplifies deployment across different network scenarios without increasing installation complexity.
3Quantity of substance
If more optical connectors are accommodated in the same footprint, then fiber connection density increases, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates self-aligning features in the VSFF connector design, where the ferrules and receptacles are configured to automatically align during the plugging operation. The module body and connector units include guiding structures and tolerance-compensating mechanisms that ensure proper alignment without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances. This self-service alignment capability allows high-density packaging while maintaining acceptable manufacturing precision levels.
Data Source
AI summary
In a pluggable multifiber connector module comprises, a plurality of VSFF connector units extend forward from a main module body. The main module body defines a breakout chamber and at least one multifiber plug receptacle. A fiber breakout assembly is received in the breakout chamber for making optical connections from the multifiber plug mated with the at least one multifiber plug receptacle to each of the plurality of VSFF connector units, whereby the fiber breakout assembly breaks out fiber paths from the multifiber cable among the plurality of VSFF connector units. The pluggable multifiber connector module is configured to be plugged into a VSFF adapter as a unit such that each of the VSFF connector units mates with a respective VSFF receptacle of the VSFF adapter, whereby via a single plug-in action, the pluggable multifiber connector module can break out fiber paths from the multifiber cable among the VSFF receptacles.