Pluggable Optoelectrical Module for Rapid Form Factor Upgrades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Developing new line cards for different form factors in optoelectrical communication systems is expensive and time-consuming, requiring system downtime for upgrades.
Innovation Solution
A system with a pluggable form factor module and optoelectrical connector that allows for the upgrade of components, such as tunable XFP transceivers, without replacing the line card, using a cage to house the module and connector, and including a sensor and alignment tool for optical beam alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If new line cards are developed for different form factors, then system adaptability to different form factors is improved, but manufacturing cost and development time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: the line card platform remains fixed while the transceiver components are segmented into replaceable form factor modules (SFP, XFP, etc.). This allows different form factors to be implemented by swapping modules rather than redesigning the entire line card, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The line card platform is designed with universal interfaces and mounting structures that can accommodate multiple form factor types. The cage and connector system provides a universal mounting mechanism that works with different transceiver form factors, allowing one line card design to support multiple form factors through module replacement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If new line cards are developed for different form factors, then system adaptability to different form factors is improved, but upgrade time and system downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the transceiver into replaceable form factor modules that interface with a fixed line card platform, upgrades are reduced to simple module swap operations. The cage and connector design enables rapid insertion and removal of modules without requiring system shutdown or complex reconfiguration, significantly reducing upgrade time.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple form factor modules can be prepared in advance outside the system. When an upgrade is needed, the pre-prepared module is simply swapped into the cage, eliminating the need for on-site manufacturing or complex installation procedures. The universal interface design ensures compatibility is already established before the upgrade operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If components are upgraded without replacing the line card, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a fixed line card platform and replaceable transceiver modules. The cage provides a standardized mounting structure, and connectors provide standardized electrical and optical interfaces. This segmentation creates a modular architecture where complexity is confined to individual modules rather than the entire system, making the overall system easier to manufacture and maintain despite the added modular complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transceiver module is nested within the cage structure, which itself is mounted on the line card platform. This nested arrangement allows the module to be self-contained with all necessary components (transceiver, connectors, alignment tools) integrated within it, while the cage provides structural support and interface connections to the platform, managing complexity through hierarchical organization.
4Manufacturing precision
If optical alignment tools and sensors are integrated into the module, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tools and sensors are merged with the transceiver module, creating an integrated alignment system. This allows precise optical beam alignment to be achieved through a single integrated component rather than separate alignment mechanisms, improving manufacturing precision while containing complexity within the modular transceiver unit rather than distributing it across the entire line card system.
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 cost-effective and rapid upgrades with reduced downtime by allowing the use of new components without replacing the line card, facilitating the transition to different form factors like SFP and XFP.
Implementation Method 1
a receiver configured to convert optical signals received at the input port into electrical signals
Implementation Method 2
an embedded fiber coupled to the transmitter and configured to transmit the optical signals from the transmitter to the output port of the module
Implementation Method 3
an alignment tool configured to align the optical beam which includes the optical signals transmitted from the embedded fiber for output at the output port
Data Source
AI summary
A system for optoelectrical communication includes a transmitter configured to transmit optical signals. It also includes a pluggable form factor module. The module includes an input port, an output port, and a receiver configured to convert optical signals received at the input port into electrical signals. The system further includes an optoelectrical connector coupled to the module and the transmitter. The connector includes an embedded fiber coupled to the transmitter and configured to transmit the optical signals from the transmitter to the output port of the module. The connector also includes electrical contacts configured to receive the electrical signals from the receiver. The system includes a cage in a pluggable form factor configured to house the module and the connector, wherein the transmitter is positioned outside the cage.