Rigid-Plane Optical Jumper for Pluggable Transceivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pluggable optical transceiver modules are inefficient in terms of cost, electrical signal integrity, thermal management, PCB area utilization, faceplate area utilization, and optical cable management due to the use of fiber jumpers, which introduce optical loss, space inefficiencies, and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a rigid-plane optical jumper that provides a direct opto-mechanical interface between an external fiber cable and the optical transceiver, eliminating the need for fiber jumpers and ensuring precise alignment for efficient optical signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fiber jumpers are used to connect optical transceivers, then flexibility and ease of installation are improved, but optical loss increases and link budget deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the fiber jumper component from the optical connection system. By integrating the optical connection directly into the transceiver module through a rigid-plane waveguide structure, the patent removes the intermediate fiber jumper that causes optical loss, while maintaining ease of installation through direct integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the optical connection function directly into the transceiver module by integrating a rigid-plane waveguide structure with the optical transceiver components. This consolidation eliminates separate fiber jumper connections and reduces the number of optical interfaces, thereby reducing optical loss while simplifying the overall system
2Adaptability or versatility
If fiber jumpers are used for optical connections, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and space utilization worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (optical transmission, connection, and alignment) into a single integrated rigid-plane waveguide structure within the transceiver module. This integration reduces device complexity by eliminating separate fiber jumpers and alignment mechanisms, while maintaining adaptability through standardized interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid-plane waveguide structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides optical signal transmission, mechanical support, and precise alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby simplifying the overall system while maintaining connection flexibility
3Ease of operation
If fiber jumpers are used to connect optical transceivers, then ease of installation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical connection functionality directly into the transceiver module through integration of the rigid-plane waveguide structure. This eliminates the need for separate fiber jumper components and their associated termination processes, reducing manufacturing steps and costs while maintaining ease of installation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the fiber jumper component from the system, eliminating the need for fiber termination, connector assembly, and associated labor costs. The optical connection is achieved directly through the integrated rigid-plane waveguide, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
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
This solution improves link budget by reducing optical losses associated with additional connector interfaces, enhances cost-effectiveness, and optimizes space utilization, while maintaining high signal integrity and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The rigid-plane optical jumper includes a first waveguide extending from the cable connector interface portion to the optical socket interface portion
Data Source
AI summary
Pluggable optical transceiver modules are described herein that are specifically configured to preclude use of fiber jumpers inside of the module. Pluggable optical transceiver modules implement a rigid-plane jumper that provides an opto-mechanical interface between an external fiber cable (attached to the pluggable optical transceiver module) and the optical transceiver in a manner that does not require the fiber jumper, while ensuring reduced optical loss. In some embodiments one or more rigid waveguide plates act as an opto-mechanical coupling between the external fiber cable and on-board opto-electrical components (e.g., optical transceiver). For example, the rigid waveguide plates are coupled to a faceplate connector, and a CWDM block that is in turn optically coupled to the optical socket. In some embodiments, the CWDM block is directly attached to the rigid waveguide plates. In some embodiments, the CWDM block is indirectly attached to the rigid waveguide plates using a half periscope.