Shielded Optical Connector Layout for EMI and Crosstalk Isolation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional optical communication systems face challenges in providing small size and low energy consumption while maintaining high bandwidth and transmission speed, exacerbated by signal attenuation and sensitivity to electromagnetic interference and crosstalk in high-frequency environments.

Innovation Solution

An optical communication system with a connector shield that spatially separates pins using metal shields to eliminate electromagnetic interference and reduce crosstalk, featuring a configuration that includes a cage for the optical module and a connector with pins electrically connected to the module, where the shields are disposed on the connector to isolate adjacent pins.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If multiple pins are closely arranged in the connector to reduce size, then the device compactness is improved, but electromagnetic interference and crosstalk between adjacent pins increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector sizeVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a shield structure as an intermediary element positioned between adjacent pins in the connector. This shield acts as a mediator that blocks electromagnetic fields from one pin from interfering with adjacent pins, thereby eliminating the harmful electromagnetic interference while maintaining the compact pin arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the connector structure into segmented sections by introducing shields that spatially separate the pins into distinct zones. Each pin or group of pins is isolated by shields, creating separate electromagnetic compartments. This segmentation prevents electromagnetic coupling between adjacent pins while maintaining overall compactness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Speed

If high-frequency signals are used to increase transmission speed, then the data transmission rate is improved, but signal attenuation and sensitivity to electromagnetic interference increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission rateVSAvoidsignal integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The shield serves as a protective intermediary that shields high-frequency signals from external electromagnetic interference and prevents crosstalk between adjacent signal lines. This mediation maintains signal integrity and reduces attenuation effects, enabling reliable high-speed data transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies electromagnetic shielding in advance before signals are transmitted through the connector. By pre-establishing the shield structure around the pins, the system prepares protective measures against electromagnetic interference and crosstalk that would otherwise affect high-frequency signals during transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Reliability

If shields are added to separate pins to reduce electromagnetic interference, then signal integrity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal integrityVSAvoidconnector structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the shield structure with the existing connector housing or cage, integrating the electromagnetic shielding function into the overall connector assembly rather than adding completely separate components. This merging approach maintains signal integrity while minimizing the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The shield structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electromagnetic shielding, acts as a mechanical support element, and contributes to the overall structural integrity of the connector. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The shielded connector design effectively reduces electromagnetic interference and crosstalk, enhancing signal integrity and efficiency in high-density optical communication systems.

Implementation Method 1

a shield disposed on the connector. The connector includes a plurality of pins electrically connected with an electrical port of the optical module. At least two of the pins are spatially separated from each other by the shield

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic shielding: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS12531378B2Optical communication system with connector shield for elimination of electromagnetic interference
Publication Date: 2026.01.20 GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US12531378B2 patent drawing
  • US12531378B2 patent drawing
  • US12531378B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical communication system includes an optical communication board, a cage disposed on the optical communication board, an optical module disposed in the cage in pluggable manner, a connector disposed on the optical communication board, and a shield disposed on the connector. The connector includes a plurality of pins electrically connected with an electrical port of the optical module. At least two of the pins are spatially separated from each other by the shield.