Stackable Fiber Optic Transceiver Modules With Interlocking Power Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber optic transmitter and receiver modules are cumbersome to deploy and face challenges in power distribution when multiple instances are used in a fiber optic transport system.
Innovation Solution
The development of stackable fiber optic transmitter/receiver modules with interlocking structures and power interfaces allows for efficient deployment and power distribution, enabling modules to be easily stacked and connected via magnetic interconnects, with power passing through one module to others in the stack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional fiber optic transmitter and receiver modules are deployed in multiple instances, then the fiber optic transport system can handle increased traffic capacity, but the deployment becomes unduly cumbersome and power distribution becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple transmitter/receiver modules into a single integrated apparatus with a common housing. Multiple transmitter modules and receiver modules are housed together and share common power interfaces and control circuits, transforming what would be separate deployment units into a unified deployable entity that simplifies installation while maintaining the capability to handle increased traffic capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated apparatus serves multiple functions simultaneously - it houses both transmitter and receiver modules, provides common power distribution to all modules through shared power interfaces, and enables coordinated operation of multiple optical channels. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate deployment and power management for each individual module
2Quantity of substance
If multiple instances of fiber optic transmitter/receiver modules are deployed, then system capacity increases, but power distribution between modules becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power distribution systems of multiple modules into a single integrated power management architecture. Common power interfaces and power distribution circuits are shared across all transmitter and receiver modules within the apparatus, enabling efficient power allocation and eliminating the complexity of managing separate power supplies for each module
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces common power interfaces and power distribution circuits as intermediary elements that mediate between the external power source and multiple internal modules. These intermediary power management components facilitate efficient power transfer and distribution to all modules through standardized interfaces, simplifying the power distribution architecture
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a first transmitter/receiver module having a housing defining a longitudinal axis and with opposed first and second longitudinal sides extending along the longitudinal axis. The housing includes a first interlocking structure disposed along the first longitudinal side and having a first power interface, a second interlocking structure disposed along the second longitudinal side and having a second power interface, and first and second signal connectors positioned at respective first and second ends of the housing. The first transmitter/receiver module is configured to assume a mated condition in stacked coupled relation with one or more additional transmitter/receiver modules through cooperative engagement of at least one of the first and second interlocking structures of the first transmitter/receiver module with corresponding complementary interlocking structure arranged on a longitudinal side of a housing of one of the additional transmitter/receiver modules.