Tilted Optical Axis Connector for PCB Miniaturization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing optical transceiver systems face limitations in design flexibility and miniaturization due to the fixed parallel alignment of optical axes with the circuit board, restricting the degree of freedom in optical connector placement and hindering board miniaturization.
Innovation Solution
An optical connector design that allows for a tilted optical axis alignment with respect to the board, utilizing a connector body with an integrated optical axis-converting part and a fixing member that includes elastic engaging pieces and a beam part for secure attachment and detachment, enabling precise positioning and improved design freedom.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the optical axis is made parallel to the surface direction of the circuit board, then the optical connector can be easily mounted, but the degree of freedom in designing the optical connecting path and mounting position is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical axis orientation from being parallel to the board surface to being tilted at a specific angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the board surface. This dimensional change in orientation allows the connector to be mounted in different positions and orientations on the board, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in designing the optical connecting path while maintaining ease of mounting through the tilted configuration.
2Ease of manufacture
If the optical connector is mounted with the optical axis parallel to the board surface, then the mounting process is simple, but the board cannot be miniaturized
Solution Approach 1:
By tilting the optical axis at a specific angle relative to the board surface, the patent enables more compact arrangement of optical components and connections. This angular configuration allows the optical path to be routed more efficiently within limited space, facilitating board miniaturization while keeping the mounting process straightforward through the standardized tilted connector design.
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixed parallel alignment structure is used for the optical connector, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the positioning accuracy and long-term stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tilted optical axis configuration with a specific angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the board surface, transforming the alignment parameter from parallel (0 degrees) to tilted. This parameter change enables more precise positioning of the optical connector while maintaining ease of manufacture through the standardized angular configuration. The tilted structure allows for better alignment tolerance and long-term positioning stability.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connector according to the present invention including a connector body mounted on an optical module mounted on a circuit board, and a connector fixing member for pressing the connector body against the optical module. The connector fixing member can be engaged/disengaged with/from the circuit board, and thus the connector body can be attached/detached to/from the optical module.