Bi-directional Optical Transceiver Module Narrow Wavelength Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bi-directional optical transceiver modules struggle to effectively separate optical signals with narrow wavelength bands, especially in environments with varying temperatures, due to the limitations of traditional optical filters.

Innovation Solution

A bi-directional optical transceiver module design that includes a holder with an optical filter and reflector, where the first optical filter is inclined at a smaller angle than the reflector, allowing for improved separation of optical signals by adjusting the angles between the optical axis, filter, and reflector, and optimizing the thickness of the filter to enhance signal separation and manufacturing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a traditional optical filter inclined at 45° is used to separate optical signals, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the signals cannot be effectively separated when the wavelength interval is 60 nm or lower, particularly in temperature environments from −40°C to 85°C

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal separation precisionVSAvoidfilter angle configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the inclination angle parameter of the optical filter from the traditional 45° to a smaller angle (e.g., 10°-30°), and optimizes the thickness parameter of the filter (0.5-1.2 mm). These parameter modifications enable effective signal separation even when the wavelength interval is 60 nm or lower, while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized angle ranges and thickness specifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If the optical filter thickness is increased to improve signal separation, then the separation effectiveness improves, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal separation precisionVSAvoidfilter thickness control
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes the filter thickness parameter to a specific range (0.5-1.2 mm) that achieves effective signal separation without excessive thickness. This optimized parameter range balances performance requirements with manufacturing capabilities, avoiding the need for ultra-precision thickness control while still achieving the desired signal separation effect.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If the optical filter is inclined at a larger angle to simplify the holder design, then the assembly is easier, but the separation of narrow wavelength band signals deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly easeVSAvoidsignal separation precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the inclination angle parameter to a smaller range (10°-30° instead of 45°), which requires more precise holder design and assembly but achieves superior signal separation performance. The patent compensates for the increased assembly precision requirement by providing specific angle specifications and tolerance ranges that guide manufacturing and assembly processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 design effectively separates optical signals with narrow wavelength bands, reduces manufacturing costs, and simplifies the assembly process, while maintaining reliable signal separation even in challenging temperature environments.

Implementation Method 1

a first optical filter configured to reflect the first optical signal, and allow the second optical signal to pass through

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a first optical filter configured to reflect the first optical signal, and allow the second optical signal to pass through

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical filtering: Filter (optical)

Implementation Method 3

a reflector configured to reflect the first optical signal reflected by the first optical filter to the optical receiver side

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS9596032B2Bi-directional optical transceiver module
Publication Date: 2017.03.14 OPTO ELECTRONICS SOLUTIONS CO LTD
  • US9596032B2 patent drawing
  • US9596032B2 patent drawing
  • US9596032B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a bi-directional optical transceiver module, which is capable of effectively separating optical signals even when wavelength bands of a first optical signal output from an optical fiber and a second optical signal output from an optical transmitter are narrow.