JP6101862B2 - Cable clips and cable management structures for use with optoelectric modules - Google Patents

Description

  Embodiments disclosed herein relate to optical components. In particular, some embodiments described herein relate to cable clips and cable management structures that can be used with optoelectric modules.

  Some data transmissions include conversion of optical signals to electrical signals and / or conversion of electrical signals to optical signals. In some applications, this conversion occurs at the circuit board. For example, an optical cable carrying one or more optical signals may be interfaced with an optoelectric module such as a board mounted optical engine. In an optical engine, the optical signals can be transformed from optical signals to electrical signals using an optical receiver. The electrical signal can then be communicated to the destination along an etched copper trace that is integrated into the circuit board. Similarly, electrical signals can be communicated to the board mounted optical engine along the copper trace. In a board mounted optical engine, the electrical signal can be transformed into an optical signal by an optical transmitter. The optical signal can then be further communicated along the same or different optical cable that is interfaced with the optoelectric module. In some board mounted optical engines, the lens assembly may be configured to receive an optical interface, such as a pluggable cable connector. The optical interface generally supports one or more optical cables that communicate optical data to and from the board mounted optical engine. When received by the lens assembly, alignment of the optical interface relative to the lens assembly and retention of the optical interface within the lens assembly can help to ensure proper communication of optical data. However, due to the mechanical load applied to the optical cable and / or plug cable connector, the optical interface is unintentionally disengaged from the lens assembly or between the optical interface and the lens assembly. Misalignment can occur.

  The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve the above disadvantages or that operate only in the environments described above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where some embodiments described herein may be used.

The external view explaining the photoelectric module of an example. Sectional drawing explaining an optoelectric module of an example. The partial exploded view explaining an example optoelectric module. The partial exploded view explaining an example optoelectric module. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example cable clip (clip) that can be mounted on the optoelectric module of FIGS. 1B is a side view illustrating an example cable clip (clip) that can be mounted on the optoelectric module of FIGS. 1 is a front view illustrating an example cable clip (clip) that can be mounted on the optoelectric module of FIGS. The side view explaining the clip of Drawings 2A-2C holding an example connector. The perspective view explaining the clip of Drawings 2A-2C holding the connector of an example. The perspective view explaining the clip holding the connector engaged with an example lens assembly. The side view explaining the clip holding the connector engaged with an example lens assembly. The perspective view explaining a clip provided with an example dust seal. The partial exploded view explaining a clip provided with an example dust seal. The perspective view explaining multi-module mounting of an example. The sectional side view explaining the multi-module mounting of an example.

  An example embodiment includes a cable clip. The cable clip is configured to maintain engagement between the optical interface and the lens assembly included in the optoelectric module. The cable clip includes a front portion, a clip body, a connector holding mechanism, a lens latch, and a release lever. The clip body is connected to the front portion at the clip shoulder. The connector holding mechanism is configured to hold the optical interface and extends from the clip body. The lens latch is disposed at the first end. The lens latch is configured to latch the lens assembly when a portion of the optical interface is received in the lens assembly. The release lever is connected to the front part. The release lever is configured to unlatch the lens latch from the lens assembly in response to an actuation force exceeding a certain threshold magnitude.

  Another example embodiment includes a connector assembly. The connector assembly is configured to be at least partially disposed within the module housing of the optoelectric module. The connector assembly includes a cable clip and a dust seal. The cable clip maintains engagement between the optical interface and the lens assembly when the cable clip is latched, and the connector from the lens assembly when the cable clip is unlatched. Is configured to be disengaged. The cable clip includes a release lever sized with respect to the module housing such that a portion of the release lever protrudes from the module housing when the connector is received by the lens assembly. The release lever is configured to release the latch of the cable clip in response to an actuating force applied to a portion of the release lever protruding from the module housing. The dust seal is configured to at least partially surround the connector and the cable clip. The dust seal is sized to substantially fill the space between the connector and the module opening, and the connector assembly is introduced into the module housing through the module opening.

Another example embodiment includes a cable clip. The cable clip is configured to communicate data over 25 gigabytes per second (G) with a mechanical transfer (MT) connector having 24 optical channels that are configured to communicate 24 channels of data. And is configured to maintain engagement with a lens assembly included in the opto-electric module. The cable clip includes a clip body, a connector holding mechanism, a front portion, a lens latch, and a release lever. The connector holding mechanism is configured to hold the MT connector and extends from the clip body. The front part is attached to the clip body by a clip shoulder. The lens latch is disposed at the first end of the front portion. The lens latch is configured to apply a latching force against the front surface of the lens assembly when the MT connector is received in the lens assembly. The release lever extends from the front portion and is sized to partially protrude from the module housing. The release lever is configured to rotate the front portion in response to an operating force applied to the release lever.

The objects and advantages of this embodiment will be understood and attained by at least the elements, features, and combinations particularly recited in the claims.
It will be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed.

The exemplary embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the accompanying drawings.
Embodiments disclosed herein relate to optical components. In particular, some exemplary embodiments relate to cable clips that can be used in an optoelectric module and some additional structural features that can be included in the optoelectric module.

  One example embodiment includes a cable clip configured to maintain engagement between the connector and the lens assembly of the optical engine. The clip may also disengage the connector from the lens assembly without disassembling the optical engine. The clip includes a front portion, a connector holding mechanism, a lens latch, and a release lever. The connector holding mechanism is configured to hold the connector in a position where the connector is received by the lens assembly. The lens latch is disposed at the first end of the front portion. The lens latch latches the connector into the lens assembly when the connector is received in the lens assembly. The release lever is connected to the front, and a portion of the release lever protrudes from the module housing of the optical engine. The release lever is configured to unlatch the lens latch from the lens assembly in response to an actuating force that exceeds a certain threshold magnitude on a portion of the release lever protruding from the module housing. ing. The application of this actuating force results in pivoting and movement of the front part that releases the latch of the lens latch.

  Reference will now be made to the drawings to describe various aspects of some embodiments. It should be understood that the drawings represent an overview of the embodiments and are not intended to limit the drawings, and that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Unless otherwise noted, like numbers generally refer to like structures throughout the drawings.

  1A-1D show an example optoelectric module 100. Specifically, FIG. 1A shows an external view of the photoelectric module 100. FIG. 1B shows a cross-sectional view of the optoelectric module 100. FIG. 1C shows a partially exploded view of the optoelectric module 100. FIG. 1D shows another partially exploded view of the optoelectric module 100. The optoelectric module 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D includes an optical engine. One example of an optoelectric module 100 is designed for high speed (eg, 25 gigabytes per second (G) or higher) optical interconnects between integrated circuits and / or circuit boards. In addition or alternatively, the optoelectric module 100 may be configured to receive 24 optical channels, each of which may be configured to communicate data.

The optoelectric module 100 may be mounted on a circuit board (not shown) of the host device, and may be configured to communicate data between the host device and a network (not shown), for example. . The optoelectric module 100 may convert an electrical signal into an optical signal representing the electrical signal or vice versa. For example, data in the form of optical signals is communicated from the network to the optoelectric module 100 along the optical cable 102. The components of optoelectric module 100 (described below) may convert the optical signal into an electrical signal that represents the optical signal. The electrical signal is then communicated to the host device. Similarly, the host device communicates electrical signals to the optoelectric module 100. The optoelectric module 100 may convert the electrical signal into an optical signal representing the electrical signal. The optical signal may be communicated through the network along the optical cable 102 to, for example, another optical module.

  The optoelectric module 100 may include a module housing 140. The module housing 140 may generally protect components that are disposed within the module housing 140. In addition, the module housing 140 can dissipate heat. In the illustrated optoelectric module 100, for example, the module housing 140 may include one or more heat dissipation structures 142 that are configured to dissipate heat from the optoelectric module 100. Only one of the heat dissipation structures 142 is labeled in FIGS. In some embodiments, one or more heat dissipation structures may be removably attached to the module housing 140. In addition to or instead of this, the heat dissipation structure 142 may be omitted.

  The module housing 140 also includes a cable path 144 (FIGS. 1A and 1C only) formed between one or more of the heat dissipation structures 142. One or more optical cables (eg, 102) in other opto-electric modules that are positioned proximate to the opto-electric module 100 may be positioned in the cable path 144. Placing optical cables in cable path 144 may prevent or reduce the possibility of tangling or damaging the optical cables. In some embodiments, up to six or more optical cables (each from another optoelectric module) may be placed in the cable path 144. Some additional details of one embodiment comprising multiple optoelectric modules are discussed with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B.

  In some embodiments, the cable path 144 may have a ramp 146 (FIGS. 1A and 1B only). As best shown in FIG. 1B, the optical cable 102 may exit the optoelectric module 100 at an exit height 148A. The exit height 148A may generally correspond to the entrance height 148B where the optical cable of one or more other opto-electric modules enters the cable path 144. The ramp 146 may then gradually increase in height until the ramp 146 intersects the top surface 154 of the module housing 140 (FIGS. 1A and 1B only).

  The inclined portion angle (angle) 150 (FIG. 1B only) may be formed between the outer surface of the inclined portion 146 and the horizontal reference surface 156 (only FIG. 1B). The angle 150 and / or the separation between the optoelectric module 100 and the adjacent optoelectric module may be configured to prevent excessive bending applied to one or more cables. For example, this angle 150 and / or separation may ensure that the maximum allowable bend radius of one or more optical cables that exit the adjacent optoelectric module and enter the cable path 144 at the ramp 146 has not been exceeded. it can.

  In particular, as shown in FIG. 1B, the optical cable 102 may exit the optoelectronic module 100 at a relatively horizontal, ie, 0 degree angle. The optical cable 102 is optionally defined in an upwardly defined (e.g., arbitrarily defined xyz Cartesian coordinate system) by an inclined portion (e.g., inclined portion 146) of an adjacent optical module substantially similar to the optoelectric module 100. In the positive y direction). The adjacent optical module angle 150 may thus support the optical cable 102 so that the optical cable 102 does not exceed the allowable bend radius. Reducing the likelihood that the bend radius will be exceeded may reduce the likelihood that the optical cable 102 will be damaged. The angle 150 may be based on the type of optical fiber included in the optical cable 102 and / or multiple optical cables (eg, 102) or optical fibers that may be placed in the cable path 144.

Referring to FIGS. 1B and 1C, the lens assembly 400, the printed circuit board (PCB) 110, the heat sink 138 and the module board 112 may be disposed within the module housing 140. The lens assembly 400 may be placed on one or more components (not shown) that are mounted on the PCB 110. The heat sink 138 may be configured to transfer heat from one or more components mounted on the PCB 110 to the module housing 140.

  Lens assembly 400 may be configured to receive connector 300. The optical cable 102 can be optically coupled to the connector 300 such that optical signals are communicated between the optical cable 102 and the connector 300. The connector 300 may be optically coupled to the optical cable 102 and may be an interface through which optical signals can be further communicated. For example, the optical signal may be communicated from the optical cable 102 to the connector 300 and then to the lens assembly 400. When received by the lens assembly 400, the optical signal may be communicated to one or more components that are mounted on the PCB 110 by the lens assembly 400. As used herein, the term “optical interface” is used to describe the connector 300 and similar and / or similar structures that provide an interface for optical signals transmitted over the optical cable 102. May be used. In the illustrated optoelectric module 100, the optical cable 102 may include, for example, a ribbon optical fiber. In addition, or alternatively, the connector 300 may include a plug-type MT (mechanical transfer) connector.

  With reference to FIGS. 1B-1D, engagement and alignment between the connector 300 and the lens assembly 400 may be maintained by a cable clip (clip) 200. Specifically, the clip 200 can hold the connector 300. As described in more detail herein, the clip 200 may latch relative to the lens assembly 400 and / or the module housing 140 when the connector 300 is received within the lens assembly 400.

  As best shown in FIG. 1D, clip 200 may be provided with dust seal 122 and connector 300 to form a connector assembly 180 (FIG. 1D only). The dust seal 122 may be configured to partially surround the connector 300 and the clip 200. The dust seal 122 may reduce the introduction of dust or similar unwanted material into the module housing 140 when the connector 300 is received within the lens assembly 400. Specifically, the dust seal 122 corresponds to the module opening 124 (FIGS. 1B and 1C only) and may be shaped to partially surround a portion of the connector 300. When the connector 300 is received in the lens assembly 400 and / or when the connector 300 is generally disposed in the module opening 124, the dust seal 122 substantially eliminates the space between the connector 300 and the module opening 124. Filling, thereby preventing or substantially preventing intrusion of dust and / or other particles.

  With reference to FIGS. 1A-1D, the connector assembly 180 may be introduced into the module housing 140 through the module opening 124. FIG. 1D shows the connector assembly 180 outside the module housing 140. 1A and 1B show a connector assembly 180 disposed within the module housing 140.

  The lens assembly 400 can be disposed within the module housing 140. In some embodiments, the lens assembly 400 may be mounted on the module substrate 112. The connector assembly 180 may be introduced through the module opening 124 such that the lens assembly 400 receives the connector 300.

As best shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, when the connector 300 is received in the lens assembly 400, the release lever 220 (or a portion thereof) passes past the module housing 140 (eg, is arbitrarily defined). In the negative x direction). Protruding from the module housing 140 allows the release lever 220 to apply an actuating force 236 (FIG. 1B only) to the release lever 220 without removing or disassembling the module housing 140. To do. The actuating force 236 allows the connector 300 to disengage from the lens assembly 400 and allows the clip 200 to disengage from the module housing 140. The connector assembly 180 can be removed from the module housing 140 when the connector 300 is disengaged from the lens assembly 400 and the clip 200 is disengaged from the module housing 140. Thus, the clip 200 secures the connector 300 to the lens assembly 400, maintains the engagement between the connector 300 and the lens assembly 400, and without removing or disassembling the optoelectric module 100. Enable the clip 200 from the housing 140 and the connector 300 from the lens assembly 400 to be disengaged.

  2A-2C show an example embodiment of a clip 200. FIG. The clip 200 may be implemented as the clip 200 in the optoelectric module 100 of FIGS. FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of the clip 200. FIG. 2B shows a side view of clip 200. FIG. 2C shows a front view of the clip 200. Clip 200 may be configured to maintain engagement between the optical interface and the lens assembly. In addition, the user can unlatch the clip 200 and disengage the optical interface from the lens assembly without disassembling the optoelectric module comprising the optical interface and the lens assembly. For example, referring to FIGS. 1A-1D and FIGS. 2A-2C in combination, the clip 200 is configured to maintain engagement between the connector 300 and lens assembly 400 disposed within the module housing 140. It's okay. The user may unlatch the clip 200 from the lens assembly 400 and disengage the connector 300 from the lens assembly 400. The user may then pull the connector 300 and clip 200 from the module housing 140.

  With reference to FIGS. 2A-5B, an example embodiment of clip 200 is described in the context of FIGS. 1A-1D, which may include references to connector 300, lens assembly 400, and optoelectric module 100. FIG. However, embodiments of clip 200 may be used with other optical interfaces, such as other pluggable MT connectors, and / or with other optoelectric modules.

  With reference to FIGS. 2A-2C, the clip 200 may include a connector retaining mechanism 202. The connector holding mechanism 202 can be configured to hold an optical interface. The connector retaining mechanism 202 can generally support and maintain the position of the optical interface relative to the clip 200.

  In some embodiments, the connector retention mechanism 202 may include one or more retention arms 204. The holding arm 204 may be configured to at least partially surround at least a portion of the optical interface. In this embodiment and other embodiments, each holding arm 204 may have a vertical portion 208. The dimensions of the vertical portion 208 can be configured to accommodate a particular optical interface. For example, the retention arm 204 may be configured to at least partially surround the connector 300 discussed herein. Accordingly, the vertical portion 208 may be configured to substantially contact one or more sides of the connector 300.

In some embodiments, the holding arm 204 may omit the vertical portion 208, may be integrated or extended, and / or the connector holding mechanism 202 is lightened by elasticity (ie, compression). The vertical portion 208 may have a selected dimension to retain the interface. In addition, or alternatively, the holding arm portion 204 may have a horizontal portion configured to extend at least partially between the holding arm portions 204. The horizontal portion can support a portion of the bottom surface of the connector 300 (ie, configured to be disposed proximate to a portion of the bottom surface of the connector 300).

  The connector holding mechanism 202 can include a rear interface support 212. The rear interface support 212 may be configured to support the optical interface held therein. In addition, in some embodiments, the connector retention mechanism 202 includes a first retention force 244A and / or a second retention force 244B (FIGS. 2A and 2B only) with respect to the optical interface (generally retention force 244) may be added.

  In the clip 200, the rear interface support 212 can include one or more retaining spring arms 260. The retention spring arm 260 may be configured to apply one or more of the retention forces 244 to the optical interface in some situations. For example, in some configurations, the retention spring arm 260 may be configured to apply a retention force 244 when the connector retention mechanism 202 retains the optical interface. In addition or alternatively, the optical interface may apply a force to the rear interface support 212. The force applied by the optical interface may have a direction that is substantially in the negative x-direction. The retention spring arm 260 is configured to bend elastically and may provide a retention force 244 that counteracts the force applied by the optical interface. In these or other situations, the retention force 244 moves the optical interface forward (eg, has a larger x coordinate) relative to the clip 200 that is positioned to allow engagement with the lens assembly. Can be kept in position.

  In addition, in some embodiments, one or more of the retention forces 244 may “snap fit” the optical interface into the connector retention mechanism 202. For example, the retention spring arm 260 may be configured to apply a retention force 244 that is large enough to retain the optical interface.

  The holding spring arm portion 260 may include an arch portion 262, a horizontal portion 268, and a vertical portion 264. The arch portion 262 may comprise a portion of a holding spring arm portion 260 that is configured to bend elastically in response to applying a force in the negative x direction. The vertical portion 264 and the horizontal portion 268 may include a part of the holding spring arm portion 260 configured to come into contact with the optical interface held by the connector holding mechanism 202. In situations where the holding force 244 is not zero, the vertical portion 264 and the horizontal portion 268 of the holding spring arm 260 may transmit one or both holding forces 244 to the optical interface.

  For example, referring to FIG. 2B in detail, the retention spring arm 260 may extend from the clip body 226 (FIGS. 2A and 2B only). The arch portion 262 may be arched in the negative x direction. When a force is applied to the vertical portion 264 in the negative x direction, the arch portion 262 can be bent. In response, the first retention force 244A may provide a positive x direction.

  Referring to FIG. 2B, in some embodiments, the rear interface support 212 may define a connector height 266. Connector height 266 may be defined between horizontal portion 268 and upper support portion 254 (FIGS. 2A and 2B only). Connector height 266 may be sized to support a particular optical connector. In addition, the connector height 266 is sized so that the introduction of the optical connector into the rear interface support 212 provides a second holding force 244B that at least partially holds the optical connector. May be determined.

One or more dimensions of the rear interface support 212 may be configured to passively support the optical interface. In these or other embodiments, the retention force 244 can be substantially zero unless a force is applied to the rear interface support 212 and / or the optical interface is not retained therein. . When a force is applied to the rear interface support 212, i.e., the optical interface is held, the magnitude of one or more of the holding forces 244 can be non-zero. Alternatively or additionally, the holding force 244 may vary in magnitude depending on the magnitude of the opposite direction force applied to the optical interface held by the clip 200. Thus, the rear interface support can function as a stop to prevent movement of the optical interface beyond the rear interface support 212 in the negative x direction.

  An upper support 254 (detailed above) extends from the clip body 226 and can be divided into a plurality of holding spring arms 260. The clip body 226 may be connected to the front portion 242 of the clip 200 at the clip shoulder 216. Clip shoulder 216 may have an arch of material between clip body 226 and forward portion 242. The material arch is allowed some deflection and / or bending. The clip shoulder 216 can be configured such that the clip body 226 and the connector holding mechanism 202 pivot independently of the front portion of the clip 200. For example, when the clip 200 is actuated (described in detail later), the connector holding mechanism 202 may not rotate as much as the front portion about the z axis, or may not rotate at all.

  For example, referring to FIGS. 1B and 2B in combination, when the connector 300 is received by the lens assembly 400, the connector and the connector retaining mechanism 202 may be constrained. Thus, in these and other situations, the lens assembly 400 can substantially prevent rotation of the connector holding mechanism 202.

  Referring again to FIGS. 2A-2C, the clip 200 may also include a release lever 220 and a lens latch 228. The lens latch 228 may be configured to maintain a lens assembly that engages the optical interface. The lens latch 228 may be disposed at the first end 230 of the front portion 242. In this and other embodiments, the lens latch 228 may also have a rounded portion 240. The rounded portion 240 can be configured to reduce interference when the optical interface held by the connector holding mechanism 202 is introduced into the lens assembly.

  Release lever 220 may be configured to unlatch lens latch 228 to disengage the optical interface from the lens assembly. Release lever 220 may be connected to forward portion 242 at the second end of release lever 220. In some embodiments, the connection to the front portion 242 may be substantially rigid. The term “substantially rigid” when used with reference to the connection of the release lever 220 to the forward portion 242 is relative to the first end 232 of the release lever 220 (FIGS. 2A and 2B only). It can be shown that the applied force is transmitted to the front portion 242 via the connection. By way of example, not only the release lever 220 that moves in response to a force on the first end 232 (eg, 236 described below), but also the forward portion 242 may move.

Referring to FIG. 2B in detail, in this and other embodiments, the latch force 234 can affect the lens assembly in some situations. For example, in some embodiments, the clip 200 may be configured such that the latch force 234 has a non-zero magnitude. For example, the clip 200 may have a clip shoulder 216 with an arch of material between the clip body 226 and the front portion 242. When the clip 200 holds the optical interface received by the lens assembly, the arch of material can provide a latch force 234 having a non-zero magnitude. Moreover, in these and other embodiments, one or more dimensions of the clip 200 are such that when the optical interface is received within the lens assembly, the clip 200 is stretched to provide a latching force 234. May be configured.

  In some embodiments, the magnitude of the latch force 234 is substantially zero unless a force is applied to the clip 200 or to another component that attempts to remove the optical interface from the lens assembly. As such, one or more dimensions of the clip 200 may be configured. In these embodiments, when force is applied, the magnitude of the latch force 234 may be non-zero. The latch force 234 in a situation where the latch force 234 is other than zero will be described later.

  When the latch force 234 has a non-zero magnitude, the lens assembly can be pressed against the optical interface held in the connector holding mechanism 202. Accordingly, the lens latch 228 may function as a stop that prevents movement of the lens assembly beyond the lens latch 228 in the positive x direction. The latch force 234 can be combined with the retention force 244 to maintain the lens assembly and the optical interface in an engaged configuration.

  An actuating force 236 may be applied to the release lever 220 to actuate the release lever 220 that unlatches the lens latch 228 from the lens assembly. The actuating force 236 can move the first end 232 of the release lever 220 in the negative y direction. As a result, the second end 252 (and thus the lens latch 228) of the release lever 220 can be moved in the positive y direction, as will be described in more detail below. Movement of the lens latch 228 in the positive y direction is represented by arrow 238 in FIG. 2B. Specifically, in the illustrated clip 200, the front portion 242 of the clip 200 with the lens latch 228 can be moved in the positive y direction to disengage the lens latch from the lens assembly.

  For example, the forward portion 242 of the clip 200 may rotate clockwise around the clip shoulder 216 (according to the orientation of FIG. 2B). If the lens latch 228 is moved a predefined distance in the positive y direction (eg, the height of the lens latch 228), the latch force 234 can no longer affect the lens assembly and / or The lens latch 228 is now moved enough to not interfere with the lens assembly. If the latch force 234 no longer affects the lens assembly and / or is moved enough so that the lens latch 228 no longer interferes with the lens assembly, the light held by the clip 200 and the connector holding mechanism 202 The interface may be disengaged from the lens assembly.

  In some embodiments, the release lever 220 may have a preload 256. Preload 256 may generally return release lever 220 to an angular position relative to clip body 226, such as the angular position shown in FIG. 2B. For example, after the actuation force 236 is removed from the release lever 220, the pre-pressure 256 can return the release lever 220 to the angular position relative to the clip body 226 shown in FIG. 2B. The preload 256 may vary in size. By way of example, when the clip 200 is out (eg, as shown in FIGS. 1C and 1D), the preload 256 can have a magnitude of substantially zero. In addition, when the release lever 220 is moved downward after insertion into the optoelectric module, the preload 256 may have some magnitude other than zero.

Referring to FIGS. 2A-2C, the release lever 220 may also have a secondary latch 258. Secondary latch 258 may be configured to engage a secondary latch opening formed in the module housing. For example, referring to FIG. 1B in combination with FIGS. 2A-2C, the secondary latch opening 120 may be formed in the module housing. Secondary latch 258
May be configured to engage the secondary latch opening 120 when the clip 200 is disposed within the module housing 140. When an actuation force 236 is applied to the release lever 220, the resulting movement of the first end 232 of the release lever 220 in the negative y direction is from a latch opening 120 formed in the module housing 140. The secondary latch 258 can be disengaged and the forward portion 242 can be moved in the positive y direction as described above. When the lens latch 228 is moved a predefined distance in the positive y direction and the secondary latch 258 is disengaged from the latch opening 120, the connector 300 is disengaged from the lens assembly 400 and the module latch It can be pulled out of the housing 140.

  In addition, referring to FIGS. 1B and 2B in combination, the dimensions of the clip 200 can be determined relative to the module housing 140. For example, the release lever 220 may be sized to protrude from the module housing 140. Specifically, the release lever 220 may have a length 250 defined by the second end 252 of the release lever 220 and the first end 232 of the release lever 220. The length 250 may be defined such that a portion of the release lever 220 protrudes from the module housing 140. In some embodiments, the release lever 220 can comprise a handle.

  Referring again to FIGS. 2A-2C, in some embodiments, the clip 200 may include a lens stabilizing arm 270. The lens stabilizing arm 270 may extend in a substantially positive x direction. The lens stabilizing arm 270 may be configured to contact the side of the lens assembly to reduce movement in the positive and negative z directions. More generally, the lens stabilization arm 270 may constrain the lens assembly between the plurality of lens stabilization arms 270 in the z direction.

  Referring to FIG. 2C, the clip 200 can be configured to accommodate a particular optical interface and / or a particular lens assembly. For example, the plurality of holding spring arms 260 may be separated by the first distance 274. The first distance 274 may correspond to the width of a particular MT connector, for example. The first distance 274 may cause a particular connector to be disposed between the plurality of retention spring arms 260, and the particular connector may be connected to one or more of the particular optical interfaces. It may be in contact with the surface or have a specific clearance from the one or more surfaces, or both.

  In addition, the clip 200 can be configured to accommodate a particular lens assembly. For example, the plurality of lens stabilizing arms 270, the plurality of dimples 282 provided on them, or both may be separated by a second length 272. The lens stabilization arm 270 contacts one or more surfaces of a particular lens assembly, or at least a plurality of lens stabilization arms 270 constrain the lens assembly between them in the z-direction. The second length 272 can be determined. In some embodiments having dimples 282, the second length 272 can be determined such that the dimples 282 are received in cavities or recesses on a particular lens assembly. When received in a cavity or recess on a particular lens assembly, the dimple 282 provides a force that functions to maintain engagement between the optical interface and the particular lens assembly in the z-direction and / or the x-direction. Can contribute.

  With continued reference to FIG. 2C, the lens latch 228 may have a lens latch length 278. The lens latch length 278 can be greater than the second length 272 and / or the width of the lens assembly. The lens latch length 278 can reduce collisions between the lens latch 228 and the lens assembly opening configured to receive the optical interface.

  In addition, the rear interface support 212 may have a rear support length 287. The rear support length 276 may provide a structure to which a dust seal such as the dust seal 122 of FIGS. Some additional details in the structure to which the dust seal is attached are described below with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B.

  3A and 3B show the clip 200 of FIGS. 2A-2C, which holds an example of a connector 300 discussed with reference to FIGS. 1A-1D. The connector 300 is an example of an optical interface that is a term used in this specification. The connector 300 in the illustrated embodiment is a plug-type MT connector. In some embodiments, the clip 200 may be configured to hold other types of optical interfaces. FIG. 3A shows a side view of the clip 200 that holds the connector 300, and FIG. 3B shows a perspective view of the clip 200 that holds the connector 300.

  As described above, the clip 200 may be configured to hold the connector 300 and maintain the connector 300 in a forward position relative to the clip 200 (eg, with a larger x dimension). In its forward position, the insertable portion 302 of the connector 300 can be in front of the holding arm 204. The insertable portion 302 may have a portion of the connector 300 that is received, introduced, or placed relative to a lens assembly (not shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B).

  In addition, the connector 300 can also include a supported portion 308 (FIG. 3B only). The supported portion 308 comprises a portion of the connector 300 that is contacted by the retaining arm 204 or, more generally, is substantially enclosed, enveloped, or surrounded by the retaining arm 204. A portion of the connector 300 may be provided. In this and other embodiments, the holding arm 204 may be placed in contact with and / or in close proximity to the supported portion 308 along a portion of the two sides of the connector 300. In some embodiments, the holding arm 204 is not in contact with one or more sides of the supported portion 308, the entire bottom of the connector 300, or one or more of those sides or bottoms. Etc. and / or in close proximity.

  Connector 300 may also include a rear portion 304. The rear portion 304 may be disposed within the rear interface support 212 when held by the connector retention mechanism 202. As best shown in FIG. 3B, in this and other embodiments, the rear portion 304 may extend past the retaining arm 204 (with a larger or smaller z coordinate). The holding spring arm 260 applies a first holding force 244 A to the rear surface 318 of the rear portion 304, and the front surface 320 of the rear portion 304 can be pressed against the holding arm 204. The insertable portion 302 can be maintained in front of the holding arm portion 204 by pressing the front surface 320 of the rear portion 304 against the holding arm portion 204, and the connector 300 is held in the connector holding mechanism 202. Can be done.

The connector holding mechanism 202 can also fix the connector 300 in the y direction. Specifically, the rear portion 304 can be supported by the upper support portion 254 and the horizontal portion 268 and / or maintained between the upper support portion 254 and the horizontal portion 268. In addition to or in place of this, the supported portion 254 is supported by the horizontal portion 268 of the holding arm portion 204 and the clip body 226 and / or the horizontal portion 268 of the holding arm portion 204 and the clip body. 226. The movement of the connector 300 relative to the clip 200 may therefore be limited. In some embodiments, the vertical clearance 314 (FIG. 3A only) by securing the connector 300. The vertical clearance 314 can allow the first clip 200 to receive the insertable portion 302 into the lens assembly without physically interfering.

  Connector 300 may also include a cable support portion 306. The cable support portion 306 generally comprises a portion of the connector 300 that supports one or more optical cables (eg, the optical cable 102 of FIGS. 1A-1D). For example, one or more optical cables may be received in the cable support portion 306 or coupled to the cable support portion 306. Referring to FIGS. 2C and 3B in combination, the first distance 274 can be sized to accommodate the cable support portion 306 of the connector 300.

  4A and 4B show the clip 200 of FIGS. 2A-2C holding a connector 300 that engages an example lens assembly 400. The clip 200 can be configured to maintain the connector 300 that engages the lens assembly 400 and maintain alignment between the connector 300 and the lens assembly 400. In addition, the clip 200 can be configured to be unlatched through the application of an actuation force 236 that allows the connector 300 to disengage from the lens assembly 400. 4A shows a perspective view of the clip 200 that holds the connector 300 that engages the lens assembly 400, and FIG. 4B shows a side view of the clip 200 that holds the connector 300 that engages the lens assembly 400.

  The lens latch 228 may be configured to apply a latching force 234 against the front surface 404 of the lens assembly 400. More generally, the lens latch 228 is configured to engage the front surface 404 of the lens assembly 400, thereby moving the clip 200 and connector 300 in the negative x direction relative to the lens assembly 400. Can be prevented. The first retention force 244A may be directed in a substantially positive x direction while the latch force 234 may be directed in a substantially negative x direction. The first retention force 244A and / or latch force 234 may thus maintain engagement between the connector 300 and the lens assembly 400.

  In this and other embodiments, the lens latch 228 may be configured to apply a latching force 234 along the length 406 of the front surface 404. Accordingly, the latch force 234 may be transmitted approximately evenly along the length 406. Thus, the lens latch 228 can also maintain alignment between the lens assembly 400 and the connector 300.

  When the release lever 220 is actuated by the actuating force 236, the connector retaining mechanism 202 can be kept relatively constant. The anterior portion 242 may pivot clockwise around the clip shoulder 216 that moves the lens latch 228 in a substantially positive y direction such that the latch force 234 disengages from the front surface 404. Substantially movement of lens latch 228 in the positive y direction is represented by arrows 238 in FIGS. 4A and 4B. By moving the connector 300 and the clip 200 in a substantially negative x-direction, the connector 300 can then be disengaged from the lens assembly 400.

  With reference to FIG. 4B, the clip 200 may be configured to provide a positive engagement between the lens assembly 400 and the connector 300. For example, the lens assembly 400 can have a lens depth 402. Clip 200 therefore has a length 280 that allows connector 300 to engage lens assembly 400 with lens latch 228 applying a latching force 234 against front surface 404.

Referring again to FIGS. 4A and 4B, when the connector 300 engages the lens assembly 400, the plurality of lens stabilizing arms 270 contacts or is between the side surfaces 414 of the lens assembly 400. Can be more restrained. In FIGS. 4A and 4B, only one side 414 and only one lens stabilizing arm 270 can be seen. Contact between the lens stabilizing arm 270 and the side 414 may reduce movement of the lens assembly 400 relative to the connector 300 in a substantially z-direction.

  In addition, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the dimple 282 can be configured to be received in a cavity or recess provided on the lens assembly 414. When the dimple 282 is received in the cavity or recess, a force can be created that helps maintain the engagement between the contactor 300 and the lens assembly 400.

  In these and other embodiments, as long as the actuation force 236 does not include a force having a particular threshold magnitude, unlatching of the lens assembly 400 can be prevented. The particular threshold may be determined, at least in part, by the choice of material for the clip 200 (eg, stiffness, elasticity, etc.), the size of the clip shoulder (216 in FIGS. 2A-2C), and the like.

  In addition, in this and other embodiments, the lens latch 228 can have a rounded portion 240. The rounded portion 240 may reduce interference when the connector 300 held by the connector holding mechanism is introduced into the lens assembly 400. Specifically, the rounded portion 240 can slide along the top surface 412 of the lens assembly 400 as the connector 300 is moved in the positive x-direction. When the connector 300 is moved so that the lens latch 228 is in front of the front surface 404 (eg, has a larger positive x coordinate), the lens latch 228 moves or pops out in the negative y direction to cause the lens assembly. 400 may be latched into the connector 300.

  5A and 5B show a clip 200 with a dust seal 122 of an example embodiment. FIG. 5A shows the clip 200 attached to the dust seal 122, and FIG. 5B shows the clip 200 disassembled from the dust seal 122. The dust seal 122 in FIGS. 5A and 5B has a mounting structure 502. The attachment structure 502 can be configured to attach the clip 200 to the dust seal 122. The attachment structure 502 can form a cutout portion 504. Cutout portion 504 may correspond to rear interface support 212. In particular, the cut-out portion 504 can have a shape similar to the retention spring arm 260.

  In addition, the cutout portion 504 can have a mounting slot 506. The mounting slot 506 can be configured to receive a portion of the upper support 254. Referring to FIGS. 2C, 5A and 5B in combination, the rear support length 276 can be sized so that the upper support 254 has the material received by the mounting slot 506.

  6A and 6B show an example multi-module implementation 600. 6A shows a perspective view of multi-module implementation 600 and FIG. 6B shows a side cross-sectional view of a portion of multi-module implementation 600. FIG. The multi-module implementation 600 includes multiple examples of the optoelectric module 100 of FIGS. 1A-1D that can be mounted on a common substrate 602.

Referring to FIG. 6A, a multi-module implementation 600 may generally be implemented in an environment where multiple optoelectronic modules 100 (one of which is labeled in FIG. 6A) are utilized in close proximity to each other. 1 illustrates an example cable management system. The optoelectric modules 100 may be arranged in rows 604A-604C (typically one or more rows 604) and columns 606A-606F (typically one or more columns 606). In FIGS. 6A and 6B, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are intended to indicate the relationship between the optoelectric modules 100 and their location in columns 600 and rows 604. Specifically, the first row 604A
It is noted that the optoelectric module 100 in the first column 606A is upstream of another optoelectric module 100 in the second column 606B of the first row 604A. Similarly, the optoelectric module 100 in the second column 606B of the first row 604A is downstream of the optoelectric module 100 in the first column 606A of the first row 604A.

  The optoelectric module 100 in each row 604 can be similarly oriented. For example, in each of the rows 604, the optoelectric module 100 may be oriented such that the optical cable 102 (only one of those labeled in FIG. 6A) extends from the optoelectric module 100 on the same side. . For example, in FIG. 6A, two sides of the optoelectric module 100 are formed substantially parallel to the yz plane, and two sides of the optoelectric module 100 are formed substantially parallel to the xy plane. Can be done. The optical cable 102 exits from a first side having a lower x coordinate that is substantially horizontal with respect to the yz plane and a second side that is substantially horizontal with respect to the yz plane. The optoelectric module 100 may be oriented.

  With this orientation, the optical cable 102 exiting each of the optoelectric modules 100 faces an inclined portion 146 of the adjacent downstream optoelectric module 100. In addition, each cable path 144 (only one of those labeled in FIG. 6A) of the optoelectric module 100 in each of the rows 604 can be substantially aligned.

  In order to manage the optical cables 102, each of the optical cables 102 may be placed in the cable path 144 of the respective downstream optoelectric module 100. In addition or alternatively, a plurality of optical cables 102 may be stacked in the cable path 144. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the upstream optical cables 102 may be stacked on one or more optical cables 102 of the downstream optoelectric module 100.

  For example, FIG. 6B shows the first row 604A of FIG. 6A. In FIG. 6B, the optoelectric modules 100 are individually labeled as optoelectric modules 100A-100F. The first photoelectric module 100A is upstream of the second photoelectric module 100B, and the second photoelectric module 100B is upstream of the third photoelectric module 100C. Each of the photoelectric modules 100A to 100F may have cable paths 144A to 144F and inclined portions 146A to 146F. In addition, optical cables 102A-102F (typically one or more optical cables 102) exit each of optoelectric modules 100A-100F.

  When the first optical cable 102A exits the first photoelectric module 100A, the first optical cable 102A can then contact a portion of the second ramp 146B of the second photoelectric module 100B. The first optical cable 102A may be disposed in the second cable path 144B of the second photoelectric module 100B. The second ramp 144B may be configured such that the bend applied to the first optical cable 102A does not exceed the maximum allowable bend radius (eg, having an angle 150 in FIG. 1B).

When the second optical cable 102B exits the second photoelectric module 100B, the second optical cable 102B can then contact a portion of the third ramp 146C of the third photoelectric module 100C. The first optical cable 102A and the second optical cable 102B may be disposed in the third cable path 144C of the third photoelectric module 100C. The first optical cable 102A may be stacked on the second optical cable 102B in the third cable path 144C. The third ramp 146C may be configured such that the bend applied to the second optical cable 102B does not exceed the maximum allowable bend radius (eg, angle 15 in FIG. 1B).
0). Similarly, the third optical cable 102C, the fourth optical cable 102D, and the fifth optical cable 102E may be disposed in the cable paths 144D to 144F together with the first optical cable 102A and the second optical cable 102B. In addition, each of the optical cables 102A to 102E can be supported by the immediately downstream photoelectric modules 100D to 100F inclined portions 146D to 146F. In addition, when placed in the cable path 144, the movement of the optical cable 102 may be limited in the z direction.

  The present invention can be implemented in other specific forms. The foregoing embodiments are to be construed as merely illustrative in all respects and are not to be construed as limiting. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description but by the claims. All changes that fall within the scope of the claims are encompassed within the scope of the present invention.

Claims (18)

A cable clip configured to maintain engagement between an optical interface and a lens assembly included in the optoelectric module;
Clip shoulder,
The clip body,
A front portion attached to the clip body at the clip shoulder and having a first end opposite the clip shoulder when the portion of the optical interface is received by the lens assembly A front portion extending substantially in a first direction from the clip body such that extends along at least a portion of the outer top surface of the lens assembly;
A connector holding mechanism configured to hold the optical interface and extending from the clip body;
A lens latch disposed at the first end to latch the lens assembly relative to the optical interface when the portion of the optical interface is received within the lens assembly; A lens latch configured to apply a latching force against the outer front surface of the assembly;
A release lever connected to the front portion, wherein an actuating force is applied in a second direction to bend the front portion relative to the connector holding mechanism, and the lens latch to the lens assembly; the substantially the second person direction against in response to being moved in the third direction opposite to and from the lens assembly is configured to release the latch of the lens latch release A cable clip comprising a lever. The connector holding mechanism is
A holding arm configured to at least partially surround the optical interface;
The cable clip of claim 1, comprising a rear interface support configured to support the optical interface.   The cable clip of claim 1, wherein the release lever has a secondary latch configured to engage a secondary latch opening formed in a module housing of the optoelectric module.   4. The cable clip of claim 3, wherein the secondary latch is configured to disengage from the secondary latch opening in response to the actuation force being applied.   The cable clip according to claim 1, wherein the release lever is formed such that a part of the release lever protrudes from a module housing of the photoelectric module.   The said connector holding mechanism is provided with the rear interface support part, The said rear interface support part is comprised so that a holding force may be applied with respect to the said optical interface currently hold | maintained at the said connector holding mechanism. Cable clip.   The lens latch has a rounded portion configured to reduce interference between the cable clip and the lens assembly when the optical interface is introduced into the lens assembly. The cable clip of claim 1. A connector assembly configured to be at least partially disposed within a module housing of an optoelectric module , wherein the connector assembly comprises :
A cable clip that maintains engagement between the optical interface and the lens assembly when the cable clip is latched and the lens clip when the cable clip is unlatched; A cable clip configured to disengage the optical interface from the assembly;
A dust seal configured to at least partially surround the optical interface and the cable clip;
The cable clip is
Clip shoulder,
The clip body,
A front portion attached to the clip body at the clip shoulder and having a first end opposite the clip shoulder when the portion of the optical interface is received by the lens assembly A front portion extending substantially in a first direction from the clip body such that extends along at least a portion of the outer top surface of the lens assembly;
A connector holding mechanism extending from the clip body and configured to hold the optical interface;
A lens latch disposed near the first end for latching the lens assembly relative to the optical interface when the portion of the optical interface is received within the lens assembly; A lens latch configured to apply a latching force against the outer front surface of the lens assembly;
A release lever connected to the front portion, the module housing such that a portion of the release lever protrudes from the module housing when the optical interface is received by the lens assembly And the front portion is bent with respect to the connector holding mechanism by applying an actuating force in a second direction to the portion of the release lever protruding from the module housing. together with the lens latch is substantially the second person direction relative to the lens assembly in response to being moved in the third direction opposite, to release the latch of the cable clip A release lever configured , and
The dust seal, the cable clip has a mounting structure that is configured to be attached to the dust seal, which is determined in size to substantially fill the space between the optical interface and the module openings the connector assembly is introduced into the module housing through the module opening, connector assembly. The connector assembly of claim 8, wherein the cable clip comprises a connector retention mechanism configured to retain the optical interface with respect to the cable clip. The connector assembly according to claim 9, wherein the connector retaining mechanism comprises a rear interface support configured to apply a retaining force to a rear surface of the optical interface .   The connector assembly of claim 10, wherein the cable clip comprises a rear interface support configured to bend elastically and apply the retention force. The cable clip has a lens latch disposed at a first end of the front portion, and the lens latch contacts a front surface of the lens assembly when the optical interface is received by the lens assembly. The connector assembly of claim 8, wherein the connector assembly is configured to:   The connector assembly of claim 12, wherein the release lever is configured to disengage from the lens assembly in response to the actuation force being applied. The release lever includes a secondary latch configured to engage a secondary latch opening formed in the module housing;
The release lever is configured to disengage from the secondary latch opening in response to the actuation force;
The cable clip includes a plurality of lens stabilization arms extending from the connector holding mechanism, the lens clip configured to constrain the lens assembly between the plurality of lens stabilization arms. The connector assembly according to claim 13, comprising a forked arm. A mechanical transfer (MT) connector having 24 optical channels configured to communicate 24 channels of data and an optoelectric module configured to communicate data at 25 gigabytes per second (G) or higher A cable clip configured to maintain engagement between the lens assembly provided in
Multiple clip shoulders;
The clip body,
A connector holding mechanism configured to hold the MT connector and extending from the clip body;
A front portion attached to the clip body at the plurality of clip shoulders and having a first end opposite the plurality of clip shoulders, wherein a portion of the MT connector is received by the lens assembly. An anterior portion extending substantially in a first direction from the clip body such that the anterior portion extends along at least a portion of the outer top surface of the lens assembly;
Disposed at the first end of the front portion and configured to apply a latching force against an outer front surface of the lens assembly when a portion of the MT connector is received within the lens assembly. The lens latch and
A release lever extending from the front and sized to partially protrude from the module housing, wherein an actuating force is applied to the release lever in a second direction Accordingly, the front portion is bent with respect to the connector holding mechanism, and the lens latch is moved with respect to the lens assembly in a third direction substantially opposite to the second direction. A cable clip with a release lever. The connector holding mechanism is
A holding arm configured to at least partially surround the supported portion of the MT connector and not to surround the insertable portion of the MT connector;
A retention spring arm configured to apply a first retention force against a rear surface of the MT connector to maintain the MT connector in a forward position relative to the cable clip;
16. The cable of claim 15 , comprising an upper support and a horizontal support, wherein the upper support and the horizontal support are configured to support a rear portion of the MT connector therebetween. clip. A plurality of lens stabilizing arms extending from the connector holding mechanism, the plurality of lens stabilizing arms configured to restrain the lens assembly between the plurality of lens stabilizing arms; The cable clip of claim 16 . The release lever includes a secondary latch configured to engage a secondary latch opening formed in a module housing of the photoelectric module, the secondary latch being subjected to the actuation force The cable clip of claim 16 , further configured to disengage from the secondary latch opening accordingly.

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