Matrix of pluggable connectors for connecting large numbers of clustered electrical and/or opticcal cables to a module
US5337388A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 3, 1993 |
| Grant date | Aug 9, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 3, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3893
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A matrix of cluster connectors for switching and interconnecting large numbers of optical fiber and/or electrical conductors (such as coaxial lines) to a module used in computers, communications and related applications. The matrix of pluggable cluster connector receptacles is located on a major surface of a module, such as a ceramic multi-chip module or a thin film silicon chip carrier module. A semiconductor wafer is fabricated with a matrix of angled slots fabricated to form the matrix of receptacles. The wafer is a major surface of the module, and may have another opening for chips fastened to the module surface below the wafer. Each angled slot engages an end of a plug member to align any optical fiber ends contained in the cluster held by the plug with a corresponding lens/light signal transducer in the module. Instead, a light transducer may be contained in the plug to provide electrical signals to a contact of the plug mating with a contact deposited on the wall of the engaged slot, which also engage contacts connected to coaxial lines in the cluster.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.