Compact Electro-Optic Modulator for PCB Integration
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Summary
Problems
Current electro-optic modulators are large and not suitable for miniaturization, making them difficult to integrate with other electronic, optoelectronic, and optical components, which hinders their use in compact systems required for future applications like quantum technology.
Innovation solutions
A device comprising a light modulating element, such as an electro-optic crystal, enclosed in a casing that can be integrated on a printed circuit board, along with a resonant element for impedance matching and signal amplification, allowing for the modulation of light beam properties in response to electrical signals.
TRIZ Analysis
Specific contradictions:
General conflict description:
Principle concept:
If conventional electro-optic modulators are used, then light beam modulation is achieved, but the device size becomes too large for integration on printed circuit boards
Why choose this principle:
The patent segments the electro-optic modulator into discrete components: a bulk electro-optic crystal, electrode structures, and mounting elements that can be separately fabricated and then assembled on a printed circuit board. This segmentation enables miniaturization while maintaining functionality.
Principle concept:
If conventional electro-optic modulators are used, then light beam modulation is achieved, but the device size becomes too large for integration on printed circuit boards
Why choose this principle:
The patent transitions from three-dimensional bulk modulator designs to a planar configuration where the electro-optic crystal and electrodes are mounted on a two-dimensional printed circuit board substrate. This dimensional change enables integration into compact PCB-based systems.
Application Domain
Data Source
AI summary:
A device comprising a light modulating element, such as an electro-optic crystal, enclosed in a casing that can be integrated on a printed circuit board, along with a resonant element for impedance matching and signal amplification, allowing for the modulation of light beam properties in response to electrical signals.
Abstract
A device (1) for modulating a physical property of a light beam in response to an electrical signal is provided, comprising at least one light modulating element (13) capable of modulating a physical property of a light beam in response to an electrical signal and an enclosure (10) enclosing the at least one light modulating element (13). The enclosure (10) is configured to be integrated on a printed circuit board (40, 100).