Optical equipment

Abstract

An optical device or module includes a beam combiner (BC) configured to combine a first set of different wavelength beams into a first combined beam provided to a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM). The WDM is configured to transmit the first combined beam received from the BC to an I / O fiber, which in turn transmits a second combined beam comprising a second set of different wavelength beams to the WDM. The optical device or module includes a set of reflectors, each of which is configured to reflect one of the constituent wavelength beams from the second set of different wavelength beams received from the WDM back to a single optical fiber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of access network technology, and more particularly to passive optical devices configured to perform wavelength division multiplexing and methods of using the same. Background Technology

[0002] To date, network optical transceiver modules (sometimes referred to herein as "optical modules" or "optical devices") have been updated and iterated upon, and network speeds have rapidly increased. In this document, the terms "module" and "device" are used interchangeably. However, the rapid development of video surveillance, live streaming, artificial intelligence (AI), and other technologies has led to a surge in demand for upstream and downstream bandwidth, further driving the evolution of network technologies. This has resulted in corresponding concepts, standards, and requirements for next-generation passive optical network (PON) technologies (e.g., 50G PON) to make 10-gigabit broadband services possible.

[0003] To achieve compatibility, gigabit (GPON) and 10 gigabit (GPON) passive optical networks (10G PON or XG PON) have been widely deployed, mostly using combo PON modules, where, for example, GPON and XG PON optical signals can be transmitted simultaneously. In an example of a combo PON module, an uplink optical signal, comprising a set of uplink optical signals of different wavelengths, propagates over the input / output (I / O) fiber and enters the combo PON module. These uplink optical signals are then separated or demultiplexed by the wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) of the combo PON module into a set of optical signals of different wavelengths. A set of downlink optical signals of different wavelengths enters the combo PON module, is multiplexed by the WDM, and then combined or merged into the uplink optical signal transmitted over the I / O fiber. Bidirectional transmission of uplink and downlink optical signals over the I / O fiber can be achieved via a “butterfly wrapper” known in the art.

[0004] In the example, a set of uplink optical signals with different wavelengths may include a beam of light having wavelengths between, for example, 1265-1275 nm (nominal 1270 nm), 1284-1288 nm (nominal 1286 nm), and 1305-1315 nm (nominal 1310 nm). In the example, a set of downlink optical signals with different wavelengths may include a beam of light having wavelengths between, for example, 1340-1344 nm (nominal 1342 nm), 1480-1500 nm (nominal 1490 nm), and 1575-1580 nm (nominal 1577 nm). Utility Model Content

[0005] Traditional butterfly-shaped packaging cannot meet the requirements of 50GPON for small size and high precision. Accordingly, it is desirable to move away from traditional butterfly packaging to achieve bidirectional transmission of uplink and downlink optical signals, so as to provide a smooth evolution for server room deployment, save space and reduce costs, while being compatible with a variety of existing passive optical networks without utilizing existing optical distribution networks (ODNs).

[0006] An optical device or module is disclosed, comprising: a substrate; a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) deployed on the substrate, the WDM including a WDM prism, the WDM prism including a first set and a second set of filters deployed on corresponding first and second opposing surfaces of the WDM prism; and a beam combiner (BC) deployed on the substrate and including a set of prisms configured to receive a first set of different wavelength beams (1342nm, 1490nm, and 1577nm) propagating at intervals, combining the first set of different wavelength beams into a first combined beam, and... The combined beam is passed to filter F1A in the first set of filters. Filter F1A causes the first combined beam to pass through the WDM prism to filter F2A in the second set of filters. Filter F2A then passes the first combined beam to the input / output (I / O) fiber. The I / O fiber is configured to pass a second combined beam, comprising a second set of different wavelength beams (1270nm, 1286nm, and 1310nm), to filter F2A in the second set of filters for passing through the WDM prism to filter F1A in the first set of filters. Filter F1A reflects a second set of different wavelength beams through a WDM prism to filter F2B in a second set of filters. Filter F2B is configured to transmit the first wavelength beam (1286nm) from the second set of different wavelength beams and reflect the portion of the second set of different wavelength beams excluding the first wavelength beam through the WDM prism. A reflector R1, located near or adjacent to the WDM prism, is disposed on the substrate and configured to reflect the first wavelength beam (1286nm) from the second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by filter F2B. BC... The prisms are configured to: reflect a first subset (1577nm and / or 1490nm) of a first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the first direction perpendicular to the first direction in the second direction; reflect the first subset (1577nm and / or 1490nm) of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the second direction perpendicular to the second direction so that it propagates back in the first direction; and transmit a second subset (1342nm) of the first set of different wavelength beams, which is combined with the first subset (1577nm and / or 1490nm) of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating back in the first direction.

[0007] An optical device or module is also disclosed, comprising: a substrate; a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) deployed on the substrate; a beam combiner (BC) deployed on the substrate, wherein the BC is configured to combine a first set of different wavelength beams propagating at intervals and received by the BC into a first combined beam, the BC providing the first combined beam to the WDM, the WDM transmitting the first combined beam to an I / O fiber, wherein the I / O fiber is configured to transmit a second combined beam, including a second set of different wavelength beams, to the WDM; and a set of reflectors deployed on the substrate, wherein each reflector is configured to reflect a component wavelength beam of the second set of different wavelength beams received by the reflector from the WDM, wherein the BC is configured to: reflect a first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the first direction perpendicular to a first direction in a second direction; reflect the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the second direction perpendicular to the second direction, causing it to propagate back in the first direction; and transmit a second subset of the first set of different wavelength beams, the second subset being combined with the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams reflected back to propagate in the first direction. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 These are example optical devices or modules based on the principles of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0009] As used herein, spatial or directional terms such as “left,” “right,” “inner,” “outer,” “upper,” “lower,” “top,” “bottom,” etc., relate to the present disclosure as shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may employ various alternative orientations, and therefore such terms should not be considered limiting. Furthermore, as used herein, all figures expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, processing parameters, quantities of components, reaction conditions, etc., as used in the specification and claims, should be understood to be modified in all cases by the terms “approximately” or “about.” Therefore, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical values ​​set forth in the following specification and claims may vary depending on the desired characteristics sought to be obtained by the present disclosure.

[0010] At least, this is not an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalence to the scope of the claims; each value should be interpreted at least according to the number of significant digits reported and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Furthermore, all scopes disclosed herein should be understood to encompass the starting and ending range values ​​and any and all subranges contained therein. For example, the specified range “1 to 10” should be considered to include any and all subranges between the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10 (inclusive); that is, all subranges that begin with a minimum value of 1 or greater and end with a maximum value of 10 or less, such as 1 to 3.3, 4.7 to 7.5, 5.5 to 10, etc. “A” or “an” means one or more.

[0011] As used herein, the terms “coupled,” “coupled,” and similar terms mean that two or more elements are joined, linked, fastened, connected, connected, or otherwise associated with each other (e.g., mechanically, electromagnetically, fluidly, optically). In various examples, elements may be directly or indirectly associated. As an example, element A may be directly associated with element B. As another example, element A may be indirectly associated with element B, for example, through another element C. It will be understood that not all associations between the various disclosed elements are necessarily represented. Therefore, couplings different from those depicted in the figures may also exist.

[0012] As used herein, when used with a list of items, the phrase “at least one of…” means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items can be used and it may be necessary to use only one of each item in the list. For example, “at least one of Item A, Item B, and Item C” can be, but is not limited to, Item A or Item A and Item B. This example could also include Item A, Item B, and Item C, or Item B and Item C. In other examples, “at least one of…” can be, for example, but not limited to, two Item A, one Item B, and ten Item C; four Item B and seven Item C; and other suitable combinations.

[0013] In this document, the description of optical wavelength beams having specific wavelengths is strictly for illustrative purposes and should not be construed in a limiting sense.

[0014] refer to Figure 1 An optical device or module according to the principles of this disclosure includes a substrate 2 and a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) 4 disposed on the substrate 2. The WDM 4 includes a WDM prism 6, which includes a first set and a second set of filters 8 and 10 disposed on respective first and second opposite sides or surfaces 12 and 14 of the WDM prism 6.

[0015] A beam combiner (BC) 12 deployed on substrate 2 includes a set of prisms 14, 16, and 18, which are held together with an optical adhesive. BC 12 is configured to receive and combine a first set of different (downlink) wavelength beams 24, such as 1577 nm and 1490 nm, and a 1342 nm beam, which propagate into BC 12 in a spaced-out first downlink direction 28. The set of prisms 14, 16, and 18 of BC 12 can be 45° prisms, which can be configured to reflect a first subset (e.g., 1577 nm and 1490 nm beams) of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the first direction 28 into BC 12 in a second direction 30 perpendicular to the first direction 28. For example, a 1577 nm beam entering the body of the first prism 14 in the first direction 28 can be reflected +90° (or +90°) by the 45° surface 36 of the first prism 14 in the second direction 30. Figure 1 (clockwise 90°) so that it passes through the body of the first prism 14, the 45° surface 36 of the second prism 16 in the second direction 32, and then through the body of the second prism 16.

[0016] Continuing this example, a 1490nm beam entering the body of the second prism 16 in the first direction 28 can be reflected by the 45° surface 38 of the second prism 16 at +90° in the second direction 30 (or... Figure 1 The first subset of different wavelength beams (e.g., 1577nm and 1490nm beams) enters the bodies of the first and second prisms 14 and 16 in the direction of entry, and the 45° surfaces 36 and 38 of the first and second prisms 14 and 16 are oriented or configured such that, after the 45° surface 38 of the prism 16, the first subset of different wavelength beams (e.g., 1577nm and 1490nm beams) overlaps or combines into a beam as a combination of the first subset of different wavelength beams.

[0017] Next, a combination of a first subset of different wavelength beams (e.g., 1577nm and 1490nm beams) propagating in the second direction 32 within the body of the second prism 16 is reflected by the 45° surface 40 of the third prism 18 at a 90° angle (or... Figure 1 (90° counterclockwise) Back to the first direction 28 (facing) Figure 1(on the right side of the middle). Moreover, the second subset of the first set of different wavelength beams (e.g., the 1342nm beam) propagating in the first direction 28 passes through the body of the third prism 18 and through the 45° surface 40 of the third prism 18. Thereafter, the second subset of different wavelength beams (e.g., the 1342nm beam) overlaps or combines with the first subset of different wavelength beams (e.g., the 1577nm and 1490nm beams) to form a combined first set of different wavelength beams or a first combined beam 24', which propagates in the first direction 28 through the body of the prism 16 and outputs from BC 12 toward the WDM prism 6.

[0018] As can be understood from the foregoing description, the 45° surfaces 36, 38, and 40 may include optical filters or coatings that enable the surfaces to reflect or transmit each of the first set of different (downlink) wavelength beams 24 in the manner described above. Furthermore, the input surface of each prism 14, 16, and 18 may include an optical filter (not shown) configured to transmit only one of the first set of downlink wavelength beams and reject other wavelengths. For example, the input surfaces of prisms 14, 16, and 18 may include corresponding optical filters (not shown) configured to transmit at least the corresponding 1577nm, 1490nm, and 1342nm wavelength beams and reject other wavelength beams.

[0019] In this disclosure, each disclosed wavelength beam may represent a nominal value of the disclosed wavelength beam. For example, a wavelength beam with a nominal value of 1270 nm may range from 1265 to 1275 nm; a wavelength beam with a nominal value of 1286 nm may range from 1284 to 1288 nm; a wavelength beam with a nominal value of 1310 nm may range from 1305 to 1315 nm; a wavelength beam with a nominal value of 1342 nm may range from 1340 to 1344 nm; a wavelength beam with a nominal value of 1490 nm may range from 1480 to 1500 nm; and a wavelength beam with a nominal value of 1577 nm may range from 1575 to 1580 nm. Accordingly, the descriptions of beams including specific wavelengths herein should not be interpreted in a limiting sense. Moreover, the wavelengths of the disclosed wavelength beams are strictly for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting, as it is contemplated that the disclosed optical devices or modules may be configured for use with one or more other or different wavelength beams.

[0020] The first combined beam 24' output from BC12 is passed to filter F1A in the first set of filters 8. Filter F1A is configured to pass the first combined beam 24' received from BC12 to WDM prism 6, which is configured to pass the first combined beam 24' to filter F2A in the second set of filters 10. Filter F2A is configured to pass the first combined beam 24' to input / output (I / O) fiber 20 via an optional I / O focusing lens 22 for distribution to downstream hardware (not shown) and for use by it.

[0021] A second combined beam, including a second set of different (uplink) wavelength beams 26 (e.g., 1270nm, 1286nm, and 1310nm beams) that can propagate in a third direction 32 opposite to the first direction 28, can be output by I / O fiber 20 via optional I / O focusing lens 22 to filter F2A in the second set of filters 10, for passing through WDM prism 6 to filter F1A in the first set of filters 8. Filter F1A can be configured to reflect the second set of different wavelength beams 26 back through WDM prism 6 at an angle θ1 to filter F2B in the second set of filters 10. In the example, filter F2B can be configured to pass the first wavelength beam λ1 (e.g., the 1286nm beam) from the second set of different wavelength beams 26 to reflector R1, and reflect the portion of the second set of different wavelength beams 26 excluding the first wavelength beam λ1 (in this example, the 1270nm and 1310nm beams) back at an angle θ2 through WDM prism 6 to filter F2B in the first set of filters 8.

[0022] Reflector R1 may be deployed on substrate 4 close to or adjacent to the second surface 14 of WDM prism 6. Reflector R1 may be oriented and / or configured to reflect the first wavelength beam λ1 (e.g., 1286 nm beam) received from filter F2B in a second direction 30 at a distance from the surface of substrate 2 via optional focusing lens FL1 to fiber OF1 for distribution to and use by first upstream hardware (not shown).

[0023] In the example, filter F2B can be configured to reflect the portion of the second set of different wavelength beams 26 excluding the first wavelength beam λ1. For example, the 1270nm and 1310nm beams received from filter F2B can be reflected back at an angle θ3 through the WDM prism 6 to filter F2C in the second set of filters 10. In the example, filter F2C can be configured to reflect the portion of the second set of different wavelength beams 26 received from filter F1B excluding the first wavelength beam λ1 (e.g., the 1270nm and 1310nm beams) back at an angle θ4 through the WDM prism 6 to filter F1C in the first set of filters 8.

[0024] In the example, filter F1C can be configured to pass the second wavelength beam λ2 (e.g., a 1270 nm beam) from the second set of different wavelength beams 26 to reflector R2, and to reflect the portion of the second set of different wavelength beams 26 excluding the first and second wavelength beams λ1 and λ2 (in this example, a 1310 nm beam) back at an angle θ5 through WDM prism 6 to filter F2D in the second set of filters 10.

[0025] Reflector R2 may be deployed on substrate 4 close to or adjacent to the first surface 12 of WDM prism 6. Reflector R2 may be oriented and / or configured to reflect the second wavelength beam λ2 (e.g., 1270 nm beam) received from filter F1C in a second direction 30 at a distance from the surface of substrate 2 via optional focusing lens FL2 to fiber OF2 for distribution to and use by second upstream hardware (not shown).

[0026] In the example, the filter F2D can be configured to deliver a third wavelength beam λ3 (e.g., a 1310 nm beam) from a second set of different wavelength beams 26 to a reflector R3 deployed on the substrate 4 near or adjacent to the second surface 14 of the WDM prism 6. The reflector R3 can be oriented and / or configured to reflect the third wavelength beam λ3 (e.g., a 1310 nm beam) received from the filter F2D at a distance from the surface of the substrate 2 in a fourth direction 34 opposite to the second direction 30 via an optional focusing lens FL3 to the optical fiber OF3 for distribution to and use by third upstream hardware (not shown).

[0027] Other non-limiting examples or aspects of this disclosure are set forth in the following illustrative and exemplary numbered clauses:

[0028] Clause 1: An optical device or module comprising: a substrate and a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) disposed on the substrate, the WDM including a WDM prism, the WDM prism including a first set and a second set of filters disposed on respective first and second opposing surfaces of the WDM prism. A beam combiner (BC) disposed on the substrate and including a set of prisms configured to receive a first set of different wavelength beams (e.g., 1342 nm, 1490 nm, and 1577 nm beams) propagating at intervals, combine the first set of different wavelength beams into a first combined beam, and pass the first combined beam to a filter F1A in the first set of filters, the filter F1A causing the first combined beam to pass through the WDM prism to a filter F2A in the second set of filters, the filter F2A passing the first combined beam to an input / output (I / O) optical fiber. The I / O fiber is configured to transmit a second combined beam, comprising a second set of different wavelength beams (e.g., 1270 nm, 1286 nm, and 1310 nm beams), to filter F2A in a second set of filters, for passing through a WDM prism to filter F1A in a first set of filters. Filter F1A reflects the second set of different wavelength beams through the WDM prism to filter F2B in the second set of filters. Filter F2B is configured to transmit the first wavelength beam (e.g., the 1286 nm beam) from the second set of different wavelength beams and reflect the portion of the second set of different wavelength beams excluding the first wavelength beam through the WDM prism. A reflector R1, deployed on a substrate near or adjacent to a second surface of the WDM prism, is configured to reflect the first wavelength beam (e.g., the 1286 nm beam) from the second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by filter F2B. The BC prism is configured to: (1) reflect a first subset of a first set of different wavelength beams (e.g., 1577nm and / or 1490nm beams) propagating in the first direction perpendicularly to the first direction in the second direction; (2) after step (1), reflect the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the second direction perpendicularly to the second direction, so that it propagates back in the first direction; and (3) deliver a second subset of the first set of different wavelength beams (e.g., 1342nm beam), which is combined with the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the first direction in step (2) (e.g., 1577nm and / or 1490nm beams).

[0029] Clause 2: The optical device or module of Clause 1 further includes a filter F1B of a first set of filters, the filter F1B being configured to reflect a portion of a second set of different wavelength beams received from filter F2B, excluding the first wavelength beam, through a WDM prism to filter F2C in the second set of filters. Filter F2C is configured to reflect a portion of the second set of different wavelength beams, excluding the first wavelength beam, through a WDM prism to filter F1C in the first set of filters. Filter F1C is configured to transmit a second wavelength beam (e.g., a 1270 nm beam) from the second set of different wavelength beams and reflect a portion of the second set of different wavelength beams, excluding the first and second wavelength beams (e.g., a 1310 nm beam), through the WDM prism. A reflector R2, disposed on a substrate near or adjacent to a first surface of the WDM prism, is configured to reflect the second wavelength beam (e.g., a 1270 nm beam) from the second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by filter F1C.

[0030] Clause 3: The optical device or module of Clause 1 or 2 further includes a filter F2D in a second set of filters, the filter F2D being configured to transmit a third wavelength beam (e.g., a 1310 nm beam) from a second set of different wavelength beams minus the first and second wavelength beams. A reflector R3, deployed on the substrate near or adjacent to the second surface of the WDM prism, is configured to reflect the third wavelength beam (e.g., a 1310 nm beam) from the second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by the filter F2D.

[0031] Clause 4: The optical device or module of any of Clauses 1-3 further includes a filter F1C in a first set of filters, the filter F1C being configured to transmit a second wavelength beam (e.g., a 1270 nm beam) from a second set of different wavelength beams minus a first wavelength beam (e.g., a 1286 nm beam) and reflect the portion of the second set of different wavelength beams other than the first and second wavelength beams (e.g., a 1310 nm beam) through the WDM prism. A reflector R2, disposed on a substrate near or adjacent to a first surface of the WDM prism, is configured to reflect the second wavelength beam (e.g., a 1270 nm beam) from the second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by the filter F1C.

[0032] Clause 5: The optical device or module of any of Clauses 1-4 further includes a filter F2D in a second set of filters, the filter F2D being configured to transmit a third wavelength beam (e.g., a 1310 nm beam) from a second set of different wavelength beams minus the first and second wavelength beams. A reflector R3, disposed on the substrate near or adjacent to the second surface of the WDM prism, is configured to reflect the third wavelength beam (e.g., a 1310 nm beam) from the second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by the filter F2D.

[0033] Clause 6: The optical device or module of any of Clauses 1 to 5 further includes filters F1B and F2C in the corresponding first and second groups of filters, the filters F1B and F2C being configured to reflect the portion of the second group of different wavelength beams other than the first wavelength beam to filter F1C.

[0034] Clause 7: An optical device or module of any of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein at least one of reflectors R1, R2 and R3 is configured to reflect a corresponding first wavelength beam, second wavelength beam and third wavelength beam laterally or perpendicularly to the propagation direction of at least one of a first set of different wavelength beams and a second set of different wavelength beams.

[0035] Clause 8: An optical device or module of any of Clauses 1-7, wherein reflector R1 is configured to reflect a first wavelength beam in a direction intersecting with a first set of different wavelength beams and a second set of different wavelength beams.

[0036] Clause 9: An optical device or module of any of Clauses 1 to 8, wherein reflector R2 is configured to reflect a second wavelength beam in a direction that intersects only with the first set of different wavelength beams of the combination.

[0037] Clause 10: An optical device or module of any of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein reflector R3 is configured to reflect a third wavelength beam in a direction away from the propagation direction of the first set of different wavelength beams and the second set of different wavelength beams combined.

[0038] Clause 11: An optical device or module comprising: a substrate; a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) deployed on the substrate; a beam combiner (BC) deployed on the substrate, wherein the BC is configured to combine a first set of different wavelength beams propagating at intervals and received by the BC into a first combined beam, the BC providing the first combined beam to the WDM, the WDM transmitting the first combined beam to an I / O fiber, wherein the I / O fiber is further configured to transmit a second combined beam comprising a second set of different wavelength beams to the WDM; and a set of reflectors deployed on the substrate, wherein each reflector is configured to reflect one of the constituent wavelength beams of the second set of different wavelength beams received by the reflector from the WDM. BC is configured to: (1) reflect a first subset of a first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the first direction in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction; (2) after step (1), reflect the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the second direction perpendicular to the second direction so that it propagates back in the first direction; and (3) deliver a second subset of the first set of different wavelength beams, which is combined with the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams reflected in step (2) to propagate in the first direction.

[0039] Clause 12: The optical device or module of Clause 11, wherein the WDM is configured to separate the second combined beam into a composition wavelength beam comprising a second set of different wavelength beams.

[0040] Clause 13: The optical device or module of Clause 11 or 12, wherein the WDM comprises: a WDM prism having first and second opposing surfaces; and a first set and a second set of filters deployed on the respective first and second opposing surfaces of the WDM prism.

[0041] Clause 14: An optical device or module of any one of Clauses 11-13, wherein: the second set of filters includes filter F2B configured to transmit a first wavelength beam of a second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R1 of the set of reflectors; the first set of filters includes filter F1C configured to transmit a second wavelength beam of a second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R2 of the set of reflectors; the second set of filters includes filter F2D configured to transmit a third wavelength beam of a second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R3 of the set of reflectors; reflectors R1 and R3 are deployed close to or adjacent to a second side of the WDM prism; and reflector R2 is deployed close to or adjacent to a first side of the WDM prism.

[0042] Clause 15: An optical device or module of any of Clauses 11-14, wherein: the second set of filters includes filter F2A configured to transmit a first set and a second set of different wavelength beams; the first set of filters includes filter F1A configured to reflect the second set of different wavelength beams before filter F2B transmits a first wavelength beam from the second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R1; and the first and second sets of filters include filters F1B and F2C configured to reflect a second subset of the second set of different wavelength beams before filter F1C transmits a second wavelength beam from the second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R2 and filter F2D transmits a third wavelength beam from the second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R3.

[0043] Clause 16: A method of optical filtering, comprising: (a) combining a first set of different wavelength beams propagating in a first direction at intervals by a beam combiner (BC) deployed on a substrate into a first combined beam propagating in the first direction, wherein the BC reflects a first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams to propagate in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and then reflects them back to propagate in the first direction, wherein the BC combines a second subset of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the first direction with the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams to form the first combined beam; (b) providing the first combined beam to a wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) deployed on the substrate; (c) receiving the first combined beam after passing through the WDM by an input / output (I / O) fiber; (d) receiving a second combined beam comprising a second set of different wavelength beams from the I / O fiber by the WDM; (e) separating the second set of different wavelength beams into component wavelength beams comprising the second set of different wavelength beams by the WDM; and (f) providing each component wavelength beam of the second set of different wavelength beams to a single fiber by the WDM.

[0044] Clause 17: The method of Clause 16, wherein: the WDM includes a WDM prism and a first set and a second set of filters deployed on the first and second opposing surfaces of the WDM prism; and step (e) includes: (1) separating a first wavelength beam from the constituent wavelength beams comprising a second set of different wavelength beams by filter F2B in the second set of filters; (2) separating a second wavelength beam from the constituent wavelength beams comprising a second set of different wavelength beams by filter F1C in the first set of filters; and (3) separating a third wavelength beam from the constituent wavelength beams comprising a second set of different wavelength beams by filter F2D in the second set of filters.

[0045] Clause 18: The method of Clause 16 or 17, wherein step (e) further comprises: before step (1), reflecting a second set of different wavelength beams to filter F2B by filter F1A of the first set of filters; between steps (1) and (2), reflecting a portion of the second set of different wavelength beams excluding the first wavelength beam in the constituent wavelength beams comprising the second set of different wavelength beams to filter F1C by filter F2B, filter F1B of the first set of filters, and filter F2C of the second set of filters; and between steps (2) and (3), reflecting a portion of the second set of different wavelength beams excluding the first and second wavelength beams in the constituent wavelength beams comprising the second set of different wavelength beams to filter F2D by filter F1C.

[0046] Clause 19: The method of any one of Clauses 16-18, wherein the first and second combined beams propagate in opposite directions.

[0047] Clause 20: The method of any one of Clauses 16 to 19, wherein step (f) comprises providing each component wavelength beam of a second set of different wavelength beams to a single optical fiber via a single reflector.

[0048] While this disclosure has been described in detail for illustrative purposes based on embodiments currently considered to be the most practical and preferred, it should be understood that such details are for that purpose only and that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it should be understood that this disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment may be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.

Claims

1. An optical device, characterized in that... The optical device includes: substrate; A wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) is deployed on a substrate. The WDM includes a WDM prism, and the WDM prism includes a first set and a second set of filters deployed on respective first and second opposing surfaces of the WDM prism. A beam combiner BC is deployed on a substrate and includes a set of prisms configured to receive a first set of different wavelength beams propagating at intervals, combine the first set of different wavelength beams into a first combined beam, and pass the first combined beam to filter F1A in a first set of filters. Filter F1A causes the first combined beam to pass through a WDM prism to filter F2A in a second set of filters. Filter F2A passes the first combined beam to an input / output I / O fiber. The I / O fiber is configured to transmit a second combined beam, including a second set of different wavelength beams, to filter F2A in a second set of filters for passing through a WDM prism to filter F1A in a first set of filters. Filter F1A reflects the second set of different wavelength beams through the WDM prism to filter F2B in the second set of filters. Filter F2B is configured to transmit a first wavelength beam from the second set of different wavelength beams and reflect the portion of the second set of different wavelength beams excluding the first wavelength beam through the WDM prism. A reflector R1, which is disposed on the substrate near or adjacent to the second surface of the WDM prism, is configured to reflect the first wavelength beam of a second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by the filter F2B. The set of prisms in BC is configured to: reflect a first subset of a first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the first direction perpendicular to the first direction in the second direction; reflect the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the second direction perpendicular to the second direction, so that it propagates back in the first direction; and transmit a second subset of the first set of different wavelength beams, which is combined with the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating back in the first direction.

2. The optical device as described in claim 1, further comprising: Filter F1B in the first group of filters is configured to reflect the portion of the second group of different wavelength beams (excluding the first wavelength beam) through a WDM prism to filter F2C in the second group of filters. Filter F2C is configured to reflect the portion of the second group of different wavelength beams (excluding the first wavelength beam) through a WDM prism to filter F1C in the first group of filters. Filter F1C is configured to transmit the second wavelength beam from the second group of different wavelength beams and reflect the portion of the second group of different wavelength beams (excluding the first and second wavelength beams) through a WDM prism. as well as Reflector R2, which is located near or adjacent to the first surface of the WDM prism, is deployed on the substrate and is configured to reflect the second wavelength beam of a second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by filter F1C.

3. The optical device as described in claim 2, further comprising: The filter F2D in the second group of filters is configured to transmit a third wavelength beam from a second group of different wavelength beams minus the first wavelength beam and the second wavelength beam. as well as Reflector R3, which is located near or adjacent to the second surface of the WDM prism, is deployed on the substrate and is configured to reflect a third wavelength beam from a second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by the filter F2D.

4. The optical device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: The filter F1C in the first group of filters is configured to transmit the second wavelength beam from the second group of different wavelength beams minus the first wavelength beam, and to reflect the portion of the second group of different wavelength beams other than the first wavelength beam and the second wavelength beam through the WDM prism. as well as Reflector R2, which is located near or adjacent to the first surface of the WDM prism, is deployed on the substrate and is configured to reflect the second wavelength beam of a second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by filter F1C.

5. The optical device as described in claim 4, further comprising: The filter F2D in the second group of filters is configured to transmit a third wavelength beam from a second group of different wavelength beams minus the first wavelength beam and the second wavelength beam. as well as Reflector R3, which is located near or adjacent to the second surface of the WDM prism, is deployed on the substrate and is configured to reflect a third wavelength beam from a second set of different wavelength beams transmitted by the filter F2D.

6. The optical device of claim 4, further comprising corresponding filters F1B and F2C in the first set of filters and the second set of filters, said filters F1B and F2C being configured to reflect the portion of the second set of different wavelength beams excluding the first wavelength beam to filter F1C.

7. The optical device of claim 3, wherein at least one of the reflectors R1, R2 and R3 is configured to reflect a corresponding first wavelength beam, second wavelength beam and third wavelength beam laterally or perpendicularly to the propagation direction of at least one of the first set of different wavelength beams and the second set of different wavelength beams.

8. The optical device of claim 7, wherein the reflector R1 is configured to reflect the first wavelength beam in a direction intersecting with the combined first set of different wavelength beams and the second set of different wavelength beams.

9. The optical device of claim 7, wherein the reflector R2 is configured to reflect a second wavelength beam in a direction that intersects only with the first set of different wavelength beams in combination.

10. The optical device of claim 7, wherein the reflector R3 is configured to reflect a third wavelength beam in a direction away from the propagation direction of the combined first set of different wavelength beams and the second set of different wavelength beams.

11. An optical device, characterized in that... The optical device includes: substrate; A wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) is deployed on a substrate; A beam combiner BC, deployed on a substrate, wherein the BC is configured to combine a first set of different wavelength beams propagating at intervals and received by the BC into a first combined beam, the BC providing the first combined beam to a WDM, the WDM transmitting the first combined beam to an I / O fiber, wherein the I / O fiber is configured to transmit a second combined beam, including a second set of different wavelength beams, to the WDM; and A set of reflectors, deployed on a substrate, wherein each reflector is configured to reflect one of a constituent wavelength beam from a second set of different wavelength beams received by the reflector from the WDM. BC is configured to: reflect a first subset of a first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the first direction perpendicular to the first direction in the second direction; reflect the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams propagating in the second direction perpendicular to the second direction, so that it propagates back in the first direction; and transmit a second subset of the first set of different wavelength beams, the second subset being combined with the first subset of the first set of different wavelength beams reflected back to propagate in the first direction.

12. The optical device of claim 11, wherein the WDM is configured to separate the second combined beam into a constituent wavelength beam comprising a second set of different wavelength beams.

13. The optical device of claim 11, wherein the WDM comprises: WDM prism, the WDM prism having first and second opposing surfaces; as well as A first set of filters and a second set of filters are deployed on corresponding first and second opposing surfaces of the WDM prism.

14. The optical device as claimed in claim 13, wherein: The second set of filters includes filter F2B, which is configured to transmit the first wavelength beam of the second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R1 in the set of reflectors. The first set of filters includes filter F1C, which is configured to transmit a second wavelength beam from a second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R2 in the set of reflectors. The second set of filters includes filter F2D, which is configured to transmit a third wavelength beam from the second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R3 in the set of reflectors. Reflectors R1 and R3 are deployed close to or adjacent to the second side of the WDM prism; and Reflector R2 is deployed close to or adjacent to the first side of the WDM prism.

15. The optical device as claimed in claim 14, wherein: The second set of filters includes filter F2A, which is configured to transmit a first set of different wavelength beams and a second set of different wavelength beams. The first set of filters includes filter F1A, which is configured to reflect the second set of different wavelength beams before filter F2B passes the first wavelength beam of the second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R1. as well as The first and second sets of filters include filters F1B and F2C, which are configured to reflect a second subset of the second set of different wavelength beams before filter F1C transmits the second wavelength beam from the second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R2 and filter F2D transmits the third wavelength beam from the second set of different wavelength beams to reflector R3.

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