Two-Dimensional Mode-Matching Grating Couplers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional optical grating couplers are costly, cumbersome, and inefficient, often introducing asymmetry and requiring complex, time-consuming processes.

Innovation Solution

The development of two-dimensional mode-matching grating couplers, which utilize diffractive elements with varying scattering strengths in different directions and shape transitions to achieve optimal mode matching and minimize coupling loss, allowing for efficient light coupling between photonic integrated circuits and optical fibers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If conventional optical grating couplers are used, then optical signal transmission is achieved, but coupling loss is high and efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling lossVSAvoidtransmission efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The grating coupler employs different scattering strength regions within the same structure - a first region with first scattering strength and a second region with second scattering strength. This local differentiation optimizes mode matching at different positions, reducing coupling loss while maintaining transmission efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from conventional one-dimensional grating structures to two-dimensional mode-matching grating couplers. This dimensional enhancement enables more precise control over light scattering patterns and mode matching, simultaneously reducing coupling loss and improving transmission efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional optical grating couplers are used, then optical coupling is achieved, but the structure is complex and manufacturing is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidgrating structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The grating coupler is divided into distinct regions (first region and second region) with different scattering strengths. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized independently for its specific function, simplifying the overall design and manufacturing process while reducing structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent varies the scattering strength parameter across different regions of the grating coupler. By controlling this parameter to create distinct regions with different optical properties, the design achieves complex functionality through relatively simple manufacturing adjustments rather than requiring intricate structural details.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If conventional optical grating couplers are used, then optical transmission is achieved, but asymmetry is introduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemode matching precisionVSAvoidoperational symmetry

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent intentionally introduces asymmetric scattering strength distribution with a first region having different scattering strength than a second region. This controlled asymmetry enables precise mode matching for specific transmission directions while maintaining overall system reliability, rather than attempting symmetric design that would compromise coupling efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach reduces coupling loss by ensuring precise matching of light profiles to fiber modes, enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of optical signal transmission and processing in integrated circuits.

Implementation Method 1

two-dimensional mode-matching grating couplers, which utilize diffractive elements with varying scattering strengths in different directions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDiffraction: Diffraction

Implementation Method 2

the grating coupler having increased scattering strength in a direction of a light wave traveling through the grating coupler

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectScattering: Scattering

Data Source

PatentUS11822136B2Method and system for two-dimensional mode-matching grating couplers

Publication Date: 2023.11.21 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC

AI summary

The present disclosure provides for two-dimensional mode matching by receiving an optical signal traveling in a first direction; and scattering the optical signal according lto a scattering strength that progressively changes in the first direction. In various embodiments, the scattering strength progressively changes by increasing or decreasing in the first direction. A plurality of scatterers disposed in a path of the optical signal change in widths that progressively increase or decrease along the first direction. In various embodiments, a second optical signal is received in the grating coupler from a second direction; and is scattered into a surface of a photonic chip via a grating coupler. In some embodiments, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.