Actively Aligned Detectors for Optical Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-channel light-detecting devices face challenges in aligning detectors due to misalignment of focal points and limited packaging space, which affects the sensitivity and responsivity of detectors in optical signal reception systems.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel optical or optoelectronic device with individually positioned detectors and lenses, where each lens focuses light of a unique wavelength onto a corresponding detector, and a method to determine and assign precise coordinates for optimal placement of detectors based on focal points, allowing for customized alignment and improved alignment freedom.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cascaded detectors are used to receive multi-channel signals, then the device can detect multiple wavelengths, but the focal points of different signals become misaligned and not equally spaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional linear array of detectors to a two-dimensional detector array configuration. This allows detectors to be positioned at non-equally spaced intervals while still capturing multiple wavelength channels, resolving the conflict between multi-channel capability and precise focal point alignment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial arrangement parameters of the detector array, allowing for variable spacing between detectors rather than fixed equal spacing. This enables the focal points of different wavelength signals to be accurately positioned on detector surfaces even when the spacing between focal points is not uniform
2Area of stationary object
If four or more detectors are mounted within a small ROSA package area, then the device fits compact packaging requirements, but typical free space alignment is not allowed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested configuration where the detector array is integrated within the ROSA package substrate, with detectors mounted in close proximity to the lens array. This nesting approach allows multiple detectors to fit within the constrained packaging area while maintaining optical alignment through the integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
By utilizing a two-dimensional detector array layout on the package substrate, the patent maximizes the use of available packaging area, allowing four or more detectors to be accommodated within the small ROSA footprint without requiring excessive linear space
3Manufacturing precision
If detectors are positioned at exact X-Y focal points with equal spacing, then the alignment is precise for ideal conditions, but beam misalignment from the intended target cannot be corrected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable and repositionable detector mounting mechanisms that allow the detectors to be dynamically positioned and repositioned during assembly and testing. This enables correction of beam misalignment by adjusting detector locations to match actual focal point positions, even when those positions deviate from ideal equal-spacing configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows for variable spacing and positioning parameters of the detector array, enabling the system to adapt to actual beam focal point locations. This flexibility permits correction of misalignment by changing the positional parameters of detectors to match the actual optical path and focal points
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 enables optimal alignment of detectors for maximum sensitivity and responsivity, enhancing the performance and yield of multi-channel optical signal reception systems by ensuring each detector is accurately positioned relative to its focal point, even in constrained packaging environments.
Implementation Method 1
Each lens is configured to focus light of the unique wavelength or wavelength band towards a corresponding one of the detectors
Implementation Method 2
Generally, each detector comprises a photodiode configured to absorb light of the unique wavelength or wavelength band
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-channel optical device and method of making the same are disclosed. The optical device includes a plurality of detectors on a detector mounting substrate, and a corresponding plurality of lenses on an interior surface of the optical device. Each detector detects light having a unique center wavelength. Each center wavelength corresponds to a channel of the optical device. Each lens focuses light towards a corresponding detector. Each detector has a location corresponding to a focal point of the light focused by a corresponding lens. The method of making the optical device includes placing lenses on a surface of the optical device housing, transmitting light having a plurality of center wavelengths through the lenses, determining locations on a detector mounting substrate where each light beam is focused by a lens, and placing a detector at each location.