Array-Type Photo Module With Light-Shielding Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing array-type photo modules for measuring signal strength across multiple wavelength channels are difficult to manufacture inexpensively and miniaturize, requiring precise alignment and complex structures that complicate the coexistence of high-density arrays and low crosstalk.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves using light-shielding members with openings aligned on a straight line connecting the filter and light-receiving elements, along with a gradient-index lens array and a multi-layer structure including SiO2, Ta2O5, and Ti films to suppress transmission and interface reflections, facilitating easy and cost-effective manufacturing while maintaining low crosstalk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional photo modules are arrayed to measure multiple wavelength channels, then signal strength measurement capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple wavelength channel measurements into a single integrated photo module by incorporating a wavelength separation prism that spatially separates different wavelength channels onto a single light-receiving element array, eliminating the need to manufacture and assemble multiple separate photo modules
Solution Approach 2:
The photo module is designed with multi-functionality to measure signal strength across multiple wavelength channels simultaneously using a single device, rather than requiring dedicated single-channel modules for each wavelength
2Volume of moving object
If high-density array is used to reduce module size, then miniaturization is improved, but crosstalk between channels increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a wavelength separation prism to separate light paths in the spatial dimension before detection, creating distinct optical paths for different wavelength channels that prevent crosstalk even when channels are densely packed in the same physical module
Solution Approach 2:
The wavelength separation prism acts as an intermediary optical element that spatially separates different wavelength channels before they reach the light-receiving elements, preventing direct crosstalk between channels while allowing high-density integration
3Measurement precision
If precise alignment structures are used to reduce crosstalk, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wavelength separation prism is positioned in advance during module assembly to pre-establish correct optical path alignment, eliminating the need for complex post-assembly alignment procedures and simplifying manufacturing while maintaining measurement precision
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 allows for the efficient and cost-effective manufacturing of array-type photo modules that can measure signal strength across multiple channels with high-density arrays and low crosstalk, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of wavelength division multiplexing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a gradient-index lens of approximately x/4 cycle length (x is an odd number), which is joined to an emitting end of the incident optical fiber and an incident end of the emitting optical fiber
Implementation Method 2
a filter which is joined to an opposite end of the optical fiber array of the gradient-index lens array, and in each channel, transmits therethrough a portion of the emitting light from the incident optical fiber on the opposite side of the gradient-index lens array and reflects another portion of the emitting light from the incident optical fiber toward the gradient-index lens array
Implementation Method 3
a light-shielding member which is arranged on the opposite side of the gradient-index lens array of the filter, and in each channel, has an opening through which transmitted light from the filter passes on the opposite side of the filter
Implementation Method 4
a multi-layer structure including SiO2, Ta2O5, and Ti films to suppress transmission and interface reflections
Implementation Method 5
a light-receiving element array which, in each channel, has a light-receiving element, which is arranged on an extended line connecting a transmission position in the filter and the opening of the light-shielding member, and measures a strength of light passing through the light-shielding member
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an array-type photo module including a filter, which, in each channel, transmits therethrough a portion of emitted light from an incident optical fiber on the opposite side of a gradient-index lens array and reflects another portion of the emitted light from the incident optical fiber toward the gradient-index lens array, and a light-shielding member which is arranged on the opposite side of the filter from the gradient-index lens array, so as to be spaced from the filter and, in each channel, has an opening passing therethrough transmitted light from the filter on the opposite side of the filter. The array-type photo module is easily and inexpensively manufactured, and may be used in a high-density array, with low crosstalk.