Bidirectional Optical Device Using Wavelength-Division Multiplexer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of assembly and high production costs of bi-directional optical communication devices due to the need for precise alignment of multiple optical components.
Innovation Solution
The use of a wavelength-division multiplexer simplifies the alignment and reduces the number of optical components required, integrating key elements like transparent elements, central lenses, and a light-splitting element to streamline the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical components (light emitters, optical sensors, lenses, filters, beam splitters) are assembled to enable bidirectional transmission, then the optical communication device achieves bidirectional transmission function, but the assembly steps become complicated and production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical components (light emitter, optical sensor, lenses, filters, beam splitters) into an integrated optical module. The light emitter and optical sensor are positioned in close proximity with shared optical paths, allowing bidirectional transmission functionality to be achieved through a single integrated assembly rather than separate component alignment, thereby reducing production time and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The optical module is designed to perform multiple functions using the same physical components. The light emitter can transmit both optical signals and infrared signals through different wavelengths, while the optical sensor can detect both types of signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate transmission and reception modules, simplifying the overall assembly process
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical components are assembled with precise alignment requirements, then bidirectional transmission functionality is achieved, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple optical components into a single modular unit with pre-established optical paths and fixed relative positions, the patent eliminates the need for costly precision alignment procedures during assembly. The integrated design allows standard manufacturing techniques to be used, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining bidirectional transmission functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is divided into functional modules (light emitter module, optical sensor module, optical path module) that can be manufactured and tested independently before final assembly. This segmentation allows for quality control at each stage and reduces the complexity of final assembly, thereby lowering overall production costs
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 production time and costs by minimizing the complexity of component alignment and integration, enhancing the efficiency of bi-directional optical signal transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a light-splitting element integrated into the housing and configured to split a first optical signal from a first wavelength incident on the light-splitting element from a second optical signal of a second wavelength
Implementation Method 2
a central lens integrated into the housing, positioned between the light-splitting element and the optical-signal receiver
Implementation Method 3
a central lens integrated into the housing, positioned between the light-splitting element and the optical-signal receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A bi-directional optical communication device comprising a reduced number of components for speedier and less costly manufacture includes a plate and a wavelength-division multiplexer disposed on the plate. An optical-signal transmitter disposed on the board emits first beam to the wavelength-division multiplexer and an optical-signal receiver disposed on the board detects the second beam emitted by the wavelength-division multiplexer. An optical receptacle is disposed on the plate for actual connection to an optical fiber. The optical fiber emits the second beam to the wavelength-division multiplexer, and the multiplexer emits the first beam to the optical fiber.