Bidirectional Optical Assembly with WDM Filters and Isolator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bidirectional optical assemblies with two transmitting channels and one receiving channel are difficult to miniaturize and are cost-ineffective due to the requirement of multiple optical elements like filters and couplers.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional optical assembly with two transmitting optical subassemblies (TOSAs) and one receiving optical subassembly (ROSA), utilizing wavelength division multiplex (WDM) filters and an optical isolator, housed in a configuration that allows independent alignment of components for improved optical coupling efficiency, eliminating the need for an optical coupler.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical elements (filters and couplers) are used to achieve bidirectional optical transmission, then the transmission functionality is improved, but the device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical filtering functions into a single integrated WDM filter component that handles both transmitting and receiving wavelength separation. This merging of functions reduces the number of discrete optical elements needed, thereby miniaturizing the device while maintaining bidirectional transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The WDM filter is designed to perform multiple functions: it separates transmitting wavelengths from receiving wavelengths, acts as a wavelength selector, and enables bidirectional operation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate filters and couplers for each direction, reducing overall device complexity and size.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical elements (filters and couplers) are used to achieve bidirectional optical transmission, then the transmission functionality is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple optical functions into fewer components, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, procured, and assembled. This consolidation lowers material costs, reduces assembly complexity, and improves manufacturing efficiency, thereby reducing overall production cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal WDM filter component performs multiple optical functions that would traditionally require several specialized components. This multi-functionality reduces the bill of materials cost and simplifies the supply chain, leading to lower manufacturing costs while maintaining full bidirectional transmission functionality.
3Reliability
If components are aligned independently along three directions, then the optical coupling efficiency is improved, but the alignment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the alignment process into three independent directional adjustments (X, Y, and Z axes), allowing each degree of freedom to be optimized separately. This segmentation of the alignment task enables precise control over optical coupling while maintaining a systematic and manageable alignment procedure through modular adjustment mechanisms.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If wavelength selective filtering is applied, then optical noise is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The WDM filter is designed as a universal component that simultaneously performs wavelength selection, noise filtering, and signal routing for both transmitting and receiving channels. By consolidating these functions into a single device, the patent reduces optical noise without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the filter handles multiple tasks efficiently.
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
The solution enables miniaturization and cost reduction by achieving superior optical coupling efficiency and reducing optical noise through wavelength selective filtering and independent alignment of components, while preventing light from returning as a noise source.
Implementation Method 1
The first WDM filter, arranged between the first TOSA and the sleeve assembly, reflects the light with the first wavelength and transmits the light with the second wavelength
Implementation Method 2
The second WDM filter, arranged between the sleeve assembly and the ROSA, transmits the light with first and second wavelengths and reflects the light with the third wavelength
Implementation Method 3
provide an isolator between the first and second WDM filters to transmit light propagating from the first WDM filter to the second WDM filter and to cut light propagating from the second WDM filter to the first WDM filter
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a bi-direction optical assembly with two optical transmitting channels by a small-sized package and relatively low cost. In the bi-directional optical assembly, the first transmitting optical subassembly (TOSA) and the receiving optical subassembly (ROSA) are optically coupled with the optical fiber via the inner housing. While the second transmitting optical subassembly is optically coupled with the optical fiber via the outer housing slidable to the inner housing.