Dual-Lens Optical Coupling for Multicore Fiber Power Density Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of efficiently coupling optical signals from multi-channel devices to multicore fibers while minimizing the size and material costs of optical devices, particularly due to power density limitations in existing optical isolators and the increased density of optical components.
Innovation Solution
A lens arrangement comprising a collimating lens, a focusing lens, and at least one optical component positioned between them, which reduces power density and allows for efficient coupling of optical signals into multicore fibers, using a single lens system to minimize component count and size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single lens system is used to couple optical signals from multi-channel devices to multicore fibers, then the component count and device size are reduced, but the power density in optical components (such as optical isolators) increases and may exceed power density limits
Solution Approach 1:
The optical coupling system is segmented into multiple functional stages: a first lens to collimate the optical signals from the multi-channel device, and a second lens to focus the collimated signals onto the multicore fiber. This segmentation allows the system to achieve efficient coupling while distributing the optical power across different spatial regions, thereby reducing peak power density in any single component.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple optical components are used to couple optical signals to multicore fibers, then power density limits are respected, but the device size and material costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical coupling function with the mechanical alignment and positioning functions into an integrated housing structure. The first and second lenses are positioned within a common housing that also contains the multi-channel device and multicore fiber, allowing multiple components to work together in a compact arrangement that minimizes overall device size while maintaining proper optical coupling and power density control.
3Power
If optical isolators with high power density handling are used, then higher power transmission is enabled, but the material and fabrication costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical coupling system is designed with different optical characteristics at different locations: the first lens provides broad beam collimation to reduce power density, while the second lens provides localized focusing onto the fiber cores. This local quality variation allows standard, lower-cost optical isolators to be used effectively, as the power density is managed spatially rather than requiring high-power-rated components throughout the entire system.
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 higher power transmission without exceeding power density limits, reduces component count and material costs, and maintains efficient optical coupling, even with power-sensitive components like optical isolators.
Implementation Method 1
a first collimating lens aligned to the first front facet
Implementation Method 2
a focusing lens
Data Source
AI summary
The optical devices described herein include a lens arrangement for coupling light between light sources and optical fibers with a reduced size compared to the use of optical waveguides, while also allowing for the use of power sensitive optical components, such as components with lower power density configurations. The lens arrangements include a collimating lens, a focusing lens, and at least one optical component positioned between the collimating lens and the focusing lens.