Dual-Reflector Grating Coupler for Lower Optical Signal Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grating couplers in optical signaling and processing systems suffer from energy losses, which affect overall system performance.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of dual-layer metal reflection layers, including a backside reflector layer and a receiving reflector layer with openings, enhances optical signal coupling and collection efficiency by providing multiple reflections and concentrating optical signals within the grating coupler.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If existing grating couplers are used for optical signal coupling, then optical signal transmission is enabled, but energy losses occur which affect system performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by capturing the previously lost optical energy through reflector layers and redirecting it back into the waveguide. The first reflector layer beneath the grating coupler and the second reflector layer above the grating structure convert the harmful energy loss into useful reflected signals that are guided back into the waveguide, thereby improving coupling efficiency and reducing overall energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflector layers serve as intermediary elements between the grating coupler and the surrounding environment. These intermediary reflector structures capture strayed optical energy and mediate its redirection back into the waveguide, preventing direct energy loss to the substrate or surrounding areas.
2Reliability
If grating coupler structure is implemented, then optical coupling is achieved, but optical signal confinement and concentration are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the previously wasted optical energy that would have been lost into beneficial reflected signals. The reflector layers capture these strayed rays and redirect them back into the waveguide, effectively converting energy loss into additional useful optical signals that enhance coupling efficiency and signal concentration.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual reflector layer structure ensures continuous optical signal confinement and concentration. The first reflector layer continuously reflects signals from below, while the second reflector layer continuously reflects signals from above, creating an ongoing cycle of signal confinement that maintains high optical energy density within the waveguide throughout signal transmission.
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 dual-layer metal reflection layers effectively confine and concentrate optical signals, improving coupling and collection efficiency by guiding and reflecting signals back into the grating structure, thereby reducing energy losses.
Implementation Method 1
dual-layer metal reflection layers, including a backside reflector layer and a receiving reflector layer with openings, enhances optical signal coupling and collection efficiency by providing multiple reflections
Data Source
AI summary
A method of forming an optical device is provided that can include forming a backside reflector layer, and forming a cladding layer on the backside reflector layer. The method can further include forming a grating layer on the cladding layer, and forming a receiving reflector layer on the cladding layer. The receiving reflector layer can include an opening for receiving optical signal to at least the grating layer.