Edge Coupler and Deflector Structure for Low-Loss Optical Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in chiplet-based system-on-a-chip (SoC) designs is the inefficient optical coupling between photonic chiplets and optical transmitters or receivers due to the wavelength sensitivity and polarization specificity of grating couplers, leading to loss of optical signals.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an edge coupler and a deflector structure within the photonic chip, where the deflector redirects optical signals from a peripheral region to the edge coupler, which is polarization independent, enhancing optical coupling efficiency by minimizing signal loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If grating couplers are used for optical coupling, then optical coupling can be achieved, but wavelength sensitivity and polarization specificity cause signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a deflector structure as an intermediary component between the optical fiber and the edge coupler. This deflector redirects optical signals that would otherwise be lost, enabling efficient coupling across a broader range of wavelengths and polarizations by mediating the optical path between the input fiber and the coupling structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical coupling system is segmented into distinct functional components: the edge coupler for polarization-independent coupling, the deflector structure for redirecting optical signals, and the optical fiber array. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, with the edge coupler handling polarization independence and the deflector handling wavelength-range expansion.
2Device complexity
If a single IC chip is used for SoC, then integration is simplified, but functionality and scalability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: photonic chiplets containing optical coupling structures, electrical chiplets for signal processing, and interconnect structures. This segmentation enables independent optimization of each module while maintaining overall system integration, allowing scalability and functional expansion without redesigning the entire SoC.
Solution Approach 2:
The edge coupler and deflector structure are designed as universal components that can be integrated into multiple different photonic chiplet configurations. These structures provide multi-functional capability, supporting both optical coupling and signal deflection functions, and can be adapted to work with various wavelengths and polarizations, making them applicable across different SoC designs and functional requirements.
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 deflector and edge coupler configuration significantly improves optical coupling between the photonic chip and the optical transmitter or receiver, increasing the overall performance of the electronic system by efficiently transmitting a wide range of wavelengths with minimal loss.
Implementation Method 1
the deflector structure is configured to redirect an optical signal traveling along a first direction to a second direction towards the edge coupler
Implementation Method 2
edge coupler laterally adjacent to the deflector structure... the edge coupler is configured to receive the optical signal deflected by the deflector structure
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards a semiconductor device including a dielectric structure disposed on a first substrate. An edge coupler is disposed within the dielectric structure and comprises a plurality of optical core segments. A deflector structure is disposed within the dielectric structure and is laterally adjacent to the edge coupler. The deflector structure is configured to redirect an optical signal traveling along a first direction to a second direction towards the edge coupler.