Embedded Universal Waveguide Optical Splitters for Chip Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical splitters and couplers are unsuitable for integration into chip and PCB levels due to their bulkiness and inability to split signals at ratios other than 50/50 without complex systems, and traditional methods using fiber optics or free-space mirrors are not feasible for small-scale applications due to size constraints and signal losses.
Innovation Solution
The development of embedded universal waveguide optical splitters/couplers using polymer or glass waveguides with angular trenches and mirrored facets, allowing for compact, low-loss signal splitting and combining capabilities within chip and PCB designs, with adjustable facet angles for various splitting ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional fiber optics or free-space mirrors are used for optical splitting, then signal splitting capability is achieved, but device size becomes too large for chip and PCB integration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from three-dimensional free-space optical paths to two-dimensional planar waveguide integration. By confining light propagation to flat waveguide layers on chips or PCBs, the system achieves compact integration while maintaining optical splitting functionality through engineered reflection facets within the planar structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds optical splitting functionality directly within the waveguide structure itself. The reflective facets are integrated into the waveguide core, creating a nested configuration where the splitter function is contained within the transmission medium, eliminating the need for separate external splitter components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex mirror systems are used to achieve non-50/50 splitting ratios, then signal splitting versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent varies the local properties of reflective facets at different positions within the waveguide. By adjusting facet angles, lengths, and positions at specific locations, the system achieves different splitting ratios without requiring complex multi-component systems. Each facet configuration is optimized locally to produce the desired optical power distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls splitting ratios by changing geometric parameters of the reflective facets, specifically facet angle and facet length. This simple parameter adjustment mechanism allows continuous variation of splitting ratios from 50/50 to asymmetric distributions without introducing additional complex components or mechanisms.
3Area of moving object
If angular trenches with mirrored facets are used in waveguides, then integration density is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent develops universal waveguide splitter designs that can achieve multiple splitting ratios (50/50, asymmetric, and other distributions) using the same basic angular trench and facet structure. This universality reduces manufacturing complexity because the same fabrication processes and facet geometries can be reused across different applications, compensating for the precision requirements through design standardization.
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
Enables efficient, low-cost integration of optical splitters and couplers into silicon photonics and optical PCBs with minimal signal losses, supporting versatile designs and various splitting ratios, while maintaining a small footprint compatible with chip and PCB integration.
Implementation Method 1
the mirrored first and second facets are configured to provide optical reflection into and/or from respective second and third waveguide channel cores
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an optical splitter/coupler may be created by i) providing an optical waveguide having a first waveguide channel core, ii) forming an angular trench at an end of the first waveguide channel core, the angular trench establishing first and second facets within the first waveguide channel core, and iii) mirroring the first and second facets, wherein the mirrored first and second facets are configured to provide optical reflection into and/or from respective second and third waveguide channel cores located at correspondingly opposing sides of the first waveguide channel core.