Gap-Optics Optical Switch for Efficient SLM Port Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical wavelength selective switches (WSSs) are limited by the use of two separate SLM devices, which are expensive and limit the compactness and capacity of the switch due to inefficient utilization of the SLM planes, restricting the number of accessible output ports and diffraction efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An optical switch design utilizing a single programmable deflection plane with a beam steering optical device positioned between the deflection planes to redirect beams through a gap, allowing for more efficient use of the SLM area and increasing the number of switchable positions and capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate SLM devices are used in conventional WSS, then the switch can route optical signals, but the SLM plane utilization is inefficient and the number of accessible output ports is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of two separate SLM devices into a single SLM device by introducing a beam steering optical device that redirects beams through a gap, allowing one SLM to perform the work of two while improving area utilization efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional approach by positioning a beam steering optical device between the SLM and the output ports, creating a gap through which beams are redirected. This adds a spatial dimension to the beam path that allows more efficient packing of output ports
2Ease of operation
If two separate SLM devices are used in conventional WSS, then the switch can be implemented, but the overall switch size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate SLM devices into one by introducing a beam steering optical device that handles the additional routing function, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining full switch functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The single SLM device in the patent performs multiple functions: it both diffracts the input beams and works in conjunction with the beam steering optical device to route signals to multiple output ports, making the system more universal and less complex
3Productivity
If two separate SLM devices are used in conventional WSS, then the switch can operate, but diffraction efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing the beam steering optical device and utilizing a gap in the optical path, the patent creates an additional spatial dimension that allows more SLM area to be dedicated to diffraction, thereby improving diffraction efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The beam steering optical device creates a virtual copy of the beam path through the gap, allowing the single SLM to effectively serve multiple output ports without requiring additional physical SLM area, thus improving diffraction efficiency
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 design achieves a more compact and high-capacity WSS by optimizing the use of SLM planes, enabling efficient routing of optical signals with increased port utilization and improved diffraction efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The LCOS device applies a holographic beam deflection to the spectrum of channels incident on it to direct each channel from the N input spectra towards the M spectra on a second SLM plane
Implementation Method 2
The second SLM plane applies an angle deflection to the light incident on it to direct it towards the output ports
Implementation Method 3
an optical structure positioned in the optical path between the first and second programmable deflection planes at an image plane of the first programmable deflection plane, the optical structure configured to enable the deflected first and second sets of beams from the second programmable deflection plane to be directed to the set of output ports through a gap in the images projected on the image plane
Implementation Method 4
The dispersed channels are focussed through lens 305 to a spatial light modulator (SLM) plane 306
Data Source
AI summary
An optical switch comprising sets of input and output ports, each input and output port configured to transport an optical signal having at least one component frequency channel. The switch comprises a first programmable deflection plane configured to deflect images incident on it from the set of input ports, and a second programmable deflection plane configured to deflect first and second sets of beams incident on it from the first programmable deflection plane towards the set of output ports. The switch also comprises an optical structure positioned in the optical path between the first and second programmable deflection planes at an image plane of the first programmable deflection plane, configured to enable the deflected first and second sets of beams from the second programmable deflection plane to be directed to the set of output ports through a gap in the images projected on the image plane.