Heterogeneous Optical Power Splitter Combiner Multi-Level Waveguide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical power splitter/combiners have a larger footprint and higher insertion loss than desired, limiting their efficiency in photonics chips.
Innovation Solution
A multi-level heterogeneous structure for optical power splitter/combiner is developed, featuring three waveguide cores with tapered sections positioned in different levels, allowing for efficient power splitting and combining with reduced footprint and insertion loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional optical power splitter/combiner structures are used, then the device can perform power splitting and combining functions, but the footprint area is larger than desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional planar (2D) waveguide layout to a multi-level three-dimensional (3D) structure with waveguides positioned at different vertical levels (first level, second level, and intermediate level). This dimensional change allows the optical paths to overlap in the vertical dimension, significantly reducing the horizontal footprint area while maintaining functional performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested configuration where waveguides at different levels are positioned such that their paths are interleaved or nested within each other's spatial envelope. The first and second waveguides at the first level are nested with respect to the third and fourth waveguides at the second level, allowing compact integration without increasing footprint.
2Loss of energy
If conventional optical power splitter/combiner structures are used, then the device can perform power splitting and combining functions, but the insertion loss is higher than desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the waveguides by introducing tapered sections with specific taper angles (e.g., 10-20 degrees) and controlled transition regions. These parameter changes optimize the mode coupling between waveguides at different levels, minimizing reflection and scattering losses while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies localized quality variations by introducing tapered sections only at specific locations where waveguides need to couple or transition, rather than making the entire waveguide structure complex. The tapered sections are positioned at the interfaces between different level waveguides, providing localized optimization of energy transfer while keeping other regions simple and low-loss.
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 structure achieves a smaller footprint and lower insertion loss compared to conventional designs, enhancing the performance and compactness of photonics chips.
Implementation Method 1
a first waveguide core and a second waveguide core positioned adjacent to the first waveguide core. The first waveguide core includes a first end surface and a first tapered section that tapers toward the first end surface. The second waveguide core includes a second end surface and a second tapered section that tapers toward the second end surface.
Data Source
AI summary
Structures for an optical power splitter/combiner and methods of forming a structure for an optical power splitter/combiner. A first waveguide core is positioned adjacent to a second waveguide core. The first waveguide core includes a first end surface and a first tapered section that tapers toward the first end surface. The second waveguide core includes a second end surface and a second tapered section that tapers toward the second end surface. A third waveguide core is positioned in a different level than the first waveguide core and the second waveguide core. The third waveguide core includes a third end surface and a third tapered section that tapers toward the third end surface. The third tapered section includes a portion laterally positioned between the first tapered section of the first waveguide core and the second tapered section of the second waveguide core.