Integrated Laser Photodetector Chip for Optical Subassemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical transceiver modules require significant space for separate optical transmitter and receiver components, limiting the density and efficiency of data transfer in high-speed communication networks.
Innovation Solution
An integrated semiconductor device with an optical transmitter and receiver on a single chip, utilizing a substrate and optical filter to allow simultaneous transmission and reception of optical signals with distinct wavelengths, reducing spatial requirements and enabling increased device density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If separate optical transmitter and receiver components are used, then the reliability and functionality of the optical subassembly is maintained, but the space occupied by the optical subassembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the optical transmitter (laser) and optical receiver (photodetector) onto a single integrated chip, merging previously separate components into one unified device. This integration directly reduces the volume occupied by the optical subassembly while maintaining the functional capabilities of both transmitter and receiver through wavelength-division multiplexing
2Volume of moving object
If integrated laser and photodetector chip is used, then the space occupied by optical subassembly is reduced, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring distinct wavelengths increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical filter as an intermediary component positioned between the photodetector and the optical fiber. This filter selectively transmits specific wavelengths (e.g., 1310nm or 1490nm) while blocking others, enabling the integrated photodetector to distinguish between different wavelength signals without requiring complex detection electronics
3Productivity
If separate transmitter and receiver components are used, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the productivity of data transfer system decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of transmitter and receiver on a single chip reduces the physical distance and component interfaces, enabling faster signal processing and higher data transfer rates. The compact design allows for more efficient coupling with optical fibers and reduces signal loss, directly improving the productivity of the data transfer system
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 integrated solution allows for compact, high-density optical subassemblies that can simultaneously transmit and receive multiple optical signals, enhancing the efficiency and speed of data transfer in communication systems.
Implementation Method 1
an optical filter configured to allow the transmission therethrough of optical signals having a first predetermined range of wavelengths, while blocking the transmission therethrough of optical signals having a second predetermined range of wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
an optical receiver (also referred to as an 'optoelectronic transducer'), an example of which is a photodiode. The optoelectronic transducer receives light and generates a current
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device with an integrated optical transmitter and optical receiver is disclosed that can be used in an optical subassembly. The device may include a substrate, a first component, an optical filter, and a second component, wherein the first component comprises an optical transmitter and the second component comprises an optical receiver, or vice versa. The first component can be configured to emit (or be sensitive to) a first optical signal having a first wavelength while the second component can be configured to be sensitive to (or emit) a second optical signal having a second wavelength. The optical filter can be configured to allow transmission therethrough of optical signals having the first wavelength while blocking optical signals having the second wavelength.