Integrated Lens in Laser Micro Package for Optical Signal Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current copper data channels face limitations such as signal attenuation and crosstalk due to radiated electromagnetic energy, which are difficult to mitigate with existing techniques like equalization, coding, and shielding, especially in high data rate applications.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a focusing element, either a lens or a metalens, directly on a semiconductor substrate with a laser source, and a hermetically sealed package with a turning mirror, allows for efficient optical signal transmission and alignment with photonic chips, minimizing the need for additional components like Faraday rotators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional copper data channels are used for high data rate transmission, then signal attenuation and crosstalk occur due to radiated electromagnetic energy, but equalization, coding, and shielding techniques require considerable power, complexity, and cable bulk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces copper electrical signal transmission with optical signal transmission using a laser source. This substitution eliminates the fundamental limitations of copper channels (signal attenuation, crosstalk, electromagnetic radiation) that require complex equalization, coding, and shielding techniques. The optical communication system achieves high data rates without the complexity penalties of electrical signal conditioning.
2Loss of energy
If larger lenses or additional components are used for optical signal focusing and alignment, then optical transmission efficiency improves, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the laser source and focusing lens into a single integrated package. The lens is positioned in close proximity to the laser source, eliminating the need for separate alignment components and reducing the overall device footprint. This integration maintains efficient optical coupling while minimizing the number of discrete components required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a compact packaging structure where the lens is nested within or adjacent to the laser source housing. The turning mirror is integrated into the same package, creating a nested arrangement of optical components that achieves efficient signal transmission without requiring additional external components or increasing overall device complexity.
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
This approach enables miniaturization and reduces optical loss by eliminating the need for larger lenses or additional components, while providing a compact and efficient optical device suitable for high data rate applications.
Implementation Method 1
the lid comprises a turning mirror that is arranged to receive an optical signal from the laser source and reflect the optical signal to the focusing element
Implementation Method 2
a focusing element at a first surface of the semiconductor substrate... the optical signal passes through the focusing element and the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments herein describe optical devices that include focusing elements in or on a substrate on which a laser source is disposed. That is, the focusing element can be arranged on a same surface of the substrate as the laser source. In one embodiment, the laser source emits an optical signal that is parallel with the same surface of the substrate. A turning mirror can be used to direct the optical signal in a direction perpendicular to the surface so that the optical signal is incident on the focusing element.