Laser Array WDM Multiplexing for Compact Optical Data Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical data rate connectivity systems face challenges in achieving high bandwidths, particularly in the Terahertz range, due to limitations in efficiently multiplexing and demultiplexing optical signals within confined spaces of computer systems without the need for intervening optical waveguides and couplers.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an integrated optical data system with a laser array and wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) system that combines multiple optical data signals into multi-channel signals using a compact configuration, eliminating the need for intervening waveguides and couplers by employing a WDM system with filters and birefringent crystals for multiplexing and demultiplexing, and potentially incorporating polarization multiplexing for increased channel capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If traditional optical multiplexing systems are used, then optical data transmission can be achieved, but the system occupies large space and requires complex waveguide and coupler structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex waveguide and coupler structures from the optical multiplexing system. By using laser arrays with integrated optical sources that directly emit multiplexed signals, the system removes the need for separate waveguide components and couplers, thereby reducing both space occupation and structural complexity while maintaining optical data transmission functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple optical sources into a single laser array structure that can generate multiple wavelengths simultaneously. This consolidation combines the functions of multiple separate light sources, waveguides, and couplers into one integrated component, reducing the overall system area and simplifying the device structure while achieving the same optical multiplexing effect
2Productivity
If bandwidth is increased to meet consumer demands, then data transmission capacity improves, but the system requires more complex multiplexing infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by tuning the laser array to emit at different wavelengths dynamically. By changing the optical parameters (wavelengths) of the laser sources, the system can multiplex multiple data channels through a single transmission medium, increasing data transmission capacity without requiring additional complex infrastructure for each channel
Solution Approach 2:
The laser array structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it generates multiple wavelengths, performs optical multiplexing, and transmits multiple data channels through a single output. This multi-functionality increases productivity by allowing one device to handle what would traditionally require multiple separate systems, thereby increasing data transmission capacity without proportional increases in infrastructure 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 significant cost and space reductions while achieving high bandwidth by efficiently multiplexing and demultiplexing optical signals within a compact, integrated package, allowing for the transmission of multiple data channels through a single transmission medium, thereby addressing the need for increased bandwidth in future computer systems.
Implementation Method 1
A first optical data signal of each of the plurality of sets of optical data signals having a first wavelength is reflected from a wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) filter
Implementation Method 2
employing a WDM system with filters and birefringent crystals for multiplexing and demultiplexing
Data Source
AI summary
An optical data system and method are disclosed. The system can be an integrated optical data transmission system that includes an array of lasers that are modulated by a plurality of modulation signals to provide a plurality of sets of optical data signals. Each of the optical data signals in each of the plurality of sets can have a distinct wavelength. The system can also include a wavelength division multiplexing system to combine each of the plurality of sets of optical data signals to generate a plurality of multi-channel optical data signals that are transmitted via a respective plurality of optical transmission media.