Integrated Laser-EAM Modulator with Optical Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of production processes in optical signal modulation systems, particularly due to the need for multiple epitaxial growths in manufacturing, leads to high production costs and reduced yields.
Innovation Solution
An optical signal modulation apparatus with a simplified structure, where each output end of a laser is connected to an electro-absorption modulator (EAM), and optical reflection and compensation components are used to synchronize and compensate optical signals, reducing the number of epitaxial growths required to two, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If three different laminar structures with three epitaxial growths are used to implement laser, passive waveguide, and EAM functions, then optimal performance for each function is achieved, but production complexity becomes highly complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines three separate function structures (laser, passive waveguide, and EAM) that previously required three different laminar structures and three epitaxial growths into a single integrated function structure. This single structure is formed through one epitaxial growth process, merging multiple functions into one unified component while maintaining optimal performance for each function.
2Manufacturing precision
If three separate epitaxial growths are performed for laser, passive waveguide, and EAM, then each structure achieves its optimal characteristics, but manufacturing time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges three separate epitaxial growth processes into a single epitaxial growth process that forms an integrated function structure containing laser, passive waveguide, and EAM regions. This single growth process maintains precise control over each functional region's characteristics while eliminating the time and cost associated with three separate growth processes.
3Volume of moving object
If a monolithically integrated laser with U-shape waveguide is used, then device size is reduced, but the number of epitaxial growths remains high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the laser cavity, passive waveguide, and EAM into a single monolithic structure formed through one epitaxial growth process. The laser cavity is positioned at a first end, the passive waveguide extends from the laser cavity, and the EAM is positioned at a second end, all within a single integrated function structure that requires only one epitaxial growth.
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 results in a less complex production process, increased product yields, and reduced unit costs, while also enabling efficient optical signal modulation and transmission with reduced power consumption and fiber costs.
Implementation Method 1
each optical reflection apparatus is configured to reflect one optical signal that is output at the first output end, so that the reflected optical signal is in a same direction as an optical signal that is output at the second output end
Implementation Method 2
each optical path compensation component is configured to perform optical path compensation on one optical signal that is output at the second output end, so that a compensated optical signal is synchronized with the optical signal that is reflected by the optical reflection apparatus
Implementation Method 3
each EAM is configured to receive one electrical signal that carries channel data, receive one of the optical signals sent by the laser, and modulate the received electrical signal onto the received optical signal for outputting
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 2C~3
Figure 4
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide an optical signal modulation apparatus and system. The optical signal modulation apparatus in the embodiments of the present invention includes: a laser, where each of at least one first output end and at least one second output end of the laser is connected to an electro-absorption modulator EAM, the first output end of the laser is disposed on one side of the laser, and the second output end is disposed on the other side of the laser; the laser is configured to generate at least two optical signals, where at least one of the optical signals is sent to at least one EAM by using the at least one first output end, and at least one of the optical signals is sent to at least one EAM by using the at least one second output end; and each EAM is configured to receive one electrical signal that carries channel data, receive one of the optical signals sent by the laser, and modulate the received electrical signal onto the received optical signal for outputting. The apparatus in the embodiments of the present invention has a simple structure, and less complex production.