Laser to Fiber Coupling via Six-DOF Open Slot Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current photoplethysmographic devices face challenges in efficiently and cost-effectively coupling laser light into light guides due to the need for precise alignment and complex opto-mechanical components, limiting the use of laser-based monitors in clinical settings.
Innovation Solution
A laser to fiber coupling apparatus featuring a substrate with an open slot that allows the light guide to move in six degrees of freedom, securely affixed with adhesive, enabling flexible alignment and high optical coupling efficiency without requiring capital-intensive equipment or complex assembly processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional laser to fiber coupling methods are used, then alignment precision can be achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to capital-intensive equipment and complex opto-mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light guide from a fixed mounting configuration and allows it to move freely within the open slot, eliminating the need for complex alignment mechanisms. The light guide is secured only at its distal end, while its proximal end can translate and rotate to achieve optimal alignment with the laser, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment capability by allowing the light guide to move in six degrees of freedom within the open slot. This dynamic configuration enables the light guide to adapt its position and orientation during assembly and operation, achieving precise alignment without requiring complex fixed opto-mechanical components.
2Loss of energy
If precise alignment mechanisms are implemented, then coupling efficiency improves, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the light guide to self-align with the laser by moving freely within the open slot during assembly. The operator can manually position the light guide to achieve optimal coupling efficiency, and the adhesive then secures it in that position. This self-service alignment approach achieves high coupling efficiency without requiring complex automated alignment equipment or sophisticated opto-mechanical mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies adhesive to secure the light guide in its optimal position after alignment is achieved. This preliminary action of securing the aligned position ensures that the high coupling efficiency is maintained during operation, while the alignment process itself remains simple and does not require complex manufacturing equipment.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the light guide is securely mounted, then structural stability improves, but alignment flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mounting approach by applying adhesive only at the distal end of the light guide where it enters the open slot, rather than securing it along its entire length. This segmented mounting provides structural stability at the critical coupling interface while leaving the proximal portion free to move for alignment adjustments, thereby maintaining both stability and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive acts as an intermediary that provides structural stability without completely rigidizing the connection. The adhesive secures the light guide in its optimal position while still allowing for minor adjustments and accommodating thermal expansion, thus maintaining both structural stability and alignment flexibility.
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 solution allows for a low-cost, versatile, and efficient coupling of laser light into light guides, accommodating various laser and light guide types, reducing manufacturing complexity and enabling the development of laser-based photoplethysmographic devices with improved flexibility and thermal management.
Implementation Method 1
The light guide is securely affixed with adhesive
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of a laser to fiber coupling apparatus having a substrate 110 that supports a laser mount 120, to which is affixed a submount 130 and laser die 140, and an open slot mount 150, in which a light guide 160 is affixed with an adhesive 170, such that the light from the laser 140 is coupled into the light guide 160. The open slot arrangement permits the light guide to be moved in all six translational and rotational degrees of freedom to maximally couple the light from the laser to the light guide. Other embodiments are described and shown.