Lens Assembly for PIC-to-Fiber Alignment and Signal Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Misalignment between optical fibers and photonic integrated circuits (PICs) leads to signal loss and degradation due to divergence of photonic signals during transmission.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a lens assembly that focuses and aligns photonic signals between the PIC and optical fibers, enhancing signal integrity and reducing misalignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If optical fiber is directly coupled with PIC edge connector without alignment mechanism, then device complexity is reduced, but misalignment occurs causing signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary alignment mechanism comprising a V-groove structure and positioning features that mediate between the optical fiber and PIC edge connector. This intermediary structure ensures precise alignment while maintaining relatively simple device architecture, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and reliability.
2Ease of manufacture
If optical fiber is directly coupled with PIC without alignment mechanism, then manufacturing process is simplified, but misalignment occurs during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary alignment actions through pre-formed V-grooves and positioning features on the substrate. These pre-configured structural elements perform the alignment function before final assembly, ensuring manufacturing precision while keeping the assembly process straightforward.
3Device complexity
If photonic signal is transmitted directly between PIC and optical fiber without focusing, then device structure is simpler, but signal divergence causes loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical lens as an intermediary element in the photonic signal path between the PIC and optical fiber. This lens focuses the diverging photonic signal, maintaining signal intensity and reducing loss while adding minimal complexity to the overall device structure.
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 lens assembly improves signal transmission by maintaining signal integrity and reducing loss, thereby enhancing the performance of the electronic device.
Implementation Method 1
the lens assembly may focus a photonic signal transmitted between the PIC and the optical fiber
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device may include a photonic integrated circuit (PIC) coupled with a substrate. The PIC may communicate a photonic signal with one or more optical fibers. The PIC may process the photonic signal into an electronic signal. The PIC may extend between a first end and a second end. An electronic integrated circuit (EIC) may be coupled with the substrate. The EIC may communicate with the PIC. The EIC may transmit the electronic signal to the PIC. The EIC may receive the electronic signal from the PIC. The electronic device may include a lens assembly. The lens assembly may be coupled with the first end of the PIC. In an example, optical interconnects of the PIC are aligned with the lens assembly such that the lens assembly is configured to transmit the photonic signal communicated between PIC and the optical fibers.