Liquid Crystal Programmable Beam Blocker for Optical Switches
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical circuit switches (OCS) face limitations in dynamically blocking light beams without damaging MEMS mirror arrays, as methods like parking require high voltages and inking is a static process that cannot be performed in real-time.
Innovation Solution
A programmable beam blocker using liquid crystal materials that can selectively block or allow light beams through a grid of pixel modulators, allowing for dynamic control of light transmission and shaping of beam profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If parking method is used to prevent light beam transmission, then beam blocking is achieved, but high voltages are required which can damage or prematurely age the MEMS mirror array
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a beam blocking plate as an intermediary component between the light source and the MEMS mirror array. This plate selectively blocks specific light beams from reaching the camera sensor while allowing other beams to pass through. By using this intermediary blocking mechanism, the system prevents unwanted beam transmission without applying high voltages to the MEMS mirrors themselves, thereby protecting the mirror array from damage and premature aging.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If inking or epoxy is used on a plate to block light beams, then beam blocking is achieved, but the process is static and cannot be performed in real-time during OCS operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic beam blocking solution by replacing static inking or epoxy methods with an actively controllable beam blocking plate. This plate can be selectively positioned or configured to block specific light beams in real-time during OCS operation. The dynamic nature of this mechanism allows the system to adaptively control beam transmission based on operational requirements, enabling flexible and reversible beam blocking without permanent modifications to the optical path.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a programmable beam blocker with liquid crystal pixels is used, then real-time beam blocking and shaping is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical beam blocking methods with a programmable beam blocker utilizing liquid crystal pixel modulators. This substitution enables real-time, software-controlled manipulation of light beams including blocking, shaping, and intensity modulation. The liquid crystal pixels can be individually addressed through circuitry, allowing precise control over beam characteristics without mechanical movement. While this increases device complexity compared to simple mechanical shutters, it provides superior adaptability and real-time control capabilities essential for dynamic OCS operations.
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
Enables real-time, voltage-controlled blocking and shaping of light beams, preventing damage to MEMS mirrors and allowing for efficient operation of OCS without the need for physical modifications, thereby improving the dynamic control and reliability of optical switching.
Implementation Method 1
When a circuit is complete on an individual pixel, a voltage is applied to a liquid crystal material in the pixel. In response to the voltage, the liquid crystal material in the pixel changes phase state, and thus, shifts from a transmissive state, where photons can pass through the liquid crystal materials, to a non-transmissive state, wherein the beam of light hitting the pixel is blocked from transmission.
Data Source
AI summary
A programmable beam blocker includes a liquid crystal based grid of pixels, one or more groups of pixels, or plurality of pixels, corresponding to individual beams of light. The application of a voltage through one pixel can change the phase of the liquid crystal material to prevent the transmission of light through it.