Microlens Alignment via Optical Radiation Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical signal processing technologies face challenges in miniaturization and simple connection due to the need for precise alignment of single-mode optical waveguide elements, which is costly and time-consuming, especially in passive alignment methods.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of a spatial optical element, such as a microlens, covered with a bonding material in a semi-solid state, where light is used to align and solidify the material, enabling passive optical and mechanical connection between optical waveguide elements without the need for active alignment devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If passive alignment method is used to connect optical waveguide elements, then mounting time and cost are reduced, but alignment precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A spatial optical element (such as a microlens) is introduced as an intermediary component between the optical waveguide elements. This intermediary enables passive alignment by providing a reference structure that guides the positioning, allowing alignment to be achieved without complex active adjustment mechanisms while maintaining sufficient precision for optical coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state of the bonding material from solid to semi-solid during the alignment process. The semi-solid state allows the material to flow and adapt to the spatial optical element's position, enabling passive alignment to achieve the necessary precision. After alignment, the material solidifies to maintain the positioned configuration.
2Manufacturing precision
If active alignment method is used to connect optical waveguide elements, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity and mounting cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spatial optical element serves as a mediator that eliminates the need for complex active alignment devices. By providing a fixed reference structure with defined optical paths and positioning features, it enables precise alignment through passive means, removing the requirement for motorized stages, sensors, and control systems associated with active alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The spatial optical element is pre-positioned and fixed to one of the optical waveguide elements before the connection process. This preliminary action establishes a stable reference framework that guides the subsequent passive alignment, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustment mechanisms during the connection process.
3Strength
If bonding material is applied in solid state, then mechanical strength is improved, but alignment capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bonding material's physical state is changed from solid to semi-solid during the alignment process. The semi-solid state provides sufficient fluidity to allow the optical waveguide elements to be positioned and aligned with each other while maintaining enough cohesion to hold the configuration. After alignment is achieved, the material solidifies to provide strong mechanical bonding, thus achieving both alignment capability and mechanical strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamic characteristics to the bonding material by utilizing its phase transition between semi-solid and solid states. During alignment, the material exhibits dynamic, flowable properties that enable positioning. After alignment, it transitions to a static, rigid state that provides mechanical strength, thus adapting its properties to meet different operational requirements at different stages.
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 allows for stable and efficient passive alignment of optical waveguide elements, reducing mounting time and cost while maintaining optical connectivity, even in cases where active alignment would be complex or impractical.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one spatial optical element moves onto an optical path between the incidence and emission end faces of the at least two optical waveguide elements due to radiation pressure of light acting on the at least one spatial optical element
Implementation Method 2
changing the bonding material into a solid state after the at least one spatial optical element moves onto an optical path between the incidence and emission end faces of the at least two optical waveguide elements due to radiation pressure of light acting on the at least one spatial optical element
Data Source
AI summary
An optical waveguide alignment method includes a step of covering an end portion of an optical fiber, an end portion of a PLC, and a microlens with an adhesive before curing in a state in which at least one microlens is disposed between incidence and emission end faces of end portions of the optical fiber and the PLC, a step of causing light for alignment to be incident on at least one of the optical fiber or the PLC so that light enters a portion covered with the adhesive between the optical fiber and the PLC, and a step of curing the adhesive after the microlens moves onto an optical path between the optical fiber and the PLC due to radiation pressure of light. The optical fiber and the PLC are optically connected via the adhesive and the microlens, and the optical fiber, the PLC, and the microlens are mechanically connected by the adhesive.