Multi-mode interference multiplexer with reflecting surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-mode interference multiplexer/demultiplexers face challenges in suppressing reflected return light, particularly as it is difficult to guide this light to a single-mode waveguide, leading to issues in handling incident light and potential radiation in curved waveguides, which complicates the layout of integrated circuits.
Innovation Solution
The configuration includes a multi-mode waveguide with a reflecting surface positioned to direct potential reflected return light to a single-mode waveguide, forming an image at a specific connection point, thereby guiding and removing undesired light within the system, allowing for improved handling of curved waveguides and reduced radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If potential reflected return light is guided to a multi-mode waveguide, then reflected return light is suppressed, but it becomes difficult to handle incident light and light is easily radiated when curved waveguides are formed
Solution Approach 1:
A reflecting surface is introduced as an intermediary element within the multi-mode waveguide to redirect reflected return light toward the side end. This mediator enables the light to be redirected without requiring the waveguide itself to handle the light directly, thus suppressing reflected return light while maintaining reliable light handling through proper directional guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution redirects light propagation from the longitudinal direction to the lateral direction by utilizing the side end of the waveguide. By changing the dimension of light exit from the end face to the side face, the patent enables curved waveguide layouts without light radiation, as the light exits through the side end where curvature effects are minimized.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If potential reflected return light is guided to a multi-mode waveguide, then reflected return light is suppressed, but layout of integrated circuits becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
By directing reflected light to exit through the side end of the waveguide rather than the end face, the patent enables more flexible and simplified circuit layouts. This dimensional change in light exit direction allows for easier integration into curved waveguide structures without complicating the overall circuit design.
3Ease of operation
If a reflecting surface is arranged to guide light to the side end, then light can be directed to a single-mode waveguide, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The reflecting surface utilizes the natural reflection property of interfaces within the waveguide structure itself, rather than requiring external optical components. The waveguide structure serves its own function of redirecting light through its side end, eliminating the need for additional complex light-guiding mechanisms and keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
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 configuration effectively suppresses reflected return light, facilitating the layout of integrated circuits by guiding it to a single-mode waveguide, reducing radiation and enhancing the handling of undesired light, thereby improving the performance and design of multi-mode interference multiplexer/demultiplexers.
Implementation Method 1
Light entering from the second single-mode waveguide or the third single-mode waveguide is reflected off the reflecting surface and forms an image at a first connection of the fourth single-mode waveguide
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-mode interference multiplexer/demultiplexer can suppress reflected return light while guiding light to a single-mode waveguide. The multi-mode interference multiplexer/demultiplexer includes a multi-mode waveguide, a first single-mode waveguide connected to a first end, a second single-mode waveguide opposing the first single-mode waveguide, a third single-mode waveguide connected to a second end, a reflecting surface opposing the third single-mode waveguide, and a fourth single-mode waveguide connected to a side end. Light entering from the second or third single-mode waveguide is reflected off the reflecting surface and forms an image at a first connection on a side end of the fourth single-mode waveguide.