Monolithic Micro-Optic for Beam Splitting and Combining
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical systems face challenges in miniaturization due to the use of multiple discrete free-space optics, which result in high insertion loss and poor alignment tolerance, leading to suboptimal performance in beam splitting and combining applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of a multi-function micro-optic that integrates multiple optically bonded optical elements to form a single monolithic optical component, minimizing air-glass interfaces and achieving higher alignment tolerance through optical bonding techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete free-space optics are used for beam splitting and combining, then the system can perform optical functions, but the system size increases and alignment tolerance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete free-space optical elements (beam splitters, beam combiners, lenses) into a single integrated micro-optic component. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate components and their associated alignment requirements, thereby reducing system size while maintaining full optical functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The micro-optic component is designed to perform multiple optical functions (beam splitting, beam combining, focusing) within a single device. This multi-functionality replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized components, achieving both size reduction and functional versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete free-space optics are used for beam splitting and combining, then the system can perform optical functions, but alignment tolerance becomes poor
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating all optical elements into a single monolithic component, the patent eliminates the need for precise alignment between multiple discrete elements. The fixed internal geometry of the micro-optic ensures consistent optical paths without requiring post-assembly alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element positions and orientations are predetermined during the micro-fabrication process rather than requiring adjustment during system assembly. This preliminary positioning ensures optimal alignment is achieved through manufacturing precision rather than post-assembly tuning.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete free-space optics are used for beam splitting and combining, then the system can perform optical functions, but insertion loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of multiple optical functions into a single micro-optic component eliminates air-glass interfaces between discrete elements, which are major sources of insertion loss. The unified structure reduces Fresnel reflections and scattering losses that occur at each interface between separate components.
4Device complexity
If traditional PICs or PLCs are used for beam splitting and combining, then integration is achieved, but lensing is required and miniaturization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the lensing function from the traditional PIC/PLC architecture and replaces it with direct free-space optical propagation within the micro-optic component. This elimination of lensing elements removes a major size constraint and enables further miniaturization while maintaining integration benefits.
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 enables reduced propagation loss, improved miniaturization, and enhanced polarization performance compared to traditional photonic integrated circuits (PICs) or planar lightwave circuits (PLCs), while avoiding the need for lensing and minimizing insertion loss.
Implementation Method 1
a set of optical splitter surfaces configured to optically split a first input beam into a plurality of first output beams
Implementation Method 2
a set of optical combiner surfaces configured to optically combine a plurality of second input beams into one or more second output beams
Implementation Method 3
the set of optical splitter surfaces includes at least one splitting surface and at least one first reflecting surface
Data Source
AI summary
In some implementations, an optical device includes a plurality of optically bonded optical elements that form a single monolithic optical component, wherein the plurality of optically bonded optical elements comprises: a set of optical splitter surfaces configured to optically split a first input beam into a plurality of first output beams; and a set of optical combiner surfaces configured to optically combine a plurality of second input beams into one or more second output beams, wherein a set of optical paths coupling a set of inputs, to receive the first input beam and the plurality of second input beams, and the set of outputs, to output the plurality of first output beams and the one or more second output beams, are formed by the single monolithic optical component without an intermediate air interface.