Multi-plane conversion device phase mask optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for designing multi-plane light conversion (MPLC) devices are limited by the need for a large number of phase masks and are constrained to specific mode bases and beam arrangements, lacking flexibility and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A method for designing an MPLC device that involves defining mode families with separable spatial variables and optimizing the spatiofrequential phase shift of phase masks to transform modes between these families, allowing for a smaller number of phase masks and greater freedom in choosing mode bases and beam arrangements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If conventional design methods are used to determine phase mask characteristics, then the transformation can be implemented, but a large number of phase masks are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of phase masksVSAvoiddesign complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the design problem by changing the parameter space from direct phase mask optimization to mode family selection. By defining first and second mode families with separable spatial variables and establishing correspondence between their index pairs, the design converts to determining spatiofrequential phase shifts that transform modes from one family to another, significantly reducing the number of required phase masks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the transformation problem into independent mode transformations. Each mode of the first mode family with index pair {i,j} is transformed independently into the corresponding mode of the second mode family with the same index pair. This segmentation allows the overall transformation to be achieved with fewer phase masks by treating each mode pair as a separate transformation task

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional design methods are used, then transformation can be achieved, but freedom of choice in mode bases and beam arrangements is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefreedom in mode base selectionVSAvoiddesign constraints
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal design framework that works with any mode families having separable spatial variables. The method is not constrained to specific mode bases (e.g., Gaussian, Laguerre-Gaussian, Hermite-Gaussian) or specific beam arrangements. The correspondence between index pairs of different mode families enables versatile application across various optical transformation scenarios

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

By changing the fundamental parameter from fixed mode base selection to flexible mode family selection with separable variables, the patent enables adaptability. The spatiofrequential phase shift formulation allows transformation between any mode families that satisfy the separability condition, providing freedom in choosing mode bases and beam arrangements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 the implementation of a predetermined transformation using a small number of phase masks, providing flexibility in mode bases and beam arrangements, and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining high transformation efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of phase masks intercepting a light radiation to apply, respectively, thereto a spatiofrequential phase shift leading to a predetermined transformation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhase shift: Phase Modulation

Data Source

PatentUS12210148B2Multi-plane conversion device
Publication Date: 2025.01.28 CAILABS
  • US12210148B2 patent drawing
  • US12210148B2 patent drawing
  • US12210148B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for multi-plane conversion of a first light radiation having a conversion block comprising a plurality of optical parts and implementing a plurality of phase masks to apply a spatiofrequential phase shift for producing a second light radiation—a predetermined transformation, known as a transformation with separable variables. The predetermined transformation may link N modes of index {i, j}k, 1<=k<=N, of a first used mode family with separable spatial variables (x,y) describing the first light radiation in a first transverse plane with n modes of the same index {i, j}k 1<=k<=N, of a second used mode family with separable spatial variables (x,y) describing the second light radiation at a second transverse plane. The N modes of the second mode family are not Hermite-Gaussian modes. The N modes of the first mode family are not arranged on the first transverse plane in the form of a triangle.