Multi-Layer WDM Device Reducing Footprint via 3D Routing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) devices with small maximum angles of incidence (AOIs) require larger distances between WDM filters and ports, leading to increased device size and footprint, which results in longer optical signal paths and signal loss, affecting performance.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer WDM device design with a common layer, first and second channel layers, and optical signal routers that route demultiplexed signals between these layers, reducing the overall size and footprint by optimizing the placement and alignment of WDM filters and ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If small maximum angles of incidence (AOIs) are used in WDM filters, then filtering performance and isolation are improved, but the distance between WDM filters and ports must be increased, resulting in larger device footprint and longer optical signal paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar two-dimensional layout to a three-dimensional multi-layer configuration. WDM filters and ports are distributed across multiple vertical layers (first layer, second layer, third layer), allowing optical signals to be routed through the vertical dimension using optical signal routers. This dimensional change enables small AOI filters to be positioned close to ports in 3D space while maintaining the required lateral distances through vertical separation, thereby reducing the overall device footprint while preserving filtering performance.
2Measurement precision
If larger distances are maintained between WDM filters and ports to accommodate small AOIs, then filtering accuracy is improved, but optical signal path length increases, resulting in signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
By utilizing the vertical dimension through multi-layer configuration, the patent enables optical signals to travel shorter lateral distances between filters and ports while maintaining the required angular separation for accurate filtering. The optical signal routers guide signals through the vertical space between layers, reducing the overall optical path length and minimizing signal loss while preserving filtering accuracy through maintained angular relationships.
3Area of stationary object
If multi-layer configuration is implemented to reduce footprint, then device size is decreased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the WDM device into multiple functional layers (first layer with common ports, second layer with channel ports, third layer with WDM filters) connected by optical signal routers. This segmentation allows each layer to be independently designed and optimized, simplifying the overall system architecture despite the multi-layer configuration. The modular segmented structure makes the complex device more manageable and potentially easier to manufacture through standardized layer assembly.
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
The multi-layer design decreases the footprint size of WDM devices, especially when using small AOIs, thereby reducing signal loss and improving performance by minimizing the distance between WDM filters and ports.
Implementation Method 1
The first optical signal router is configured to route the first demultiplexed signal from the common layer to the first channel layer
Implementation Method 2
The first optical signal router is positioned to overlap the common layer and the first channel layer
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
Disclosed herein are multi-layer wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) devices that include a first optical signal router to route first demultiplexed signals from a common layer to a first channel layer and a second optical signal router to route second demultiplexed signals from the common layer to a second channel layer.