Multi-core Optical Fiber Coupler with Turning Mirrors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical fiber communication systems face limitations in bandwidth capacity, and existing technologies lack effective methods for efficiently coupling multi-core optical fibers to enhance transmission capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multi-core optical fiber coupler is developed, featuring a substrate with turning mirrors that change light direction from parallel to non-parallel, forming a pattern matching the optical cores of the fiber, and optically coupling waveguides to these mirrors to align with the fiber cores, enhancing light transfer and reducing back reflections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional single-core optical fibers are used, then the system structure is simple, but the bandwidth capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical fiber into multiple independent cores (e.g., 7-core, 19-core configurations) within a single cladding structure. Each core can transmit independent optical signals, effectively multiplying the bandwidth capacity while maintaining a relatively compact fiber structure that doesn't excessively increase system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-core to multi-core architecture by adding spatial dimensionality to the fiber structure. Multiple cores are arranged in specific geometric patterns (hexagonal, circular) within the cladding, utilizing spatial distribution to increase capacity without proportionally increasing overall fiber diameter or handling complexity.
2Loss of energy
If multi-core optical fibers are coupled without precise alignment, then the coupling process is simple, but the light transfer efficiency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment methods with optical field-based alignment. By using near-field optical microscopy and evanescent field coupling, the system can detect and optimize core-to-core alignment through optical signal strength measurements, achieving high precision alignment without complex mechanical positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses near-field optical imaging to create a visual copy or map of the fiber core positions and modes. This optical copy allows for precise identification of core locations and coupling conditions, enabling accurate alignment by matching the imaging pattern with the desired coupling configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If turning mirrors are added to change light direction, then the coupling flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses curved or angled turning mirrors with specific geometric profiles to redirect light between cores. The curved surfaces are designed to match the optical mode profiles, enabling efficient light direction change while maintaining coupling efficiency. The mirrors are positioned at optimized angles to achieve the desired light path transformation.
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 solution effectively increases bandwidth capacity by aligning optical cores with reflective surfaces, improving light transfer efficiency and reducing unwanted reflections, thereby enhancing the performance of multi-core optical fiber communication systems.
Implementation Method 1
each of the turning mirrors having a reflective surface oriented to change a direction of light between a direction that is parallel to the planar surface and a direction that is substantially non-parallel to the planar surface
Data Source
AI summary
An optical device comprising a multi-core optical fiber coupler. The multi-core optical fiber coupler includes a substrate having a planar surface and turning mirrors located along the planar surface, each of the turning mirrors having a reflective surface oriented to change a direction of light between a direction that is parallel to the planar surface and a direction that is substantially non-parallel to the planar surface. The turning mirrors form a lateral pattern along the planar surface, the lateral pattern being configured to approximately match a pattern of optical cores in a multi-core optical fiber whose end segment faces the pattern and is positioned substantially normal to the planar surface of the substrate.