Multicore Fiber Coupler Using Layered Waveguide Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack a simple and low-cost method for coupling light between multicore fibers and optical waveguides, with existing solutions facing challenges in rotational alignment, optical crosstalk, and high insertion loss, particularly in high-volume applications.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for coupling light using an optical connector with an array of optical waveguides arranged in layers to match the geometry of multicore fibers, enabling passive rotational and translational alignment, and incorporating lens elements for improved coupling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If active alignment methods are used to couple multicore fibers to optical waveguides, then coupling efficiency can be optimized, but the process becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate waveguide layer as a mediator between the multicore fiber and the optical waveguide. This intermediate layer enables passive alignment by providing a geometric matching interface, eliminating the need for time-consuming active alignment processes while maintaining efficient light coupling through the waveguide structure.
2Reliability
If custom optoelectronic device arrays are used to match the geometry of multicore fibers, then coupling can be achieved, but the complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal geometric matching approach where the intermediate waveguide layer can accommodate standard optoelectronic devices without requiring custom geometry matching. The waveguide structure serves multiple functions: it provides passive alignment, maintains coupling reliability, and works with standard device arrays, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
3Loss of energy
If two-lens optical relays are used for coupling, then efficient coupling can be achieved, but fiber density is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar two-lens optical relay coupling to a three-dimensional intermediate waveguide structure. This dimensional change enables tighter fiber spacing and higher fiber density while maintaining efficient coupling, as the waveguide layers can be positioned in the vertical dimension to match core geometries without requiring large horizontal clearances.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If apertures are used to avoid optical crosstalk, then crosstalk is reduced, but insertion loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate waveguide layer acts as a mediator that provides geometric matching between fiber cores and waveguides, enabling precise spatial alignment. This eliminates the need for apertures to prevent crosstalk, as the waveguide structure itself defines the optical paths, thereby reducing insertion loss while maintaining crosstalk suppression through proper geometric design.
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 provides a cost-effective and efficient means to couple light between multicore fibers and optical waveguides, reducing crosstalk and insertion loss while enabling the use of standard optoelectronic devices, thus enhancing bandwidth density and suitability for high-volume applications.
Implementation Method 1
coupling of an optical waveguide to a multicore fiber... coupling light between a multicore fiber and an optical waveguide element
Implementation Method 2
incorporating lens elements for improved coupling efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connector includes a fiber element incorporating one or more optical fibers, the optical fiber including a plurality of cores, and an optical element including an array of optical waveguides arranged in one or more layers so as to match the geometry of the plurality of cores of the optical fiber.