Multivariate Path Control for Laser Single Mode Sweep Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies face challenges in maintaining continuous single mode operation in electromagnetic radiation sources, such as lasers, due to wavelength discontinuities and non-linearity, which are affected by environmental factors and component degradation over time.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that determine a multivariate path through a multi-dimensional space of laser control parameters to maintain optimized single mode operation by identifying sub-paths that satisfy desired wavelength conditions and maximum Side Mode Suppression Ratio (SMSR) over a range of wavelengths, allowing for controlled wavelength sweeps.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If mechanical tuning methods are used to maintain single mode operation, then single mode suppression ratio is improved, but device complexity and sensitivity to environmental changes increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesingle mode operation stabilityVSAvoidmechanical construction complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical tuning systems (such as Littman-Metcalf configurations with moving mirrors and precision mechanical stages) with an electrical control system that adjusts laser diode current. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical constructions while maintaining single mode operation through electrical control of the laser's wavelength and power characteristics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a control system that continuously monitors laser output characteristics and automatically adjusts operating parameters to maintain single mode operation. The system self-corrects for environmental changes and component aging without requiring external mechanical intervention, thereby simplifying the overall device architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Manufacturing precision

If precision alignment and tightly-toleranced components are used, then single mode suppression ratio is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecavity alignment precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the control parameter from mechanical alignment (physical position of optical components) to electrical parameters (laser diode current). By controlling the laser's operating current, the system achieves wavelength and power stabilization without requiring precision mechanical alignment, thereby simplifying manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from static precision alignment (fixed mechanical positions) to dynamic electrical control (adjustable current parameters). The system can adapt to changes in environmental conditions and component aging by dynamically adjusting electrical parameters, eliminating the need for tightly-toleranced fixed mechanical structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If environmental factors are controlled to maintain sweep profile, then wavelength linearity is improved, but system complexity and operational constraints increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewavelength sweep linearityVSAvoidenvironmental adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback control system that monitors the laser's wavelength sweep profile and adjusts the laser diode current in real-time to maintain linearity. This feedback mechanism compensates for environmental factors such as temperature changes without requiring controlled environmental conditions, thereby improving adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

4Speed

If mechanical components are used for wavelength tuning, then wavelength control is achieved, but discontinuities and non-linearities increase over time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewavelength tuning speedVSAvoidsweep continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical wavelength tuning mechanisms with electrical control of the laser diode current. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear, friction, and hysteresis effects that cause discontinuities and non-linearities, thereby improving sweep continuity and reliability over time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11101619B1System and method for creating and utilizing multivariate paths for ongoing simultaneous multi-dimensional control to attain single mode sweep operation in an electromagnetic radiation source

Publication Date: 2021.08.24 INSIGHT PHOTONIC SOLUTIONS

AI summary

A method for sweeping an electromagnetic radiation source (12) to produce single mode operation having an optimized side-mode suppression ratio over a continuous range of wavelengths within a prescribed temporal profile, the electromagnetic radiation source is configured to output electromagnetic radiation at a given wavelength based upon parameters. The method includes determining a set of parameter combinations that satisfy a condition for a desired set of wavelengths and a maximum side mode suppression ratio over the range of wavelengths. The set of parameter combinations define sub-paths for transitioning from one wavelength to another wavelength. Combinations of select sub-paths provide a multivariate path for transitioning over the range of wavelengths. The method also includes controlling the semiconductor laser to emit electromagnetic radiation over the range of wavelengths by traversing the multivariate path in a desired manner.