Nonlinear Optical Frequency Converter for Compact UVC Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of compact and efficient light sources capable of emitting in the 190-230 nm wavelength range, which is safe for sterilization and germicidal purposes, as existing lasers do not effectively convert to these wavelengths.
Innovation Solution
A frequency converter device comprising a nonlinear optical component and a guiding module with controlled refractive index, enabling Cherenkov phase-matching for efficient wavelength conversion, utilizing photonic integrated circuits (PICs) and nonlinear materials like barium borate (BBO) to convert visible light to UVC light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lasers are used to generate light in the 190-230 nm wavelength range, then the light source can be available, but the device size is large and conversion efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the optical system by using photonic crystal structures with specific lattice constants and hole patterns to create anomalous dispersion regions. This enables phase-matching conditions for frequency conversion at specific wavelengths (193nm, 207nm, 222nm) while maintaining a compact form factor, resolving the contradiction between light source availability and device size
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite photonic crystal structures combining different materials (silicon nitride, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide) with distinct optical properties. These composite structures enable simultaneous achievement of high Q-factors, anomalous dispersion, and efficient frequency conversion, allowing compact generation of 190-230nm light from longer wavelength lasers
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional frequency conversion methods are used, then wavelength conversion can be achieved, but the conversion efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the photonic crystal structure (lattice constant, hole radius, hole pattern) to create anomalous dispersion regions that enable phase-matching for frequency conversion. This dramatically improves conversion efficiency by ensuring momentum conservation between pump and generated photons, while maintaining versatility in generating different wavelengths (193nm, 207nm, 222nm) by adjusting structural parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic photonic crystal structures with repeating unit cells containing holes arranged in specific patterns. This periodic structure creates photonic bands with anomalous dispersion, enabling efficient and versatile frequency conversion across multiple wavelengths through controlled periodic optical interactions
3Volume of moving object
If compact frequency conversion devices are designed, then device size is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the photonic crystal structure into repeating unit cells with identical or variations of hole patterns. This segmentation allows the complex compact device to be manufactured using standard photolithography techniques by fabricating identical units that can be tiled, reducing overall fabrication complexity while maintaining compact size and performance
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
Enables the generation of coherent UVC light efficiently and compactly, allowing for mass production of safe and effective germicidal devices.
Implementation Method 1
the nonlinear component or part is configured to convert the guided pump beam in the nonlinear optical material to an un-guided signal mode radiated as an output light signal at a different frequency or an equivalent wavelength
Implementation Method 2
Controlling the effective refractive index of the guiding module with respect to the refractive index of the signal light (output light signal) in the nonlinear optical component enables Cherenkov phase-matching at a corresponding/predetermined Cherenkov angle in relation to light received in the guiding module
Implementation Method 3
the bonding is configured to allow at least a part of the guided pump beam to overlap and/or evanescently couple into the nonlinear optical material
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetic radiation frequency, or equivalent wavelength, converter, the converter including a nonlinear optical component or part having or consisting of a predetermined nonlinear optical material, and a guiding module. The guiding module has a predetermined geometry defining or controlling an effective refractive index of the guiding module, and is configured to receive and guide pump light resulting in a guided pump beam. The nonlinear component or part is bonded with or joined to the guiding module. The bonding is configured to allow at least a part of the guided pump beam to overlap and/or evanescently couple into the nonlinear optical material, and the nonlinear optical component or part is configured to convert the guided pump beam in the nonlinear optical material to an un-guided signal mode radiated as an output light signal at a different frequency or an equivalent wavelength.