One-Sided Free-Space WDM Device Using Beam Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical wavelength multiplexing and add/drop devices require significant space due to double-sided fiber ports, leading to inefficiencies in routing and increased dimensions, which hinders the compactness and flexibility needed for advanced communication networks.
Innovation Solution
A compact free-space optical device design with all input/output ports on one side, utilizing beam folding components like prisms or mirrors to create parallel light paths and dual-port collimators, which reduces the device size and eliminates routing overhead.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If double-sided fiber ports are used in free-space WDM devices, then fiber routing is required which increases device dimension, but one-sided ports eliminate routing overhead and reduce device size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by transitioning from symmetric double-sided ports to asymmetric one-sided ports. All input and output fiber ports are positioned on a single side of the device housing, eliminating the need for internal fiber routing between opposite sides. This asymmetric port configuration directly reduces the device footprint and eliminates routing overhead while maintaining all necessary optical functions.
2Length of stationary object
If fiber routing is implemented to connect double-sided ports, then minimum bend radius constraints increase device dimension, but beam folding components eliminate fiber routing and reduce device size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical fiber routing system with an optical beam folding system. Instead of physically routing fibers through the device interior subject to bend radius constraints, the invention uses beam folding components (prisms or mirrors) to redirect optical beams. This substitution eliminates fiber bending constraints and reduces the device length significantly, as beam folding can achieve the same spatial redirection with minimal component footprint.
3Area of stationary object
If one-sided ports are implemented, then routing space is halved, but device compactness is further enhanced by beam folding components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by introducing beam folding components that operate in the optical path dimension rather than requiring spatial routing in the mechanical dimension. By using prisms or mirrors to fold beams at specific angles, the system achieves compact spatial arrangement without increasing manufacturing complexity. The beam folding approach consolidates multiple routing functions into single angular redirection operations, enhancing compactness while maintaining ease of manufacture.
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 enables a smaller footprint, broader operating wavelength range, enhanced performance, lower costs, and simplified manufacturing, addressing the space constraints and flexibility demands of modern communication networks.
Implementation Method 1
a beam folding means to turn a light beam from the first collimator back to the second collimator by two turns
Implementation Method 2
a first collimator with a dual-fiber pigtail acting as a common (C) port and a reflection (R) port; a second collimator with a single fiber as a transmission (T) port
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for designing compact free-space optical device with all input/output ports on one side are disclosed. Instead of folding a fiber, a beam folding means is provided to turn a light beam to significantly reduce the size of the device. In one embodiment, there are a first collimator, a second collimator, and a beam folding means to turn a light beam from the first collimator back to the second collimator by two turns so that a first light path from the first collimator to the beam folding means and a second light path from the second collimator to the beam folding means are parallel. A substrate is provided to which the first and second collimators and filters are boned thereto.