Optical Phased Array Emitters Perimeter Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current two-dimensional beam steering technologies for optical phased arrays are limited by the inability to space emitters close enough due to the requirement for optically isolated waveguides, resulting in a limited steering range and reduced power level in the beam of interest.
Innovation Solution
The emitter configuration layout for optical phased arrays involves arranging emitters around a perimeter without waveguides between them, allowing for closer spacing and improved radial symmetry, such as in circular patterns, to enhance steering range and power transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If waveguides are placed between emitters to provide optical isolation, then optical interference is reduced, but emitter spacing increases beyond lambda/2
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar two-dimensional emitter array to a three-dimensional configuration where waveguides are positioned vertically above or below the emitter plane. This dimensional change allows waveguides to provide optical isolation without increasing the lateral spacing between emitters, enabling closer emitter spacing while maintaining optical isolation through vertical separation.
2Reliability
If emitters are spaced further apart to accommodate waveguides, then optical isolation is improved, but steering range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By positioning waveguides in the vertical dimension rather than lateral spaces between emitters, the patent enables closer emitter spacing which expands the achievable steering range while maintaining optical isolation through the vertical separation provided by the three-dimensional waveguide configuration.
3Reliability
If emitters are spaced further apart, then optical isolation is improved, but power level in the beam of interest is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical positioning of waveguides above or below the emitter plane allows emitters to be spaced closer together (at lambda/2), which concentrates optical power into the desired beam direction and increases the power level in the beam of interest while maintaining optical isolation through the vertical dimension.
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 configuration improves the steering range and optical power transfer into a single beam, enabling more efficient beam steering without moving parts.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of emitters arranged around a perimeter... The plurality of emitters are operative to generate a single far-field peak
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of waveguides, with each of the waveguides respectively coupled to one of the emitters
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3
AI summary
An emitter configuration layout for an optical phased array comprises a plurality of emitters arranged around a perimeter, and a plurality of waveguides, with each of the waveguides respectively coupled to one of the emitters. The plurality of emitters are operative to generate a single far-field peak.