Integrated Optical Beam Scanner Using Grating Couplers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lens-based optical systems used in free-space optical communication and energy transfer are bulky and expensive, making them unsuitable for integration into compact devices like smartphones and tablets.
Innovation Solution
The development of photonic integrated circuit (PIC) based optical systems that utilize grating couplers to form and scan optical beams, enabling a thin and flat form factor suitable for integration into handheld devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lens-based optical systems are used, then optical beam formation and scanning can be achieved, but the system becomes bulky and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical lens-based optical systems with a photonic integrated circuit that uses grating couplers and waveguides to form and scan optical beams. The PIC uses diffraction gratings etched into the substrate to redirect light at specific angles, eliminating the need for bulky mechanical lenses and mirrors while maintaining beam formation and scanning capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters of the optical system by transitioning from continuous optical paths in lens systems to discrete waveguide modes in integrated circuits. The grating couplers use sub-wavelength periodic structures to control light propagation, enabling compact beam steering through phase modulation rather than mechanical movement
2Reliability
If conventional lens-based optical systems are used, then optical beam formation can be achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple discrete optical components (lenses, mirrors, beam splitters) into a single integrated photonic circuit chip. The grating couplers, waveguides, and phase modulators are fabricated together in one monolithic structure using standard semiconductor manufacturing processes, significantly reducing assembly costs and improving manufacturing scalability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses photolithography and other semiconductor fabrication techniques to create precise optical structures that can be mass-produced. The grating coupler patterns are defined by masks and replicated across the entire wafer, enabling high-volume manufacturing with consistent performance and reduced per-unit cost
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 solution allows for high-efficiency, high-data-rate optical communication and energy transfer in compact devices, while minimizing energy density loss and eliminating the need for bulky optics.
Implementation Method 1
utilize grating couplers to form and scan optical beams
Data Source
AI summary
An optical beam scanning semiconductor device includes 1×N electrically controlled, integrated optical switch matrix and specifically designed integrated optical grating output couplers at each of N output waveguides of 1×N switch. By selecting one of the N outputs of the 1×N switch as the output of the input optical signal, an optical output beam scans in free space. Variation in the grating output coupler design enables a smart scanning device with multiple controllable beam characteristics.