Optical Connector Layout for Wavelength-Multiplexed Channel Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical connectors face challenges in simplifying the arrangement of light-emitting or light-receiving devices and efficiently increasing the number of communication channels in multiplexing or demultiplexing structures using a single optical fiber.
Innovation Solution
The optical connector features a base substrate with optical devices arranged in a curved shape around an optical fiber, utilizing a diffraction grating or prism to diffract or refract light at different angles based on wavelength bands, and includes alignment guides to simplify device arrangement and increase channel capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple light-emitting or light-receiving devices are arranged in a multiplexing or demultiplexing structure using a single optical fiber, then the number of communication channels increases, but the arrangement complexity and structural limitations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by arranging multiple optical devices along a curved path or arc rather than a straight line. This curved arrangement allows multiple devices to be positioned around the optical fiber in a compact configuration, enabling increased channel capacity while maintaining manageable structural complexity and avoiding linear space constraints.
2Area of stationary object
If optical devices are arranged in a compact multiplexing structure, then space utilization improves, but alignment precision and manufacturing difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into modular segments, with each optical device positioned at discrete locations along the curved path. This segmentation allows for standardized mounting positions and simplified alignment procedures, as each device can be independently positioned and adjusted without requiring precise coordination across the entire array, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision despite compact arrangement.
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 allows for easy expansion of communication channels without structural limitations, simplifying the arrangement of devices and enhancing the efficiency of multiplexing and demultiplexing operations using a single optical fiber.
Implementation Method 1
an optical path changing device between the optical fiber and the plurality of optical devices and configured to diffract or refract incident light at different angles according to wavelength bands of the incident light
Implementation Method 2
an optical path changing device between the optical fiber and the plurality of optical devices and configured to diffract or refract incident light at different angles according to wavelength bands of the incident light
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical connector includes: a base substrate; an optical fiber on the base substrate; a plurality of optical devices having different wavelength bands and arranged in a curved shape concave toward the optical fiber to surround an end surface of the optical fiber; and an optical path changing device between the optical fiber and the plurality of optical devices and configured to diffract or refract incident light at different angles according to wavelength bands of the incident light. According to the optical connector, the arrangement of a plurality of light-emitting or light-receiving devices may be simplified and the number of communication channels may be easily increased in a multiplexing or demultiplexing structure in which a plurality of communication channels are provided using a single optical fiber.