Optical Connector Lens-Array Coupling for PIC–FAU Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical communication systems face challenges in achieving accurate coupling between photonic integrated circuits (PIC) and fiber array units (FAU), leading to inefficiencies in optical signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
An optical connector is designed with a first lens array coaxially aligned with the optical axis of a fiber array unit (FAU) through a through hole, allowing precise alignment and detachable connection of PIC and FAU, enhancing signal transmission efficiency and ease of assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a chip like photonic integrated circuit (PIC) and fiber array unit (FAU) are used to improve integration density, then transmission speed and transmission distance are improved, but coupling accuracy between PIC and FAU deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A lens array is introduced as an intermediary component between the PIC and FAU. The lens array receives optical signals from the PIC and focuses them onto the FAU, enabling accurate coupling without direct contact between the PIC and FAU. This mediator component simplifies the coupling process and improves alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical connection system is divided into separate functional modules: the PIC module, the lens array module, and the FAU module. Each module can be independently manufactured and aligned, which improves the overall coupling accuracy by allowing precise positioning of each component without requiring perfect alignment between all components simultaneously.
2Productivity
If PIC and FAU are directly connected to implement optical signal transmission, then transmission efficiency is improved, but assembly complexity and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lens array serves as a mediator that simplifies the assembly process. Instead of requiring direct alignment between PIC and FAU, the lens array provides a standardized interface that eases the coupling process and reduces assembly difficulty while maintaining high transmission efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens array is pre-positioned and fixed in the connection assembly before the PIC and FAU are installed. This preliminary positioning establishes a reference framework that guides the subsequent alignment of PIC and FAU, simplifying the overall assembly process and reducing the skill level required for installation.
3Reliability
If a fixed connection structure between PIC and FAU is used to ensure stable transmission, then transmission stability is improved, but maintenance and replacement difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection assembly is designed as a modular structure with the lens array, PIC, and FAU as separate replaceable modules. This segmentation allows the FAU to be quickly removed and replaced without affecting the PIC or lens array, enabling easy maintenance and repair while maintaining stable transmission during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structure incorporates detachable and adjustable elements that allow the FAU to be easily removed and repositioned. This dynamic design provides both stable transmission during operation and ease of maintenance when needed, balancing reliability with serviceability.
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 design improves coupling accuracy and transmission efficiency while simplifying assembly and maintenance, reducing signal loss, and enabling quick replacement of damaged components.
Implementation Method 1
a first lens array, a connection assembly, and an FAU. A through hole is provided in the connection assembly, the first lens array is disposed in the through hole
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connector and an optical communication system are provided. The optical connector includes: a first lens array (20), a connection assembly (30), and an FAU (40). A through hole (31) is provided in the connection assembly (30), the first lens array (20) is disposed in the through hole (31), the FAU (40) is fastened in the through hole (31) from a first end of the connection assembly (30), and an optical axis of the FAU (40) is coaxially disposed with an optical axis of the first lens array (20). The optical connector implements accurate coupling between the PIC (10) and the FAU (40) by implementing transmission of an optical signal between the PIC (10) and the FAU (40). This ensures efficient transmission of the optical signal between the PIC (10) and the FAU (40) during sending and receiving of the optical signal.