Optical Cross-Connect Using Perpendicular 1D Deflector Arrays
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical cross-connects based on free-space light beams face limitations in port count due to the diameter of light beams and the range of MEMS mirrors, leading to compactness and manufacturing challenges.
Innovation Solution
An optical cross-connect design featuring two deflector arrays with perpendicular switching directions, separated by an angle-to-offset element, using elliptical light beams and 1D deflectors, simplifies fabrication and reduces switch size by requiring only single-axis deflection, thus allowing for a more compact and cost-effective design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If 2D arrays of dual-axis MEMS mirrors are used in optical switch cores, then beam deflection capability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the beam steering function into two separate 1D deflector arrays instead of using a single 2D deflector array. Each array handles deflection in one dimension only, segmenting the complex 2D deflection task into simpler 1D tasks that are easier to manufacture and control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a second spatial dimension for the deflector arrays by arranging them perpendicular to each other. The first array deflects beams in one dimension while the second array deflects in the perpendicular dimension, together achieving 2D beam steering through two separate 1D operations
2Quantity of substance
If 2D arrays of dual-axis MEMS mirrors are used, then port count capability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex dual-axis mirror system into two separate single-axis mirror arrays. This segmentation reduces the manufacturing precision required for each individual component, as each 1D deflector only needs to achieve precision in one dimension rather than simultaneously in two dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the deflector arrays from dual-axis rotation to single-axis tilting. This parameter change simplifies the manufacturing specifications, as single-axis MEMS mirrors have more relaxed tolerances compared to dual-axis mirrors that must maintain precise orientation in two independent directions
3Stability of the object's composition
If circular beam spots are used on MEMS mirrors, then uniform illumination is achieved, but switch size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different beam characteristics to different regions of the optical path. By using elliptical beam spots that are elongated in the switching direction, the system optimizes the local beam properties at each deflector array to match the specific deflection requirements, reducing the overall switch size while maintaining adequate illumination
4Device complexity
If parallel switching directions are used for deflector arrays, then optical path simplicity is maintained, but port count is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces perpendicular switching directions for the two deflector arrays, with the first array deflecting in one dimension and the second array deflecting in the perpendicular dimension. This dimensional change enables the system to achieve higher port counts by utilizing both spatial dimensions for beam steering, overcoming the limitations of parallel configurations
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 increases port count, reduces manufacturing costs, and achieves a more compact optical switch by utilizing elliptical beams and 1D deflectors, enhancing the efficiency and simplicity of the optical cross-connect.
Implementation Method 1
an angle-to-offset element optically disposed between the first and second deflector arrays, the angle-to-offset element having an optical axis and at least one focal length, wherein each of the first and second deflector arrays is disposed substantially at a focal plane of the angle-to-offset element such that the angle-to-offset element directs the beam of light from the first deflector array to the second deflector array
Implementation Method 2
a first deflector array optically disposed between the input port array and the output port array, the first deflector array including a first plurality of individually controllable deflectors aligned in a first array direction, each deflector in the first plurality of individually controllable deflectors having a switching direction substantially perpendicular to the first array direction
Data Source
AI summary
An optical cross-connect including two deflector arrays optically separated by an angle-to-offset (ATO) element, wherein each deflector array includes a plurality of deflectors aligned in an array direction, each deflector array having a switching direction substantially perpendicular to the corresponding array direction, the array direction of the two deflector arrays being substantially perpendicular. Beam shaping optics convert light transmitted towards the first deflector array to have an elliptical cross-section at the first deflector array, thus providing a relatively simple and compact optical cross-connect.