Optical Multi-Channel Interconnect Using Transparent Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical interconnects face challenges with cross-talk and signal power loss due to the large cone angle of lasers emitting light, which complicates the coupling of individual lasers to detectors in multi-channel configurations.
Innovation Solution
An optical multi-channel free space interconnect design using transparent blocks, coupling lenses, and collimators to isolate channels and minimize beam spread, employing materials like sapphire and glass to fold and collimate light rays, reducing cross-talk and signal loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple parallel optical channels are used to increase data throughput, then productivity is improved, but optical channel isolation deteriorates due to the large cone angle of lasers causing cross-talk between adjacent channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces transparent blocks (prisms) as intermediary optical elements between the laser arrays and detectors. These prisms refract and redirect light paths, acting as mediators that spatially separate adjacent optical channels while maintaining signal transmission. The prisms enable multiple parallel channels to operate simultaneously without cross-talk by providing distinct optical pathways for each channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs three-dimensional optical path routing using transparent blocks positioned at different spatial locations. By utilizing the third dimension (vertical stacking of transparent blocks and lenses), the system creates isolated optical channels that do not interfere with each other, enabling multiple parallel transmissions without cross-talk while maintaining compact form factor.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If transparent blocks and optical elements are added to isolate channels, then cross-talk is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical interconnect system into modular segments, with each transparent block and lens assembly handling a specific optical channel. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each channel's optical path while maintaining overall system isolation. The modular approach simplifies alignment and reduces the complexity of managing multiple channels simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (refraction, collimation, focusing) into integrated transparent block assemblies. Each transparent block is positioned and configured to perform multiple optical functions simultaneously, reducing the total number of discrete optical elements needed and simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining channel isolation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If optical paths are extended to connect transmitter and detector arrays, then channel isolation is achieved, but optical signal power loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates collimating lenses that pre-align and parallelize light rays before they traverse the extended optical paths through transparent blocks. By preliminary collimating the beams, the system minimizes divergence and maintains signal intensity over longer distances, reducing power loss while achieving the necessary channel isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment systems with optically-aligned transparent block assemblies. The optical elements are positioned and oriented to naturally guide light paths through refraction and total internal reflection, eliminating the need for complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms and reducing signal loss associated with mechanical misalignment.
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 achieves significant optical channel isolation, reducing crosstalk and maintaining minimal optical signal power loss, enabling higher data throughput in multi-channel interconnects.
Implementation Method 1
light transmitted from each transmitter of the transmitter array enters through the first side and exits through the second side
Implementation Method 2
employing materials like sapphire and glass to fold and collimate light rays
Implementation Method 3
a coupling lens positioned adjacent the second side of the first block such that the light exiting the second side passes through the coupling lens
Implementation Method 4
a collimator positioned adjacent the coupling lens, the coupling lens being positioned between the first block and the collimator, wherein the light passing through the coupling lens also pass though the collimator
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the present invention provide optical multi-channel free space interconnects that provide optical channel isolation, thereby reducing crosstalk.