Optical Interconnects with Complementary V-Groove Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical interconnects face challenges such as misalignment, signal loss, and labor-intensive alignment processes due to the use of fiber ribbons and epoxy coupling, which can degrade signal integrity and reliability in high-density optical connections.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of optical component carriers with complimentary V-shaped grooves and waveguide carriers with reverse V-shaped grooves, along with a boss and photo-sensitive adhesive, ensures precise lateral and vertical alignment of optical components and waveguides, minimizing adhesive interference and facilitating efficient signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fiber ribbons and epoxy coupling are used for alignment, then optical components can be connected, but misalignment and signal loss occur due to adhesive interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the epoxy adhesive from the alignment process entirely. Instead of using fiber ribbons that require epoxy coupling, the invention employs pre-aligned waveguide arrays with precision-machined V-grooves that mechanically hold the waveguides in position without any adhesive, thereby eliminating adhesive interference with the optical signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces precision-machined V-grooves as an intermediary structure between the optical components and waveguides. These V-grooves provide a mechanical interface that ensures precise alignment and positioning without requiring adhesive materials, thus mediating the connection in a way that prevents signal interference.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment processes are used, then optical components can be positioned, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary alignment through precision-machined V-grooves that are pre-formed in the optical component carriers and waveguide arrays. This pre-alignment mechanism eliminates the need for manual adjustment during assembly, as the components are designed to fit together with precise alignment already built into the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The V-groove structure enables self-alignment of the waveguides within the arrays. When the waveguide arrays are inserted into the optical component carriers, the V-grooves automatically position the waveguides in the correct orientation and location without requiring external alignment tools or manual intervention.
3Stability of the object's composition
If epoxy adhesive is used to secure waveguides, then components are fixed in place, but adhesive flow degrades signal integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent completely removes epoxy adhesive from the system by using mechanical V-groove positioning instead. The waveguides are secured in place through the physical structure of the V-grooves rather than chemical adhesion, eliminating the source of signal degradation while maintaining stable component positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the chemical bonding mechanism (epoxy adhesive) with a mechanical positioning system (V-grooves). This substitution eliminates the harmful effects of adhesive on optical signals while providing sufficient mechanical stability to hold the waveguides in their precise positions during operation.
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 achieves reliable and efficient alignment of optical components, reducing signal loss and maintaining consistent performance by preventing adhesive flow between waveguide and component ends, thus enhancing the integrity and reliability of optical interconnects.
Implementation Method 1
waveguide carriers with reverse V-shaped grooves, along with a boss and photo-sensitive adhesive
Data Source
AI summary
Optical interconnections and related methods are disclosed herein. An optical interconnect disclosed herein includes an optical component carrier including first grooves, the optical component carrier including an optical component including a first end, and a waveguide carrier including second grooves engaged with the first grooves, the first grooves complimentary with the second grooves, the waveguide carrier including a waveguide in a corresponding one of the second grooves, the waveguide including a second end aligned with the first end.