Optical Modulator Mirror Structure for Efficient Beam Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical modulators face issues with reduced reflection efficiency due to the use of aluminum for metal mirrors and electrical leakage caused by the edge structure of separated metal mirrors, which affects the steering of laser beams.
Innovation Solution
An optical modulator with a mirror layer made of high reflectance metals like gold and a structure where refractive index changing areas, separated by a distance less than their width, are used to steer laser beams, reducing electrical leakage and improving optical efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If aluminum is used for metal mirrors in optical modulators, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but reflection efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite mirror structure consisting of multiple metal layers (e.g., aluminum combined with gold or silver) rather than using a single metal material. This composite approach leverages the low-cost advantage of aluminum while incorporating high-reflectance metals to improve overall reflection efficiency, thereby resolving the contradiction between manufacturing cost and reflection efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If metal mirrors are separated into multiple units, then beam steering flexibility is improved, but electrical leakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an insulating layer as an intermediary between the separated metal mirror units. This insulating layer effectively blocks electrical leakage between adjacent mirror units while maintaining their physical separation for beam steering flexibility, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and electrical leakage.
3Area of stationary object
If refractive index changing areas are closely spaced, then device area is reduced, but optical interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing selective insulating structures or spacing variations in specific regions between refractive index changing areas. This allows closely spaced areas to maintain compact device area while local insulating features prevent optical interference in critical regions, resolving the contradiction between device area and optical reliability.
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 solution enhances the optical efficiency and reduces leakage current, allowing for more precise beam steering with improved reflection characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
each of the plurality of refractive index changing areas having a refractive index that changes based on an electrical signal applied thereto
Implementation Method 2
a mirror layer provided under the active layer opposite to the plurality of antenna patterns
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an optical modulator including a plurality of unit cells, an active layer including a plurality of refractive index changing areas that are separated from each other, each of the plurality of refractive index changing areas having a refractive index that changes based on an electrical signal applied thereto, a plurality of antenna patterns provided over the active layer, and a mirror layer provided under the active layer opposite to the plurality of antenna patterns.