Optical Module Alignment Marks for Precise Fiber Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical modules face challenges in achieving accurate positioning between optical elements and optical fibers, leading to reduced light coupling efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The optical module design incorporates a base with a groove recessed in a direction opposite to the optical element, accommodating a core wire of the optical fiber without direct contact, and uses alignment marks to enhance positioning accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a light emitting element and an optical fiber are fixed on a base without special positioning structures, then the device complexity is reduced, but the positioning accuracy between the optical element and the optical fiber deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment marks are formed on the base before fixing the optical element and optical fiber. These pre-formed marks serve as positioning references that guide the accurate placement of components, ensuring high positioning accuracy without requiring complex positioning structures or procedures during assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment marks create a reference pattern that is copied or replicated during the assembly process. The marks serve as a template that guides the positioning of the optical element and optical fiber, allowing accurate reproduction of the desired spatial relationship without direct measurement or complex alignment mechanisms
2Ease of manufacture
If positioning accuracy between optical element and optical fiber is low, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the light coupling efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment marks are pre-formed on the base to establish positioning references before assembly. This preliminary preparation enables easy and accurate alignment during manufacturing, ensuring high light coupling efficiency without complicating the assembly process
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment marks provide visual indicators that facilitate easy alignment during assembly. The marks create visible references that guide positioning, ensuring accurate alignment and high light coupling efficiency while maintaining simple assembly procedures
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module includes: a base having a first surface facing a first direction, and a second surface that faces the first direction and that is away from the first surface in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction; an optical element provided on the first surface; an optical fiber fixing portion including a groove configured to at least partially accommodate a core wire obtained by removing a coating from an optical fiber; and an alignment mark provided either at a first position away from the groove in a direction opposite to the second direction or at a second position shifted from the first position in a direction opposite to a third direction orthogonal to both of the first direction and the second direction, as viewed in the direction opposite to the first direction.