Optical Module Layout for Stray-Light-Isolated Wavelength Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Stray light generated due to reflection or scattering in optical devices within an optical module can negatively impact the detection accuracy of the wavelength detecting unit.

Innovation Solution

The optical module is designed with a configuration where the first incident surface of the wavelength detecting unit is positioned away from the second incident surface of the optical device in an opposite direction, effectively isolating the wavelength detecting unit from stray light generated by the optical device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If optical devices are housed in the same housing as the wavelength detecting unit, then the optical module can be compact, but stray light from the optical device can fall onto the wavelength detecting unit and reduce detection accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehousing volumeVSAvoidwavelength detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The housing is divided into a light-shielding chamber that houses the optical device and a detection chamber that houses the wavelength detecting unit. This segmentation physically separates the light source from the detector while maintaining compact overall dimensions, preventing stray light from reaching the detector.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A light-shielding member is introduced as an intermediary element between the optical device and the wavelength detecting unit. This member blocks stray light paths while allowing the optical signal to pass through, mediating the interaction between the two components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Length of moving object

If the wavelength detecting unit is positioned close to the optical device, then the optical path length is reduced, but stray light from reflection or scattering in the optical device can interfere with the detection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical path lengthVSAvoidstray light interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The harmful stray light is extracted or removed from the optical path by positioning the wavelength detecting unit in a location where stray light from the optical device cannot reach it, while the useful optical signal is guided to the detector through controlled optical paths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The spatial arrangement transitions from a one-dimensional linear path to a three-dimensional configuration where the wavelength detecting unit is positioned in a different spatial plane, allowing the useful signal to reach the detector while blocking stray light paths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 significantly reduces the impact of stray light on the wavelength detecting unit, enhancing detection accuracy and improving the overall performance of the optical module.

Implementation Method 1

a wavelength detecting unit configured to detect wavelength of a first light which is output in a first direction from the light emitting device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

an optical device housed in the housing and configured to receive input of a second light traveling substantially parallel to the first light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS20250328054A1Optical module
Publication Date: 2025.10.23 FURUKAWA ELECTRIC CO LTD
  • US20250328054A1 patent drawing
  • US20250328054A1 patent drawing
  • US20250328054A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical module includes: a housing; a light emitting device housed in the housing; a wavelength detecting unit configured to detect wavelength of a first light which is output in a first direction from the light emitting device housed in the housing; and an optical device housed in the housing and configured to receive input of a second light traveling substantially parallel to the first light. A first incident surface of the wavelength detecting unit, on which the first light falls, is positioned away from a second incident surface of the optical device, on which the second light falls, in an opposite direction of the first direction.