Optical Module Substrate Segmentation for Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical modules with a wavelength variable interference filter and light receiving element on a single circuit substrate face challenges in reducing the planar size while maintaining effective noise reduction and accurate wavelength control, as they are susceptible to electrical noise and require a larger substrate area for circuit elements.
Innovation Solution
The optical module design includes separate substrates for the optical filter device and light receiving element, joined by support portions with gaps for circuit element mounting, separating noise-generating and noise-susceptible circuits to reduce noise interference and increase mounting area, allowing for a reduced planar size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the optical filter device and light receiving element are mounted on a single circuit substrate, then the device structure is simple, but the planar size cannot be reduced and noise interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical module into separate substrates: a first substrate for the optical filter device and a second substrate for the light receiving element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and mounted on separate planes, reducing the overall planar footprint while maintaining functional integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar arrangement to a three-dimensional stacked configuration. By mounting the optical filter device and light receiving element on different substrates that are vertically aligned and separated by a support portion, the design utilizes the vertical dimension to reduce planar size while maintaining effective optical coupling.
2Area of stationary object
If circuit elements are densely arranged on the substrate, then the device area is reduced, but noise interference increases and measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates noise-generating circuit elements from noise-sensitive optical components by placing them on different substrates. The first substrate accommodates the optical filter device while the second substrate holds the light receiving element and associated circuits, physically isolating potential noise sources from sensitive measurement components.
Solution Approach 2:
The support portion acts as an intermediary structure between the first and second substrates. It provides mechanical support and electrical isolation, creating a controlled interface that allows signal transmission while blocking noise propagation between the two substrate planes.
3Area of stationary object
If the optical filter device and light receiving element are placed close together, then the planar size is reduced, but noise interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the proximity issue by moving the separation from the horizontal plane to the vertical dimension. The support portion creates a controlled vertical spacing between the optical filter device on the first substrate and the light receiving element on the second substrate, maintaining compact planar footprint while providing noise isolation through vertical separation.
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 enhances the accuracy of wavelength control and spectrum measurement by reducing noise influence and allowing for a smaller planar size, improving the design flexibility of electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
an optical filter device having a wavelength variable interference filter built therein
Implementation Method 2
a second substrate including a light receiving element
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module 100 includes a first substrate 11 including an optical filter device 7 having a wavelength variable interference filter 110 built therein, a second substrate 12 including a light receiving element 17, and a first supporter 16 that mechanically or electrically joins the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 to each other, in which the wavelength variable interference filter 110 and the light receiving element 17 are disposed to face each other by the first supporter 16, and the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are joined to each other by the first supporter 16 with a gap S1 in which a circuit element 21 is mountable.