Ultra-small Multi-channel Optical Module with Wavelength Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) optical communication modules require significant space for optical wavelength distribution, limiting their miniaturization due to the need for maintaining predetermined gaps between channels and incident angles of light beams on optical filters.
Innovation Solution
An ultra-small multi-channel optical module design incorporating parallel light lenses, rectangular reflectors, horizontal reflectors, and optical filters to distribute and redirect light beams, reducing the required space for wavelength distribution by allowing light to move in both horizontal and vertical directions, thereby minimizing the module's size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical filters are used to distribute wavelengths with predetermined gaps between channels, then wavelength distribution is achieved, but the module size increases due to required spacing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces vertical movement of light beams through reflective surfaces, transitioning from traditional horizontal-only wavelength distribution to a two-dimensional arrangement. This vertical dimension allows optical filters to be positioned closer together while maintaining proper incident angles, thereby reducing the overall module area while preserving wavelength distribution precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the wavelength distribution function across multiple optical filters arranged in a compact configuration. Each filter handles specific wavelength ranges, and their segmented arrangement with vertical light path manipulation enables dense packing while maintaining the necessary optical performance for precise wavelength distribution.
2Reliability
If predetermined gaps are maintained between channels for optical filter operation, then optical filtering is effective, but the device becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
By utilizing vertical reflection paths, the patent creates three-dimensional light beam routing that allows channel elements to be positioned closer together in the horizontal plane. The vertical dimension compensates for reduced horizontal spacing, maintaining proper incident angles and optical filtering effectiveness while reducing overall module volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nested reflective structures where light beams are redirected through multiple reflective surfaces at different vertical levels. This nesting of optical paths allows compact arrangement of optical filters while preserving the necessary gaps for effective filtering through vertical separation rather than horizontal spacing.
3Device complexity
If light beams are directed horizontally only for wavelength distribution, then simple structure is maintained, but miniaturization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the optical path from purely horizontal to two-dimensional (horizontal and vertical) routing by introducing reflective surfaces that redirect beams vertically. This adds a vertical dimension to the light distribution architecture, enabling compact horizontal arrangement while maintaining proper optical geometry through vertical beam direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic light path redirection through reflective surfaces that can orient beams at different vertical angles. This dynamic routing capability allows flexible adjustment of light paths to accommodate compact packaging while maintaining the necessary optical distribution geometry, balancing structural simplicity with miniaturization requirements.
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 design achieves miniaturization of the optical module by reducing the space needed for wavelength distribution, enhancing the compactness of the module while maintaining effective light beam alignment and transmission.
Implementation Method 1
parallel light lenses configured to convert the light emitted by the optical elements into parallel light
Implementation Method 2
a first rectangular reflector configured to reflect the parallel light, which are converted by the parallel light lenses, in a vertical direction
Implementation Method 3
a second rectangular reflector which is disposed above the first rectangular reflector with a gap therebetween, reflects the parallel light, which are reflected by the first rectangular reflector, in a horizontal direction, and reflects parallel light, which are collinearly received, in the vertical direction
Implementation Method 4
horizontal reflectors disposed to be collinear with the second rectangular reflector with a gap therebetween and configured to reflect the parallel light, which are reflected by the second rectangular reflector, in the horizontal direction
Implementation Method 5
optical filters which are disposed between the first rectangular reflector and the second rectangular reflector, transmit the parallel light which move from the first rectangular reflector toward the second rectangular reflector, and reflect the parallel light, which move from the second rectangular reflector toward the first rectangular reflector, back toward the second rectangular reflector
Implementation Method 6
a light collecting lens configured to receive a plurality of light beams, which are emitted by the optical elements, from the horizontal reflector
Data Source
AI summary
An ultra-small multi-channel optical module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a base board, a glass substrate, a heat sink, optical elements, parallel light lenses, a first rectangular reflector, a glass cover, a second rectangular reflector, horizontal reflectors, and a light collecting lens.