Optical Package with Free-Space Path Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical packages with integrated electronic and photonic ICs face limitations in flexibility and complexity due to rigid waveguide structures, which restrict optical signal transmission paths and require multiple switch elements for different time intervals.
Innovation Solution
An optical package design featuring an optical guiding structure that adjusts optical paths through air, using reflective surfaces and lens arrays to steer signals, eliminating the need for complex waveguides and additional switches, allowing flexible and selective transmission of multiple signals at varying time intervals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If rigid waveguide structures are used to transmit optical signals, then optical signal transmission is achieved, but flexibility and device complexity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the rigid waveguide structure from the optical transmission path and replaces it with free-space optical transmission. This extraction of the waveguide component eliminates the need for complex switching elements and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining optical signal transmission capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control of optical paths through electronic switching that directs light through air spaces rather than fixed waveguides. This dynamic switching mechanism provides flexibility in routing optical signals between different PICs without requiring physical reconfiguration of rigid structures
2Productivity
If multiple switch elements are used for different time intervals, then optical signal transmission is achieved, but package volume and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal optical transmission medium (air space) that can handle multiple optical signal transmissions at different time intervals through a single shared path. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate waveguide structures for each transmission channel, reducing package volume while maintaining high transmission speed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses time-division multiplexing where optical signals are transmitted periodically through the same air space path at different time intervals. This periodic action allows multiple signals to share the same physical medium without interference, reducing the need for multiple parallel waveguide structures
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 enhances flexibility and reduces package volume by allowing optical signals to be transmitted through air, simplifying the structure and eliminating the need for complex waveguides and additional switches, thereby increasing selectivity and reducing overall complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an optical reflective surface configured to transmit a first optical signal to the first optical device and a second optical signal to the second optical device
Data Source
AI summary
An optical package is provided. The optical package includes a first optical device and an optical guiding structure. The first optical device is disposed over a carrier. The optical guiding structure is disposed over the carrier and configured to adjust a first optical transmission path of the first optical device.