Multichannel Optical Transmitter Alignment via Far Field Spot
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for compact, low-cost optical subassemblies in multi-channel optical transmitters and transceivers to efficiently align components in free space while maintaining power during alignment, particularly for high-speed data transmission applications like 40 Gbps and 100 Gbps interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A method involving passively fixing light emitters on a substrate, adjusting lenses and filters to align light emitters with a common far field spot at the end of an optical fiber, and using pre-assembled subassemblies with precise angle accuracy to align optical components, including polarization beam combiners and isolators, to achieve optimal alignment and reduced package size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional alignment methods are used for optical components, then alignment can be performed, but the package size becomes large and alignment precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where multiple optical components (lenses, filters, beam combiners) are positioned in a compact, layered configuration within the optical subassembly. The components are arranged concentrically and in overlapping patterns to maximize space utilization, enabling precise alignment without increasing package volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional planar alignment to three-dimensional spatial arrangement, utilizing vertical stacking and angular positioning of optical components. By introducing multiple spatial dimensions for component placement, the system achieves high alignment precision while maintaining a compact footprint through z-axis layering and angular optimization.
2Stability of the object's composition
If optical components are aligned in free space with power maintained, then alignment stability is improved, but the alignment process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary alignment markings and pre-positioned mechanical stops that guide component placement before final alignment. The optical components are pre-aligned during assembly using reference marks and temporary fixtures, establishing a stable baseline configuration that simplifies the subsequent precision alignment process while maintaining power throughout.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs real-time optical feedback mechanisms during alignment, where alignment status is monitored through observable optical signals (such as beam position indicators or alignment markers visible during operation). This feedback enables continuous adjustment and verification of alignment stability while maintaining power, reducing complexity through intuitive visual cues rather than complex measurement systems.
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 approach enables efficient alignment of optical components in free space within multichannel transmitters, maintaining power during alignment and reducing the size of optical transmitters, thereby enhancing the alignment precision and stability for high-speed data transmission.
Implementation Method 1
adjusting positions of (i) a first lens through which light passes from a first one of the plurality of light emitters
Implementation Method 2
adjusting positions of (i) a first lens through which light passes from a first one of the plurality of light emitters and (ii) an optical signal transmission medium receiving the light from the first one of the plurality of light emitters until a far field spot of the light from the first one of the plurality of light emitters is at or near an end of the optical signal transmission medium
Implementation Method 3
adjusting positions of lens(es) and filter(s) (in the subassembly[ies] or independent of the subassembly[ies]) to align the light from the remaining light emitters with the far field spot
Data Source
AI summary
An optical multiplexer and methods of making and calibrating the same are disclosed. A method of aligning components in a multichannel optical/optoelectronic transmitter includes passively fixing a plurality of light emitters in place on a substrate; adjusting positions of a first lens passing light from a first light emitter and an optical signal transmission medium receiving the light from the first light emitter until a far field spot of the light from the first light emitter is at or near an end of the transmission medium; fixing one or more optical subassemblies on the substrate; and adjusting positions of the optical subassembly(ies) to align light from the remaining light emitters with the far field spot. Some embodiments include multiple optical subassemblies, each including a lens and a filter. Other embodiments include one optical subassembly including a mirror and a beam combiner.