Optocoupler with Semi-Reflective Layer for Compact LED Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercially available optocouplers often require larger packages and more complex circuitry to achieve effective feedback control and modulation of LEDs, which is undesirable for smaller form factor applications.
Innovation Solution
An optocoupler package design featuring a dielectric semi-reflective and transmissive material layer that reflects a portion of light towards a first photodetector for feedback control and transmits another portion to a second photodetector for isolated output signals, allowing for compact feedback control circuitry and improved LED modulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If feedback control circuitry is added to commercially available optocouplers, then LED feedback control capability is improved, but package size and circuit complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light path into two separate paths using a beam splitter: one path directs light to the first photodetector for feedback control, and the other path directs light to the second photodetector for isolated output signals. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each photodetector's function without requiring a larger package or more complex circuitry
Solution Approach 2:
The beam splitter acts as an intermediary element that divides the light from the LED into two separate beams, enabling both feedback control and isolated output signal generation simultaneously. This intermediary component resolves the contradiction by allowing dual functionality without increasing overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a beam splitter is introduced to separate light paths, then feedback control and isolated output signals are achieved simultaneously, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The beam splitter serves multiple functions simultaneously: it divides the light path, directs light to both photodetectors, and enables both feedback control and isolated output signal generation within a single component. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
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 design enables smaller and less complex optocoupler packages with enhanced feedback control capabilities, maintaining high isolation and signal integrity while reducing package size and circuit complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the layer of dielectric semi-reflective material is configured to reflect a first portion of light generated by the LED and incident upon the upper surface thereof towards the first photodetector thereby to provide the feedback control signals therefrom
Implementation Method 2
to transmit a second portion of light generated by the LED through the upper and lower surfaces thereof for detection by the second photodetector thereby to provide the isolated output signals therefrom
Implementation Method 3
photodetectors to detect the light signals and convert them into output electrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of methods and devices are provided for an optocoupler comprising a layer of dielectric optically semi-reflective and transmissive material disposed between an LED and a first photodetector located above an upper surface of the layer, and a second photodetector located beneath the lower surface of the layer. The layer reflects a first portion of light generated by the LED towards the first photodetector to generate LED feedback control signals, and transmits a second portion of light generated by the LED through the layer for detection by the second photodetector to generate isolated output signals.