Optoelectronic Device for Fluid Detection Using Integrated Photonic Resonator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optoelectronic devices for detecting substances in fluids face limitations in accuracy, measurement resolution, and industrial scalability due to complexity and high production costs, making them difficult to use and produce in a miniaturized format.
Innovation Solution
An optoelectronic device with an integrated electronic circuit and photonic circuit, featuring a ring optical resonator with a selectively absorbing active surface, uses a closed control loop to adjust the light source's wavelength for improved noise rejection and measurement accuracy, and includes a motion system for precise optical coupling, enabling high-resolution detection with reduced production complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If open loop detection system is used, then device structure is simpler, but measurement accuracy and resolution deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop detection system where the wavelength of the light source is actively controlled based on feedback from detecting the resonance wavelength of the optical resonator. This feedback mechanism enables precise tracking of the resonance wavelength shifts caused by target substance absorption, significantly improving measurement accuracy and resolution compared to open-loop systems.
2Measurement precision
If closed loop detection system is used, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light source, optical resonator, and detection components into an integrated photonic circuit structure. This integration reduces the overall device complexity and facilitates industrial-scale production while maintaining the closed-loop detection capability for high measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the resonance wavelength of the optical resonator itself as the reference for controlling the light source wavelength. The resonator provides its own feedback signal, eliminating the need for external reference sources or complex calibration systems, thereby simplifying the device structure.
3Measurement precision
If closed loop detection system is used, then measurement accuracy improves, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of multiple optical components into a single photonic circuit enables standardized manufacturing processes and mass production, significantly reducing production costs while preserving the high measurement accuracy of closed-loop detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical adjustment mechanisms with integrated photonic circuit designs that can be manufactured using standard semiconductor fabrication processes, reducing both production complexity and cost.
4Measurement precision
If accurate control of physical and optical characteristics is implemented, then measurement accuracy improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically maintains optimal operating conditions by using the resonator's own resonance wavelength as a reference for light source control. This self-regulating mechanism eliminates the need for manual calibration or precise environmental control, improving ease of operation while maintaining high measurement accuracy.
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 device achieves enhanced measurement accuracy and resolution with improved common mode noise rejection, is simpler to produce industrially, and suitable for miniaturization, allowing detection of low-concentration substances with high precision.
Implementation Method 1
an optical resonator (5) adapted to convey a second portion (LT2) of the light radiation transmitted by said optical coupler along a ring optical path (51)
Implementation Method 2
The active surface (52) of the optical path (51) comprises a material capable of selectively absorbing the target substance to be detected
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an optoelectronic device (1) for detection of a target substance dispersed in a fluid (50). The optoelectronic device comprises:—a light source (2) adapted to emit a light radiation (LE) having an adjustable wavelength λS;—an integrated electronic circuit (100) comprising a photonic circuit (10) operatively coupled to said light source;—a control unit (9) operatively coupled to said light source and to said photonic circuit.