Optoelectronic Structure With Passive Optical Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing active alignment process for light source modules in optoelectronic structures is time-consuming and costly, requiring continuous adjustment of the light source module to achieve optimal optical signal alignment with photonic components.
Innovation Solution
The proposed optoelectronic structure incorporates a carrier with a first optical component supported by the carrier and a second optical component optically coupled to the first component, utilizing an optical guiding structure to direct optical signals at least twice within an elevation range horizontally overlapped with the second optical component, thereby simplifying the alignment process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If active alignment process is used to align light source module with photonic component, then optimal optical signal alignment is achieved, but manufacturing time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-aligning optical components within the light source module during module fabrication, before the module is installed in the optoelectronic structure. The optical components are pre-positioned and fixed relative to each other, so that when the light source module is installed, the optical path is already optimized. This eliminates the need for time-consuming active alignment after assembly, as the alignment is performed in advance during manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical guiding structure as an intermediary element that facilitates passive alignment between the light source module and photonic component. This optical guiding structure includes optical elements that direct and shape the optical signal path, enabling automatic alignment through geometric optimization rather than requiring active adjustment. The intermediary structure mediates the alignment process by providing a fixed optical path geometry that ensures proper coupling.
2Manufacturing precision
If active alignment process is used to align light source module with photonic component, then optimal optical signal alignment is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-aligning optical components within the light source module during module fabrication, before the module is installed in the optoelectronic structure. The optical components are pre-positioned and fixed relative to each other, so that when the light source module is installed, the optical path is already optimized. This eliminates the need for time-consuming active alignment after assembly, as the alignment is performed in advance during manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical guiding structure as an intermediary element that facilitates passive alignment between the light source module and photonic component. This optical guiding structure includes optical elements that direct and shape the optical signal path, enabling automatic alignment through geometric optimization rather than requiring active adjustment. The intermediary structure mediates the alignment process by providing a fixed optical path geometry that ensures proper coupling.
3Ease of operation
If traditional alignment structures are used, then alignment function is provided, but package size increases and design flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the alignment function with the optical guiding structure itself, rather than using separate alignment mechanisms. The optical elements that guide the light path also serve as the alignment reference, combining multiple functions into a single integrated structure. This eliminates the need for additional alignment components, reducing overall package size while maintaining alignment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs passive alignment through geometric optimization in the spatial arrangement of optical components. By carefully designing the three-dimensional positions and orientations of optical elements, the alignment is achieved through geometric constraints rather than mechanical adjustment mechanisms. This dimensional approach to alignment reduces the need for bulky adjustment mechanisms and allows for more compact packaging.
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 configuration reduces the time and cost associated with active alignment by passively aligning optical components and using a lens structure to actively align the light source module with the photonic component, while also reducing package size and increasing design flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
an optical guiding structure configured to couple an optical signal from the second optical component to the first optical component and configured to direct the optical signal at least twice within an elevation range horizontally overlapped with the second optical component
Data Source
AI summary
An optoelectronic structure is provided. The optoelectronic structure includes a carrier, a first optical component, and a second optical component. The first optical component is supported by the carrier. The second optical component is supported by the first optical component and optically coupled to the first optical component.