Passive Alignment Optical Connector with Edge Reference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical connector alignment methods with substrate waveguides are either time-consuming due to active alignment or require multiple reference markings, making passive alignment inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A system using a substrate with a single reference mark and an optical connector featuring alignment apertures, including tapered or lens-enhanced apertures, to align with the substrate edge, allowing for passive alignment and secure coupling using minimal reference markings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If active alignment is used to align optical connectors with substrate waveguides, then alignment precision is improved, but alignment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the optical connector using alignment apertures that align with reference marks and substrate edges before final coupling. This preliminary passive alignment establishes accurate positioning without requiring time-consuming active alignment procedures, thereby reducing alignment time while maintaining precision.
2Measurement precision
If multiple reference markings are used on the substrate, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the alignment function into two separate alignment apertures: one for aligning with the reference mark and another for aligning with the substrate edge. This segmentation allows the use of minimal reference markings (only one reference mark needed) while maintaining alignment precision, thereby reducing substrate complexity.
3Measurement precision
If alignment apertures with magnifying lenses are used, then alignment precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnifying lenses as intermediary elements within the alignment apertures to enhance the visibility of reference marks and substrate edges. These lenses act as mediators that improve alignment precision by magnifying alignment features without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms, thus maintaining ease of manufacture.
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
Enables efficient and accurate alignment of optical connectors with waveguides on substrates, reducing alignment time and complexity while maintaining precise optical coupling.
Implementation Method 1
The apertures may be tapered or may include magnifying lenses to help align the optical connector with the reference mark and the edge of the substrate.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, apparatus, or method may include an optical connector that is configured to be fixed to a substrate including an optical waveguide. The substrate may also include a reference mark spaced away from the optical waveguide and extending from a substrate edge. The optical connector may define a first alignment aperture and a second alignment aperture through which the optical connector may be aligned with the substrate (e.g., the optical waveguide). The first alignment aperture may be configured to be aligned with the reference mark and the second alignment aperture may be configured to be aligned with the substrate edge.