PCB-Integrated Electro-Optic Modulator for Compact Laser Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electro-optic modulators are not suitable for creating a miniaturized, integrated electro-optical system due to their large size and inability to be easily integrated with other electronic, opto-electronic, and optical components.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a light modulating element, such as an electro-optic crystal, enclosed in a casing that is configured to be integrated on a printed circuit board, allowing for the modulation of physical properties of a light beam in response to an electrical signal while reducing the overall size of the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional electro-optic modulators are used, then light beam modulation function is achieved, but device size becomes large and integration with electronic components becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electro-optic modulator with electronic components (driver circuit, RF equipment) and optical components (laser, detector) into a single integrated device that can be mounted on a printed circuit board. This merging of previously separate components resolves the contradiction by achieving both compact size and full functionality including light beam modulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it generates laser light, modulates the light beam using electro-optic effects, detects the modulated light, and processes electrical signals. This multi-functionality allows a single compact device to replace multiple separate components, resolving the contradiction between small size and functional versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If experimental setups are used for quantum technology applications, then new functions can be realized, but system complexity increases and prevents industrial exploitation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates laser source, electro-optic modulator, detector, and electronic control circuits into a single unified device. This consolidation maintains the functional capabilities required for quantum technology applications while dramatically reducing system complexity by eliminating the need for multiple separate components and their interconnections.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device includes built-in driver circuits and control electronics that automatically manage the operation of the laser and modulator. This self-service capability reduces the need for external control equipment and complex setup procedures, making the system easier to implement while maintaining advanced functional capabilities.
3Volume of moving object
If components are miniaturized and integrated on printed circuit board, then system size is reduced, but ability to manipulate and control laser beam properties is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the electro-optic modulator with electronic control circuits and RF equipment on a printed circuit board. This integration maintains full beam property control capabilities (intensity, phase, polarization modulation) while achieving compact size suitable for practical applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The electro-optic modulator acts as an intermediary device that converts electrical control signals into optical modulations. By placing this modulator in close proximity to the laser source within the integrated device, full control over laser beam properties is achieved despite the compact form factor enabled by printed circuit board integration.
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 proposed solution enables the integration of a complete laser system, including a laser source and various optical and opto-electronic components, onto a single printed circuit board, significantly reducing the size of the setup by over a factor of 1000 compared to current systems.
Implementation Method 1
A specific example of such a device is an electro-optic modulator. The electro-optic modulator changes the properties of the light in response to an electrical signal which is applied to a piece of material exhibiting an electro-optic effect.
Data Source
AI summary
A device (1) for modulating a physical property of a light beam in response to an electrical signal is provided, comprising at least one light modulating element (13) capable of modulating a physical property of a light beam in response to an electrical signal and an enclosure (10) enclosing the at least one light modulating element (13). The enclosure (10) is configured to be integrated on a printed circuit board (40, 100).