Phase-Coupled Laser Assembly for Structured Far-Field Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser devices for generating structured far fields with diffraction patterns are complex, costly, and require elaborate optics or movable parts to adjust the radiation direction.
Innovation Solution
A compact, cost-effective laser device with a monolithic design featuring a common waveguide layer and multiple laser bodies, where the laser bodies are phase-coupled via the waveguide layer, allowing for simplified control of radiation direction using electrical signals and refractive index adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If several single emitters with complex optics are used to generate a structured far field, then a diffraction pattern can be generated, but the device becomes elaborate and cost-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple laser bodies (at least two) into a single integrated device with common bonding pads and a shared substrate. This merging eliminates the need for separate complex optical systems for each emitter, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the capability to generate structured far fields and diffraction patterns through the coordinated operation of the integrated laser bodies
2Adaptability or versatility
If movable optical elements or complex housings are used to vary the direction of the diffraction pattern, then radiation direction can be adjusted, but the device becomes more complex and less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical adjustment systems (movable optical elements and complex housings) with an electrical control system. By applying control signals to the integrated laser bodies through common bonding pads, the radiation direction of the structured far field can be varied electronically, eliminating the need for mechanical moving parts and reducing device complexity
3Device complexity
If a monolithic design with common waveguide layer and multiple laser bodies is used, then device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but phase coupling between laser bodies must be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a common waveguide layer as an intermediary structure that facilitates phase coupling between the integrated laser bodies. This waveguide layer acts as a mediator that enables coherent light interaction and phase synchronization among the multiple laser bodies, ensuring reliable operation of the integrated device while maintaining structural simplicity
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 the generation of a structured far field with a one-dimensional or two-dimensional point lattice diffraction pattern without the need for complex optics or movable parts, providing a compact and efficient solution for controlling radiation direction.
Implementation Method 1
via the common waveguide layer during operation of the laser device, the laser bodies are formed to be phase-coupled to each other
Data Source
AI summary
A laser device is provided which comprises a common waveguide layer and a plurality of laser bodies, wherein each of the laser bodies has an active region configured for generating coherent electromagnetic radiation. The laser bodies are arranged side by side on the common waveguide layer, wherein the laser bodies are directly adjacent to the common waveguide layer. In particular, the laser bodies are configured to be phase-coupled to each other via the waveguide layer during operation of the laser device.Furthermore, a method for producing such a phase-coupled laser device is provided.