Thermo-Optic Phase Shifter Heater Layout for Higher Optical Power
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermo-optic phase shifters are limited by their ability to tolerate high optical powers.
Innovation Solution
A structure for a thermo-optic phase shifter is designed with a waveguide core and a heater that includes a heating element and extensions projecting from it, positioned laterally to enhance heat transfer and thermal isolation, allowing for improved power handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional phase shifter structures are used, then the device can perform phase modulation, but the power handling capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The heater is segmented into a heating element and extensions that are laterally separated from the waveguide core. The heating element is positioned to overlap with the waveguide core for heat transfer, while the extensions project laterally to distribute heat and reduce thermal stress on the core, enabling higher power handling without compromising reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The extensions act as intermediary structures between the heating element and the waveguide core. They provide a thermal pathway that distributes heat laterally, reducing direct thermal stress on the core while maintaining effective heat transfer for phase modulation, thus improving power tolerance
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 structure enables enhanced thermal tuning of light propagation with increased power handling capability, benefiting from materials like silicon nitride and improved thermal isolation features.
Implementation Method 1
A phase shifter may operate by a thermo-optic mechanism in which heat is transferred to the waveguide core, which is comprised of a material having a refractive index that varies with temperature
Implementation Method 2
a heater that includes a heating element, a first extension that projects from the first heating element, and a second extension that projects from the heating element
Data Source
AI summary
Structures for a thermo-optic phase shifter and methods of forming such structures. The structure comprises a waveguide core, and a heater that includes a heating element, a first extension that projects from the first heating element, and a second extension that projects from the heating element. The heating element overlaps with a portion of the waveguide core, and the portion of the waveguide core is positioned laterally between the first extension and the second extension.