Photonic Interconnect Switch Ring Resonator Crosstalk Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Photonic interconnect networks integrated into optoelectronic chips face limitations due to signal degradation caused by crosstalk losses when optical waves pass through intersections or resonators, which affects the transmission of data packets.

Innovation Solution

A photonic interconnect switch design featuring first and second linear optical waveguides that cross to form an intersection, with redirecting photonic ring resonators coupled in an intermediate optical coupling zone, allowing for controlled light redirection via electrical signals, and a network configuration with symmetrical switch groups to minimize crosstalk and maximize signal transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If optical waves pass through intersections or resonators in photonic interconnect networks, then light redirection and data transmission are enabled, but crosstalk losses occur causing signal degradation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight redirection capabilityVSAvoidcrosstalk losses
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The optical path is segmented into distinct sections: input waveguides, coupling zones, resonators, and output waveguides. This segmentation isolates the light redirection function to specific zones, minimizing unwanted interactions and crosstalk between different parts of the system while maintaining effective light routing capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Coupling zones are introduced as intermediary regions between the waveguides and resonators. These coupling zones act as mediators that enable controlled energy transfer between components while minimizing direct coupling that would cause crosstalk. The intermediary coupling zones allow selective interaction only when needed for switching operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If redirecting ring resonators are used to transfer light between waveguides, then photonic switching is achieved, but signal fidelity deteriorates due to losses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephotonic switching functionalityVSAvoidsignal fidelity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system utilizes parameter changes in the resonators (such as resonance frequency tuning via thermal or electro-optic effects) to control light routing. By changing the resonant parameters of the ring resonators, the system achieves photonic switching functionality while maintaining precise control over the switching process, thereby preserving signal fidelity through optimized coupling conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The design incorporates preliminary measures to counteract losses by optimizing the coupling zones and resonator dimensions before light transmission occurs. The coupling zones are designed with specific geometric parameters that pre-compensate for expected losses, and the resonators are dimensioned to minimize crosstalk, thereby maintaining signal fidelity while achieving switching functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Data Source

PatentUS10830955B2Integrated photonic interconnect switch and integrated photonic interconnect network
Publication Date: 2020.11.10 STMICROELECTRONICS (CROLLES 2) SAS
  • US10830955B2 patent drawing
  • US10830955B2 patent drawing
  • US10830955B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A photonic interconnect switch is formed by first and second linear optical waveguides that cross to form an intersection. First and second redirecting photonic ring resonators are coupled together in an intermediate optical coupling zone and are controllable with an electrical signal. The first ring resonator is coupled to the first optical waveguide in a first optical coupling zone. The second ring resonator is coupled to the second optical waveguide in a second optical coupling zone.