Self-Aligning Optical Components Using Integrated Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for aligning micron-sized optical components in optical communication packages are labor-intensive and costly, limiting the production of low-cost telecommunication equipment, and are inflexible and limited in diversity due to reliance on external manipulation and high initial investments.
Innovation Solution
Integration of actuators within optical components that allow for self-alignment and re-adjustment of positions and beam direction, enabling the use of conventional high-speed manufacturing processes and optimizing energy coupling efficiency through controlled actuation based on determined energy levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If labor-intensive techniques are used for high precision alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-alignment through integrated actuators that automatically adjust component positions based on real-time coupling efficiency feedback. The system monitors energy coupling levels and autonomously actuates components to optimize alignment, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining high precision alignment standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors energy coupling efficiency between optical components. Based on the measured coupling level, the system automatically adjusts component positions through integrated actuators, creating a closed-loop control system that achieves high precision alignment without labor-intensive manual processes.
2Manufacturing precision
If specialized deformable submounts with robotic positioning are used, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the alignment actuator directly into the component submount structure, creating an integrated unit rather than separate positioning systems. This integration eliminates the need for complex external robotic manipulation systems while achieving the same alignment precision through simplified, built-in actuation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated actuator within the submount enables the component to self-adjust its position autonomously based on coupling efficiency feedback, eliminating the need for complex external robotic positioning systems and specialized deformable submounts while maintaining high alignment precision.
3Manufacturing precision
If external manipulation is used to alter component position, then alignment precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal self-alignment platform where integrated actuators and feedback control can be applied across different optical component types and configurations. The same basic architecture adapts to various devices by simply changing the component parameters, enabling high precision alignment while maintaining versatility for different applications without requiring device-specific external manipulation systems.
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
This approach enables rapid, cost-effective assembly and reconfiguration of optical components, improving alignment precision and efficiency while reducing labor and capital costs, and allowing for adaptability to different devices without the need for external mechanical manipulation.
Implementation Method 1
urging at least one of the directed energy components using a controlled actuator to translate thereby a position of the component
Data Source
AI summary
Method, apparatus and system for self-aligning components, sub-assemblies and/or assemblies wherein actuators are used to physically move the components, sub-assemblies and/or assemblies such that an appropriate alignment is provided. The efficiency of the alignment may be determined with respect to a qualitative measurement (e.g., bit error rate, optical intensity and the like) of an output signal.