Optical Module Assembly Using Simulation Fibers for Lens Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assembling optical modules face challenges in achieving high accuracy of alignment due to optical loss and coupling loss, which affect the alignment of input and output lens systems with monitor ports, leading to reduced light intensity detection.
Innovation Solution
The method involves sensing the light intensity of divided light rays using an input lens system, adjusting its position, and optically coupling it to the input port, while also aligning and coupling first and second output lens systems to their respective output ports, utilizing modulation electrodes to maximize light absorption and employing simulation fibers and monitor light-receiving elements for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional alignment methods are used for lens systems and monitor ports, then assembly process is simple, but alignment accuracy is reduced due to optical loss and coupling loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces simulation fibers as intermediary components that transmit test light from the input port through the semiconductor modulator to the output ports. This intermediary optical path enables indirect measurement and alignment of the lens systems without directly coupling light from external light sources, thereby reducing optical loss and improving alignment accuracy through enhanced light intensity detection.
2Measurement precision
If traditional alignment methods are used for lens systems and monitor ports, then assembly process is simple, but coupling loss increases affecting light intensity detection
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation fibers serve as mediators that establish stable optical coupling paths between the input port, semiconductor modulator, and output ports. By using these pre-positioned fibers as alignment references, the method eliminates the need for direct coupling between external light sources and monitor ports, thereby reducing coupling loss and improving light intensity detection precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment methods (direct visual or physical coupling of lens systems to monitor ports) with an optical field-based alignment method. Test light transmitted through the simulation fibers creates optical signals that guide the alignment process, substituting mechanical trial-and-error with optical field feedback, thereby reducing coupling loss and enhancing detection precision.
3Measurement precision
If maximum light intensity detection is implemented through simulation fibers, then alignment accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation fibers serve multiple functions: they act as optical waveguides for signal transmission, as alignment references for lens positioning, and as test light transmission paths for detection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate alignment tools and procedures, thereby managing device complexity while achieving high alignment precision through maximum light intensity detection.
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 enhances the accuracy and speed of alignment by maximizing light intensity detection through optical waveguides, improving the overall precision of the optical module assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
sensing a light intensity of the divided light rays, adjusting the input lens system, and optically coupling the input lens system to the input port
Implementation Method 2
disposing a first output lens system and a second output lens system at positions facing the first output port and the second output port, respectively, and optically coupling the first output lens system and the second output lens system to the first output port and the second output port, respectively
Implementation Method 3
The modulation electrode is provided on the arm waveguide and applies a modulated voltage signal to the arm waveguide to change the refractive index of light in the arm waveguide. Thus, the phase of the light of the arm waveguide is modulated.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of assembling an optical module according to the present disclosure includes disposing an input lens system at a position facing an input port, sensing a light intensity of divided light rays, adjusting the input lens system, and optically coupling the input lens system to the input port, and disposing a first output lens system and a second output lens system at positions facing a first output port and a second output port, respectively, and optically coupling the first output lens system and the second output lens system to the first output port and the second output port, respectively.