Split-Input Photodetector Layout for Reflection Interference Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Photodetectors experience responsivity loss and interference due to metal contacts interacting with optical signals and signal reflection, which degrades link performance.
Innovation Solution
A photodetector design with split inputs directs optical signals through different portions of the optical absorber away from metal contacts and uses a tuner to adjust phases for destructive interference of reflected signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal contacts are used in the optical absorber, then electrical signals can be collected, but responsivity loss and interference occur due to interaction with optical signals and reflected signals
Solution Approach 1:
The optical absorber is divided into multiple portions (first portion and second portion) with different orientations relative to the metal contacts. This segmentation allows optical signals to be directed through paths that minimize interaction with the metal contacts, reducing interference and responsivity loss while maintaining electrical signal collection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the optical absorber are assigned different functions based on their orientation. The first portion is optimized for receiving optical signals in one direction while the second portion handles signals in another direction, allowing each region to operate with minimal interference from metal contacts.
2Device complexity
If a single optical absorber is used, then device structure is simple, but reflected signals cause interference that degrades performance
Solution Approach 1:
The optical absorber is segmented into multiple portions with different orientations. This segmentation enables reflected signals from different portions to be directed to different outputs, allowing for destructive interference of reflections through proper phase adjustment while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful reflected signals into a beneficial effect by using phase adjustment to create destructive interference. The reflections that would normally degrade performance are instead used to cancel each other out, improving link performance while maintaining device simplicity.
3Productivity
If optical signals are directed through the optical absorber, then electrical signals are generated, but metal contacts interact with optical signals causing responsivity loss
Solution Approach 1:
The optical absorber is divided into portions with different orientations relative to metal contacts. This segmentation creates optimal paths for optical signals to traverse the absorber material while minimizing intersection with metal contacts, thereby reducing responsivity loss and improving optical-to-electrical conversion efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the optical absorber are optimized for specific functions. By directing optical signals through portions where they have minimal interaction with metal contacts, the system maximizes energy conversion efficiency while reducing losses.
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
Reduces responsivity loss and improves link performance by minimizing interference from metal contacts and signal reflections.
Implementation Method 1
Photodetectors convert optical signals into electrical signals. The photodetectors may include an optical absorber through which optical signals pass. The optical signals separate electrical carriers in the optical absorber, generating electrical signals.
Implementation Method 2
using a tuner to adjust phases for destructive interference of reflected signals
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes photodetectors with multiple inputs and methods of operating photodetectors with multiple inputs. An apparatus includes a substrate, an optical absorber, and an optical device. The optical absorber is positioned on the substrate. The optical absorber includes a first portion and a second portion coupled to the first portion along a line. The optical device produces a first optical signal and a second optical signal based on a received optical signal and directs the first optical signal through the first portion of the optical absorber in a direction substantially parallel to the line. The optical device also directs the second optical signal through the second portion of the optical absorber in the direction substantially parallel to the line.