Terahertz Device With Frequency Converter For Compact Optical Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional terahertz sources are not optimized for compact structure, reliable low-maintenance operation, and optical efficiency, limiting their applicability in imaging and spectroscopy methods.
Innovation Solution
A device with a frequency converter, such as a frequency doubler, is integrated between the wave guide fiber and the terahertz converter, allowing for efficient wavelength conversion to optimize terahertz radiation generation, using crystals like barium beta borate or periodically poled lithium niobate, and incorporating focusing optics to maintain beam intensity and reduce complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional terahertz sources are used, then terahertz radiation can be generated, but the device structure is not compact and requires high maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the wave guide fiber, frequency converter, and terahertz converter into a single integrated device housed in a common housing. This merging of previously separate components into one compact unit reduces maintenance requirements and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining terahertz generation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The terahertz converter serves multiple functions: it acts as both a generator and receiver of terahertz radiation, and the frequency converter adapts to convert between different wavelengths. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby reducing maintenance requirements
2Use of energy by moving object
If ultrashort laser pulses are focused directly onto the terahertz converter, then terahertz radiation is generated, but optical efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a frequency converter as an intermediary component between the wave guide fiber and the terahertz converter. This frequency converter optimizes the optical parameters of the laser pulses before they reach the terahertz converter, thereby significantly improving optical efficiency while the integrated housing keeps the overall structure compact
3Volume of moving object
If the device is made compact by integrating components, then spatial size is reduced, but alignment and focusing of light pulses becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the wave guide fiber, frequency converter, and terahertz converter into a single housed unit, the patent reduces the spatial size while the fixed relative positions of components within the housing facilitate precise optical alignment during manufacturing, eliminating the need for complex post-assembly alignment procedures
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 device achieves significant increases in optical efficiency and compactness, enabling robust and efficient terahertz radiation generation and reception with adjustable polarization, enhancing applications in imaging and spectroscopy.
Implementation Method 1
arranged a frequency converter between the end of the wave guide fiber and the terahertz converter in the housing, which converts the frequency of the irradiated laser light to a different frequency
Implementation Method 2
terahertz radiation could be generated by irradiating ultrashort laser pulses (i.e. laser pulses with a duration of less than 10 picoseconds) onto a suitable non-linear material or into a photoconductive semiconductor element
Implementation Method 3
If a voltage is applied to both electrodes of the dipole antenna, this leads in compliance with the Maxwell equations to an instantaneous flow of current, and hence, to the emission of terahertz radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A device for generating or receiving electromagnetic radiation in a frequency range from 10 GHz to 100 THz is provided. The device includes a housing and a wave guide fiber leading into the housing. The wave guide fiber is adapted for guiding pulsed laser light with a first central wavelength. Within the housing, a terahertz converter is provided for generating or receiving the electromagnetic radiation in the terahertz range. The device also includes a frequency converter for converting the light exiting from the wave guide fiber to a second central wavelength being arranged between the end of the wave guide fiber and the terahertz converter in such a way that the terahertz converter is impinged by the frequency converted light.