Optical Transceiver Substrate Reflective Surface Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Optical transceivers in handheld devices face challenges with low signal-to-noise ratio due to scattered light and increased size from using lenses, which also introduce cross-talk and manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A transceiver design featuring a substrate with reflective surfaces that concentrate light onto a photodetector, eliminating the need for lenses and external shields, thereby reducing size and cost while providing optical isolation and EMI shielding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lenses are used to collect and focus light onto the photodiode, then the signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but the height of the transceiver increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light collection and focusing functions into a single integrated substrate structure with reflective surfaces, eliminating the need for separate lenses and reducing overall transceiver height while maintaining effective light concentration on the photodiode
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from using lenses (three-dimensional optical elements requiring vertical space) to using reflective surfaces on a planar substrate (two-dimensional structure), achieving light concentration through angular redirection rather than focal length, thereby reducing height
2Reliability
If lenses are used to shape the illumination beam, then the signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions (light collection, focusing, and optical isolation) into the substrate structure itself, eliminating the need for separate lenses and baffles, thereby reducing device complexity and manufacturing steps
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support, electrical connections, and optical functions through its reflective surfaces that concentrate light and provide isolation, reducing the need for additional specialized components
3Reliability
If lenses are used for light collection, then the signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but cross-talk is introduced and additional light blocking baffles are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts potentially harmful reflected light that would cause cross-talk into beneficial light concentration by using strategically positioned reflective surfaces on the substrate to redirect light onto the photodiode, eliminating the need for light-blocking baffles
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective surfaces on the substrate act as intermediaries that control light paths, directing transmitted light onto the photodiode while preventing direct light from causing cross-talk, thereby maintaining signal integrity without additional blocking components
4Quantity of substance
If the collection angle of the receiver is increased with a lens, then more light is collected, but the transceiver size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves increased light collection by expanding the effective collection area on the planar substrate with reflective surfaces, rather than increasing vertical height with lenses, maintaining a compact transceiver volume while collecting light from a wider angular range
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 solution enhances signal-to-noise ratio, reduces transceiver height, and simplifies manufacturing by using reflective surfaces for collimation and light collection, addressing the limitations of lens-based designs.
Implementation Method 1
The substrate has a reflective surface which blocks light leaving the light source from reaching the photodetector unless the light is reflected by an object external to the transceiver. The second well in the substrate has a reflecting surface that is shaped to concentrate light received from outside the transceiver onto the photodetector.
Implementation Method 2
The light source emits light of a predetermined wavelength when powered by applying a potential between first and second contacts on the light source die.
Implementation Method 3
The photodetector generates a signal between first and second contacts on the photodetector die in response to illumination of the photodetector die by light of the predetermined wavelength.
Data Source
AI summary
A transceiver having a light source die, a photodetector die and a substrate is disclosed. The substrate has a first well in which the light source die is mounted and a second well in which the photodetector die is mounted. The substrate has a reflective surface which blocks light leaving the light source from reaching the photodetector unless the light is reflected by an object external to the transceiver. The reflecting surface of the second well in the substrate is shaped to concentrate light received from outside the transceiver onto the photodetector, and in one aspect of the invention it comprises a non-imaging optical element. The light source is powered by applying a potential between first and second contacts on the light source die. A signal is generated between first and second contacts on the photodetector die in response to illumination of the photodetector die.