Tunable Filter Integrating Optical Detector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional variable wavelength filters in optical communication networks face challenges in miniaturization due to separate optical detector configurations, which increase insertion loss and hinder device miniaturization.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an optical detector within the variable wavelength filter, utilizing a diffraction grating and a variable mirror with a reflective surface that adjusts its angle to select a defined wavelength band, and a separation element or reflective mirror to guide non-selected wavelength bands to the detector for intensity measurement, allowing for internal detection and reduced insertion loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the optical detector is disposed in a separate device from the variable wavelength filter, then the variable wavelength filter can be configured simply, but the optical communication device cannot be miniaturized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the optical detector with the variable wavelength filter into a single integrated device. The detector is positioned within the filter structure to receive light through the same optical path, eliminating the need for separate external detection equipment and enabling device miniaturization while maintaining functional simplicity
2Measurement precision
If a portion of the optical signal is separated to detect the intensity, then the light intensity can be detected, but the insertion loss of the optical communication device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The variable wavelength filter performs self-detection of light intensity using its own optical path. The detector receives light that passes through the filter's wavelength selection mechanism, allowing the filter to monitor its own performance without requiring external detection systems that would cause additional signal loss
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 configuration enables miniaturization of optical communication devices by eliminating the need for a separate optical detector and reduces insertion loss by using non-selected wavelength bands for intensity detection, thereby improving signal transmission efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a diffraction grating, which disperses input light from the input optical fiber
Implementation Method 2
a variable mirror having a reflective surface capable of changing an angle and reflecting the input light dispersed by the diffraction grating
Data Source
AI summary
A variable wavelength filter includes: an input optical fiber; a diffraction grating that disperses input light from the input optical fiber; a variable mirror that has a reflective surface, wherein an angle of the reflective surface is adjustable, the variable mirror reflects the input light dispersed by the diffraction grating, the input light reflected by the variable mirror passes through a normal optical path, the input light that passes through the normal optical path has a wavelength band defined based on the angle of the reflective surface, and the defined wavelength band has a center wavelength corresponding to the angle of the reflective surface; an output optical fiber that outputs a portion of the input light that has passed through the normal optical path; and an optical detector disposed on a propagation path of the input light from the input optical fiber to the output optical fiber.