VCSEL Synthetic Wavelength Source With Passive Thermal Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for producing synthetic wavelengths require significant technical effort and are costly, often relying on expensive laser systems or active temperature stabilization.
Innovation Solution
A miniaturized coherent multi-wavelength light source using at least two surface emitters (VCSELs) with a heat conductive carrier element, allowing for the generation of stable and adjustable synthetic wavelengths at a lower cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If expensive laser systems are used to generate synthetic wavelengths, then wavelength stability is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex laser systems with inexpensive LED light sources. The LEDs are mounted on a heat-conductive substrate that provides passive thermal stabilization, eliminating the need for costly active temperature control systems while maintaining wavelength stability for synthetic wavelength generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes active mechanical temperature stabilization systems (requiring temperature sensors, control circuits, and moving parts) with a passive thermal conduction system. The heat-conductive substrate passively equalizes temperatures between LEDs through thermal conduction, replacing complex mechanical control systems with a simple thermal field-based solution.
2Reliability
If active temperature stabilization is implemented, then wavelength stability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates complex active temperature stabilization systems by using inexpensive LEDs with passive thermal management. The heat-conductive substrate provides sufficient wavelength stability without requiring temperature sensors, control circuits, or active cooling/heating mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat-conductive substrate performs self-regulation of LED temperatures through passive thermal conduction. The system automatically equalizes temperatures between LEDs mounted on the substrate without external control, making the stabilization process self-service and eliminating complex control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple surface emitters are used to generate synthetic wavelengths, then measurement range is improved, but maintaining wavelength stability becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple LEDs onto a single heat-conductive substrate, allowing them to thermally interact and equalize their temperatures. This combination enables the generation of multiple wavelengths for extended measurement range while the shared thermal environment maintains wavelength stability through passive thermal conduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the thermal parameters of the system by introducing a heat-conductive substrate with specific thermal conductivity properties. This parameter change enables passive thermal stabilization of multiple LEDs, allowing wavelength stability to be maintained across multiple emitters without complex active control.
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 provides a compact, cost-effective, and robust solution for producing stable synthetic wavelengths, enabling accurate measurements without the need for expensive equipment or complex temperature stabilization.
Implementation Method 1
the support element is a heat conductor and both surface emitters are fixedly arranged in, on or at the support element
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for generating a synthetic wave length comprising at least two surface emitters and a support element, the support element is a heat conductor and both surface emitters are securely arranged in or on the support element or attached thereto. The invention also relates to a measuring device comprising a device of said type.