Optical Waveguide Axis Deviation for Propagation Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In silicon photonics, optical waveguides with cores having different widths at one end and another, or varying pitches, experience significant propagation loss due to the combination of linear and curved regions, particularly at joints and inflection points.
Innovation Solution
The optical waveguide incorporates axis deviations at joints and inflection points between linear and curved regions, with a minimum curvature of 15 mm or less, and axis deviations of 0.2 μm to 1 μm, to reduce propagation loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a core is formed by combining a linear region and a curved region to accommodate different core widths or pitches, then the optical waveguide can connect silicon optical waveguide and fiber, but the propagation loss of light becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing axis deviations specifically at critical locations (joints and inflection points) within the curved region, rather than uniformly across the entire core. This localized modification optimizes light propagation at specific problem areas while maintaining the overall curved structure needed for pitch adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses the two-dimensional pitch conversion problem by introducing axis deviations in the vertical dimension (perpendicular to the propagation direction). This third-dimensional adjustment allows the core to accommodate pitch changes while minimizing propagation loss through strategic positioning of axis deviations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the core width is different at one end and the other end, then the optical waveguide can interface with different components, but the propagation loss increases at joints and inflection points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing axis deviations specifically at critical locations (joints and inflection points) within the curved region, rather than uniformly across the entire core. This localized modification optimizes light propagation at specific problem areas while maintaining the overall curved structure needed for pitch adaptation.
3Productivity
If the pitch between adjacent cores is different at one end and the other end, then the optical waveguide can increase integration density, but the propagation loss increases in the curved region
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing axis deviations specifically at critical locations (joints and inflection points) within the curved region, rather than uniformly across the entire core. This localized modification optimizes light propagation at specific problem areas while maintaining the overall curved structure needed for pitch adaptation.
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 effectively minimizes propagation loss by managing the transition between linear and curved regions, ensuring stable light propagation even with varying core widths and pitches.
Implementation Method 1
an optical waveguide that transmits an optical signal between a silicon optical waveguide formed in an optical integrated circuit and an optical fiber
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an optical waveguide including two or more cores and a cladding portion, in which each of the cores is a continuous portion without branching from a start end to a terminal end in a propagation direction of light, at least one of the cores includes a linear region and a curved region, and has an axis deviation at least at one of a joint between the linear region and the curved region and an inflection point of the curved region, and the axis deviation occurs in a direction perpendicular to the propagation direction of light in a plan view.