Optical Waveguide Light Path Conversion Mirror
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical waveguide devices face challenges in cost and complexity due to the need for vacuum deposition or air space-based light path conversion methods, which complicate the substrate structure and require additional production facilities.
Innovation Solution
An optical waveguide device with a light path conversion mirror formed from a light reflective resin layer or metal paste layer, bonded to a wiring substrate with a light path conversion inclined surface, eliminating the need for vacuum deposition and air spaces, and simplifying the substrate structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a light path conversion mirror is formed by vacuum deposition or sputter method, then light reflection performance is improved, but production facilities must be introduced and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive vacuum deposition or sputter processes with a cost-effective screen printing method using light reflective resin or metal paste. This disposable-like approach uses inexpensive materials and existing printing equipment to achieve sufficient light reflection performance for the light path conversion mirror, eliminating the need for expensive production facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the complex mechanical vacuum deposition or sputter systems with a simpler screen printing process. Instead of using vacuum chambers and sophisticated deposition equipment, the invention employs a straightforward screen printing method that can be performed with conventional printing machinery, significantly simplifying the manufacturing system.
2Reliability
If air space is used as light path conversion mirror, then light reflection is achieved, but substrate structure becomes complicated and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the air space requirement from the light path conversion mirror design. Instead of creating a vacuum or air-filled cavity between the inclined surface and the mirror, the invention directly forms the mirror contact surface with light reflective resin or metal paste, eliminating the need for complex sealing structures and vacuum maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the light reflective layer with the substrate structure by directly forming the resin or metal paste layer in contact with the inclined surface. This integration eliminates the need for separate air space compartments and sealing mechanisms, simplifying the overall substrate structure while maintaining light reflection functionality.
3Reliability
If metal film is formed on inclined surface, then light path conversion is achieved, but new production facilities must be introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive metal film deposition processes with an inexpensive screen printing method using metal paste or light reflective resin. This approach uses disposable-like consumable materials that can be easily applied with conventional printing equipment, eliminating the need for expensive vacuum deposition facilities while achieving sufficient light path conversion performance.
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 reduces production costs and complexity by using existing equipment for resin or metal paste application, achieving high reflectivity and efficient light path conversion without the need for additional facilities or substrate modifications.
Implementation Method 1
a light path conversion mirror formed to contact the light path conversion inclined surface of the optical waveguide, and formed of a light reflective resin layer or a metal paste layer
Data Source
AI summary
An optical waveguide device includes a wiring substrate, an optical waveguide bonded on the wiring substrate and having a light path conversion inclined surface on both ends, and a light path conversion mirror formed to contact the light path conversion inclined surface of the optical waveguide and formed of a light reflective resin layer or a metal paste layer. In case the light reflective resin layer is used as the light path conversion mirror, the light reflective resin layer may be formed partially only on the side of the light path conversion inclined surface, or may be formed on the whole of the wiring substrate to coat the optical waveguide.