Wavelength-Selectable Laser Diode for Compact WDM Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) systems face challenges with increased channel numbers, leading to larger equipment sizes and higher energy consumption, necessitating a more compact and energy-efficient light source solution.
Innovation Solution
A wavelength-selectable laser diode with a substrate featuring a gain region, tuning region, and phase adjusting region, equipped with waveguide layers and gratings, allows for the generation of oscillation wavelengths matching the WDM wavelength grid, and an optical communication apparatus incorporating multiple such diodes with an optical combiner and amplifier for enhanced reliability and lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single wavelength laser diode module is mounted to each input terminal for WDM systems, then wavelength channel functionality is achieved, but equipment size increases and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple wavelength channels into a single laser diode module by integrating a gain region with multiple gratings (first grating in the gain region, second grating in the tuning region) that can generate multiple WDM wavelengths from one device, thereby reducing equipment size while maintaining wavelength channel functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The laser diode module is designed to perform multiple wavelength channel functions simultaneously through a single device. The module can generate multiple WDM wavelengths by adjusting grating parameters and optical path lengths, making one device universal for multiple wavelength channels instead of requiring separate devices for each channel
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single wavelength laser diode module is mounted to each input terminal for WDM systems, then wavelength channel functionality is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple wavelength generation functions into a single laser diode module, reducing the total number of devices required. This consolidation reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining the ability to provide multiple WDM wavelength channels through a unified optical path and grating system
3Area of stationary object
If multiple channel wavelengths are provided from a single module, then equipment miniaturization is achieved, but wavelength selection precision must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wavelength selection function into multiple independent gratings (first grating with first grating length, second grating with second grating length) positioned at different locations (gain region and tuning region). Each grating can be independently controlled to select specific wavelengths, maintaining precision while enabling multiple channels from a single compact module
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic wavelength selection by making the gratings adjustable. The first and second gratings can be independently tuned to select different wavelengths from the multiple available channels, allowing precise wavelength selection to be dynamically adjusted based on communication needs while maintaining equipment miniaturization
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 enables miniaturization of WDM systems, reduces energy consumption, and enhances the reliability and lifespan of optical communication apparatuses by generating multiple wavelengths from a single module, improving system efficiency and performance.
Implementation Method 1
gratings disposed on the substrate or the clad layer in the gain region and the tuning region
Implementation Method 2
a waveguide layer on the substrate
Implementation Method 3
a phase adjusting region between the tuning region and the gain region
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a wavelength-selectable laser diode and an optical communication apparatus including the same. The wavelength-selectable laser diode includes a substrate, which includes a gain region, a tuning region spaced apart from the gain region, and a phase adjusting region between the tuning region and the gain region, a waveguide layer on the substrate, a clad layer on the waveguide layer, and gratings disposed on the substrate or the clad layer in the gain region and the tuning region.