US20080118243A1 - Compact optical multiplexer and demultiplexer - Google Patents
Compact optical multiplexer and demultiplexer Download PDFInfo
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- US20080118243A1 US20080118243A1 US11/739,422 US73942207A US2008118243A1 US 20080118243 A1 US20080118243 A1 US 20080118243A1 US 73942207 A US73942207 A US 73942207A US 2008118243 A1 US2008118243 A1 US 2008118243A1
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/42—Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements
- G02B6/4201—Packages, e.g. shape, construction, internal or external details
- G02B6/4246—Bidirectionally operating package structures
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/42—Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements
- G02B6/4201—Packages, e.g. shape, construction, internal or external details
- G02B6/4204—Packages, e.g. shape, construction, internal or external details the coupling comprising intermediate optical elements, e.g. lenses, holograms
- G02B6/4214—Packages, e.g. shape, construction, internal or external details the coupling comprising intermediate optical elements, e.g. lenses, holograms the intermediate optical element having redirecting reflective means, e.g. mirrors, prisms for deflecting the radiation from horizontal to down- or upward direction toward a device
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/42—Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements
- G02B6/4201—Packages, e.g. shape, construction, internal or external details
- G02B6/4204—Packages, e.g. shape, construction, internal or external details the coupling comprising intermediate optical elements, e.g. lenses, holograms
- G02B6/4215—Packages, e.g. shape, construction, internal or external details the coupling comprising intermediate optical elements, e.g. lenses, holograms the intermediate optical elements being wavelength selective optical elements, e.g. variable wavelength optical modules or wavelength lockers
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/26—Optical coupling means
- G02B6/27—Optical coupling means with polarisation selective and adjusting means
- G02B6/2746—Optical coupling means with polarisation selective and adjusting means comprising non-reciprocal devices, e.g. isolators, FRM, circulators, quasi-isolators
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/26—Optical coupling means
- G02B6/28—Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals
- G02B6/293—Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means
- G02B6/29346—Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means operating by wave or beam interference
- G02B6/29361—Interference filters, e.g. multilayer coatings, thin film filters, dichroic splitters or mirrors based on multilayers, WDM filters
- G02B6/29362—Serial cascade of filters or filtering operations, e.g. for a large number of channels
- G02B6/29365—Serial cascade of filters or filtering operations, e.g. for a large number of channels in a multireflection configuration, i.e. beam following a zigzag path between filters or filtering operations
- G02B6/29367—Zigzag path within a transparent optical block, e.g. filter deposited on an etalon, glass plate, wedge acting as a stable spacer
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
- G02B6/26—Optical coupling means
- G02B6/28—Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals
- G02B6/293—Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means
- G02B6/29379—Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means characterised by the function or use of the complete device
- G02B6/2938—Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means characterised by the function or use of the complete device for multiplexing or demultiplexing, i.e. combining or separating wavelengths, e.g. 1xN, NxM
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to the processing of optical signals, and more particularly, to the multiplexing and the demultiplexing of optical signals.
- An optical multiplexer merges into mutual optical alignment as a single multiplexed signal a plurality of optical signals that are each at a different optical wavelength. For example, optical signals produced at different optical wavelengths by a corresponding number of distinct lasers may be combined by an optical multiplexer into a multiplexed transmitted signal that can then be retransmitted from a single multiplexed signal transmitting port.
- an optical multiplexer is the interconnecting link between a plurality of optical fibers bearing a corresponding plurality of transmitted signals and a single optical fiber on which that plurality of signals is able to be communicated in the form of a multiplexed transmission signal.
- an optical demultiplexer reverses this process, separating a multiplexed signal that includes a plurality of signals at distinct wavelengths into that corresponding plurality of constituent signals.
- a multiplexed received signal from a single signal receiving port can be converted by an optical demultiplexer into the separate received signals at respective individual wavelengths that are included in the original multiplexed received signal.
- an optical demultiplexer is the interconnecting link between a single optical fiber on which a multiplexed received signal is being communicated and a plurality of optical fibers that each bears an individual of the received signals that had been included in that original multiplexed received signal.
- the present invention includes teachings directed toward the design and construction of a spatially-efficient optical multiplexer.
- the present invention also pertains to the design and construction of a spatially-efficient optical demultiplexer.
- the present invention provides a unitary structure that is capable of performing both, the function associated with an optical multiplexer, and the function associated with an optical demultiplexer.
- a unitary structure that is capable of performing both, the function associated with an optical multiplexer, and the function associated with an optical demultiplexer.
- the present invention also encompasses methods for processing plural optical signals at a corresponding plurality of distinct optical wavelengths.
- teachings of the present invention relate to the consolidation of such plural optical signals into multiplexed signals, and to the separation of multiplexed signals into the constituent plural optical signals thereof.
- FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the interactions among typical elements of a known optical multiplexer.
- FIG. 2 is a diagram depicting an embodiment of an optical multiplexer that incorporates teachings of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is an enlarged diagrammatic depiction of a lens, a transmission filter, and an admission window associated with each of the lasers that is used to provide a transmitted signal as an input to the multiplexer of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 4 is an enlarged diagrammatic depiction of the prism that is used to affect the path of the multiplexed transmitted signal produced by the multiplexer of FIG. 2
- FIGS. 5A and 5B are related diagrams that illustrate, respectively, the transmission of a multiplexed transmitted signal in one direction through a multiplexed transmitted signal isolator at the input side of the multiplexed signal transmitting port of the multiplexer of FIG. 2 , and the absorption of a multiplexed transmitted signal attempting to pass in the opposite direction through the multiplexed transmitted signal isolator.
- FIGS. 6A and 6B are related diagrams that illustrate an aspect of spatial efficiency promoted by the teachings of the present invention, making comparative reference, respectively, to the optical transmission block from the known optical multiplexer of FIG. 1 , and to the optical transmission block from the inventive optical multiplexer of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 7 is a diagram depicting an embodiment of an optical demultiplexer incorporating teachings of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is an enlarged diagrammatic depiction of an egress window, a reception filter, and a lens associated with each of the optical detectors that is used to acquire individual reception signals produced by the demultiplexer of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 9 is an enlarged diagrammatic depiction of a prism that is used to affect the path of the multiplexed reception signal provided as an input to the demultiplexer of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 10 is a diagram depicting an embodiment of an optical multiplexer-demultiplexer incorporating teachings of the present invention.
- FIG. 1 depicts an example of a known optical multiplexer 10 .
- Multiplexer 10 includes a first laser 11 , a second laser 12 , a third laser 13 , and a fourth laser 14 that each produce transmitted signals at respective distinct wavelengths.
- first laser 11 produces a first transmitted signal L 1 at a first transmission wavelength ⁇ 1
- second laser 12 produces a second transmitted signal L 2 at a second transmission wavelength 2 .
- Third laser 13 produces a third transmitted signal L 3 at a third transmission wavelength ⁇ 3
- fourth laser 14 produces a fourth transmitted signal L 4 at a fourth transmission wavelength ⁇ 4 .
- multiplexer 10 It is the function of multiplexer 10 to merge transmitted signals L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , and L 4 into a single multiplexed transmitted signal L M that can be presented to the input side of a multiplexed signal transmitting port 18 for retransmission.
- Transmission block 20 Toward that end, positioned among lasers 11 , 12 , 13 , and 14 and multiplexed signal transmitting port 18 is an optical signal transmission block 20 .
- Transmission block 20 has on a first side 22 thereof a planar first surface 24 and on an opposed second side 26 thereof a planar second surface 28 that is parallel to first surface 24 . As measured between first surface 24 and second surface 28 , transmission block 20 has a width W 20 .
- First laser 11 and third laser 13 are disposed on first side 22 of transmission block 20 with the optical transmission axis of each directed toward first surface 24 at an angle of incidence ⁇ .
- Second laser 14 and fourth laser 14 are disposed on second side 26 of transmission block 20 with the optical transmission axis of each directed at second surface 28 at an equal angle of incidence ⁇ .
- Multiplexed signal transmitting port 18 is located on first side 22 of transmission block 20 with the input side of multiplexed signal transmitting port 18 facing first surface 24 of transmission block 20 .
- the location on first surface 24 at which each respective transmission axis is oriented is the location at which a transmitted signal traveling along that transmission axis will enter transmission block 20 .
- the expression “admission window” employed by reference to a transmitted signal is intended to refer to the location on a surface of a transmission block, such as transmission block 10 , at which that transmitted signal is intended or able to enter into the transmission block.
- the transmission axis of first laser 11 is oriented at a first admission window 31 on first surface 24 of transmission block 10
- the transmission axis of second laser 12 is oriented at a second admission window 32 on second surface 28 of transmission block 10 .
- the transmission axis of third laser 13 is oriented at a third admission window 33 on first surface 24 of transmission block 10
- the transmission axis of fourth laser 14 is oriented at a fourth admission window 34 on second surface 28 of transmission block 10 .
- each of lasers 11 , 12 , 13 , and 14 is provided with a corresponding transmitted signal isolator that prevents any portion of a transmitted signal reflected externally or internally by other components of multiplexer 10 from reaching the output side of the laser, as this could cause damage to the laser otherwise interfere with optimum laser operation.
- a first transmitted signal isolator 61 is positioned at the output side of first laser 11
- a second transmitted signal isolator 62 is positioned at the output side of second laser 12
- a third transmitted signal isolator 63 is positioned at the output side of third laser 13
- a fourth transmitted signal isolator 64 is positioned at the output side of fourth laser 14 .
- a transmission filter is associated with each of lasers 11 - 14 and is positioned at and about the admission window on first surface 24 or second surface 28 of transmission block 20 at which the transmission axis of individual of lasers 11 - 14 is oriented.
- Each filter passes signals at the transmission wavelength with each respective laser functions.
- each transmission filter also bars passage of transmitted signals, or of reflected components of transmitted signals, at any other wavelength. From the interior of transmission block 20 , these transmission filters function as mirrors, reflecting back toward the interior of transmission block 20 any transmitted signals at those other wavelengths that approaches first surface 24 or second surface 28 of transmission block 20 from the interior thereof.
- a first transmission filter 71 is positioned on first surface 24 of transmission block 20 at and about first admission window 31 at which are directed the transmission axis of first laser 11 and any first transmitted signal L 1 at first transmission wavelength ⁇ 1 produced thereby.
- First transmission filter 71 passes signals at first transmission wavelength ⁇ 1 and bars passage of signals at any other optical wavelength.
- first transmission filter 71 permits first transmitted signal L 1 to enter transmission block 20 at first admission window 31 at an angle of refraction A 1 from the perpendicular to first surface 24 of transmission block 20 at first admission window 31 .
- first transmission filter 71 bars passage into transmission block 20 at first admission window 31 of signals and components of signals at any wavelength other than at first transmission wavelength ⁇ 1 .
- first transmission filter 71 also reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 20 signals and components of signals at any optical wavelength other than first transmission wavelength ⁇ 1 .
- a second transmission filter 72 is positioned on second surface 28 of transmission block 20 at and about second admission window 32 at which are directed the transmission axis of second laser 12 and any second transmitted signal L 2 at second transmission wavelength ⁇ 2 produced thereby.
- Second transmission filter 72 passes signals at second transmission wavelength ⁇ 2 and bars passage of signals at any other transmission wavelength.
- second transmission filter 72 permits second transmitted signal L 2 to enter transmission block 20 at second admission window 32 .
- second transmission filter 72 bars passage into transmission block 20 at second admission window 32 of signals and components of signals at any wavelength other than at second transmission wavelength ⁇ 2 .
- second transmission filter 72 also reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 20 signals and components of signals at any optical wavelength other than second transmission wavelength ⁇ 2 . Therefore, as shown, second transmission filter 72 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 20 first transmitted signal L 1 , which is at a wavelength different from second transmission wavelength ⁇ 2 .
- First transmitted signal L 1 thus commences a series of reflections interior of transmission block 20 that collectively progress first transmitted signal L 1 toward multiplexed signal transmitting port 18 in a direction parallel to first surface 24 and second surface 28 of transmission block 20 .
- first transmitted signal L 1 is accompanied after second admission window 32 by second transmitted signal L 2 as shown.
- a third transmission filter 73 is positioned on first surface 24 of transmission block 20 at and about third admission window 33 at which are directed the transmission axis of third laser 13 and any third transmitted signal L 3 at third transmission wavelength ⁇ 3 produced thereby.
- Third transmission filter 73 passes signals at third transmission wavelength ⁇ 3 and bars passage of signals at any other optical wavelength.
- third transmission filter 73 permits third transmitted signal L 3 to enter transmission block 20 at third admission window 33 .
- third transmission filter 73 bars passage into transmission block 20 at third admission window 33 of signals and components of signals at any wavelength other than at third transmission wavelength ⁇ 3 .
- third transmission filter 73 also reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 20 signals and components of signals at any optical wavelength other than third transmission wavelength ⁇ 3 . Therefore, as shown, third transmission filter 73 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 20 transmitted signals L 1 -L 2 , which are at wavelengths different from third transmission wavelength ⁇ 3 .
- Second transmitted signal L 2 thus commences and joins first transmitted signal L 1 in a shared series of reflections interior of transmission block 20 that collectively progress second transmitted signal L 2 and first transmitted signal L 1 toward multiplexed signal transmitting port 18 in a direction parallel to first surface 24 and second surface 28 of transmission block 20 .
- second transmitted signal L 2 and first transmitted signal L 1 are accompanied after third admission window 33 by third transmitted signal L 3 as shown.
- a fourth transmission filter 74 is positioned on second surface 28 of transmission block 20 at and about fourth admission window 34 at which are directed the transmission axis of fourth laser 14 and any fourth transmitted signal L 4 at fourth transmission wavelength ⁇ 4 produced thereby.
- Fourth transmission filter 74 passes signals at fourth transmission wavelength ⁇ 4 and bars passage of signals at any other optical wavelength.
- fourth transmission filter 74 permits fourth transmitted signal L 4 to enter transmission block 20 at fourth admission window 34 .
- fourth transmission filter 74 bars passage into transmission block 20 at fourth admission window 34 of signals and components of signals at any wavelength other than at fourth transmission wavelength ⁇ 4 .
- fourth transmission filter 74 also reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 20 signals and components of signals at any optical wavelength other than fourth transmission wavelength ⁇ 4 . Therefore, as shown, fourth transmission filter 72 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 20 transmitted signals L 1 -L 3 , which are at wavelengths different from fourth transmission wavelength ⁇ 4 .
- Third transmitted signal L 3 thus commences and joins transmitted signals L 1 -L 2 in a shared additional reflection interior of transmission block 20 that progress transmitted signals L 1 -L 3 toward multiplexed signal transmitting port 18 in a direction parallel to first surface 24 and second surface 28 of transmission block 20 .
- transmitted signals L 1 -L 3 are accompanied by fourth transmitted signal L 4 as shown.
- Transmitted signals L 1 -L 4 thereafter emerge in mutual optical alignment from first surface 24 of transmission block 20 as multiplexed transmission signal L M and enter the input side of multiplexed signal transmitting port 18 for retransmission in consolidated form.
- first transmitted signal L 1 engages in the longest path of travel interior of transmission block 20 .
- first transmitted signal L 1 travels across transmission block 20 to second admission window 32 on second surface 28 .
- first transmitted signal L 1 is reflected back toward the interior of transmission block 20 by second transmission filter 72 .
- second transmission filter 72 returns across transmission block 20 to third admission window 33 on first surface 24 .
- First transmitted signal L 1 is reflected toward the interior of transmission block 20 a second time, on this occasion by third transmission filter 73 .
- First transmitted signal L 1 then passes across transmission block 20 again to fourth admission window 34 on second surface 28 .
- first transmitted signal L 1 is reflected toward the interior of transmission block 20 by fourth transmission filter 74 .
- first transmitted signal L 1 travels across transmission block 20 for the last time, emerging from first surface 24 of transmission block 20 as part of multiplexed transmission signal L M .
- Second transmitted signal L 2 engages in a less lengthy path of travel interior of transmission block 20 , but one that is nonetheless longer than that traveled by third transmitted signal L 3 or fourth transmitted signal L 4 .
- Second transmitted signal L 2 entering transmission block 20 through second transmission filter 72 at second admission window 32 , second transmitted signal L 2 travels across transmission block 20 to third admission window 33 on first surface 24 .
- Second transmitted signal L 2 is reflected toward the interior of transmission block 20 by third transmission filter 73 .
- Second transmitted signal L 2 then passes across transmission block 20 again to fourth admission window 34 on second surface 28 .
- There second transmitted signal L 2 is reflected toward the interior of transmission block 20 by fourth transmission filter 74 .
- second transmitted signal L 2 travels across transmission block 20 for the last time, emerging from first surface 24 of transmission block 20 as part of multiplexed transmitted signal L M .
- third transmitted signal L 3 The path of travel undertaken interior of transmission block 20 by third transmitted signal L 3 even shorter, and less complicated. Entering transmission block 20 through third transmission filter 73 at third admission window 33 , third transmitted signal L 3 travels across transmission block 20 to fourth admission window 34 on second surface 28 . There third transmitted signal L 3 is reflected toward the interior of transmission block 20 by fourth transmission filter 74 . Third transmitted signal L 3 then travels across transmission block 20 , emerging from first surface 24 of transmission block 20 as part of multiplexed transmission signal L M .
- Fourth transmitted signal L 4 enters transmission block 20 through fourth transmission filter 74 at fourth admission window 34 and then simply travels across transmission block 20 without experiencing any internal reflections whatsoever to emerge from first surface 24 of transmission block 20 as the final component of multiplexed transmission signal L M .
- a demultiplexer configured according to the principles illustrated in known multiplexer 10 of FIG. 1 would use a multiplexed signal receiving port in place of multiplexed signal transmitting port 18 and a plurality of optical detectors positioned on both sides of transmission block 20 in place individually of lasers 11 - 14 .
- the demultiplexer would process signals traveling in directions essentially opposite from those indicated for multiplexed transmission signal L M and transmitted signals L 1 -L 4 in multiplexer 10 in FIG. 1 .
- the multiplexed transmitted signal receiving port of the multiplexer would direct into transmission block 20 through first surface 24 thereof a multiplexed reception signal made up of constituent received signals at respective distinct optical wavelengths.
- the multiplexed reception signal would then be reflected internally of transmission block 20 between the opposed surfaces thereof and deconstructed in the process into those constituent received signals. These would then be delivered individually through transmission filters 71 - 74 to a corresponding of the optical detectors for retransmission independently.
- the overall size of multiplexer 10 is relatively large.
- the size of such optical devices is largely a function of the thickness W 20 of transmission block 20 .
- lasers such as lasers 11 - 14 , used in a TO-56 package, or of optical detectors of a correspondingly configured known demultiplexer, have diameters of about 5.6 mm.
- the distance between the transmission axes of lasers of this size, or between receiving axes of corresponding optical detectors, should be greater than about 6.2 mm.
- the constituent elements of a demultiplexer or of a multiplexer should relate functionally to each other and to the overall architecture of the transceiver along functional axes that harmonize with axes standard in industry. That is not the case with multiplexer 10 , or with a correspondingly configured demultiplexer, where the transmission axes of lasers 11 - 14 are at a relatively arbitrary angle of incidence ⁇ to the surfaces of transmission block 20 , or where the receiving axis of multiplexed signal transmitting port 18 is at another incidentally determined angle to the surfaces of transmission block 20 and to the transmission axes of lasers 11 - 14 .
- optical multiplexer functions must be preformed by structures distinct from the structures that perform optical demultiplexer functions. Should both functions be required in a single transceiver, for example, distinct hardware must be dedicated to each function. Furthermore, distinct spaces must be accorded in that single optical device to multiplexer hardware and to demultiplexer hardware. Transceiver size and cost are both impacted adversely.
- Isolators such as transmitted signal isolators 61 - 64
- the present invention provides a unitary structure that is capable of performing both, the function associated with an optical multiplexer, and the function associated with an optical demultiplexer
- the present invention also includes teachings directed toward the design and construction individually of a spatially-efficient optical multiplexer and of a spatially-efficient optical demultiplexer. Accordingly, these individual aspects of the present invention will first be explored completely, before discussing the combination of both in an inventive unitary optical multiplexer and demultiplexer.
- FIG. 2 depicts one embodiment of an optical multiplexer 100 incorporating teachings of the present invention.
- Multiplexer 100 is so configured as to be capable of combining four input transmitted signals at respective distinct optical wavelengths into a single output that takes the form of a multiplexed transmission signal. A smaller or a larger number of such input transmission signals may be combined into a single multiplexed transmission signal output in other embodiments of the present invention.
- multiplexer 100 includes an optical transmission block 102 that has on a first side 104 thereof a planar first surface 106 and on an opposed second side 108 thereof a planar second surface 110 that is parallel to first surface 106 . As measured between first surface 106 and second surface 110 , transmission block 102 has a width W 102 .
- transmission block 102 is made of a silicon-based optically transparent material. Nonetheless, other optically transmitting materials may be particularly suited for use in other embodiments of the present invention.
- Transmission block 102 is rendered internally and externally reflective of optical signals by a highly reflective first coating 112 on first surface 106 and a highly reflective second coating 114 on second surface 110 .
- coatings 112 , 114 may be layers of tantalum oxide (Ta 2 O 5 ) or silicon oxide (Si 2 O 4 ). In other embodiments alternative, reflective coatings may prove advantageous.
- Coatings 112 , 114 may deposited or applied to first surface 106 and to second surface 110 , respectively, in any manner and at any stage of fabrication that is consistent with the conditions of use intended for multiplexer 100 . It is not necessary, however, that each of coatings 112 , 114 , be identical in material composition or in thickness. Neither is it essential according to teachings of the present invention that coatings 112 , 114 , be deposited or applied contemporaneously or in identical manners.
- first coating 112 Formed through first coating 112 at selected locations along first surface 106 are a plurality of admission windows at which first surface 106 of transmission block 102 is neither internally nor externally reflective of optical signals.
- the plurality of admission windows depicted in FIG. 2 includes a first admission window 122 , a second admission window 124 , a third admission window 126 , and a fourth admission window 128 .
- the number of admission windows in a reflective coating, such as first coating 112 will vary with and generally correspond at least to the number of optical transmission signals at distinct optical wavelengths that are to be combined by a multiplexer, such as multiplexer 100 . Therefore, a smaller or a greater number of such admission windows may be required in other inventive multiplexer embodiments.
- Admission windows in first coating 112 are created by any process harmonious with the methods by which a multiplexer, such as multiplexer 100 , is to be manufactured.
- the admission windows in first coating 112 may be formed by masking the location of each intended admission window when first coating 112 is originally deposited on or applied to transmission block 102 .
- first coating 112 may be deposited or applied to the entirety of first surface 106 , while portions of first coating 112 are removed subsequently at each location intended for an admission window.
- multiplexer 100 Also included in multiplexer 100 is a plurality of lasers that are positioned on the same side of transmission block 102 , in the case illustrated in FIG. 2 on first side 104 .
- Each of the lasers is capable of producing transmitted signals at a respective individual transmission wavelength, wherefore a smaller or a larger number of lasers may be employed in other embodiments of the invention, depending on the number of transmitted signals to be combined into a single multiplexed transmission signal.
- the transmission axis of each of the lasers is desirable oriented at and substantially normal to first surface 106 of transmission block 102 .
- the plurality of lasers shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2 includes a first laser 132 , a second laser 134 , a third laser 136 , and a fourth laser 138 .
- First laser 132 produces transmitted signals J 132 at a first transmission wavelength ⁇ 132 and has a transmission axis T 132 that is oriented at and substantially normal to first surface 106 of transmission block 102 .
- Second laser 134 produces transmitted signals J 134 at a second transmission wavelength ⁇ 134 and has a transmission axis T 134 that is also oriented at and substantially normal to first surface 106 .
- Third laser 136 produces transmitted signals J 136 at a third transmission wavelength ⁇ 136 and has a transmission axis T 136 that is oriented at and substantially normal to first surface 106 .
- fourth laser 138 produces transmitted signals J 138 at a fourth transmission wavelength ⁇ 138 and has a transmission axis T 138 that is in addition oriented at and substantially normal to first surface 106 of transmission block 102 .
- Appropriate lasers for use in multiplexer 100 include FP lasers, DBF lasers, and VCSEL lasers.
- Each of the lasers shown in FIG. 2 is associated with a corresponding one of the admission windows formed in first coating 112 on first surface 106 of transmission block 102 .
- first admission window 122 is associated with first laser 132
- second admission window 124 is associated with second laser 134
- third admission window 126 is associated with third laser 136
- fourth admission window 128 is associated with fourth laser 138 .
- each laser of multiplexer 100 Located between each laser of multiplexer 100 and the admission window associated therewith are a pair of additional associated structures.
- the first of these additional associated structures is an optical filter that is positioned on first surface 106 of transmission block 102 filling the associated admission window.
- Each such optical filter operates at the transmission wavelength of the associated laser, thereby blocking from entry into or egress from transmission block 102 through the admission window in which it is located any signal other than transmitted signals at the transmission wavelength of the associated laser.
- these transmission filters function as mirrors, reflecting back toward the interior of transmission block 102 any transmitted signals at those other wavelengths that approaches first surface 106 or second surface 110 of transmission block 102 from the interior thereof.
- first transmission filter 142 operating at first transmission wavelength ⁇ 132 is positioned in first admission window 122 .
- First transmission filter 142 permits first transmitted signals J 132 to enter transmission block 102 at first admission window 122 , but bars passage into transmission block 102 at first admission window 122 of transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at first transmission wavelength ⁇ 132 .
- first transmission filter 142 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 102 transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at first transmission wavelength ⁇ 132 .
- a second transmission filter 144 operates at second transmission wavelength ⁇ 134 and is positioned in second admission window 124 .
- Second transmission filter 144 permits second transmitted signals J 134 to enter transmission block 102 at second admission window 124 , but bars passage into transmission block 102 at second admission window 124 of transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at second transmission wavelength ⁇ 134 .
- second transmission filter 144 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 102 transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at first transmission wavelength ⁇ 134 .
- a third transmission filter 146 that operates at second transmission wavelength ⁇ 136 is positioned in third admission window 126 .
- Third transmission filter 146 permits third transmitted signals J 136 to enter transmission block 102 at third admission window 126 , but bars passage into transmission block 102 at third admission window 126 of transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at third transmission wavelength ⁇ 136 .
- third transmission filter 142 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 102 transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at third transmission wavelength ⁇ 32 .
- a fourth transmission filter 148 operating at fourth transmission wavelength ⁇ 138 is positioned in fourth admission window 128 .
- Fourth transmission filter 148 permits fourth transmitted signals J 138 to enter transmission block 102 at fourth admission window 128 , but bars passage into transmission block 102 at fourth admission window 128 of transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at fourth transmission wavelength ⁇ 138 .
- fourth transmission filter 148 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 102 transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at fourth transmission wavelength ⁇ 138 .
- the second additional associated structure located between each laser of multiplexer 100 and the admission window associated therewith is a lens that is positioned in close proximity to the output side of each laser in alignment with the transmission axis thereof.
- Each lens is capable of reorienting transmitted signals from the associated laser through an acute angle away from the transmission axis of that laser and along a redirected transmission pathway to the associated transmission filter positioned in the associated admission window.
- a first lens 152 is associated with first laser 132 and positioned at the output side of first laser 132 between first laser 132 and first transmission filter 142 in first admission window 122 .
- a second lens 154 associated with second laser 134 is positioned between the output side of second laser 134 and second transmission filter 144 in second admission window 124 .
- third laser 136 is associated with third laser 136 .
- third lens 156 associated with third laser 136 is a third lens 156 that is positioned between the output side of third laser 136 and third transmission filter 146 in third admission window 126 .
- fourth laser 158 is a fourth lens 148 that is positioned between the output side of fourth laser 158 and fourth transmission filter 148 in fourth admission window 128 .
- Multiplexer 100 also includes a multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 that is disposed on second side 108 of transmission block 102 .
- Multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 is positioned to receive transmitted signals from the plurality of lasers in multiplexer 100 , once those transmitted signals are placed in mutual optical alignment as a single multiplexed transmission signal J M by being reflected within transmission block 102 toward multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 between the first coating 112 and second coating 114 .
- multiplexed transmission signal J M emerges from transmission block 102 at a multiplexed transmitted signal egress window 162 in second coating 114 .
- Multiplexer 100 further includes a prism 164 positioned between multiplexed signal egress window 162 and multiplexed signal transmission port 160 .
- Prism 164 is capable of bending the path of multiplexed transmission signal J M into optical alignment with the optical receiving axis R 160 of transmitting port 160 .
- receiving axis R 160 of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 can be made to be parallel to second surface 110 of transmission block 102 . This harmonizes the functional axis of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 with axes otherwise standard in industry, facilitating easy coupling and replacement of a multiplexer, such as multiplexer 100 , as a modular component among others in a complex optical system.
- Transmitted signals from the plurality of lasers in multiplexer 100 are optically aligned by repeated internal reflections within transmission block 102 between first side 104 and second side 108 thereof.
- the series of reflections undergone by each of the transmitted signals progresses the transmitted signals within transmission block 102 toward multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 in a direction parallel to first side 104 and second side 108 .
- fourth transmitted signal J 138 engages in the longest path of travel interior of transmission block 102 .
- fourth transmitted signal J 138 travels across transmission block 102 slightly in the direction of multiplexed signal transmission port 160 to second coating 114 on second surface 110 .
- fourth transmitted signal J 138 is reflected back across transmission block 102 , again trending in the direction of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 , to first coating 112 on first surface 106 . Reflections continue, sending fourth transmitted signal J 138 across transmission block 102 to second coating 114 and back across transmission block 102 to first surface 106 , always in the direction of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 .
- fourth transmitted signals J 138 encounters third transmission filter 146 in third admission window 126 .
- fourth transmitted signal J 138 is reflected onward between first surface 106 and second surface 110 in the direction of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 , but fourth transmitted signals J 138 is joined in those additional internal reflections by third transmitted signal J 136 , which enters transmission block 102 through third transmission filter 146 in third admission window 126 .
- Third transmitted signal J 136 and fourth transmitted signals J 138 are optically aligned from third admission window 126 onward during subsequent internal reflections. Those reflections continue between first coating 112 on first surface 106 and second coating 114 on second surface 110 , until third transmitted signal J 136 and fourth transmitted signals J 138 encounter second transmission filter 144 in second admission window 124 . There, third transmitted signal J 136 and fourth transmitted signal J 138 are reflected onward between first surface 106 and second surface 110 in the direction of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 , but third transmitted signal J 136 and fourth transmitted signal J 138 are joined in those additional internal reflections by second transmitted signal J 134 , which enters transmission block 102 through second transmission filter 144 in second admission window 124 .
- Second transmitted signal J 134 , third transmitted signal J 136 , and fourth transmitted signal J 138 are optically aligned from second admission window 124 onward during subsequent internal reflections. Those reflections continue between first coating 112 on first surface 106 and second coating 114 on second surface 110 , until second transmitted signal J 134 , third transmitted signal J 136 , and fourth transmitted signals J 138 encounter first transmission filter 142 in first admission window 122 .
- second transmitted signal J 134 , third transmitted signal J 136 , and fourth transmitted signal J 138 are reflected onward between first surface 106 and second surface 110 in the direction of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 , but second transmitted signal J 134 , third transmitted signal J 136 , and fourth transmitted signal J 138 are joined in those additional internal reflections by first transmitted signal J 132 , which enters transmission block 102 through first transmission filter 142 in first admission window 122 .
- first transmitted signal J 132 , second transmitted signal J 134 , third transmitted signal J 136 , and fourth transmitted signal J 138 are optically aligned as multiplexed transmission signal J M , which makes a single transit across transmission block 102 to multiplexed signal egress window 162 , through prism 164 , and then toward multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 for retransmission.
- multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 The input side of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 is provided with an optical isolator that prevents any portion of a multiplexed transmitted signal that enters multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 from being reflected from multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 back into multiplexer 100 . Such an event could cause damage to the lasers employed therein, or otherwise interfere with optimum operation.
- a multiplexed transmitted signal isolator 166 is positioned at the output side of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 between transmitting port 160 and prism 164 .
- multiplexer 100 Selected portions of multiplexer 100 will be addressed in further detail relative to the enlarged depictions presented in FIGS. 3-5 .
- FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic depiction of a typical laser and the set of lens, transmission filter, and admission aperture associated therewith in multiplexer 100 .
- first laser 132 is shown and first admission window 122 that is associated therewith. Between first laser 132 and first admission window 122 , the associated first transmission filter 142 and first lens 152 also appear.
- First laser 132 produces transmitted signals J 132 at first transmission wavelength ⁇ 132 .
- Transmitted signals J 132 emerge from the output side of first laser 132 directed toward first surface 106 of transmission block 102 and in alignment with transmission axis T 132 of first laser 132 .
- First lens 152 is optically aligned with transmission axis T 132 of first laser 132 at a focal length F 152 away from the output side of first laser 132 .
- Focal length F 152 is determined by the nature of first laser 132 and other performance criteria intended for multiplexer 100 . For example, if a laser transmits an optical signal with a small beam spot on the order of 1 microns, is all too easy to produce undesirable amounts of beam divergence during optical manipulation of the optical signals produced.
- focal length F 152 is maintained quite small, in a range of from about 0.8 to about 1.0 millimeters.
- first lens 152 It is the function of first lens 152 to reorient transmitted signals J 132 from first laser 132 through an acute tilt angle ⁇ 152 away from transmission axis T 132 along a redirected transmission pathway P 132 to first admission window 122 .
- the distance between laser's axis T 132 and first lens' optical axis 151 determines the tilted angle ⁇ 152 of P 132 .
- There transmitted signals J 132 pass through first transmission filter 142 and enter transmission block 102 at an angle of refraction B 132 from the perpendicular P 122 to first surface 106 of transmission block 102 at first admission window 122 .
- Suitable lenses for use as first lens 152 include A-type lenses, D-type lenses, Grin lenses, and Ball lenses.
- FIG. 4 depicts prism 164 on second side 108 of transmission block 102 in multiplexer 100 .
- Prism 164 is made from fused silica and is bonded to second surface 110 of transmission block 102 by an epoxy adhesive possessed of an optical index close to that of fused silica.
- Prism 164 has a longest face 168 that is perpendicular to second surface 110 and an inclined face 170 that forms a dihedral incline angle 170 with longest face 168 .
- Multiplexed transmission signal J M emerges from transmission block 102 through multiplexed signal egress window 162 and enters prism 164 through the side thereof that is secured to transmission block 102 .
- Incline angle 170 is calculated to permit prism 164 to bend the path of multiplexed transmission signal J M into alignment with receiving axis R 160 of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 .
- the path of multiplexed transmission signal J M would then be parallel to second surface 110 of transmission block 102 , and multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 could be positioned on second side 108 of transmission block 102 with receiving axis R 160 parallel to second surface 110 .
- it has been found to facilitate this objective by setting incline angle 170 49.6 ⁇ 0.1 degrees.
- the longitudinal positioning of prism 164 along second surface 110 of transmission block 102 at multiplexed signal egress window 162 can be used to determine the separation distance D from second surface 110 of the path that transmission signal J M travels after passing through prism 164 . This in turn is equivalent to determining how far away from second surface 110 it is necessary to position receiving axis R 160 , and in turn how to dispose multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 relative to the other elements of multiplexer 100 . Altering the location of prism 164 in the manner suggested by two-sided arrow S in FIG. 4 will correspondingly vary separation distance D of multiplexed transmission signal J M from second surface 110 . Shifting prism 164 in the direction indicated by the left side of arrow S will reduce separation distance D, while shifting prism 164 in the direction indicated by the right side of arrow S will increase separation distance D.
- FIGS. 5A and 5B are related diagrams that illustrate in exploded perspective the elements and operation of multiplexed transmission signal isolator 166 that is located on the input side of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 in multiplexer 100 of FIG. 2 .
- Multiplexed transmission signal isolator 166 is a dual-stage, free space isolator that includes a first polarized disc 172 , a second polarized disc 174 , and a third polarized disc 176 .
- First polarized disc 172 and second polarized disc 174 are disposed in an aligned, parallel relationship sandwiching a first garnet crystal 178 therebetween.
- second garnet crystal 180 On the opposite side of second polarized disc 174 from first garnet crystal 178 is a second garnet crystal 180 .
- Second garnet crystal 180 is in turn sandwiched between second polarized disc 174 and third polarized disc 176 , which are also in an aligned, parallel relationship.
- Receiving axis R 160 of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 is included in FIGS. 5A and 5B by way of perspective.
- third polarized disc 176 of multiplexed transmission signal isolator 166 is positioned in close proximity to multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 , while third polarized disc 176 is located remotely therefrom. From this it can be appreciated that multiplexed transmission signal J M shown in FIG. 5A is successfully entering the input side of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 . On the other hand, multiplexed transmission signal J M shown in FIG. 5B is attempting, due to reflection or otherwise within multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 , to escape therefrom along receiving axis R 160 . In this attempt, multiplexed transmission signal J M is as intended, entirely unsuccessful.
- each of polarized discs 172 , 124 , and 176 is indicated by a diametrically disposed broken line thereupon.
- the polarization direction of an optical signal passing through a portion of multiplexed transmission signal isolator 166 is aligned with the transparent direction of that portion, the optical signal passes without obstruction.
- the polarization direction of an optical signal passing through a portion of multiplexed transmission signal isolator 166 is perpendicular to the transparent direction of that portion of multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 , the optical signal is completely absorbed and blocked from passage.
- multiplexed transmission signal J M passes without significant absorption through polarized discs 172 , 174 , and 176 of multiplexed transmission signal isolator 166 . In the other direction of propagation, however, as shown in FIG. 5B , multiplexed transmission signal J M is completely absorbed by second polarized disc 174 and first polarized disc 172 .
- transmitted signals in optical systems are polarized, and the wavelength intervals maintained between plural lasers in a single optical device are quite small.
- the transmission wavelengths of four lasers, such as lasers 132 , 134 , 136 , and 138 in multiplexer 100 would be, respectively, 1275 nanometers, 1300 nanometers, 1325 nanometers, and 1350 nanometers.
- a single dual-stage free space isolator such as multiplexed transmission signal isolator 166 , is sufficient to prevent the return from multiplexed signal transmitting port 160 of any portion of a multiplexed transmission signal received thereby.
- FIGS. 6A and 6B are related diagrams that illustrate an aspect of spatial efficiency promoted by the teachings of the present invention.
- FIG. 6A depicts optical transmission block 20 from known optical multiplexer 10 shown in FIG. 1 , as well as the pathways of transmitted signals L 1 -L 4 and multiplexed transmission signal L M into, within, and out of transmission block 20 .
- FIG. 6B depicts optical transmission block 102 from inventive optical multiplexer 100 shown in FIG. 2 and includes the pathways of transmitted signals J 132 -J 138 and multiplexed transmission signal J M into, within, and out of transmission block 102 .
- first transmitted signal L 1 experiences only three reflections within transmission block 20 and, following only four transits of transmission block 20 , emerges therefrom in optical alignment with the other transmitted signals L 2 -L 4 as multiplexed transmission signal L M .
- the spatial relationships among typical components in a known multiplexer, such as multiplexer 10 of FIG. 1 ultimately determine the minimum width able to be used in the transmission block thereof.
- the distance between adjacent lasers, such as lasers 11 - 14 is about 6.2 millimeters.
- Such a size in transmission block 20 can, however, become an impedance to reducing size in new optical devices, such as optical transceivers.
- first transmitted signal J 132 experiences twelve reflections within transmission block 102 , so that following thirteen transits of transmission block 102 , first transmitted signal J 132 emerges from transmission block 102 in optical alignment with the other transmitted signals J 134 -J 138 as multiplexed transmission signal J M .
- width W 102 of transmission block 102 need be only a fraction of width W 20 that is required in transmission block 20 of known multiplexer 10 .
- it is possible to construct a multiplexer of reduced size having a transmission block, such as transmission block 102 , having a width W 102 10 millimeters only. This in turn nets further advantages not directly related to the optical device into which transmission block 102 might become incorporated. For example, a smaller die can be used to manufacture transmission blocks, such as transmission block 102 , than are required to manufacture transmission blocks for known multiplexers.
- an optical signal multiplexer such as multiplexer 100
- demultiplexing means cooperative with the transmission block thereof for separating a multiplexed reception signal into constituent received signals at respective distinct reception wavelengths.
- FIG. 7 One embodiment of structures performing the function of a demultiplexing means according to teachings of the present invention is presented in FIG. 7 as a demultiplexer 200 .
- Demultiplexer 200 is so configured as to be capable of separating a single multiplexed reception signal containing four received signals at respective distinct optical reception wavelengths into those constituent received signals for separate subsequent processing. In other embodiments of the present invention, a smaller or a larger number of such received signals may be included in a single multiplexed reception signal that is to be thusly deconstructed.
- demultiplexer 200 includes an optical transmission block 202 that may be similar in material composition, physical configuration, and method of manufacture to transmission block 102 of multiplexer 100 in FIG. 2 .
- transmission block 202 has on a first side 204 thereof a planar first surface 206 and on an opposed second side 208 thereof a planar second surface 210 that is parallel to first surface 206 .
- transmission block 202 has a width W 202 .
- Transmission block 202 is rendered internally and externally reflective of optical signals by highly reflective coatings on the faces thereof that may be similar in material composition, physical configuration, and method of manufacture to first coating 112 and second coating 114 of multiplexer 100 in FIG. 2 . Accordingly, transmission block 202 of demultiplexer 200 carries a highly reflective first coating 212 on first surface 206 and a highly reflective second coating 214 on second surface 210 .
- the plurality of egress windows depicted in FIG. 7 includes a first egress window 222 , a second egress window 224 , a third egress window 226 , and a fourth egress window 228 .
- the egress windows of demultiplexer 200 may be similar in material composition, physical configuration, and method of manufacture to the admission windows of multiplexer 100 in FIG. 2 .
- the number of egress windows in a reflective coating will vary with and generally correspond at least to the number of received signals at distinct optical wavelengths that are to be separated from a multiplexed reception signal by a demultiplexer, such as demultiplexer 200 . Therefore, a smaller or a greater number of such egress windows may be required in other inventive demultiplexer embodiments.
- demultiplexer 200 Also included in demultiplexer 200 is a plurality of optical detectors that are positioned on the same side of transmission block 202 , in the case illustrated in FIG. 7 on second side 208 .
- Each of the detectors is tuned to recognize and to retransmitting received signals at a respective individual reception wavelength, wherefore a smaller or a larger number of detectors may be employed in other embodiments of the invention, depending on the number of received signals to be separated out of a single multiplexed reception signal.
- the reception axis of each of the detectors is desirable oriented at and substantially normal to second surface 210 of transmission block 202 .
- the plurality of detectors shown in the embodiment of FIG. 7 includes a first detector 232 , a second detector 234 , a third detector 236 , and a fourth detector 238 .
- First detector 232 recognizes received signals K 232 at a first reception wavelength ⁇ 232 and has a reception axis R 232 that is oriented at and substantially normal to second surface 210 of transmission block 202 .
- Second detector 234 recognizes received signals K 234 at a second reception wavelength ⁇ 234 and has a reception axis R 234 that is also oriented at and substantially normal to second surface 210 .
- Third detector 236 recognizes received signals K 126 at a third reception wavelength ⁇ 236 and has a reception axis R 236 that is oriented at and substantially normal to second surface 210 .
- fourth detector 238 recognizes received signals K 238 at a fourth reception wavelength ⁇ 238 and has a reception axis R 238 that is in addition oriented at and substantially normal to second surface 210 of transmission block 202 .
- Appropriate detectors for use in demultiplexer 200 include PIN detectors and ADP detectors.
- Each of the detectors shown in FIG. 7 is associated with a corresponding one of the egress windows formed in second coating 214 on second surface 210 of transmission block 202 .
- first egress window 222 is associated with first detector 232
- second egress window 224 is associated with second detector 234
- third egress window 226 is associated with third detector 236
- fourth egress window 228 is associated with fourth detector 238 .
- each detector of demultiplexer 200 Located between each detector of demultiplexer 200 and the egress window associated therewith are a pair of additional associated structures.
- the first of these additional associated structures is an optical filter that is positioned on second surface 210 of transmission block 202 filling the associated egress window.
- Each such optical filter operates at the reception wavelength of the associated detector, thereby blocking from entry into or egress from transmission block 202 through the egress window in which it is located any signal other than received signals at the reception wavelength of the associated detector.
- these reception filters function as mirrors, reflecting back toward the interior of transmission block 202 any received signals at those other wavelengths that approaches first surface 206 or second surface 210 of transmission block 202 from the interior thereof.
- first reception filter 242 tuned to first reception wavelength ⁇ 232 is positioned in first egress window 222 .
- First reception filter 242 permits first received signals K 232 to emerge from transmission block 202 at first egress window 222 , but bars passage out of transmission block 202 at first egress window 222 of received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at first reception wavelength ⁇ 232 .
- first reception filter 242 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 202 received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at first reception wavelength ⁇ 232 .
- a second reception filter 244 tuned to second reception wavelength ⁇ 234 is positioned in second egress window 224 .
- Second reception filter 244 permits second received signals K 234 to emerge from transmission block 202 at second egress window 224 , but bars passage out of transmission block 202 at second egress window 224 of received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at second reception wavelength ⁇ 234 .
- second reception filter 244 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 202 received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at second reception wavelength ⁇ 234 .
- a third reception filter 246 tuned to third reception wavelength ⁇ 236 is positioned in third egress window 226 .
- Third reception filter 246 permits third received signals K 236 to emerge from transmission block 202 at third egress window 226 , but bars passage out of transmission block 202 at third egress window 226 of received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at third reception wavelength ⁇ 236 .
- third reception filter 246 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 202 received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at third reception wavelength ⁇ 236 .
- a fourth reception filter 248 tuned to fourth reception wavelength ⁇ 238 is positioned in fourth egress window 228 .
- Fourth reception filter 248 permits fourth received signals K 238 to emerge from transmission block 202 at fourth egress window 228 , but bars passage out of transmission block 202 at fourth egress window 228 of received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at fourth reception wavelength ⁇ 238 .
- fourth reception filter 248 reflects back toward the interior of transmission block 202 received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at fourth reception wavelength ⁇ 238 .
- the second additional associated structure located between each detector of multiplexer 200 and the egress window associated therewith is a lens that is positioned in close proximity to the input side of each detector in alignment with the reception axis thereof.
- Each lens is capable of reorienting received signals from the reception filter positioned in the associated egress window through an acute angle into alignment with the reception axis of the associated detector and along a redirected reception pathway to detector.
- a first lens 252 is associated with first detector 232 and positioned at the input side of first detector 232 between first detector 232 and first reception filter 242 in first egress window 222 .
- a second lens 254 associated with second detector 234 is positioned between the input side of second detector 234 and second reception filter 244 in second egress window 224 .
- associated with third detector 236 is a third lens 256 that is positioned between the input side of third detector 236 and third reception filter 246 in third egress window 226 .
- fourth detector 238 is a fourth lens 248 that is positioned between the input side of fourth detector 238 and fourth reception filter 248 in fourth egress window 228 .
- Demultiplexer 200 also includes a multiplexed signal receiving port 260 that is disposed on first side 204 of transmission block 202 .
- Multiplexed signal receiving port 260 is positioned to direct a multiplexed reception signal R M into transmission block 202 at a multiplexed reception signal admission window 262 in second coating 214 .
- multiplexed reception signal K M is separated into the constituent received signals thereof by being reflected within transmission block 202 between the first coating 112 and second coating 114 toward the detectors of demultiplexer 200 .
- Demultiplexer 200 further includes a prism 264 positioned between multiplexed reception signal admission window 262 and multiplexed signal receiving port 260 .
- Prism 264 is capable of bending the path of multiplexed reception signal K M out of optical alignment with the optical transmitting axis T 260 of multiplexed signal receiving port 260 and into transmission block 202 at multiplexed reception signal admission window 262 .
- transmitting axis T 260 of multiplexed signal receiving port 260 can be made to be parallel to first surface 206 of transmission block 202 .
- a multiplexed reception signal K M transmitted from multiplexed signal receiving port 260 includes by way of example, first received signal K 232 at first reception wavelength ⁇ 232 , second received signal K 234 at second reception wavelength ⁇ 234 , third received signal K 126 at third reception wavelength ⁇ 236 , and fourth received signal K 238 at fourth reception wavelength ⁇ 238 .
- the received signals contained in multiplexed reception signal K M remained optically aligned during repeated internal reflections of multiplexed reception signal K M within transmission block 202 between first side 204 and second side 208 thereof.
- the series of reflections progresses the received signals within transmission block 102 away from multiplexed signal receiving port 260 in a direction parallel to first side 204 and second side 208 .
- the constituents of multiplexed reception signal K M in turn to each of the reception filters on first side 204 of transmission block 202
- the constituent received signal at the optical wavelength passed by that particular reception filter emerges from transmission block 202 and is directed to the associated detector for retransmission.
- the remaining constituent received signals from multiplexed reception signal K M continue internal reflections in transmission block 202 away from multiplexed signal receiving port 260 .
- the next reception filter is reached, another constituent received signal is separated from the group. The process continues until each received signals have been separated from all others.
- first received signal K 232 engages in the shortest path of travel interior of transmission block 202 .
- First received signal K 232 enters transmission block 202 at multiplexed reception signal admission window 262 with the other constituent received signals in multiplexed reception signal K M and makes but a single transit of transmission block 202 to first reception filter 242 in first egress window 222 .
- first received signal K 232 emerges from transmission block 202 , as first reception wavelength ⁇ 232 thereof is the optical wavelength that is able to pass through first reception filter 242 .
- Second received signal K 234 , third received signal K 126 , and fourth received signal K 238 are, however, reflected back toward first surface 206 of transmission block 202 by first reception filter 242 . Following a first reflection at first surface 206 , a second reflection at second surface 210 , and finally yet a third reflection at first surface 206 again, this group of remaining constituent received signals reach second reception filter 244 in second egress window 224 . There second received signal K 234 emerges from transmission block 202 , as second reception wavelength ⁇ 234 thereof is the optical wavelength that is able to pass through second reception filter 244 .
- Third received signal K 126 , and fourth received signal K 238 are, however, reflected back toward first surface 206 of transmission block 202 by second reception filter 244 . Following a first reflection at first surface 206 , a second reflection at second surface 210 , and finally yet a third reflection at first surface 206 again, this group of remaining constituent received signals reach third reception filter 246 in third egress window 226 . There, third received signal K 236 emerges from transmission block 202 , as third reception wavelength ⁇ 236 thereof is the optical wavelength that is able to pass through third reception filter 246 .
- Fourth received signal K 238 is, however, reflected back toward first surface 206 of transmission block 202 by third reception filter 246 . Following a first reflection at first surface 206 , a second reflection at second surface 210 , and finally yet a third reflection at first surface 206 again, this remaining constituent received signal reaches fourth reception filter 248 in fourth egress window 228 . There, fourth received signal K 238 emerges from transmission block 202 , as fourth reception wavelength ⁇ 238 thereof is the optical wavelength that is able to pass through fourth reception filter 248 .
- demultiplexer 200 Selected portions of demultiplexer 200 will be addressed in further detail relative to the enlarged depictions presented in FIGS. 8 and 9 .
- FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic depiction of a typical detector and the set of lens, reception filter, and egress aperture associated therewith in demultiplexer 200 .
- first detector 232 is shown and first egress window 222 that is associated therewith. Between first detector 232 and first egress window 222 , the associated first reception filter 242 and first lens 252 also appear.
- First detector 232 recognizes received signals K 232 at first reception wavelength ⁇ 232 .
- Received signal K 232 must, however, be directed to the input side of first detector 232 in alignment with reception axis R 232 of first reception filter 242 .
- First lens 252 is optically aligned with reception axis R 232 of first detector 232 at a focal length F 252 away from the input side of first detector 232 .
- Focal length F 252 is determined by the nature of first detector 232 and other performance criteria intended for demultiplexer 200 . It is the function of first lens 252 to reorient received signal K 232 from first reception filter 242 through an acute tilt angle ⁇ 252 into alignment with reception axis R 232 of first detector 232 .
- the distance between first detector's axis R 232 and first lens' optical axis 251 determines the tilted angle ⁇ 252 of beam K 232 . Then received signal K 232 can enter first detector 232 to be recognized and retransmitted thereby.
- Tilt angle ⁇ 252 of the beam K 232 is set equal to the angle of incidence in air for first reception filter 242 . Reorienting the pathway for first received signals K 232 in this manner permits the desirable result of being able to position first detector 232 with reception axis R 232 oriented at and substantially normal to second surface 210 of transmission block 202 . This harmonizes the functional axis of first detector 232 with axes otherwise standard in industry, facilitating easy coupling and replacement of a demultiplexer, such as demultiplexer 200 , as a modular component among others in a complex optical system.
- FIG. 9 depicts prism 264 attached to first surface 206 of transmission block 202 in demultiplexer 200 .
- Prism 264 may be similar in material composition, physical configuration, method of manufacture, and manner of attachment to prism 164 of multiplexer 100 in FIG. 2 .
- Prism 264 has a longest face 268 that is perpendicular to first surface 206 of transmission block 202 and an inclined face 270 that forms a dihedral incline angle ⁇ 270 with longest face 268 .
- Multiplexed reception signal K M emerges from multiplexed signal receiving port 260 along transmitting axis T 260 and enters prism 164 through longest face 268 thereof.
- Incline angle ⁇ 170 is calculated to permit prism 264 to bend the path of multiplexed reception signal K M out of alignment with transmitting axis T 260 and into transmission block 202 through the face of prism 164 that is attached thereto.
- incline angle 270 is so established that transmitting axis T 260 of multiplexed signal receiving port 260 and the initial path of multiplexed reception signal K M can be parallel to first surface 206 of transmission block 202 .
- the longitudinal positioning of prism 264 along first surface 206 of transmission block 202 at multiplexed reception signal admission window 262 can be used to determine the separation distance E from first surface 206 of the path along which multiplexed reception signal K M initially travels to reach prism 264 . This in turn is equivalent to determining how far away from first surface 206 it is necessary to position transmitting axis T 260 , and in turn how to dispose multiplexed signal receiving port 260 relative to the other elements of demultiplexer 200 . Altering the location of prism 264 in the manner suggested by two-sided arrow S in FIG. 9 will correspondingly vary separation distance E of multiplexed reception signal K M from first surface 206 . Shifting prism 264 in the direction indicated by the left side of arrow S will reduce separation distance E, while shifting prism 264 in the direction indicated by the right side of arrow S will increase separation distance E.
- the teachings of the present invention enable transmission block 202 of demultiplexer 200 to have a width W 202 that is substantially reduced in width.
- the increased number of internal reflections of signals attainable in a transmission block, such as transmission block 202 advantageously enables width W 202 thereof to be as small as 10 millimeters. Therefrom corresponding economies of size reduction can be attained in all related optical devices and manufacturing methodologies.
- an optical signal demultiplexer such as demultiplexer 200
- multiplexing means cooperative with the transmission block thereof for combining transmitted signals at respective transmission wavelengths into a single multiplexed transmission signal.
- FIG. 10 A single optical device both the functions of multiplexer 100 of FIG. 2 and the functions of demultiplexer 200 of FIG. 7 is shown by way of completeness in FIG. 10 as a multiplexer-demultiplexer 300 .
- any reference character that is identical to a reference character used in FIG. 2 or 7 is intended to identify an element that is structurally and functionally identical among the figures in which that same reference character appears.
- multiplexer-demultiplexer 300 includes an optical transmission block 302 that may be similar in material composition, physical configuration, and method of manufacture to either or both of transmission block 102 of multiplexer 100 in FIG. 2 or transmission block 202 of demultiplexer 200 in FIG. 7 .
- transmission block 302 has on a first side 304 thereof a planar first surface 306 and on an opposed second side 308 thereof a planar second surface 310 that is parallel to first surface 306 .
- transmission block 302 has a width W 302 .
- Transmission block 302 carries a highly reflective first coating 312 on first surface 306 and a highly reflective second coating 314 on second surface 310 .
- first coating 312 at selected locations along first surface 306 are a plurality of admission windows at which first surface 306 of transmission block 302 is neither internally nor externally reflective of optical signals.
- second coating 314 at selected locations along second surface 310 are a plurality of egress windows at which second surface 310 of transmission block 302 is neither internally nor externally reflective of optical signals.
- these admission windows and egress windows are not labeled in FIG. 10 .
- Multiplexer-demultiplexer 300 is so configured as to be capable, through teachings of the present invention presented relative to multiplexer 100 and demultiplexer 200 , of combining four transmitted signals at respective distinct optical transmission wavelengths in to a single multiplexed transmission signal, and of separating a single multiplexed reception signal containing four received signals at respective distinct optical reception wavelengths into those constituent received signals.
- One or more of the distinct optical transmission wavelengths may be identical to a corresponding one of the distinct optical reception wavelengths.
- a smaller or a larger number of transmitted signals or received signals may be effectively manipulated by a multiplexer-demultiplexer, such as multiplexer-demultiplexer 300 , and the number of transmitted and received may or may not be identical in any given inventive embodiment thereof without departing from the teachings of the present invention.
- the teachings of the present invention enable transmission block 302 of multiplexer-demultiplexer 300 to have a width W 302 that is substantially reduced in width.
- the increased number of internal reflections of signals attainable in a transmission block, such as transmission block 302 advantageously enables width W 302 thereof to be as small as 10 millimeters.
- the present invention also contemplates a method for processing a plurality of optical signals at a corresponding plurality of respective individual wavelengths. That method includes the step of covering opposed parallel first and second planar surfaces on respective first and second sides of an optical signal transmission block with highly reflective first and second coatings.
- a plurality of lasers capable of producing transmitted signals at distinct transmission wavelengths are positioned on the first side of the transmission block with the transmission axis of each of the lasers oriented at and substantially normal to the first surface of the transmission block.
- Transmitted signals from the lasers are reorienting into the transmission block through the first surface thereof along parallel paths at an acute tilt angle to the transmission axis of each respective laser.
- the transmitted signals are then reflected within the transmission block between the first and second coatings in a direction that is parallel to the first and second surfaces and away from the lasers. Following these reflections, the transmitted signals emerge in mutual optical alignment from the second surface of the transmission block as a multiplexed transmission signal, which is received in a signal transmission port on the second side of the transmission block.
- the method may also includes the steps of orienting the receiving axis of the transmission port parallel to the second surface of the transmission block, and bending the path of the multiplexed transmission signal into optical alignment with the receiving axis of the transmitting port. Additionally, a plurality of admission windows are formed through the first coating corresponding in one-to-one relation to the plurality of lasers, and signals passing through each of the admission windows are filtered to the transmission wavelength of the transmitted signals produced by the laser corresponding thereto. A multiplex signal egress window is formed in the second coating.
- a method as described above also includes the steps of delivering into the transmissions block through the first surface thereof a multiplexed reception signal containing a plurality of received signals at respective reception wavelengths, and positioning a plurality of optical detectors capable of detecting received signals at a respective reception wavelength on the second side of the transmission block with the receiving axis of each of the detectors oriented at and substantially normal to the second surface of the transmission block.
- the received signals delivered into the transmission block are reflecting within the transmission block between the first and second coatings in a direction that is parallel to the first and second surfaces and toward the detectors. Following these reflections, the received signals emerge from the second surface of the transmission block and are reoriented into alignment with the receiving axis of each of the detectors.
- the step of delivering comprises the steps of positioning a multiplexed signal receiving port on the first side of the transmission block with the transmission axis of the receiving port oriented parallel to the first surface of the transmission block, transmitting the multiplexed reception signal from the receiving port, and bending the path of the multiplexed transmission signal from the transmission axis of the receiving port into a non-perpendicular angle of incidence with the first surface of the transmission block.
- the method also involves the steps of forming a plurality of egress windows through the second coating corresponding in one-to-one relation to the plurality of detectors, and forming a multiplex signal access window in the first coating.
- Each of the detectors is tuned to the reception wavelength corresponding thereto, and the step of doing so includes the step of filtering to a respective individual reception wavelength received signals emerging from the transmission block at each egress window.
Abstract
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/866,729, entitled “Multiplexer and Demultiplexer Structure for High-Speed Optical Transceivers,” filed Nov. 21, 2006, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- A. Technical Field
- The present invention relates generally to the processing of optical signals, and more particularly, to the multiplexing and the demultiplexing of optical signals.
- B. Background of the Invention
- An optical multiplexer merges into mutual optical alignment as a single multiplexed signal a plurality of optical signals that are each at a different optical wavelength. For example, optical signals produced at different optical wavelengths by a corresponding number of distinct lasers may be combined by an optical multiplexer into a multiplexed transmitted signal that can then be retransmitted from a single multiplexed signal transmitting port. In an optical system, therefore, an optical multiplexer is the interconnecting link between a plurality of optical fibers bearing a corresponding plurality of transmitted signals and a single optical fiber on which that plurality of signals is able to be communicated in the form of a multiplexed transmission signal.
- An optical demultiplexer reverses this process, separating a multiplexed signal that includes a plurality of signals at distinct wavelengths into that corresponding plurality of constituent signals. Thus, a multiplexed received signal from a single signal receiving port can be converted by an optical demultiplexer into the separate received signals at respective individual wavelengths that are included in the original multiplexed received signal. In an optical system, therefore, an optical demultiplexer is the interconnecting link between a single optical fiber on which a multiplexed received signal is being communicated and a plurality of optical fibers that each bears an individual of the received signals that had been included in that original multiplexed received signal.
- The present invention includes teachings directed toward the design and construction of a spatially-efficient optical multiplexer. The present invention also pertains to the design and construction of a spatially-efficient optical demultiplexer.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides a unitary structure that is capable of performing both, the function associated with an optical multiplexer, and the function associated with an optical demultiplexer. Such a structure, an optical multiplexer and demultiplexer, is advantageous in reducing the overall size and cost of components in optical systems.
- The present invention also encompasses methods for processing plural optical signals at a corresponding plurality of distinct optical wavelengths. In particular, the teachings of the present invention relate to the consolidation of such plural optical signals into multiplexed signals, and to the separation of multiplexed signals into the constituent plural optical signals thereof.
- Certain features and advantages of the present invention have been generally described in this summary section; however, additional features, advantages, and embodiments are presented herein or will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings, specification, and claims hereof. Accordingly, it should be understood that the scope of the invention shall not be limited by the particular embodiments disclosed in this summary section.
- Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in the accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in the context of these embodiments, it should be understood that doing so is not to be construed as evidencing any intention whatsoever to limit the scope of the invention to those particular embodiments.
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FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the interactions among typical elements of a known optical multiplexer. -
FIG. 2 is a diagram depicting an embodiment of an optical multiplexer that incorporates teachings of the present invention. -
FIG. 3 is an enlarged diagrammatic depiction of a lens, a transmission filter, and an admission window associated with each of the lasers that is used to provide a transmitted signal as an input to the multiplexer ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 4 is an enlarged diagrammatic depiction of the prism that is used to affect the path of the multiplexed transmitted signal produced by the multiplexer ofFIG. 2 -
FIGS. 5A and 5B are related diagrams that illustrate, respectively, the transmission of a multiplexed transmitted signal in one direction through a multiplexed transmitted signal isolator at the input side of the multiplexed signal transmitting port of the multiplexer ofFIG. 2 , and the absorption of a multiplexed transmitted signal attempting to pass in the opposite direction through the multiplexed transmitted signal isolator. -
FIGS. 6A and 6B are related diagrams that illustrate an aspect of spatial efficiency promoted by the teachings of the present invention, making comparative reference, respectively, to the optical transmission block from the known optical multiplexer ofFIG. 1 , and to the optical transmission block from the inventive optical multiplexer ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 7 is a diagram depicting an embodiment of an optical demultiplexer incorporating teachings of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 is an enlarged diagrammatic depiction of an egress window, a reception filter, and a lens associated with each of the optical detectors that is used to acquire individual reception signals produced by the demultiplexer ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 9 is an enlarged diagrammatic depiction of a prism that is used to affect the path of the multiplexed reception signal provided as an input to the demultiplexer ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 10 is a diagram depicting an embodiment of an optical multiplexer-demultiplexer incorporating teachings of the present invention. - In the following description, for purpose of explanation, specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the invention may be practiced without these details. One skilled in the art will recognize that embodiments of the present invention, some of which are described below, may be incorporated into a number of different optical components, devices, and systems. Structures and devices shown in block diagram are illustrative of exemplary embodiments of the invention and are meant to avoid obscuring the invention. Furthermore, connections between components within the figures are not intended to be limited to direct connections. Rather, connections between these components may be modified, reconfigured, or otherwise changed, including by the addition of intermediary components.
- Reference in the specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or function described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
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FIG. 1 depicts an example of a knownoptical multiplexer 10.Multiplexer 10 includes afirst laser 11, asecond laser 12, athird laser 13, and afourth laser 14 that each produce transmitted signals at respective distinct wavelengths. Thus,first laser 11 produces a first transmitted signal L1 at a first transmission wavelength λ1, whilesecond laser 12 produces a second transmitted signal L2 at a second transmission wavelength 2.Third laser 13 produces a third transmitted signal L3 at a third transmission wavelength λ3, andfourth laser 14 produces a fourth transmitted signal L4 at a fourth transmission wavelength λ4. It is the function ofmultiplexer 10 to merge transmitted signals L1, L2, L3, and L4 into a single multiplexed transmitted signal LM that can be presented to the input side of a multiplexedsignal transmitting port 18 for retransmission. - Toward that end, positioned among
lasers signal transmitting port 18 is an opticalsignal transmission block 20.Transmission block 20 has on afirst side 22 thereof a planarfirst surface 24 and on an opposedsecond side 26 thereof a planarsecond surface 28 that is parallel tofirst surface 24. As measured betweenfirst surface 24 andsecond surface 28,transmission block 20 has a width W20. -
First laser 11 andthird laser 13 are disposed onfirst side 22 oftransmission block 20 with the optical transmission axis of each directed towardfirst surface 24 at an angle of incidence α.Second laser 14 andfourth laser 14 are disposed onsecond side 26 oftransmission block 20 with the optical transmission axis of each directed atsecond surface 28 at an equal angle of incidence α. Multiplexedsignal transmitting port 18 is located onfirst side 22 oftransmission block 20 with the input side of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 18 facingfirst surface 24 oftransmission block 20. - The location on
first surface 24 at which each respective transmission axis is oriented is the location at which a transmitted signal traveling along that transmission axis will entertransmission block 20. As used hereinafter, the expression “admission window” employed by reference to a transmitted signal is intended to refer to the location on a surface of a transmission block, such astransmission block 10, at which that transmitted signal is intended or able to enter into the transmission block. Thus as illustrated inFIG. 2 , the transmission axis offirst laser 11 is oriented at afirst admission window 31 onfirst surface 24 oftransmission block 10, while the transmission axis ofsecond laser 12 is oriented at asecond admission window 32 onsecond surface 28 oftransmission block 10. Meanwhile, the transmission axis ofthird laser 13 is oriented at athird admission window 33 onfirst surface 24 oftransmission block 10, and the transmission axis offourth laser 14 is oriented at afourth admission window 34 onsecond surface 28 oftransmission block 10. - The output side of each of
lasers multiplexer 10 from reaching the output side of the laser, as this could cause damage to the laser otherwise interfere with optimum laser operation. Thus, a shown inFIG. 1 , a first transmittedsignal isolator 61 is positioned at the output side offirst laser 11, a second transmittedsignal isolator 62 is positioned at the output side ofsecond laser 12, a third transmittedsignal isolator 63 is positioned at the output side ofthird laser 13, and a fourth transmittedsignal isolator 64 is positioned at the output side offourth laser 14. - A transmission filter is associated with each of lasers 11-14 and is positioned at and about the admission window on
first surface 24 orsecond surface 28 oftransmission block 20 at which the transmission axis of individual of lasers 11-14 is oriented. Each filter passes signals at the transmission wavelength with each respective laser functions. Thus, each transmission filter also bars passage of transmitted signals, or of reflected components of transmitted signals, at any other wavelength. From the interior oftransmission block 20, these transmission filters function as mirrors, reflecting back toward the interior oftransmission block 20 any transmitted signals at those other wavelengths that approachesfirst surface 24 orsecond surface 28 oftransmission block 20 from the interior thereof. - As accordingly illustrated in
FIG. 1 , afirst transmission filter 71 is positioned onfirst surface 24 oftransmission block 20 at and aboutfirst admission window 31 at which are directed the transmission axis offirst laser 11 and any first transmitted signal L1 at first transmission wavelength λ1 produced thereby.First transmission filter 71 passes signals at first transmission wavelength λ1 and bars passage of signals at any other optical wavelength. - Thus,
first transmission filter 71 permits first transmitted signal L1 to entertransmission block 20 atfirst admission window 31 at an angle of refraction A1 from the perpendicular tofirst surface 24 oftransmission block 20 atfirst admission window 31. Correspondingly,first transmission filter 71 bars passage intotransmission block 20 atfirst admission window 31 of signals and components of signals at any wavelength other than at first transmission wavelength λ1. Finally,first transmission filter 71 also reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 20 signals and components of signals at any optical wavelength other than first transmission wavelength λ1. - Each of the balance of the transmission filters shown in
FIG. 1 will be described individually below. - As illustrated in
FIG. 1 , asecond transmission filter 72 is positioned onsecond surface 28 oftransmission block 20 at and aboutsecond admission window 32 at which are directed the transmission axis ofsecond laser 12 and any second transmitted signal L2 at second transmission wavelength λ2 produced thereby.Second transmission filter 72 passes signals at second transmission wavelength λ2 and bars passage of signals at any other transmission wavelength. - Thus,
second transmission filter 72 permits second transmitted signal L2 to entertransmission block 20 atsecond admission window 32. Correspondingly,second transmission filter 72 bars passage intotransmission block 20 atsecond admission window 32 of signals and components of signals at any wavelength other than at second transmission wavelength λ2. Finally,second transmission filter 72 also reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 20 signals and components of signals at any optical wavelength other than second transmission wavelength λ2. Therefore, as shown,second transmission filter 72 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 20 first transmitted signal L1, which is at a wavelength different from second transmission wavelength λ2. - First transmitted signal L1 thus commences a series of reflections interior of
transmission block 20 that collectively progress first transmitted signal L1 toward multiplexedsignal transmitting port 18 in a direction parallel tofirst surface 24 andsecond surface 28 oftransmission block 20. In that series of reflections, first transmitted signal L1 is accompanied aftersecond admission window 32 by second transmitted signal L2 as shown. - A
third transmission filter 73 is positioned onfirst surface 24 oftransmission block 20 at and aboutthird admission window 33 at which are directed the transmission axis ofthird laser 13 and any third transmitted signal L3 at third transmission wavelength λ3 produced thereby.Third transmission filter 73 passes signals at third transmission wavelength λ3 and bars passage of signals at any other optical wavelength. - Thus,
third transmission filter 73 permits third transmitted signal L3 to entertransmission block 20 atthird admission window 33. Correspondingly,third transmission filter 73 bars passage intotransmission block 20 atthird admission window 33 of signals and components of signals at any wavelength other than at third transmission wavelength λ3. Finally,third transmission filter 73 also reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 20 signals and components of signals at any optical wavelength other than third transmission wavelength λ3. Therefore, as shown,third transmission filter 73 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 20 transmitted signals L1-L2, which are at wavelengths different from third transmission wavelength λ3. - Second transmitted signal L2 thus commences and joins first transmitted signal L1 in a shared series of reflections interior of
transmission block 20 that collectively progress second transmitted signal L2 and first transmitted signal L1 toward multiplexedsignal transmitting port 18 in a direction parallel tofirst surface 24 andsecond surface 28 oftransmission block 20. In that series of reflections, second transmitted signal L2 and first transmitted signal L1 are accompanied afterthird admission window 33 by third transmitted signal L3 as shown. - Finally, a
fourth transmission filter 74 is positioned onsecond surface 28 oftransmission block 20 at and aboutfourth admission window 34 at which are directed the transmission axis offourth laser 14 and any fourth transmitted signal L4 at fourth transmission wavelength λ4 produced thereby.Fourth transmission filter 74 passes signals at fourth transmission wavelength λ4 and bars passage of signals at any other optical wavelength. - Thus,
fourth transmission filter 74 permits fourth transmitted signal L4 to entertransmission block 20 atfourth admission window 34. Correspondingly,fourth transmission filter 74 bars passage intotransmission block 20 atfourth admission window 34 of signals and components of signals at any wavelength other than at fourth transmission wavelength λ4. Finally,fourth transmission filter 74 also reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 20 signals and components of signals at any optical wavelength other than fourth transmission wavelength λ4. Therefore, as shown,fourth transmission filter 72 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 20 transmitted signals L1-L3, which are at wavelengths different from fourth transmission wavelength λ4. - Third transmitted signal L3 thus commences and joins transmitted signals L1-L2 in a shared additional reflection interior of
transmission block 20 that progress transmitted signals L1-L3 toward multiplexedsignal transmitting port 18 in a direction parallel tofirst surface 24 andsecond surface 28 oftransmission block 20. Afterfourth admission window 34, transmitted signals L1-L3 are accompanied by fourth transmitted signal L4 as shown. - Transmitted signals L1-L4 thereafter emerge in mutual optical alignment from
first surface 24 oftransmission block 20 as multiplexed transmission signal LM and enter the input side of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 18 for retransmission in consolidated form. - In achieving this result, among all of transmitted signals L1-L4, first transmitted signal L1 engages in the longest path of travel interior of
transmission block 20. Enteringtransmission block 20 throughfirst transmission filter 71 atfirst admission window 31, first transmitted signal L1 travels acrosstransmission block 20 tosecond admission window 32 onsecond surface 28. There first transmitted signal L1 is reflected back toward the interior oftransmission block 20 bysecond transmission filter 72. Returning acrosstransmission block 20 tothird admission window 33 onfirst surface 24, first transmitted signal L1 is reflected toward the interior of transmission block 20 a second time, on this occasion bythird transmission filter 73. First transmitted signal L1 then passes acrosstransmission block 20 again tofourth admission window 34 onsecond surface 28. There first transmitted signal L1 is reflected toward the interior oftransmission block 20 byfourth transmission filter 74. Finally, first transmitted signal L1 travels acrosstransmission block 20 for the last time, emerging fromfirst surface 24 oftransmission block 20 as part of multiplexed transmission signal LM. - Second transmitted signal L2 engages in a less lengthy path of travel interior of
transmission block 20, but one that is nonetheless longer than that traveled by third transmitted signal L3 or fourth transmitted signal L4.Entering transmission block 20 throughsecond transmission filter 72 atsecond admission window 32, second transmitted signal L2 travels acrosstransmission block 20 tothird admission window 33 onfirst surface 24. There second transmitted signal L2 is reflected toward the interior oftransmission block 20 bythird transmission filter 73. Second transmitted signal L2 then passes acrosstransmission block 20 again tofourth admission window 34 onsecond surface 28. There second transmitted signal L2 is reflected toward the interior oftransmission block 20 byfourth transmission filter 74. Finally, second transmitted signal L2 travels acrosstransmission block 20 for the last time, emerging fromfirst surface 24 oftransmission block 20 as part of multiplexed transmitted signal LM. - The path of travel undertaken interior of
transmission block 20 by third transmitted signal L3 even shorter, and less complicated. Enteringtransmission block 20 throughthird transmission filter 73 atthird admission window 33, third transmitted signal L3 travels acrosstransmission block 20 tofourth admission window 34 onsecond surface 28. There third transmitted signal L3 is reflected toward the interior oftransmission block 20 byfourth transmission filter 74. Third transmitted signal L3 then travels acrosstransmission block 20, emerging fromfirst surface 24 oftransmission block 20 as part of multiplexed transmission signal LM. - Fourth transmitted signal L4 enters
transmission block 20 throughfourth transmission filter 74 atfourth admission window 34 and then simply travels acrosstransmission block 20 without experiencing any internal reflections whatsoever to emerge fromfirst surface 24 oftransmission block 20 as the final component of multiplexed transmission signal LM. - A demultiplexer configured according to the principles illustrated in known
multiplexer 10 ofFIG. 1 would use a multiplexed signal receiving port in place of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 18 and a plurality of optical detectors positioned on both sides oftransmission block 20 in place individually of lasers 11-14. The demultiplexer would process signals traveling in directions essentially opposite from those indicated for multiplexed transmission signal LM and transmitted signals L1-L4 inmultiplexer 10 inFIG. 1 . - The multiplexed transmitted signal receiving port of the multiplexer would direct into
transmission block 20 throughfirst surface 24 thereof a multiplexed reception signal made up of constituent received signals at respective distinct optical wavelengths. The multiplexed reception signal would then be reflected internally oftransmission block 20 between the opposed surfaces thereof and deconstructed in the process into those constituent received signals. These would then be delivered individually through transmission filters 71-74 to a corresponding of the optical detectors for retransmission independently. - Several disadvantages presented in
multiplexer 10, as well as in a correspondingly configured known demultiplexer of the type described immediately above, have been recognized by the coinventors of the present invention and resolved through the teachings thereof. A sampling of some of those disadvantages will be presented immediately below, following which the present invention will be disclosed by making reference to exemplary embodiments thereof. - The overall size of
multiplexer 10, or of a correspondingly configured known demultiplexer, is relatively large. The size of such optical devices is largely a function of the thickness W20 oftransmission block 20. For example, lasers, such as lasers 11-14, used in a TO-56 package, or of optical detectors of a correspondingly configured known demultiplexer, have diameters of about 5.6 mm. The distance between the transmission axes of lasers of this size, or between receiving axes of corresponding optical detectors, should be greater than about 6.2 mm. For a typical angle of incidence α=about 13.5 degrees in air of optical transmission signals or of optical reception signals relative to transmission filters 71-74, it should be the case that angle of refraction A1=about 9.3 degrees. Under such conditions, however, it will be necessary thattransmission block 20 have a width W20=20 mm. Such a dimension intransmission block 20 is incompatible with compact sizing requirements associated with contemporary transceivers, such as the Xenpak receiver or the X2 transceiver. - To facilitate easy coupling with a transceiver or the efficient replacement of components thereof, the constituent elements of a demultiplexer or of a multiplexer, should relate functionally to each other and to the overall architecture of the transceiver along functional axes that harmonize with axes standard in industry. That is not the case with
multiplexer 10, or with a correspondingly configured demultiplexer, where the transmission axes of lasers 11-14 are at a relatively arbitrary angle of incidence α to the surfaces oftransmission block 20, or where the receiving axis of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 18 is at another incidentally determined angle to the surfaces oftransmission block 20 and to the transmission axes of lasers 11-14. Such are less than ideal spatial relationships among functional components in subsytems intended for use in increasingly modularly related optical systems, such as optical systems employing optical transceivers. - Due to the absence from
multiplexer 10, or from a correspondingly configured demultiplexer, of ideal spatial relationships among functional components, optical multiplexer functions must be preformed by structures distinct from the structures that perform optical demultiplexer functions. Should both functions be required in a single transceiver, for example, distinct hardware must be dedicated to each function. Furthermore, distinct spaces must be accorded in that single optical device to multiplexer hardware and to demultiplexer hardware. Transceiver size and cost are both impacted adversely. - Isolators, such as transmitted signal isolators 61-64, can be the most costly components in a multiplexer, such as
multiplexer 10. Accordingly, the resort to the use of a proliferation of such isolators to protect the plurality of lasers 11-14 employed inmultiplexer 10 is less than desirable. - Although the present invention provides a unitary structure that is capable of performing both, the function associated with an optical multiplexer, and the function associated with an optical demultiplexer, the present invention also includes teachings directed toward the design and construction individually of a spatially-efficient optical multiplexer and of a spatially-efficient optical demultiplexer. Accordingly, these individual aspects of the present invention will first be explored completely, before discussing the combination of both in an inventive unitary optical multiplexer and demultiplexer.
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FIG. 2 depicts one embodiment of anoptical multiplexer 100 incorporating teachings of the present invention.Multiplexer 100 is so configured as to be capable of combining four input transmitted signals at respective distinct optical wavelengths into a single output that takes the form of a multiplexed transmission signal. A smaller or a larger number of such input transmission signals may be combined into a single multiplexed transmission signal output in other embodiments of the present invention. Centrally,multiplexer 100 includes anoptical transmission block 102 that has on afirst side 104 thereof a planarfirst surface 106 and on an opposedsecond side 108 thereof a planarsecond surface 110 that is parallel tofirst surface 106. As measured betweenfirst surface 106 andsecond surface 110,transmission block 102 has a width W102. In the embodiment of the invention shown inFIG. 2 ,transmission block 102 is made of a silicon-based optically transparent material. Nonetheless, other optically transmitting materials may be particularly suited for use in other embodiments of the present invention. -
Transmission block 102 is rendered internally and externally reflective of optical signals by a highly reflectivefirst coating 112 onfirst surface 106 and a highly reflectivesecond coating 114 onsecond surface 110. In the embodiment of the invention depicted inFIG. 2 ,coatings Coatings first surface 106 and tosecond surface 110, respectively, in any manner and at any stage of fabrication that is consistent with the conditions of use intended formultiplexer 100. It is not necessary, however, that each ofcoatings coatings - Formed through
first coating 112 at selected locations alongfirst surface 106 are a plurality of admission windows at whichfirst surface 106 oftransmission block 102 is neither internally nor externally reflective of optical signals. The plurality of admission windows depicted inFIG. 2 includes afirst admission window 122, asecond admission window 124, athird admission window 126, and afourth admission window 128. The number of admission windows in a reflective coating, such asfirst coating 112, will vary with and generally correspond at least to the number of optical transmission signals at distinct optical wavelengths that are to be combined by a multiplexer, such asmultiplexer 100. Therefore, a smaller or a greater number of such admission windows may be required in other inventive multiplexer embodiments. - Admission windows in
first coating 112 are created by any process harmonious with the methods by which a multiplexer, such asmultiplexer 100, is to be manufactured. Thus, for example, the admission windows infirst coating 112 may be formed by masking the location of each intended admission window whenfirst coating 112 is originally deposited on or applied totransmission block 102. Alternatively,first coating 112 may be deposited or applied to the entirety offirst surface 106, while portions offirst coating 112 are removed subsequently at each location intended for an admission window. - Also included in
multiplexer 100 is a plurality of lasers that are positioned on the same side oftransmission block 102, in the case illustrated inFIG. 2 onfirst side 104. Each of the lasers is capable of producing transmitted signals at a respective individual transmission wavelength, wherefore a smaller or a larger number of lasers may be employed in other embodiments of the invention, depending on the number of transmitted signals to be combined into a single multiplexed transmission signal. The transmission axis of each of the lasers is desirable oriented at and substantially normal tofirst surface 106 oftransmission block 102. - The plurality of lasers shown in the embodiment of
FIG. 2 includes afirst laser 132, asecond laser 134, athird laser 136, and afourth laser 138.First laser 132 produces transmitted signals J132 at a first transmission wavelength λ132 and has a transmission axis T132 that is oriented at and substantially normal tofirst surface 106 oftransmission block 102.Second laser 134 produces transmitted signals J134 at a second transmission wavelength λ134 and has a transmission axis T134 that is also oriented at and substantially normal tofirst surface 106.Third laser 136 produces transmitted signals J136 at a third transmission wavelength λ136 and has a transmission axis T136 that is oriented at and substantially normal tofirst surface 106. Finally,fourth laser 138 produces transmitted signals J138 at a fourth transmission wavelength λ138 and has a transmission axis T138 that is in addition oriented at and substantially normal tofirst surface 106 oftransmission block 102. Appropriate lasers for use inmultiplexer 100 include FP lasers, DBF lasers, and VCSEL lasers. - Each of the lasers shown in
FIG. 2 is associated with a corresponding one of the admission windows formed infirst coating 112 onfirst surface 106 oftransmission block 102. Thus,first admission window 122 is associated withfirst laser 132,second admission window 124 is associated withsecond laser 134,third admission window 126 is associated withthird laser 136, and finally,fourth admission window 128 is associated withfourth laser 138. - Located between each laser of
multiplexer 100 and the admission window associated therewith are a pair of additional associated structures. - The first of these additional associated structures is an optical filter that is positioned on
first surface 106 oftransmission block 102 filling the associated admission window. Each such optical filter operates at the transmission wavelength of the associated laser, thereby blocking from entry into or egress fromtransmission block 102 through the admission window in which it is located any signal other than transmitted signals at the transmission wavelength of the associated laser. From the interior oftransmission block 102, these transmission filters function as mirrors, reflecting back toward the interior oftransmission block 102 any transmitted signals at those other wavelengths that approachesfirst surface 106 orsecond surface 110 oftransmission block 102 from the interior thereof. - Thus, a
first transmission filter 142 operating at first transmission wavelength λ132 is positioned infirst admission window 122.First transmission filter 142 permits first transmitted signals J132 to enter transmission block 102 atfirst admission window 122, but bars passage intotransmission block 102 atfirst admission window 122 of transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at first transmission wavelength λ132. In addition,first transmission filter 142 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 102 transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at first transmission wavelength λ132. - A
second transmission filter 144 operates at second transmission wavelength λ134 and is positioned insecond admission window 124.Second transmission filter 144 permits second transmitted signals J134 to enter transmission block 102 atsecond admission window 124, but bars passage intotransmission block 102 atsecond admission window 124 of transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at second transmission wavelength λ134. In addition,second transmission filter 144 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 102 transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at first transmission wavelength λ134. - A
third transmission filter 146 that operates at second transmission wavelength λ136 is positioned inthird admission window 126.Third transmission filter 146 permits third transmitted signals J136 to enter transmission block 102 atthird admission window 126, but bars passage intotransmission block 102 atthird admission window 126 of transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at third transmission wavelength λ136. In addition,third transmission filter 142 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 102 transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at third transmission wavelength λ32. - Finally, a
fourth transmission filter 148 operating at fourth transmission wavelength λ138 is positioned infourth admission window 128.Fourth transmission filter 148 permits fourth transmitted signals J138 to enter transmission block 102 atfourth admission window 128, but bars passage intotransmission block 102 atfourth admission window 128 of transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at fourth transmission wavelength λ138. In addition,fourth transmission filter 148 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 102 transmitted signals and components of transmitted signals at any wavelength other than at fourth transmission wavelength λ138. - The second additional associated structure located between each laser of
multiplexer 100 and the admission window associated therewith is a lens that is positioned in close proximity to the output side of each laser in alignment with the transmission axis thereof. Each lens is capable of reorienting transmitted signals from the associated laser through an acute angle away from the transmission axis of that laser and along a redirected transmission pathway to the associated transmission filter positioned in the associated admission window. - Thus, as seen in
FIG. 2 , afirst lens 152 is associated withfirst laser 132 and positioned at the output side offirst laser 132 betweenfirst laser 132 andfirst transmission filter 142 infirst admission window 122. Asecond lens 154 associated withsecond laser 134 is positioned between the output side ofsecond laser 134 andsecond transmission filter 144 insecond admission window 124. Similarly, associated withthird laser 136 is athird lens 156 that is positioned between the output side ofthird laser 136 andthird transmission filter 146 inthird admission window 126. Finally, associated withfourth laser 158 is afourth lens 148 that is positioned between the output side offourth laser 158 andfourth transmission filter 148 infourth admission window 128. -
Multiplexer 100 also includes a multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 that is disposed onsecond side 108 oftransmission block 102. Multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 is positioned to receive transmitted signals from the plurality of lasers inmultiplexer 100, once those transmitted signals are placed in mutual optical alignment as a single multiplexed transmission signal JM by being reflected withintransmission block 102 toward multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 between thefirst coating 112 andsecond coating 114. As seen inFIG. 2 , multiplexed transmission signal JM emerges fromtransmission block 102 at a multiplexed transmittedsignal egress window 162 insecond coating 114. -
Multiplexer 100 further includes aprism 164 positioned between multiplexedsignal egress window 162 and multiplexedsignal transmission port 160.Prism 164 is capable of bending the path of multiplexed transmission signal JM into optical alignment with the optical receiving axis R160 of transmittingport 160. Advantageously then, receiving axis R160 of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 can be made to be parallel tosecond surface 110 oftransmission block 102. This harmonizes the functional axis of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 with axes otherwise standard in industry, facilitating easy coupling and replacement of a multiplexer, such asmultiplexer 100, as a modular component among others in a complex optical system. - Transmitted signals from the plurality of lasers in
multiplexer 100 are optically aligned by repeated internal reflections withintransmission block 102 betweenfirst side 104 andsecond side 108 thereof. The series of reflections undergone by each of the transmitted signals progresses the transmitted signals withintransmission block 102 toward multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 in a direction parallel tofirst side 104 andsecond side 108. - In achieving this result, among all of the transmitted signals, fourth transmitted signal J138 engages in the longest path of travel interior of
transmission block 102. Enteringtransmission block 102 throughfourth transmission filter 148 atfourth admission window 128, fourth transmitted signal J138 travels acrosstransmission block 102 slightly in the direction of multiplexedsignal transmission port 160 tosecond coating 114 onsecond surface 110. There fourth transmitted signal J138 is reflected back acrosstransmission block 102, again trending in the direction of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160, tofirst coating 112 onfirst surface 106. Reflections continue, sending fourth transmitted signal J138 acrosstransmission block 102 tosecond coating 114 and back acrosstransmission block 102 tofirst surface 106, always in the direction of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160. On this second return tofirst surface 106, however, fourth transmitted signals J138 encountersthird transmission filter 146 inthird admission window 126. There, fourth transmitted signal J138 is reflected onward betweenfirst surface 106 andsecond surface 110 in the direction of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160, but fourth transmitted signals J138 is joined in those additional internal reflections by third transmitted signal J136, which enterstransmission block 102 throughthird transmission filter 146 inthird admission window 126. - Third transmitted signal J136 and fourth transmitted signals J138 are optically aligned from
third admission window 126 onward during subsequent internal reflections. Those reflections continue betweenfirst coating 112 onfirst surface 106 andsecond coating 114 onsecond surface 110, until third transmitted signal J136 and fourth transmitted signals J138 encountersecond transmission filter 144 insecond admission window 124. There, third transmitted signal J136 and fourth transmitted signal J138 are reflected onward betweenfirst surface 106 andsecond surface 110 in the direction of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160, but third transmitted signal J136 and fourth transmitted signal J138 are joined in those additional internal reflections by second transmitted signal J134, which enterstransmission block 102 throughsecond transmission filter 144 insecond admission window 124. - Second transmitted signal J134, third transmitted signal J136, and fourth transmitted signal J138 are optically aligned from
second admission window 124 onward during subsequent internal reflections. Those reflections continue betweenfirst coating 112 onfirst surface 106 andsecond coating 114 onsecond surface 110, until second transmitted signal J134, third transmitted signal J136, and fourth transmitted signals J138 encounterfirst transmission filter 142 infirst admission window 122. There, second transmitted signal J134, third transmitted signal J136, and fourth transmitted signal J138 are reflected onward betweenfirst surface 106 andsecond surface 110 in the direction of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160, but second transmitted signal J134, third transmitted signal J136, and fourth transmitted signal J138 are joined in those additional internal reflections by first transmitted signal J132, which enterstransmission block 102 throughfirst transmission filter 142 infirst admission window 122. - Thereafter, first transmitted signal J132, second transmitted signal J134, third transmitted signal J136, and fourth transmitted signal J138 are optically aligned as multiplexed transmission signal JM, which makes a single transit across
transmission block 102 to multiplexedsignal egress window 162, throughprism 164, and then toward multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 for retransmission. - The input side of multiplexed
signal transmitting port 160 is provided with an optical isolator that prevents any portion of a multiplexed transmitted signal that enters multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 from being reflected from multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 back intomultiplexer 100. Such an event could cause damage to the lasers employed therein, or otherwise interfere with optimum operation. Thus, as shown inFIG. 2 , a multiplexed transmittedsignal isolator 166 is positioned at the output side of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 between transmittingport 160 andprism 164. - Selected portions of
multiplexer 100 will be addressed in further detail relative to the enlarged depictions presented inFIGS. 3-5 . -
FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic depiction of a typical laser and the set of lens, transmission filter, and admission aperture associated therewith inmultiplexer 100. There,first laser 132 is shown andfirst admission window 122 that is associated therewith. Betweenfirst laser 132 andfirst admission window 122, the associatedfirst transmission filter 142 andfirst lens 152 also appear.First laser 132 produces transmitted signals J132 at first transmission wavelength λ132. Transmitted signals J132 emerge from the output side offirst laser 132 directed towardfirst surface 106 oftransmission block 102 and in alignment with transmission axis T132 offirst laser 132. -
First lens 152 is optically aligned with transmission axis T132 offirst laser 132 at a focal length F152 away from the output side offirst laser 132. Focal length F152 is determined by the nature offirst laser 132 and other performance criteria intended formultiplexer 100. For example, if a laser transmits an optical signal with a small beam spot on the order of 1 microns, is all too easy to produce undesirable amounts of beam divergence during optical manipulation of the optical signals produced. In order to achieve a suitable beam diameter of J132 afterfirst lens 152, for example 500 um, focal length F152 is maintained quite small, in a range of from about 0.8 to about 1.0 millimeters. - It is the function of
first lens 152 to reorient transmitted signals J132 fromfirst laser 132 through an acute tilt angle μ152 away from transmission axis T132 along a redirected transmission pathway P132 tofirst admission window 122. The distance between laser's axis T132 and first lens'optical axis 151 determines the tilted angle μ152 of P132. There transmitted signals J132 pass throughfirst transmission filter 142 and enter transmission block 102 at an angle of refraction B132 from the perpendicular P122 tofirst surface 106 oftransmission block 102 atfirst admission window 122. - Tilt angle μ152 of beam P132 is set equal to the angle of incidence in air for
first transmission filter 142. Reorienting the transmission pathway for transmitted signals J132 in this manner permits the desirable result of being able to positionfirst laser 132 with transmission axis T132 oriented at and substantially normal tofirst surface 106 oftransmission block 102. This harmonizes the functional axis offirst laser 132 with axes otherwise standard in industry, facilitating easy coupling and replacement of a multiplexer, such asmultiplexer 100, as a modular component among others in a complex optical system. In one embodiment ofmultiplexer 100, satisfactory performance has been achieved with tilt angle μ152=13.5 degrees. Suitable lenses for use asfirst lens 152 include A-type lenses, D-type lenses, Grin lenses, and Ball lenses. -
FIG. 4 depictsprism 164 onsecond side 108 oftransmission block 102 inmultiplexer 100.Prism 164 is made from fused silica and is bonded tosecond surface 110 oftransmission block 102 by an epoxy adhesive possessed of an optical index close to that of fused silica.Prism 164 has alongest face 168 that is perpendicular tosecond surface 110 and aninclined face 170 that forms a dihedral incline angle 170 withlongest face 168. - Multiplexed transmission signal JM emerges from
transmission block 102 through multiplexedsignal egress window 162 and entersprism 164 through the side thereof that is secured totransmission block 102. Incline angle 170 is calculated to permitprism 164 to bend the path of multiplexed transmission signal JM into alignment with receiving axis R160 of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160. Optimally, the path of multiplexed transmission signal JM would then be parallel tosecond surface 110 oftransmission block 102, and multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 could be positioned onsecond side 108 oftransmission block 102 with receiving axis R160 parallel tosecond surface 110. In one embodiment of the inventive technology, it has been found to facilitate this objective by setting incline angle 170=49.6±0.1 degrees. - The longitudinal positioning of
prism 164 alongsecond surface 110 oftransmission block 102 at multiplexedsignal egress window 162 can be used to determine the separation distance D fromsecond surface 110 of the path that transmission signal JM travels after passing throughprism 164. This in turn is equivalent to determining how far away fromsecond surface 110 it is necessary to position receiving axis R160, and in turn how to dispose multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 relative to the other elements ofmultiplexer 100. Altering the location ofprism 164 in the manner suggested by two-sided arrow S inFIG. 4 will correspondingly vary separation distance D of multiplexed transmission signal JM fromsecond surface 110. Shiftingprism 164 in the direction indicated by the left side of arrow S will reduce separation distance D, while shiftingprism 164 in the direction indicated by the right side of arrow S will increase separation distance D. -
FIGS. 5A and 5B are related diagrams that illustrate in exploded perspective the elements and operation of multiplexedtransmission signal isolator 166 that is located on the input side of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 inmultiplexer 100 ofFIG. 2 . - Multiplexed
transmission signal isolator 166 is a dual-stage, free space isolator that includes a firstpolarized disc 172, a secondpolarized disc 174, and a thirdpolarized disc 176. Firstpolarized disc 172 and secondpolarized disc 174 are disposed in an aligned, parallel relationship sandwiching afirst garnet crystal 178 therebetween. On the opposite side of secondpolarized disc 174 fromfirst garnet crystal 178 is asecond garnet crystal 180.Second garnet crystal 180 is in turn sandwiched between secondpolarized disc 174 and thirdpolarized disc 176, which are also in an aligned, parallel relationship. Receiving axis R160 of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 is included inFIGS. 5A and 5B by way of perspective. - During the use of multiplexed
transmission signal isolator 166, thirdpolarized disc 176 of multiplexedtransmission signal isolator 166 is positioned in close proximity to multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160, while thirdpolarized disc 176 is located remotely therefrom. From this it can be appreciated that multiplexed transmission signal JM shown inFIG. 5A is successfully entering the input side of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160. On the other hand, multiplexed transmission signal JM shown inFIG. 5B is attempting, due to reflection or otherwise within multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160, to escape therefrom along receiving axis R160. In this attempt, multiplexed transmission signal JM is as intended, entirely unsuccessful. - The transparent direction of each of
polarized discs transmission signal isolator 166 is aligned with the transparent direction of that portion, the optical signal passes without obstruction. On the other hand, if the polarization direction of an optical signal passing through a portion of multiplexedtransmission signal isolator 166 is perpendicular to the transparent direction of that portion of multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160, the optical signal is completely absorbed and blocked from passage. InFIG. 5A , multiplexed transmission signal JM passes without significant absorption throughpolarized discs transmission signal isolator 166. In the other direction of propagation, however, as shown inFIG. 5B , multiplexed transmission signal JM is completely absorbed by secondpolarized disc 174 and firstpolarized disc 172. - Generally, transmitted signals in optical systems are polarized, and the wavelength intervals maintained between plural lasers in a single optical device are quite small. For example, in an LX4 optical transceiver system, the transmission wavelengths of four lasers, such as
lasers multiplexer 100 would be, respectively, 1275 nanometers, 1300 nanometers, 1325 nanometers, and 1350 nanometers. At these wavelength intervals, a single dual-stage free space isolator, such as multiplexedtransmission signal isolator 166, is sufficient to prevent the return from multiplexedsignal transmitting port 160 of any portion of a multiplexed transmission signal received thereby. -
FIGS. 6A and 6B are related diagrams that illustrate an aspect of spatial efficiency promoted by the teachings of the present invention.FIG. 6A depictsoptical transmission block 20 from knownoptical multiplexer 10 shown inFIG. 1 , as well as the pathways of transmitted signals L1-L4 and multiplexed transmission signal LM into, within, and out oftransmission block 20. By way of comparison,FIG. 6B depictsoptical transmission block 102 from inventiveoptical multiplexer 100 shown inFIG. 2 and includes the pathways of transmitted signals J132-J138 and multiplexed transmission signal JM into, within, and out oftransmission block 102. - As seen in
FIG. 6A , in knownmultiplexer 10, internal reflections of transmitted signals intransmission block 20 occur exclusively at transmission filters 71-74. Therefore, inmultiplexer 10, first transmitted signal L1 experiences only three reflections withintransmission block 20 and, following only four transits oftransmission block 20, emerges therefrom in optical alignment with the other transmitted signals L2-L4 as multiplexed transmission signal LM. - The spatial relationships among typical components in a known multiplexer, such as
multiplexer 10 ofFIG. 1 , ultimately determine the minimum width able to be used in the transmission block thereof. For example, the distance between adjacent lasers, such as lasers 11-14, is about 6.2 millimeters. Typically, a common angle of incidence α=13.5 degrees is maintained for the transmitted signal from each of those lasers with each of the associated transmission filters 71-74. Each of those transmitted signals then enterstransmission block 20 at an angle of refraction A1=9.3 degrees. Under these particular constraints,transmission block 20 will necessarily have a width W20=20 millimeters. Such a size intransmission block 20 can, however, become an impedance to reducing size in new optical devices, such as optical transceivers. - As seen in
FIG. 6B by contrast, ininventive multiplexer 100, internal reflections of transmitted signals intransmission block 102 occur not only attransmission filters first coating 112 and atsecond coating 114. Therefore, inmultiplexer 100, first transmitted signal J132 experiences twelve reflections withintransmission block 102, so that following thirteen transits oftransmission block 102, first transmitted signal J132 emerges fromtransmission block 102 in optical alignment with the other transmitted signals J134-J138 as multiplexed transmission signal JM. - The cumulative distance of travel of transmitted signals within
transmission block 102 is thus increased by several times relative to the cumulative distance of travel of transmitted signals withintransmission block 20 in knownmultiplexer 10. Correspondingly, width W102 oftransmission block 102 need be only a fraction of width W20 that is required intransmission block 20 of knownmultiplexer 10. Employing teachings of the present invention, it is possible to construct a multiplexer of reduced size having a transmission block, such astransmission block 102, having a width W102=10 millimeters only. This in turn nets further advantages not directly related to the optical device into whichtransmission block 102 might become incorporated. For example, a smaller die can be used to manufacture transmission blocks, such astransmission block 102, than are required to manufacture transmission blocks for known multiplexers. - According to another aspect of the present invention, an optical signal multiplexer, such as
multiplexer 100, can be made to include demultiplexing means cooperative with the transmission block thereof for separating a multiplexed reception signal into constituent received signals at respective distinct reception wavelengths. One embodiment of structures performing the function of a demultiplexing means according to teachings of the present invention is presented inFIG. 7 as ademultiplexer 200. -
Demultiplexer 200 is so configured as to be capable of separating a single multiplexed reception signal containing four received signals at respective distinct optical reception wavelengths into those constituent received signals for separate subsequent processing. In other embodiments of the present invention, a smaller or a larger number of such received signals may be included in a single multiplexed reception signal that is to be thusly deconstructed. - Centrally,
demultiplexer 200 includes anoptical transmission block 202 that may be similar in material composition, physical configuration, and method of manufacture to transmission block 102 ofmultiplexer 100 inFIG. 2 . Thustransmission block 202 has on afirst side 204 thereof a planarfirst surface 206 and on an opposedsecond side 208 thereof a planarsecond surface 210 that is parallel tofirst surface 206. As measured betweenfirst surface 206 andsecond surface 210,transmission block 202 has a width W202. -
Transmission block 202 is rendered internally and externally reflective of optical signals by highly reflective coatings on the faces thereof that may be similar in material composition, physical configuration, and method of manufacture tofirst coating 112 andsecond coating 114 ofmultiplexer 100 inFIG. 2 . Accordingly,transmission block 202 ofdemultiplexer 200 carries a highly reflectivefirst coating 212 onfirst surface 206 and a highly reflectivesecond coating 214 onsecond surface 210. - Formed through
second coating 214 at selected locations alongsecond surface 210 are a plurality of egress windows at whichsecond surface 210 oftransmission block 202 is neither internally nor externally reflective of optical signals. The plurality of egress windows depicted inFIG. 7 includes afirst egress window 222, asecond egress window 224, athird egress window 226, and afourth egress window 228. The egress windows ofdemultiplexer 200 may be similar in material composition, physical configuration, and method of manufacture to the admission windows ofmultiplexer 100 inFIG. 2 . The number of egress windows in a reflective coating, such assecond coating 214, will vary with and generally correspond at least to the number of received signals at distinct optical wavelengths that are to be separated from a multiplexed reception signal by a demultiplexer, such asdemultiplexer 200. Therefore, a smaller or a greater number of such egress windows may be required in other inventive demultiplexer embodiments. - Also included in
demultiplexer 200 is a plurality of optical detectors that are positioned on the same side oftransmission block 202, in the case illustrated inFIG. 7 onsecond side 208. Each of the detectors is tuned to recognize and to retransmitting received signals at a respective individual reception wavelength, wherefore a smaller or a larger number of detectors may be employed in other embodiments of the invention, depending on the number of received signals to be separated out of a single multiplexed reception signal. The reception axis of each of the detectors is desirable oriented at and substantially normal tosecond surface 210 oftransmission block 202. - The plurality of detectors shown in the embodiment of
FIG. 7 includes afirst detector 232, asecond detector 234, athird detector 236, and afourth detector 238.First detector 232 recognizes received signals K232 at a first reception wavelength λ232 and has a reception axis R232 that is oriented at and substantially normal tosecond surface 210 oftransmission block 202.Second detector 234 recognizes received signals K234 at a second reception wavelength λ234 and has a reception axis R234 that is also oriented at and substantially normal tosecond surface 210.Third detector 236 recognizes received signals K126 at a third reception wavelength λ236 and has a reception axis R236 that is oriented at and substantially normal tosecond surface 210. Finally,fourth detector 238 recognizes received signals K238 at a fourth reception wavelength λ238 and has a reception axis R238 that is in addition oriented at and substantially normal tosecond surface 210 oftransmission block 202. Appropriate detectors for use indemultiplexer 200 include PIN detectors and ADP detectors. - Each of the detectors shown in
FIG. 7 is associated with a corresponding one of the egress windows formed insecond coating 214 onsecond surface 210 oftransmission block 202. Thus,first egress window 222 is associated withfirst detector 232,second egress window 224 is associated withsecond detector 234,third egress window 226 is associated withthird detector 236, and finally,fourth egress window 228 is associated withfourth detector 238. - Located between each detector of
demultiplexer 200 and the egress window associated therewith are a pair of additional associated structures. - The first of these additional associated structures is an optical filter that is positioned on
second surface 210 oftransmission block 202 filling the associated egress window. Each such optical filter operates at the reception wavelength of the associated detector, thereby blocking from entry into or egress fromtransmission block 202 through the egress window in which it is located any signal other than received signals at the reception wavelength of the associated detector. From the interior oftransmission block 202, these reception filters function as mirrors, reflecting back toward the interior oftransmission block 202 any received signals at those other wavelengths that approachesfirst surface 206 orsecond surface 210 oftransmission block 202 from the interior thereof. - Thus, a
first reception filter 242 tuned to first reception wavelength λ232 is positioned infirst egress window 222.First reception filter 242 permits first received signals K232 to emerge fromtransmission block 202 atfirst egress window 222, but bars passage out oftransmission block 202 atfirst egress window 222 of received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at first reception wavelength λ232. In addition,first reception filter 242 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 202 received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at first reception wavelength λ232. - A
second reception filter 244 tuned to second reception wavelength λ234 is positioned insecond egress window 224.Second reception filter 244 permits second received signals K234 to emerge fromtransmission block 202 atsecond egress window 224, but bars passage out oftransmission block 202 atsecond egress window 224 of received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at second reception wavelength λ234. In addition,second reception filter 244 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 202 received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at second reception wavelength λ234. - A
third reception filter 246 tuned to third reception wavelength λ236 is positioned inthird egress window 226.Third reception filter 246 permits third received signals K236 to emerge fromtransmission block 202 atthird egress window 226, but bars passage out oftransmission block 202 atthird egress window 226 of received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at third reception wavelength λ236. In addition,third reception filter 246 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 202 received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at third reception wavelength λ236. - Finally, a
fourth reception filter 248 tuned to fourth reception wavelength λ238 is positioned infourth egress window 228.Fourth reception filter 248 permits fourth received signals K238 to emerge fromtransmission block 202 atfourth egress window 228, but bars passage out oftransmission block 202 atfourth egress window 228 of received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at fourth reception wavelength λ238. In addition,fourth reception filter 248 reflects back toward the interior oftransmission block 202 received signals and components of received signals at any wavelength other than at fourth reception wavelength λ238. - The second additional associated structure located between each detector of
multiplexer 200 and the egress window associated therewith is a lens that is positioned in close proximity to the input side of each detector in alignment with the reception axis thereof. Each lens is capable of reorienting received signals from the reception filter positioned in the associated egress window through an acute angle into alignment with the reception axis of the associated detector and along a redirected reception pathway to detector. - Thus, as seen in
FIG. 7 , afirst lens 252 is associated withfirst detector 232 and positioned at the input side offirst detector 232 betweenfirst detector 232 andfirst reception filter 242 infirst egress window 222. Asecond lens 254 associated withsecond detector 234 is positioned between the input side ofsecond detector 234 andsecond reception filter 244 insecond egress window 224. Similarly, associated withthird detector 236 is athird lens 256 that is positioned between the input side ofthird detector 236 andthird reception filter 246 inthird egress window 226. Finally, associated withfourth detector 238 is afourth lens 248 that is positioned between the input side offourth detector 238 andfourth reception filter 248 infourth egress window 228. -
Demultiplexer 200 also includes a multiplexedsignal receiving port 260 that is disposed onfirst side 204 oftransmission block 202. Multiplexedsignal receiving port 260 is positioned to direct a multiplexed reception signal RM intotransmission block 202 at a multiplexed receptionsignal admission window 262 insecond coating 214. Thereupon, multiplexed reception signal KM is separated into the constituent received signals thereof by being reflected withintransmission block 202 between thefirst coating 112 andsecond coating 114 toward the detectors ofdemultiplexer 200. -
Demultiplexer 200 further includes aprism 264 positioned between multiplexed receptionsignal admission window 262 and multiplexedsignal receiving port 260.Prism 264 is capable of bending the path of multiplexed reception signal KM out of optical alignment with the optical transmitting axis T260 of multiplexedsignal receiving port 260 and intotransmission block 202 at multiplexed receptionsignal admission window 262. Advantageously then, transmitting axis T260 of multiplexedsignal receiving port 260 can be made to be parallel tofirst surface 206 oftransmission block 202. This harmonizes the functional axis of multiplexedsignal receiving port 260 with axes otherwise standard in industry, facilitating easy coupling and replacement of a demultiplexer, such asdemultiplexer 200, as a modular component among others in a complex optical system. - A multiplexed reception signal KM transmitted from multiplexed
signal receiving port 260 includes by way of example, first received signal K232 at first reception wavelength λ232, second received signal K234 at second reception wavelength λ234, third received signal K126 at third reception wavelength λ236, and fourth received signal K238 at fourth reception wavelength λ238. The received signals contained in multiplexed reception signal KM remained optically aligned during repeated internal reflections of multiplexed reception signal KM withintransmission block 202 betweenfirst side 204 andsecond side 208 thereof. - The series of reflections progresses the received signals within
transmission block 102 away from multiplexedsignal receiving port 260 in a direction parallel tofirst side 204 andsecond side 208. As these internal reflections bring the constituents of multiplexed reception signal KM in turn to each of the reception filters onfirst side 204 oftransmission block 202, the constituent received signal at the optical wavelength passed by that particular reception filter emerges fromtransmission block 202 and is directed to the associated detector for retransmission. The remaining constituent received signals from multiplexed reception signal KM continue internal reflections intransmission block 202 away from multiplexedsignal receiving port 260. When the next reception filter is reached, another constituent received signal is separated from the group. The process continues until each received signals have been separated from all others. - In achieving this result, first received signal K232 engages in the shortest path of travel interior of
transmission block 202. First received signal K232 enterstransmission block 202 at multiplexed receptionsignal admission window 262 with the other constituent received signals in multiplexed reception signal KM and makes but a single transit oftransmission block 202 tofirst reception filter 242 infirst egress window 222. There, first received signal K232 emerges fromtransmission block 202, as first reception wavelength λ232 thereof is the optical wavelength that is able to pass throughfirst reception filter 242. - Second received signal K234, third received signal K126, and fourth received signal K238 are, however, reflected back toward
first surface 206 oftransmission block 202 byfirst reception filter 242. Following a first reflection atfirst surface 206, a second reflection atsecond surface 210, and finally yet a third reflection atfirst surface 206 again, this group of remaining constituent received signals reachsecond reception filter 244 insecond egress window 224. There second received signal K234 emerges fromtransmission block 202, as second reception wavelength λ234 thereof is the optical wavelength that is able to pass throughsecond reception filter 244. - Third received signal K126, and fourth received signal K238 are, however, reflected back toward
first surface 206 oftransmission block 202 bysecond reception filter 244. Following a first reflection atfirst surface 206, a second reflection atsecond surface 210, and finally yet a third reflection atfirst surface 206 again, this group of remaining constituent received signals reachthird reception filter 246 inthird egress window 226. There, third received signal K236 emerges fromtransmission block 202, as third reception wavelength λ236 thereof is the optical wavelength that is able to pass throughthird reception filter 246. - Fourth received signal K238 is, however, reflected back toward
first surface 206 oftransmission block 202 bythird reception filter 246. Following a first reflection atfirst surface 206, a second reflection atsecond surface 210, and finally yet a third reflection atfirst surface 206 again, this remaining constituent received signal reachesfourth reception filter 248 infourth egress window 228. There, fourth received signal K238 emerges fromtransmission block 202, as fourth reception wavelength λ238 thereof is the optical wavelength that is able to pass throughfourth reception filter 248. - Selected portions of
demultiplexer 200 will be addressed in further detail relative to the enlarged depictions presented inFIGS. 8 and 9 . -
FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic depiction of a typical detector and the set of lens, reception filter, and egress aperture associated therewith indemultiplexer 200. There,first detector 232 is shown andfirst egress window 222 that is associated therewith. Betweenfirst detector 232 andfirst egress window 222, the associatedfirst reception filter 242 andfirst lens 252 also appear.First detector 232 recognizes received signals K232 at first reception wavelength λ232. Received signal K232 must, however, be directed to the input side offirst detector 232 in alignment with reception axis R232 offirst reception filter 242. -
First lens 252 is optically aligned with reception axis R232 offirst detector 232 at a focal length F252 away from the input side offirst detector 232. Focal length F252 is determined by the nature offirst detector 232 and other performance criteria intended fordemultiplexer 200. It is the function offirst lens 252 to reorient received signal K232 fromfirst reception filter 242 through an acute tilt angle μ252 into alignment with reception axis R232 offirst detector 232. The distance between first detector's axis R232 and first lens'optical axis 251 determines the tilted angle μ252 of beam K232. Then received signal K232 can enterfirst detector 232 to be recognized and retransmitted thereby. - Tilt angle μ252 of the beam K232 is set equal to the angle of incidence in air for
first reception filter 242. Reorienting the pathway for first received signals K232 in this manner permits the desirable result of being able to positionfirst detector 232 with reception axis R232 oriented at and substantially normal tosecond surface 210 oftransmission block 202. This harmonizes the functional axis offirst detector 232 with axes otherwise standard in industry, facilitating easy coupling and replacement of a demultiplexer, such asdemultiplexer 200, as a modular component among others in a complex optical system. -
FIG. 9 depictsprism 264 attached tofirst surface 206 oftransmission block 202 indemultiplexer 200.Prism 264 may be similar in material composition, physical configuration, method of manufacture, and manner of attachment toprism 164 ofmultiplexer 100 inFIG. 2 .Prism 264 has alongest face 268 that is perpendicular tofirst surface 206 oftransmission block 202 and aninclined face 270 that forms a dihedral incline angle δ270 withlongest face 268. - Multiplexed reception signal KM emerges from multiplexed
signal receiving port 260 along transmitting axis T260 and entersprism 164 throughlongest face 268 thereof. Incline angle δ170 is calculated to permitprism 264 to bend the path of multiplexed reception signal KM out of alignment with transmitting axis T260 and intotransmission block 202 through the face ofprism 164 that is attached thereto. Optimally, incline angle 270 is so established that transmitting axis T260 of multiplexedsignal receiving port 260 and the initial path of multiplexed reception signal KM can be parallel tofirst surface 206 oftransmission block 202. This harmonizes the functional axis of multiplexedsignal receiving port 260 with axes otherwise standard in industry, facilitating easy coupling and replacement of a demultiplexer, such asdemultiplexer 200, as a modular component among others in a complex optical system. In one embodiment of the inventive technology, it has been found to facilitate this objective if incline angle δ270=49.6±0.1 degrees. - The longitudinal positioning of
prism 264 alongfirst surface 206 oftransmission block 202 at multiplexed receptionsignal admission window 262 can be used to determine the separation distance E fromfirst surface 206 of the path along which multiplexed reception signal KM initially travels to reachprism 264. This in turn is equivalent to determining how far away fromfirst surface 206 it is necessary to position transmitting axis T260, and in turn how to dispose multiplexedsignal receiving port 260 relative to the other elements ofdemultiplexer 200. Altering the location ofprism 264 in the manner suggested by two-sided arrow S inFIG. 9 will correspondingly vary separation distance E of multiplexed reception signal KM fromfirst surface 206. Shiftingprism 264 in the direction indicated by the left side of arrow S will reduce separation distance E, while shiftingprism 264 in the direction indicated by the right side of arrow S will increase separation distance E. - For similar reasoning as that presented relative to the comparison conducted using
FIGS. 6A and 6B , the teachings of the present invention enable transmission block 202 ofdemultiplexer 200 to have a width W202 that is substantially reduced in width. The increased number of internal reflections of signals attainable in a transmission block, such astransmission block 202, advantageously enables width W202 thereof to be as small as 10 millimeters. Therefrom corresponding economies of size reduction can be attained in all related optical devices and manufacturing methodologies. - According to yet another aspect of the present invention, an optical signal demultiplexer, such as
demultiplexer 200, can be made to include multiplexing means cooperative with the transmission block thereof for combining transmitted signals at respective transmission wavelengths into a single multiplexed transmission signal. One embodiment of structures performing the function of a multiplexing means according to teachings of the present invention has been presented inFIG. 2 as amultiplexer 100. - A single optical device both the functions of
multiplexer 100 ofFIG. 2 and the functions ofdemultiplexer 200 ofFIG. 7 is shown by way of completeness inFIG. 10 as a multiplexer-demultiplexer 300. InFIG. 10 , any reference character that is identical to a reference character used inFIG. 2 or 7 is intended to identify an element that is structurally and functionally identical among the figures in which that same reference character appears. - Centrally, multiplexer-
demultiplexer 300 includes anoptical transmission block 302 that may be similar in material composition, physical configuration, and method of manufacture to either or both oftransmission block 102 ofmultiplexer 100 inFIG. 2 ortransmission block 202 ofdemultiplexer 200 inFIG. 7 . Thustransmission block 302 has on afirst side 304 thereof a planarfirst surface 306 and on an opposedsecond side 308 thereof a planarsecond surface 310 that is parallel tofirst surface 306. As measured betweenfirst surface 306 andsecond surface 10,transmission block 302 has a width W302. -
Transmission block 302 carries a highly reflectivefirst coating 312 onfirst surface 306 and a highly reflectivesecond coating 314 onsecond surface 310. Formed throughfirst coating 312 at selected locations alongfirst surface 306 are a plurality of admission windows at whichfirst surface 306 oftransmission block 302 is neither internally nor externally reflective of optical signals. Formed throughsecond coating 314 at selected locations alongsecond surface 310 are a plurality of egress windows at whichsecond surface 310 oftransmission block 302 is neither internally nor externally reflective of optical signals. For simplicity, these admission windows and egress windows are not labeled inFIG. 10 . - Multiplexer-
demultiplexer 300 is so configured as to be capable, through teachings of the present invention presented relative tomultiplexer 100 anddemultiplexer 200, of combining four transmitted signals at respective distinct optical transmission wavelengths in to a single multiplexed transmission signal, and of separating a single multiplexed reception signal containing four received signals at respective distinct optical reception wavelengths into those constituent received signals. One or more of the distinct optical transmission wavelengths may be identical to a corresponding one of the distinct optical reception wavelengths. In other embodiments of the present invention, a smaller or a larger number of transmitted signals or received signals may be effectively manipulated by a multiplexer-demultiplexer, such as multiplexer-demultiplexer 300, and the number of transmitted and received may or may not be identical in any given inventive embodiment thereof without departing from the teachings of the present invention. - For similar reasoning as that presented relative to the comparison conducted using
FIGS. 6A and 6B , the teachings of the present invention enable transmission block 302 of multiplexer-demultiplexer 300 to have a width W302 that is substantially reduced in width. The increased number of internal reflections of signals attainable in a transmission block, such astransmission block 302, advantageously enables width W302 thereof to be as small as 10 millimeters. - The present invention also contemplates a method for processing a plurality of optical signals at a corresponding plurality of respective individual wavelengths. That method includes the step of covering opposed parallel first and second planar surfaces on respective first and second sides of an optical signal transmission block with highly reflective first and second coatings. A plurality of lasers capable of producing transmitted signals at distinct transmission wavelengths are positioned on the first side of the transmission block with the transmission axis of each of the lasers oriented at and substantially normal to the first surface of the transmission block. Transmitted signals from the lasers are reorienting into the transmission block through the first surface thereof along parallel paths at an acute tilt angle to the transmission axis of each respective laser. The transmitted signals are then reflected within the transmission block between the first and second coatings in a direction that is parallel to the first and second surfaces and away from the lasers. Following these reflections, the transmitted signals emerge in mutual optical alignment from the second surface of the transmission block as a multiplexed transmission signal, which is received in a signal transmission port on the second side of the transmission block.
- The method may also includes the steps of orienting the receiving axis of the transmission port parallel to the second surface of the transmission block, and bending the path of the multiplexed transmission signal into optical alignment with the receiving axis of the transmitting port. Additionally, a plurality of admission windows are formed through the first coating corresponding in one-to-one relation to the plurality of lasers, and signals passing through each of the admission windows are filtered to the transmission wavelength of the transmitted signals produced by the laser corresponding thereto. A multiplex signal egress window is formed in the second coating.
- According to another aspect of the present invention, a method as described above also includes the steps of delivering into the transmissions block through the first surface thereof a multiplexed reception signal containing a plurality of received signals at respective reception wavelengths, and positioning a plurality of optical detectors capable of detecting received signals at a respective reception wavelength on the second side of the transmission block with the receiving axis of each of the detectors oriented at and substantially normal to the second surface of the transmission block. The received signals delivered into the transmission block are reflecting within the transmission block between the first and second coatings in a direction that is parallel to the first and second surfaces and toward the detectors. Following these reflections, the received signals emerge from the second surface of the transmission block and are reoriented into alignment with the receiving axis of each of the detectors.
- The step of delivering comprises the steps of positioning a multiplexed signal receiving port on the first side of the transmission block with the transmission axis of the receiving port oriented parallel to the first surface of the transmission block, transmitting the multiplexed reception signal from the receiving port, and bending the path of the multiplexed transmission signal from the transmission axis of the receiving port into a non-perpendicular angle of incidence with the first surface of the transmission block.
- The method also involves the steps of forming a plurality of egress windows through the second coating corresponding in one-to-one relation to the plurality of detectors, and forming a multiplex signal access window in the first coating. Each of the detectors is tuned to the reception wavelength corresponding thereto, and the step of doing so includes the step of filtering to a respective individual reception wavelength received signals emerging from the transmission block at each egress window.
- The foregoing description of the invention has been described for purposes of clarity and understanding. It is not intended to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Various modifications may be possible within the scope and equivalence of the appended claims.
Claims (42)
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US9250355B2 (en) | 2011-04-06 | 2016-02-02 | Futurwei Technologies, Inc. | Device and method for optical beam combination |
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US10203455B2 (en) * | 2016-12-13 | 2019-02-12 | Source Photonics (Chengdu) Co., Ltd. | Multi-channel optical transmitter and methods of making and using the same |
US20190113687A1 (en) * | 2017-10-12 | 2019-04-18 | Luxtera, Inc. | Method And System For Near Normal Incidence MUX/DEMUX Designs |
JP2019109380A (en) * | 2017-12-19 | 2019-07-04 | 日本オクラロ株式会社 | Optical multiplexer, optical subassembly, and optical module |
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US9250355B2 (en) | 2011-04-06 | 2016-02-02 | Futurwei Technologies, Inc. | Device and method for optical beam combination |
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JP2019109380A (en) * | 2017-12-19 | 2019-07-04 | 日本オクラロ株式会社 | Optical multiplexer, optical subassembly, and optical module |
JP7241461B2 (en) | 2017-12-19 | 2023-03-17 | 日本ルメンタム株式会社 | Optical multiplexer/demultiplexer, optical subassembly and optical module |
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