US20020196817A1 - Tunable laser - Google Patents
Tunable laser Download PDFInfo
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- US20020196817A1 US20020196817A1 US10/102,208 US10220802A US2002196817A1 US 20020196817 A1 US20020196817 A1 US 20020196817A1 US 10220802 A US10220802 A US 10220802A US 2002196817 A1 US2002196817 A1 US 2002196817A1
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- tunable laser
- laser system
- mirror
- compliant
- tunable
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B26/00—Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements
- G02B26/08—Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
- G02B26/0816—Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light by means of one or more reflecting elements
- G02B26/0833—Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light by means of one or more reflecting elements the reflecting element being a micromechanical device, e.g. a MEMS mirror, DMD
- G02B26/0841—Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light by means of one or more reflecting elements the reflecting element being a micromechanical device, e.g. a MEMS mirror, DMD the reflecting element being moved or deformed by electrostatic means
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B81—MICROSTRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGY
- B81B—MICROSTRUCTURAL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS, e.g. MICROMECHANICAL DEVICES
- B81B3/00—Devices comprising flexible or deformable elements, e.g. comprising elastic tongues or membranes
- B81B3/0018—Structures acting upon the moving or flexible element for transforming energy into mechanical movement or vice versa, i.e. actuators, sensors, generators
- B81B3/0021—Transducers for transforming electrical into mechanical energy or vice versa
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B26/00—Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements
- G02B26/001—Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements based on interference in an adjustable optical cavity
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B26/00—Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements
- G02B26/02—Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the intensity of light
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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
- G02B6/35—Optical coupling means having switching means
- G02B6/3564—Mechanical details of the actuation mechanism associated with the moving element or mounting mechanism details
- G02B6/3568—Mechanical details of the actuation mechanism associated with the moving element or mounting mechanism details characterised by the actuating force
- G02B6/357—Electrostatic force
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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
- G02B6/35—Optical coupling means having switching means
- G02B6/3564—Mechanical details of the actuation mechanism associated with the moving element or mounting mechanism details
- G02B6/3584—Mechanical details of the actuation mechanism associated with the moving element or mounting mechanism details constructional details of an associated actuator having a MEMS construction, i.e. constructed using semiconductor technology such as etching
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B81—MICROSTRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGY
- B81B—MICROSTRUCTURAL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS, e.g. MICROMECHANICAL DEVICES
- B81B2201/00—Specific applications of microelectromechanical systems
- B81B2201/04—Optical MEMS
- B81B2201/047—Optical MEMS not provided for in B81B2201/042 - B81B2201/045
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B81—MICROSTRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGY
- B81B—MICROSTRUCTURAL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS, e.g. MICROMECHANICAL DEVICES
- B81B2203/00—Basic microelectromechanical structures
- B81B2203/05—Type of movement
- B81B2203/053—Translation according to an axis perpendicular to the substrate
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B81—MICROSTRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGY
- B81B—MICROSTRUCTURAL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS, e.g. MICROMECHANICAL DEVICES
- B81B2203/00—Basic microelectromechanical structures
- B81B2203/05—Type of movement
- B81B2203/058—Rotation out of a plane parallel to the substrate
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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
- G02B6/10—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings of the optical waveguide type
- G02B6/12—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings of the optical waveguide type of the integrated circuit kind
- G02B2006/12083—Constructional arrangements
- G02B2006/12104—Mirror; Reflectors or the like
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- 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
- G02B6/35—Optical coupling means having switching means
- G02B6/351—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements
- G02B6/3512—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements the optical element being reflective, e.g. mirror
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- 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
- G02B6/35—Optical coupling means having switching means
- G02B6/351—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements
- G02B6/3522—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements the optical element enabling or impairing total internal reflection
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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
- G02B6/35—Optical coupling means having switching means
- G02B6/351—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements
- G02B6/3524—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements the optical element being refractive
- G02B6/3526—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements the optical element being refractive the optical element being a lens
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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
- G02B6/35—Optical coupling means having switching means
- G02B6/351—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements
- G02B6/3524—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements the optical element being refractive
- G02B6/3528—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements the optical element being refractive the optical element being a prism
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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
- G02B6/35—Optical coupling means having switching means
- G02B6/351—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements
- G02B6/3534—Optical coupling means having switching means involving stationary waveguides with moving interposed optical elements the optical element being diffractive, i.e. a grating
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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
- G02B6/35—Optical coupling means having switching means
- G02B6/3564—Mechanical details of the actuation mechanism associated with the moving element or mounting mechanism details
- G02B6/3568—Mechanical details of the actuation mechanism associated with the moving element or mounting mechanism details characterised by the actuating force
- G02B6/3572—Magnetic force
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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
- G02B6/35—Optical coupling means having switching means
- G02B6/3564—Mechanical details of the actuation mechanism associated with the moving element or mounting mechanism details
- G02B6/3568—Mechanical details of the actuation mechanism associated with the moving element or mounting mechanism details characterised by the actuating force
- G02B6/3574—Mechanical force, e.g. pressure variations
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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
- G02B6/35—Optical coupling means having switching means
- G02B6/3564—Mechanical details of the actuation mechanism associated with the moving element or mounting mechanism details
- G02B6/358—Latching of the moving element, i.e. maintaining or holding the moving element in place once operation has been performed; includes a mechanically bistable system
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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
- G02B6/4219—Mechanical fixtures for holding or positioning the elements relative to each other in the couplings; Alignment methods for the elements, e.g. measuring or observing methods especially used therefor
- G02B6/422—Active alignment, i.e. moving the elements in response to the detected degree of coupling or position of the elements
- G02B6/4226—Positioning means for moving the elements into alignment, e.g. alignment screws, deformation of the mount
Definitions
- the invention relates to a tunable laser.
- An object of the invention is to solve at least the above problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described hereinafter.
- the invention relates to a tunable laser. More particularly, the invention relates to a tunable laser employing a compliant mechanism that provides precise angular and longitudinal control and reconfiguration.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a compliant mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention
- FIGS. 1A and 1B show a plan view of exemplary electrodes of a compliant mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention
- FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a compliant mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention, showing the island of the compliant mechanism in a tilted configuration;
- FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system according to an additional embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system according to still another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram detailing laser operation with respect to the invention.
- FIG. 8 is an explanatory chart comparing features of embodiments of the present invention to current laser technologies.
- High-power tunable lasers have been developed which package tunable mirrors with edge-emitting lasers.
- these known designs are complex, fragile, and expensive.
- the tunable laser according to the invention combines an off-the-shelf, edge-emitting laser with a compliant mechanism, as discussed below, producing a variable wavelength, robust high-power laser.
- the optical spectrum of a laser depends on the particular characteristics of the optical cavity of the laser.
- An optical wave propagating through the laser cavity forms a standing wave between two mirror facets of the laser. This standing wave resonates only when the cavity length L is an integer number M of half wavelengths existing between the two mirrors.
- the standing wave resonates, laser light is emitted at the resonant wavelength.
- the present invention varies the cavity length L of a laser cavity of a laser using a compliant mechanism, thereby varying the wavelength of the light emitted by the laser.
- FIGS. 3, 4, 5 , and 7 each show a tunable laser system employing a compliant mechanism, according to embodiments of the invention.
- each embodiment employs a compliant mechanism.
- a compliant mechanism is described in co-pending parent U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/085,143 (Attorney Docket No. SMT-0039) filed Mar. 1, 2002, entitled “Compliant Mechanism and Method of Forming Same”, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
- Any of the embodiments disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/085,143 can be employed to realize the apparatus and methods according to the invention discussed herein.
- FIG. 1 also shows a compliant mechanism 10 employable in the tunable lasers, according to the invention.
- a complaint support 20 supports an optical component, such as mirror 25 .
- the compliant support 20 is formed of a frame 20 B, an island 20 A, and a compliant member 50 , which attaches the island 20 A to the frame 20 B, and provides flexibility therebetween.
- the mirror 25 which is affixed to the island 20 A of the compliant support 20 , is movable via an actuator 60 , which will be further discussed hereafter.
- the frame 20 B and the island 20 A of the compliant support 20 are preferably formed of a generally inflexible material, preferably a material that is compatible with micro-electro-mechanical systems fabrication processes, such as silicon. However, other materials, generally or partially flexible, may also be appropriate.
- the compliant member 50 is formed of a flexible material, preferably a highly compliant polymeric material, such as an elastomer. However, other materials may also be appropriate.
- the actuator 60 can be controlled to apply a force to the island 20 A, thereby moving the island 20 A, for example, as shown in FIG. 2.
- the compliant member 50 exerts a restoring force to the island 20 A, which tends to urge the island 20 A back into alignment with the frame 20 B when the actuating force is removed.
- the actuator 60 functions to move at least the island 20 A, and can include any number and configuration of magnetic, electrostatic, or mechanical force transducers.
- the actuator 60 includes a first set 40 of electrodes 40 A positioned on a surface 21 A of the island 20 A opposite to a surface 21 B on which the mirror 25 is positioned.
- an anti-reflection (AR) coating 45 is provided between the surface 21 A of the island portion 20 A and the electrodes 40 A.
- the actuator 60 further includes a common electrode 35 A positioned on a surface 31 A of an actuator support 30 , according to an embodiment of the invention.
- the actuator support 30 may include a hole 325 for passing source light to the mirror 25 .
- the actuator support 30 is preferably formed of a generally inflexible material, preferably a material that is compatible with micro-electro-mechanical systems fabrication processes, such as silicon. However, other materials, generally or partially flexible, may also be appropriate.
- the complaint support 20 and the actuator support 30 together form compliant mechanism 10 , which is described in detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/085,143 (Attorney Docket No. SMT-0039).
- FIGS. 1A and 1B show a plan view of the electrodes 40 A and 35 A.
- three electrodes 40 A are provided on the compliant support 20 and one common electrode 35 A is provided on the actuator support 30 .
- this arrangement could be reversed. Further, a variety of other configurations of electrodes which cooperatively function together could be utilized.
- the electrodes 40 A, 35 A are configured to generate an electrostatic force when a command signal is applied thereto.
- the command signal can be configured to create a repulsive or an attractive electrostatic force between the electrodes.
- FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system 100 , according to an embodiment of the invention.
- the tunable laser system 100 includes a tunable laser 101 formed of a compliant mechanism 110 , and a laser 115 , for example, a semiconductor laser, preferably mounted on a heat sink 120 .
- the laser 115 includes an active region 135 , and a high-reflectivity (HR) coating 145 , at one side thereof.
- HR high-reflectivity
- Mirror 125 is mounted on the island 111 of the compliant mechanism 110 .
- Mirror 125 , active region 135 , and HR coating 145 together form a (first) laser cavity, with mirror 125 functioning as the output mirror of the laser cavity.
- a lens 130 is preferably positioned between the laser 115 and mirror 125 to collimate the light from the laser 115 .
- the tunable laser system 100 may include an output optical fiber 150 configured to receive light output by the tunable laser 101 . Additionally, the tunable laser system 100 may include a lens 140 , which functions to focus output light into the output optical fiber 150 .
- Element 132 on the island 111 may be an anti-reflective coating.
- element 132 may be a partially reflective coating.
- partially reflective coating 132 along with active region 135 and HR coating 145 form a second laser cavity, while partially reflective coating 132 and mirror 125 form a third laser cavity.
- the precise resonant wavelengths of the first and second cavities can be adjusted by tuning the position of the island 111 , which tunes the position of both the mirror 125 and the partially reflective coating 132 , respectively, similar to the embodiment of FIG. 6 discussed below. Because the mirror 125 and the partially reflective coating 132 move together as the position of the island 111 is tuned, the resonant wavelength of the third laser cavity, formed by mirror 125 and partially reflective coating 132 , remains substantially constant.
- FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system 200 , according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the tunable laser system 200 of FIG. 4 is similar to the tunable laser system of FIG. 3. Similar reference numerals have been utilized to refer to similar elements, and repetitive discussion has been omitted.
- the tunable laser system 200 includes a tunable laser 201 .
- the tunable laser 201 employs a compliant mechanism 210 , and includes a laser 215 , for example, a semiconductor laser, preferably mounted on a heat sink 220 .
- the laser 215 includes an active region 235 , and a mirror 245 at one end.
- the compliant mechanism 210 supports an HR mirror 225 which, together with the active region 235 and mirror 245 , forms a laser cavity. By adjusting the position of the HR mirror 225 , a length of the laser cavity can be varied, thereby varying the wavelength of light output by the tunable laser 201 .
- a lens 230 is preferably positioned between the laser 215 and mirror 225 to collimate the light from the laser 215 .
- the tunable laser system 200 may include a lens 240 , which functions to focus output light into an (optional) output optical fiber 250 .
- FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system 300 according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the tunable laser system 300 is similar to the tunable laser systems of FIGS. 3 and 4. Similar reference numerals have been utilized to refer to similar elements, and repetitive discussion has been omitted.
- the tunable laser system 300 of FIG. 5 includes a tunable laser 301 comprised of a laser 315 , for example, a semiconductor laser, used in combination with a compliant mechanism 310 .
- the compliant mechanism of this embodiment differs from the compliant mechanism of previously discussed embodiments in that the shape of HR mirror 325 supported on the compliant mechanism 310 is adjusted to provide a desired spatial mode of the laser light 305 output by the tunable laser 301 .
- the HR mirror 325 is curved to provide a desired spatial mode of the output laser light 325 for coupling to an output optical fiber 350 .
- the curvature of the HR mirror 325 eliminates the need for a focusing lens. That is, the curved mirror functions to focus the light.
- FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system 400 , according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the tunable laser system 400 of FIG. 6 is similar to the tunable laser systems of FIGS. 3 - 5 . Similar reference numerals have been utilized to refer to similar elements, and repetitive discussion has been omitted.
- the tunable laser system 400 of FIG. 6 includes a tunable laser 401 , for example, a semiconductor laser, which utilizes two compliant mechanism 410 A and 410 B.
- Laser 415 preferably provided on a heat sink 420 , is positioned between the complaint mechanism 410 A and 410 B.
- the laser system depicted in FIG. 6 is a double resonant cavity design. One resonant cavity is formed by the gap between mirror 425 B and coating 446 . Because the length of the cavity is relatively short, the mode resonances are relatively widely spaced as shown in FIG. 7( b ). The precise resonant wavelengths of this cavity are adjusted by tuning the position of mirror 425 B.
- the second cavity is formed by the gap between coating 446 and mirror 425 A.
- This cavity being longer, has more closely spaced resonant modes, as indicated in FIG. 7( c ).
- the precise resonant wavelength of this cavity is tuned by adjusting the position of mirror 425 A.
- the gain profile of the laser's active output is determined by the superposition of the spectra of the two resonant cavities with the gain profile as shown in FIG. 7( d ). If the length of the second cavity is adjusted such that the resonant wavelengths are equal to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) grid, then the laser is only capable of outputting at those wavelengths.
- the length of the first resonant cavity is adjusted to select which one of the ITU wavelengths will rise above the gain threshold of the active medium.
- ITU International Telecommunication Union
- the tunable laser system 400 of FIG. 7 may further include a lens 440 , which functions to focus light output by the tunable laser 401 into an output optical fiber 450 .
- FIG. 8 is a chart comparing the present invention to current laser technologies.
- the tunable laser of the present invention provides a tuning range of approximately 40 mm, as well as a power level of greater than approximately 25 mw.
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- Spectroscopy & Molecular Physics (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
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Abstract
A tunable laser system is provided which includes a tunable laser. The tunable laser combines a laser with a compliant mechanism.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/085,143 (Attorney Docket No. SMT-0039) filed Mar. 1, 2002, entitled “Compliant Mechanism and Method of Forming Same”, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The invention relates to a tunable laser.
- 2. Background of the Related Art
- There is a continuing need for tunable optical components for various applications, such as optical networking, wavelength-division-multiplexing and other telecommunications applications. In particular, numerous companies are developing tunable lasers for use in such applications.
- Existing technologies for tunable optical components are either too costly, unreliable, or do not exhibit the performance needs for present and/or future systems requirements.
- The above references are incorporated by reference herein where appropriate for appropriate teachings of additional or alternative details, features and/or technical background.
- An object of the invention is to solve at least the above problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described hereinafter.
- The invention relates to a tunable laser. More particularly, the invention relates to a tunable laser employing a compliant mechanism that provides precise angular and longitudinal control and reconfiguration.
- Additional advantages, objects, and features of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows and in part will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following or may be learned from practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and attained as particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
- Additional advantages, objects, and features of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows and in part will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following or may be learned from practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and attained as particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
- The invention will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements wherein:
- FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a compliant mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention;
- FIGS. 1A and 1B show a plan view of exemplary electrodes of a compliant mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a compliant mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention, showing the island of the compliant mechanism in a tilted configuration;
- FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system according to an embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system according to another embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system according to an additional embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of a tunable laser system according to still another embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram detailing laser operation with respect to the invention; and
- FIG. 8 is an explanatory chart comparing features of embodiments of the present invention to current laser technologies.
- Most tuneable lasers available today function at power levels of approximately 1 to 2 milliwatts (mW). However, what is needed for most telecom applications is a high-power tuneable laser, more particularly, a tunable laser that can function at power levels of 20 to 50 mW. The most popular tunable lasers are fabricated with vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), which are intrinsically low-power. Only edge-emitting laser technology is capable of the high powers necessary for most telecom applications. However, traditional edge-emitting lasers are fixed wavelength devices. They can be made tunable by adding external components. However, known external tuning devices are too expensive, too fragile, or lack other desired performance characteristics.
- High-power tunable lasers have been developed which package tunable mirrors with edge-emitting lasers. However, these known designs are complex, fragile, and expensive. The tunable laser according to the invention combines an off-the-shelf, edge-emitting laser with a compliant mechanism, as discussed below, producing a variable wavelength, robust high-power laser.
- The optical spectrum of a laser depends on the particular characteristics of the optical cavity of the laser. An optical wave propagating through the laser cavity forms a standing wave between two mirror facets of the laser. This standing wave resonates only when the cavity length L is an integer number M of half wavelengths existing between the two mirrors. When the standing wave resonates, laser light is emitted at the resonant wavelength. The present invention varies the cavity length L of a laser cavity of a laser using a compliant mechanism, thereby varying the wavelength of the light emitted by the laser.
- FIGS. 3, 4,5, and 7 each show a tunable laser system employing a compliant mechanism, according to embodiments of the invention. Each of these embodiments will be discussed below in turn. As stated, each embodiment employs a compliant mechanism. A compliant mechanism is described in co-pending parent U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/085,143 (Attorney Docket No. SMT-0039) filed Mar. 1, 2002, entitled “Compliant Mechanism and Method of Forming Same”, which is hereby incorporated by reference. Any of the embodiments disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/085,143 (Attorney Docket No. SMT-0039) can be employed to realize the apparatus and methods according to the invention discussed herein.
- FIG. 1 also shows a
compliant mechanism 10 employable in the tunable lasers, according to the invention. In thecompliant mechanism 10 of FIG. 1, a complaint support 20 supports an optical component, such asmirror 25. Thecompliant support 20 is formed of a frame 20B, anisland 20A, and acompliant member 50, which attaches theisland 20A to the frame 20B, and provides flexibility therebetween. Themirror 25, which is affixed to theisland 20A of thecompliant support 20, is movable via anactuator 60, which will be further discussed hereafter. - The frame20B and the
island 20A of thecompliant support 20 are preferably formed of a generally inflexible material, preferably a material that is compatible with micro-electro-mechanical systems fabrication processes, such as silicon. However, other materials, generally or partially flexible, may also be appropriate. Thecompliant member 50 is formed of a flexible material, preferably a highly compliant polymeric material, such as an elastomer. However, other materials may also be appropriate. - In operation, the
actuator 60 can be controlled to apply a force to theisland 20A, thereby moving theisland 20A, for example, as shown in FIG. 2. Thecompliant member 50 exerts a restoring force to theisland 20A, which tends to urge theisland 20A back into alignment with the frame 20B when the actuating force is removed. The actuator 60 functions to move at least theisland 20A, and can include any number and configuration of magnetic, electrostatic, or mechanical force transducers. - In a preferred embodiment, the
actuator 60 includes afirst set 40 ofelectrodes 40A positioned on asurface 21A of theisland 20A opposite to a surface 21B on which themirror 25 is positioned. In one preferred embodiment, an anti-reflection (AR) coating 45 is provided between thesurface 21A of theisland portion 20A and theelectrodes 40A. - The
actuator 60 further includes acommon electrode 35A positioned on asurface 31A of anactuator support 30, according to an embodiment of the invention. Theactuator support 30 may include ahole 325 for passing source light to themirror 25. Theactuator support 30 is preferably formed of a generally inflexible material, preferably a material that is compatible with micro-electro-mechanical systems fabrication processes, such as silicon. However, other materials, generally or partially flexible, may also be appropriate. Thecomplaint support 20 and theactuator support 30 together formcompliant mechanism 10, which is described in detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/085,143 (Attorney Docket No. SMT-0039). - FIGS. 1A and 1B show a plan view of the
electrodes electrodes 40A are provided on thecompliant support 20 and onecommon electrode 35A is provided on theactuator support 30. However, this arrangement could be reversed. Further, a variety of other configurations of electrodes which cooperatively function together could be utilized. - The
electrodes - FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of a
tunable laser system 100, according to an embodiment of the invention. Thetunable laser system 100 includes a tunable laser 101 formed of acompliant mechanism 110, and alaser 115, for example, a semiconductor laser, preferably mounted on aheat sink 120. As shown in FIG. 3, thelaser 115 includes anactive region 135, and a high-reflectivity (HR)coating 145, at one side thereof. -
Mirror 125 is mounted on the island 111 of thecompliant mechanism 110.Mirror 125,active region 135, andHR coating 145 together form a (first) laser cavity, withmirror 125 functioning as the output mirror of the laser cavity. By adjusting the position ofmirror 125, a length of the laser cavity can be varied, varying the wavelength of light output by the tunable laser 101. Alens 130 is preferably positioned between thelaser 115 andmirror 125 to collimate the light from thelaser 115. - The
tunable laser system 100 may include an outputoptical fiber 150 configured to receive light output by the tunable laser 101. Additionally, thetunable laser system 100 may include alens 140, which functions to focus output light into the outputoptical fiber 150. -
Element 132 on the island 111 may be an anti-reflective coating. Alternatively,element 132 may be a partially reflective coating. In such an embodiment, partiallyreflective coating 132, along withactive region 135 andHR coating 145 form a second laser cavity, while partiallyreflective coating 132 andmirror 125 form a third laser cavity. The precise resonant wavelengths of the first and second cavities can be adjusted by tuning the position of the island 111, which tunes the position of both themirror 125 and the partiallyreflective coating 132, respectively, similar to the embodiment of FIG. 6 discussed below. Because themirror 125 and the partiallyreflective coating 132 move together as the position of the island 111 is tuned, the resonant wavelength of the third laser cavity, formed bymirror 125 and partiallyreflective coating 132, remains substantially constant. - FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of a
tunable laser system 200, according to another embodiment of the invention. Thetunable laser system 200 of FIG. 4 is similar to the tunable laser system of FIG. 3. Similar reference numerals have been utilized to refer to similar elements, and repetitive discussion has been omitted. - The
tunable laser system 200 includes atunable laser 201. Thetunable laser 201 employs a compliant mechanism 210, and includes alaser 215, for example, a semiconductor laser, preferably mounted on a heat sink 220. As shown in FIG. 4, thelaser 215 includes anactive region 235, and a mirror 245 at one end. - The compliant mechanism210 supports an
HR mirror 225 which, together with theactive region 235 and mirror 245, forms a laser cavity. By adjusting the position of theHR mirror 225, a length of the laser cavity can be varied, thereby varying the wavelength of light output by thetunable laser 201. - A
lens 230 is preferably positioned between thelaser 215 andmirror 225 to collimate the light from thelaser 215. Additionally, thetunable laser system 200 may include alens 240, which functions to focus output light into an (optional) outputoptical fiber 250. - FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of a
tunable laser system 300 according to another embodiment of the invention. Thetunable laser system 300 is similar to the tunable laser systems of FIGS. 3 and 4. Similar reference numerals have been utilized to refer to similar elements, and repetitive discussion has been omitted. - The
tunable laser system 300 of FIG. 5 includes atunable laser 301 comprised of a laser 315, for example, a semiconductor laser, used in combination with acompliant mechanism 310. The compliant mechanism of this embodiment differs from the compliant mechanism of previously discussed embodiments in that the shape ofHR mirror 325 supported on thecompliant mechanism 310 is adjusted to provide a desired spatial mode of thelaser light 305 output by thetunable laser 301. For example, in this embodiment, theHR mirror 325 is curved to provide a desired spatial mode of theoutput laser light 325 for coupling to an outputoptical fiber 350. The curvature of theHR mirror 325 eliminates the need for a focusing lens. That is, the curved mirror functions to focus the light. - FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of a
tunable laser system 400, according to another embodiment of the invention. Thetunable laser system 400 of FIG. 6 is similar to the tunable laser systems of FIGS. 3-5. Similar reference numerals have been utilized to refer to similar elements, and repetitive discussion has been omitted. - The
tunable laser system 400 of FIG. 6 includes atunable laser 401, for example, a semiconductor laser, which utilizes two compliant mechanism 410A and 410B.Laser 415, preferably provided on aheat sink 420, is positioned between the complaint mechanism 410A and 410B. The laser system depicted in FIG. 6 is a double resonant cavity design. One resonant cavity is formed by the gap between mirror 425B andcoating 446. Because the length of the cavity is relatively short, the mode resonances are relatively widely spaced as shown in FIG. 7(b). The precise resonant wavelengths of this cavity are adjusted by tuning the position of mirror 425B. The second cavity is formed by the gap betweencoating 446 andmirror 425A. This cavity, being longer, has more closely spaced resonant modes, as indicated in FIG. 7(c). The precise resonant wavelength of this cavity is tuned by adjusting the position ofmirror 425A. The gain profile of the laser's active output is determined by the superposition of the spectra of the two resonant cavities with the gain profile as shown in FIG. 7(d). If the length of the second cavity is adjusted such that the resonant wavelengths are equal to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) grid, then the laser is only capable of outputting at those wavelengths. The length of the first resonant cavity is adjusted to select which one of the ITU wavelengths will rise above the gain threshold of the active medium. - The
tunable laser system 400 of FIG. 7 may further include alens 440, which functions to focus light output by thetunable laser 401 into an outputoptical fiber 450. - FIG. 8 is a chart comparing the present invention to current laser technologies. In comparison to prior art VCSELs and edge-emitting lens, the tunable laser of the present invention provides a tuning range of approximately 40 mm, as well as a power level of greater than approximately 25 mw.
- The foregoing embodiments and advantages are merely exemplary and are not to be construed as limiting the present invention. The present teaching can be readily applied to other types of apparatuses. The description of the present invention is intended to be illustrative, and not to limit the scope of the claims. Many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures.
Claims (32)
1. A tunable laser system, comprising:
a laser; and
at least one compliant mechanism configured to vary a wavelength of light output by the laser.
2. The tunable laser system according to claim 1 , wherein the laser is a semiconductor laser.
3. The tunable laser system according to claim 1 , wherein the compliant mechanism comprises a mirror, and varying the position of the mirror varies a wavelength output by the laser.
4. The tunable laser system according to claim 3 , wherein the compliant mechanism comprises a compliant support to which the mirror is fixed, and at least a portion of the compliant support is substantially flexible.
5. The tunable laser system according to claim 3 , wherein the compliant mechanism comprises a compliant support to which the mirror is fixed, and at least a portion of the compliant support comprises silicon, and another portion of the compliant optical support comprises a compliant material.
6. The tunable laser system according to claim 5 , wherein the compliant material comprises an elastomer.
7. The tunable laser system according to claim 3 , wherein the mirror is movable by an actuator.
8. The tunable laser system according to claim 7 , wherein the compliant support comprises:
an island, to which the mirror is affixed; and
a frame, wherein the island and the frame are flexibly joined by a compliant member.
9. The tunable laser system according to claim 8 , wherein at least a portion of the actuator is attached to the island.
10. The tunable laser system according to claim 8 , wherein the compliant member comprises an elastomer.
11. The tunable laser system according to claim 8 , wherein the island and the frame comprise silicon.
12. The tunable laser system according to claim 8 , wherein the actuator comprises:
a plurality of electrodes positioned on a surface of the island opposite a surface to which the second mirror is attached; and
an electrode disposed on an actuator support.
13. The tunable laser system according to claim 12 , wherein the actuator support comprises silicon.
14. The tunable laser system according to claim 1 , further comprising an output optical fiber into which output light is directed.
15. The tunable laser system according to claim 14 , further comprising:
a lens configured to focus light into the output optical fiber.
16. The tunable laser system according to claim 1 , further comprising:
a lens configured to collimate light output by the laser.
17. The tunable laser system according to claim 1 , wherein the compliant mechanism is positioned between the laser and an output optical fiber.
18. The tunable laser system according to claim 1 , wherein the laser is positioned between the compliant mechanism and an output optical fiber.
19. The tunable laser system according to claim 3 , wherein the mirror is curved.
20. The tunable laser system according to claim 19 , wherein the laser is positioned between the compliant mechanism and an output optical fiber.
21. The tunable laser system according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one compliant mechanism comprises two compliant mechanisms.
22. The tunable laser system according to claim 21 , wherein the laser is positioned between the two compliant mechanisms.
23. The tunable laser system according to claim 22 , wherein the laser comprises an anti-reflective on one end and an approximately 30% reflective coating on the other end.
24. The tunable laser system according to claim 21 , further comprising:
an output optical fiber positioned to receive output light.
25. The tunable laser system according to claim 24 , further comprising:
a lens configured to focus the output light into the output optical fiber.
26. The tunable laser system according to claim 21 , wherein the two compliant mechanisms each comprise a mirror, and wherein varying the position of either mirror varies a wavelength output by the tunable laser.
27. The tunable laser system according to claim 26 , wherein each mirror is curved.
28. The tunable laser system according to claim 1 , wherein the laser comprises a first fixed mirror and an active region, and the compliant mechanism further comprises a second mirror mounted thereon, wherein a first laser cavity is formed between the first and second mirror, and wherein adjusting the position of the second mirror varies a wavelength of light output by the tunable laser.
29. The tunable laser system according to claim 28 , wherein the compliant mechanism further comprising a partially reflective coating, wherein a second laser cavity is formed between the partially reflective coating and the first mirror, which is tunable by adjusting the position of the partially reflective coating, and wherein a third laser cavity is formed between the partially reflective coating and the second mirror, which is tunable by adjusting the position of the second mirror.
30. A tunable laser, comprising:
a first fixed mirror;
a second mirror mounted on a compliant mechanism; and
an active region formed between the first and second mirrors.
31. The tunable laser according to claim 20 , wherein varying the position of the second mirror varies a wavelength output by the tunable laser.
32. A telecommunication system comprising the tunable laser system of claim 1.
Priority Applications (1)
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US10/085,143 Continuation-In-Part US6665109B2 (en) | 2000-03-20 | 2002-03-01 | Compliant mechanism and method of forming same |
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Also Published As
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US20030011866A1 (en) | 2003-01-16 |
WO2002086587A1 (en) | 2002-10-31 |
WO2002086582A1 (en) | 2002-10-31 |
US6665109B2 (en) | 2003-12-16 |
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