This technology aligns fiber pigtail arrays for coherently combining different optical beams, reducing deviation in virtual beam waist position among endcapped fibers.

Arrays of fiber pigtails have become essential tools in projecting and receiving light in various technological applications. However, a common challenge linked to their use is the difficulty of combining different optical beams coherently because of misalignment among fiber arrays. This issue mostly originates from the misalignment between the optical fiber and the endcap attached to it. Current measures to align these arrays often fall short because of the refraction or diffraction of light caused by the endcap. The endcap, which can be polished, curved, or patterned, causes a shift in the beam waist's apparent position from its actual position. This shift prompts complications in achieving an efficient, precise alignment required for the coherent combination of optical beams, demonstrating the need for a more accurate, reliable solution.

Technology Description

This technology offers precise alignment of fiber pigtail arrays used to project and receive light. Its main differentiation lies in tackling the issue of virtual beam waist position deviation in endcapped fibers. Misalignment, partly caused by the various shapes and treatment of the fiber endcaps, such as polishing, curving, and patterning, results in light refraction or diffraction that shift the beam waist position. By measuring this position before and after endcap splicing, the technology increases the precision of alignment, subsequently facilitating the production of endcapped fiber arrays suitable for coherent beam combining. The significance of this innovation lies in its unique approach to combating an inherent issue within the field of fiber pigtail arrays. The deviation in beam waist position caused by different processing methods of endcaps has long been a hindrance. This technology presents an efficient solution by introducing a mechanism to accurately measure and adjust the beam waist position, subsequently improving alignment to meet the requirements for coherent beam combining.

Benefits

  • Improves the precision of fiber alignment, enabling coherent beam combining
  • Reduces deviation in virtual beam waist positions among endcapped fibers
  • Enhances the capability of fiber pigtail arrays in projecting and receiving light
  • Offers potential for substantial enhancements in various technological applications involving optical fibers

Potential Use Cases

  • Improvement of telecommunication systems requiring precise coherent beam combining
  • Enhanced optical switch and router performance
  • Advanced laser systems incorporable into industrial manufacturing processes
  • Improved function of fiber-optic sensors in various sectors such as healthcare and environmental monitoring
  • Upgrade of optical computing systems for faster information processing and data transmission