Optical pulse tester and program

Abstract

The invention provides an optical pulse tester and a program, which can more easily perform waveform analysis of optical power measured by the optical pulse tester. A program causes a computer to execute an operation as an information processing device (10) provided with a control unit (11) that acquires a waveform indicating a temporal change in return light of pulsed light incident on an optical fiber, detects an event of the optical fiber on the basis of the waveform, and transmits the event to the computer as the information processing device (10). The control unit (11) causes a display unit (15) to display the waveform and a pattern indicating the detected event, and causes the display unit (15) to display, as the pattern, an image including the display of the traveling direction of the pulsed light.

Description

[0001] Cross-references of related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-192424 filed in Japan on November 10, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to an optical pulse tester and a program. Background Art

[0004] Optical fiber is an optical waveguide for propagating light and is widely used as a communication line for data based on optical signals. The optical fiber-based communication network is one of the important communication infrastructures that support the Internet. Therefore, the maintenance of the laid optical fiber is very important, and various optical fiber evaluations are required. The evaluation objects of optical fiber include, for example, the distance of the optical fiber, the propagation loss within the optical fiber, and the loss of the connection parts between optical fibers.

[0005] As a technology for measuring the characteristics of an optical fiber, an optical pulse tester (OTDR:

[0006] Optical Time Domain Reflectometer). The optical pulse tester injects pulse light from one end of the optical fiber to be measured, measures the power of the backscattered light and the return light such as Fresnel reflection according to the time domain, and displays and analyzes the measured optical power.

[0007] An optical pulse tester usually sets the optical power of the return light as the vertical axis and the distance calculated from the time difference from the injection of the pulse light to the return of the return light as the horizontal axis, and outputs the waveform of the optical power of the return light. If the optical fiber to be measured has events such as fusion points, connector connection points, branch points, bending points, and cut points, the waveform of the optical power of the return light will show a characteristic shape corresponding to the type of event at the location of such an event. Therefore, in the waveform analysis of the optical power of the return light, by detecting these characteristic shapes and measuring their positions, the locations of the cut part of the optical fiber, the connector connection part, and the poor fusion can be determined.

[0008] Patent Documents 1 and 2 describe a technique for detecting and displaying an event based on the waveform of optical power measured by an optical pulse tester.

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-053542

[0010] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-326126

[0011] However, there is room for improvement in the current structure from the viewpoint of displaying detected events in an easily understandable manner in order to facilitate waveform analysis of optical power. In particular, there is room for improvement in the current structure in terms of making it easier to analyze events by bidirectionally injecting pulse light into the optical fiber to be measured from the forward and reverse directions and comparing the waveforms of the return light measured from each direction. Summary of the invention

[0012] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to facilitate waveform analysis of optical power measured by an optical pulse tester.

[0013] Regarding the procedures involved in several embodiments,

[0014] (1) To cause a computer to perform actions as an information processing device, that is,

[0015] The information processing device includes a control unit that acquires a waveform representing a temporal change in return light of pulse light injected into an optical fiber.

[0016] detecting an event in the optical fiber based on the waveform,

[0017] causing a display unit to display the waveform and a pattern representing the detected event,

[0018] The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the traveling direction of the pulse light as the pattern.

[0019] In this way, the control unit of the computer that executes the operation based on the program causes the display unit to display the waveform representing the temporal change of the return light of the pulse light injected into the optical fiber and the pattern representing the event detected based on the waveform. Here, the control unit causes the display unit to display an image including the display of the traveling direction of the pulse light as the pattern representing the event. Therefore, the user can not only confirm the existence of the event, but also easily confirm the traveling direction of the pulse light, and can easily perform waveform analysis of the optical power.

[0020] In one embodiment,

[0021] (2) Based on the procedure of (1), it can be formed as follows:

[0022] The control unit acquires a first waveform indicating a temporal change in return light of pulse light incident in a first direction on the optical fiber,

[0023] acquiring a second waveform representing a temporal change in return light of the pulse light incident in the second direction of the optical fiber,

[0024] detecting a first event as an event in the optical fiber based on the first waveform,

[0025] detecting a second event as an event in the optical fiber based on the second waveform,

[0026] associating the detected first event and the detected second event at the same position with each other,

[0027] The display unit is caused to display the first waveform, the second waveform, a pattern indicating the first event and the second event that are associated with each other, a pattern indicating the first event that is not associated with the second event, and a pattern indicating the second event that is not associated with the first event.

[0028] In this way, the control unit of the computer that executes the operation based on the program causes the display unit to display the first waveform, the second waveform, the pattern representing the first event and the second event that are associated with each other, the pattern representing the first event that is not associated with the second event, and the pattern representing the second event that is not associated with the first event, based on associating the detected first event and the second event detected at the same position. Therefore, the program can represent the event using the minimum number of patterns required, and the user can easily perform waveform analysis of optical power.

[0029] In one embodiment,

[0030] (3) Based on the procedure of (2), it can be formed as follows:

[0031] The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including displays of the first direction and the second direction as the pattern representing the first event and the second event that are associated with each other.

[0032] Therefore, according to the program, an event can be detected by using one pattern to represent the waveform of the return light based on the pulse light in both the first direction and the second direction.

[0033] In one embodiment,

[0034] (4) Based on the procedure of (2) or (3), it can be formed as follows:

[0035] the control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the first direction as the pattern representing the first event that is not associated with the second event;

[0036] The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the second direction as the pattern indicating the second event that is not associated with the first event.

[0037] Therefore, according to the program, it is possible to indicate that an event is detected based on only the waveform of either the return light of the pulse light in the first direction or the return light of the pulse light in the second direction.

[0038] In one embodiment,

[0039] (5) Based on the procedure of (4), it can be formed as follows:

[0040] The control unit displays the image including the display in the first direction and the image including the display in the second direction on the display unit with emphasis.

[0041] Thus, according to the program, when an event is detected based on only the waveform of the return light of the pulsed light in the first direction or the return light of the pulsed light in the second direction, the image is highlighted. Therefore, the user can easily find the event detected based on the waveform of only one direction.

[0042] In one embodiment,

[0043] (6) Based on the procedure of any one of (1) to (5), it can be formed as follows:

[0044] The control unit displays at least one of a physical quantity related to the event represented by the pattern and a type of the event near the pattern.

[0045] In this way, according to the program, the user can easily confirm not only the existence of the event and the direction of travel of the pulse light, but also the physical quantity related to the event and the type of the event.

[0046] Regarding the optical pulse tester involved in several embodiments,

[0047] (7) An optical pulse tester that injects pulsed light into an optical fiber and measures the temporal change of the returned light, wherein:

[0048] The optical pulse tester includes a control unit that acquires a waveform representing a temporal change in the return light.

[0049] detecting an event in the optical fiber based on the waveform,

[0050] causing a display unit to display the waveform and a pattern representing the detected event,

[0051] The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the traveling direction of the pulse light as the pattern.

[0052] Thus, according to the optical pulse tester, the display unit displays a waveform representing the temporal change of the return light of the pulse light injected into the optical fiber and a pattern representing the event detected based on the waveform. Here, the optical pulse tester causes the display unit to display an image including the display of the traveling direction of the pulse light as a pattern representing the event. Therefore, the user can easily confirm not only the existence of the event, but also the traveling direction of the pulse light, and can easily perform waveform analysis of the optical power.

[0053] In one embodiment,

[0054] (8) Based on the optical pulse tester of (7), it can be formed as follows:

[0055] The control unit acquires a first waveform indicating a temporal change in return light of pulse light incident in a first direction on the optical fiber,

[0056] acquiring a second waveform representing a temporal change in return light of the pulse light incident in the second direction of the optical fiber,

[0057] detecting a first event as an event in the optical fiber based on the first waveform,

[0058] detecting a second event as an event in the optical fiber based on the second waveform,

[0059] associating the detected first event and the detected second event at the same position with each other,

[0060] The display unit is caused to display the first waveform, the second waveform, a pattern indicating the first event and the second event that are associated with each other, a pattern indicating the first event that is not associated with the second event, and a pattern indicating the second event that is not associated with the first event.

[0061] In this way, according to the optical pulse tester, after the detected first event and the second event detected at the same position are associated with each other, the display unit displays the first waveform, the second waveform, the pattern representing the first event and the second event associated with each other, the pattern representing the first event not associated with the second event, and the pattern representing the second event not associated with the first event. Therefore, the optical pulse tester can represent events using the minimum number of patterns necessary, and the user can easily perform waveform analysis of optical power.

[0062] In one embodiment,

[0063] (9) Based on the optical pulse tester of (8), it can be formed as follows:

[0064] The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including displays of the first direction and the second direction as the pattern representing the first event and the second event that are associated with each other.

[0065] As described above, according to the optical pulse tester, an event can be detected using a single pattern representing the waveform of the return light based on the pulse light in both the first direction and the second direction.

[0066] In one embodiment,

[0067] (10) Based on the optical pulse tester of (8) or (9), it can be formed as follows:

[0068] the control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the first direction as the pattern representing the first event that is not associated with the second event;

[0069] The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the second direction as the pattern indicating the second event that is not associated with the first event.

[0070] As described above, according to the optical pulse tester, it is possible to indicate that an event has been detected based on only the waveform of either the return light of the pulse light in the first direction or the return light of the pulse light in the second direction.

[0071] In one embodiment,

[0072] (11) Based on the optical pulse tester of (10), it can be formed as follows:

[0073] The control unit displays the image including the display in the first direction and the image including the display in the second direction on the display unit with emphasis.

[0074] Thus, according to the optical pulse tester, when an event is detected based on only the waveform of the return light of the pulse light in the first direction or the return light of the pulse light in the second direction, the image is highlighted and displayed. Therefore, the user can easily find the event detected based on the waveform of only one direction.

[0075] In one embodiment,

[0076] (12) Based on any one of (7) to (11), the optical pulse tester may be configured as follows:

[0077] The control unit displays at least one of a physical quantity related to the event represented by the pattern and a type of the event near the pattern.

[0078] As described above, according to the optical pulse tester, the user can easily confirm not only the existence of an event and the traveling direction of the pulse light, but also the physical quantity related to the event and the type of the event.

[0079] Regarding the procedures involved in several embodiments,

[0080] The optical pulse tester is caused to operate as the optical pulse tester of any one of (7) to (12).

[0081] Therefore, the user can easily confirm not only the existence of an event but also the traveling direction of the pulse light and can easily perform waveform analysis of the optical power.

[0082] Effects of the Invention

[0083] According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to more easily perform waveform analysis of optical power measured by an optical pulse tester. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0084] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of the waveform of the return light of the pulse light in the comparative example.

[0085] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of the waveform of the return light of the pulse light in the comparative example.

[0086] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of the waveform of the return light of the pulse light in the comparative example.

[0087] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing device according to one embodiment.

[0088] Figure 5A This is a diagram showing an example of a pattern displayed in one embodiment.

[0089] Figure 5B This is a diagram showing an example of a pattern displayed in one embodiment.

[0090] Figure 5C This is a diagram showing an example of a pattern displayed in one embodiment.

[0091] Figure 6 It means in Figure 4 An example of an image displayed in the output section is shown in FIG.

[0092] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of a waveform of return light of pulse light in one embodiment.

[0093] Fig. 8AThis is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the information processing device according to one embodiment.

[0094] Figure 8B Yes means Fig. 8A A flowchart of an example of a labeling process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0095] <Comparative Example>

[0096] Figures 1 to 3 1 is a diagram showing an example of a waveform of return light of pulse light in a comparative example. Figure 1 In FIG. 1 , image 91 shows an area for displaying and analyzing a waveform measured by an optical pulse tester (OTDR).

[0097] Graph 921 shows the waveform of the temporal change in the optical power of the return light generated by the pulse light injected into the optical fiber. Figure 1 In the figure, the horizontal axis represents the distance calculated from the time difference from the injection of the pulse light to the return light. The vertical axis represents the magnitude of the optical power of the return light. When there are events such as fusion points, connector connection points, branch points, bend points, and cut points in the optical fiber, the waveform of the temporal change of the return light represents a characteristic shape corresponding to the type of the event.

[0098] exist Figure 1 In FIG. 1 , patterns (icons, marks) 931 to 933 each represent a location where an event is detected. Figure 1 In the figure, the optical power of the return light is attenuated near patterns 931 and 933. The characteristic shape of the graph 921 with patterns 931 and 933 marked indicates the possibility of "fusion" at the positions shown by patterns 931 and 933. "Fusion" refers to heating the ends of two optical fibers so that the optical fibers are bonded to each other. A peak of the optical power of the return light is observed near pattern 932. The characteristic shape of the graph 921 with pattern 932 marked indicates the existence of reflection of pulsed light. Therefore, the characteristic shape of the graph 921 with pattern 932 marked indicates the possibility of a connection point between two optical fibers at the position shown by pattern 932. In this way, by displaying patterns 931 to 933 representing detected events near the waveform of the optical power with a characteristic shape, the distribution of events can be displayed in a visually easy to understand manner.

[0099] If pulse light is injected into an optical fiber, backscattered light will be generated. The power of backscattered light varies depending on the mode field diameter of the optical fiber and the refractive index of the core. The larger the backscattering coefficient of the optical fiber, the greater the power of the backscattered light. Consider an optical fiber that connects an optical fiber A with a larger backscattering coefficient and an optical fiber B with a smaller backscattering coefficient. When the optical pulse tester injects pulse light from optical fiber A and measures the return light, the pulse light travels from a section where the power of the backscattered light is larger to a section where the power of the backscattered light is smaller. Therefore, the optical pulse tester measures the return light whose power is greatly attenuated from the connection point of optical fiber A and optical fiber B. On the other hand, when the optical pulse tester injects pulse light from optical fiber B and measures the return light, the pulse light travels from a section where the power of the backscattered light is smaller to a section where the power of the backscattered light is larger. Therefore, the optical pulse tester measures the return light whose power increases from the connection point of optical fiber B and optical fiber A.

[0100] In this way, when the return light of pulsed light is measured with an optical fiber formed by connecting optical fibers with different backscattering coefficients, a gain difference (loss difference) is generated at the connection point due to the difference in backscattering coefficient. Therefore, in order to accurately measure the connection loss at the connection point, it is necessary to measure the connection loss in both directions, forward (optical fiber A → optical fiber B) and reverse (optical fiber B → optical fiber A), and average the two connection loss measurement values. In this way, the method of measuring the return light of pulsed light from both directions of the optical fiber and analyzing the measurement data is called bidirectional analysis.

[0101] When performing bidirectional analysis using an application on an information processing device such as a PC (Personal Computer), the information processing device displays two waveforms, one in the forward direction and the other in the reverse direction, and respectively obtains the connection loss measured in the event at the same position for the forward direction and the reverse direction, and averages the physical quantities such as the connection loss (synthesis of the two waveforms). In the case where an event is detected in only one direction, the information processing device directly calculates the connection loss calculated based on the event. Alternatively, the information processing device regards a non-existent event as an event with a connection loss of 0 dB, and calculates the connection loss of another event and the averaged connection loss. For example, with the forward waveform as a reference, the information processing device assigns a pattern representing an event in which the connection loss is averaged to the forward waveform and displays it together with the waveform. By confirming the connection loss of such a synthesized event, the user can accurately evaluate the optical fiber to be measured.

[0102] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This shows an example of a waveform that was created by combining two waveforms on a PC application. Figure 2In the image 91, the graph 922 shows the waveform of the temporal change of the optical power of the return light generated by the pulse light injected in the forward direction of the optical fiber. The graph 923 shows the waveform of the temporal change of the optical power of the return light generated by the pulse light injected in the reverse direction of the optical fiber. Patterns 941 to 945 show events detected based on the forward waveform shown in the graph 922. Patterns 951 to 955 show events detected based on the reverse waveform shown in the graph 923. The user can determine the position of the event of the waveform by confirming these patterns 941 to 945 and 951 to 955.

[0103] exist Figure 3 In the image 91, the graph 924 shows the waveform of the temporal change of the optical power of the return light generated by the pulse light injected in the forward direction of the optical fiber. The graph 925 shows the waveform of the temporal change of the optical power of the return light generated by the pulse light injected in the reverse direction of the optical fiber. Patterns 961 to 963 show events detected based on the forward waveform shown in the graph 924. Patterns 971 and 972 show events detected based on the reverse waveform shown in the graph 925. The user can determine the position of the event of the waveform by confirming the above patterns 961 to 963, 971, and 972.

[0104] exist Figure 2 In the example of , for all the forward patterns 941 to 945, the reverse patterns 951 to 955 exist at the same positions. Figure 3 In the example, in the forward patterns 961 and 962, the reverse patterns 971 and 972 exist at the same position, but in the pattern 963, the reverse pattern does not exist at the same position. Bidirectional analysis is performed on the same optical fiber, so when an event is detected in only one direction, there may be problems with the forward or reverse measurement and analysis. Therefore, when performing bidirectional analysis, the user may determine whether the event detected by the information processing device is an accurate event. At this time, the user may observe and compare the forward and reverse waveforms to perform an operation to correct the event.

[0105] In this way, when confirming and correcting an event, the user sometimes relies on the direction information to confirm from which direction the pulse light is incident, forward or reverse. In the comparative example, patterns 961 to 963, 971, and 972 all have the same shape. Therefore, the user can observe pattern 963 and confirm whether there is no corresponding pattern. However, by simply observing pattern 963, it is not possible to immediately determine from which direction of the forward or reverse direction the waveform of the return light of the pulse light is detected. Therefore, with respect to the structure involved in the comparative example, in order to facilitate the waveform analysis of the optical power, there is room for improvement from the perspective of displaying the detected event in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0106] <Implementation Method>

[0107] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each of the drawings, the same reference numerals are used for parts having the same structure or function. In the description of this embodiment, for the same parts, repeated descriptions may be appropriately omitted or simplified.

[0108] The structure involved in this embodiment adds a GUI (Graphical User Interface) of direction information to the pattern (icon, mark) representing the event, and clearly indicates the direction of the pulse light by which the event is detected. Specifically, the structure involved in this embodiment gives direction information to the pattern of the event mark of the waveform for bidirectional analysis, for example, by adding a GUI such as an arrow. The structure involved in this embodiment sets a pattern of event mark such as a right arrow for events detected only by the waveform (first waveform) of the return light of the pulse light in the forward direction (first direction). The structure involved in this embodiment sets a pattern of event mark such as a left arrow for events detected only by the waveform (second waveform) of the return light of the pulse light in the reverse direction (second direction). The structure involved in this embodiment sets a pattern of event mark such as arrows in the left and right directions for events detected in two directions. In this way, the structure involved in this embodiment displays the direction of travel of the pulse light when displaying the detected event, so that the user can easily identify the direction of travel of the pulse light while analyzing the event and the waveform.

[0109] In addition, regarding the structure involved in this embodiment, the pattern indicating the direction of the event detected only in either the forward or reverse direction is highlighted and displayed by making the color, shape, size, etc. different from the pattern indicating the direction of the event detected in both the forward and reverse directions at the same position. Therefore, when the forward and reverse waveforms are synthesized and analyzed, the user can easily distinguish the event detected only in either the forward or reverse direction from the event detected in both the forward and reverse directions by referring to the pattern and perform the analysis.

[0110] Figure 4 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing device 10 according to an embodiment. The information processing device 10 is one or a plurality of computer devices that can communicate with each other. The information processing device 10 is not limited thereto, and may be any general electronic device such as a PC or a tablet terminal, or may be other dedicated electronic devices. Figure 4 As shown, the information processing device 10 includes a control unit 11 , a storage unit 12 , a communication unit 13 , an input unit 14 , and an output unit 15 .

[0111] The control unit 11 includes one or more processors. In one embodiment, the "processor" is a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor for performing specific processing, but is not limited thereto. The control unit 11 is connected to each component constituting the information processing device 10 in a communicable manner to control the operation of the entire information processing device 10.

[0112] The storage unit 12 includes, for example, any storage module such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), ROM (Read-Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit 12 can function as a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device or a cache. The storage unit 12 stores any information used for the operation of the information processing device 10. For example, the storage unit 12 can store system programs, application programs and various information received by the communication unit 13. The storage unit 12 can store waveform data of optical power measured by an optical pulse tester. The storage unit 12 is not limited to being built into the information processing device 10, and can also be an external database or an external storage module.

[0113] The communication unit 13 includes any communication module that can communicate with other devices such as an optical pulse tester using any communication technology. The communication unit 13 may also include a communication control module for controlling communication with other devices and a storage module for storing communication data such as identification information required for communication with other devices.

[0114] The input unit 14 includes one or more input interfaces for accepting input operations of the operator and obtaining input information based on the operator's operations. For example, the input unit 14 is a physical key, a capacitive key, a directional device, a touch screen integrated with the display (display unit) of the output unit 15, or a microphone for accepting voice input, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0115] The output unit 15 includes one or more output interfaces for outputting information to the operator and notifying the operator. For example, the output unit 15 is a display that outputs information as an image, or a speaker that outputs information as a voice, but is not limited thereto. Such a display can be, for example, a liquid crystal panel display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. In addition, at least one of the input unit 14 and the output unit 15 can be integrated with the information processing device 10, or can be separately provided.

[0116] The functions of the information processing device 10 can be realized by executing the computer program (program) involved in this embodiment by the processor included in the control unit 11. That is, the functions of the information processing device 10 can be realized by software. Regarding the computer program, by causing the computer to execute the processing of the steps included in the action of the information processing device 10, the computer realizes the functions corresponding to the processing of each step. That is, the computer program is a program for causing the computer to function as the information processing device 10 involved in this embodiment. The computer program can be recorded in a recording medium that can be read by the computer. The program contains information for processing by the electronic computer and is information based on the program. For example, data that is not a direct instruction to the computer but has the property of specifying the processing of the computer is equivalent to "data in accordance with the program."

[0117] Some or all of the functions of the information processing device 10 may be implemented by a dedicated circuit included in the control unit 11. That is, some or all of the functions of the information processing device 10 may be implemented by hardware. In addition, the information processing device 10 may be implemented by a single computer or by the coordinated operation of multiple computers.

[0118] Figure 5A to Figure 5C This is a diagram showing an example of a pattern 21 ( 21 a , 21 b , 21 c ) displayed in one embodiment.

[0119] Figure 5A FIG. 2 shows an example of a pattern 21a indicating an event when an event is detected at the same position based on the waveform in both the forward direction and the reverse direction. Figure 5A In the example of FIG. 2 , the pattern 21 a includes images 22 to 25. The image 22 displays information for distinguishing detected events. Figure 5A to Figure 5C The events are displayed in a manner that can be distinguished by numerical values ​​such as "1" to "3". The information for distinguishing events is not limited to such numerical values, and may be, for example, characters or character strings.

[0120] Image 23 identifies the position where the event was detected. In this embodiment, the information processing device 10 sets the power of the return light as the vertical axis and the distance calculated based on the time difference from the injection of the pulse light to the return of the return light as the horizontal axis, and outputs the waveform of the power of the return light. Figure 5A to Figure 5C In the figure, the image 23 has an upward triangle shape that can identify the position in the horizontal axis direction, but the shape of the image 23 is not limited to a triangle, and can also be a line segment, etc. In addition, when the power of the return light is set as the horizontal axis and the distance is set as the vertical axis, the image 23 can be a shape that can identify the position in the vertical axis direction (for example, a triangle facing horizontally).

[0121] Image 24 is an example of a pattern of event markers detected based on the waveform of the return light of the pulse light incident in the reverse direction. Image 25 is an example of a pattern of event markers detected based on the waveform of the return light of the pulse light incident in the forward direction. In this embodiment, the information processing device 10 displays the waveform of the return light in such a way that the left side corresponds to the reverse direction. Therefore, images 24 and 25 can be set not only Figure 5A The left-pointing or right-pointing triangle shown in the example may also be a left-pointing or right-pointing arrow, a character (eg, "L" or "R"), or a character string (eg, "Left" or "Right"), or a combination thereof.

[0122] Figure 5B FIG. 2 shows an example of pattern 21b indicating an event when an event is detected based on only the reverse waveform. Figure 5B In the example of FIG. 1 , pattern 21 b includes images 22 and 23 and an image 241 representing the reverse direction.

[0123] Figure 5C FIG. 2 shows an example of pattern 21c indicating an event when an event is detected based on only the positive waveform. Figure 5C In the example of , pattern 21c includes images 22 and 23 and includes a positive image 251.

[0124] Bidirectional analysis is performed on the same optical fiber. Therefore, if an event is detected in only one direction, there may be problems in the measurement and analysis of the forward or reverse direction. Therefore, the information processing device 10 can display the patterns 21b and 21c indicating the event detected in only one direction in a different color, shape, size, etc. from the pattern 21a indicating the event detected in both directions, and highlight the display. For example, the information processing device 10 can highlight the images 24 and 25A of the images 241 and 251 indicating the direction of the pulsed light by making the color, shape, size, etc. different. Alternatively, for example, the information processing device 10 can highlight the entirety of the patterns 21b and 21c indicating the event detected in only one direction in a different color, shape, size, etc. from the pattern 21a indicating the event detected in both directions. In this way, by highlighting the patterns 21b and 21c indicating the event detected in only one direction in a different manner from the pattern 21a indicating the event detected in both directions, the user can easily recognize the event that should be paid special attention to.

[0125] Figure 6 It means in Figure 4 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an image 30 displayed on the display unit of the output unit 15 . The image 30 includes images 31 to 33 .

[0126] Image 31 shows a waveform representing the temporal change of the return light of the pulse light injected into the optical fiber. Image 31 includes graphs 41 and 42 showing the waveform of the return light power, with the power of the return light as the vertical axis and the distance calculated based on the time difference from the injection of the pulse light to the return of the return light as the horizontal axis. Figure 6 In the example, the right side of the horizontal axis represents the forward direction, and the left side represents the reverse direction. The vertical axis represents the optical power of the return light of the pulse light.

[0127] The image 31 also displays patterns 51 to 55 representing events detected based on the graphs 41 and 42. Figure 6 In the example, patterns 51, 53 to 55 represent events where an event is detected at the same position based on both the forward waveform and the reverse waveform. Pattern 52 represents an event where an event is detected only based on the reverse waveform. Figure 6 As shown, patterns 51 to 55 not only display the existence of an event, but also display the direction of the pulse light that detects the event based on the waveform of the return light. Therefore, the user can identify the direction of the pulse light based on patterns 51 to 55, and can easily perform waveform analysis. In addition, with respect to an event detected based on the waveform of the return light of only one pulse light, the information processing device 10 displays the event in a manner different from other patterns 51, 53 to 55 in color, shape, size, etc., as in pattern 52. Therefore, the user can easily identify the event detected based on the waveform of the return light of only one pulse light, and can promote the determination and analysis of the problem.

[0128] Image 32 provides a user interface for accepting operations on the graphs and events in image 31. For example, the user interface of image 31 includes buttons for moving a cursor, zooming in and out, and adding a marker, but is not limited thereto.

[0129] Image 33 shows physical quantities or characteristics such as the type of event, distance, connection loss, reflection attenuation, and cumulative loss for each event detected based on the waveform of the return light. Event No. is information for identifying the event. Figure 5AThe numerical value in image 22 of pattern 21 in corresponds to the numerical value in image 22. The type of event is determined based on the classification of the characteristic shape of the waveform, but can also be determined based on the physical properties of the optical fiber inferred from the shape of the waveform, such as the fusion point, connector connection point, branch point, bending point and cutting point. The distance represents the location of the detected event represented by the distance (km) from the end of the optical fiber into which the pulse light is emitted. The connection loss is the connection loss (dB) measured at the location of the event. The reflection attenuation is the attenuation of the optical power measured at the location of the event (dB). The cumulative loss is the cumulative value of the loss from the end of the optical fiber into which the pulse light is emitted (dB). The information processing device 10 displays the image 33 together with the image 31, so that detailed information about each detected event can be confirmed.

[0130] The information processing device 10 can calculate the connection loss of the event (No. 1, 3-5) detected based on the return light in two directions by averaging the connection loss calculated based on the shape of the graph 41 and the connection loss calculated based on the shape of the graph 42. Regarding the event (No. 2) detected only based on the return light in the reverse direction, the information processing device 10 can directly set the connection loss calculated based on the shape of the graph 42 as the connection loss of the event. Alternatively, the information processing device 10 can calculate the connection loss of the event by averaging the connection loss calculated based on the shape of the graph 42 and the connection loss 0. Similarly, regarding other physical quantities such as the reflection attenuation amount, the information processing device 10 can calculate based on the average value of the reflection attenuation amount calculated based on the shapes of the graphs 41 and 42 of the detected event.

[0131] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may display information such as connection loss and return loss in the vicinity of the patterns 51 to 55 representing the event in the image 31. Furthermore, when the information processing device 10, for example, positions a pointer such as a mouse pointer on the patterns 51 to 55, the information such as connection loss and return loss may be displayed in the vicinity of the patterns 51 to 55 in the image 31 in association with the patterns 51 to 55. In this way, by displaying information associated with the event in the vicinity of the patterns 51 to 55 representing the event, the user can more easily perform waveform analysis.

[0132] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a waveform of return light of pulse light in one embodiment. Figure 7In the figure, image 31 shows graphs 43, 44 and patterns 56 to 58. Graph 43 shows the waveform of the return light of the forward pulse light. Graph 44 shows the waveform of the return light of the reverse pulse light. Pattern 56 shows an event when the event is detected based on only the reverse waveform. Pattern 57 shows an event when the event is detected based on both the forward waveform and the reverse waveform. Pattern 58 shows an event when the event is detected based on only the forward waveform. Figure 7 In this way, the information processing device 10 displays the direction of the pulse light in an easily understandable manner in the event marker patterns 56 to 58. Therefore, the user can smoothly perform bidirectional analysis.

[0133] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B 1 is a flowchart showing an example of operation of an information processing device according to an embodiment. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The operation of the information processing device 10 described above may correspond to one of the control methods of the information processing device 10 . Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The actions of each step can be executed based on the control of the control unit 11 of the information processing device 10.

[0134] In step S1, the control unit 11 obtains the waveform of the return light measured using the forward and reverse pulsed lights. Specifically, the control unit 11 can receive and obtain the measured value of the waveform of the return light from the optical pulse tester via the communication unit 13. Alternatively, the control unit 11 can obtain the measured value of the waveform of the return light measured using the optical pulse tester using a recording medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. The measured value of the waveform of the return light can include information indicating the correspondence between time and optical power measured at time intervals corresponding to the sampling rate, and information indicating whether it is forward or reverse. Below, an example is described in which the control unit 11 obtains the forward waveform and the reverse waveform one by one in step S1.

[0135] In step S2 , the control unit 11 analyzes the positive waveform among the waveforms acquired in step S1 , and as a result, acquires the detected event as the first event.

[0136] In step S3 , the control unit 11 analyzes the inverse waveform of the waveform acquired in step S1 , and as a result, acquires the detected event as the second event.

[0137] In the storage unit 12 of the information processing device 10, for each type of event, information on the shape of a characteristic waveform corresponding to the type of the event is pre-registered. In steps S2 and S3, the control unit 11 refers to the shape of the pre-registered waveform, detects the event based on the waveform acquired in step S1, and acquires it as the first event or the second event. The control unit 11 can acquire the first event and the second event in a manner associated with information such as the position of the event, the connection loss, and the reflection attenuation. The control unit 11 can calculate the connection loss and the reflection attenuation based on the waveform of the return light of the detected event.

[0138] In step S4, the control unit 11 integrates the waveforms and analysis results of the return light generated by the forward and reverse pulsed lights. When integrating, the control unit 11 can integrate the waveforms and analysis results by associating the positions of the forward waveform and the reverse waveform using information indicating which is the forward or reverse direction.

[0139] In step S5, the control unit 11 performs labeling processing on the waveform of the integrated return light by labeling a pattern indicating the presence of an event. Figure 8B The marking process is described in detail.

[0140] In step S6, the control unit 11 displays the waveform of the return light generated by the forward and reverse pulsed lights, which is marked with a pattern (marker) by the marking process, on the display (display unit) of the output unit 15. After step S6 is completed, the control unit 11 ends the process of the flowchart.

[0141] Figure 8B Yes means Fig. 8A The control unit 11 refers to Fig. 8A The waveforms and analysis results integrated in step S4 are used to perform the processing of steps S12 to S17 for all detected events.

[0142] In step S11 , the control unit 11 refers to the waveform and analysis result integrated in step S4 , and focuses on one of the unprocessed events.

[0143] In step S12, the control unit 11 determines whether there are both the first event and the second event corresponding to the event of interest in step S11. Specifically, for example, when the event of interest in step S11 is an event detected from the forward waveform, if there is an event detected from the reverse waveform at the same distance (position) as the event of interest, the control unit 11 can determine that both are present. When the event of interest in step S11 is an event detected from the reverse waveform, if there is an event detected from the forward waveform at the same distance (position) as the event of interest, the control unit 11 can determine that both are present. When there is no event at the same distance (position) and in the opposite direction as the event of interest in step S11, the control unit 11 can determine that both are not present. When the control unit 11 determines that there are both the first event and the second event corresponding to the event of interest (YES in step S12), it proceeds to step S13, and when it is not the case (NO in step S12), it proceeds to step S15.

[0144] In step S13, the control unit 11 sets the bidirectional mark (for example Figure 5A The pattern 21a) is associated with both the first event and the second event determined to exist in step S12. The control unit 11 classifies both the first event and the second event as processed events through this processing. That is, the control unit 11 classifies the event of interest in step S11 and the event at the same distance (position) as the event of interest as processed events. After step S13 is completed, the control unit 11 proceeds to step S14.

[0145] In step S14, the control unit 11 refers to Fig. 8A The waveform and analysis result integrated in step S4 are used to determine whether there is an unprocessed event. If there is an unprocessed event (YES in step S14), the control unit 11 returns to step S11. If not (NO in step S14), the marking process ends and enters Fig. 8A Step S6.

[0146] In step S15, control unit 11 determines whether the event focused in step S11 corresponds to the first event. If it corresponds to the first event (YES in step S15), control unit 11 proceeds to step S16, and if not (NO in step S15), proceeds to step S17.

[0147] In step S16, the control unit 11 sets the positive flag (for example Figure 5CThe pattern 21c) is associated with the event determined to be equivalent to the first event in step S15. The control unit 11 classifies the event of interest in step S11 as a processed event through this process. After step S16 is completed, the control unit 11 proceeds to step S14.

[0148] In step S17, the control unit 11 sets the reverse flag (for example Figure 5B The pattern 21b) is associated with the event determined not to correspond to the first event in step S15. The control unit 11 classifies the event of interest in step S11 as a processed event through this process. After step S17 is completed, the control unit 11 proceeds to step S14.

[0149] As described above, the information processing device 10 acquires a waveform representing the temporal change of the return light of the pulse light injected into the optical fiber, detects an event of the optical fiber based on the acquired waveform, and causes the display unit of the output unit 15 to display the waveform and a pattern representing the detected event. Here, the information processing device 10 causes the display unit of the output unit 15 to display the direction of travel of the pulse light (for example, Figure 5A 24, 25, Figure 5B 241 Figure 5C 251, etc.) are displayed as patterns representing events. Therefore, the user can easily confirm the direction of travel of the waveform that detected the event.

[0150] In this way, the characteristics of the direction of travel of the waveform of the detected event can be easily confirmed, which is particularly useful in bidirectional analysis. Regarding the event detected only in the waveform of the unidirectional return light, the user needs to verify whether the event is detected by mistake or the event detection is accurate but the event is not detected in the reverse measurement. During this verification, the user also refers to the synthesized waveform of the two waveforms to determine whether there is a false detection, etc. Therefore, the direction information of the event mark displayed in the pattern representing the event is beneficial to the above situation. The user can omit the labor of confirming multiple events of the two waveforms of the forward and reverse directions. In addition, even in the case of displaying the waveform of the return light and the event in only one direction, the information processing device 10 can display an image including the display of the direction of travel of the pulse light as a pattern representing the event.

[0151] In addition, the information processing device 10 displays direction information in the pattern of the event mark, so that the user can clearly determine the event in the forward direction, the reverse direction, or both directions by simply observing the pattern during bidirectional analysis. Sometimes, in bidirectional analysis, the user can delete the event if an erroneous event is detected, or add an event if there is no accurate event. The information processing device 10 effectively assists the user in analysis and operation by making the direction information of the event known at a glance.

[0152] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a structural example in which the information processing device 10 displays an image including a display of the traveling direction of the pulse light as a pattern representing an event is described, but such processing may also be performed by other devices. For example, on a display provided in an optical pulse tester, an image including a display of the traveling direction of the pulse light may be displayed as a pattern representing an event. Such display of the optical pulse tester may be implemented based on the control of a program such as firmware that executes actions in the optical pulse tester. Thus, in the optical pulse tester, an image including a display of the traveling direction of the pulse light may be displayed as a pattern representing an event. According to such an optical pulse tester, after the measurement of the optical pulse tester in the forward and reverse directions of the optical fiber is completed, it is easy for the user to immediately find the event that he wants to confirm and check during the bidirectional analysis at the work site.

[0153] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, multiple code blocks recorded in the block diagram may be integrated, or one code block may be segmented. Multiple steps recorded in the flow chart may be replaced by the method of executing in time series according to the description, and may be executed in parallel or in different orders according to the processing capacity of the device executing each step, or as needed. In addition, changes may be made within the scope of the subject matter of the present invention.

[0154] Description of the label

[0155] 10 Information processing device

[0156] 11. Control Unit

[0157] 12 Storage

[0158] 13 Ministry of Communications

[0159] 14 Input section

[0160] 15 Output

[0161] 21(21a, 21b, 21c) pattern

[0162] 22-25 images

[0163] 241, 251 images

[0164] 30-33 images

[0165] 41~44 curve graph

[0166] 51~57 Pattern

[0167] 91 images

[0168] 921~925 curve graph

[0169] 931, 932 pattern

[0170] 941~945 pattern

[0171] 951~955 pattern

[0172] 961~963 pattern

[0173] 971, 972 pattern

Claims

1. A program, wherein: The program causes the computer to perform actions as an information processing device, that is, The information processing device includes a control unit that acquires a waveform representing a temporal change in return light of pulse light injected into an optical fiber. detecting an event in the optical fiber based on the waveform, causing a display unit to display the waveform and a pattern representing the detected event, The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the traveling direction of the pulse light as the pattern.

2. The program according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit acquires a first waveform indicating a temporal change in return light of pulse light incident in a first direction on the optical fiber, acquiring a second waveform representing a temporal change in return light of the pulse light incident in the second direction of the optical fiber, detecting a first event as an event in the optical fiber based on the first waveform, detecting a second event as an event in the optical fiber based on the second waveform, associating the detected first event and the detected second event at the same position with each other, The display unit is caused to display the first waveform, the second waveform, a pattern indicating the first event and the second event that are associated with each other, a pattern indicating the first event that is not associated with the second event, and a pattern indicating the second event that is not associated with the first event.

3. The program according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including displays of the first direction and the second direction as the pattern representing the first event and the second event that are associated with each other.

4. The program according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: the control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the first direction as the pattern representing the first event that is not associated with the second event; The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the second direction as the pattern indicating the second event that is not associated with the first event.

5. The program according to claim 4, wherein: The control unit displays the image including the display in the first direction and the image including the display in the second direction on the display unit with emphasis.

6. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The control unit displays at least one of a physical quantity related to the event represented by the pattern and a type of the event near the pattern.

7. An optical pulse tester that injects pulse light into an optical fiber and measures the temporal change of the return light, wherein: The optical pulse tester comprises a control unit, The control unit acquires a waveform representing a temporal change of the return light. detecting an event in the optical fiber based on the waveform, causing a display unit to display the waveform and a pattern representing the detected event, The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the traveling direction of the pulse light as the pattern.

8. The optical pulse tester according to claim 7, wherein: The control unit acquires a first waveform indicating a temporal change in return light of pulse light incident in a first direction on the optical fiber, acquiring a second waveform representing a temporal change in return light of the pulse light incident in the second direction of the optical fiber, detecting a first event as an event in the optical fiber based on the first waveform, detecting a second event as an event in the optical fiber based on the second waveform, associating the detected first event and the detected second event at the same position with each other, The display unit is caused to display the first waveform, the second waveform, a pattern indicating the first event and the second event that are associated with each other, a pattern indicating the first event that is not associated with the second event, and a pattern indicating the second event that is not associated with the first event.

9. The optical pulse tester according to claim 8, wherein: The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including displays of the first direction and the second direction as the pattern representing the first event and the second event that are associated with each other.

10. The optical pulse tester according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: the control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the first direction as the pattern representing the first event that is not associated with the second event; The control unit causes the display unit to display an image including a display of the second direction as the pattern indicating the second event that is not associated with the first event.

11. The optical pulse tester according to claim 10, wherein: The control unit displays the image including the display in the first direction and the image including the display in the second direction on the display unit with emphasis.

12. The optical pulse tester according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein: The control unit displays at least one of a physical quantity related to the event represented by the pattern and a type of the event near the pattern.

13. A program, wherein: The program causes the optical pulse tester to operate as the optical pulse tester according to any one of claims 7 to 12.

Images