Optical communication system, vehicle, and industrial optical network

Abstract

This application provides an optical communication system, a vehicle, and an industrial optical network, and relates to the optical communication field. The light source module in this optical communication system can be separately connected to a group of first nodes through two carrier bearer networks. Therefore, even if any one of the carrier bearer networks fails, the other carrier bearer network can continue to transmit the optical carrier, so that the reliability of the optical carrier transmission is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved. In addition, since the two carrier bearer networks are independent of each other and can work simultaneously, no failover is required after any one of the carrier bearer networks fails. This can avoid the transmission interruption of the optical carrier caused by the failover, and further avoid the transmission interruption of the service optical signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the priority of Chinese Patent Application No. 202110877150.0, titled "Optical Communication System, Vehicle, and Industrial Optical Network", filed on July 31, 2021, and the entire content of the Chinese Patent Application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This application relates to the field of optical communication, and in particular, to optical communication systems, vehicles, and industrial optical networks.

Background Art

[0003] In the prior art, the exchange of signals between service nodes is generally implemented using electrical signals. However, since the transmission speed of electrical signals is limited and the transmission speed of optical signals is higher, implementing the exchange of signals between service nodes using an optical communication system has become the focus of research. The reliability of optical communication systems is one of the important research themes.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] This application provides an optical communication system, a vehicle, and an industrial optical network. This optical communication system has high reliability.

[0005] According to one aspect, an optical communication system is provided. The present optical communication system includes a light source module, a first carrier bearer network, a second carrier bearer network, a group of first nodes, a first service bearer network, and a group of second nodes. The first carrier bearer network and the second carrier bearer network provide backup for each other. The light source module is separately connected to a group of first nodes through the first carrier bearer network and the second carrier bearer network. The light source module is configured to separately transmit optical carriers to a group of first nodes through the first carrier bearer network and the second carrier bearer network. A group of first nodes is connected to a group of second nodes through the first service bearer network. Each first node is configured to modulate the received optical carrier based on a service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal and transmit the service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the first service bearer network.

[0006] The fact that the first carrier bearer network and the second carrier bearer network provide backup for each other means that the two carrier bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously. Correspondingly, the light source module can simultaneously transmit optical carriers through the two carrier bearer networks. Since the light source module is connected to a group of first nodes through the two carrier bearer networks, even if one of the carrier bearer networks fails, the other carrier bearer network can continue to transmit optical carriers. Therefore, the reliability of optical carrier transmission is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved. In addition, since the two carrier bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously, no failover is required after one of the carrier bearer networks fails. Thereby, the interruption of optical carrier transmission caused by failover can be avoided.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the light source module includes a first light source and a second light source that provide backup for each other. The first light source is connected to a group of first nodes through a first carrier bearer network. The second light source is connected to the group of first nodes through a second carrier bearer network. The fact that the first light source and the second light source provide backup for each other means that the two light sources are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously. By providing two light sources that provide backup for each other, the reliability of the light source module can be effectively improved. In addition, since the two light sources can operate simultaneously, when one of the light sources fails, it is not necessary to use an optical switch to switch the light source that provides the optical carrier. In other words, no failover is required. In this way, the interruption of the optical carrier transmission caused by failover can be avoided.

[0008] Optionally, both the first light source and the second light source may be a single-wavelength light source or a wide-spectrum light source. The single-wavelength light source can provide an optical carrier having a single wavelength. The wide-spectrum light source can provide an optical carrier whose bandwidth is greater than a threshold value. In other words, the optical carrier provided by the wide-spectrum light source has a wide bandwidth. The light source module further includes a first splitter and a second splitter. The first light source is connected to the first carrier bearer network through the first splitter. The first splitter is configured to split the optical carrier provided by the first light source and separately transmit the split optical carriers to the respective first nodes through the first carrier bearer network. The second light source is connected to the second carrier bearer network through the second splitter. The second splitter is configured to split the optical carrier provided by the second light source and separately transmit the split optical carriers to the respective first nodes through the second carrier bearer network.

[0009] When both the first light source and the second light source are single-wavelength light sources, in order to avoid interference between optical carriers, the wavelengths of the optical carriers provided by the two light sources are different. When both the first light source and the second light source are wide-spectrum light sources, since the wide-spectrum light source is not a coherent light source, the bands of the optical carriers provided by the two light sources may be the same or different. Since the costs of the single-wavelength light source, the wide-spectrum light source, and the splitter are all low, by using a combination of the single-wavelength light source (or wide-spectrum light source) and the splitter to provide optical carriers to a plurality of first nodes, the cost of the light source module can be effectively reduced.

[0010] Optionally, both the first light source and the second light source may be multi-wavelength light sources. The first light source is configured to output a plurality of single-wavelength optical carriers in parallel to a first carrier-bearing network. The first carrier-bearing network can transmit an optical carrier having a certain wavelength to each first node. The second light source is configured to output a plurality of single-wavelength optical carriers in parallel to a second carrier-bearing network. The second carrier-bearing network can transmit an optical carrier having a certain wavelength to each first node. In order to avoid interference between optical carriers, the wavelengths of the optical carriers transmitted to the same first node by the first carrier-bearing network and the second carrier-bearing network are different.

[0011] The multi-wavelength light source can output a plurality of single-wavelength optical carriers in parallel, and the optical carriers of each wavelength can be transmitted to one first node without being split, so it can be guaranteed that the power of the optical carriers received by the first node is high. Therefore, it is guaranteed that the transmission performance of the service optical signal obtained by modulating the optical carrier is better.

[0012] Optionally, each first node includes a first optical path coupler and an electro-optic modulator. The first optical path coupler is separately connected to a first carrier bearer network, a second carrier bearer network, and the electro-optic modulator. The first optical path coupler is configured to couple an optical carrier transmitted by the first carrier bearer network and an optical carrier transmitted by the second carrier bearer network, and transmit the coupled optical carrier to the electro-optic modulator. The electro-optic modulator is connected to a first service bearer network. The electro-optic modulator is configured to modulate the optical carrier transmitted by the first optical path coupler based on a service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal, and transmit the service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the first service bearer network.

[0013] Since the two carrier bearer networks can each transmit an optical carrier to the first node, an optical path coupler may be arranged at the first node to combine the two optical carriers. If the wavelengths or bands of the two optical carriers received by the first node are different, the first optical path coupler may be a multiplexer or an optical combiner. If the bands of the two optical carriers received by the first node are the same, the first optical path coupler is an optical combiner.

[0014] Optionally, the optical communication system may further include a second service bearer network. The second service bearer network and the first service bearer network provide backup for each other. A group of first nodes are further connected to a group of second nodes through the second service bearer network, and each first node is further configured to transmit a service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the second service bearer network.

[0015] The fact that the second service bearer network provides backup for the first service bearer network means that the two service bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously. Since the first node can be connected to the second node through the two service bearer networks, even if one of the service bearer networks fails, the other service bearer network can continue to transmit service optical signals. Therefore, the reliability of service optical signal transmission is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved. In addition, since the two service bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously, no failover is required after one of the service bearer networks fails. As a result, the interruption of service optical signal transmission caused by failover can be avoided.

[0016] Optionally, each first node includes a first optical path coupler, an electro-optic modulator, and an optical path separator. The first optical path coupler is separately connected to the first carrier bearer network, the second carrier bearer network, and the electro-optic modulator. The first optical path coupler is configured to combine the optical carrier transmitted by the first carrier bearer network and the optical carrier transmitted by the second carrier bearer network, and transmit the combined optical carrier to the electro-optic modulator. The electro-optic modulator is connected to the optical path separator. The electro-optic modulator is configured to modulate the optical carrier transmitted by the first optical path coupler based on the service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal, and transmit the service optical signal to the optical path separator. The optical path separator is further separately connected to the first service bearer network and the second service bearer network. The optical path separator is configured to separate the service optical signal and separately transmit the separated service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the first service bearer network and the second service bearer network.

[0017] When the wavelengths or bands of two optical carriers received by the first node are different, the optical path separator is a demultiplexer. When the bands of two optical carriers received by the first node are the same, the optical path separator is a splitter. Since the first node uses the first optical path coupler to combine the optical carriers transmitted by two carrier bearer networks and uses the optical path separator to separate the service optical signal, only one electro-optic modulator needs to be arranged in the first node. In this way, the cost of the first node is effectively reduced, and the cost of the optical communication system is further reduced.

[0018] Optionally, each first node includes a first electro-optic modulator and a second electro-optic modulator that provide backup for each other. The first electro-optic modulator is separately connected to the first carrier bearer network and the first service bearer network. The first electro-optic modulator is configured to modulate the optical carrier transmitted by the first carrier bearer network based on the service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal, and transmit the modulated service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the first service bearer network. The second electro-optic modulator is separately connected to the second carrier bearer network and the second service bearer network. The second electro-optic modulator is configured to modulate the optical carrier transmitted by the second carrier bearer network based on the service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal, and transmit the modulated service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the second service bearer network. Since two electro-optic modulators are arranged in the first node, when one of the electro-optic modulators fails, the other electro-optic modulator can still continue to operate. In this way, the reliability of the first node and the system is effectively improved.

[0019] Optionally, each second node includes a second optical path coupler and a photoelectric receiver. The second optical path coupler is separately connected to the first service bearer network, the second service bearer network, and the photoelectric receiver. The second optical path coupler is configured to combine the service optical signal transmitted by the first service bearer network and the service optical signal transmitted by the second service bearer network, and transmit the combined service optical signal to the photoelectric receiver. The photoelectric receiver is configured to demodulate the service optical signal transmitted by the second optical path coupler. When the wavelengths or bands of the two service optical signals received by the second node are different, the second optical path coupler is a multiplexer or an optical combiner. When the bands of the two service optical signals received by the second node are the same, the second optical path coupler is an optical combiner. Since the second node uses the second optical path coupler to combine the service optical signals transmitted by the two service bearer networks, only one photoelectric receiver needs to be arranged in the second node. In this way, the cost of the second node is effectively reduced, and the cost of the optical communication system is further reduced.

[0020] Optionally, each second node includes a first photoelectric receiver and a second photoelectric receiver that provide backup for each other. The first photoelectric receiver is connected to the first service bearer network and is configured to demodulate the first service optical signal transmitted by the first service bearer network. The second photoelectric receiver is connected to the second service bearer network and is configured to demodulate the second service optical signal transmitted by the second service bearer network. Since two photoelectric receivers are arranged in the second node, when one of the photoelectric receivers fails, the other photoelectric receiver can still continue to operate. In this way, the reliability of the second node and the system is effectively improved.

[0021] Optionally, the first service bearer network may be a star network. A star network can realize multipoint communication, so the flexibility and efficiency of node - to - node communication are effectively improved. In addition, the failure of a single node in the star network does not affect the normal communication between other nodes, and the reliability of the star network is high.

[0022] Optionally, the first service bearer network may include a first optical waveguide, a service distributor, and a second optical waveguide. Both the first optical waveguide and the second optical waveguide are separately connected to a group of first nodes, a group of second nodes, and the service distributor. The service distributor is configured to receive a service optical signal from at least one of a group of first nodes and a group of second nodes through the first optical waveguide, combine the received service optical signals, split the combined service optical signals, and separately transmit the split service optical signals to the group of first nodes and the group of second nodes through the second optical waveguide. The optical waveguide may be an optical fiber (i.e., a light - guiding fiber). Since the service distributor can broadcast the service optical signal transmitted by any node to each node in the optical communication system, flexible multipoint communication can be realized.

[0023] Optionally, the service distributor may be a star coupler. The input end of the star coupler is connected to the first optical waveguide, and the output end is connected to the second optical waveguide. The star coupler can combine at least one channel of service optical signals received by the input end of the star coupler, then split the combined service optical signals, and transmit the split service optical signals to each node through the second optical waveguide.

[0024] Alternatively, when the light source in the light source module is a multi-wavelength light source, the service distributor may include an arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) and a third splitter. One end of the AWG is connected to the first optical waveguide, and the other end of the AWG is connected to the input end of the third splitter. The output end of the third splitter is connected to the second optical waveguide. The AWG can multiplex at least one channel of received service optical signals and then transmit the multiplexed signals to the third splitter. The third splitter can split the service optical signals transmitted by the AWG and then transmit the split service optical signals to each node through the second optical waveguide.

[0025] According to another aspect, an optical communication system is provided. The present optical communication system includes a light source module, a first carrier bearer network, a group of first nodes, a first service bearer network, a second service bearer network, and a group of second nodes. The first service bearer network and the second service bearer network provide backup for each other. The light source module is connected to a group of first nodes through the first carrier bearer network. The light source module is configured to transmit optical carriers to a group of first nodes through the first carrier bearer network and the second carrier bearer network. The group of first nodes are separately connected to a group of second nodes through the first service bearer network and the second service bearer network. Each first node is configured to modulate the received optical carrier based on a service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal and separately transmit the service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the first service bearer network and the second service bearer network.

[0026] The fact that the first service bearer network and the second service bearer network provide backup for each other means that the two service bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously. Since the first node can separately transmit service optical signals to the second node through the two service bearer networks, even if one of the service bearer networks fails, the other service bearer network can continue to transmit service optical signals. Therefore, the reliability of service optical signal transmission is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved. In addition, since the two service bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously, no failover is required after one of the service bearer networks fails. Thereby, the interruption of service optical signal transmission caused by failover can be avoided.

[0027] According to yet another aspect, a vehicle is provided. The vehicle includes an in-vehicle controller, an in-vehicle sensor, an in-vehicle actuator, and an optical communication system according to any one of the foregoing aspects. The in-vehicle sensor is connected to a first node in the optical communication system and is configured to provide a service signal to the first node. The in-vehicle controller is connected to a second node in the optical communication system and is configured to receive a service electrical signal transmitted by the second node. Alternatively, the in-vehicle controller is connected to the first node in the optical communication system and is configured to provide a service signal to the first node. The in-vehicle actuator is connected to the second node in the optical communication system and is configured to receive a service electrical signal transmitted by the second node. In other words, the optical communication system can realize signal exchange between the in-vehicle sensor and the in-vehicle controller, or can realize signal exchange between the in-vehicle controller and the in-vehicle actuator.

[0028] During the driving process of a vehicle, if the communication between an in-vehicle sensor and an in-vehicle controller is interrupted, or the communication between the in-vehicle controller and an in-vehicle actuator is interrupted, there may be a serious situation. For example, the vehicle may become uncontrollable. Since the reliability of the optical communication system used by the vehicle provided in this application is high, the probability of communication interruption between in-vehicle components can be effectively reduced, and therefore, the reliability of the vehicle during driving is guaranteed.

[0029] According to still another aspect, an industrial optical network is provided. The industrial optical network includes an industrial controller, an industrial sensor, an industrial actuator, and an optical communication system according to any one of the foregoing aspects. The industrial sensor is connected to a first node in the optical communication system and is configured to provide a service signal to the first node. The industrial controller is connected to a second node in the optical communication system and is configured to receive a service electrical signal transmitted by the second node. Alternatively, the industrial controller is connected to the first node in the optical communication system and is configured to provide a service signal to the first node. The industrial actuator is connected to the second node in the optical communication system and is configured to receive a service electrical signal transmitted by the second node. In other words, the optical communication system can realize signal exchange between the industrial sensor and the industrial controller, or can realize signal exchange between the industrial controller and the industrial actuator. Since the reliability of the optical communication system used by the industrial optical network provided in this application is high, the probability of communication interruption between industrial components can be effectively reduced, and therefore, the reliability of the industrial optical network during operation is guaranteed.

[0030] In short, the present application provides an optical communication system, a vehicle, and an industrial optical network. The light source module in the optical communication system can be separately connected to a group of first nodes through two carrier bearer networks. Even if one of the carrier bearer networks fails, the other carrier bearer network can continue to transmit optical carriers. Therefore, the reliability of optical carrier transmission is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved. In addition, the two carrier bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously. Therefore, after one of the carrier bearer networks fails, no failover is required. Thereby, the interruption of optical carrier transmission caused by failover can be avoided, and the interruption of service optical signal transmission can be further avoided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0031]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0032] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, an optical communication system, a vehicle, and an industrial optical network provided in the embodiments of the present application will be described in detail.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an optical communication system according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 1, the optical communication system includes a light source module 01, a first carrier bearer network 02, a second carrier bearer network 03, a group of first nodes 04, a first service bearer network 05, and a group of second nodes 06. The first carrier bearer network 02 and the second carrier bearer network 03 provide backup for each other. The fact that the first carrier bearer network 02 and the second carrier bearer network 03 provide backup for each other means that the two carrier bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously. In other words, the two carrier bearer networks provide hot backup for each other. The light source module 01 is a component configured to provide an optical carrier, and may also be called a light source module or a light source assembly.

[0034] Please refer to FIG. 1. The light source module 01 is separately connected to a group of first nodes 04 through the first carrier bearer network 02 and the second carrier bearer network 03. The light source module 01 is configured to separately transmit an optical carrier to a group of first nodes 04 through the first carrier bearer network 02 and the second carrier bearer network 03. Since the first carrier bearer network 02 and the second carrier bearer network 03 can operate simultaneously, the light source module 01 can transmit an optical carrier simultaneously through the two carrier bearer networks.

[0035] A group of first nodes 04 is connected to a group of second nodes 06 through a first service bearer network 05. Each first node 04 is configured to modulate an optical carrier based on a service electrical signal and transmit a service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes 06 through the first service bearer network 05 in order to obtain the service optical signal.

[0036] Each first node 04 includes a transmitter (TX) module. The TX module can modulate a service electrical signal onto an optical carrier to obtain a service optical signal. Each second node 06 includes a receiver (RX) module. The RX module can demodulate a received service optical signal to recover the service electrical signal. The first node 04 may also be called a signal transmission node, and the second node 06 may also be called a signal reception node.

[0037] It should be understood that a group of first nodes 04 refers to a plurality of first nodes 04, and a group of second nodes 06 refers to a plurality of second nodes 06. In addition, the number of first nodes 04 and the number of second nodes 06 included in the optical communication system may be the same or different. Each first node 04 is connected to at least one of the second nodes 06 through the first service bearer network 05 and can transmit a service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes 06. For example, refer to FIG. 1. Each first node 04 is connected to a group of second nodes 06 and can transmit a service optical signal to the group of second nodes 06.

[0038] In each of the first carrier bearer network 02 and the second carrier bearer network 03, the carrier bearer network includes a plurality of optical waveguides. Each optical waveguide is configured to connect the light source module 01 to the first node 04. For example, assuming that the optical communication system includes N first nodes 04 and N is an integer greater than 1, both the first carrier bearer network 02 and the second carrier bearer network 03 may include N optical waveguides. Similarly, the first service bearer network 05 also includes a plurality of optical waveguides. Each optical waveguide is configured to connect the first node 04 to the second node 06.

[0039] Optionally, the optical waveguide may be an optical fiber. In addition, the plurality of optical fibers included in each of the first carrier bearer network 02, the second carrier bearer network 03, and the first service bearer network 05 may be wired in a clustering manner to facilitate the maintenance of the bearer network. The optical fiber may be a silica optical fiber or may be an optical fiber made of another material such as a polymer. In the present embodiment of the present application, the material of the optical fiber in the bearer network is not limited as long as it is guaranteed that the optical fiber can transmit an optical signal.

[0040] In the optical communication system according to the present embodiment of the present application, since the light source module can provide optical carriers to a plurality of first nodes, the number of light source modules that need to be arranged in the optical communication system can be effectively reduced. Therefore, the cost of the optical communication system is reduced, and the maintenance and replacement of the light source module are facilitated. In addition, since the light source module can be separately connected to a group of first nodes through two carrier bearer networks, even if one of the carrier bearer networks fails, the other carrier bearer network can continue to transmit optical carriers. Therefore, the reliability of optical carrier transmission is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved.

[0041] In addition, the two carrier bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously. Therefore, after one of the carrier bearer networks fails, the first node can continue to generate service optical signals based on the optical carriers transmitted by the other carrier bearer network and can transmit the service optical signals. In the above process, there is no need to switch the carrier bearer network used to transmit optical carriers. In other words, no failover is required. This can avoid the interruption of optical carrier transmission caused by failover and further avoid the interruption of service optical signal transmission. In this way, it can be guaranteed that when a failure occurs in one of the carrier bearer networks, the first node and the second node can continue to maintain a normal communication state.

[0042] The optical communication system according to the present embodiment of the present application can be used in a remote communication network (for example, a passive optical access network), a vehicle, or an industrial optical network. When the optical communication system is used in a remote communication network, the nodes in the optical communication system may be an optical line terminal (OLT), an optical network unit (ONU), or the like. When the optical communication system is used in a vehicle, the nodes in the optical communication system may be an in-vehicle sensor, an in-vehicle actuator, or a vehicle interface unit (VIU) connected to an in-vehicle controller. The VIU may also be called an in-vehicle communication optical box. When the optical communication system is used in an industrial optical network, the nodes in the optical communication system may be an industrial sensor, an industrial actuator, or an industrial interface unit connected to an industrial controller. The industrial interface unit may also be called an industrial communication optical box.

[0043] In application scenarios such as vehicle and industrial optical networks, it should be understood that communication interruptions between nodes can cause serious consequences, for example, rendering an autonomous vehicle uncontrollable or an industrial actuator (e.g., a mechanical arm) uncontrollable. Therefore, the aforementioned application scenarios have high requirements for the reliability of inter-node communication. The solution according to the present embodiment of the present application can effectively reduce the probability of communication interruption between nodes caused by a failure of the carrier bearer network. Therefore, this solution can be applied to the aforementioned application scenarios with high requirements for communication reliability. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of an optical communication system according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 2, the light source module 01 may include a first light source 011 and a second light source 012 that provide backup for each other. The fact that the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 provide backup for each other means that the two light sources are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously.

[0044] The first light source 011 is connected to a group of first nodes 04 through a first carrier bearer network 02 and is configured to provide optical carriers to the group of first nodes 04 through the first carrier bearer network 02. The second light source 012 is connected to a group of first nodes 04 through a second carrier bearer network 03 and is configured to provide optical carriers to the group of first nodes 04 through the second carrier bearer network 03.

[0045] Since the light source is an active light-emitting component with high power consumption, the operating performance of the light source is easily affected by the environment and fluctuates. Therefore, the light source module is provided with two light sources operating in active / standby mode. As a result, the reliability of the light source module is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved. In addition, the two light sources can operate simultaneously and are connected to the first node through separate carrier bearer networks. Therefore, after one of the light sources fails, the other light source can continue to provide optical carriers to the first node. In the above process, there is no need to use an optical conversion switch to switch the light source used to provide optical carriers. In other words, no failover is required. This can avoid the interruption of optical carrier transmission caused by failover and further avoid the interruption of service optical signal transmission. In this way, it can be guaranteed that when one of the light sources fails, the first node and the second node can continue to maintain a normal communication state.

[0046] Optionally, both the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 may be single-wavelength light sources, wide-spectrum light sources, or multi-wavelength light sources. A single-wavelength light source can provide an optical carrier having a single wavelength. A wide-spectrum light source can provide an optical carrier whose bandwidth is greater than a threshold value. In other words, the optical carrier provided by the wide-spectrum light source has a wide band. A multi-wavelength light source can output a plurality of single-wavelength optical carriers in parallel.

[0047] Hereinafter, an optical communication system according to an embodiment of the present application will be described using an example in which both the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 are single-wavelength light sources. To avoid interference between optical carriers, the wavelengths of the optical carriers provided by the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 are different.

[0048] Please refer to FIG. 2. The light source module 01 further includes a first splitter 013 and a second splitter 014. The first light source 011 is connected to the first carrier bearer network 02 through the first splitter 013. The first splitter 013 is configured to split the optical carriers provided by the first light source 011 and separately transmit the split optical carriers to the respective first nodes 04 through the first carrier bearer network 02. The second light source 012 is connected to the second carrier bearer network 03 through the second splitter 014. The second splitter 014 is configured to split the optical carriers provided by the second light source 012 and separately transmit the split optical carriers to the respective first nodes 04 through the second carrier bearer network 03.

[0049] Both the first splitter 013 and the second splitter 014 can split the received optical carriers equally or unequally based on the optical power of the optical carriers required by the respective first nodes 04. For example, assuming that the optical communication system includes N first nodes 04 and the optical powers of the optical carriers required by the N first nodes 04 are equal, both the first splitter 013 and the second splitter 014 can equally split the received optical carriers into N optical carriers having equal optical powers. The N optical carriers can be separately transmitted to the N first nodes 04 through the carrier bearer network.

[0050] The splitter is a passive component, the cost of the splitter is low, and the costs of the single-wavelength light source and the wide-spectrum light source are also low. Therefore, by using a combination of a single-wavelength light source and a splitter to provide optical carriers to multiple first nodes, the cost of the light source module can be effectively reduced.

[0051] Optionally, as shown in FIG. 1, the optical communication system may further include a second service bearer network 07. The second service bearer network 07 and the first service bearer network 05 provide backup for each other. The fact that the second service bearer network 07 and the first service bearer network 05 provide backup for each other means that the two service bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously. In other words, the two service bearer networks provide hot backup for each other. A group of first nodes 04 are further connected to a group of second nodes 06 through the second service bearer network 07. Each first node 04 is further configured to transmit a service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes 06 through the second service bearer network 07.

[0052] Since the first node can be connected to the second node through two service bearer networks that provide backup for each other, when one of the service bearer networks fails, the first node can continue to transmit the service optical signal through the other service bearer network. In addition, in the above process, there is no need to switch the service bearer network used to transmit the service optical signal. In other words, no failover is required. Thereby, the interruption of the transmission of the service optical signal caused by the failover can be avoided. In this way, when a failure occurs in one of the service bearer networks, it can be guaranteed that the first node and the second node continue to maintain a normal communication state.

[0053] In the case of a scenario where the optical communication system includes two service bearer networks that provide backup for each other, as an optional implementation, as shown in FIG. 3, the TX module in each first node 04 may include a first optical path coupler 041, an electro-optic modulator 042, and an optical path separator 043.

[0054] The first optical path coupler 041 is separately connected to the first carrier bearer network 02, the second carrier bearer network 03, and the electro-optic modulator 042. The first optical path coupler 041 is configured to combine the optical carrier transmitted by the first carrier bearer network 02 and the optical carrier transmitted by the second carrier bearer network 03, and transmit the combined optical carrier to the electro-optic modulator 042.

[0055] The electro-optic modulator 042 is connected to the optical path separator 043. The electro-optic modulator 042 is configured to modulate the optical carrier transmitted by the first optical path coupler 041 based on the service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal, and transmit the service optical signal to the optical path separator 043.

[0056] The optical path separator 043 is further separately connected to the first service bearer network 05 and the second service bearer network 07. The optical path separator 043 is configured to separate the service optical signal and transmit the separated service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes 06 through the first service bearer network 05 and the second service bearer network 07.

[0057] The first optical path coupler 041 is a multiplexer or an optical combiner, and the optical path separator 043 is a demultiplexer. A multiplexer is a component that can multiplex optical signals having different wavelengths. An optical combiner is a component that can superimpose the optical powers of optical signals of a plurality of channels (having the same or different wavelengths or bands). A demultiplexer is a component that can separate optical signals having different wavelengths.

[0058] In this implementation, since the first node 04 combines the optical carriers transmitted by two carrier bearer networks using the first optical path coupler 041 and separates the service optical signal using the optical path separator 043, only one electro-optic modulator 042 needs to be arranged in the first node 04. In addition, both the first optical path coupler 041 and the optical path separator 043 are passive components and have low costs. Therefore, this implementation can effectively reduce the cost of the first node 04 and further reduce the cost of the optical communication system.

[0059] As another optional implementation, the TX module in each first node 04 may include a first electro-optic modulator and a second electro-optic modulator that provide backup for each other. The first electro-optic modulator is separately connected to the first carrier bearer network 02 and the first service bearer network 05. The first electro-optic modulator is configured to modulate the optical carrier transmitted by the first carrier bearer network 02 based on the service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal and transmit the service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes 06 through the first service bearer network 05. The second electro-optic modulator 042 is separately connected to the second carrier bearer network 03 and the second service bearer network 07. The second electro-optic modulator 042 is configured to modulate the optical carrier transmitted by the second carrier bearer network 03 based on the service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal and transmit the service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes 06 through the second service bearer network 07.

[0060] In this implementation, since the first node uses two electro-optic modulators to separately modulate the optical carriers transmitted by two carrier-bearing networks, when one of the electro-optic modulators fails, the other electro-optic modulator can continue to transmit service optical signals to the second node. In this way, the reliability of the operating first node 04 is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved. In addition, since the ideal operating points when the electro-optic modulators modulate optical carriers having different wavelengths are different, by using two electro-optic modulators, it can be guaranteed that each electro-optic modulator operates near the ideal operating point of the electro-optic modulator to modulate an optical carrier having a certain wavelength. Therefore, high modulation performance of the electro-optic modulator is guaranteed.

[0061] In the case of a scenario where the optical communication system includes two service-bearing networks that provide backup for each other, as an optional implementation, as shown in FIG. 4, the RX module in each second node 06 may include a second optical path coupler 061 and a photoelectric receiver 062.

[0062] The second optical path coupler 061 is separately connected to the first service-bearing network 05, the second service-bearing network 07, and the photoelectric receiver 062. The second optical path coupler 061 is configured to combine the service optical signal transmitted by the first service-bearing network 05 and the service optical signal transmitted by the second service-bearing network 07, and transmit the combined service optical signal to the photoelectric receiver 062. The photoelectric receiver 062 is configured to demodulate the service optical signal transmitted by the second optical path coupler 061. The second optical path coupler 061 may be a multiplexer or an optical combiner.

[0063] In this implementation, since the second node combines the service optical signals transmitted by two service bearer networks using the second optical path coupler, only one optical transceiver needs to be arranged at the second node. In this way, the cost of the second node is effectively reduced, and the cost of the optical communication system is further reduced. In addition, since the second optical path coupler is a passive component and has a low cost, this implementation can effectively reduce the cost of the second node and further reduce the cost of the optical communication system.

[0064] As another optional implementation, the RX module in each second node 06 may include a first optical transceiver and a second optical transceiver that provide backup for each other. The first optical transceiver is connected to the first service bearer network 05. The first optical transceiver is configured to demodulate the first service optical signal transmitted by the first service bearer network 05. The second optical transceiver is connected to the second service bearer network 07. The second optical transceiver is configured to demodulate the second service optical signal transmitted by the second service bearer network 07.

[0065] In this implementation, since the second node separately demodulates the service optical signals transmitted by two service bearer networks using two optical transceivers, when one of the optical transceivers fails, the other optical transceiver can continue to receive and demodulate the service optical signal. In this way, the reliability of the second node is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved. In addition, since the ideal operating points when the optical transceivers demodulate service optical signals with different wavelengths are different, by using two optical transceivers, it can be ensured that each optical transceiver operates near the ideal operating point of the optical transceiver to modulate a service optical signal with a certain wavelength. Therefore, high demodulation performance of the optical transceiver is guaranteed.

[0066] If the optical communication system does not include the second service bearer network 07, it will be understood that it is not necessary to arrange a second optical path coupler 061 for each second node 06, and it is not necessary to arrange two optical and electrical receivers that provide backup to each other. In other words, only one optical and electrical receiver needs to be arranged for the second node 06.

[0067] In the case of a scenario where the optical communication system does not include the second service bearer network 07, as a possible example, the TX module in each first node 04 may include a first optical path coupler 041 and an electro-optic modulator 042. The electro-optic modulator 042 is directly connected to the first service bearer network 05, and in order to obtain a service optical signal, based on the service electrical signal, modulates the optical carrier transmitted by the first optical path coupler 041, and is configured to transmit the service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes 06 through the first service bearer network 05. In other words, it is not necessary to arrange an optical path separator 043 for the first node 04.

[0068] As another possible example, the TX module in each first node 04 may include a first electro-optic modulator, a second electro-optic modulator, and a third optical path coupler. The third optical path coupler is separately connected to the two electro-optic modulators and the first service bearer network 05, combines the service optical signals generated by the two electro-optic modulators, and is configured to transmit the combined service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes 06 through the first service bearer network 05. The third optical path coupler may be a multiplexer or an optical combiner.

[0069] The above has been described using an example in which the first node 04 is a signal transmission node and the second node 06 is a signal reception node. It should be understood that a TX module as shown in FIG. 3 may be arranged in the second node 06, or an RX module as shown in FIG. 4 may be arranged in the first node 04. Correspondingly, the second node 06 may function as a signal transmission node to transmit a service optical signal to the first node 04, and the first node 04 may function as a signal reception node to receive and demodulate the service optical signal. In addition, the light source module that provides an optical carrier to the second node 06 may be the light source module 01, or may be another light source module independent of the light source module 01.

[0070] For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the light source module 01 can further separately provide an optical carrier to the TX module in the second node 06 through the first carrier bearer network 02 and the second carrier bearer network 03. The TX module of the second node 06 can further separately transmit a service optical signal to the RX module of the first node 04 through the first service bearer network 05 and the second service bearer network 07.

[0071] Optionally, as shown in FIG. 6, the first service bearer network 05 may be a star network. The star network can realize communication between any two nodes within a group of first nodes 04 and within a group of second nodes 06. Correspondingly, please refer to FIG. 6. Each node in the optical communication system may include a TX module and an RX module. In other words, each node has a signal transmission function and a signal reception function.

[0072] The star network can realize multipoint-to-multipoint (MP2MP) communication, so the flexibility and efficiency of inter-node communication are effectively improved. In addition, the failure of a single node in the star network does not affect the normal communication between other nodes, and the reliability of inter-node communication in the star network is high.

[0073] Continue to refer to FIG. 6. The first service bearer network 05 may include a first optical waveguide 051, a service distributor 052, and a second optical waveguide 053. Both the first optical waveguide 051 and the second optical waveguide 053 are separately connected to a group of first nodes 04, a group of second nodes 06, and the service distributor 052. The first optical waveguide 051 is separately connected to the TX modules in each node, and the second optical waveguide 053 is separately connected to the RX modules in each node. The service distributor 052 is configured to receive a service optical signal from at least one of a group of first nodes 04 and a group of second nodes 06 through the first optical waveguide 051, combine the received service optical signals, split the combined service optical signals, and separately transmit the split service optical signals to a group of first nodes 04 and a group of second nodes 06 through the second optical waveguide 053.

[0074] Optionally, the service distributor 052 may be a star coupler. As shown in FIG. 7, the input end of the star coupler is connected to the first optical waveguide 051, and the output end is connected to the second optical waveguide 053. The star coupler combines at least one channel of service optical signals received by the input end of the star coupler (in other words, superimposes the powers of at least one channel of service optical signals), splits the combined service optical signals evenly or unevenly, and can transmit the split service optical signals to each node through the second optical waveguide 053. In other words, the service distributor 052 can transmit service optical signals by broadcast.

[0075] For example, assuming that the optical communication system includes a total of M (M is an integer greater than 1) nodes, the star coupler combines the received M-channel service optical signals, and then evenly divides the combined service optical signals into M-channel service optical signals with equal power, and can transmit the M-channel service optical signals to the M nodes through the second optical waveguide 053.

[0076] In order for a node that receives a service optical signal to be able to identify the node that is the source of the service optical signal, the node that transmits the service optical signal can generate the service optical signal using technologies such as code division multiple access (CDMA) or frequency division multiple access (FDMA). The node that receives the service optical signal can identify the transmitting node of the service optical signal based on the codeword or the frequency of the subcarrier in the service optical signal in order to determine whether the service optical signal needs to be demodulated. For example, if a certain node identifies that the service optical signal received by that node is the service optical signal transmitted by that node, then that service optical signal does not need to be demodulated.

[0077] It will be understood that the topology type of the first service bearer network 05 may be a star topology, or may be another topology type. For example, the topology type of the first service bearer network 05 may be a ring.

[0078] When the optical communication system further includes a second service bearer network 07, it will be further understood that the structure of the second service bearer network 07 is the same as that of the first service bearer network 05. For example, assuming that both of the two service bearer networks are star networks, the TX module of each node in the optical communication system may be separately connected to the first optical waveguide 051 in the two service bearer networks, and the RX module in each node may be separately connected to the second optical waveguide 053 in the two service bearer networks. Hereinafter, an optical communication system according to an embodiment of the present application will be described using an example in which both the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 are wide-spectrum light sources. The wide-spectrum light source may be a light-emitting diode (LED), a superluminescent diode (SLD), or the like. Since the wide-spectrum light source is not a coherent light source, the bands of the optical carriers provided by the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 may be the same or different.

[0079] Please refer to FIG. 2. The light source module 01 further includes a first splitter 013 and a second splitter 014. For the connection and operating principle of the first splitter 013 and the second splitter 014, please refer to the relevant description of the above-described embodiment of the single-wavelength light source. Details will not be described again here.

[0080] Optionally, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the optical communication system according to an embodiment of the present application may further include a second service bearer network 07 that provides backup for each other with the first service bearer network 05. For the connection and operating principle of the second service bearer network 07, please refer to the relevant description of the above-described embodiment of the single-wavelength light source. Details will not be described again here.

[0081] In the case of a scenario where an optical communication system includes two service bearer networks that provide backup for each other, as an optional implementation, as shown in FIG. 3, the TX module in each first node 04 may include a first optical path coupler 041, an electro-optical modulator 042, and an optical path separator 043. For the connection and operating principles of the first optical path coupler 041, the electro-optical modulator 042, and the optical path separator 043, refer to the relevant descriptions of the above-described single-wavelength light source embodiments. Details will not be described again here.

[0082] It should be understood that when the bands of the optical carriers provided by the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 are different, the first optical path coupler 041 is a multiplexer or an optical combiner, and the optical path separator 043 is a demultiplexer. When the bands of the optical carriers provided by the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 are the same, the first optical path coupler 041 is an optical combiner, and the optical path separator 043 is a splitter.

[0083] As another optional implementation, the TX module in each first node 04 may include a first electro-optical modulator and a second electro-optical modulator that provide backup for each other. For the connection and operating principles of the two electro-optical modulators, refer to the relevant descriptions of the above-described single-wavelength light source embodiments. Details will not be described again here.

[0084] In the case of a scenario where an optical communication system includes two service bearer networks that provide backup for each other, as an optional implementation, as shown in FIG. 4, the RX module in each second node 06 may include a second optical path coupler 061 and a photoelectric receiver 062. For the connection and operating principles of the second optical path coupler 061 and the photoelectric receiver 062, refer to the relevant descriptions of the above-described single-wavelength light source embodiments. Details will not be described again here.

[0085] When the bands of the optical carriers provided by the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 are different, it should be understood that the second optical path coupler 061 is a multiplexer or an optical combiner. When the bands of the optical carriers provided by the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 are the same, the second optical path coupler 061 is an optical combiner.

[0086] As another optional implementation, the RX modules in each second node 06 may include a first photoelectric receiver and a second photoelectric receiver that provide backup for each other. For the connection and operating principles of the two photoelectric receivers, refer to the relevant descriptions in the above-mentioned single-wavelength light source embodiment. Details will not be described again here.

[0087] Optionally, as shown in FIG. 6, the first service bearer network 05 may be a star network. This star network includes a first optical waveguide 051, a service distributor 052, and a second optical waveguide 053. The service distributor 052 may be a star coupler. For the structures and operating principles of the first optical waveguide 051, the service distributor 052, and the second optical waveguide 053, refer to the relevant descriptions in the above-mentioned single-wavelength light source embodiment. Details will not be described again here. Hereinafter, an optical communication system according to the present embodiment of the present application will be described using an example in which both the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 are multi-wavelength light sources.

[0088] The first light source 011 within the light source module 01 is directly connected to the first carrier bearer network 02, and the first carrier bearer network 02 can output a plurality of single-wavelength optical carriers in parallel. The first carrier bearer network 02 can transmit an optical carrier having a certain wavelength to each first node 04. The second light source 012 is directly connected to the second carrier bearer network 03, and the second carrier bearer network 03 can output a plurality of single-wavelength optical carriers in parallel. The second carrier bearer network 03 can transmit an optical carrier having a certain wavelength to each first node 04. To avoid interference between optical carriers, the wavelengths of the optical carriers transmitted to the same first node 04 by the first carrier bearer network 02 and the second carrier bearer network 03 are different.

[0089] The multi-wavelength light source can output a plurality of single-wavelength optical carriers in parallel, and the optical carriers of each wavelength can be transmitted to one first node without being split. Therefore, it can be guaranteed that the power of the optical carriers received by the first node is high. Therefore, it is guaranteed that the transmission performance of the service optical signal obtained by modulating the optical carriers is better.

[0090] Optionally, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the optical communication system may further include a first service bearer network 05 and a second service bearer network 07 that provide backup for each other. For the connection and operating principle of the second service bearer network 07, please refer to the related description of the above-mentioned single-wavelength light source embodiment. Details will not be described again here.

[0091] For the scenario where the optical communication system includes two service bearer networks that provide backup for each other, the structure and operating principle of the TX module in the first node 04, and the structure and operating principle of the RX module in the second node 06, please refer to the related description of the above-mentioned single-wavelength light source embodiment. Details will not be described again here.

[0092] Optionally, as shown in FIG. 6, the first service bearer network 05 may be a star network. This star network may include a first optical waveguide 051, a service distributor 052, and a second optical waveguide 053. For the connection of the first optical waveguide 051, the service distributor 052, and the second optical waveguide 053, refer to the relevant description of the above-described single-wavelength light source embodiment. Details will not be described again here.

[0093] Refer to FIG. 8. The service distributor 052 may include an AWG 0521 and a third splitter 0522. Both ends of the AWG 0521 are respectively connected to the first optical waveguide 051 and the input end of the third splitter 0522. The output end of the third splitter 0522 is connected to the second optical waveguide 053. The AWG 0521 is configured to multiplex the received service optical signals and transmit the multiplexed service optical signals to the third splitter 0522. The third splitter 0522 is configured to split the multiplexed service optical signals and separately transmit the split service optical signals to a group of first nodes 04 and a group of second nodes 06 through the second optical waveguide 053.

[0094] Optionally, in a scenario where both the first light source 011 and the second light source 012 are multi-wavelength light sources, the service distributor 052 may be a star coupler. For the operating principle of the star coupler, refer to the relevant description of the above-described single-wavelength light source embodiment. Details will not be described again here.

[0095] In short, the present embodiment of the present application provides an optical communication system. The light source module in this optical communication system can be separately connected to a group of first nodes through two carrier bearer networks. Therefore, even if one of the carrier bearer networks fails, the other carrier bearer network can continue to transmit optical carriers. Thus, the reliability of optical carrier transmission is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved. In addition, the two carrier bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously. Therefore, after one of the carrier bearer networks fails, no failover is required. Thereby, the interruption of optical carrier transmission caused by failover can be avoided, and the interruption of service optical signal transmission can be further avoided.

[0096] In addition, in the optical communication system according to the present embodiment of the present application, the light source module may include two light sources that provide backup for each other, and another service bearer network for backup may exist. In this way, a thorough backup of the optical communication system is realized, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved, so that the optical communication system can be used in scenarios where high communication reliability is required.

[0097] The present embodiment of the present application further provides another optical communication system. This optical communication system includes a light source module 01, a first carrier bearer network 02, a group of first nodes 04, a first service bearer network 05, a second service bearer network 07, and a group of second nodes 06. The first service bearer network 05 and the second service bearer network 07 provide backup for each other.

[0098] The light source module 01 is connected to a group of first nodes 04 through the first carrier bearer network 02, and the light source module 01 is configured to separately transmit optical carriers to the group of first nodes 04 through the first carrier bearer network 02. The group of first nodes 04 are separately connected to a group of second nodes 06 through the first service bearer network 05 and the second service bearer network 07. Each first node 04 is configured to modulate an optical carrier based on a service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal, and separately transmit the service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes 06 through the first service bearer network 05 and the second service bearer network 07.

[0099] It should be understood that for the structure and operating principle of the light source module 01 in the optical communication system, the structure and operating principle of the first node 04, the structure and operating principle of the second node 06, and the structure and operating principle of each service bearer network, reference should be made to the relevant descriptions in the foregoing embodiments. Details will not be described again here.

[0100] Since the first node can separately transmit service optical signals to the second node through two service bearer networks, even if one of the service bearer networks fails, the other service bearer network can continue to transmit service optical signals. Therefore, the reliability of service optical signal transmission is effectively improved, and the reliability of the optical communication system is further improved. In addition, since the two service bearer networks are independent of each other and can operate simultaneously, no failover is required after one of the service bearer networks fails. Thereby, the interruption of service optical signal transmission caused by failover can be avoided. The present embodiment of the present application further provides a vehicle. This vehicle may be an intelligent vehicle having an autonomous driving function. As shown in FIG. 9, the vehicle includes an in-vehicle controller 10, an in-vehicle sensor 20, an in-vehicle actuator 30, and an optical communication system 00 according to the foregoing embodiment. For the structure of the optical communication system 00, refer to FIGS. 1 to 6. In addition, in order to reduce the probability that two light sources fail simultaneously and improve the reliability of the light source module 01, the two light sources included in the light source module 01 in the optical communication system may be arranged at various positions of the vehicle.

[0101] The in-vehicle sensor 20 is connected to the first node 04 in the optical communication system 00 and is configured to provide a service electrical signal to the first node 04. The in-vehicle controller 10 is connected to the second node 06 in the optical communication system 00 and is configured to receive a service electrical signal transmitted by the second node 06. In other words, the optical communication system 00 can realize signal exchange between the in-vehicle controller 10 and the in-vehicle sensor 20. Alternatively, the in-vehicle controller 10 is connected to the first node 04 in the optical communication system 00 and is configured to provide a service electrical signal to the first node 04. The in-vehicle actuator 30 is connected to the second node 06 in the optical communication system 00 and is configured to receive a service electrical signal transmitted by the second node 06. In other words, the optical communication system 00 can realize signal exchange between the in-vehicle controller 10 and the in-vehicle actuator 30.

[0102] For example, the optical communication system 00 can transmit the data collected by the in-vehicle sensor 20 to the in-vehicle controller 10 as a service electrical signal. The in-vehicle controller 10 can analyze and process the data collected by the in-vehicle sensor 20, and transmit commands or data to the in-vehicle actuator 30 through the optical communication system 00.

[0103] It will be understood that each node in the optical communication system 00 and the in-vehicle components (such as in-vehicle controllers, in-vehicle sensors, in-vehicle actuators, etc.) connected to the nodes may be independently arranged or integrally arranged. For example, the first node 04 may be integrated into the in-vehicle controller 10 or the in-vehicle sensor 20, and the second node 06 may be integrated into the in-vehicle controller 10 or the in-vehicle actuator 30.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 9, it will be further understood that the vehicle may include a plurality of in-vehicle sensors 20, a plurality of in-vehicle actuators 30, and a plurality of in-vehicle controllers 10. Each in-vehicle sensor 20, each in-vehicle actuator 30, and each in-vehicle controller 10 can be connected to a node in the optical communication system 00 and can communicate with components connected to another node through the optical communication system 00. For example, each node in the optical communication system 00 has a signal transmission function and a signal reception function. Correspondingly, the in-vehicle controller 10 can further transmit a signal to the in-vehicle sensor 20 through the optical communication system 00, and can receive the signal transmitted by the in-vehicle actuator 30 through the optical communication system 00.

[0105] Optionally, the plurality of in-vehicle sensors 20 may include a camera, a millimeter-wave radar, a lidar, and the like. The plurality of in-vehicle actuators 30 may include a pedal controller, an in-vehicle display, an in-vehicle air conditioner, a light controller, and the like. The in-vehicle display may include a central control display of the vehicle, a head-up display (HUD), and the like. The present embodiment of the present application further provides an industrial optical network. As shown in FIG. 10, the industrial optical network includes an industrial controller 40, an industrial sensor 50, an industrial actuator 60, and the optical communication system 00 according to the foregoing embodiment. For the structure of the optical communication system 00, refer to FIGS. 1 to 6. In addition, in order to reduce the probability that two light sources fail simultaneously and improve the reliability of the light source module 01, the two light sources included in the light source module 01 in the optical communication system may be arranged at various positions in the industrial optical network.

[0106] The industrial sensor 50 is connected to the first node 04 in the optical communication system 00 and is configured to provide a service electrical signal to the first node 04. The industrial controller 40 is connected to the second node 06 in the optical communication system 00 and is configured to receive the service electrical signal transmitted by the second node 06. In other words, the optical communication system 00 can realize signal exchange between the industrial controller 40 and the industrial sensor 50. Alternatively, the industrial controller 40 is connected to the first node 04 in the optical communication system 00 and is configured to provide a service electrical signal to the first node 04. The industrial actuator 60 is connected to the second node 06 in the optical communication system 00 and is configured to receive the service electrical signal transmitted by the second node 06. In other words, the optical communication system 00 can realize signal exchange between the industrial controller 40 and the industrial actuator 60.

[0107] For example, the optical communication system 00 can transmit the data collected by the industrial sensor 50 to the industrial controller 40 as a service electrical signal. The industrial controller 40 can analyze and process the data collected by the industrial sensor 50 and transmit commands or data to the industrial actuator 60 through the optical communication system 00.

[0108] It will be understood that each node within the optical communication system 00 and the industrial components connected to the node (e.g., industrial controller, industrial sensor, or industrial actuator) may be arranged independently or integrally. For example, the first node 04 may be integrated into the industrial controller 40 or the industrial sensor 50, and the second node 06 may be integrated into the industrial controller 40 or the industrial actuator 60.

[0109] It will be further understood that the industrial optical network may include a plurality of industrial sensors 50, a plurality of industrial actuators 60, and a plurality of industrial controllers 40. Each industrial sensor 50, each industrial actuator 60, and each industrial controller 40 can be connected to a node within the optical communication system 00 and communicate with components connected to another node through the optical communication system 00. For example, each node within the optical communication system 00 has a signal transmission function and a signal reception function. Correspondingly, the industrial controller 40 can further transmit a signal to the industrial sensor 50 through the optical communication system 00 and receive a signal transmitted by the industrial actuator 60 through the optical communication system.

[0110] Optionally, the industrial optical network may be a security monitoring network in industrial scenarios that require high security, such as the mining and coal mining industries. Alternatively, the industrial optical network may be an article scheduling network in industrial scenarios such as logistics and ports. Alternatively, the industrial optical network may be an autonomous driving network in the manufacturing industry such as vehicles and mobile terminals, for example, a network for automatic product assembly or sorting. The plurality of industrial sensors 50 may include cameras, temperature and humidity sensors, gas sensors, and the like. The plurality of industrial actuators 60 may include mechanical arms, industrial displays, temperature and humidity controllers, and the like.

[0111] Since the optical communication system has the characteristics of high data transmission speed and large data transmission volume, it will be further understood that in a vehicle or an industrial optical network, the optical communication system can be configured to transmit data containing a large amount of data, that is, high-traffic data. For example, the optical communication system may be configured to transmit data collected by cameras or radars, or may be configured to transmit image data to a display.

[0112] All of the carrier bearer network, service bearer network, and splitter in the optical communication system are passive components. Passive components have characteristics such as not consuming power, not generating heat, strong environmental adaptability, and high operating reliability. Therefore, passive components usually do not need to be backed up in a remote communication network. However, in a vehicle or an industrial optical network, each component in the optical communication system needs to operate in a harsh environment where long-term vibration, a large temperature change range, and mechanical collisions may occur. For this reason, the requirements for the reliability of each component in the optical communication system are high.

[0113] In the optical communication system according to the present embodiment of the present application, two carrier bearer networks operating in active / standby mode are used, and there may be another light source or another service bearer network for backup. Therefore, the reliability of the entire optical communication system is effectively improved. When components within the optical communication system are abnormal, another backup component can continue to operate, so communication interruption between nodes can be avoided. In other words, components connected to the nodes (for example, in-vehicle processors and in-vehicle sensors) are unaware of the failure. From the above analysis, it can be seen that the optical communication system according to the present embodiment of the present application can meet the reliability requirements of vehicle and industrial optical networks.

[0114] For example, assuming that due to an accidental collision, fiber breakage or light source failure occurs in the bearer network within the vehicle, the backup component can maintain a normal operating state, so communication interruption between in-vehicle components can be avoided, and therefore, it is guaranteed that the vehicle maintains a normal operating state.

[0115] Optionally, in vehicle and industrial optical networks, the distance between the controller, sensor, and actuator is usually small. Therefore, to ensure the flexibility and reliability of communication between components, the service bearer network within the optical communication system may be a star network.

[0116] It should be understood that in addition to vehicle and industrial optical networks, the optical communication system provided according to the present embodiment of the present application can be further used in another scenario where high communication reliability is required, for example, in fields such as aerospace and finance.

[0117] The term "at least any one of" in the present application means one or more, and the term "a plurality of" in the present application means two or more. For example, a plurality of nodes means two or more nodes.

[0118] The foregoing description is merely an optional implementation of this application, but the protection scope of this application is not limited thereto. Any equivalent modifications or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application shall fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application shall comply with the protection scope of the claims.

Description of Reference Signs

[0119] 01 Light source module 02 First carrier bearer network 03 Second carrier bearer network 04 First node 05 First service bearer network 06 Second node 011 First light source 012 Second light source 013 First splitter 014 Second splitter 07 Second service bearer network 041 First optical path coupler 042 Electro-optic modulator 043 Optical path separator 061 Second optical path coupler 062 Photoelectric receiver 051 First optical waveguide 052 Service distributor 053 Second optical waveguide 0521 AWG 0522 Third splitter 10 Vehicle-mounted controller 20 Vehicle-mounted sensor 30 Vehicle-mounted actuator 00 Optical communication system 40 Industrial controller 50 Industrial sensor 60 Industrial actuator

Claims

1. An optical communication system, wherein the optical communication system includes a light source module, a first carrier bearer network, a second carrier bearer network, a group of first nodes, a first service bearer network, a group of second nodes, and a second service bearer network; the first carrier bearer network and the second carrier bearer network provide backup for each other; the second service bearer network and the first service bearer network provide backup for each other, the light source module is separately connected to the group of first nodes through the first carrier bearer network and the second carrier bearer network, and the light source module is configured to separately transmit optical carriers to the group of first nodes through the first carrier bearer network and the second carrier bearer network, the group of first nodes is connected to the group of second nodes through the first service bearer network, and each first node is configured to modulate the optical carrier based on a service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal and transmit the service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the first service bearer network. An optical communication system.

2. the light source module includes a first light source and a second light source that provide backup for each other, the first light source is connected to the group of first nodes through the first carrier bearer network, the second light source is connected to the group of first nodes through the second carrier bearer network. The optical communication system according to claim 1.

3. both the first light source and the second light source are single-wavelength light sources or wide-spectrum light sources, and the light source module further includes a first splitter and a second splitter, The first light source is connected to the first carrier bearer network through the first splitter. The first splitter is configured to split the optical carriers provided by the first light source and separately transmit the split optical carriers to respective first nodes through the first carrier bearer network. The second light source is connected to the second carrier bearer network through the second splitter. The second splitter is configured to split the optical carriers provided by the second light source and separately transmit the split optical carriers to respective first nodes through the second carrier bearer network. The optical communication system according to claim 2.

4. Both the first light source and the second light source are multi-wavelength light sources. The first light source is configured to output a plurality of single-wavelength optical carriers in parallel to the first carrier bearer network. The second light source is configured to output a plurality of single-wavelength optical carriers in parallel to the second carrier bearer network. The optical communication system according to claim 2.

5. Each first node includes a first optical path coupler and an electro-optic modulator. The first optical path coupler is separately connected to the first carrier bearer network, the second carrier bearer network, and the electro-optic modulator. The first optical path coupler is configured to combine the optical carriers transmitted by the first carrier bearer network and the optical carriers transmitted by the second carrier bearer network and transmit the combined optical carriers to the electro-optic modulator. The electro-optic modulator is connected to the first service bearer network. The electro-optic modulator is configured to modulate the optical carriers transmitted by the first optical path coupler based on the service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal and transmit the service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the first service bearer network. The optical communication system according to claim 1. **Claim 6**: The group of first nodes is further connected to the group of second nodes through the second service bearer network, and each first node is further configured to transmit the service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the second service bearer network. The optical communication system according to claim 1. **Claim 7** Each first node includes a first optical path coupler, an electro-optic modulator, and an optical path separator. The first optical path coupler is separately connected to the first carrier bearer network, the second carrier bearer network, and the electro-optic modulator. The first optical path coupler is configured to combine the optical carriers transmitted by the first carrier bearer network and the optical carriers transmitted by the second carrier bearer network, and transmit the combined optical carriers to the electro-optic modulator. The electro-optic modulator is connected to the optical path separator. The electro-optic modulator is configured to modulate the optical carriers transmitted by the first optical path coupler based on the service electrical signal to obtain a service optical signal, and transmit the service optical signal to the optical path separator. The optical path separator is further separately connected to the first service bearer network and the second service bearer network. The optical path separator is configured to separate the service optical signal and separately transmit the separated service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the first service bearer network and the second service bearer network. The optical communication system according to claim 6. **Claim 8** Each first node includes a first electro-optic modulator and a second electro-optic modulator that provide backup for each other. The first electro-optic modulator is separately connected to the first carrier bearer network and the first service bearer network, and the first electro-optic modulator modulates an optical carrier transmitted by the first carrier bearer network based on the service electrical signal in order to obtain a service optical signal, and transmits the modulated service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the first service bearer network. The second electro-optic modulator is separately connected to the second carrier bearer network and the second service bearer network, and the second electro-optic modulator modulates an optical carrier transmitted by the second carrier bearer network based on the service electrical signal in order to obtain a service optical signal, and transmits the modulated service optical signal to at least one of the second nodes through the second service bearer network. The optical communication system according to claim 6.

9. Each second node includes a second optical path coupler and a photoelectric receiver. The second optical path coupler is separately connected to the first service bearer network, the second service bearer network, and the photoelectric receiver. The second optical path coupler combines a service optical signal transmitted by the first service bearer network and a service optical signal transmitted by the second service bearer network, and is configured to transmit the combined service optical signal to the photoelectric receiver. The photoelectric receiver is configured to demodulate the service optical signal transmitted by the second optical path coupler. The optical communication system according to claim 6.

10. Each second node includes a first photoelectric receiver and a second photoelectric receiver that provide backup for each other. The first photoelectric receiver is connected to the first service bearer network, and the first photoelectric receiver is configured to demodulate a first service optical signal transmitted by the first service bearer network. The second photoelectric receiver is connected to the second service bearer network, and the second photoelectric receiver is configured to demodulate a second service optical signal transmitted by the second service bearer network. The optical communication system according to claim 6.

11. The first service bearer network is a star network. The optical communication system according to claim 1.

12. The first service bearer network includes a first optical waveguide, a service distributor, and a second optical waveguide. Both the first optical waveguide and the second optical waveguide are separately connected to the group of first nodes, the group of second nodes, and the service distributor. The service distributor is configured to receive a service optical signal from at least one of the group of first nodes and the group of second nodes through the first optical waveguide, combine the received service optical signals, split the combined service optical signals, and separately transmit the split service optical signals to the group of first nodes and the group of second nodes through the second optical waveguide. The optical communication system according to claim 11.

13. The service distributor is a star coupler, or the service distributor includes an arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) and a third splitter. One end of the AWG is connected to the first optical waveguide, the other end of the AWG is connected to the input end of the third splitter, and the output end of the third splitter is connected to the second optical waveguide. The optical communication system according to claim 12.

14. A vehicle, the vehicle includes an in-vehicle controller, an in-vehicle sensor, an in-vehicle actuator, and the optical communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 13. The in-vehicle sensor is connected to a first node in the optical communication system and is configured to provide a service electrical signal to the first node. The in-vehicle controller is connected to a second node in the optical communication system and is configured to receive the service electrical signal transmitted by the second node, or The in-vehicle controller is connected to a first node in the optical communication system and is configured to provide a service electrical signal to the first node. The in-vehicle actuator is connected to a second node in the optical communication system and is configured to receive the service electrical signal transmitted by the second node, a vehicle.

15. An industrial optical network, the industrial optical network includes an industrial controller, an industrial sensor, an industrial actuator, and the optical communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, The industrial sensor is connected to a first node in the optical communication system and is configured to provide a service electrical signal to the first node. The industrial controller is connected to a second node in the optical communication system and is configured to receive the service electrical signal transmitted by the second node, or The industrial controller is connected to a first node in the optical communication system and is configured to provide a service electrical signal to the first node. The industrial actuator is connected to a second node in the optical communication system and is configured to receive the service electrical signal transmitted by the second node, an industrial optical network.

Images