Adjustable Optical Device Array for Versatile Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional parallel multichannel array implementations with fixed wavelength lasers lack versatility, requiring numerous variants to meet different reach and environmental requirements, leading to increased costs and complexity in data transmission systems.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable array of tunable lasers with a predefined nonequivalent relationship between optical light outputs, allowing for flexible frequency adjustment while maintaining a predefined relationship, reducing the number of variants needed and minimizing the number of contacts and power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed wavelength lasers are used in parallel multichannel arrays, then the implementation is simple and stable, but the versatility is limited and numerous variants are required to meet different reach and environmental requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing tunable lasers that can dynamically adjust their output wavelengths. Each laser in the array is equipped with tuning mechanisms (such as temperature control and current tuning) that allow the wavelength to be adjusted within a range, enabling a single array design to serve multiple ITU grids and reach requirements without requiring multiple fixed-wavelength variants.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing the optical parameters (wavelength, frequency) of the lasers to be changed within certain ranges. The tunable lasers can operate across a wavelength range (e.g., C-band or L-band) and be tuned to specific ITU grid channels as needed, transforming a static fixed-wavelength system into a dynamic adjustable-wavelength system that reduces the number of variants required.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple variants of fixed wavelength arrays are produced to meet different requirements, then the adaptability increases, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single array architecture that can perform multiple functions across different ITU grids and reach scenarios. The tunable lasers can be configured to operate on various ITU grids (50GHz, 100GHz spacing) and adjust wavelengths to match different channel plans, making one array design universally applicable rather than requiring separate fixed-wavelength variants for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic tuning capability allows the same manufactured array to be adapted to different ITU grids and reach requirements through software control and physical tuning mechanisms, eliminating the need to manufacture multiple static variants and thereby reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Device complexity
If the array is designed to be adjustable and versatile, then the number of variants is reduced, but the device complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the array with defined wavelength relationships between adjacent lasers (e.g., fixed frequency spacing or ITU grid alignment). During setup, the system performs preliminary characterization to identify the specific wavelength relationships, then uses this information to automatically configure the array for the desired ITU grid and channel plan, reducing the complexity of real-time control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system characterizes the actual wavelength outputs of the tunable lasers and uses this feedback information to adjust and optimize the wavelength relationships. This feedback loop enables automatic configuration and maintains accurate ITU grid alignment, simplifying operation despite the adjustability of the system.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adjustable array provides versatility and flexibility in data transmission systems, reducing the number of variants required, minimizing size and power consumption, and simplifying setup and control, while maintaining high data transmission rates.
Implementation Method 1
each of the plurality of tunable lasers includes a corresponding front grating tuning section and at least one corresponding rear grating tuning section
Data Source
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AI summary
An adjustable array includes a plurality of optical devices. Each adjustable array device has an optical light output therefrom and is configured whereby the corresponding optical lights of the plurality of optical devices have a predefined nonequivalent relationship relative to one another with respect to an output parameter. In response to a drive signal, the plurality of optical devices are further configured to adjust the corresponding optical lights with respect to the output parameter while substantially maintaining the predefined nonequivalent relationship.