Arbitrary Wavelocking Optical Transmitter Using Embedded Data Sequences
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) optical communication systems face constraints in aligning channels to arbitrary wavelengths, limiting spectral efficiency and precision in integrated optical systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an optical system that uses embedded data sequences to generate optical power at a fixed frequency offset, allowing for arbitrary wavelocking of optical transmitters, enabling precise alignment of multiple channels to any arbitrary wavelength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If channels are aligned to standardized ITU frequency grid, then system compatibility is improved, but wavelength alignment precision to arbitrary frequencies is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing optimal data sequences in a lookup table before operation. The controller queries this pre-prepared table based on the desired wavelength and modulation format, retrieving the appropriate data sequence without real-time calculation. This resolves the contradiction by enabling precise arbitrary wavelength alignment through pre-computed solutions while maintaining system compatibility through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by using embedded data sequences within the optical signal itself to enable wavelength measurement and alignment. The data sequences are self-contained reference signals that allow the system to automatically determine and lock onto the correct wavelength without external calibration equipment, achieving both precision and adaptability.
2Productivity
If arbitrary wavelength alignment is enabled, then spectral efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single controller that handles multiple functions: wavelength selection, data sequence determination, modulation format selection, and wavelength locking. The same embedded data sequences serve both as modulation data and as reference signals for wavelength measurement. This multi-functionality achieves arbitrary wavelength alignment and high spectral efficiency without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the embedded data sequence parameters based on the desired wavelength and modulation format. Rather than changing the physical hardware configuration, the system achieves arbitrary wavelength alignment by changing the electrical parameters of the modulation signal, specifically the embedded data sequence characteristics, which simplifies the overall system architecture.
3Measurement precision
If embedded data sequences are used for wavelocking, then wavelength alignment precision is improved, but signal processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by pre-calculating and storing the optimal embedded data sequences in a lookup table before operation. The sequences are determined in advance for various wavelength and modulation format combinations. During operation, the controller simply queries the table and retrieves the appropriate pre-computed sequence, avoiding complex real-time calculations while achieving precise wavelength alignment through the embedded reference signals.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system includes an optical transmitter and a controller that determines a particular wavelength for a channel of the optical transmitter. The controller causes the optical transmitter to transmit a first optical signal with a first data sequence that is determined based on the particular wavelength, and determines a first optical power that is generated based on the first optical signal and the first data sequence. The controller causes the optical transmitter to transmit a second optical signal with a second data sequence that is determined based on the particular wavelength, and determines a second optical power that is generated based on the second optical signal and the second data sequence. The controller calculates a power difference between the first optical power and the second optical power, and causes the particular wavelength for the channel to be modified based on the calculated power difference.