Band Blocker for Mixed Channel Spacing in DWDM
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wavelength blockers in optical telecommunication networks are inadequate for providing small channel spacing, such as 25 GHz, and are not scalable to mixed channel spacing configurations, leading to inefficiencies and increased complexity, especially in DWDM systems where different channel spacings are required.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for band blockers that separate input signals into multiple bands with identical channel spacing, using a band splitting module, switches, and a band recombining module, allowing for efficient utilization of wavelengths at different channel spacings, including as low as 25 GHz, through the use of variable optical attenuators and filter-based configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional wavelength blockers are used, then the system can maintain simple structure, but it cannot provide small channel spacing (25 GHz) and is not scalable to mixed channel spacing configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the wavelength spectrum into multiple bands, where each band contains a predetermined number of channels with identical channel spacing. This segmentation allows the system to handle different channel spacings (25 GHz, 50 GHz, 100 GHz) separately, enabling adaptability to mixed spacing configurations while keeping each individual band's processing simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamic control mechanisms including variable optical attenuators (VOAs) and switches that can be controlled by processors. These dynamic elements allow the system to adapt to different channel spacing configurations by selectively activating appropriate bands and adjusting attenuation levels, providing versatility without requiring complete system redesign.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional wavelength blockers are used, then the device can be cost-effective, but it cannot support ultra-narrow channel spacing and mixed spacing configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a universal blocker structure that can handle multiple channel spacing configurations (25 GHz, 50 GHz, 100 GHz) through a single design framework. By organizing wavelengths into bands with identical spacing within each band and using programmable control, the same basic structure serves multiple spacing requirements, reducing the need for separate dedicated blockers for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes variable optical attenuators with adjustable attenuation levels that can be dynamically changed based on the required channel spacing configuration. This parameter adjustment capability allows the same physical hardware to adapt to different manufacturing and operational requirements without requiring complete redesign, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving versatility.
3Ease of operation
If conventional wavelength blockers are used, then the system structure remains simple, but it increases complexity when handling mixed channel spacing in DWDM systems
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the complex task of handling mixed channel spacing into separate manageable segments. Each band is dedicated to a specific channel spacing (e.g., 25 GHz band, 50 GHz band), and the system operates by selectively activating the appropriate bands. This segmentation simplifies operation because each band can be managed independently using standardized procedures, avoiding the complexity of handling all spacing types simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces programmable switches and variable optical attenuators as intermediary control elements between the wavelength division multiplexing stage and the final output. These intermediaries act as mediators that translate high-level spacing requirements into specific band activations and attenuation settings, simplifying the overall system configuration while maintaining operational simplicity.
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
Enables efficient wavelength utilization in optical transport systems with ultra-narrow and mixed channel spacings, providing a scalable, cost-effective solution for DWDM systems, compatible with existing technology, and supporting higher data rates with improved performance and reduced complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a band splitting module configured to separate the input signal into a plurality of bands
Implementation Method 2
a band recombining module configured to combine the separated bands into a single output signal
Data Source
AI summary
Method and system for band blocking in an optical telecommunication network. According to an embodiment, the present invention provides a system for optical network. The system includes an input that is configured to receive an input signal through a first optical input. The system also includes a band splitting module that is coupled to the input. The band splitting module is configured to separate the input signal into a plurality of bands. The plurality of bands includes a first band and a second band. The first band includes a first plurality of wave channels. The first plurality of wave channels is characterized by a first channel spacing. The second band includes a second plurality of wave channels, which is characterized by a second channel spacing.