Bidirectional Coupling Optic for Compact OTDR in Optical Transceivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing embedded OTDR systems are costly, large, and limited to single-mode fibers with low resolution, making them unsuitable for high-speed, multi-mode fiber applications, especially in environments requiring precise fault detection within short distances, such as military ships, where higher resolution and compactness are necessary without disrupting data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional coupling optic device that couples light into optical fibers, enabling high-resolution OTDR functionality within small form-factor optical transceivers, compatible with both single-mode and multi-mode fibers, and capable of high-speed data transmission, using a molded one-piece design with planar interfaces to maintain compactness and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate components with non-planar electrical interfaces are used for embedded OTDR systems, then the system can achieve OTDR functionality, but the device becomes more expensive and requires larger space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (lens, reflector, isolator) into a single integrated optical component with planar interfaces. This consolidation reduces device complexity and space requirements while maintaining OTDR functionality, directly addressing the contradiction between achieving reliable OTDR operation and minimizing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated optical component performs multiple functions simultaneously: coupling light into the fiber, isolating back-reflections, and enabling bidirectional communication. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components, reducing both device complexity and cost while maintaining full OTDR capability.
2Measurement precision
If existing embedded OTDR systems are used, then single-mode fiber testing is possible, but they offer lower resolution and are limited to single-mode fibers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses adjustable pulse widths in the range of hundreds of picoseconds to achieve high resolution OTDR measurements. By optimizing the pulse width parameter and using integrated optics designed for multi-mode fibers, the system achieves centimeter-range resolution while being compatible with both single-mode and multi-mode fibers, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and adaptability.
3Speed
If OTDR functionality is added to SFP optical modules, then high-speed data transmission can be maintained, but the form-factor requirements become more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates OTDR functionality directly into the SFP optical module using a compact, single-piece optical component. This integration eliminates the need for additional space-consuming components and maintains compliance with stringent SFP form-factor specifications while enabling high-speed data transmission with OTDR capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of planar interfaces and thin-film optical elements allows the OTDR system to be packaged in a compact form that fits within the SFP module constraints. The planar design enables efficient light coupling and isolation in a minimal volume, maintaining both high-speed transmission and small form-factor requirements.
4Speed
If non-planar electrical interfaces are used in OTDR systems, then optical coupling can be achieved, but they are not suitable for higher speed and less noisy data transmissions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from non-planar to planar electrical interfaces, changing the geometric parameter of the interface. This modification enables compatibility with high-speed data transmission requirements while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized planar connection technologies, resolving the contradiction between transmission speed and manufacturing suitability.
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 cost-effective, high-resolution OTDR functionality in compact form-factors, suitable for high-speed data transmission, and supports both single-mode and multi-mode fibers, facilitating precise fault detection in short-distance applications without disrupting data transmission.
Implementation Method 1
collimating, through the first lens, the coupled light to form collimated light
Implementation Method 2
reflecting the collimated light by the first reflecting surface to form reflected light passing through the coupling optic
Implementation Method 3
refracting the reflected light through the first recess side to form first refracted light outside the coupling optic
Implementation Method 4
further refracting the first refracted light back into the coupling optic through the second recess side to form second refracted light passing through the coupling optic
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and devices for coupling light bidirectionally into optical fiber are described. The disclosed devices can be manufactured inexpensively in one-piece and integrated in high speed optical transceivers with small form-factor. The described methods and devices enable OTDR functionality in such transceivers and are compatible with sensor components mounted on a wiring or circuit board.