Bidirectional Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer Using Dual Microring Resonators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical add/drop multiplexers support optical signal transmission only in a single direction, leading to interference and service disruptions in bidirectional optical communication networks.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dual-microring resonant cavity configuration with optical circulators allows for the simultaneous transmission and extraction of optical signals in both directions by using first and second microring resonant cavities and optical circulators to manage signal flow and directionality effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single microring resonant cavity is used as the optical add/drop multiplexer, then the device structure is simple, but it supports optical signal transmission only in a single direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single microring resonant cavity into two separate microring resonant cavities (first microring resonant cavity and second microring resonant cavity), each responsible for handling signals in opposite directions. This segmentation allows the system to independently manage bidirectional traffic while maintaining relatively simple individual cavity structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent assigns different functional characteristics to different parts of the system by configuring the first microring resonant cavity to primarily handle signals in one direction and the second microring resonant cavity to handle signals in the opposite direction. This local differentiation of function enables bidirectional capability without requiring complete system redesign.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical signals are transmitted in both directions through a single microring resonant cavity, then bidirectional communication is achieved, but signal interference occurs and service processing is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal processing function by using separate microring resonant cavities for different transmission directions. The first microring resonant cavity processes signals in one direction while the second microring resonant cavity processes signals in the opposite direction, preventing interference between bidirectional signals and ensuring reliable service processing.
3Device complexity
If a single-directional optical add/drop multiplexer is used, then the device configuration is simple, but it cannot support normal optical communication in bidirectional networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical add/drop multiplexer functionality into two independent microring resonant cavities, each capable of handling signals in its designated direction. This segmentation enables the device to support bidirectional network communication while maintaining relatively simple individual cavity configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional system where the first microring resonant cavity and second microring resonant cavity work together to provide both unidirectional and bidirectional transmission capabilities. This universal design allows the device to adapt to various network communication scenarios without requiring complete system replacement.
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
Ensures normal transmission and extraction of optical signals in both directions, preventing interference and maintaining service integrity in bidirectional optical communication networks.
Implementation Method 1
an optical signal that has a same wavelength as a resonant wavelength of the microring resonant cavity is extracted
Implementation Method 2
a first optical circulator, where a first end (a) of the first optical circulator (305) is connected to one end of a second waveguide (304), and a second end (b) of the first optical circulator (305) is connected to one end of a third waveguide (306); configured to transmit, to the second microring resonant cavity (303), the first optical network signal transmitted by the first microring resonant cavity (302)
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention relates to the field of communications technologies, and in particular, to an optical add/drop multiplexer, so that the optical add/drop multiplexer can ensure proper processing of light in two directions. The optical add/drop multiplexer can complete an extraction of a signal in one direction by using one microring resonant cavity and two optical circulators, and if a wavelength of a signal in the other direction is the same as a resonant wavelength of the microring resonant cavity, the signal may reenter an optical network after passing through two microring resonant cavities and one optical circulator, and is not affected. Therefore, proper processing of optical signals in the two directions is ensured, and the optical signals in the two directions do not interfere with each other.