Broadband Wavelength Tuning Layout for C+L Band Optical Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current WDM transmission systems face challenges in increasing bandwidth and capacity, particularly in implementing wide-range wavelength tuning and fast switching within the C+L band, due to limitations in device cost, size, and noise tolerance, especially at higher channel speeds like 400 G.
Innovation Solution
A broadband tuning system comprising two chips with light amplification and grating regions, symmetrically arranged with optical lenses and an isolator, allowing for simultaneous tuning and amplification of light sources across the C and L bands, enabling efficient wavelength switching and amplification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single module implements wide-range tuning and fast switching, then the bandwidth and capacity are improved, but the device size becomes too large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical transmission module into multiple independent chips (first chip with C-band grating, second chip with L-band grating). Each chip handles a specific wavelength band independently, allowing the system to achieve wide-range tuning (C+L band) while keeping individual chip sizes compact. The modular architecture enables parallel operation of multiple chips within a standardized form factor.
2Productivity
If channel speed is increased to 400 G, then the transmission capacity is improved, but the device cost increases sharply
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical tuning mechanisms with all-optical wavelength selection using grating-based filters. The grating structures (first grating region, second grating region) enable wavelength routing and selection through optical path differences rather than mechanical movement, significantly reducing device complexity and manufacturing cost while supporting high-speed 400G transmission.
3Productivity
If high-level modulation format is used, then the transmission capacity is improved, but the tolerance to intensity noise and phase noise is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical amplification regions as intermediary components between the light source and the output. These amplifiers (first light amplification region, second light amplification region) provide signal regeneration and noise filtering, enabling the system to maintain high-level modulation formats while improving tolerance to intensity and phase noise through optical signal conditioning.
4Area of stationary object
If bandwidth is increased, then the transmission capacity is improved, but the conversion rate of analog-digital converter is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the analog-digital conversion bottleneck by implementing an all-optical transmission architecture. The grating-based wavelength selection and optical amplification enable direct optical processing and transmission without requiring high-speed analog-digital conversion, allowing the system to achieve wide bandwidth (C+L band) without being constrained by converter speed limitations.
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 system effectively tunes and amplifies light sources across a wide range, supporting high-speed transmission by controlling current thresholds and using optical components for precise wavelength management, thus enhancing transmission performance and reducing noise sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
the first forward grating region and the first backward grating region are configured to tune the first light source; the second forward grating region and the second backward grating region are configured to tune the second light source
Implementation Method 2
the first light amplification region is configured to amplify a first light source and to turn on or turn off the first light source, and the second light amplification region is configured to amplify a second light source
Data Source
AI summary
A broadband tuning system includes a first chip and a second chip. The first chip includes a first light amplification region, a first forward grating region and a first backward grating region that are sequentially arranged in a first direction. The first light amplification region is configured to amplify a first light source and to turn on or turn off the first light source, and the first forward grating region and the first backward grating region are configured to tune the first light source. The second chip includes a second light amplification region, a second forward grating region and a second backward grating region that are sequentially arranged in a second direction. The second light amplification region is configured to amplify a second light source and to turn on or turn off the second light source, and the second forward grating region and the second backward grating region are configured to tune the second light source.