Configurable Optical Splitter With Duplex Connector for Fewer SKUs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical communication networks face challenges with multiple stock keeping units (SKUs) due to varying optical splitter ratios, requiring complex manufacturing, inventory, and installation processes, and the need for multiple optical connections which slow down the installation process.
Innovation Solution
The development of optical devices with field-configurable splitting ratios and a duplex connector that allows for a single optical connection to handle both input and pass-through signals, reducing the need for multiple components and simplifying installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different optical splitters with varying splitting ratios are used to meet different network requirements, then the adaptability and versatility of the optical network is improved, but the device complexity and inventory management complexity increase due to multiple SKUs
Solution Approach 1:
The optical splitter is designed with a configurable splitting ratio that can be adjusted in the field using a programmable microcontroller. This dynamic reconfiguration capability allows a single optical splitter device to adapt to different network requirements by changing its splitting ratio through software control, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-ratio splitter models and reducing SKU complexity while maintaining high adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical splitter incorporates a universal design with integrated programmable control that enables it to perform multiple functions: it can operate at different splitting ratios (90/10, 80/20, 70/30, 60/40, etc.), provide pass-through optical signals, and be configured for various network topologies. This multi-functionality allows a single device type to replace multiple specialized splitter models, reducing inventory complexity while maintaining versatility
2Reliability
If multiple optical connections are made to provide input optical signal and pass-through signal at each access point, then the reliability of signal transmission is improved, but the installation time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The optical splitter integrates multiple optical connection functions into a single access point device. It combines the input optical signal reception, signal splitting, and pass-through signal transmission capabilities in one unified unit. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate optical connections and components needed during installation, thereby increasing installer productivity while maintaining reliable signal transmission through the integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The optical splitter is pre-configured with programmable control circuitry and default operating parameters before deployment. This preliminary configuration allows the device to be quickly installed and activated with minimal field setup required, reducing installation time while ensuring reliable optical signal transmission from the outset. The pre-programmed microcontroller enables immediate operation upon installation
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
This approach reduces manufacturing and inventory costs by allowing a single part number for optical devices, and streamlines installation by eliminating the need for multiple optical connections, thereby enhancing flexibility and efficiency in network setup.
Implementation Method 1
At each access point, the optical signal is split such that a percentage of the optical signal is split amongst subscribers and another percentage is provided further downstream to the next access point. Optical splitters having different splitting ratios are used to split the optical signal.
Implementation Method 2
a duplex connector configured to receive a single optical connection. The input optical signal and the pass-through optical signal are transmitted through the single optical connection
Data Source
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AI summary
Optical devices including an optical splitter and a duplex optical connector are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical device includes an optical splitter having an input, a network output, and a pass-through output, wherein the optical splitter is configured to split an input signal received at the input into a network optical signal at the network output and a pass-through output signal at the pass-through output. The optical device further includes a duplex connector having an input connection point and a pass-through connection point, an input waveguide optically coupling the input connection point to the input of the optical splitter, and a pass-through waveguide optically coupling the pass-through connection point to the pass-through output of the optical splitter.