Distributed Passive Optical Networks with Segmented Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Passive optical networks face challenges in efficiently deploying high-bandwidth communication capabilities without active electronic devices, requiring innovative solutions for signal splitting and distribution in fiber optic systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of distributed passive optical networks using optical power splitters and wave division multiplexers at feeder and distribution terminals, enabling efficient signal splitting and distribution across multiple subscriber fibers, and allowing for incremental deployment and upgrading of network infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If optical power splitters and wave division multiplexers are used at feeder and distribution terminals, then signal distribution efficiency and bandwidth capability are improved, but device complexity and deployment cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network is segmented into multiple distribution terminals, each equipped with optical power splitters and wave division multiplexers. This segmentation allows the system to handle high-bandwidth signals by distributing them across multiple terminals rather than requiring a single complex centralized device, thereby improving signal distribution efficiency while managing device complexity through modular deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution terminals are designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both optical power splitters and wave division multiplexers in a single terminal unit. This universal design allows the same terminal structure to perform multiple functions (signal splitting and wavelength multiplexing), improving productivity without proportionally increasing overall network complexity
2Reliability
If active electronic devices such as amplifiers and repeaters are eliminated, then network reliability and cost are improved, but signal distribution capability and bandwidth delivery are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Active electronic devices (amplifiers and repeaters) are replaced with passive optical components (optical power splitters and wave division multiplexers). This substitution eliminates electronic devices that require power and maintenance, improving network reliability, while the passive optical components maintain bandwidth delivery capability through optical signal distribution and wavelength multiplexing techniques
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters by using passive optical components that operate without electrical power. Optical power splitters divide signal power among multiple outputs, while wave division multiplexers combine multiple wavelength channels, thereby maintaining high bandwidth delivery capability without requiring active electronic amplification
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 network complexity and cost while enhancing reliability by enabling high-bandwidth communication without active electronic devices, allowing for flexible and scalable deployment of fiber optic networks.
Implementation Method 1
each terminal includes an optical power splitter arrangement
Implementation Method 2
one or more terminals include wave division multiplexers
Data Source
AI summary
A passive optical network includes one or more multi-service terminals each having a housing and a plurality of ruggedized plug-receiving distribution ports accessible from outside the housing. The multi-service terminals also each include an optical power splitter or wave division multiplexer for splitting an optical signal and directing the split signal to the plug-receiving distribution ports. Some of the multi-service terminals provide a different power split ratio from others of the multi-service terminals.