3D Fiber Optic Assembly for High-Density DWDM Channel Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The deployment of dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) in fiber optic networks leads to challenges in space density, channelization efficiency, and cross-connection methodology due to the increased number of filters required for higher channel counts, consuming additional space in fiber optic assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic assembly design with a body and cover defining fiber optic component routing planes, incorporating optical filters to enable up to 450 DWDM channels within a volume of less than 10^8 mm^3, utilizing a base with sidewalls and a detachable cover to optimize space utilization and facilitate modular assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the number of DWDM channels is increased, then channel capacity is improved, but the number of filters required increases consuming additional space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical filtering functions into a single integrated AWG filter component, which simultaneously handles multiple DWDM channel separation and routing functions that would traditionally require multiple discrete filters, thereby reducing the overall volume occupied by filtering components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from planar filter arrangements to a three-dimensional stacked architecture where multiple fiber optic components are vertically arranged and interconnected, enabling higher channel density within the same footprint by utilizing the vertical dimension for component stacking and light path routing
2Productivity
If more optical filters are added to support higher channel counts, then channelization efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple discrete optical filter functions into a single Arrayed Waveguide Grating (AWG) filter component, which inherently provides multi-channel wavelength separation capabilities, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining high channelization efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The AWG filter component serves multiple functions simultaneously including wavelength demultiplexing, channel separation, and signal routing for numerous DWDM channels, replacing what would traditionally require multiple specialized filter components and simplifying the overall system architecture
3Quantity of substance
If traditional filter methods are used for DWDM deployment, then channel capacity is increased, but space density deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a three-dimensional stacked architecture where fiber optic components, including the AWG filter and associated optical elements, are arranged in vertical layers with interconnectors routing light paths between levels, thereby achieving high channel density without proportionally increasing the horizontal footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where smaller optical components and fiber routing structures are integrated within and between larger structural elements, maximizing the utilization of available space and achieving compact packaging of high-channel-count DWDM functionality
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 design achieves high-density fiber optic connections with reduced space requirements, enabling efficient channel management and easy access for maintenance, while supporting MUX and DeMUX applications in a single module.
Implementation Method 1
Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) multiplexes a number of optical carrier signals onto a single optical fiber by using different wavelengths of light
Implementation Method 2
WDM modules may utilize a plurality of optical filters, e.g. bandpass filters and channel filters, to isolate wavelengths for each channel
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a fiber optic assembly that includes a body and a lid coupled to the body where the body and the lid each define a respective fiber routing plane. The fiber optic assembly also includes a plurality of ports on the body and a plurality of ports on the lid such that when the lid and the body are in a closed configuration, the ports of the body and the ports of the lid define a singular connection plane.