Optical Fiber Electric Field Variation Cycle Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring the variation cycle of electric field distributions in optical fibers, such as those using image sensors, are time-consuming and inefficient for estimating variations in higher-order modes.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize the difference in electric field distributions between pump light and probe light to measure the variation cycle by analyzing the Brillouin gain spectrum, allowing for high-speed measurement through optical-to-electrical conversion without an image sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an image sensor is used to measure the variation cycle of electric field distribution, then measurement precision is improved, but measurement time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/image sensor-based measurement system with an optical-based Brillouin scattering measurement system. Instead of using an image sensor to capture spatial distribution, the invention uses Brillouin gain spectrum measurements to indirectly obtain electric field distribution information through optical interactions, thereby eliminating the frame rate limitation of image sensors and achieving faster measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces Brillouin scattering as an intermediary mechanism to measure electric field distribution. Rather than directly measuring the electric field with an image sensor, the invention uses the interaction between pump light, probe light, and acoustic waves (Brillouin scattering) as a mediator to obtain electric field distribution information, which can then be processed to determine variation cycles without being constrained by image sensor frame rates.
2Measurement precision
If distributed measurement along the optical fiber is performed, then loss evaluation accuracy at connection points is improved, but measurement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal measurement system based on Brillouin scattering that can simultaneously perform multiple functions: measuring electric field distribution, determining variation cycles, and evaluating loss at connection points along the entire optical fiber. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate measurement systems for each function, thereby reducing overall measurement complexity while maintaining distributed measurement capabilities.
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
Enables rapid estimation of electric field distribution variations in optical fibers, reducing measurement time and improving accuracy by analyzing the Brillouin gain spectrum in a distributed manner along the fiber.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring a Brillouin gain of stimulated Brillouin scattering generated when the pump light and the probe light collide in the optical fiber
Data Source
AI summary
distribution of the any higher-order mode.