Fiber Indexing for Passive Optical Network Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Passive optical networks face challenges in efficiently expanding capacity and managing network resources to meet increasing bandwidth demands without introducing active electronic devices that increase complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an indexed fiber optic network architecture that utilizes coarse wavelength division multiplexers (CWDM) or dense wavelength division multiplexers (DWDM) to overlay additional wavelengths on existing GPON networks, managed through a fiber distribution hub for efficient port allocation and network expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If active electronic devices such as amplifiers and repeaters are introduced to expand network capacity, then bandwidth capability is improved, but network complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) technology to transmit multiple optical signals at different wavelengths simultaneously over the same fiber optic infrastructure. This parameter change in the optical domain allows network capacity expansion without adding active electronic devices, thereby increasing bandwidth capability while maintaining network simplicity and avoiding additional complexity from amplifiers and repeaters
2Productivity
If active electronic devices are added to meet increasing bandwidth demands, then communication capability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables existing single-wavelength fiber optic infrastructure to perform multiple functions by overlaying additional wavelength channels. This multi-functionality approach allows the same physical infrastructure to carry both original and additional communication services simultaneously, thereby improving communication capability without requiring separate infrastructure investments and reducing overall network cost
3Adaptability or versatility
If the network architecture is expanded to accommodate more services, then service capability is improved, but reliability may decrease due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent expands service capability by adding wavelength dimension to the existing fiber optic network. Instead of expanding horizontally by adding more physical components and devices, the solution moves to another dimension (wavelength spectrum) to multiply service capacity. This approach improves adaptability and service capability while maintaining reliability by avoiding additional active components that could introduce failure points
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 solution enables efficient expansion of network capacity, reduces network complexity and cost, and enhances reliability by allowing for the integration of additional services and bandwidth without the need for active electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
coarse wavelength division multiplexers (CWDM) or dense wavelength division multiplexers (DWDM) to overlay additional wavelengths on existing GPON networks
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems and method for deploying a fiber optic network. Distribution devices are used to index fibers within the system to ensure that live fibers are provided at output locations throughout the system. In an example, fibers can be indexed in multiple directions within the system. In an example, spare ports can be providing in a forward direction and reverse direction ports can also be provided.