Optical Fiber Type Determination via Empty Channel Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for determining the type of optical fiber in an optical communication network are labor-intensive and require operators to be present at both ends of the fiber, making them inefficient for large-scale networks.
Innovation Solution
An optical transmission system that includes a signal generator, an optical channel monitor, and a processor to determine the type of optical fiber based on the reception power of a pseudo WDM signal, allowing for automated identification without the need for operators at both ends.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional dispersion measurement methods are used to determine optical fiber type, then measurement precision is achieved, but device complexity and labor requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the essential characteristic (dispersion value) needed for fiber type identification from the complex optical signal. By using a simple power measurement at a specific wavelength (1310 nm) rather than comprehensive dispersion analysis, the system achieves accurate fiber type determination with minimal equipment complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a simple, inexpensive optical power meter and wavelength-selective filter instead of complex dispersion measurement instruments. This approach replaces expensive, complex equipment with affordable, simple devices that can achieve the same identification function.
2Measurement precision
If operators position at both ends of the fiber to perform measurements, then measurement precision is ensured, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service measurement where the optical fiber itself provides the measurement characteristic through its inherent dispersion properties. The fiber's own optical characteristics are exploited to identify its type without requiring external intervention or complex measurement setups at both ends.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention performs the measurement using existing optical signals already present in the network or by injecting simple test signals at one end. The dispersion characteristic is measured in advance or during normal operation, eliminating the need for coordinated measurements at both fiber ends.
3Reliability
If comprehensive optical fiber characterization is performed, then reliability of communication system is improved, but productivity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention focuses measurement only on the specific local characteristic (optical power at 1310 nm wavelength) that is sufficient for fiber type identification. By measuring only this specific parameter rather than comprehensive fiber characteristics, the system maintains adequate reliability while significantly improving measurement efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter from comprehensive dispersion analysis to a simple optical power measurement at a specific wavelength. This parameter transformation enables rapid fiber type identification while maintaining sufficient reliability for communication system configuration.
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 reduces labor and costs by enabling automated identification of optical fiber types, improving efficiency in large-scale optical communication networks.
Implementation Method 1
an optical fiber provided between the first optical node and the second optical node
Implementation Method 2
an optical channel monitor provided in the second optical node and configured to measure reception power of each channel in the optical signal received through the optical fiber
Data Source
AI summary
An optical transmission system includes a first optical node, a second optical node, and an optical fiber provided between the first optical node and the second optical node. The optical transmission system further includes: a signal generator provided in the first optical node and configured to generate an optical signal including a plurality of wavelength channels and an empty channel; an optical transmission circuit provided in the first optical node and configured to output the optical signal to the optical fiber; an optical channel monitor provided in the second optical node and configured to measure reception power of each channel in the optical signal received through the optical fiber; and a processor configured to determine a type of the optical fiber based on the reception power of the empty channel, the reception power being measured by the optical channel monitor.