Interleaver-Based Colorless Add Architecture for Optical Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current colorless add architectures in optical communication networks face issues with crosstalk and signal noise ratio (SNR) due to wavelength channel overlap, and they either incur high costs or have large footprints, particularly in WDM or DWDM systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an interleaver-based colorless add architecture that uses optical switches and couplers to separate and combine odd and even wavelength channels, reducing crosstalk and improving SNR, while also leveraging Planar-Lightwave Circuit (PLC) technology to minimize cost and size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If coupler-based colorless add architecture is used, then wavelength channels can be combined, but crosstalk and signal noise ratio deteriorate due to wavelength channel overlap
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wavelength channels into odd and even channels, routing them through separate paths with distinct filters. This segmentation prevents wavelength channel overlap and the resulting crosstalk that plagues coupler-based architectures, thereby improving signal noise ratio and reliability.
2Reliability
If traditional colorless add architecture is used, then wavelength channels can be combined, but system cost and footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple filters with different band-pass spectra are integrated within a compact architecture. The filters are arranged to process odd and even channels through nested optical paths, achieving effective channel separation while minimizing system footprint and complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If filters with different band-pass spectra are used to select wavelength bands, then different wavelength channels can be provided from same laser transmitters, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning specific band-pass characteristics to different filters based on their position in the optical path. Each filter is optimized for its specific function (odd channel selection or even channel selection), allowing versatile wavelength channel selection while managing device complexity through localized optimization rather than universal complexity.
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 results in lower crosstalk, improved SNR, and reduced system costs compared to coupler-based architectures, with the added benefit of a more compact design, making it a cost-effective solution for WDM or DWDM systems.
Implementation Method 1
an interleaver-based colorless add architecture that uses optical switches and couplers to separate and combine odd and even wavelength channels
Implementation Method 2
uses optical switches and couplers to separate and combine odd and even wavelength channels
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus comprising a plurality of switches coupled to a plurality of corresponding colorless laser transmitters, an odd channel coupler coupled to each of the switches, an even channel coupler coupled to each of the switches, and an interleaver coupled to the odd channel coupler and the even channel coupler. Also disclosed is an apparatus comprising a coupler coupled to a plurality of colorless laser transmitters, a first interleaver coupled to the coupler, and a second interleaver coupled to the first interleaver. Also disclosed is an apparatus comprising an odd channel coupler coupled to a plurality of first laser transmitters, an even channel coupler coupled to a plurality of second laser transmitters, and an interleaver coupled to the odd channel coupler and the even channel coupler.