Latchable Asymmetric Coupler for Adjustable Optical Splitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing optical splitter modules require multiple types to be carried in inventory to achieve equal distribution of optical power among users, increasing complexity and cost due to different tapping fractions needed at various locations in passive optical networks.
Innovation Solution
A latchable, asymmetric coupler with adjustable tapping fractions allows technicians to set the splitting ratio in situ, enabling a single type of optical splitter module to be used for various tapping fractions, reducing the need for multiple module types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple types of optical splitter modules are used to achieve equal distribution of optical power among users at different locations, then the optical power distribution is equalized, but the inventory complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by making the tapping fraction adjustable rather than fixed. The optical splitter module allows technicians to modify the tapping fraction parameter in the field to match specific network requirements. This is achieved through a mechanism that enables reconfiguration of the splitter's coupling ratio, allowing a single module type to provide multiple tapping fractions (e.g., 1/4, 1/3, 1/2) depending on the network location and user distribution needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single optical splitter module that can perform multiple functions by adjusting its tapping fraction. Instead of requiring separate module types for different tapping fractions, this universal module can be configured to provide various splitting ratios. This eliminates the need to carry multiple specialized module types in inventory while maintaining the ability to achieve equal optical power distribution across different network configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of optical splitter modules are carried in inventory to accommodate different tapping fractions, then various network configurations are supported, but the cost and logistical burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single optical splitter module that can perform multiple functions by adjusting its tapping fraction. Instead of requiring separate module types for different tapping fractions, this universal module can be configured to provide various splitting ratios. This eliminates the need to carry multiple specialized module types in inventory while maintaining the ability to achieve equal optical power distribution across different network configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the tapping fraction from a static, fixed parameter to a dynamic, adjustable one. The splitter module includes mechanisms that allow the tapping fraction to be changed in the field based on network requirements. This dynamic capability enables a single module type to adapt to various network configurations, reducing inventory needs while maintaining versatility.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed tapping fraction modules are used, then manufacturing and deployment are simpler, but flexibility in network deployment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by making the tapping fraction adjustable rather than fixed. The optical splitter module allows technicians to modify the tapping fraction parameter in the field to match specific network requirements. This is achieved through a mechanism that enables reconfiguration of the splitter's coupling ratio, allowing a single module type to provide multiple tapping fractions (e.g., 1/4, 1/3, 1/2) depending on the network location and user distribution needs.
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 simplifies inventory management and reduces costs by allowing a single module to be adjusted for different tapping fractions, maintaining consistent optical power distribution across the network.
Implementation Method 1
The asymmetric splitter includes a first waveguide and a second waveguide that are evanescently coupled to one another
Data Source
AI summary
An optical communications system includes a laser transmitter to generate an optical signal and a first optical fiber network coupled to transmit the optical signal from the laser transmitter system. A first latchable, asymmetric coupler is disposed along the first optical fiber network to receive the optical signal, and has a first tap output that receives a selected and alterable first fraction of the optical signal. A second latchable, asymmetric coupler is disposed along the first optical fiber network to receive the optical signal from the first latchable asymmetric coupler and has a second tap output that receives a selected and alterable second fraction of the optical signal incident at the second latchable. In certain embodiments the first and second couplers are capable of operating at any of at least three tapping fractions.