Matrix-Switched Variable Tilt Equalization for Multi-Core Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increase in system price due to the need for multiple tilt equalizer devices to maintain optical intensity profile equality in multi-core optical transmission systems is a challenge.
Innovation Solution
A variable tilt equalization device comprising a first and second variable tilt equalizer, connected by multi-input/multi-output matrix switches, allowing for flexible adjustment of optical intensity profiles without increasing system size or cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of tilt equalizer devices is increased to expand the adjustment range of tilt amount, then the tilt equalization capability is improved, but the device complexity and system price increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes single-core fibers serve multiple functions by using them for both tilt equalization and signal routing. The matrix switch enables the same fiber to be dynamically allocated to different tilt equalizer devices, allowing each tilt equalizer to handle multiple cores over time rather than requiring dedicated fibers for each device. This multi-functional use of fibers reduces the total number of tilt equalizer devices needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability through matrix switches that can change connection patterns in real-time. Instead of static one-to-one mappings between tilt equalizers and cores, the system dynamically assigns fibers to different tilt equalizer devices based on current equalization needs. This dynamic allocation allows the adjustment range to be expanded without proportionally increasing the number of devices.
2Reliability
If the number of optical devices mounted on one device is increased to improve tilt equalization, then the equalization performance is improved, but the device complexity and system price increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a unified system architecture. The matrix switch integrates routing and fiber allocation functions, while tilt equalizer devices perform both tilt equalization and signal switching. This merging of functions reduces the total number of discrete optical devices needed compared to traditional separate-function architectures.
Solution Approach 2:
Each tilt equalizer device is designed to handle multiple cores through dynamic fiber allocation, making them universal devices that can serve different equalization needs. The same physical device can be assigned to equalize different cores at different times, reducing the total number of devices required for reliable equalization across all cores.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple variable tilt equalizer devices are used in a multi-core system, then the tilt equalization capability is improved, but the system price increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic fiber allocation through matrix switches that can reconfigure connections based on system needs. Instead of deploying multiple static tilt equalizer devices for each core, the system dynamically assigns available fibers to the tilt equalizer that needs them most. This dynamic sharing reduces the total number of tilt equalizer devices required, thereby lowering system cost while maintaining equalization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of tilt equalizer devices dynamically by adjusting which fibers they handle and what tilt ranges they cover. Rather than having fixed, dedicated devices for each core, the parameters (fiber assignments, tilt adjustment ranges) are flexibly modified based on current system requirements, allowing fewer devices to achieve the same overall capability.
Data Source
AI summary
According to the present invention, a variable tilt equalization device includes a first variable tilt equalizer including a plurality of first tilt equalizers, a second variable tilt equalizer including a plurality of second tilt equalizers, a first matrix switch being a multi-input/multi-output matrix switch connected to an input side of the first variable tilt equalizer, a second matrix switch being a multi-input/multi-output matrix switch configured to connect an output side of the first variable tilt equalizer and an input side of the second variable tilt equalizer to each other via a plurality of optical paths, and a third matrix switch being a multi-input/multi-output matrix switch connected to an output side of the second variable tilt equalizer.