Modular Optical Cross Connect With Active Alignment Probe Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical cross connect systems face challenges in scaling to high port counts due to limitations in modularity, manufacturability, redundancy, and reliability, with passive alignment methods being impractical for high port count devices and causing signal interference.
Innovation Solution
A MEMS-based optical cross connect design with modular subassemblies and active alignment techniques, using dedicated probe paths to measure and compensate for misalignment, allowing for scalable and reliable operation with low signal loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If passive alignment methods are used in optical cross connect systems, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but alignment precision deteriorates making it impractical for high port count devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements active alignment control using feedback from alignment signals. Detectors measure the alignment status of optical paths, and control circuits adjust mirror positions based on this feedback to achieve and maintain precise alignment. This feedback mechanism enables high alignment precision necessary for high port count devices while providing real-time compensation for misalignments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces passive mechanical alignment with an active control system that uses alignment signals, detectors, and feedback circuits. Instead of relying solely on mechanical precision during manufacturing, the system uses electronic control to actively maintain alignment, substituting mechanical alignment methods with an electromechanical control approach.
2Reliability
If large scale optical cross connect devices are deployed at full capacity, then port count is maximized, but reliability deteriorates creating single points of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical cross connect system into multiple independent subassemblies, each handling a portion of the total port count. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high port counts through parallel subassemblies rather than one large monolithic device, improving reliability by isolating failure points to individual subassemblies while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates redundancy into the system design, providing backup capacity and fault tolerance before failures occur. By designing with redundant paths and modular subassemblies, the system can withstand component failures without complete system outage, cushioning against reliability issues proactively rather than reactively.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular subassemblies are used to scale port count, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs modular subassemblies that can be independently manufactured, tested, and assembled. Each subassembly contains complete functional units including mirrors, collimators, and alignment components, enabling the system to scale by simply adding or removing subassemblies. This segmentation provides adaptability for different port counts while managing complexity through standardized modular units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs subassemblies with universal interfaces and standardized configurations that can be used across different system sizes. The same subassembly design can serve multiple functions and be deployed in various configurations, reducing the complexity of managing multiple specialized components while maintaining scalability and adaptability.
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
Enables the construction of high port count optical cross connects with improved stability and signal integrity, supporting in-service scalability and reducing the need for full-capacity deployment, while maintaining low loss and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting an alignment signal from an input probe port on an input array of collimators to a first mirror probe port on a first mirror array; directing the alignment signal from the first mirror port to a second mirror probe port on a second mirror array
Implementation Method 2
directing the alignment signal from the first mirror port to a second mirror probe port on a second mirror array
Data Source
AI summary
A modular and manufacturable optical cross connect includes a plurality of subassemblies each including either of an array of collimators and an array of adjustable mirrors, wherein the plurality of subassemblies are configured to modularly scale a size of the optical cross connect, wherein the plurality of subassemblies are arranged relative to one another with an optical propagation region in between, and wherein the plurality of subassemblies with the array of collimators each include one or more probe ports configured to support an alignment signal for active alignment control.