Multi-Optical Path Photonic Switch with V-Groove Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photonic switches can only switch a single optical path and lack the capability to simultaneously switch multiple optical paths, which limits their functionality in managing optical fiber connections and providing traffic protection in transport nodes.
Innovation Solution
A multi-optical path photonic switch that aligns multiple optical fibers for simultaneous switching, using a combination of mechanical and micro-positioning mechanisms to ensure precise alignment and switch optical signals between working and backup paths, thereby providing traffic protection in case of failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing photonic switches are used, then the switching mechanism is simple, but only a single optical path can be switched at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The optical switch is divided into multiple independent optical blocks, each capable of switching a specific optical path. This segmentation allows multiple optical paths to be switched simultaneously while keeping each individual block relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Each optical block is designed with universal functionality to handle different optical paths through standardized interfaces and alignment mechanisms. The V-groove fiber guide structure provides a universal solution for aligning multiple fibers across different blocks, enabling multi-path switching without requiring complex custom designs for each path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical fibers are aligned for simultaneous switching, then the functionality is improved, but the alignment precision requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment adjustment mechanisms with a standardized V-groove structural design. The V-grooves are precisely formed in the optical blocks, providing automatic mechanical guidance for fiber placement. This structural approach achieves high alignment precision through design rather than requiring complex active adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the alignment approach from requiring precise active adjustment to utilizing the geometric parameters of the V-groove structure itself. By optimizing the V-groove angle and dimensions, the system achieves robust alignment that is tolerant of manufacturing variations, reducing the overall precision requirements while maintaining multi-path switching capability.
3Manufacturing precision
If mechanical and micro-positioning mechanisms are used, then the alignment accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The V-groove structures are pre-formed in the optical blocks during manufacturing, establishing the alignment geometry in advance. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex real-time adjustment mechanisms during operation, as the alignment is inherently built into the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical blocks are designed to self-align through the V-groove geometry when brought into contact. The mechanical interaction between complementary V-grooves in adjacent blocks automatically guides the fibers into proper alignment without requiring external positioning actuators or complex control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical path system includes a first block that further includes multiple first fiber optic guides, arranged in a first configuration to receive multiple first optical fibers, with one fiber in each guide. The optical path system further includes a second block comprising multiple second fiber optic guides, arranged in a second configuration to receive multiple second optical fibers, with one fiber in each guide, wherein a first face of the second block abuts a first face of the first block and wherein the first block is movable relative to the second block. The optical path system also includes micro-position adjusting mechanisms configured to move the first block relative to the second block to align the multiple first optical fibers with the multiple second optical fibers.