Multi-Core Light Amplifier for Mismatched Fiber Core Counts
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-core optical fiber transmission systems, the mismatch in the number of cores between the multi-core optical transmission path and the multi-core optical amplifier poses difficulties in connecting these components effectively.
Innovation Solution
A light amplification device and method that include a multi-core optical amplification unit with a plurality of amplification cores, connected to a multi-core optical transmission path such that the total number of amplification cores is equal to or greater than the number of transmission cores, allowing for efficient signal amplification and matching of components despite core number discrepancies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the number of cores in multi-core optical amplifier is fixed to match the transmission path, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and adaptability deteriorate due to the need for different amplifier configurations for different transmission paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the multi-core optical amplifier universal by enabling it to adapt to transmission paths with different numbers of cores. The amplifier can dynamically adjust the number of amplification cores to match the transmission path requirements, allowing a single amplifier design to serve multiple configurations rather than requiring dedicated amplifiers for each core count.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic configurability to the optical amplifier, allowing the number of amplification cores to be changed based on the transmission path requirements. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to adapt between different core configurations (e.g., switching between 6-core and 12-core modes) without requiring physical replacement of the amplifier.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of amplification cores is increased to cover all possible transmission paths, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the amplification function into independently controllable core units. Instead of requiring a fixed high-core-count amplifier to handle all scenarios, the system divides the amplification capability into modular segments that can be selectively activated. This allows the amplifier to use only the necessary number of cores for each specific transmission path, reducing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
3Measurement precision
If core excitation method is used for each core, then amplification precision is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by activating only the necessary number of amplification cores based on the transmission path requirements. Instead of continuously operating all available cores or using excessive excitation, the system activates precisely the number of cores needed for the current configuration, optimizing power consumption while maintaining adequate amplification precision.
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 effective connection and amplification of signal light between the multi-core optical transmission path and amplifier, even when their core numbers do not match, optimizing power consumption and optical amplification performance based on operation modes.
Implementation Method 1
the multi-core optical fiber 91 includes a second clad that is arranged in a periphery of the first clad and reflects excitation light having a wavelength for exciting the rare-earth ions
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of cores doped with rare-earth ions are arranged in a first clad
Data Source
AI summary
A light amplification device includes a multi-core light amplifier including a plurality of amplification cores; and a connection circuit for connecting the multi-core light amplifier with a multi-core optical transmission path including a plurality of transmission path cores, and a total number of the plurality of amplification cores is greater than or equal to the number of transmission cores among the plurality of transmission path cores through which signal light propagates.