Plastic Multicore Fiber Breakout for Flexible Channel Re-Grouping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber fan-in fan-out devices and active optical cables lack re-grouping functionalities and can only support a small number of parallel channels, making it difficult to manage high data rates and flexible network architectures in data centers.
Innovation Solution
A method is provided to split a single plastic multicore fiber into multiple sub fibers using cutting and connecting techniques, allowing for breakout functionality and flexible data channel distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current fiber fan-in fan-out devices are used to map individual cores in MCFs into individual single core fibers, then each core can be mapped to a separate fiber, but the devices lack re-grouping functionalities and can only support a small number of parallel channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fiber mapping function by introducing separate mapping devices for different channel groups. Instead of a single complex fan-in fan-out device, the system uses multiple simpler mapping devices that each handle a subset of channels, enabling re-grouping functionality while reducing individual device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the same fiber mapping infrastructure to support both traditional 1:1 mapping and new re-grouping operations. The system can dynamically reconfigure which cores map to which fibers based on different channel groupings, making the infrastructure adaptable to various network topologies and failure scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If active optical cables and DAC breakout cables are used, then connectivity is provided, but they also lack re-grouping functionalities and can only support a small number of parallel channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability to the fiber mapping system. Instead of fixed 1:1 mappings, the system can dynamically reconfigure channel groupings based on network conditions, failure detection, or optimization requirements. This enables the same physical infrastructure to adapt to different operational needs and support varying numbers of active channels.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the mapping function across multiple devices and channels, the system can independently manage different channel groups. This segmentation enables selective activation of channels and flexible re-grouping without requiring complete system reconfiguration, thereby increasing the effective number of parallel channels supported.
3Adaptability or versatility
If breakout functionality is implemented to provide compatibility to lower rate ports and enable new network architectures, then flexibility and robustness are improved, but the manufacturing complication of FIFO and re-grouping devices becomes extremely high for large multiple-channel systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the complex breakout functionality into smaller, manageable segments. Instead of manufacturing a single complex device that handles all channels, the system uses multiple simpler mapping devices that can be manufactured independently and then assembled into the complete solution, reducing individual manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary mapping devices that act as mediators between the fiber cores and the final channel connections. These intermediary devices simplify the overall architecture by providing standardized mapping functions that can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing the complexity of direct large-scale channel mappings.
Data Source
AI summary
A method comprising: cutting a plastic multicore fiber into two or more sub fibers; connecting each of the two or more sub fibers to respective additional fibers. Further, a method comprising: cutting a first plastic multicore fiber to remove part of the first plastic multicore fiber and provide a first sub fiber, the first sub fiber comprising a residual part of the first plastic multicore fiber; cutting a second plastic multicore fiber to remove part of the second plastic multicore fiber and provide a second sub fiber, the second sub fiber comprising a residual part of the second plastic multicore fiber; connecting an optical fiber to the first sub fiber and the second sub fiber using a connector.