Multicore Fiber Coupling via Mode Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing limitations in optical fiber transmission capacity necessitate the development of a multi-core multi-mode fiber coupling device and method to enhance information transmission capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multi-core multi-mode fiber coupling device and method that employs optical couplers and mode converters to convert light beams from multiple single-mode fibers into higher order modes, enabling efficient coupling with a multi-core multi-mode fiber using a spatial coupling system, thereby optimizing mode conversion and multiplexing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple single mode fibers are coupled to a multi-core fiber using conventional methods, then the coupling can be achieved, but the transmission capacity is limited and the number of components required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple single mode fibers and a multi-core fiber into a single bundled structure, allowing simultaneous coupling of multiple light beams. This merging approach increases transmission capacity by utilizing multiple cores and modes while reducing the number of separate coupling operations and components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from coupling single-mode to multi-core multi-mode fiber, utilizing higher order modes as an additional dimension for light beam transmission. This dimensional change in mode structure enables increased transmission capacity by exploiting the multi-mode capability of the fiber.
2Adaptability or versatility
If light beams are converted to higher order modes using separate mode converters for each fiber, then mode conversion can be achieved, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mode conversion functions into a unified bundled fiber structure where multiple single mode fibers are coupled to a multi-core fiber simultaneously. This combined approach achieves mode conversion for multiple light beams without requiring separate mode converters for each fiber, thereby reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-core multi-mode fiber structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the coupling medium and the mode converter. The fiber's ability to support multiple cores and modes provides universal functionality that replaces the need for dedicated mode conversion devices for each individual fiber.
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
This approach allows for increased transmission capacity by simultaneously converting and multiplexing light beams into higher order modes, reducing the number of components required and enhancing the efficiency of multi-core multi-mode fiber coupling.
Implementation Method 1
a first mode converter (15) for simultaneously implementing thereat mode conversion to light beams from the first fiber group (11)
Implementation Method 2
a first light converging system (13), for converging a group of outgoing light beams from the first fiber group (11)
Data Source
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AI summary
[Problem] A device for coupling a multicore/multimode fiber that can transmit a large quantity of information. [Solution] This multicore/multimode fiber coupling device has a first fiber group (11), a first light converging system (13), a first mode converter (15), a second fiber group (21), a second light converging system (23), and light converging system (33) for multicore fibers. By means of the first mode converter (15), light from the first fiber group (11) is subjected to mode conversion en masse. A space coupling system (33) for multicore fibers transmits light derived from the second fiber group (21) and light derived from the first fiber group (11) subjected to mode conversion to the multicore fibers (31).