Multi-Core Fiber Network Layout for Marker-Swapped Node Connections

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Solution Overview

Problem

The construction and management of optical communication networks using multi-core fibers are hindered by the need for operators to distinguish between normal-type and reverse-type multi-core fiber connected bodies, which complicates node connections and network design.

Innovation Solution

The solution involves creating optical communication networks where all transmission paths are constituted by either multi-core fibers with swapped marker positions or those without swapped marker positions, allowing operators to identify the type based on end surface alignment and marker positions, simplifying connection operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If multi-core fiber connected bodies with different marker positions are used in optical communication networks, then transmission capacity is improved, but operator complexity increases due to the need to distinguish between normal-type and reverse-type connected bodies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmission capacityVSAvoidoperator complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a domain classification system as an intermediary framework. By categorizing multi-core fiber connected bodies into distinct domains (first domain with swapped markers, second domain with non-swapped markers), the system provides operators with a simplified reference framework. This intermediary classification eliminates the need to remember complex connection rules for each fiber type, reducing operator complexity while maintaining high transmission capacity through the multi-core fiber infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If operators need to know the type of multi-core fiber connected body to perform connections, then connection accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the need to memorize different connection rules

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection accuracyVSAvoidease of connection operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the multi-core fiber connected body to provide connection information autonomously through its inherent marker configuration. The marker positions on the fiber ends serve as self-contained identification signals that automatically indicate the fiber type (normal-type or reverse-type). This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for operators to memorize connection rules, as the fiber itself carries the necessary connection information through its marker arrangement, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining connection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the optical communication network includes both normal-type and reverse-type multi-core fiber connected bodies, then network flexibility is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring increases due to the need to identify fiber types

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork flexibilityVSAvoiddifficulty of fiber type identification
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs marker position differentiation as a visual identification system analogous to color changes. By positioning markers at different locations on the end surfaces of multi-core fiber connected bodies (swapped positions for normal-type, non-swapped positions for reverse-type), the system creates distinct visual characteristics that can be easily detected and measured. This approach enables network flexibility through the use of both fiber types while simplifying identification, as operators can quickly distinguish fiber types based on the visible marker arrangements without complex detection procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250358010A1Optical communication network and method for manufacturing same
Publication Date: 2025.11.20 FUJIKURA LTD
  • US20250358010A1 patent drawing
  • US20250358010A1 patent drawing
  • US20250358010A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical communication network includes three or more nodes and a domain in which each of transmission paths, that connects two of the three or more nodes within the domain, is constituted by a multi-core fiber or a multi-core fiber connected body in which positions of markers on both end surfaces of the multi-core fiber connected body are swapped.