Multi-core fiber with distinct core standards

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multi-core fibers face challenges in increasing space density while conforming to optical propagation standards, as uniform refractive index differences between cores limit versatility and density.

Innovation Solution

Designing multi-core fibers with cores that conform to different optical propagation standards, allowing for sufficient refractive index differences between adjacent cores, thereby increasing space density while maintaining versatility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If uniform refractive index differences are used between cores, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but space density and versatility are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveversatilityVSAvoidcomplexity of refractive index configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by assigning different refractive index characteristics to different cores within the multi-core fiber. Specifically, some cores have first refractive index characteristics while others have second refractive index characteristics, allowing each core to be optimized for specific functions or standards while maintaining overall system integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Quantity of substance

If cores are arranged at high density, then space density increases, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of cores per claddingVSAvoidprecision of core positioning and refractive index control

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs parameter changes by varying the refractive index characteristics across different cores rather than maintaining uniform parameters. This allows for differentiated optical properties that can accommodate higher core densities while managing manufacturing tolerances through deliberate parameter variation rather than requiring extreme precision across all cores.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If different optical standards are applied to different cores, then versatility and space density improve, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with different optical standardsVSAvoidease of manufacturing multi-core fiber

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the multi-core fiber into distinct groups of cores, where each group is assigned specific refractive index characteristics corresponding to different optical standards. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing processes for each group while achieving overall system versatility through the combination of different standard-compliant cores.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11474292B2Multi-core fibers and method of manufacturing the same, and optical transmission system and optical transmission method

Publication Date: 2022.10.18 FURUKAWA ELECTRIC CO LTD

AI summary

A multi-core fiber includes: a plurality of cores; and a cladding portion formed around outer peripheries of the cores. Further, the cores each have a propagation characteristic conforming to any one of a plurality of standards for optical propagation characteristics, and of the cores, cores that are closest to each other conform to standards different from each other.