Multi-Core Fiber Bundle Layout for Optical Path Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical switches are unable to perform switching operations in multi-core fiber systems, which are necessary for advanced data transmission networks.
Innovation Solution
An optical fiber bundle and switch design that includes a ferrule holding multiple multi-core fibers arranged in a specific pattern, allowing for switching by inserting and ejecting a prism between the fibers and a mirror, enabling connection destination selection among the fibers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional optical switches are used, then switching operations can be performed in single-core fiber systems, but switching operations cannot be performed in multi-core fiber systems
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the fiber bundle into four quadrants by arranging multi-core fibers in a 4×4 matrix pattern, with each quadrant containing specific core positions. This segmentation allows independent control and switching of different fiber groups, enabling multi-core fiber switching capability while maintaining manageable structural complexity through systematic organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs asymmetric core positioning within the multi-core fibers, where cores are arranged at specific non-uniform positions rather than symmetric patterns. This asymmetric arrangement enables differentiation between various fiber paths and facilitates precise optical switching by creating unique spatial signatures for each fiber connection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple multi-core fibers are bundled together, then the range of optical fiber selection is widened, but the arrangement precision requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a universal ferrule structure with a standardized 4×4 core arrangement pattern that can accommodate multiple multi-core fibers with different specifications. This universal design allows the same ferrule structure to work with various fiber types and configurations, widening the selection range while maintaining consistent manufacturing precision requirements through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a ferrule as an intermediary component that holds and positions the multi-core fibers. The ferrule acts as a mediator between the fibers and the switching mechanism, providing precise positioning and alignment while allowing the fibers themselves to maintain their inherent characteristics. This intermediary structure simplifies the overall arrangement precision requirements by centralizing the positioning function in the ferrule rather than requiring precise fiber-to-fiber alignment.
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 switching of connection destinations in multi-core fiber systems, widening the range of optical fiber selection with good characteristics and facilitating efficient data routing.
Implementation Method 1
a prism inserted into and ejected from an optical path of the light L emitted from the optical fiber bundle (20)
Implementation Method 2
a mirror (15) and a prism (10) inserted into and ejected from an optical path of the light L emitted from the optical fiber bundle (20)
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, in an optical fiber bundle, in the cross section, arrangement of cores of a first multi-core fiber and arrangement of cores of a second multi-core fiber are the same as each other, arrangement of cores of a third multi-core fiber and arrangement of cores of a fourth multi-core fiber are the same as each other, and when the first multi-core fiber is rotated 180° in a circumferential direction of the first multi-core fiber, the arrangement of the cores of the first multi-core fiber is the same as the arrangement of the cores of the fourth multi-core fiber.