M×N WSS Module Reducing Bulk via Shared Optical Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wavelength-selective optical switch (WSS) modules are limited by having only one input or output port, leading to wavelength-blocking and reliability issues, as they cannot handle multiple instances of wavelength channels and are bulky due to the use of multiple beam deflectors, which increases costs and insertion loss.
Innovation Solution
A M×N WSS module design that allows independent routing of wavelength channels from any input port to any output port using a beam expander arrangement and MEMS micromirror arrays, reducing bulk and optical aberrations by allowing input and output beams to occupy the same space and traverse similar paths, thereby reducing the number of required switching elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional 1×N WSS modules are used, then the device can handle wavelength channel switching, but the device is limited to one input or output port and cannot handle multiple instances of wavelength channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple 1×N WSS modules into a single M×N WSS device by integrating multiple input ports and sharing common optical paths and switching elements. This allows the device to handle multiple input ports and multiple wavelength channel instances simultaneously while reducing overall structural complexity compared to using separate 1×N modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal WSS device that can handle both wavelength channel switching and multiple input/output port operations through a unified optical architecture. The device provides multi-functionality by supporting M input ports and N output ports with a common switching mechanism, eliminating the need for separate 1×N modules for different port configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If M×N WSS are constructed by connecting M×1 and 1×N WSS modules in series or parallel, then multi-port functionality is achieved, but the device becomes wavelength-blocking and has high insertion loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple input ports and output ports into a unified optical path structure where wavelength channels from different input ports can be routed to different output ports simultaneously. This merged architecture eliminates the wavelength-blocking issue inherent in series/parallel connections of separate 1×N modules and reduces cumulative insertion loss by using a single pass through the switching elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from the one-dimensional sequential routing of 1×N modules to a two-dimensional matrix architecture with M input ports and N output ports. This dimensional change enables direct routing between any input and output port pair, eliminating wavelength-blocking constraints and reducing the number of optical passes required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple beam deflectors are used to achieve M×N WSS functionality, then multi-port switching is possible, but the device becomes bulky and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple beam deflectors into a single integrated switching element array that can redirect wavelength channels from M input ports to N output ports. This consolidation reduces the physical bulk of the device while maintaining full M×N switching capability through a shared optical path and unified control mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal switching elements that can perform multiple beam deflection functions simultaneously. A single array of switching elements replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate beam deflectors, providing multi-port switching capability while minimizing device volume through functional integration.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple 1×N WSS modules are interconnected to form M×N WSS, then non-blocking functionality is achieved, but the number of switching elements and costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple switching element arrays into a single integrated M×N switching matrix. This unified structure provides non-blocking functionality by enabling simultaneous independent routing of wavelength channels from any input port to any output port, while reducing the total number of switching elements compared to interconnecting multiple 1×N modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a two-dimensional M×N switching matrix architecture that provides non-blocking functionality through direct routing paths between any input and output port pairs. This dimensional expansion from multiple 1×N modules to a unified M×N matrix reduces the number of switching elements required while maintaining full non-blocking capability.
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
The design enhances the flexibility and reliability of optical networks by enabling independent routing of wavelength channels, reducing bulk and optical aberrations, and minimizing the number of switching elements required, thus improving network performance and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
front-end optics include a beam expander arrangement that provides a common point through which all of the input beams of light pass
Implementation Method 2
a wavelength dispersive element for spatially separating the multiplexed light beam into a plurality of wavelength channel sub-beams
Implementation Method 3
a first switching array including M rows, each row including K switching elements, each switching element in the first switching array for redirecting a different wavelength channel sub-beam incident thereon at a predetermined angle
Data Source
AI summary
A M×N wavelength selective switch (WSS) module capable of independently routing any wavelength channel from any input port to any output port is provided. The M×N WSS includes a first beam relayer including first and second elements having optical power, each of which is disposed such that light transmitted to or from a first plurality of ports passes through a common point. The M×N WSS also includes a wavelength dispersive element, a first switching array having M rows including K switching elements, a second beam relayer, and a second switching array including N switching elements. The second switching array includes an optical by-pass disposed at the common point, which provides means for separating the input and output beams of light, and which allows both the input and output optical beams to traverse similar paths throughout the optical train.