ODN Branch Port Identification Using Delayed Uplink Signal Superposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
The connection relationship between branch ports of an optical distribution network (ODN) and optical network units (ONUs) is unclear, making it difficult to determine the topological connection relationship, which increases operation and maintenance costs due to the need for additional components and incompatibility with existing devices.
Innovation Solution
A method involving splitting an uplink optical signal from an ONU into multiple signals with different delays and superimposing them to identify branch ports based on signal changes, using optical splitters, directional couplers, grating structures, or micro-ring resonators without modifying existing ONU devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If additional radio frequency tags are attached to branch ports or branch fibers, then the connection relationship between branch ports and ONUs can be identified, but the operation and maintenance costs significantly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical distribution network uses its existing passive optical components (optical splitters and branch fibers) to automatically identify and mark branch ports through optical signal transmission and superposition, eliminating the need for external tagging systems or manual recording by maintenance personnel
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical signal superposition as an intermediary mechanism that enables the passive optical components to carry identification information naturally, allowing the system to self-identify branch ports without requiring additional active components or external tagging systems
2Loss of information
If additional optical transmitters and receivers are added to OLT or ONU devices, then branch port identification can be achieved through reflection signals, but the equipment cost increases and compatibility with existing ONU devices is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The existing passive optical components in the network (optical splitters and branch fibers) are made to serve the identification function automatically through optical signal superposition, eliminating the need to modify or add components to existing ONU devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the existing passive optical components perform multiple functions: their original function of signal distribution plus the new function of branch port identification through optical signal superposition, without requiring different equipment for different ONU devices
3Loss of information
If manual recording of branch port and ONU correlation is performed, then the connection relationship can be documented, but the operation and maintenance workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs the identification and recording function through optical signal transmission and superposition in the passive optical network, eliminating the need for maintenance personnel to manually record connection relationships
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical recording process with an automated optical signal-based identification system that naturally captures and transmits connection relationship information through the existing optical infrastructure
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 visualization of the ODN network by identifying branch ports and their connections with existing equipment, reducing costs and maintaining compatibility with existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
splitting a first uplink optical signal transmitted by an optical network unit (ONU) connected to a branch port of an ODN, to obtain a plurality of second uplink optical signals
Implementation Method 2
superimposing the second uplink optical signals having undergone signal delay and corresponding to the same branch port of the ODN
Implementation Method 3
superimposing the second uplink optical signals having undergone signal delay and corresponding to the same branch port of the ODN, to obtain a superimposed uplink optical signal corresponding to the branch port of the ODN
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide an identification method for branch ports of an optical distribution network (ODN), and an ODN. The method includes: splitting a first uplink optical signal transmitted by an optical network unit (ONU) connected to a branch port of an ODN, to obtain a plurality of second uplink optical signals; and superimposing the second uplink optical signals having undergone signal delay and corresponding to the same branch port of the ODN, to obtain a superimposed uplink optical signal corresponding to the branch port of the ODN, thereby identifying different branch ports of the ODN according to signal changes corresponding to the superimposed uplink optical signals.