OLTS Calibration Without Cable Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for calibrating optical loss test sets (OLTSs) require disconnecting test cables, leading to inaccuracies and increased error in bi-directional loss measurements in fiber optic cables.
Innovation Solution
A method for calibrating OLTSs using a stabilized light source, where both optical power meters are calibrated without disconnecting the test cables, and the internal light source's power is set using a single calibration cable, maintaining continuous connection to the second test port during calibration and power setting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If test cable is disconnected after referencing light source to power meter, then calibration can be completed, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to connection errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuous connection of the test cable between the light source and power meter throughout the entire calibration and measurement process. The calibration procedure is redesigned to perform all necessary calibration steps (referencing, verifying, and setting power levels) without disconnecting the test cable, thereby eliminating connection errors while completing the calibration process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a calibration cable as an intermediary component that connects to the test cable's connector. This calibration cable with its test ports allows the OLTS to reference the light source to the power meter through a stable, maintained connection, enabling calibration operations without requiring direct disconnection of the test cable from the light source
2Measurement precision
If test cable remains connected during calibration, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but calibration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the calibration procedure into distinct operational phases (initial referencing, verification steps, and power level setting) that can be sequentially executed while maintaining the test cable connection. The calibration cable is segmented with multiple test ports that enable different calibration operations without requiring physical reconfiguration of the test cable connections
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic control of the OLTS system where the light source power level is adjusted and verified in real-time during calibration. The system dynamically switches between different measurement modes and power levels while maintaining the physical connection, allowing complex calibration operations to be performed through controlled parameter changes rather than physical reconfiguration
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
This approach eliminates the need for cable disconnection, reduces measurement errors, and ensures accurate bi-directional loss calculations in fiber optic cables by maintaining consistent connections throughout the calibration and measurement processes.
Implementation Method 1
calibrating a first optical power meter of the OLTS using a stabilized light source
Implementation Method 2
Light is transmitted from the light source through the test cables and fiber optic cable to the power meter
Data Source
AI summary
A method for calibrating an OLTS includes calibrating a first optical power meter of the OLTS using a stabilized light source. The method further includes calibrating a second optical power meter of the OLTS using the stabilized light source. The method further includes setting a power of an internal light source using the calibrated first optical power meter. A calibration cable is connected to a first test port and a second test port during setting of the power level, and a connection of the calibration cord to the second test port is maintained between calibrating of the second optical power meter and setting of the power level.