Optical Amplifier Placement in Passive Optical Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Passive optical networks face challenges in extending reach and split factors due to the need for electrical power access by optical amplifiers, which are typically not available in remote nodes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating optical amplifiers within optical network units (ONUs) that bypass the power splitter, allowing for inline amplification of optical signals in both downstream and upstream directions without requiring electrical power access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If an optical amplifier is inserted in the remote node to extend reach and split factors, then the optical signal transmission distance and network capacity are improved, but the requirement for electrical power supply arises which cannot be met in passive optical networks
Solution Approach 1:
The optical amplifier is extracted from the remote node location and relocated to the optical network unit (ONU) at the customer premises. This extraction removes the amplifier from the passive optical network infrastructure, eliminating the need for electrical power supply at the remote node while maintaining the amplification function where electrical power is readily available.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of placing the amplifier in the traditional location (remote node) to boost signals before distribution, the invention inverts the approach by placing the amplifier at the receiving end (ONU). The amplifier compensates for attenuation after the signal has traversed the optical distribution network, achieving the same extend reach effect without requiring power at the remote node.
2Length of stationary object
If an optical amplifier is added to extend network reach, then the transmission distance is improved, but the device complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical amplifier is integrated into the existing optical network unit (ONU) which is a standard component in PON networks. By making the amplifier part of the multi-functional ONU device rather than a separate infrastructure element, the solution extends reach capability without adding dedicated amplifier infrastructure, power supplies, or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical network unit performs self-amplification of received signals using its internal amplifier. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external amplifier infrastructure, centralized power supply systems, and complex network-wide coordination, thereby reducing overall device complexity while achieving extended reach.
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 extended reach and split factors in passive optical networks by amplifying optical signals within the network units, eliminating the need for electrical power and enhancing signal transmission efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The first optical signal is amplified in the optical amplifier of the first optical network unit to generate an amplified optical signal
Implementation Method 2
A first optical signal is sent in a downstream direction from the optical line terminal to a first circulator from the plurality of circulators. The first optical signal is further sent from the first circulator to a first optical network unit from the plurality of optical network units
Data Source
AI summary
A method for optical signal amplification in an optical communication system is presented. The optical communication system comprises an optical line terminal, a plurality of optical network units, an optical splitter and a plurality of circulators. The optical network units comprise each an optical amplifier. A first optical signal is sent in a downstream direction from the optical line terminal to a first circulator from the plurality of circulators. The first optical signal is further sent from the first circulator to a first optical network unit from the plurality of optical network units and it bypasses the optical splitter. The first optical signal is amplified in the optical amplifier of the first optical network unit to generate an amplified optical signal. The amplified optical signal is sent from the first optical network unit to the first circulator through the optical splitter and is further sent from the first circulator to a further of the plurality of optical network units.