Optical Channel Identification Using Programmable Light Source
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for identifying channels in optical networks are inefficient and impractical for field use, as they require expensive optical spectrum analyzers and are time-consuming, making it difficult for on-site personnel to verify proper signal transmission and multiplexing/demultiplexing.
Innovation Solution
A programmable light generator and receiver system that generates and encodes wavelengths of light with frequency, power, and identification information, which are then multiplexed and demultiplexed through the optical network to identify channels accurately and determine insertion loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional optical spectrum analyzers are used for channel identification, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simplified light source that generates wavelengths corresponding to channel center frequencies as a copy or representation of the actual optical signals, eliminating the need for expensive optical spectrum analyzers while maintaining channel identification capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, complex optical spectrum analyzers with inexpensive, programmable light sources that can be easily deployed and replaced in field conditions
2Measurement precision
If conventional channel identification methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-generates wavelengths corresponding to all possible channel center frequencies, allowing for rapid channel identification without time-consuming spectral analysis during field operations
Solution Approach 2:
The programmable light source cycles through different wavelengths periodically, enabling fast sequential channel identification across the optical spectrum
3Productivity
If multiple wavelengths are multiplexed for channel identification, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The programmable light source serves multiple functions: generating identification wavelengths, modulating information onto wavelengths, and adapting to different channel configurations, reducing the need for separate specialized devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines wavelength generation, modulation, and multiplexing capabilities into a single integrated programmable light source system, simplifying the overall device architecture
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 allows for efficient and on-site verification of channel identification and insertion loss determination, reducing the need for expensive equipment and streamlining the process for field personnel.
Implementation Method 1
A light source can be configured to generate a plurality of wavelengths of light
Implementation Method 2
An optical signal modulator can be coupled to the light source and configured to modulate the plurality of wavelengths of light to encode frequency information associated with the plurality of wavelengths of light onto the plurality of wavelengths of light
Implementation Method 3
An optical multiplexer can multiplex (combine) various wavelengths of light into a multiplexed light signal
Implementation Method 4
An optical signal demodulator can be configured to receive a wavelength of light and demodulate the wavelength of light to decode frequency information encoded in the wavelength of light
Implementation Method 5
An optical power meter can be coupled to the optical signal demodulator and configured to measure optical power of the wavelength of light
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprising a generator and a receiver. The generator can be coupled to an optical network. The generator can be configured to generate a plurality of wavelengths of light. The plurality of wavelengths of light can be continuously cycled. The plurality of wavelengths of light can be modulated to encode information onto the plurality of wavelengths of light. The plurality of wavelengths of light can be multiplexed into a multiplexed light signal. The multiplexed light signal can be provided to a first wavelength division multiplexer of the optical network. The receiver can be coupled to the generator and the optical network. The receiver can be configured to receive a demultiplexed wavelength of light from a second wavelength division multiplexer of the optical network. The demultiplexed wavelength of light can be demodulated to decode information encoded onto the demultiplexed wavelength of light. Optical power of the demultiplexed wavelength of light can be measured. The decoded information and the optical power can be provided for display through an interface.