Optical Module Calibration Using N-Spline Interpolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical modules for network communication, particularly those using WDM or DWDM devices, transmitters, receivers, or transceivers, face challenges in calibration due to varying device behaviors and constructions, making it inefficient to dedicate production lines or testing stations to specific modules, and requiring calibrated device parameters for proper function.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for calibrating optical modules using an internal logic control unit with non-volatile memory, where control logic is fully coded to characterize devices by determining zones, performing calibration measurements, and generating an N-spline function to interpolate calibrated values across varying conditions, minimizing memory space and overhead.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated production lines or testing stations are dedicated to particular modules or components, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal calibration method that can be applied to multiple different optical devices (transmitters, receivers, transceivers, RF modulators) using a single calibration station. The system uses a generic measurement interface and standardized calibration procedures that work across different device types, eliminating the need for dedicated calibration lines for each device type while maintaining calibration precision through programmable control and automated parameter adjustment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple device parameters are calibrated for various devices, then adaptability is improved, but calibration time and overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary characterization of devices during manufacturing and stores calibration data in non-volatile memory within the device itself. This preliminary action allows the device to retain calibrated parameters without requiring repeated calibration measurements during operation or deployment, significantly reducing calibration time overhead while maintaining the ability to adapt to different operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system continuously monitors and adjusts device parameters during operation, maintaining calibrated states without interrupting normal device function. The system performs calibration measurements and parameter adjustments as part of continuous operation rather than requiring separate calibration cycles, thereby reducing overall calibration time while maintaining comprehensive parameter coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for calibrating an optical module. The optical module including a microprocessor with non-volatile memory is provided at a calibration station for measuring calibrated value of a device parameter against raw values starting from minimum value in each of multiple zones of a primary parameter with one or more secondary parameters at least being set to a basis calibration point to determine coefficients for generating a N-spline function for the multiple zones and multiple multipliers for each zone corresponding to multiple calibration points. The coefficients and multiple multipliers are stored in the non-volatile memory and reused respectively for calculating a basis calibrated value based on any current raw value of the primary parameter a N-spline function in particular zone and for determining a final multiplier by interpolation of the multiple multipliers associated with the one or more secondary parameters, leading to a calibrated value for any condition.