Optical Distribution Network Layout Using WDM to Cut Splitter Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passive optical networks (PON) experience excessive loss of optical power during direct communication between optical network apparatuses due to the use of splitters, making them unsuitable for single-fiber applications like fiber to the home (FTTH).
Innovation Solution
An optical distribution apparatus with a star-shaped coupling module and wavelength division multiplexing modules is introduced, allowing uplink signals to loop back and combine with downlink signals once, reducing the need for multiple passes through splitters and minimizing optical power loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If splitters are used in optical distribution network for branching/coupling, then optical network can be established, but excessive loss of optical power occurs during direct communication between optical network apparatuses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the working principle from traditional splitter-based power distribution to wavelength division multiplexing-based signal routing. By changing the parameter of signal transmission from single-wavelength power splitting to multi-wavelength selective routing, the system achieves direct communication with minimal power loss while maintaining network functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wavelength division multiplexing modules as intermediary devices that selectively route optical signals based on wavelength. These modules act as mediators between optical network apparatuses, enabling direct communication paths without requiring signals to pass through multiple splitters, thus reducing power loss.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional splitter networking is used, then optical distribution is achieved, but the structure is not applicable to single-fiber applications like FTTH
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal optical distribution structure that can handle both traditional broadcast scenarios and direct communication scenarios within the same single-fiber network. The wavelength division multiplexing modules provide multi-functionality by dynamically routing signals based on wavelength, enabling the system to adapt to different application requirements including FTTH single-fiber scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the optical signal transmission into different wavelength channels, each capable of independent routing. This segmentation allows the system to establish dedicated communication paths for direct communication while maintaining broadcast capabilities for other services, making the network adaptable to single-fiber applications with minimal power loss.
3Loss of energy
If signals pass through splitters multiple times for direct communication, then network connectivity is maintained, but optical power loss increases excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes continuous direct communication paths between optical network apparatuses using wavelength-specific routing. By maintaining continuous signal transmission through dedicated wavelengths without requiring multiple splitter passes, the system minimizes power loss while preserving full direct communication capability between network devices.
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
The proposed solution enables direct communication between optical network apparatuses with reduced optical power loss, facilitating single-fiber scenarios and improving communication efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of wavelength division multiplexing modules, wherein the plurality of wavelength division multiplexing modules are in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of annular members; the wavelength division multiplexing modules are each configured to combine a first downlink optical signal with an uplink optical signal output by the corresponding first side branch interface to the corresponding first connection port
Implementation Method 2
a star-shaped coupling module, wherein two sides of the star-shaped coupling module are respectively provided with a plurality of first side interfaces and a plurality of second side interfaces, and each of the second side interfaces communicates with a plurality of the first side interfaces
Data Source
AI summary
An optical distribution apparatus, an optical distribution network unit, and a network system are disclosed. The optical distribution apparatus comprises: a star-shaped coupling module, which is provided with at least one first public port, a plurality of first side branch interfaces and a plurality of second side interfaces; a plurality of annular members; and wavelength division multiplexing modules arranged in one-to-one correspondence with to the annular members, wherein a third connection port of each annular member is connected to one second side interface; first connection ports each annular members are connected to the first side branch interfaces one by one; and the wavelength division multiplexing modules are each configured to multiplex a first downlink optical signal to a corresponding first connection port, and combine the first downlink optical signal with an uplink optical signal output by the first side branch interface.