Optical Communication Reflection Hub for LAN Signal Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional optical communication systems are impractical for smaller networks like LANs or vehicle communication systems due to their one-way fiber optic cable operation, requiring multiple cables for two-way communication and complex routing devices.
Innovation Solution
An asynchronous optical communication system utilizing a reflection hub with a diffusive surface to scatter optical signals from one communication module to multiple others, eliminating the need for multiple fiber optic cables and enabling efficient broadcasting within a network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional one-way fiber optic cables are used for optical communication, then high transmission rates are achieved, but multiple cables are required for two-way communication increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple one-way fiber optic cable functions into a single hub device. Multiple communication modules connect to a central hub through individual fiber optic cables, and the hub internally routes signals between modules, eliminating the need for separate cables for each communication pair. This merging approach maintains high transmission rates while dramatically reducing the total number of cables required.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub acts as an intermediary device between communication modules. Instead of direct point-to-point connections requiring multiple cables, each module connects to the hub, which mediates signal routing. The hub receives optical signals from one module and redirects them to the appropriate destination module, enabling two-way communication with a single cable per module.
2Adaptability or versatility
If switches and cross-connects are used to route optical signals, then signal routing is achieved, but device complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hub provides universal signal routing capability for all connected communication modules through a single device. Instead of requiring separate switches or cross-connects for different routing scenarios, the hub internally routes optical signals between any pair of connected modules, consolidating multiple routing functions into one multi-functional device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of switches, cross-connects, and signal routing into a single hub device. The hub integrates signal reception, routing determination, and signal redirection capabilities, eliminating the need for multiple separate routing devices and simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If direct two-way communication between devices is implemented, then communication capability is achieved, but the number of fiber optic cables increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple communication paths into a shared hub infrastructure. Instead of requiring dedicated cable pairs for each communication pair (resulting in 2*(N-1) cables), each device connects to the hub with a single cable, and the hub provides the communication path to any other device. This reduces the total cable quantity from O(N) to O(1) per device.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub provides universal access to all connected devices through a single connection point. Each communication module can communicate with any other module in the network by routing signals through the hub, eliminating the need for dedicated direct connections and reducing the overall number of fiber optic cables required in the system.
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 solution allows for efficient two-way communication in smaller networks with reduced infrastructure needs, enhancing data transmission rates and practicality in confined spaces.
Implementation Method 1
the optical signal is scattered off of the diffusive surface of the reflection hub into the light channels corresponding to the other of the communication modules
Data Source
AI summary
An optical communication system is disclosed. The optical communication system includes a reflection hub connected to a plurality of communication modules. The communication modules communicate optical signals to one another via two way light channels, such that an optical signal is scattered off a diffuse surface at a distal end of the reflection hub and into the two way light channel of each communication module.