Optical Repeater Wavelength Detection via Pilot Signal Reference
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wavelength division multiplexed optical signal transmission systems face errors in detecting the number of wavelengths due to optical noise, especially when multiple repeaters are connected in series, leading to incorrect adjustment and monitoring of signal levels.
Innovation Solution
The system demultiplexes wavelength division multiplexed optical signals into individual wavelengths, processes them based on control optical signals containing wavelength number information, and remultiplexes them to prevent erroneous detection and ensure accurate level adjustment and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If multiple optical repeaters are connected in series to extend transmission distance, then the transmission capability is improved, but optical noise accumulates and causes errors in wavelength detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pilot signal as an intermediary component that travels through all repeaters alongside the data signal. This pilot signal serves as a reference that is not affected by data signal noise, enabling accurate wavelength detection even after multiple repeater amplifications. The pilot signal acts as a mediator between the transmitted data and the detection mechanism, allowing the system to distinguish between actual wavelength shifts and noise-induced variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a copy of the original signal characteristics through the pilot signal, which is injected at the transmitter and replicated through each repeater. This pilot copy maintains a known reference pattern that can be compared against the received signal to detect actual wavelength changes versus noise. By having this reference copy traveling through the same medium, the system can identify and correct for cumulative noise effects.
2Power
If optical signals are amplified through repeaters to maintain signal strength, then the signal level is maintained, but optical noise is amplified along with the signal causing detection errors
Solution Approach 1:
The pilot signal serves as an intermediary reference that is amplified alongside the data signal but maintains its known characteristics. By comparing the pilot signal's wavelength before and after amplification, the system can determine the actual amplification effect and compensate for noise. The pilot acts as a mediator that separates the useful signal information from the noise introduced during amplification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the pilot signal to create a feedback mechanism where the detected wavelength of the pilot is compared against its original wavelength. This feedback information about actual amplification and noise effects is used to adjust and correct the detection of data signal wavelengths, compensating for the noise accumulated during the amplification process through multiple repeaters.
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 accurate detection of the number of wavelengths and proper adjustment and monitoring of signal levels, even in the presence of optical noise, preventing false representations and ensuring reliable transmission.
Implementation Method 1
demultiplexing a wavelength division multiplexed optical signal transmitted from an upstream device into optical signals each having a different wavelength
Implementation Method 2
transmitting a wavelength division multiplexed optical signal to a downstream device through optical fibers
Data Source
AI summary
A wavelength division multiplexed optical signal transmission method, a wavelength division multiplexed optical signal transmission system and an optical repeater enabling the number of wavelengths to be detected without error even when optical noise is caused in the optical repeater and such functions as adjustment and monitoring of the level of a wavelength division multiplexed optical signal to be performed properly. An optical repeater processes controlled optical signals of different wavelengths individually based on a control optical signal that contains wavelength number information indicating the total number of wavelengths and the presence or absence of a controlled optical signal with respect to each wavelength. Thus, even when optical noise is caused in the optical repeater, the number of wavelengths can be detected without error and such functions as adjustment and monitoring of the level of a wavelength division multiplexed optical signal can be performed properly.