Optical Splitter Fused Length for Crosstalk Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical communication systems using WDM for service multiplexing in FTTH networks face signal quality degradation due to linear crosstalk, particularly when providing services on a per-area basis, which increases costs and system size due to the need for WDM filters with different transmission characteristics at output ends of optical splitters.
Innovation Solution
The system controls the fused extension length of fiber optical splitters to selectively manage output wavelengths for each port, utilizing wavelength dependence to limit wavelengths received by optical receivers without the need for WDM filters, thereby preventing signal quality degradation and cost/size increases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If WDM filters with different transmission characteristics are installed at output ends of optical splitters to provide services on a per-area basis, then service differentiation is achieved, but cost and system size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the wavelength selection function from separate WDM filter components and integrates it into the optical splitter itself. By controlling the fused extension length of the optical splitter, different wavelength components are directed to different output ports, achieving service differentiation without requiring additional WDM filters at each output end.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical splitter is designed to perform multiple functions: it simultaneously provides wavelength-based service differentiation and signal distribution. By adjusting the fused extension length, the same optical splitter can route different wavelengths to different areas, eliminating the need for separate WDM filters and reducing system complexity.
2Reliability
If WDM filters are installed at output ends of optical splitters to prevent linear crosstalk, then signal quality is maintained, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the need for separate WDM filter components by extracting the wavelength selection function and embedding it within the optical splitter's fusion structure. The fused extension length control enables wavelength-based routing that prevents linear crosstalk without requiring additional filter hardware at each output port.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical splitter performs self-service by inherently providing wavelength-based signal separation through its fused structure. The controlled fusion length enables the splitter to automatically route different wavelengths to appropriate output ports based on the service requirements of each area, eliminating the need for external WDM filters.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wavelengths are provided to all areas, then service coverage is maximized, but terminal cost increases due to multiple PDs required in ONU
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different wavelength services to different geographic areas based on their specific needs. The optical splitter routes only the necessary wavelengths to each area's ONU, allowing terminals to use fewer PDs matched to the local service requirements rather than requiring all possible wavelengths everywhere.
Solution Approach 2:
The service coverage is segmented by area rather than uniformly provided to all regions. The optical splitter divides the wavelength distribution according to area-specific service requirements, enabling each ONU to receive only the wavelengths needed for its local services, thereby reducing terminal costs through optimized PD configurations.
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 effectively prevents signal quality degradation from linear crosstalk while reducing costs and system size by selectively controlling output wavelengths using the wavelength dependence of optical splitters, allowing for efficient service provision on a per-area basis without the need for additional filters.
Implementation Method 1
controls a fused extension length of a fiber optical splitter, and thereby selectively controls an output wavelength (service) for each output port by using wavelength dependence of an optical splitter
Data Source
AI summary
An object is to provide an optical communication system and an optical communication method that are capable of, when assigning wavelengths on a per-service basis and providing services on a per-area basis, preventing degradation of signal quality due to linear crosstalk and preventing an increase in cost and size. An optical communication system according to the present invention includes an optical splitter 300 connecting N first ports and M second ports by a combination of 2×2 fiber optical splitters, N and M each being an integer of two or more, where wavelengths of optical signals to be received are limited for each group of optical receivers 106, by using a correlation between a fused extension length of at least one 2×2 fiber optical splitter directly connected to the first port, among the 2×2 fiber optical splitters, and wavelength output characteristics of the second port of the optical splitter 300.