Optical Switching Matrix for Low-Loss Wavelength Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wavelength path multiplexing/demultiplexing systems require high-performance and high-cost wavelength variable filters, leading to increased apparatus size, reduced reliability, and higher costs due to the need for multiple filters to manage arbitrary wavelengths, especially in optical communication systems using direct modulation.
Innovation Solution
A wavelength path multiplexing/demultiplexing apparatus that uses AWGs, optical matrix switches, and optical switches to connect transponders to arbitrary paths and wavelengths without the need for wavelength variable filters, reducing loss, cost, and size by employing a control unit to manage the switching of optical paths and wavelengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wavelength variable filters are used to manage arbitrary wavelengths, then transponders can receive specific wavelengths, but apparatus size increases, reliability decreases, and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical wavelength variable filters with an optical switching system comprising optical switches and AWGs. The optical switches route optical signals through different paths, and the AWGs perform wavelength demultiplexing, eliminating the need for mechanical filter components and improving system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical switches and AWGs serve multiple functions: the optical switches perform both path routing and wavelength selection, while the AWGs simultaneously demultiplex wavelengths and direct them to appropriate transponders. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wavelength variable filters are used to manage arbitrary wavelengths, then transponders can receive specific wavelengths, but apparatus cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive mechanical wavelength variable filters with optical switches and AWGs, which are more cost-effective to manufacture and integrate. The optical switching mechanism and waveguide-based AWGs offer better scalability and lower per-unit costs compared to precision mechanical filters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of wavelength selection, path routing, and signal demultiplexing into integrated optical components. The optical switches and AWGs work together as a unified system, reducing the total component count and manufacturing complexity compared to using separate wavelength variable filters for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wavelength variable filters are used to manage arbitrary wavelengths, then transponders can receive specific wavelengths, but loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical wavelength variable filters with optical switches and AWGs that use waveguide-based routing mechanisms. These optical components introduce lower insertion loss compared to mechanical filters, as they rely on waveguide coupling and interference effects rather than mechanical aperture adjustments, thereby reducing optical signal loss.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wavelength variable filters are used to manage arbitrary wavelengths, then transponders can receive specific wavelengths, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical switches and AWGs serve multiple functions simultaneously: the optical switches perform both path routing and wavelength selection, while the AWGs simultaneously demultiplex wavelengths and direct them to appropriate transponders. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of wavelength selection, path routing, and signal demultiplexing into integrated optical components. The optical switches and AWGs work together as a unified system, reducing the total component count and manufacturing complexity compared to using separate wavelength variable filters for each function.
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 solution enables efficient, cost-effective, and reliable connection of transponders to arbitrary paths and wavelengths with low loss, reducing the need for expensive filters and improving integration and reliability of optical circuits.
Implementation Method 1
a demultiplexing port to which the wavelength multiplexed light is demultiplexed into lights having different wavelengths based on the wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
In order to connect a path and a transponder with low loss, reduce an apparatus cost, reduce an apparatus size, and improve a reliability of an apparatus, a wavelength path multiplexing/demultiplexing apparatus comprises multiplexing/demultiplexing unit having a multiplexing port through which a wavelength multiplexed light is inputted and outputted and a demultiplexing port in which the wavelength multiplexed light is demultiplexed into the lights included in the wavelength multiplexed light based on the wavelength and through which the light is inputted and outputted and first switch unit which have a first port to which the demultiplexing port is connected and a second port and connect the second port to one of the first ports; and the demultiplexing port is connected to the first port of each of the first switch unit and the first port is connected to the demultiplexing port of each of the multiplexing/demultiplexing unit.