Optical Switching via OAM Mode Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical switching apparatuses in WDM networks face congestion issues due to complex structures and require stable environments, and are not effectively applicable to OAM networks.
Innovation Solution
An optical switching apparatus utilizing N input ports, N OAM modulators, and an OAM splitter to modulate and demultiplex optical signals based on orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes, allowing for simple structure and low environmental stability requirements, applicable to both WDM and OAM networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a cross-bar structure optical switch is used to achieve wavelength dimension switching, then the switching capacity is improved, but the structure becomes complex causing channel crosstalk and congestion
Solution Approach 1:
The optical switching apparatus segments the switching function into two independent dimensions: spatial dimension (using lens array and microlens array to divide input/output ports) and wavelength dimension (using diffraction grating and wavelength-selective switches). This segmentation avoids the need for complex cross-bar structures while achieving high switching capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional approach by using diffraction grating to separate wavelengths spatially, creating a wavelength-space mapping. This allows wavelength switching to be achieved through spatial separation rather than complex electrical control of multiple switch units, reducing structural complexity while maintaining switching capacity.
2Reliability
If a 3D-MEMS optical switch based on micromirror reflection technology is used, then the switching performance is improved, but the device becomes susceptible to mechanical vibration requiring additional vibration absorbent measures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical micromirror reflection system with an optical diffraction-based system. Instead of using mechanically movable mirrors that are susceptible to vibration, the invention uses diffraction grating and lens arrays to achieve wavelength and spatial separation, eliminating mechanical moving parts and their associated vibration problems while maintaining switching performance.
3Reliability
If more small switch units are added to the cross-bar structure to reduce crosstalk, then the switching performance is improved, but the structure becomes more complex and congestion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the switching function into independent spatial and wavelength dimensions. The spatial dimension is handled by lens arrays that physically separate光束 paths, while wavelength switching is achieved through diffraction grating. This segmentation eliminates the need for multiple overlapping switch units, reducing structural complexity and congestion while maintaining low crosstalk performance.
4Reliability
If algorithm optimization is performed on the cross-bar structure to improve switching performance, then the crosstalk is reduced, but the structure remains complex and congestion problems persist
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex controlled switching mechanism of the cross-bar structure with a passive optical system based on diffraction and lens focusing. The diffraction grating automatically separates wavelengths spatially, and the lens array automatically focuses beams to appropriate output ports. This substitution eliminates the need for complex control algorithms while achieving low crosstalk and reducing structural complexity.
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 optical signal switching without congestion, supporting high-capacity and stable operation in various network environments by leveraging OAM technology for signal routing and demultiplexing.
Implementation Method 1
a first OAM modulator that is of the N OAM modulators and is corresponding to the first input port is configured to modulate the first optical signal into an optical signal of a first OAM mode corresponding to the first output port
Implementation Method 2
the OAM splitter is configured to transmit the first optical signal to the first output port according to the first OAM mode of the first optical signal modulated by the first OAM modulator
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses an optical switching apparatus, an optical cross-connect node, and an optical signal switching method. The optical switching apparatus includes: N input ports, N OAM modulators in a one-to-one correspondence with the N input ports, an OAM splitter, and M output ports, where the M output ports are in a one-to-one correspondence with M OAM modes; a first input port of the input ports is configured to input a first optical signal, a target output port of the first optical signal is a first output port; a first OAM modulator corresponding to the first input port modulates the first optical signal into an optical signal of a first OAM mode corresponding to the first output port; the OAM splitter transmits, to the first output port, the first optical signal received from the first OAM modulator; and the first output port outputs the first optical signal.