Optical Vector Analysis via Double-Sideband Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for optical vector analysis face challenges in achieving ideal single sideband modulation, leading to limited dynamic range and accuracy in determining the transfer function of optical devices at various operating frequencies.
Innovation Solution
The system employs an optical signal generator to produce multiple carrier frequencies, with an optical to electrical converter and data processor to determine the transfer function by generating and processing electrical currents from both unpassed and passed radiation through the Device Under Test (DUT), allowing for precise analysis at specific nominal carrier frequencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If single sideband modulation is used for optical vector analysis, then the analysis can be performed, but the dynamic range and accuracy are limited due to inability to completely eliminate one sideband
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical signal into multiple independent carrier frequencies (first carrier frequency and second carrier frequency) with their respective sidebands. By treating each carrier-frequency pair independently and measuring both sidebands separately, the system achieves complete sideband elimination while maintaining measurement accuracy. This segmentation allows the optical vector analyzer to process each frequency component independently, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If traditional single sideband modulation method is used, then the optical vector analysis can be performed, but the dynamic range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by generating multiple carrier frequencies with known phase relationships before the optical signal passes through the device under test. The optical vector analyzer is pre-configured to measure both sidebands of each carrier frequency pair. This preliminary preparation enables complete sideband elimination and extends the dynamic range by ensuring that all frequency components are systematically measured with high reliability.
3Measurement precision
If multiple carrier frequencies are used to enhance analysis accuracy, then the transfer function can be determined more precisely, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal optical signal generation approach where a single optical vector analyzer is configured to handle multiple carrier frequencies and their sidebands through a standardized measurement process. The analyzer uses the same measurement mechanism for all frequency components, eliminating the need for separate measurement systems for each carrier frequency. This multi-functionality approach enhances analysis accuracy while avoiding proportional increases in system 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
This approach enhances the accuracy and dynamic range of optical vector analysis, enabling better characterization of optical devices by isolating and analyzing the transfer function at distinct frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
The single sideband modulation may be implemented by performing double sideband modulation on the optical signal
Implementation Method 2
an optical to electrical converter optically coupled to the optical signal generator, wherein the optical to electrical converter is configured to: generate a first electrical current based on the first radiation and the second radiation
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprises an optical signal generator configured to provide a first radiation comprising a first nominal carrier frequency and a second nominal carrier frequency, and provide a second radiation comprising a third nominal carrier frequency and a fourth nominal carrier frequency; an optical to electrical converter coupled to the optical signal generator and configured to: generate a first electrical current based on the first radiation and the second radiation without the second radiation passing through the Device under Test (DUT); and generate a second electrical current based on the first radiation and the second radiation after the second radiation passes through the DUT; and a data processor configured to determine a transfer function of the DUT at the third nominal carrier frequency and the fourth nominal carrier frequency based on the first electrical current and the second electrical current.