Optical Vector Analysis Using Dual-Carrier Spectrum
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the transfer function of optical devices at various operating frequencies are limited in accuracy and efficiency, particularly in characterizing characteristics like insertion loss, dispersion, and polarization mode dispersion.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method utilizing an optical detecting signal generator to produce an optical spectrum with two frequency carriers, an optical to electrical converter to generate electrical currents before and after the signal passes through a device under test, and a data processor to calculate the transfer function at the average of the carrier frequencies, enabling precise determination of optical device characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional single-frequency methods are used to determine transfer function, then measurement simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical spectrum into multiple discrete frequency carriers (at least two different frequencies). By measuring the transfer function at each frequency carrier separately and then combining the results, the system achieves comprehensive multi-frequency characterization while maintaining manageable measurement complexity through structured signal generation and processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic modulation of optical signals at different frequency carriers to enable time-domain separation of measurements. By using periodic actions at distinct frequencies, the system can isolate and measure transfer function characteristics at each frequency point while efficiently utilizing the measurement apparatus
2Measurement precision
If multi-frequency measurements are performed separately, then measurement precision improves, but measurement time and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple frequency measurements into a single integrated optical signal that contains at least two frequency carriers simultaneously. This allows the measurement system to capture transfer function information at multiple frequencies in one measurement cycle, significantly improving productivity while maintaining the precision benefits of multi-frequency analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous measurement of transfer function across multiple frequencies by maintaining uninterrupted optical signal transmission through the device under test. The system continuously processes signals at different frequency carriers without requiring separate measurement cycles, thereby eliminating idle time and improving overall measurement efficiency
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 and efficient determination of optical device transfer functions, improving the characterization of insertion loss, dispersion, and polarization mode dispersion, enhancing the understanding and optimization of optical device performance across different frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
an optical to electrical converter configured to: generate a first electrical current based on the optical spectrum without the optical spectrum passing through the DUT; and generate a second electrical current based on the optical spectrum after the optical spectrum passes through the DUT
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprises an optical detecting signal generator configured to provide an optical spectrum comprising two frequency carriers, the two frequency carriers having two different nominal carrier frequencies, and the output port of the optical detecting signal generator being further configured to be coupled to a device under test (DUT); an optical to electrical converter configured to generate a first electrical current based on the optical spectrum without the optical spectrum passing through the DUT; and generate a second electrical current based on the optical spectrum after the optical spectrum passes through the DUT; and a data processor coupled to the optical to electrical converter, the data processor being configured to determine a transfer function of the DUT at an average of the two different nominal carrier frequencies based on the first electrical current and the second electrical current.