Parallel Optical Fiber Testing via Unified Instrument Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical technology requires serial testing of multiple transmission mediums, which is time-consuming and inefficient, as each fiber must be tested sequentially using separate instruments that need to be set up and started manually.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using a single test program that allows concurrent testing of multiple transmission mediums by viewing multiple instruments as a single instrument with multiple input and output ports, enabling parallel setup and testing across various mediums like fibers, copper wires, and wireless transmission mediums.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple instruments are used to test multiple transmission mediums, then testing capability is improved, but setup complexity and manual operation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple independent instruments into a single integrated testing system with a unified user interface. Multiple instrument functions are merged into one device that can simultaneously control and monitor multiple transmission mediums, eliminating the need for separate setup procedures for each instrument while maintaining enhanced testing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing system is designed with universal multi-functionality, where a single instrument can perform multiple testing functions across different transmission mediums (optical fibers, copper wires, wireless). The system includes multiple instrument functions that can be selectively activated, allowing one device to replace multiple specialized instruments while reducing setup complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple instruments are used to test multiple transmission mediums, then testing capability is improved, but test time increases due to manual setup and starting of each instrument
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically configuring and preparing all instrument functions before testing begins. The unified setup procedure pre-establishes all necessary parameters and connections for multiple transmission mediums, eliminating the sequential manual setup time that would otherwise be required for each instrument individually.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing system maintains continuous useful action by simultaneously testing multiple transmission mediums without interruption. Once the unified setup is complete, the system continuously performs tests across all instruments and mediums in parallel, maximizing productivity while minimizing total test time through uninterrupted concurrent operation.
3Device complexity
If serial testing of multiple fibers is performed using a single instrument, then device simplicity is maintained, but test time becomes cumulative and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its configuration based on testing requirements. While maintaining a single instrument foundation for simplicity, the system can dynamically activate multiple instrument functions and test channels simultaneously, transforming from sequential operation to parallel operation as needed, thereby reducing cumulative test time without sacrificing device simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of concurrently testing a plurality of transmission mediums, using a testing device incorporating at least one processor and a single test program that allows a user to view multiple instruments as a single instrument with multiple input and output ports, includes setting up a plurality of instrument functions to perform tests on the plurality of transmission mediums using the single test program, and concurrently performing tests on the plurality of transmission mediums using the plurality of instrument functions.