Polarization-Dependent Loss Detection in Optical Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical signal PDL detection apparatuses can only detect the PDL of optical signals, but not accurately detect the PDL of optical devices through which the signals pass, leading to distortion and performance issues in optical fiber communication.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for determining the PDL of an optical device using a polarization-dependent loss determining method, which involves selecting target optical powers that satisfy a power constraint and calculating the PDL based on these powers, allowing for accurate detection and compensation of PDL in optical devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an optical signal passes through an optical device with polarization-dependent loss, then the optical signal can be transmitted, but the optical signal becomes distorted and transmission performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical signal transmission performanceVSAvoidpolarization-dependent loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the PDL detection apparatus continuously monitors the PDL of optical devices and feeds this information back to the system. This enables real-time compensation and adjustment to mitigate the harmful effects of PDL on optical signal transmission performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary PDL detection apparatus that acts as a mediator between the optical signal and the optical device. This intermediary component measures the PDL characteristics and enables the system to compensate for polarization-dependent loss effects, thereby protecting the optical signal from distortion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If an optical signal PDL detection apparatus is used, then the PDL of the optical signal can be detected, but the PDL of the optical device cannot be accurately detected

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovePDL detection accuracyVSAvoiddetection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a universal PDL detection apparatus that can detect the PDL of both optical signals and optical devices. This multi-functional device integrates multiple detection capabilities, allowing it to adapt to different detection needs and accurately measure PDL characteristics regardless of whether the target is an optical signal or an optical device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 method enables accurate determination of the PDL of optical devices, allowing for effective compensation and improvement of optical signal transmission performance in optical fiber communication systems.

Implementation Method 1

a polarization splitter, an optoelectronic detector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPolarization splitting: Polarisation

Implementation Method 2

an optoelectronic detector, and a digital signal processor that are sequentially disposed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP3892977B1Polarization dependent loss determining method, detection system, and optical signal transmission structure
Publication Date: 2025.02.12 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • EP3892977B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3892977B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3892977B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5

AI summary

This application discloses a polarization-dependent loss determining method, a detection system, and an optical signal transmission structure, and pertains to the field of optical communication technologies. The method is applied to a detection system including an optical device, and the method includes: step 101, obtaining two groups of optical powers within first duration; step 102, selecting at least one group of target optical powers that satisfy a same power constraint from the two groups of optical powers, where each group of target optical powers includes a first target power and a second target power from the two groups of optical powers; and step 103, determining a polarization-dependent loss PDL of the optical device based on the at least one group of target optical powers. On a basis of ensuring a function of the optical device, the PDL of the optical device is determined, thereby achieving an effect of accurately detecting the PDL of the optical device.