Redundant WDM Device with Shared Filters for Compact Bandwidth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber-optic networks face challenges in increasing bandwidth without laying additional fiber-optic cables and require redundancy to improve service quality, particularly at multiplexing/demultiplexing locations, where space constraints are a concern.
Innovation Solution
A redundant wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) device is designed to process two optical beams in parallel using a reduced number of filters, allowing for compactness and redundancy without duplicating existing devices, by arranging filters and ports in a configuration that enables simultaneous processing of multiple signals across two optical paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional WDM devices are deployed to increase bandwidth, then bandwidth capacity is improved, but device size and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate WDM devices (primary and redundant) into a single integrated device housing. The primary WDM device and redundant WDM device are positioned adjacent to each other within the same housing, sharing common structural elements and optical components. This merging approach provides redundancy for bandwidth capacity while reducing the total space required compared to deploying two separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated WDM device housing serves multiple functions: it houses both the primary WDM device and the redundant WDM device, provides common mounting structures for optical components, and enables both devices to share the same physical space. This multi-functionality allows the device to provide bandwidth capacity and redundancy simultaneously while minimizing footprint.
2Reliability
If redundant WDM devices are deployed to improve service quality, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the primary and redundant WDM devices into a single integrated structure with shared housing and common optical component mounting. This combination provides redundancy for improved service quality while reducing structural complexity compared to deploying two fully separate devices with independent housings and mounting structures.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional WDM devices are deployed at network locations, then bandwidth capacity is provided, but space constraints are exacerbated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines primary and redundant WDM functionality into a single space-efficient device that can be deployed at network locations. By integrating both devices into one housing with shared structural elements, the solution provides full bandwidth capacity with redundancy while occupying minimal space at constrained network locations.
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 provides increased redundancy and compactness, reducing the footprint and volume of the WDM device, enhancing service quality and bandwidth while addressing space constraints at network locations.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the eight filters 12 has a passband that passes a range of wavelengths that includes the wavelength λn of a respective one of the optical signals 14 and excludes the wavelengths λn of the other optical signals 14. In this way, each filter 12 transmits the optical signal 14 having the wavelength λn that falls within its passband and reflects the optical signals 14 having wavelengths λn that fall outside its passband.
Implementation Method 2
a common port 18, a plurality of channel ports 19-26, an optional upgrade port (UPG) 27, and a plurality of collimators 38. An optical fiber 40 associated with the common port 18 carries the optical beam 44 into or from the WDM device 10.
Data Source
AI summary
A redundant wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) device including a first common port which includes a collimator configured to transmit a first optical beam. The first beam includes a first plurality of optical signals. A second common port includes a collimator configured to transmit a second optical beam that includes a second plurality of optical signals. The second common port is spaced apart from the first common port and a plurality of filters define an optical path for each of the first optical beam and the second optical beam. Each filter is oriented to interact with each of the first optical beam and the second optical beam. A method of processing light includes transmitting one of the first optical signals of a first wavelength through a first filter and transmitting one of the second optical signals of the first wavelength through the first filter.