Remote Optical Path Switching Node for Point-to-Point Fiber Confirmation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In optical fiber networks, particularly in access networks, point-to-point connections make it difficult to confirm the switching of optical fibers using test beams, especially in loop networks connected in multiple stages.
Innovation Solution
A remote optical path switching node is used to connect two loop networks, incorporating a test optical fiber, a test optical coupler, an optical cross-connect, and a control unit to facilitate the transmission and detection of test beams, enabling confirmation of optical fiber connections even in point-to-point configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If point-to-point connection is performed in optical fiber networks, then connection efficiency is improved, but confirmation of optical fiber switching becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a test optical coupler as an intermediary device that enables test beams to access optical fibers in point-to-point connections. The test optical coupler connects the test optical fiber to the optical fiber being tested, allowing the tester to send test beams through the optical cross-connect to confirm switching status without disrupting the actual communication signal transmission.
2Reliability
If test beams are transmitted from housing stations to remote optical path switching nodes, then optical fiber switching can be confirmed in loop networks, but confirmation fails in point-to-point connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the test optical coupler with multiple ports (first port, second port, third port, fourth port) that can adapt to different connection configurations. The test optical coupler can connect to optical fibers in both loop networks and point-to-point connections, making the testing system universally applicable to various network topologies and connection modes without requiring separate testing mechanisms.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If additional facilities are installed to enable test beam transmission, then confirmation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the testing function with the existing optical path switching node structure. The test optical coupler is integrated into the node, sharing the same physical space and control mechanisms with the optical cross-connect. This integration allows the testing functionality to be achieved without adding separate, independent facilities, thereby limiting the increase in device 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
The solution allows for efficient confirmation of optical fiber connections without the need for additional facilities or user consent, reducing operational inefficiencies and enabling timely detection of port information.
Implementation Method 1
a test optical coupler connected to a test optical fiber through which a test beam propagates in the upper loop and which is connectable to the optical cross-connect
Implementation Method 2
a light extraction unit configured to detect a test beam propagating in the upper loop and emitted from the test optical coupler or the optical cross-connect
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a remote optical path switching node connects two loop networks in which optical fibers are connected in a loop form. The two loop networks include an upper loop close to a tester that emits a test beam and lower loops away from the tester. The remote optical path switching node includes: an optical cross-connect connected to an optical fiber included in the lower loop; a test optical coupler connected to a test optical fiber through which a test beam propagates in the upper loop and which is connectable to the optical cross-connect; a control unit configured to control the connection between the optical cross-connect and the test optical coupler; and a light extraction unit configured to detect a test beam propagating in the upper loop and emitted from the test optical coupler or the optical cross-connect.