Self-Tuning Optical Module for DWDM Wavelength Provisioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current optical communication systems face challenges with inventory management and installation complexity due to the need for multiple types of fixed optical transceivers in dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) networks, where technicians must manually set wavelengths, leading to inefficiencies and higher costs.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for automatically tuning the wavelength of optical signals using a self-tuning optical module that performs a port deactivation process, activates an automatic wavelength tuning function, determines the tuning success, and deactivates the function once successful, allowing seamless operation across different central office equipment types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If fixed optical transceivers are used with pre-allocated wavelengths, then wavelength stability is improved, but device complexity and inventory management difficulty increase due to needing multiple types of transceivers for DWDM networks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewavelength stabilityVSAvoidinventory management complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by enabling the optical transceiver to dynamically change its operating wavelength parameter. Instead of using fixed wavelength transceivers, the system uses a single transceiver type that can tune to different wavelengths as needed, resolving the contradiction between wavelength stability and inventory complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing a single optical transceiver that can perform multiple wavelength functions. This universal transceiver can operate across the entire DWDM wavelength range, eliminating the need for multiple specialized transceiver types while maintaining reliable wavelength operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If manual wavelength setting is used, then wavelength precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring trained field technicians for installation and replacement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewavelength setting precisionVSAvoidinstallation ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the optical transceiver to automatically perform wavelength tuning without human intervention. The transceiver autonomously identifies the correct wavelength and configures itself, eliminating the need for trained technicians while maintaining precise wavelength settings

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors wavelength conditions and automatically adjusts the transceiver settings based on received feedback signals. This closed-loop control ensures precise wavelength configuration while simplifying operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If automatic wavelength tuning is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability decreases due to lower success rate compared to remote wavelength tuning

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic configuration easeVSAvoidwavelength tuning success rate

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a coordination mechanism between central office equipment and remote optical modules. The central office acts as an intermediary that guides the automatic tuning process, ensuring reliable wavelength configuration while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring wavelength parameters and establishing tuning protocols before the actual wavelength adjustment occurs. This preparation ensures that automatic tuning proceeds reliably without requiring complex real-time decision-making

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If remote wavelength tuning is used, then reliability is improved with centralized control, but ease of operation worsens due to requiring manual wavelength setting at central office

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecentralized control reliabilityVSAvoidmanual configuration effort

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the system to automatically perform wavelength configuration without manual intervention at the central office. The centralized control mechanism autonomously determines and applies the appropriate wavelength settings, maintaining reliable centralized control while eliminating manual configuration effort

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11018760B1Method and apparatus for automatic provisioning of optical module

Publication Date: 2021.05.25 HFR NETWORKS

AI summary

A method and apparatus are provided for tuning a wavelength of an optical signal outputted by first optical module installed on central office terminal (COT) equipment on a central office side and a wavelength of an optical signal outputted by second optical module installed on a remote office side in an optical communication system, which perform port deactivation by blocking a signal input/output at a front-end port corresponding to a rear-end port installed with the first optical module.