Wavelength Equalizing Arrays for Compact Optical Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing bandwidth needs of end customers require new optical processing equipment that can manipulate optical signals at lower cost points closer to the customers, necessitating advanced optical signal processing integration.
Innovation Solution
A compact light processing apparatus using wavelength equalizing arrays to provide optical signal manipulation, including a multi-degree optical node with directionless add/drop ports and wavelength equalizing arrays for selecting wavelengths and performing directionless steering, integrated into a ROADM circuit pack for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional optical processing equipment is used to meet increasing bandwidth needs, then optical signal manipulation capability is improved, but equipment cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple optical processing functions (wavelength selection, directionless steering, add/drop operations) into a single integrated optical node using wavelength equalizing arrays. This consolidation reduces the number of separate equipment components while maintaining enhanced signal manipulation capabilities, directly addressing the contradiction between improved adaptability and reduced device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The optical node is designed with multi-functional capabilities where the wavelength equalizing array performs multiple operations simultaneously: wavelength selection for different optical degrees, directionless steering for add/drop ports, and channel monitoring. This universal design allows a single device to provide comprehensive optical signal manipulation without requiring multiple specialized components, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity
2Reliability
If equipment redundancy is increased to ensure reliability, then system reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions that would traditionally require separate redundant equipment into a single optical node. The wavelength equalizing array consolidates wavelength selection, steering, and monitoring functions, reducing the number of equipment units needed while maintaining system reliability through integrated design rather than through redundancy of separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-functional optical node design allows a single device to perform operations that would traditionally require multiple specialized devices. By making the optical node universal in its capabilities, the system achieves reliability through functional integration rather than through redundant equipment, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining reliability
Data Source
AI summary
Example embodiments of the present invention relate to optical wavelength directing devices used to construct compact optical nodes.