Wavelength Locking Optical Module with DSP-Controlled TEC and ROSA Filter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wavelength locking devices in optical communication systems, such as those used in DWDM, have complex structures and high costs due to the need for multiple components like beam splitters and backlight detectors, which complicates manufacturing and increases size, making them unsuitable for miniaturization.
Innovation Solution
A wavelength locking optical module comprising a DSP unit, TOSA, and ROSA, where a TEC in the TOSA adjusts the emission wavelength based on control signals from the DSP unit, and an optical filter in the ROSA monitors wavelength changes, simplifying the structure and combining signal processing and detection functions to reduce volume and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional wave locker with beam splitter and backlight detectors is placed in the TOSA, then wavelength locking function is achieved, but the structure becomes complex, volume increases, and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The wavelength monitoring function is extracted from the TOSA and relocated to the ROSA. The ROSA now contains the optical filter and photodetector for wavelength monitoring, while the TOSA is simplified to only contain the laser source and TEC for wavelength adjustment, eliminating the need for beam splitters and backlight detectors in the TOSA
Solution Approach 2:
The DSP unit serves as an intermediary that receives wavelength monitoring data from the ROSA, processes the wavelength deviation information, and generates control signals to adjust the TEC in the TOSA, thereby indirectly achieving wavelength locking without direct monitoring components in the TOSA
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple components (beam splitter, wavelength selection filter, two backlight detectors) are arranged in the TOSA, then precise wavelength control is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes complicated and production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical module is segmented into two functional units: TOSA for wavelength generation and adjustment, and ROSA for wavelength monitoring. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized independently, with the ROSA containing all the complex monitoring components (optical filter, photodetector) and the TOSA being simplified for easier manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses standard, readily available components such as commercial optical filters and photodetectors in the ROSA, replacing the need for custom-designed beam splitters and specialized backlight detectors in the TOSA, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
3Reliability
If the TOSA contains beam splitter and multiple detectors for wavelength monitoring, then wavelength stability is improved, but the package size increases and miniaturization is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The wavelength monitoring subsystem is extracted from the TOSA and integrated into the ROSA. The ROSA now houses the optical filter and photodetector for wavelength detection, while the TOSA is reduced to essential components only (laser source, TEC), dramatically reducing TOSA volume and enabling miniaturization
Solution Approach 2:
The wavelength monitoring function is merged with the existing ROSA structure. The optical filter and photodetector are integrated into the ROSA's optical path, utilizing the same housing and mounting structures already present in the receiver assembly, thereby avoiding additional volume increase
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
This configuration simplifies the TOSA structure, reduces volume, facilitates miniaturization, and lowers production costs while effectively stabilizing laser wavelengths in DWDM systems, addressing the issue of wavelength instability.
Implementation Method 1
the optical filter is used to filter the light entering the ROSA through the TOSA, such that the light with a preset wavelength is converted into an electrical signal
Implementation Method 2
a TEC is arranged in the TOSA, and is used to adjust a temperature according to a control signal transmitted from the DSP unit, and then to adjust a emission wavelength of the TOSA
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the technical field of optical communications, and particularly relates to a wavelength locking optical module, a device, and a wavelength locking method. The optical module comprises a DSP unit, a TOSA, and a ROSA. The DSP unit has a signal output terminal connected to the TOSA and a signal input terminal connected to the ROSA. A TEC is provided within the TOSA, and is used to adjust a temperature according to a control signal sent from the DSP unit and accordingly adjust a emission wavelength of the TOSA. An optical filter is provided within the ROSA and used to filter a wave, such that light having a pre-determined wavelength passes through the filter and is converted into an electrical signal and output to the DSP unit. The DSP unit calculates an optical power according to the received electrical signal, and determines wavelength control of the TOSA according to an optical power change. The present invention has the optical filter provided within the ROSA, combines an original optical detection capability of the ROSA and a signal processing capability of the DSP unit to monitor a wavelength change, and adjusts a wavelength by means of the TEC, thereby reducing TOSA volume, simplifying processes and reducing costs.