Wavelength Division Multiplexing Module With Removable Access Panel
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Fiber optic telecommunications systems face challenges in efficiently combining wavelength division multiplexing technology with fiber optic signal splitting, particularly in modular formats that allow for easy installation, expansion, and maintenance, especially in cramped or pre-configured chassis with limited access.
Innovation Solution
A modular fiber optic module that integrates an optical multiplexer/demultiplexer, fiber optic splitter, and optical add/drop filters to split and demultiplex signals, allowing for the combination of split and demultiplexed signals into a single output fiber, while providing cable management and routing features for correct alignment and easy access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a chassis is pre-configured with maximum capacity transmission cables to accommodate future modules, then the system capacity and adaptability are improved, but the complexity of accessing and cleaning connectors increases due to limited access in cramped locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where a removable access panel is inserted into the chassis, creating a layered access mechanism. This allows users to access connectors in pre-configured cable positions without disassembling the entire chassis, effectively nesting the access panel within the chassis structure to provide convenient access in cramped locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable access panel serves as an intermediary component that mediates between the user and the connectors in pre-configured cable positions. This intermediate structure provides a dedicated access path through the chassis, allowing users to clean and maintain connectors without having to open the entire chassis or navigate cramped internal spaces.
2Area of stationary object
If modules are installed in a chassis with limited access sides or cramped locations, then the space utilization is improved, but the ease of maintenance and cleaning of connectors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the chassis access into multiple independent panels, allowing specific sections to be opened for maintenance without affecting the entire chassis structure. This segmentation enables maintenance personnel to access specific connectors in cramped locations by opening only the relevant panel, improving ease of repair while maintaining compact chassis design.
Solution Approach 2:
The chassis is pre-configured with multiple removable access panels positioned at strategic locations before modules are installed. This preliminary arrangement of access paths ensures that maintenance personnel can easily access connectors in cramped locations without having to redesign or reconfigure the chassis later, facilitating easier maintenance while maximizing space utilization.
3Productivity
If wavelength division multiplexing technology is combined with fiber optic signal splitting in a modular format, then the network capacity expansion capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal module designs that can perform multiple functions including wavelength division multiplexing, demultiplexing, and fiber optic signal splitting. These multi-functional modules are standardized to fit various chassis configurations, allowing network operators to expand capacity by adding the same type of module in different positions, thereby reducing integration complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular architecture allows for dynamic configuration where modules can be easily added, removed, or repositioned within the chassis based on network requirements. This dynamic design enables capacity expansion without permanent complex wiring, as modules can be reconfigured to match changing network demands, reducing the overall device complexity while maintaining high productivity.
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
Enables efficient expansion of network capacity without laying additional fiber, ensures correct module alignment, and facilitates maintenance by providing accessible connectors within the chassis, thus addressing the need for flexible and expandable fiber optic telecommunications solutions.
Implementation Method 1
Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) is a technology which multiplexes multiple optical carrier signals on a single optical fiber by using different wavelengths of laser light to carry different signals
Implementation Method 2
optical fibers of transmission cables to be split into multiple strands, either by optical splitting of a signal carried by a single stranded cable
Implementation Method 3
it is possible to have a device that does both simultaneously, and can function as an optical add-drop multiplexer
Data Source
AI summary
A telecommunications module includes an optical wavelength division multiplexer/demultiplexer configured to demultiplex a first optical signal input into the telecommunications module into a plurality of different wavelengths, a fiber optic splitter configured to split a second optical signal input into the telecommunication module into a plurality of optical signals, and a plurality of optical add/drop filters, each of the optical add/drop filters configured to combine one of the optical signals that has been split by the fiber optic splitter and one of the wavelengths that has been demultiplexed by the optical wavelength division multiplexer/demultiplexer into a combination output signal that is output from the telecommunications module.