WDM Optical Signal Monitoring Device for Abnormality Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) networks face challenges in managing temperature-sensitive optical components and maintaining economical efficiency due to the need for precise wavelength management, which is complex and costly, especially as they transition from copper wire-based to light-based networks for high-speed video and data services.
Innovation Solution
An optical signal monitoring device and system that includes an input unit, a WDM filter, an optical power measurement module, and a controller to detect abnormalities in optical signals by measuring optical power and comparing it to predetermined reference values, using an optical switch and analog-to-digital converter to selectively connect input terminals and transmit power information to an external server for real-time monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wavelength management is implemented to operate WDM network stably, then network reliability is improved, but device complexity and management difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-setting reference values for optical power levels at each wavelength channel before actual network operation. The monitoring device compares real-time measurements against these pre-established references, enabling automatic detection of wavelength drift or power abnormalities without requiring complex real-time analysis algorithms, thus improving reliability while keeping management simple
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring optical power levels at each wavelength channel and comparing them against reference values. When deviations are detected, the system generates alerts or logs for maintenance personnel, creating a closed-loop feedback mechanism that maintains network stability through automated detection rather than complex manual management
2Productivity
If multiple wavelengths are managed in WDM network, then network bandwidth and service capability are improved, but temperature control of optical components becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical temperature control systems with an optical monitoring approach. Instead of actively controlling temperatures of multiple optical components across different wavelength channels, the system uses optical power measurements at each wavelength to indirectly detect and indicate problems, substituting complex thermal management with simpler optical detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical power measurement as an intermediary parameter to monitor wavelength channel health. Rather than directly managing physical conditions like temperature of multiple components, the system uses optical power levels as intermediate indicators that reflect the overall health of each wavelength channel, simplifying the management of multi-wavelength systems
3Measurement precision
If optical power measurement is performed at each wavelength channel, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the monitoring function into separate wavelength-specific measurement channels. Each wavelength channel has its own measurement path using WDM multiplexers/demultiplexers to separate and measure individual wavelengths independently. This segmentation enables precise per-channel measurement while maintaining modular device architecture that avoids excessive overall 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
Enables easy detection of optical signal abnormalities in WDM networks, improving operational stability and reducing costs by monitoring optical power levels across multiple channels without requiring expensive equipment, thus enhancing network management and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) filter for separating the downlink signals and the uplink signals by wavelength
Implementation Method 2
an optical power measurement module for measuring optical power of each optical signal separated by wavelength in the WDM filter
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an optical signal monitoring device and an optical signal monitoring system of a wavelength division multiplexing based network including: an input unit configured to receive each of downlink signals and uplink signals; a wavelength division multiplexing filter configured to separate the downlink signals and the uplink signals by wavelength; an optical power measurement module configured to measure optical power of each signal separated by wavelength; and a controller configured to determine whether an optical signal is abnormal based on optical power information measured by the optical power measurement module.