U.S. patent application number 16/376880 was filed with the patent office on 2020-10-08 for optical communication link identifier.
The applicant listed for this patent is Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc.. Invention is credited to Joe J. THOMPSON, Glenn A. WELLBROCK, Tiejun J. XIA.
Application Number | 20200322050 16/376880 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005104402 |
Filed Date | 2020-10-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200322050 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
XIA; Tiejun J. ; et
al. |
October 8, 2020 |
OPTICAL COMMUNICATION LINK IDENTIFIER
Abstract
An actuator device can include a plate, an actuator, a
connector, and a power unit. The plate can retain a section of an
optical fiber at the transmitter end of an optical communication
link. The section of the optical fiber can be wrapped in at least a
partial loop and held or retained by the plate. The connector can
be a mechanical connector that couples the plate to the actuator
and enables the plate to move about at least one axis to cause a
change in a polarization state of the optical signal carried by the
optical fiber. The change in the polarization state is identifiable
by a polarized photodetector near a receiver end of the optical
communication link. The power unit can provide power to at least
the actuator.
Inventors: |
XIA; Tiejun J.; (Richardson,
TX) ; WELLBROCK; Glenn A.; (Wylie, TX) ;
THOMPSON; Joe J.; (Aubrey, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc. |
Arlington |
VA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005104402 |
Appl. No.: |
16/376880 |
Filed: |
April 5, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04B 10/6162 20130101;
H04B 10/50 20130101; H04B 10/25891 20200501 |
International
Class: |
H04B 10/25 20060101
H04B010/25; H04B 10/50 20060101 H04B010/50; H04B 10/61 20060101
H04B010/61 |
Claims
1-6. (canceled)
7. A device, comprising: a guide to: receive a receiver end of an
optical fiber that is to receive an optical signal, wherein the
guide includes at least one of: a groove, a recess, or a slot,
wherein the at least one of the groove, the recess, or the slot is
to divert a portion of the optical signal from the optical fiber,
and wherein the guide forms an aperture, wherein the aperture is to
receive the portion of the optical signal diverted from the optical
fiber; a polarizer to: filter the portion of the optical signal
diverted from the optical fiber; a photodetector coupled to the
polarizer to: detect a change in intensity in the portion of the
optical signal diverted from the optical fiber; a processor in
communication with the photodetector to: determine a change in
polarization in the optical signal based on the change in intensity
in the portion of the optical signal diverted from the optical
fiber, wherein the change in polarization is caused by a movement
of a transmitter end of the optical fiber, and identify an optical
communication link between the transmitter end and the receiver end
based on the change in polarization; and a power unit in
communication with the photodetector and the processor.
8. The device of claim 7, wherein the guide is to at least
partially bend the receiver end of the optical fiber to cause the
portion of the optical signal to be diverted from the optical
signal.
9-10. (canceled)
11. The device of claim 7, wherein the photodetector is in optical
communication with the polarizer.
12. The device of claim 7, wherein the processor is to determine
the change in polarization in the optical signal based on the
change in intensity in the portion of the optical signal diverted
from the optical fiber, wherein the change in polarization is
caused by an oscillation of the transmitter end of the optical
fiber at a particular frequency.
13. The device of claim 7, wherein the processor further: compares
the change in intensity in the portion of the optical signal
diverted from the optical fiber and a particular frequency, wherein
the particular frequency corresponds to the change in polarization
that is caused by the movement of the transmitter end of the
optical fiber, and identify the optical communication link between
the transmitter end and the receiver end based on correlations
between the change in intensity and the particular frequency.
14. A system, comprising: a first device including: a plate to:
retain a transmitter end of an optical fiber that is to transmit an
optical signal, wherein the plate includes at least one of: a
groove, a recess, or a slot, and wherein the at least one of the
groove, the recess, or the slot is to retain the transmitter end of
the optical fiber in at least a partial loop, an actuator coupled
to the plate to: cause the plate and the transmitter end of the
optical fiber to move about at least one axis, wherein the actuator
is to move the plate to cause a change in polarization in the
optical signal, and a connector to: couple the plate to the
actuator, and wherein the connector enables the plate to move about
the at least one axis; a second device including: a guide to:
receive a receiver end of the optical fiber that is to receive the
optical signal, wherein the guide is to divert a portion of the
optical signal from the optical fiber, and wherein the guide forms
an aperture, wherein the aperture is to receive the portion of the
optical signal diverted from the optical fiber; and a polarizer to:
filter the portion of the optical signal diverted from the optical
fiber, a photodetector coupled to the polarizer to: detect a change
in intensity in the portion of the optical signal diverted from the
optical fiber, and a processor in communication with the
photodetector to: determine the change in polarization in the
optical signal based on the change in intensity in the portion of
the optical signal diverted from the optical fiber, and identify an
optical communication link between the transmitter end and the
receiver end based on the change in polarization.
15. The system of claim 14, wherein the plate includes one or more
rails that are to retain one or more loops of the transmitter end
of the optical fiber.
16. The system of claim 14, wherein the connector is disposed along
the at least one axis, wherein the actuator is to move the plate
and the transmitter end of the optical fiber about the at least one
axis at a particular frequency.
17. The system of claim 14, wherein the guide is to bend the
receiver end of the optical fiber to cause the portion of the
optical signal to be diverted.
18. (canceled)
19. The system of claim 14, wherein the first device further
comprises a processor in communication with the actuator to:
operate the actuator and cause the plate to move the transmitter
end of the optical fiber about the at least one axis, and
communicate with the processor of the second device.
20. The system of claim 14, wherein the actuator is to move the
plate and the transmitter end of the optical fiber about the at
least one axis at a particular frequency, wherein the processor
further: compares the change in intensity in the portion of the
optical signal diverted from the optical fiber and the particular
frequency, and identifies the optical communication link between
the transmitter end and the receiver end based on correlations
between the change in intensity and the particular frequency.
21. (canceled)
22. A device, comprising: a guide to: receive a receiver end of an
optical fiber that is to receive an optical signal, wherein the
guide includes at least one of: a groove, a recess, or a slot,
wherein the at least one of the groove, the recess, or the slot is
to divert a portion of the optical signal from the optical fiber,
and wherein the guide forms an aperture; a polarizer to: filter the
portion of the optical signal diverted from the optical fiber,
wherein the polarizer is disposed within the aperture; a
photodetector coupled to the polarizer to: detect a change in
intensity in the portion of the optical signal diverted from the
optical fiber; a processor in communication with the photodetector
to: determine a change in polarization in the optical signal based
on the change in intensity in the portion of the optical signal
diverted from the optical fiber, wherein the change in polarization
is caused by a movement of a transmitter end of the optical fiber,
and identify an optical communication link between the transmitter
end and the receiver end based on the change in polarization; and a
power unit in communication with the photodetector and the
processor.
23. The device of claim 22, wherein the photodetector is in optical
communication with the polarizer.
24. The device of claim 22, wherein the processor is to determine
the change in polarization in the optical signal based on the
change in intensity in the portion of the optical signal diverted
from the optical fiber, wherein the change in polarization is
caused by an oscillation of the transmitter end of the optical
fiber at a particular frequency.
25. The device of claim 22, wherein the processor is further to:
compare the change in intensity in the portion of the optical
signal diverted from the optical fiber and a particular frequency,
wherein the particular frequency corresponds to the change in
polarization that is caused by the movement of the transmitter end
of the optical fiber.
26. The device of claim 25, wherein the processor is further to:
identify the optical communication link between the transmitter end
and the receiver end based on correlations between the change in
intensity and the particular frequency.
27. The device of claim 22, wherein the guide is to at least
partially bend the receiver end of the optical fiber to cause the
portion of the optical signal to be diverted from the optical
signal.
28. (canceled)
29. The system of claim 14, wherein the polarizer is disposed
within the aperture.
30. The system of claim 14, wherein the photodetector is in optical
communication with the polarizer.
31. The system of claim 14, wherein plate is open-ended or
open-faced on one side.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] An optical network relies on optical signals to exchange
information between network devices of a network, such as a
telecommunications network. Information is encoded as pulses of
light and carried to different network devices using combinations
of lasers or light emitting diodes (LEDs), optical amplifiers,
repeaters, and other supporting network devices. The network
devices of an optical network are generally comprised of optical
transmitters and/or optical receivers which exchange optical
signals via interconnected arrays of optical fibers. An optical
communication link is formed when an optical fiber is connected
between an optical transmitter and an optical receiver and is
capable of transmitting an optical signal from the optical
transmitter to the optical receiver.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0002] FIGS. 1A-1B are diagrams of one or more example
implementations described herein.
[0003] FIGS. 2A-2C are diagrams of one or more example
implementations of an actuator device described herein.
[0004] FIGS. 3A-3B are diagrams of one or more example
implementations of a detector device described herein.
[0005] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of an example process for identifying
an optical communication link.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0006] The following detailed description of example
implementations refers to the accompanying drawings. The same
reference numbers in different drawings can identify the same or
similar elements.
[0007] Technology has improved functioning of optical networks, by
increasing bandwidth available on the optical networks and, thus,
the volume of traffic that can be carried by the optical networks.
As a result, optical network service providers have increased
reliance on optical networks to carry traffic. Thus, it has become
a common interest among optical network service providers to reduce
unnecessary downtime, such as by maintaining network connectivity
and expediting necessary repairs.
[0008] Optical network service providers often dispatch field
technicians to identify an optical communication link (e.g., to
test connectivity) between network devices within an optical
network. For shorter optical communication links (e.g.,
approximately 10 kilometers or less), field technicians typically
inject visible light into a transmitter end of an optical fiber,
and visually check for corresponding light at a receiver end of the
optical fiber. For longer optical communication links (e.g.,
approximately 10 kilometers or longer), field technicians typically
inject infrared light into a transmitter end of an optical fiber,
and use an infrared detector at a receiver end of the optical fiber
to identify optical communication links.
[0009] Such systems for testing optical communication links have
room for improvement. Using visible light allows field technicians
to identify individual optical communication links within an array
of optical fibers, but is limited in range and ineffective over
longer distances. Using infrared light can test optical fibers over
longer distances, but cannot distinguish between individual optical
communication links within an array of optical fibers. These
systems are thus inadequate for identifying individual optical
communication links within an array of optical fibers that extend
over longer distances. Furthermore, these systems typically require
field technicians to disconnect optical fibers to inject an
external light source, which can introduce unwanted service
interruptions, cause damage, and prolong downtime.
[0010] Some implementations described herein identify optical
communication links without relying on external light sources and
without the various drawbacks discussed above. In some
implementations, a section of a transmitter end of an optical fiber
is physically manipulated to cause a change in an optical signal,
carried by the optical fiber, that is detectable at a receiver end
of the optical fiber. In some implementations, the optical fiber is
wrapped or formed into one or more loops and moved at a particular
frequency to cause corresponding changes in a polarization state in
the optical signal. In some implementations, the receiver end of
the optical fiber is tapped to detect corresponding changes in
intensity in the optical signal. In some implementations, detected
changes in intensity are used to distinguish and identify
individual optical communication links.
[0011] In this way, optical network service providers are able to
identify optical communication links in less time, with fewer
resources, at lower cost, and with reduced service interruptions.
By relying on live optical signals that are already sufficiently
powered to reach the desired ranges, field technicians can use a
single system to test optical fibers of varying lengths. Also, by
leveraging optical signals that are already in use, field
technicians can identify optical communication links without
disconnecting optical fibers or disrupting service. Furthermore, by
reducing unwanted downtime, optical network service providers are
able to reduce costs and resources associated with equipment and
workforce typically needed to disconnect and reconnect service per
test.
[0012] FIGS. 1A-1B are diagrams of one or more example
implementations 100 described herein. As shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, the
example implementation(s) 100 can include a plurality of network
devices that are interconnected by an array of optical fibers to
form an optical network. The network devices can include any one or
more of optical transmitters, optical receivers, optical sources,
amplifiers, repeaters, switches, multiplexers, splitters,
circulators, or any other device suited to transmit and/or receive
an optical signal. Optical signals can be provided using lasers,
light emitting diodes (LEDs), and/or any other polarized light
suitable for transmitting information over an optical network. The
optical fibers can include glass fibers, glass-polymer fibers,
polymer fibers, or any other medium suitable for transmitting
optical signals.
[0013] In the example implementation(s) 100 of FIGS. 1A-1B, the
network devices are shown as an optical transmitter and an optical
receiver. The optical transmitter can be configured to transmit an
optical signal through at least one optical fiber across an optical
network to a designated optical receiver. Although one possible
arrangement is shown, the example implementation(s) 100 can be
provided in other arrangements. For example, additional optical
transmitters and/or additional optical receivers can be used to
transmit optical signals across the optical network and/or one or
more additional optical networks. In some implementations, the
optical transmitter can additionally function as an optical
receiver and/or the optical receiver can additionally function as
an optical transmitter. Furthermore, while only four optical
communication links are shown, there can be fewer or additional
optical communication links in some implementations.
[0014] As shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, an optical communication link
identification system can be used to identify individual optical
communication links (e.g., to test the ability for an optical fiber
to carry optical signals from one point to another) within the
optical network. The optical communication link identification
system can include at least one actuator device and at least one
detector device. The actuator device can be used to physically
manipulate a section of a transmitter end of an individual optical
fiber to cause a change in the optical signal that is detectable at
a receiver end and distinguishable from other optical signals in
the array of optical fibers. The detector device can be used to tap
the receiver end of an individual optical fiber to identify the
optical signal corresponding to the optical fiber being manipulated
by the actuator device. Furthermore, and as discussed in more
detail herein, the actuator device and the detector device can be
configured to test optical communication links without
disconnecting optical fibers or disrupting the optical signal.
[0015] In some implementations, the actuator device can be applied
to the transmitter end of an optical fiber to be tested.
Specifically, the actuator device can be configured to hold or
retain the optical fiber that is wrapped or formed in at least a
partial loop, such as one or more loops, without needing to
disconnect the optical fiber. In some implementations, the actuator
device can be open-faced or open-ended on one side to allow the
optical fiber to be retained therein manually by hand and/or
automatically by a feeding mechanism. The actuator device can
further be configured to move the transmitter end of the optical
fiber in a manner that causes changes in a polarization state of
the optical signal. In some implementations, the actuator device
can at least partially move one or more loops of the optical fiber
about an axis at a fixed frequency to cause the polarization in the
optical signal to change at a rate corresponding to the fixed
frequency. In some implementations, the actuator device can cause
one or more loops of the optical fiber to rotate, pivot, swing,
oscillate, or otherwise move about one or more axes at a variable
frequency to cause a polarization in the optical signal to change
at a rate corresponding to the variable frequency.
[0016] In some implementations, the detector device can be applied
to the receiver end of one of the optical fibers to check for an
optical communication link with the optical fiber retained by the
actuator device. The detector device can be configured to receive
an optical fiber and sample or tap the optical signal without
needing to disconnect the optical fiber. In some implementations,
the detector device can be open-faced or open-ended on one side to
allow the optical fiber to be retained therein manually by hand
and/or automatically by a feeding mechanism. The detector device
can further be configured to at least partially bend the optical
fiber at an angle that is small enough to divert a portion of the
optical signal from the optical fiber, but large enough so as not
to impair the optical signal. In some implementations, the detector
device can be configured to employ other mechanisms for tapping the
optical signal.
[0017] In some implementations, the detector device can also filter
the tapped optical signal. In some implementations, the detector
device can apply a fixed polarizing filter that enables changes in
polarization passing therethrough to exhibit corresponding changes
in intensity. As referenced herein, change in intensity can
correspond to changes in signal power, attenuation, photon energy,
photon flux, and/or the like. Additionally, the detector device can
be configured to detect such changes in intensity in the optical
signal, determine that corresponding changes in polarization are
present in the optical signal, and identify that an optical
communication link exists with the optical fiber retained by the
actuator device based on the changes in polarization. In some
implementations, the detector device can be configured to identify
an optical communication link as soon as a change in intensity is
detected. In some implementations, the detector device can be
configured to identify an optical communication link when the
detected rate of change in intensity and the associated rate of
change in polarization correspond to the particular frequency at
which the actuator device moves the optical fiber.
[0018] In some implementations, each of the actuator device and the
detector device can be configured for use with a single optical
fiber. In some implementations, each of the actuator device and the
detector device can be configured for use with multiple optical
fibers. For example, the actuator device can be configured to
simultaneously retain multiple optical fibers, and move each of the
optical fibers at a different frequency to cause distinct changes
in polarization. Similarly, the detector device can be configured
to simultaneously tap multiple optical fibers, and identify each of
the optical communication links based on distinct changes in
intensity observed.
[0019] In some implementations, an actuator device designed for use
with a single optical fiber can be used in conjunction with a
detector device designed for use with multiple optical fibers. In
some implementations, an actuator device designed for use with
multiple optical fibers can be used in conjunction with a detector
device designed for use with a single optical fiber. In some
implementations, multiple actuator devices each designed for use
with a single optical fiber can be used to simultaneously retain
multiple corresponding optical fibers, and move each of the
corresponding optical fibers at a different frequency to cause
different changes in polarization. Similarly, multiple detector
devices each designed for use with a single optical fiber can be
used to simultaneously tap multiple corresponding optical fibers,
and identify each of the corresponding optical communication links
based on distinct changes in intensity observed.
[0020] In some implementations, the application of the actuator
device to the transmitter end of the optical fiber, and/or the
application of the detector device to the receiver end of the
optical fiber, can be at least partially automated. For example,
the actuator device can include or be provided with a feeding
mechanism adapted to feed the transmitter end the optical fiber
into the actuator device, and/or the detector device can include or
be provided with a corresponding feeding mechanism adapted to feed
the receiver end the optical fiber into the detector device. The
feeding mechanism can include a machine, a robot, and/or any other
mechanism that is locally disposed at the transmitter end and/or
the receiver end of the optical fiber, and remotely operated (e.g.,
via instructions communicated from an operation center, a remote
field technician, and/or the like, over wired and/or wireless
connections). In this way, a field technician need not be
dispatched on site to identify optical communication links and can
test the optical fibers remotely.
[0021] As shown in FIG. 1A, the actuator device is applied to the
transmitter end of a first optical fiber, and the detector device
is applied to the receiver end of a second optical fiber that is
different from the first optical fiber. In particular, the actuator
device is configured to cause changes in the polarization in the
optical signal carried by the first optical fiber, and the detector
device is configured to detect changes in intensity corresponding
to changes in polarization in the optical signal carried by the
second optical fiber. Because there is no optical communication
link between the transmitter end of the first optical fiber and the
receiver end of the second optical fiber, and because the
transmitter end of the second optical fiber is not being
manipulated by the actuator device, the detector device does not
detect any changes in intensity. Accordingly, the detector device
can indicate that no optical communication link exists.
[0022] As shown in FIG. 1B, the actuator device is still applied to
the transmitter end of the first optical fiber, but the detector
device is now applied to the receiver end of the same first optical
fiber. The actuator device is again configured to cause changes in
the polarization in the optical signal carried by the first optical
fiber, and the detector device is configured to detect changes in
intensity corresponding to changes in polarization in the optical
signal. Because there is an optical communication link between the
transmitter end and the receiver end of the first optical fiber,
the detector device detects changes in intensity corresponding to
the changes in polarization caused by the actuator device.
Accordingly, the detector device can indicate that an optical
communication link does exist. In some implementations, the
detector device and/or the optical communication link
identification system can further be configured to indicate the
presence or lack of an optical communication link using peripheral
devices and/or communication interfaces capable of providing
audible, visual, haptic, and/or otherwise detectable feedback.
[0023] In this way, the optical communication link identification
system disclosed herein provides a solution for identifying optical
communication links that utilizes existing optical signals rather
than external light sources. By overcoming the need for external
light sources, field technicians are able to identify optical
communication links in less time, with fewer resources, at lower
cost, and without disrupting service. Also, by providing an optical
communication link identification system that is indifferent to the
length of the optical communication link, field technicians are
able to use a single system to test optical fibers of varying
lengths. Furthermore, by reducing unwanted downtime, optical
network service providers are able to reduce costs and resources
associated with equipment and workforce typically needed to
disconnect and reconnect service per test.
[0024] As indicated above, FIGS. 1A-1B are provided as examples.
Other examples can differ from what is described with regard to
FIGS. 1A-1B. The number and arrangement of devices and networks
shown in FIGS. 1A-1B are provided as one or more examples. In
practice, there may be additional devices and/or networks, fewer
devices and/or networks, different devices and/or networks, or
differently arranged devices and/or networks than those shown in
FIGS. 1A-1B. Furthermore, two or more devices shown in FIGS. 1A-1B
may be implemented within a single device, or a single device shown
in FIGS. 1A-1B may be implemented as multiple, distributed devices.
Additionally, or alternatively, a set of devices (e.g., one or more
devices) of example implementation(s) 100 may perform one or more
functions described as being performed by another set of devices of
example implementation(s) 100.
[0025] FIGS. 2A-2C are diagrams of one or more example
implementations of an actuator device 200 described herein. The
actuator device 200 can be configured to hold or retain a section
of a transmitter end of an optical fiber 202 that is to transmit an
optical signal, and cause the transmitter end of the optical fiber
202 to move about at least one axis 204 to cause changes in a
polarization state of the optical signal. As shown in the front
planar view of FIG. 2A and the side planar view of FIG. 2B, for
example, the actuator device 200 can include a plate 206, an
actuator 208, a connector 210, a processor 212, and a power unit
214. Furthermore, as shown in the side planar view of FIG. 2C, the
actuator 208 of the actuator device 200 can be configured to move
the plate 206 and the transmitter end of the optical fiber 202
about the axis 204 at a particular frequency. In some
implementations, the actuator device 200 can include multiple
plates 206, and a corresponding arrangement of actuators 208 and
connectors 210, configured to simultaneously retain and move
multiple optical fibers 202 at different frequencies to cause
distinct changes in polarization.
[0026] The plate 206 includes a planar surface that is sized to
hold or receive one or more loops of the optical fiber 202 and
formed of a polymer, a metal, a ceramic, a composite, and/or any
other material that is sufficiently rigid to be moved by the
actuator 208. In some implementations, the plate 206 additionally
includes one or more rails 216 configured to hold or retain a
section of the transmitter end of the optical fiber 202. The one or
more rails 216 can be sized (e.g., with a sufficient radius) so as
not to damage the optical fiber 202 or disrupt the optical signal.
In some implementations, the one or more rails 216 can include
grooves, tabs, recesses, guides, slots, or any other feature or
component suited to retain the optical fiber 202. In some
implementations, the plate 206 can be configured such that the
optical fiber 202 can be received and retained without
disconnecting the optical fiber 202 from the optical network. In
some implementations, the plate 206 can be open-faced or open-ended
on one side to allow the optical fiber 202 to be retained therein
manually by hand and/or automatically by a feeding mechanism.
[0027] The actuator 208 includes a motor or any other actuatable
device suited to cause the plate 206 to move. The actuator 208 can
be coupled to the plate 206 and configured to cause the plate 206
and the transmitter end of the optical fiber 202 to move about the
axis 204. The actuator 208 can be configured to move the plate 206
and the optical fiber 202 in a manner that causes changes in
polarization and corresponding changes in intensity in the optical
signal that is identifiable by a polarized photodetector at a
receiver end of the optical fiber 202. In some implementations, the
actuator 208 can be configured to rotate, pivot, swing, oscillate,
or otherwise move the plate 206 about the axis 204 at a fixed
frequency. In some implementations, the actuator 208 can be
configured to rotate, pivot, swing, oscillate, or otherwise move
the plate 206 at a variable frequency.
[0028] The connector 210 includes a pin, a sprocket, a cogwheel, a
gear, or another mechanical component or mechanism suited to
movably and operatively couple the actuator 208 to the plate 206.
The connector 210 can be configured to couple the plate 206 to the
actuator 208 in a manner that enables the actuator 208 to move the
plate 206 about the axis 204. In some implementations, the
connector 210 can be disposed along an axis that coincides with the
axis 204, and configured to allow the plate 206 to move about the
axis 204. In some implementations, the connector 210 can be
configured to enable the actuator 208 to move the plate 206 about
multiple axes.
[0029] The processor 212 includes any one or more of a central
processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an
accelerated processing unit (APU), a microprocessor, a
microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a
field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific
integrated circuit (ASIC), or another type of processing component.
In some implementations, the processor 212 can include one or more
processors capable of being programmed to perform a function. The
processor 212 can further include or otherwise have access to
memory 218 in the form of random access memory (RAM), a read only
memory (ROM), and/or another type of dynamic or static storage
device (e.g., a flash memory, a magnetic memory, and/or an optical
memory) that stores information and/or instructions for use by the
processor 212.
[0030] In some implementations, the processor 212 can be provided
in electrical communication with at least the actuator 208 and a
communication interface 220. The processor 212 can be configured to
operate the actuator 208 and cause the plate 206 to move the
transmitter end of the optical fiber 202 about the axis 204. In
some implementations, the processor 212 can selectively engage the
actuator 208 to apply different types of actuation (e.g., differing
in frequency and/or pattern of movement), and/or initiate the
actuation at different times for different durations.
[0031] In some implementations, the processor 212 can further be
adapted to communicate with an operation center, a remote field
technician, and/or the like, over wired and/or wireless connections
via the communication interface 220. For example, the processor 212
can be configured to receive instructions for enabling a feeding
mechanism provided at the transmitter end of the optical fiber 202
to automatically feed the optical fiber 202 into the actuator
device 200 or perform other automated processes. Additionally or
alternatively, the processor 212 can be configured to enable a
feeding mechanism provided at the receiver end of the optical fiber
302 to automatically feed the optical fiber 302 into the detector
device 300 or perform other automated processes.
[0032] In some implementations, the processor 212 of the actuator
device 200 can be configured to communicate with a processor of the
detector device 300 (e.g., the processor 310 of FIG. 3A) over wired
and/or wireless connections via the communication interface 220.
For example, when the processor 212 initiates manipulation of the
transmitter end of the optical fiber 202, the processor 212 can
request or instruct the detector device 300 to begin monitoring for
changes in intensity in the corresponding receiver end of the
optical fiber 302. The processor 212 can use the communication
interface 220 to further communicate to the detector device 300 the
type of actuation to search for, the start time of the actuation,
and/or the end time of the actuation. In some implementations, the
processor 212 can be configured to receive instructions from the
detector device 300 specifying the type of actuation to initiate,
the time the actuation should start, and/or the time the actuation
should end.
[0033] In some implementations, the processor 212 can be configured
to exchange event information with the detector device 300 to
further corroborate identification of optical communication links.
For example, the processor 212 can be configured to transmit an
event (e.g., "Oscillation Type A applied to Optical Communication
Link X at 5:47:48 Universal Coordinated Time") to inform the
detector device 300 of the type of actuation to detect and the
timeframe within which the actuation can be detected. In some
implementations, the processor 212 can be configured to receive an
event (e.g., "Oscillation Type A detected on Optical Communication
Link X at 5:48:03 Universal Coordinated Time") from the detector
device 300 indicating that the optical communication link was
verified, and correspondingly cease the actuation. Similarly, the
processor 212 can be configured to exchange event information with
the detector device 300 via the communication interface 220
relating to optical communication links that could not be
verified.
[0034] The power unit 214 includes a power supply suited to enable
the actuator 208. In some implementations, the power unit 214
includes a portable power supply, such as a rechargeable and/or
replaceable battery, that is connected to the actuator 208. In some
implementations, the power unit 214 includes power circuitry
adapted to connect to external power sources. The power unit 214
can be disposed in electrical communication with at least the
actuator 208 and configured to supply power sufficient to enable
the actuator 208 to move the plate 206 and the optical fiber 202 at
a particular frequency during testing. In some implementations, the
power unit 214 can further be in electrical communication with the
processor 212 and the communication interface 220.
[0035] As indicated above, FIGS. 2A-2C are provided as examples.
Other examples can differ from what is described with regard to
FIGS. 2A-2C. The number and arrangement of devices and components
shown in FIGS. 2A-2C are provided as one or more examples. In
practice, there may be additional devices and/or components, fewer
devices and/or components, different devices and/or components, or
differently arranged devices and/or components than those shown in
FIGS. 2A-2C. Furthermore, two or more components shown in FIGS.
2A-2C may be implemented within a single component, or a single
component shown in FIGS. 2A-2C may be implemented as multiple,
distributed components.
[0036] FIGS. 3A-3B are diagrams of one or more example
implementations of a detector device 300 described herein. The
detector device 300 can be configured to receive a receiver end of
an optical fiber 302 that is to receive an optical signal, divert a
portion of the optical signal from the optical fiber 302, filter
the diverted portion of the optical signal, and detect changes in
intensity in the optical signal. Based on any detected changes in
intensity, the detector device 300 can be configured to determine
changes in polarization in the optical signal caused by movements
at a transmitter end of the optical fiber 302, and identify an
optical communication link based on the changes in polarization. As
shown in FIG. 3A, the detector device 300 can include a guide 304,
a polarizer 306, a photodetector 308, a processor 310, and a power
unit 312. In some implementations, the detector device 300 can
include multiple sets of guides 304, polarizers 306, and
photodetectors 308 configured to simultaneously tap multiple
optical fibers 302 and distinguish between different changes in
intensity observed.
[0037] The guide 304 is a structure that is formed of a polymer, a
metal, a ceramic, a composite, and/or any other material suited to
receive the optical fiber 302. In some implementations, the guide
304 includes a groove, a tab, a recess, a rail, a slot, or another
feature or component suited to receive the optical fiber 302. In
some implementations, the guide 304 is configured such that the
optical fiber 302 can be received without disconnecting the optical
fiber 302. For example, the guide 304 can be open-faced or
open-ended on one side to allow the optical fiber 302 to be
retained therein manually by hand and/or automatically by a feeding
mechanism. Furthermore, the guide 304 can be configured to receive
the receiver end of the optical fiber 302 in a manner that enables
the optical signal to be tapped or sampled by the detector device
300 without disconnecting the optical fiber 302 from the optical
network. In some implementations, the guide 304 can be configured
to at least partially bend the optical fiber 302 to cause a portion
of the optical signal to be diverted from the optical signal. As
shown in FIG. 3A, the guide 304 can further form an aperture 314
that is positioned to receive the diverted optical signal. The
guide 304 can be designed to bend the optical fiber 302 at an angle
that is sufficiently small to enable the optical signal to be
sampled, but sufficiently large to maintain the integrity of the
optical signal.
[0038] The polarizer 306 includes a polarizing filter that is
selected based on the type of light or optical signal being
received and the type of polarization to be isolated. The polarizer
306 can be disposed in optical communication with the guide 304 and
configured to filter the portion of the optical signal that is
diverted from the optical fiber 302. For example, the polarizer 306
can be disposed within the aperture 314 and positioned to receive a
sample of the optical signal. Furthermore, the polarizer 306 can be
fixed relative to the guide 304 and configured such that changes in
polarization of the optical signal passing through the polarizing
filter exhibit corresponding changes in intensity.
[0039] The photodetector 308 includes any suitable sensor capable
of detecting changes in intensity in an optical signal (e.g.,
capable of converting photons to electrical current). The
photodetector 308 can be coupled to the polarizer 306 and
configured to detect changes in intensity in the sampled and
filtered portion of the optical signal. Furthermore, the
photodetector 308 can be disposed in optical communication with the
polarizer 306 such that any optical signals received by the
photodetector 308 are filtered or polarized by the polarizer 306.
Passing the optical signal through the polarizer 306 can cause
specific polarizations of the optical signal to be isolated, and
thereby cause a differentiation in signal intensity that can be
detected by the photodetector 308.
[0040] The processor 310 includes any one or more of a central
processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an
accelerated processing unit (APU), a microprocessor, a
microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a
field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific
integrated circuit (ASIC), or another type of processing component.
In some implementations, the processor 310 can include one or more
processors capable of being programmed to perform a function. The
processor 310 can further include or otherwise have access to
memory 316 in the form of random access memory (RAM), a read only
memory (ROM), and/or another type of dynamic or static storage
device (e.g., a flash memory, a magnetic memory, and/or an optical
memory) that stores information and/or instructions for use by the
processor 310.
[0041] In some implementations, the processor 310 can be provided
in electrical communication with the photodetector 308, a
peripheral device 318, and a communication interface 320. The
processor 310 can be configured to determine changes in
polarization in the optical signal based on any changes in
intensity detected by the photodetector 308, as shown by the
example photodetector output waveform 322 of FIG. 3B. Furthermore,
the processor 310 can be configured to identify an optical
communication link between a transmitter end and a receiver end of
an optical fiber 302 based on the changes in polarization. In some
implementations, the processor 310 can determine whether changes in
polarization are caused by movement of the transmitter end of the
optical fiber, such as those caused by the actuator device 200. If
the changes in intensity detected by the detector device 300 at the
receiver end of an optical fiber 302 correspond to changes in
polarization that are caused by the actuator device 200 at the
transmitter end, the processor 310 can be configured to confirm and
identify an optical communication link. The processor 310 can use
the peripheral device 318 to provide audible, visual, and/or haptic
feedback to indicate whether an optical communication link
exists.
[0042] In some implementations, the processor 310 can be configured
to determine that changes in polarization in the optical signal are
caused by an oscillation of the transmitter end of the optical
fiber 302 at a particular frequency. In some implementations, the
processor 310 can be configured to compare changes in intensity,
such as a rate of change of intensity over time, and the particular
frequency that corresponds to the movement caused by the actuator
device 200. If the rate of change of intensity detected at the
receiver end of the optical fiber 302 corresponds to the particular
frequency, the processor 310 can be configured to identify the
optical communication link between the transmitter end and the
receiver end of the optical fiber 302.
[0043] In some implementations, the processor 310 can further be
adapted to communicate with an operation center, a remote field
technician, and/or the like, over wired and/or wireless connections
via the communication interface 320. For example, the processor 310
can be configured to receive instructions for enabling a feeding
mechanism provided at the receiver end of the optical fiber 302 to
automatically feed the optical fiber 302 into the detector device
300 or perform other automated processes. Additionally or
alternatively, the processor 310 can be configured to enable a
feeding mechanism provided at the transmitter end of the optical
fiber 202 to automatically feed the optical fiber 202 into the
actuator device 200 or perform other automated processes.
[0044] In some implementations, the processor 310 can be configured
to use the communication interface 320 to communicate with the
communication interface 220 of the processor 212 of the actuator
device 200 over wired and/or wireless connections. In some
implementations, the processor 310 can request or instruct the
actuator device 200 to manipulate the transmitter end of the
optical fiber 202. For example, the processor 310 can specify the
type of actuation (e.g., the frequency and/or pattern of movement)
that the actuator device 200 should engage, and/or the duration
(e.g., start and end times) of the actuation. In turn, the
processor 310 can be configured to distinguish and identify optical
communication links based on the type and/or duration of actuation
specified to the actuation device 200.
[0045] In some implementations, the processor 310 can be configured
to exchange event information with the processor 212 to further
corroborate identification of optical communication links. For
example, the processor 212 of the actuator device 200 can be
configured to transmit an event (e.g., "Oscillation Type A applied
to Optical Communication Link X at 5:47:48 Universal Coordinated
Time") to inform the processor 310 of the detector device 300 of
the type of actuation to detect and the timeframe within which the
actuation can be detected. In some implementations, the processor
310 of the detector device 300 can transmit an event (e.g.,
"Oscillation Type A detected on Optical Communication Link X at
5:48:03 Universal Coordinated Time") to the processor 212 of the
actuator device 200 to indicate that the optical communication link
was verified and to instruct the actuator device 200 to cease the
actuation. Similarly, the processor 310 can be configured to
exchange event information with the actuator device 200 via the
communication interface 320 relating to optical communication links
that could not be verified.
[0046] The power unit 312 of the detector device 300 can be
disposed in electrical communication with at least the
photodetector 308 and the processor 310, and can be configured to
supply power sufficient to enable the photodetector 308 and the
processor 310 to detect changes in intensity in the optical signal.
In some implementations, the power unit 312 can include one or more
portable power supplies, such as rechargeable and/or replaceable
batteries, that are connected to the photodetector 308 and the
processor 310. In some implementations, the power unit 312 can
include power circuitry adapted to connect the photodetector 308
and the processor 310 to external power sources. In some
implementations, the power unit 312 can further be in electrical
communication with the peripheral device 318 and the communication
interface 320.
[0047] As indicated above, FIGS. 3A-3B are provided as examples.
Other examples can differ from what is described with regard to
FIGS. 3A-3B. The number and arrangement of devices and components
shown in FIGS. 3A-3B are provided as one or more examples. In
practice, there may be additional devices and/or components, fewer
devices and/or components, different devices and/or components, or
differently arranged devices and/or components than those shown in
FIGS. 3A-3B. Furthermore, two or more components shown in FIGS.
3A-3B may be implemented within a single component, or a single
component shown in FIGS. 3A-3B may be implemented as multiple,
distributed components.
[0048] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of an example process 400 for
identifying an optical communication link. In some implementations,
one or more process blocks of FIG. 4 can be performed by a detector
device (e.g., the detector device 300 using the photodetector 308
and/or the processor 310). In some implementations, one or more
blocks of FIG. 4 can be performed in combination with another
device or a group of devices separate from the detector device
(e.g., the actuator device 200 using the processor 212, and/or
another processor that is otherwise in communication with one or
more of the actuator device 200 or the detector device 300).
[0049] As shown in FIG. 4, the process 400 can include detecting
changes in intensity in an optical signal that is tapped or sampled
at a receiver end of an optical fiber (block 402). For example, the
detector device (e.g., the detector device 300 using the polarizer
306, the photodetector 308, the processor 310, and/or the like) can
detect changes in intensity in the optical signal corresponding to
changes in polarization introduced at a transmitter end of the
optical fiber by an actuator device (e.g., the actuator device 200
using the plate 206, the actuator 208, the connector 210, the
processor 212, and/or the like), as described above.
[0050] As further shown in FIG. 4, the process 400 can also include
determining changes in polarization in the optical signal based on
detected changes in intensity (block 404). For example, the
detector device (e.g., the detector device 300 using the polarizer
306, the photodetector 308, the processor 310, and/or the like) can
use detected changes in intensity to determine whether
corresponding changes in polarization are present in the optical
signal, as described above.
[0051] As further shown in FIG. 4, the process 400 can include
identifying an optical communication link between the transmitter
end and the receiver end of the optical fiber based on the
determined changes in polarization (block 406). For example, the
detector device (e.g., the detector device 300 using the polarizer
306, the photodetector 308, the processor 310, and/or the like) can
determine whether the determined changes in polarization are
sufficiently indicative of an optical communication link between
the transmitter end and the receiver end of the optical fiber. In
some implementations, the process 400 can be configured to identify
whether an optical communication link exists as soon as any type of
change in polarization is detected, as described above.
[0052] As further shown in FIG. 4, if sufficient changes in
polarization are not detected (block 408--NO), then the process 400
can include indicating that no optical communication link exists
between the transmitter end and the receiver end of the optical
fiber (block 410). For example, the detector device (e.g., the
detector device 300 using the processor 310, the peripheral device
318, and/or the communication interface 320) can provide audible,
visual, haptic, and/or otherwise detectable feedback to indicate
that there is no optical communication link between the transmitter
end and the receiver end of the optical fiber, as described
above.
[0053] As further shown in FIG. 4, if sufficient changes in
polarization are detected (block 408--YES), then the process 400
can include indicating that an optical communication link exists
between the transmitter end and the receiver end of the optical
fiber (block 412). For example, the detector device (e.g., the
detector device 300 using the processor 310, the peripheral device
318, and/or the communication interface 320) can provide audible,
visual, haptic, and/or otherwise detectable feedback to indicate
that there is an optical communication link between the transmitter
end and the receiver end of the optical fiber, as described
above.
[0054] The process 400 can include additional implementations, such
as any single implementation or any combination of implementations
described below and/or in connection with one or more other
processes described elsewhere herein.
[0055] In one implementation, identifying an optical communication
link between the transmitter end and the receiver end of the
optical fiber can include comparing the change in intensity in the
portion of the optical signal diverted from the optical fiber and a
particular frequency that corresponds to the change in polarization
that is caused by the movement of the transmitter end of the
optical fiber; and identifying the optical communication link
between the transmitter end and the receiver end based on
correlations between the change in intensity and the particular
frequency. In some implementations, a rate of change of intensity
and a corresponding rate of change of polarization can be compared
with the particular frequency to identify the optical communication
link.
[0056] Although FIG. 4 shows example blocks of process 400, in some
implementations, process 400 can include additional blocks, fewer
blocks, different blocks, or differently arranged blocks than those
depicted in FIG. 4. Additionally, or alternatively, two or more of
the blocks of process 400 can be performed in parallel.
[0057] The foregoing disclosure provides illustrations and
descriptions, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
implementations to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and
variations can be made in light of the above disclosure or can be
acquired from practice of the implementations.
[0058] As used herein, the term "component" is intended to be
broadly construed as hardware, firmware, or a combination of
hardware and software.
[0059] To the extent the aforementioned embodiments collect, store,
or employ personal information provided by individuals, it should
be understood that such information shall be collected, stored, and
used in accordance with all applicable laws concerning protection
of personal information. Additionally, the collection, storage, and
use of such information may be subject to consent of the individual
to such activity, for example, through well known "opt-in" or
"opt-out" processes as may be appropriate for the situation and
type of information. Collection, storage, and use of personal
information may be in an appropriately secure manner reflective of
the type of information, for example, through various encryption
and anonymization techniques for particularly sensitive
information.
[0060] Even though particular combinations of features are recited
in the claims and/or disclosed in the specification, these
combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of various
implementations. In fact, many of these features can be combined in
ways not specifically recited in the claims and/or disclosed in the
specification. Although each dependent claim listed below can
directly depend on only one claim, the disclosure of various
implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with
every other claim in the claim set.
[0061] No element, act, or instruction used herein should be
construed as critical or essential unless explicitly described as
such. Also, as used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended
to include one or more items, and may be used interchangeably with
"one or more." Further, as used herein, the article "the" is
intended to include one or more items referenced in connection with
the article "the" and may be used interchangeably with "the one or
more." Furthermore, as used herein, the term "set" is intended to
include one or more items (e.g., related items, unrelated items, a
combination of related and unrelated items, etc.), and may be used
interchangeably with "one or more." Where only one item is
intended, the phrase "only one" or similar language is used. Also,
as used herein, the terms "has," "have," "having," or the like are
intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase "based on" is
intended to mean "based, at least in part, on" unless explicitly
stated otherwise. Also, as used herein, the term "or" is intended
to be inclusive when used in a series and may be used
interchangeably with "and/or," unless explicitly stated otherwise
(e.g., if used in combination with "either" or "only one of").
* * * * *