Alain Houle

Title: Innovations by Alain Houle in Laser Frequency Control

Introduction

Alain Houle is a notable inventor based in Petaluma, CA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of laser technology, particularly in the area of wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) systems. With a total of 2 patents, his work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of laser frequency control.

Latest Patents

Houle's latest patents include innovative methods for controlling laser frequency. The first patent, titled "DWDM laser frequency control," describes a highly efficient control mechanism for laser frequency. This invention utilizes an optical channel monitor that is coupled to a composite WDM signal, which results from multiplexing outputs from multiple laser sources. The monitor determines the frequency of each laser, and this measurement is used to provide feedback for laser frequency control. This approach allows a single optical channel monitor to manage frequency control for numerous WDM channels, significantly reducing both cost and space requirements. Additionally, monitoring capabilities can be provided to individual channels as needed.

The second patent, "Laser frequency control using dithered control signal," introduces a method where a dithering signal is superimposed on a laser frequency control signal. This technique enables laser frequency control by utilizing measurements from a single photodetector. By synchronously sampling the dithering signal, it is possible to generate both the magnitude and sign of the current frequency error based on the output of the photodetector. This innovation minimizes the number of components required to generate an optical signal, which is particularly beneficial in WDM systems where laser frequency control components may be duplicated across many channels.

Career Highlights

Alain Houle is currently employed at Cisco Technology, Inc., where he continues to develop cutting-edge technologies in the field of laser systems. His work has been instrumental in advancing the capabilities of WDM technology, making it more accessible and efficient for various applications.

Collaborations

One of his notable collaborators is Grant E. Moulton, with whom he has worked on various projects related to laser technology and frequency control.

Conclusion

Alain Houle's contributions to laser frequency control through his innovative patents have significantly impacted the field of optical communications. His work at Cisco Technology, Inc. exemplifies the importance of innovation in advancing technology.