DWDM Switch Dynamic Routing for Optical Network Resource Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical networks face inefficiencies in handling short-lived connections, as they rely on static links that are not well-suited for on-demand services, leading to suboptimal utilization of network resources.
Innovation Solution
A network configuration that integrates a dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) switch with a storage area network (SAN) server and an Internet Protocol (IP) router, allowing for dynamic routing and grooming of optical signals, thereby enabling efficient handling of on-demand services without overburdening the optical transport network (OTN) switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If static links are used for connecting optical devices, then network structure is simple and stable, but network resource utilization is poor for short-lived connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic optical circuit switching that allows connection paths to be reconfigured in real-time based on traffic demands. The system transitions from static permanent connections to dynamic programmable connections, enabling the network to adapt to short-lived connections while maintaining stability through controlled reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the connectivity parameter from fixed static links to dynamically reconfigurable paths. By programmatically altering the optical circuit switching fabric, the network can optimize resource allocation for different connection durations and traffic patterns without physical reconfiguration.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple fibers are used to handle multiple data traffic degrees, then traffic capacity increases, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical circuit switching fabric provides a universal platform that can handle multiple wavelengths and traffic types through a single reconfigurable structure. Instead of dedicated static connections for each traffic type, the system uses programmable switching elements that can be dynamically allocated to different services, reducing overall connection complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical circuit switching fabric as an intermediary layer between optical inputs and outputs. This switching fabric acts as a mediator that manages the complexity of multiple fiber connections by providing a centralized control mechanism for routing traffic, thereby simplifying the overall network architecture.
3Reliability
If static connections are established for on-demand services, then connection reliability is ensured, but network adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic reconfiguration capabilities that allow connection paths to be programmed and changed based on service requirements. This enables the network to adapt to varying traffic patterns and service demands while maintaining reliable connections through controlled switching operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary provisioning of optical circuits that can be activated on-demand. The switching fabric is pre-configured with the capability to establish connections rapidly when needed, combining the reliability of pre-planned paths with the flexibility of on-demand activation.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus of a network configuration configured to permit a dense wavelength division multiplexing (“DWDM”) element to connect to a storage server, an Internet Protocol (“IP”) router, and DWDM network are disclosed. The configuration includes the DWDM network, storage area network (“SAN”) server, IP router, and optical transport network (“OTN”) switch. While the DWDM network transports information via optical fibers, the DWDM switch is coupled to the DWDM network for transporting optical signals. The SAN server is coupled to a port of the DWDM switch and is configured to store data at a remote location. The IP router which is coupled to the DWDM switch facilitates IP traffic between a user and the DWDM network. The OTN switch, coupled to the first DWDM switch, is capable of processing at least a portion of the optical signals.