Dynamic Optical Distribution Network Power and Modulation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard Passive Optical Networks (PONs) are limited by static optical distribution networks (ODNs), which restrict flexibility in meeting varying customer service requirements, as they cannot dynamically adjust transmission line rates, modulation formats, or error correction coding to optimize bandwidth allocation for individual end points.
Innovation Solution
Introducing a method to dynamically adjust system parameters such as transmission line rates, modulation formats, and error correction coding in a PON system by making the ODN a controllable part of the network, allowing for flexible power distribution and modulation schemes based on customer requests, thereby enabling full-potential flexible PONs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the ODN is made static and passive to simplify network structure, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying customer service requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability to the ODN by enabling real-time adjustment of power distribution ratios and modulation formats. The ODN transitions from a static passive structure to a dynamically adaptable system where parameters can be modified based on customer service requirements, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing the ODN to dynamically adjust key transmission parameters including power distribution ratios, modulation formats (e.g., PAM2, PAM4), and forward error correction codes. These parameter modifications enable the system to adapt to varying service requirements without fundamentally changing the ODN structure, thus maintaining relative simplicity while achieving versatility.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If the ODN is made static to reduce power consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but network capacity and flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power distribution within the ODN, allowing the system to adjust power allocation to different ONUs based on their specific requirements. This dynamic approach enables the ODN to consume power efficiently by allocating resources only where needed, rather than maintaining static high-power configurations across all branches, thus resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and network capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in modulation formats (e.g., switching between PAM2 and PAM4) and power distribution ratios to optimize the balance between power consumption and throughput. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the system can achieve higher network capacity when required while consuming less power during normal operation, effectively resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and productivity.
3Productivity
If flexible modulation and FEC coding are applied to increase throughput, then network capacity is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by implementing a unified flexible-rate PON system architecture that can dynamically support multiple modulation formats (PAM2, PAM4) and FEC codes within the same ODN infrastructure. This multi-functional design allows the system to achieve high throughput when needed while maintaining a standardized platform, reducing the complexity that would arise from having separate dedicated systems for each modulation type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent manages complexity through parameter changes by allowing dynamic switching between different modulation formats and FEC codes based on channel conditions and service requirements. Rather than implementing permanently complex systems for all scenarios, the ODN adjusts parameters to match actual needs, achieving high throughput only when necessary and maintaining simpler operation during normal conditions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the ODN is made fully flexible to meet individual customer requirements, then adaptability is improved, but control complexity and system cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the OLT continuously monitors ODN conditions and customer service requirements, then dynamically adjusts power distribution ratios and modulation parameters accordingly. This closed-loop control system automates the complexity of managing individualized customer requirements, reducing the need for manual intervention and simplifying overall system control while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the ODN system to automatically adjust its own parameters (power distribution, modulation formats) based on monitored conditions and service requirements. The system performs self-optimization without requiring external manual configuration for each customer, thereby achieving customized bandwidth allocation while keeping control complexity manageable through automation.
Data Source
AI summary
This application relates to a method for managing traffic flow in a passive optical network (PON) which connects an optical line terminal (OLT) to a plurality of optical network units (ONUs) via an optical distribution network (ODN). The method may comprise obtaining one or more optimization parameters for a target state of the PON. The method may also comprise determining for one or more or each of the ONUs, a respective modulation scheme for communicating data between the OLT and that ONU. The method may further comprise determining a respective power distribution ratio for a distributive element of the ODN for one or more of the ONUs based on the determined modulation scheme and the one or more optimization parameters. Specifically, the distributive element may have a first port and a plurality of second ports. In particular, the first port may be associated with signal transmission between the OLT and the ODN, and each second port may be associated with signal transmission between the ODN and a respective ONU or a respective group of ONUs. Besides, each of the second ports of the distributive element may be associated with a power distribution ratio of optical power at that second port to optical power at the first port of the distributive element. Furthermore, the method may comprise adjusting a respective branch power for the one or more of the ONUs based on the determined power distribution ratio for communicating data between the OLT and the one or more of the ONUs.