Dynamic Optical Routing Metrics for Layer 3 Path Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current routing metrics in multilayer optical networks are static and do not accurately reflect dynamic changes in optical circuit attributes like distance and latency, leading to suboptimal path selection and forwarding decisions at the layer 3 level.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating optical circuit distance and latency into routing metrics dynamically, allowing layer 3 network devices to make informed forwarding decisions by obtaining and reporting these attributes from optical network devices using protocols like GMPLS-UNI, and updating routing protocols to utilize these metrics for enhanced path computation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If static routing metrics based on link speed are used, then routing configuration is simple, but routing accuracy and adaptability to dynamic optical network conditions deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static routing metrics into dynamic ones by continuously monitoring optical circuit attributes (distance, latency, bandwidth utilization) and automatically updating routing metrics in response to changing network conditions, enabling the routing system to adapt to dynamic optical network environments without manual reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where routing metrics are continuously monitored and adjusted based on real-time optical circuit performance data, creating a closed-loop system that automatically responds to changes in network conditions and optimizes routing decisions
2Ease of manufacture
If manual static configuration of link attributes is used, then configuration effort is reduced, but accuracy of routing decisions deteriorates due to inability to reflect real-time network conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the routing system to automatically discover and monitor optical circuit attributes through integrated monitoring mechanisms, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining high accuracy in routing decisions through self-updating metrics based on real-time network conditions
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic optical circuit provisioning is implemented, then network flexibility and adaptability improve, but knowledge of accurate circuit attributes prior to routing decisions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary monitoring and characterization of optical circuit attributes during circuit provisioning and setup, storing this information in advance so that accurate routing metrics are available before routing decisions need to be made, even in dynamically provisioned networks
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a first optical network device includes a controller, and a first network interface, wherein the first network interface is configured to exchange data with a first layer 3 network device, and the controller is configured to obtain at least one optical circuit attribute including an optical circuit distance and/or an optical circuit latency of a first optical circuit in an optical network, and provide the at least one optical circuit attribute to the first layer 3 network device. Related apparatus and methods are also described.