Expandable Switching Element Modular Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switching devices face challenges in expanding capacity without disrupting service, as reconfiguration often requires taking the switch out of service and involves complex modular additions.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves configuring switching modules with both front panel and backplane accessible ports, allowing for pairing of enhanced and forwarding modules to increase switching capacity with minimal disruption, enabling seamless expansion of switch fabric without disconnecting existing cables or removing old equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If switching modules are added to increase capacity, then switching capacity is improved, but service disruption occurs during reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The switching system is divided into multiple independent switching modules that can be added individually to increase capacity. Each module operates independently and can be configured without affecting other modules, allowing capacity expansion while maintaining service continuity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures multiple switching modules with identical interfaces and connection protocols before deployment. When capacity needs to be increased, pre-configured modules can be rapidly integrated without requiring complex real-time reconfiguration, minimizing service disruption during the expansion process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular switching modules are used to enable capacity expansion, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
All switching modules in the system use identical standardized interfaces, connection protocols, and configuration procedures regardless of their position or function. This universal design allows any module to be added to any slot without requiring specialized configuration knowledge, simplifying the complexity of modular expansion while maintaining high adaptability.
3Loss of time
If existing cables and equipment are maintained during expansion, then loss of time is reduced, but switching capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system expands capacity by adding new switching modules in parallel to existing modules rather than requiring sequential reconfiguration of existing cables. This dimensional approach allows multiple switching paths to operate simultaneously, increasing total capacity while maintaining existing cable connections and equipment without requiring time-consuming reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of the invention may comprise pairing a first switching module with a second switching module such that the first switching module is enabled to switch signals received via its first input ports and its second input ports to its first output ports and second output ports, wherein the signals received by the first input ports of the first switching module are communicated from the first output ports of the second switching module, and the signals communicated by the first output ports of the second switching module are signals received by the second input ports of the second switching module and forwarded to the first output ports of the second switching module.