FEC Code Switching in PON Downlink Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

In passive optical network (PON) systems, the downlink direction lacks support for switching between multiple forward error correction (FEC) codes, limiting adaptability and flexibility.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for switching between different FEC codes in the downlink direction of a PON system, involving determining a target operational FEC code based on transmission channel quality and traffic requirements, and notifying devices to switch and decode user traffic data accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If FEC code switching is enabled in the downlink direction, then the adaptability and flexibility of the PON system is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic FEC code switching in the downlink direction by allowing the OLT to select and switch between multiple FEC codes based on real-time channel quality assessment. The system transitions from a static FEC configuration to a dynamic one where the operational FEC code can be changed during operation to adapt to varying network conditions, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity through controlled switching mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of FEC code selection dynamically. Instead of being fixed, the system can switch between different FEC codes (e.g., from LDPC to Turbo codes) based on channel quality metrics. This parameter change enables the system to optimize performance under different transmission conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized switching procedures and protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If multiple FEC codes are supported in the downlink direction, then the throughput and redundancy performance is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovethroughputVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the OLT assesses channel quality and automatically selects the appropriate FEC code without requiring manual intervention. The system monitors transmission conditions and adjusts FEC codes accordingly, making the complex multi-code capability transparent to users. This automated feedback-driven selection maintains high throughput and redundancy performance while preserving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-optimization by automatically selecting and switching FEC codes based on real-time channel quality assessment. The OLT evaluates transmission conditions and independently determines the best FEC code to use, eliminating the need for user configuration or manual FEC code selection. This self-service approach enables the system to maintain optimal throughput and error correction performance while keeping the operation simple for end users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4546679A1Forward error correction code type switching method, and device and storage medium
Publication Date: 2025.04.30 ZTE CORP
  • EP4546679A1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP4546679A1 patent drawingFigure 4~6
  • EP4546679A1 patent drawingFigure 7

AI summary

Provided are a forward error correction code switching method and device and a storage medium. A forward error correction code switching method applied to a first device includes determining a target operational forward error correction code according to a predetermined transmission channel quality and a target traffic requirement; and notifying a second device of the target operational forward error correction code to enable the second device to switch a current operational forward error correction code to the target operational forward error correction code and decode user traffic data according to the target operational forward error correction code.