Optical Network Fiber Length Estimation Latency Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In optical networks, the discovery process when a new network device is introduced can result in higher latency due to uncertainty in response delays caused by unknown fiber lengths, leading to the need for large quiet windows that hinder low-latency applications.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of systems and methods that allow optical network devices to preliminarily estimate fiber length based on physical characteristics or information carried in broadcast messages, enabling more precise timing of response messages and reduction of the quiet window.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large quiet window is used to accommodate uncertainty in response delays, then all network devices can be discovered, but latency increases and network efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having network devices estimate fiber length before the discovery process begins. Devices use physical characteristics of received broadcast messages (such as signal strength, timing information, or embedded distance indicators) to calculate preliminary equalization delays. This preliminary estimation allows devices to predict when responses will arrive, enabling the quiet window to be sized appropriately rather than using a large fixed window, thus reducing latency while maintaining discovery completeness.
2Reliability
If a large quiet window is used to accommodate unknown fiber lengths, then response messages from all devices can be received, but the window size increases reducing network efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the quiet window size based on estimated fiber length parameters. Instead of using a conservative large fixed window, devices calculate preliminary equalization delays using physical characteristics of broadcast messages (signal attenuation, timing stamps, or embedded distance data). These calculated parameters enable each device to determine an optimized quiet window size specific to its distance from the discovering device, ensuring reliable response reception while maximizing network efficiency by minimizing unnecessary idle time.
3Loss of time
If preliminary fiber length estimation is performed, then quiet window size can be reduced, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using the results of the ranging process to refine and confirm the preliminary fiber length estimates. Devices first perform preliminary estimation using physical characteristics of broadcast messages to reduce the quiet window size. Then, during the ranging process, they exchange additional timing information and measure actual response delays. This feedback from the ranging process validates and adjusts the preliminary estimates, ensuring that the reduced quiet window size is appropriate while accounting for any measurement uncertainties.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed to a preliminary estimation process, which may be used by an optical network device. The optical network device may preliminarily estimate a length of fiber in the network and, from that, may estimate a preliminary equalization delay. The optical network device may then transmit a message over the optical network according to the preliminary equalization delay.