IGP RWA Information Distribution in Optical Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Determining routing and wavelength assignment (RWA) in wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) networks is challenging due to the need for sufficient information to ensure successful completion of the process, which is a key implementation hurdle for WDM technology in optical networks.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a control plane controller to transmit RWA information using an interior gateway protocol (IGP) to adjacent control plane controllers, including indicators for whether the information is static or dynamic and its association with nodes or links, facilitating distributed routing and wavelength assignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If RWA information is communicated using traditional routing protocols, then network simplicity is maintained, but the protocols lack the capability to convey sufficient RWA information needed for successful wavelength assignment in WDM networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments RWA information into distinct categories (node-specific, link-specific, and global parameters) and organizes them into structured data fields within IGP messages. This segmentation allows comprehensive RWA information to be transmitted systematically without overwhelming the protocol structure, resolving the contradiction between information completeness and protocol complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends existing IGP protocols to serve multiple functions: traditional routing information exchange plus new RWA information communication. By making the protocol multi-functional, it can convey both conventional routing data and specialized WDM network parameters (wavelength availability, connectivity matrices, etc.) without requiring entirely new communication mechanisms, thus balancing information completeness with protocol manageability.
2Ease of operation
If centralized RWA computation is used, then routing decisions are simplified, but network scalability and distributed control capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimension of control by separating the computation plane from the execution plane. Control plane controllers gather RWA information and perform computations, then distribute decisions to network elements. This dimensional separation enables both centralized intelligence for routing decisions and distributed execution for network operations, resolving the contradiction between decision simplicity and distributed control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces control plane controllers as intermediary entities between network elements and the RWA computation process. These controllers collect information from network elements, perform RWA computations using gathered data, and then communicate decisions back to the elements. This intermediary layer provides centralized intelligence while maintaining distributed network architecture, balancing ease of operation with adaptability.
3Measurement precision
If more RWA information is gathered and transmitted across the network, then routing accuracy improves, but network communication overhead and processing load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different network elements to advertise only the specific RWA parameters relevant to their local characteristics. Network elements transmit customized information sets based on their individual capabilities and states rather than uniform comprehensive data. This reduces overall communication overhead while maintaining routing accuracy, as each element contributes only the locally relevant information needed for accurate RWA decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by transmitting RWA information selectively and incrementally rather than all-at-once. Control plane controllers gather and process information in stages, requesting only the necessary data for current RWA computations. This partial information exchange approach reduces communication overhead and processing load while still achieving sufficient routing accuracy for operational decisions.
Data Source
AI summary
A network component comprising a control plane controller configured to implement a method comprising transmitting routing and wavelength assignment (RWA) information to at least one adjacent control plane controller, wherein the RWA information is transmitted using an interior gateway protocol (IGP). Included is a method comprising communicating a message comprising RWA information to at least one adjacent control plane controller, wherein the message comprises an indication whether the RWA information is static or dynamic. Also included is an apparatus comprising a control plane controller configured to communicate data to at least one adjacent control plane controller, wherein the data comprises RWA information, and wherein the data comprises an indicator that indicates whether the RWA information is associated with a node, a link, or both.