Integrated 3-Way Branching Unit Switch Module for Undersea Optical Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Undersea optical communication systems face challenges in achieving path diversity and maximum capacity while maintaining a small footprint and low cost, due to limitations in housing size and the number of fiber pairs that can be accommodated, which affects the reliability and efficiency of branching units in redirecting traffic in case of link failures.
Innovation Solution
An integrated 3-way branching unit switch module with a small footprint is designed, utilizing pairs of 1×2 and 2×2 switches and circulators to provide path diversity and connectivity, allowing traffic to be redirected between multiple landing stations with reduced space and cost, using configurations that minimize insertion loss and component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional branching units are used to provide path diversity and traffic redirection, then reliability is improved, but device footprint and housing size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple switching functions into a single integrated module. Specifically, it integrates a first switching module with first and second switching states, and a second switching module with third and fourth switching states into one compact unit that provides path diversity between multiple optical cables, thereby achieving reliable traffic redirection without increasing housing size
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated switching module performs multiple functions within a single device: it enables traffic redirection between different optical cables, provides path diversity for failure protection, and supports multiple switching states (first, second, third, and fourth states) for flexible connectivity management, replacing what would traditionally require separate dedicated components
2Quantity of substance
If more fiber pairs are accommodated to increase capacity, then maximum achievable capacity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching capabilities where the switching modules can transition between multiple states (first, second, third, and fourth switching states) to adaptively route traffic across different fiber pairs. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to maximize capacity utilization and provide failure protection without requiring permanent dedicated paths for each possible connection
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the switching modules by transitioning between different switching states. Each state represents a different configuration of active optical paths, allowing the same physical infrastructure (fiber pairs) to serve different capacity requirements and connectivity patterns without adding physical components
3Area of stationary object
If integrated switching modules are used to reduce footprint, then housing size is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the switching functionality into distinct modular components (first switching module and second switching module) that can be manufactured and tested separately before integration. Each module has defined switching states and connection interfaces, allowing for standardized manufacturing processes and simplifying the overall assembly and testing procedures
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure describe systems, methods. and structures directed to an integrated 3-way branching unit switch module suitable for undersea application.