Integrated CDC ROADM Module for Smaller Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Colorless, Directionless, and Contentionless (CDC) Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer (ROADM) configurations are costly and equipment-intensive, making them less effective for smaller degree nodes, prompting the need for a more cost-effective solution that supports CDC functionality in these nodes.
Innovation Solution
An integrated ROADM module with M common input and output ports and N add/drop ports, utilizing an M×N Contentionless Wavelength Selective Switch (CWSS) for both degree-to-degree connectivity and local add/drop functions, featuring WSSs made from Liquid Crystal On Silicon (LCOS) and MEMS mirrors or Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC), which reduces equipment and power consumption by consolidating switching elements into a single module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional CDC ROADM configurations are used, then flexibility and functionality are improved, but cost and equipment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the degree module and add/drop module into a single integrated ROADM module, merging previously separate WSS-based degree connectivity functions and add/drop functions into one unified structure. This integration maintains CDC flexibility while reducing the number of discrete components and equipment requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated ROADM module performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides degree-to-degree connectivity, local add/drop functionality, and wavelength selective switching all within a single module. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated modules for each function, reducing overall equipment requirements while maintaining full CDC capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional CDC ROADM configurations are used, then functionality is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the degree module and add/drop module into one integrated unit, the patent reduces the total bill of materials, assembly costs, and manufacturing complexity. The shared WSS components and unified structure eliminate redundant elements, directly reducing production costs while preserving full CDC functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal integrated module that handles multiple functions (degree connectivity, add, drop, and wavelength switching) reduces the need for multiple specialized components, thereby lowering overall system cost while maintaining complete functional capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional CDC ROADM configurations are used, then flexibility is improved, but equipment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces equipment quantity by combining previously separate degree modules and add/drop modules into a single integrated module. This merger eliminates redundant WSS components and interconnections, reducing the total number of discrete equipment pieces while maintaining full CDC flexibility through the integrated architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal integrated module consolidates multiple functions into one piece of equipment, reducing the quantity of separate devices needed. A single module now performs what previously required multiple separate components, thereby reducing equipment quantity while preserving all CDC capabilities.
4Device complexity
If integrated ROADM module is used, then equipment and footprint are reduced, but functionality must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of degree and add/drop functions into a single module is achieved without sacrificing functionality. The shared WSS components and unified control architecture ensure that all CDC capabilities (colorless, directionless, contentionless operations) are fully maintained while reducing equipment count and footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal module design ensures that consolidating multiple functions into one device does not compromise functionality. The integrated architecture provides degree connectivity, add, drop, and wavelength switching capabilities simultaneously, maintaining full adaptability and versatility despite the reduced equipment count.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The optimized CDC ROADM architecture significantly reduces equipment, footprint, and power consumption while maintaining flexibility, making it suitable for smaller degree nodes with lower costs and reduced complexity, enabling efficient CDC functionality in smaller nodes.
Implementation Method 1
The M 1×N WSSs can be each formed using Liquid Crystal On Silicon (LCOS)
Implementation Method 2
The N M×1 selector switches can be formed using Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) mirrors or a Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC)
Data Source
AI summary
A Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer (ROADM) node with a Colorless, Directionless, and Contentionless (CDC) architecture, targeting smaller degree nodes, includes an integrated ROADM degree and add/drop module having M common input and output ports and N add/drop input and output ports, wherein the integrated ROADM degree and add/drop module is formed by an M×N demultiplexer Contentionless Wavelength Selective Switch (CWSS) and an M×N multiplexer CWSS; and X degree modules, each having an input and output port connected to common ports of the integrated ROADM degree and add/drop module, a first set of ports of the N add/drop input and output ports are connected for degree-to-degree connectivity and a second set of ports of the N add/drop input and output ports are utilized for local add/drop, such that the integrated module provides both the degree-to-degree connectivity and the local add/drop.