Modular Network Node Architecture for Dynamic Reconfiguration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical networking node architectures are inflexible, as they are designed to operate exclusively as a specific type of node, making it difficult to reconfigure regenerator nodes for add/drop functionality or terminal node operations without interrupting service.
Innovation Solution
A modular network node architecture with a configurable switching element and interchangeable modules, allowing nodes to be dynamically adapted between different types such as regenerators, add/drop nodes, and multi-way nodes within the same base architecture, minimizing cabling and power consumption while enabling real-time configuration without service disruption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a node is designed to operate exclusively as a specific type of node, then the node architecture is simplified and easier to manufacture, but the adaptability and flexibility of the node is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The node is divided into modular components including a base architecture and interchangeable modules. Each module can be independently configured and replaced to change node functionality. This segmentation allows the same physical hardware to serve multiple node types (regenerator, add/drop, terminal) by simply changing which modules are installed, thus maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base node architecture is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple functions through modular configurations. The same base architecture supports different node types by combining various modules (regenerator modules, add/drop modules, terminal modules). This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by allowing a single simplified design to serve multiple purposes without requiring separate dedicated architectures for each node type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a node is reconfigured from one type to another, then the adaptability and versatility of the network is improved, but service disruption and loss of time occur
Solution Approach 1:
The node architecture incorporates dynamic reconfiguration capabilities that allow modules to be added, removed, or replaced while the node operates. The switching element can dynamically redirect traffic paths to accommodate module changes. This dynamic approach enables node type changes during operation, minimizing service disruption time and allowing the network to adapt without complete shutdowns.
Solution Approach 2:
Before physical module changes are made, the system performs preliminary configuration actions by pre-programming the switching element and preparing traffic routing paths. This preliminary setup ensures that when modules are physically replaced, the reconfiguration process is faster and causes minimal disruption to ongoing services, as the path redirection is already planned and validated.
3Reliability
If multiple dedicated node architectures are maintained for different node types, then each node type can be optimized for its specific function, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple dedicated node architectures are merged into a single unified base architecture that can perform all required node functions through modular combinations. Instead of maintaining separate dedicated designs for regenerators, add/drop nodes, and terminal nodes, the system combines them all into one platform where functionality is achieved by selecting different module combinations. This merging reduces overall system complexity while preserving the functional optimizations of dedicated designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The base architecture serves as a universal platform that replaces multiple dedicated architectures. By designing the base with standardized interfaces and a configurable switching element, the system achieves multi-functionality without sacrificing the performance optimizations needed for different node types. The universality approach eliminates redundancy and simplifies inventory management while maintaining reliable, optimized performance for each node function.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a system, apparatus and method for modularly adapting a network node architecture to function in one of a plurality of potential node types. The architecture includes a configurable switching element, integrated optics, and a plurality of modules that allow a “type” of node to be adapted and configured within the base architecture. The module interfaces may be optical or electrical and be used to construct various different types of nodes including regenerators, add/drop nodes, terminal nodes, and multi-way nodes using the same base architecture.