Multi-Layer Traffic Grooming for Optical Network Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-level transport networks, existing methods for traffic grooming often lead to increased costs in one level (e.g., optical) while reducing costs in another (e.g., electrical), and there is a need for an efficient system to transition from SONET networks to wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) based full optical networks.
Innovation Solution
A method for automatically generating a computer-based layout of an optical communication network that includes multi-layer grooming at selected nodes, using a computer system with network planning software to form direct and spoke connections, and aggregate low-speed traffic into higher-speed connections within a combined SONET and WDM network, optimizing costs and network efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If each level (electrical and optical) is analyzed independently for traffic grooming, then costs in one level can be reduced, but costs in the other level increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the grooming analysis of electrical and optical levels into a unified multi-level grooming framework. Instead of analyzing each level independently, the system simultaneously optimizes both levels together, allowing cost savings in one level to compensate for potential increases in the other, thereby achieving overall network cost reduction while managing complexity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-level independent analysis to multi-level joint analysis by adding the dimension of inter-level optimization. The system considers both electrical and optical levels as interconnected dimensions, enabling holistic cost optimization that accounts for interactions between levels rather than treating them as separate one-dimensional problems.
2Productivity
If centralized ring bandwidth management (full hubbing) is used, then traffic grooming efficiency improves, but network cost increases due to additional equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial hubbing instead of complete centralized hubbing. Rather than routing all traffic through central hub nodes, the system selectively applies hubbing only where beneficial, allowing direct connections for certain traffic flows while using hub nodes for others. This partial application of centralized management maintains grooming efficiency for critical paths while reducing equipment costs by eliminating unnecessary hub infrastructure.
3Quantity of substance
If distributed bandwidth management is used, then network cost reduces, but traffic grooming efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements hybrid grooming with local quality optimization by allowing different grooming strategies at different network locations. Some nodes employ centralized hubbing for high-traffic areas requiring efficient grooming, while other nodes use distributed approaches for cost-sensitive areas. This localized differentiation enables the network to achieve both cost reduction and maintained grooming efficiency by matching the grooming strategy to local traffic patterns and requirements.
4Quantity of substance
If multi-layer grooming is implemented, then overall network cost reduces, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent develops a universal multi-level grooming system that simultaneously handles both electrical and optical levels with a single integrated framework. The system performs multiple functions including joint optimization of both levels, coordinated resource allocation, and unified cost analysis, thereby achieving overall cost reduction while managing complexity through multi-functionality rather than separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optimization parameters from separate single-level cost functions to a combined multi-level cost function that considers both electrical and optical levels simultaneously. By modifying the objective function to account for inter-level interactions and joint optimization, the system achieves cost reduction across the entire network while the parameter changes themselves provide a structured approach to managing the increased system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of automatically generating a computer based layout of an optical communication network is provided. First, communications traffic demand forecast data for an optical communication network is received. Network data corresponding to a deployed optical communication network is also received. Thereafter, a network plan can be automatically generated. The network plan corresponds to a modified network that may be deployed. Also, the network plan can be derived from the network data. Further, the network plan can be constructed in response to the performance of a grooming operation that includes a first level of grooming at an optical level of the modified network and a second level of grooming at an electrical level of the modified network.