Multilayer Packet Optical Network Edge Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multilayer communication networks face inefficiencies and high costs as they become more resource-intensive and costly when operating at higher protocol layers, necessitating a method to move packet traffic from higher layers (e.g., layer 2) to lower layers (e.g., layer 1) without sacrificing network efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a network design that utilizes more layer 1 switches and bypasses or reduces the use of layer 2 switches by moving traffic exceeding a certain bandwidth threshold to layer 1, thereby optimizing network efficiency and reducing costs, while maintaining a 'thin core' packet network architecture that can scale well economically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If packet traffic is handled at layer 2 (packet layer), then network functionality and control are improved, but resource consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts packet processing functionality from layer 2 devices and relocates it to layer 1 optical switches. Specifically, packet classification, routing decisions, and forwarding are moved from electronic packet switches to optical switching fabric, leaving only edge devices to perform basic packet handling. This extraction reduces resource consumption at layer 2 while maintaining network functionality through optical layer processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical switching layer (layer 1) that mediates between packet sources and destinations. Optical switches act as intermediaries to forward traffic based on optical signals without requiring full packet processing at electronic layer 2 devices. This intermediary approach enables efficient traffic routing while reducing the processing burden on packet layer devices.
2Productivity
If more layer 2 switches are used to maintain network efficiency, then packet handling capability is improved, but device count and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges packet switching and optical switching functions into a unified multilayer architecture. Layer 1 optical switches and layer 2 packet switches work together as an integrated system, with optical switches handling bulk traffic forwarding and packet switches providing intelligent routing and control. This merging reduces the need for numerous standalone layer 2 switches while maintaining packet handling capability through coordinated multilayer operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical copies of packet data to enable parallel processing and forwarding. Optical switching fabric creates and manipulates optical copies of traffic flows, allowing simultaneous routing decisions and traffic forwarding without requiring multiple electronic packet switches. This copying mechanism enables efficient traffic handling with fewer physical devices.
3Use of energy by moving object
If traffic is moved to layer 1 optical network, then resource efficiency is improved, but network architecture complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network functions across multiple layers with clear separation of responsibilities. Layer 1 optical switches handle high-speed traffic forwarding and optical signal processing, while layer 2 packet switches provide routing control and packet management. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently, improving resource efficiency while managing architecture complexity through functional decomposition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic traffic steering mechanisms that adaptively route traffic between layer 1 and layer 2 based on traffic characteristics and network conditions. The multilayer architecture dynamically adjusts the distribution of traffic processing between optical and packet layers, enabling resource-efficient operation while managing complexity through adaptive control rather than static configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An optimized communication network may include an edge switch capable of transporting and switching L1 and L2 traffic and configured to selectively transport and switch L2 traffic using L1 protocols.