Optical Network Element ODUk Carving Algorithm
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current Optical Transport Network (OTN) systems face challenges in automatic bandwidth allocation and multiplexing, leading to bandwidth fragmentation and interoperability issues between vendors due to fixed or manually provisioned Optical channel Data Unit (ODUk) structures, which require manual predetermination of traffic setup and restoration.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for automatically carving the smallest available ODUk bandwidth using a data structure and recursively descending algorithm, enforcing an OTN hierarchy policy to minimize bandwidth fragmentation and ensure interoperability, implemented through an optical network element with a processor and data store that iteratively analyzes and updates bandwidth allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed or manually provisioned ODUk structures are used, then interoperability between vendors is achieved, but bandwidth fragmentation occurs and bandwidth usage is not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic ODUk structure provisioning that automatically adapts to available bandwidth and connection requirements. The system uses algorithms to automatically carve ODUk structures on connection creation, allowing the network to dynamically optimize bandwidth allocation while maintaining interoperability through standardized interfaces. This resolves the contradiction by making the structure flexible rather than fixed, eliminating bandwidth fragmentation while preserving vendor interoperability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs automatic bandwidth allocation and ODUk structure carving that operates without manual intervention. The network elements autonomously provision connections by selecting appropriate ODUk structures based on available bandwidth and connection requirements, eliminating the need for manual predetermination of traffic setup and restoration. This self-service capability optimizes bandwidth usage while maintaining standardized interoperable structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual provisioning of ODTUG structures is performed, then arbitrary mapping levels can be supported, but micromanagement of structures at each intermediate link is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic ODUk structure carving that eliminates manual provisioning requirements. Network elements autonomously determine and establish appropriate ODTUG mapping structures based on connection requirements and available bandwidth, removing the micromanagement burden from operators while maintaining flexible mapping capabilities across different intermediate links.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the bandwidth allocation process into automatic, localized decisions at each network element. Each element independently carves ODUk structures based on local bandwidth availability and connection requirements, eliminating the need for coordinated micromanagement across the entire network while maintaining overall mapping flexibility.
3Productivity
If predetermination of traffic setup and restoration is required, then bandwidth allocation can be controlled, but bandwidth fragmentation and suboptimal usage occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static predetermination to dynamic automatic bandwidth allocation. The system continuously monitors available bandwidth and automatically carves ODUk structures based on current network conditions and connection requirements, maintaining allocation control while eliminating bandwidth fragmentation caused by predetermined structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms that monitor bandwidth availability and connection requirements in real-time. This feedback drives automatic ODUk structure carving decisions, allowing the network to adaptively optimize bandwidth allocation and eliminate fragmentation while maintaining controlled bandwidth distribution.
4Loss of energy
If automatic ODUk structure carving is implemented, then bandwidth fragmentation is minimized, but complex algorithms and data structures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automatic ODUk structure carving at network elements, where the system autonomously performs the complex algorithmic operations without external control. This distributes the computational complexity across multiple independent elements rather than requiring centralized complex processing, minimizing bandwidth fragmentation while managing algorithm complexity through localization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces standardized data structures and interfaces as intermediaries that simplify the implementation of complex carving algorithms. These standardized structures provide a common framework that reduces algorithmic complexity while enabling effective bandwidth fragmentation prevention across different vendor implementations.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides methods and systems for automatic carving of Optical channel Data Unit k (ODUk) levels on connection creation as well as the enforcement of an OTN hierarchy policy. In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides several methods of automatically carving Optical channel Data Tributary Unit Group (ODTUG) structures down to a desired ODUk layer during end-to-end circuit setup. These methods may include a recursively descending algorithm, an iterative array algorithm, and an ordered linked list algorithm. Additionally, to interoperate with network elements which may have a fixed ODTUG structure within an Optical channel Transport Unit (OTU), a method of policy enforcement describing each ODUk layer mapped into ODTUG structures is used to select a best match of the currently provisioned ODUk layers.