Programmable Optical Delays for Fair Synchronous Data Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic networks face challenges in ensuring fairness in data transmission and reception due to cable length variations and replication delays, leading to unequal data arrival times at different destinations, which is costly and inefficient to correct through manual cable adjustments.
Innovation Solution
Programmable delays are introduced into the optics hardware of fiber optic networks to compensate for cable length differences and replication times, allowing data to be transmitted and received synchronously by adjusting delays at the egress and ingress optics hardware based on real-time latency variances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual cable length adjustments are made to ensure synchronous data delivery, then data transmission fairness is improved, but labor cost and implementation complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cable length adjustments with an electronic delay mechanism implemented in the optics hardware. Instead of physically modifying cable lengths to achieve synchronous data delivery, the system uses programmable delay values that are electronically applied to compensate for cable length differences. This substitution eliminates the need for manual cable cutting or splicing while achieving the same fairness objective.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of cable length adjustment to an electronic parameter of delay value programming. By measuring actual cable lengths and calculating appropriate delay values, the system dynamically adjusts transmission timing through software-configurable parameters rather than physical modifications. This allows flexible, precise control over data delivery timing without the constraints of manual cable work.
2Loss of time
If cable lengths are modified to compensate for latency differences, then data arrival synchrony is improved, but material cost and network downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual model of the physical cable network by measuring actual cable lengths and using this information to calculate delay values. Instead of physically modifying cables, the system copies the cable length information into a digital representation and uses this data to programmatically determine the appropriate delay compensation. This virtual modeling approach eliminates material waste and labor costs associated with physical cable modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary measurement of cable lengths during network setup or maintenance windows, storing this information for future use. By预先 determining and storing cable length data, the system prepares delay compensation values in advance, eliminating the need for future cable modifications when latency issues arise. This preliminary action prevents both material waste and operational disruptions.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise cable length adjustments are performed to achieve synchronous delivery, then manufacturing precision is improved, but difficulty of operation and skill requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service system where the optics hardware automatically measures cable lengths, calculates appropriate delay values, and configures itself without requiring manual intervention. The system performs its own characterization and optimization, eliminating the need for skilled technicians to perform precise physical cable adjustments. This automation maintains high precision while dramatically improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the system measures actual cable lengths and uses this information to automatically calculate and apply appropriate delay values. The feedback loop continues to monitor and adjust delay parameters to maintain synchronous data delivery. This closed-loop control achieves precise timing synchronization while eliminating the need for manual measurement and adjustment skills.
Data Source
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AI summary
The technology is generally directed to programming delays in hardware already existing within fiber networks to reduce the unfairness in transmitting and receiving data. The delays may be programmed in the optics hardware after the deployment of the network. The delays may be determined based on the time it takes the networking switch to replicate data to be transmitted and/or the length of the cables. According to some examples, the delays may be programmed at either or both the egress and ingress optics hardware of a cable. The programmable delay reduces the unfairness of one destination, or end user, receiving data before another destination when the information is intended to be received synchronously.