Optical Network DPU Flexible Backhaul Model Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current optical network deployments require manual replacement and configuration of Distribution Point Units (DPUs) to switch between different backhaul models, leading to labor-intensive and costly management, development, and maintenance, as well as the need for suppliers to develop and maintain separate hardware and software for each model.

Innovation Solution

A method and device that enable flexible switching between multiple backhaul models by remotely controlling the DPU and Persistent Management Agent (PMA) to automatically store and restore configuration information, allowing the DPU to support all backhaul models on a single device without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual replacement and configuration of DPUs is used to switch between backhaul models, then each backhaul model can be reliably supported, but labor costs and management complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebackhaul model support reliabilityVSAvoidDPU switching operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The DPU is designed to support multiple backhaul models (TR-167 and TR-156) on a single device through software configuration rather than requiring separate hardware for each model. The device can dynamically switch between different backhaul models by receiving configuration messages from the OLT, eliminating the need for manual hardware replacement while maintaining reliable support for each model through proper software activation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate hardware and software are developed for each backhaul model, then model-specific requirements are met, but development and maintenance costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebackhaul model adaptabilityVSAvoidhardware and software development
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

A single DPU hardware platform is developed with the capability to support multiple backhaul models through software configuration. The device receives identification messages from the OLT indicating which backhaul model to activate, allowing the same hardware to adapt to different models without requiring separate development cycles or maintenance streams for each model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters (backhaul model configuration) through software rather than changing physical hardware parameters. By receiving configuration messages that indicate which backhaul model to use, the DPU adjusts its operational parameters to match the required model, eliminating the need for separate hardware variants.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If DPUs are manually configured when switching backhaul models, then configuration accuracy can be ensured, but deployment time and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoiddeployment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The DPU automatically receives and processes configuration messages from the OLT that indicate which backhaul model to activate. Instead of requiring manual configuration by operators, the device self-configures by parsing the received messages and activating the appropriate backhaul model, ensuring accurate configuration while dramatically reducing deployment time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the OLT sends identification messages to the DPU indicating the target backhaul model. The DPU parses these messages and automatically configures itself accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that ensures configuration accuracy through automated feedback from the network management system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11791898B2Method, device and computer-readable storage medium implemented in optical network
Publication Date: 2023.10.17 NOKIA SOLUTIONS & NETWORKS OY
  • US11791898B2 patent drawing
  • US11791898B2 patent drawing
  • US11791898B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method and an optical communication device implemented in an optical network and a computer-readable storage medium. In the method described herein, a distribution point unit (DPU) of the optical network receives a message comprising an identification of a target backhaul model from an Optical Line Terminal (OLT) in the optical network. The received message is parsed to obtain the identification of the target backhaul model. The target backhaul model indicated by the identification is used to communicate with the OLT. In this way, the DPU is compatible with many types of backhaul models and is capable of flexibly switching between the many types of backhaul models.