Optical Interconnection Node for Core-Access Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical communication systems require inefficient optical-electrical-optical (OEO) conversion to transmit signals between different optical networks, leading to increased costs and reduced efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An interconnection node is configured to provide dynamic, purely optical interconnection access between a core optical network and access optical networks, using omni-directional and colorless multi-degree routing to route optical signals without OEO conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If optical-electrical-optical (OEO) conversion is used to transmit signals between different optical networks, then signal transmission between networks is enabled, but transmission efficiency decreases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the OEO conversion step from the signal transmission path. By implementing direct optical interconnection between core optical networks and access optical networks, the conversion process is eliminated entirely, thereby improving transmission efficiency and reducing device complexity associated with converters and transponders
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical/electrical conversion system with a purely optical system. Instead of converting optical signals to electrical signals and back, the system uses optical switching and routing components to directly forward optical signals between networks, replacing the OEO conversion mechanism with optical-domain processing
2Adaptability or versatility
If OEO conversion is implemented for interconnection, then network connectivity is achieved, but transmission costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the costly OEO conversion infrastructure from the interconnection architecture. By establishing direct optical links between core and access networks, expensive conversion equipment is eliminated, reducing transmission costs while preserving full network connectivity through optical-domain routing and switching
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic interconnection access is provided between multiple optical networks, then network flexibility improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal optical interconnection platform that can dynamically connect multiple different optical networks (core, access, and other networks) through a single multi-functional system. The optical cross-connect and routing components can handle various network types and traffic patterns, providing flexibility without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical cross-connect or wavelength cross-connect as an intermediary device that manages connections between multiple optical networks. This intermediary provides dynamic routing and switching capabilities, enabling flexible interconnection while centralizing control logic and simplifying the overall system architecture
Data Source
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AI summary
According to one general aspect, an interconnection node is configured to dynamically provide interconnection access between a first optical network (core optical network) and a second and/or third optical network (access optical network). The interconnection node may include a first network portion and a second and/or third network portions. The first network portion may be coupled with the first network that includes a first pair of wavelength cross-connect units coupled between a first transmission path of the first network, and providing a plurality of add and drop ports, and a second pair of wavelength cross-connect units coupled between a second transmission path of the first network, and providing a plurality of add and drop ports. The second and third network portions may be coupled with the first network portion of the interconnection node such that optical signals may be routed between the second and/or third network and the first network.