Optical Link Aggregation for Asynchronous Low-Speed Data Streams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems face challenges in efficiently transmitting multiple low-speed data streams over high-speed optical communication links without introducing significant latency or data collisions, particularly when the low-speed streams operate under different protocols and are asynchronous with each other.
Innovation Solution
The method involves aggregating low-speed data streams into a high-speed data stream for transmission over an optical cable, dynamically adjusting the data transmission rate based on the number of aggregated streams, and allocating bandwidth to manage latency and protocol compliance, using a unified data and control transfer mechanism that enables seamless partitioning and de-aggregation of data streams at destination devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple low-speed data streams are transmitted over a high-speed optical link, then bandwidth utilization is improved, but data collisions and latency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the high-speed optical link into multiple virtual channels, each dedicated to a specific low-speed data stream. This segmentation is achieved through frame structure division, where each stream is assigned specific time slots and frame positions, preventing data collisions while maintaining efficient bandwidth utilization across the optical link.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic bandwidth allocation and rate adjustment mechanisms that adapt to varying traffic conditions. The system dynamically adjusts the transmission rate of aggregated streams based on current network conditions, allowing optimal bandwidth utilization while preventing data collisions through real-time rate control.
2Productivity
If multiple asynchronous low-speed data streams are aggregated into a high-speed stream, then transmission efficiency is improved, but protocol compliance becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary devices (optical link aggregation devices and destination devices) that act as protocol translators. These intermediaries manage the aggregation of asynchronous low-speed streams into high-speed streams while maintaining protocol compliance through standardized frame structures and control mechanisms, simplifying the complexity of direct multi-protocol interactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms multiple low-speed asynchronous streams into a unified high-speed synchronous stream by changing key parameters including transmission rate, timing characteristics, and frame structure. This parameter transformation maintains protocol compliance while achieving efficient transmission through standardized optical link protocols.
3Speed
If data streams are transmitted continuously over optical links, then data transmission rate is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic transmission patterns with active and idle periods. During idle periods when no data needs to be transmitted, the optical link can be placed in a low-power state, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining high transmission rates during active data transfer periods. This periodic operation allows the system to achieve high average transmission efficiency without continuous high-power consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for transporting multiple low-speed data streams across a high-speed communication channel or link. In one embodiment of the method, first and second data streams are transmitted at first and second data transmission rates, respectively, via an optical cable, wherein the first and second data transmission rates are distinct. Components of the first data stream are transmitted via the optical cable between transmission of components of the second data stream via the optical cable, and components of the second data stream are transmitted via the optical cable between transmission of components of the first data stream via the optical cable.