Optical Migration Filter for WDM Band Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Migrating data traffic from an existing optical WDM transmission system to a new system without requiring additional optical paths, while minimizing outage time, is challenging due to the need for separate fiber pairs and high installation costs or complete system disconnection.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using an optical extension band in the new system that does not overlap with the existing system's band, allowing both systems to operate on the same paths during migration, with an optical migration filter device directing traffic between the systems, and eventually allowing the new system to use the entire optical band for increased capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a further optical path (pair of fibers) is spent on all routes to enable simultaneous operation of existing and new systems, then both systems can operate concurrently during migration, but the device complexity and installation costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from spatial separation (separate fiber pairs) to spectral separation (different optical bands). The new system uses an optical extension band that does not overlap with the existing system's band, allowing both systems to share the same physical fiber infrastructure while operating concurrently through wavelength division.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical migration filter device embodies universality by handling multiple functions: it filters and directs traffic between the existing and new systems, enables seamless migration, and allows both systems to coexist on the same physical paths. This single device replaces the need for separate dedicated paths.
2Reliability
If a further optical path is required for migration, then simultaneous operation is enabled, but additional installation costs and effort are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of installing additional physical fiber pairs (spatial expansion), the solution uses spectral dimension by assigning different optical bands to existing and new systems. This eliminates the need for new cable installation while enabling migration.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical migration filter device acts as an intermediary that facilitates the migration process. It is installed at network nodes to direct traffic between the existing and new systems, enabling migration without requiring additional optical paths throughout the entire network.
3Productivity
If the existing system is completely disconnected to install the new system, then the new system can be fully deployed, but the outage time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The new system is pre-configured and tested before migration begins. Network nodes are prepared in advance with the optical migration filter device, allowing traffic to be switched to the new system without disrupting ongoing operations. This preliminary preparation enables minimal outage time during the actual migration.
Solution Approach 2:
The migration process is made dynamic and flexible, allowing traffic to be switched between systems in a controlled manner. The optical migration filter device enables dynamic routing decisions, allowing gradual migration of traffic streams rather than requiring complete system shutdown.
4Productivity
If the new system uses the same optical band as the existing system, then bandwidth utilization is maximized, but the existing system cannot be replaced without disrupting ongoing traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The optical spectrum is segmented into distinct bands: the existing system uses one optical band while the new system uses an extension band. This segmentation allows both systems to operate simultaneously without interference, enabling the new system to take over traffic gradually while maintaining continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of competing for the same optical band, the solution moves to a different spectral dimension. The new system utilizes an optical extension band that is spectrally separated from the existing system's band, eliminating conflicts and enabling seamless coexistence during migration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables seamless migration with minimal outage time and reduced costs by allowing the new system to take over all traffic without needing additional fiber pairs, using the same optical paths and increasing transmission capacity.
Implementation Method 1
an optical migration filter device (400) adapted to direct incoming data traffic that is received via the respective optical network path and that uses the extension band to the network node of the new optical WDM transmission system, to direct outgoing data traffic originating from the network node of the new optical WDM transmission system that uses the extension band to the respective optical network path
Data Source
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Figure 5a~5c
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for migrating data traffic from an existing optical WDM transmission system to a new optical WDM transmission system, the existing optical WDM transmission system using a first optical transmission band and the new optical WDM transmission system being capable of using a second optical transmission band, wherein the second optical transmission band at least partially comprises the first optical transmission band and a further extension band that does not overlap with the first optical transmission band, the method comprising the steps of. According to the invention, a migration filter device (400) is used in order to connect, during a migration phase, the network nodes (100) of the existing system and the network nodes of the new system to the network paths (300) that have been used by the existing system. During the migration phase, both systems are operated in parallel, wherein the new system uses the extension band only. In this way, during the migration phase, the data traffic handled by the existing system can stepwise be switched to the new system. After all data traffic has been switched to the new system, the existing system can be deinstalled. The migration filter devices (400) can stepwise be deinstalled.