Optical Multicast Switch With Independent 1×1 Broadcast Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multicast switches face issues with coordination requirements for path reconfiguration and slower restoration times in 1:1 protection schemes, limiting their efficiency in optical networks.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of N 1×1 switches with variable optical attenuators (VOAs) for power balancing, allowing for reconfigurable operation modes including switching, broadcasting, and protection schemes, enabling independent control of optical signals through multiple ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If 1×N switches are used in traditional multicast switch architecture, then the device can direct input signals to multiple output ports, but the switch cannot simultaneously direct signals to both first and second paths, creating coordination requirements and slower restoration times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the traditional 1×N switch into multiple 1×1 switches (first switch and second switch) that can operate independently. Each 1×1 switch can be configured to pass or block signals, enabling simultaneous signal distribution to multiple paths without coordination requirements between switches.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces reconfigurability where the 1×1 switches can dynamically change their state between passing and blocking signals. This dynamic configuration allows the system to switch between different operation modes (multicast, broadcast, protection schemes) and achieve fast restoration by independently controlling each switch state.
2Adaptability or versatility
If 1×N switches are used, then the device can provide multicast functionality, but both switches need to be coordinated for path reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the switching function into independent 1×1 switches, each capable of making its own switching decision without requiring coordination with other switches. This eliminates the complexity of coordinating multiple switches while maintaining multicast functionality through independent switch configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
Each 1×1 switch operates independently and can autonomously configure its own state to pass or block signals. This self-service capability eliminates the need for inter-switch coordination, simplifying the overall system control while maintaining full multicast functionality.
3Reliability
If 1:1 protection scheme is used, then the device provides protection capability, but the restoration is slower compared to 1+1 protection scheme
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic reconfiguration of 1×1 switches to support both 1:1 and 1+1 protection schemes. The switches can rapidly change their pass/block states to implement fast restoration in 1+1 mode while maintaining the reliability of 1:1 mode, thus achieving both protection capability and fast restoration speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the switches by introducing variable optical attenuators (VOAs) that can adjust transmission ratios. This allows the system to optimize signal power levels during protection switching, enabling fast restoration while maintaining protection capability through parameter optimization rather than architectural changes.
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
Enhances network flexibility and reduces restoration time by allowing for efficient power balancing and independent control of optical signals, improving network resilience and performance.
Implementation Method 1
the VOA is configured to balance power between the optical signals by changing a transmission ratio of at least one of an input level of the first portion of the first optical signal and an input level of the third portion of the second optical signal such that the power level upon combination is substantially identical
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus includes a first input port, a first switch, and a second switch. The first switch and the second input port are in optical communication with the first input port. The apparatus also includes a second input port, a third switch, and a fourth switch. The third switch and the fourth switch are in optical communication with the second input port. Each switch is switchable between a first state to pass optical signals and a second state to block optical signals. The apparatus also includes a first combiner in optical communication with the first input port via the first switch and the second input port via the third switch. The apparatus also includes a second combiner in optical communication with the first input port via the second switch and the second input port via the fourth switch.