Optical Node Routing With WXC-FXC Split Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The implementation of optical communication systems that can establish optical paths in units of wavelengths and fibers is costly due to the use of large-scale matrix switches like N×(N+k) matrix switches.
Innovation Solution
An optical node device with a first distribution unit (WXC) and a second distribution unit (FXC) that includes an N×k matrix optical switch, allowing for the establishment of optical paths in units of wavelengths and fibers by utilizing the distribution functions of both units selectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large-scale N×(N+k) matrix switch is used as a fiber cross connect to establish optical paths in units of fibers, then the system can handle both narrow and wide wavelength width signals, but the system cost greatly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical path switching function into two separate units: a wavelength cross-connect for wavelength-level switching and a fiber cross-connect for fiber-level switching. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for its specific function, with the fiber cross-connect using a smaller N×k matrix switch instead of a large N×(N+k) switch, thereby reducing system cost while maintaining the capability to handle both narrow and wide wavelength width signals.
2Productivity
If a wavelength selective switch is used to establish optical paths in units of wavelengths, then path setting efficiency is improved, but the system cannot handle optical signals with wide wavelength width
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional optical communication system where the fiber cross-connect serves as a universal switching unit that can handle both narrow wavelength width signals (by routing them to the wavelength cross-connect) and wide wavelength width signals (by routing them directly at the fiber level). This universal approach allows the system to maintain high path setting efficiency through the wavelength cross-connect while also gaining the versatility to handle wide wavelength width signals that cannot be processed by the wavelength selective switch.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided an optical node device including: a first distribution unit that switches a path of light having a specific type; and a second distribution unit that switches a path of light which has a specific type and can be handled by the first distribution unit and a path of light which has a specific type and cannot be handled by the first distribution unit, in which the second distribution unit includes an optical output unit that outputs the input light to at least one path of a first path which passes through the first distribution unit or a second path which does not pass through the first distribution unit, and an N×k matrix optical switch that is provided on the second path, includes N (N is an integer equal to or larger than 1) ports and k (k is an integer equal to or larger than 2) ports, and outputs the light, which is input to any port of the N ports, from any port of the k ports to which another second distribution unit is connected, and the optical output unit outputs the input light to at least the first path in a case where an optical path in units of wavelengths is established between terminals, and outputs the input light to at least the second path in a case where an optical path in units of optical fibers is established.