Optical Network Path Status Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
In optical communication networks, existing systems face challenges in efficiently managing and activating protection paths, particularly in mesh topologies where overprovisioned resources can lead to increased downtime due to the lack of real-time status information about protection path availability and usage.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where electronic devices in the optical network generate and transmit messages containing status information about protection paths, including a slot counter region, request region, connection ID counter region, and status region, to inform nodes about the availability and usage of protection paths, allowing for more informed decision-making and reducing downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If protection paths are overprovisioned in mesh topology, then network reliability is improved, but downtime increases due to lack of real-time status information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where status messages are continuously circulated among network nodes to provide real-time information about protection path availability. Each node monitors the status of protection paths and communicates this information to other nodes, enabling informed decision-making about path activation and reducing downtime while maintaining overprovisioning for reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring protection paths and pre-distributing status information throughout the network before failures occur. Nodes are already aware of the status of protection paths in advance, allowing them to quickly activate alternative paths when needed without waiting for status information to be gathered during a failure event.
2Measurement precision
If status information is continuously monitored, then path activation precision is improved, but message traffic increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple status indicators into a single comprehensive status message that circulates through the network. Rather than sending separate messages for each protection path status, the system combines availability, usage, and other relevant information into unified status messages that are distributed periodically, reducing overall message traffic while maintaining precise path activation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure may include a method to be performed by an electronic device in an optical network. The method may include generating a message associated with a slot and at least one connection identification (ID) corresponding to the slot. The message may include a slot counter region configured to identify the slot, a request region configured to activate a protect path utilizing the slot, a connection ID counter region configured to identify the at least one connection ID, and a status region configured to convey status of the at least one connection ID corresponding to the slot. The method may also include transmitting the message to other electronic devices in the optical network. The disclosure also includes associated systems and apparatuses.