Passive Optical Splitter for Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing datacenter networks face challenges in efficiently increasing bandwidth due to the high cost and complexity of physically connecting each computer, and varying bandwidth demands over time, which traditional methods struggle to address effectively.
Innovation Solution
A computer network architecture utilizing a combination of direct and shared communication links, including a passive optical splitter that allocates bandwidth dynamically based on demand, with an upper level switch connected to lower level switches via both direct and shared links, allowing for flexible bandwidth allocation using techniques like time-division multiplexing and wavelength-division multiplexing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If physically connecting each computer to each other computer is implemented, then bandwidth is improved, but cost and complexity increase prohibitively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical splitters as intermediary devices that enable multiple computers to share common communication links. Instead of direct point-to-point connections between all computers, the optical splitters act as mediators that distribute signals across the network, dramatically reducing the number of physical connections required while maintaining high bandwidth capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical splitter components serve multiple functions simultaneously - they divide incoming optical signals to multiple destinations, combine signals from multiple sources, and enable both dedicated and shared communication paths. This multi-functionality allows a single infrastructure to support varying bandwidth demands without requiring separate physical connections for each scenario.
2Productivity
If the number of physical connections is increased to meet peak bandwidth demands, then bandwidth is improved, but cost increases and efficiency decreases during low-demand periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic bandwidth allocation where the available bandwidth is not fixed but can be adjusted based on real-time demand. During low-demand periods, bandwidth is conserved or reallocated to other uses, while during peak periods, the full capacity of the optical links is utilized. This dynamic approach eliminates the waste associated with provisioning for peak demand during off-peak times.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic monitoring and adjustment of bandwidth allocation based on traffic patterns. The network infrastructure can periodically reassess bandwidth requirements and reconfigure resource allocation accordingly, allowing efficient utilization of physical connections across varying demand cycles without requiring permanent over-provisioning.
3Reliability
If dedicated physical connections are used for each computer pair, then bandwidth reliability is improved, but adaptability to varying bandwidth demands deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network infrastructure into dedicated physical connection layers and logical bandwidth allocation layers. The physical optical connections provide reliable, stable transport paths, while the logical layer using optical splitters and controllers enables flexible bandwidth allocation. This segmentation allows each layer to optimize for its specific function - reliability at the physical level and adaptability at the logical level.
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 efficient reallocation of bandwidth to meet changing demands, reduces costs by using less expensive multimode fiber for direct links, and ensures a minimum guaranteed bandwidth for each switch, while dynamically adjusting to varying traffic patterns.
Implementation Method 1
a passive optical splitter having a first port coupled to a third port of the upper level switch, a second port coupled to the second port of the first lower level switch, and a third port coupled to the second port of the second lower level switch. The passive optical splitter is configured to transmit signals received at its first port as output signals on both of its second and third ports.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for increasing bandwidth in a computer network are provided. A computer network can include a first lower level switch having a first port and a second port. The computer network can include a second lower level switch having a first port and a second port. The computer network can include an upper level switch having respective ports directly coupled to ports of the first and second lower level switches. A third port of the upper level switch can couple to a first port of a passive optical splitter. The passive optical splitter can have second and third ports coupled to respective ports of the first and second lower level switches. The passive optical splitter can be configured to transmit signals received at its first port as output signals on both of its second and third ports.