Optical Transceiver Ring Interface for MDU Signal Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for interfacing an Optical Line Terminal (OLT) with a multi-dwelling unit (MDU) are either hardware expensive due to the need for multiple optical fiber connections or software expensive due to the requirement for complex network configuration and policing functions to ensure Service Level Agreements and privacy protection.
Innovation Solution
A ring-connected system of Optical Network Units (ONUs) that converts GPON optical signals to electrical signals, allowing a single optical connection to interface an entire MDU, with redundant protection via a second optical line, and distributes signals through North and South ring interfaces, eliminating the need for multiple optical receivers and complex software configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple optical fiber connections are run to each ONU in an MDU, then each user receives dedicated optical service, but hardware cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple ONUs are electrically connected in a series ring topology, allowing a single optical fiber connection to serve multiple users. The optical signal is converted to electrical signals at each node and distributed through the ring, merging multiple service deliveries into one physical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
An electrical ring interface acts as an intermediary between the optical domain and customer premises equipment. The optical-to-electrical conversion at each ONU node allows electrical signal distribution through standard copper wiring, eliminating the need for multiple optical fibers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single ONU is assigned to an MDU with network processor and Ethernet switch, then multiple ports are available, but software complexity and configuration cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network function is segmented across multiple simple ONU nodes in a ring, rather than concentrating complexity in a single ONU with network processor and Ethernet switch. Each node performs simple optical-to-electrical conversion and signal distribution, eliminating complex software configuration requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple identical ONU nodes are deployed in the ring, each with the same basic functionality. This eliminates the need for complex software configuration and policing functions, as each node operates independently with standardized behavior.
3Reliability
If polling and policing functions are enabled to guarantee SLA and privacy protection, then service quality is improved, but software expenditure and development cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple, standardized ONU nodes without complex polling and policing software. Service quality is maintained through the physical ring topology and electrical signal distribution rather than expensive software-based SLA management.
Data Source
AI summary
A ring connection system and method are providing for distributing signals in an optical-to-electrical interface. The method electrically connects a plurality of nodes in a series-connecting ring, and receives an optical signal at a first node from a service provider. The method converts the optical signal to an electrical signal, and distributes the electrical signal via the ring. At each node, the electrical signal is supplied from a customer interface. Typically, each node has a plurality of customer interfaces. In one aspect, ITU-T G.984.3 Giagbit-capable Passive Optical Network (GPON) optical signals are received converted to a customer interface electrical signal such as an Ethernet connecting transfer mode, or time division multiplexed signal. Electrically connecting the plurality of nodes in the series-connected ring includes: series connecting the nodes in a North ring; and, series connecting the nodes in a South ring, opposite in direction from the North ring.