Pluggable Module Bidirectional Data Transport Traffic Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity and cost of optical network systems are increased due to the need for multiple domain conversions between electrical and optical domains, leading to higher technical complexity, space occupation, and power consumption.

Innovation Solution

A pluggable module for bidirectional data transport via optical fibers that performs traffic management, including electrical transmission, impairment mitigation, and operation administration and maintenance functionalities, with an embedded communication channel for exchanging management data between near and far-end modules, reducing the number of domain conversions and system complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple domain conversions between electrical and optical domains are performed, then data transport functionality is achieved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transport functionalityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple domain conversion functions (electrical-to-optical and optical-to-electrical conversions) into a single integrated pluggable module. This module includes both transmitter and receiver components that can perform bidirectional conversions without requiring separate external devices, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining full data transport functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pluggable module is designed as a universal device that can perform multiple functions: electrical-to-optical conversion, optical-to-electrical conversion, and bidirectional data transport. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized devices for each function, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple domain conversions are performed, then data transport is enabled, but space occupation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transport capabilityVSAvoidspace occupation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple conversion functions into a single compact pluggable module that occupies minimal space. By combining transmitter, receiver, and control circuits into one module, the physical space required is significantly reduced compared to using separate external devices for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pluggable module employs a nested structure where the receiver unit is integrated within the transmitter unit housing. The control circuit is embedded within the module, and all components are nested together in a compact arrangement that minimizes space occupation while enabling multiple domain conversions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple domain conversions are performed, then data transport functionality is achieved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedomain conversion capabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple domain conversion operations into a single integrated module, reducing the total power consumption compared to using separate external devices. The shared control circuit and integrated architecture minimize redundant power usage while maintaining full bidirectional conversion capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pluggable module includes an integrated control circuit that automatically manages the domain conversion operations without requiring external control devices. This self-service capability reduces the power consumption associated with external control systems while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Device complexity

If traffic management functionality is integrated into the pluggable module, then system complexity is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the traffic management functionality into discrete, modular components within the pluggable module. The transmitter, receiver, and control circuits are segmented into separate functional units that can be manufactured independently and then assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while enabling integrated traffic management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The pluggable module is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple traffic management functions through a single integrated design. This multi-functionality is achieved through standardized interfaces and modular components that can be configured for different applications, simplifying manufacturing compared to producing multiple specialized devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2071860B1A method and a system for bidirectional transport of data
Publication Date: 2015.05.06 ADVA OPTICAL NETWORKING SP ZOO
  • EP2071860B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2071860B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2071860B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a network comprising at least one host device (2) having an interface card (4) connected to a backplane (5) of said host device (2), wherein said interface card (4) comprises at least one cage (6) for receiving a pluggable module (1) which performs a traffic management of data transported via at least one optical fibre (3) connected to said pluggable module (1).