Reduced Beneš Switching Matrix for Cost-Effective Telecommunications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current telecommunications networks face high costs and inefficiencies in managing physical connections due to the need for frequent reconfigurations and manual connection setups, especially with the introduction of new services and increased competition, which is exacerbated by the asymmetry and high initial costs of traditional switching matrices.
Innovation Solution
A method for specifying a switching matrix using a reduced Beneš network with a plurality of interconnected switching elements, where the number of elements and connections are adapted to specific ingress and egress ports, allowing for equal arrangement and interchanging of switching elements to maintain functionality while reducing costs and production complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional cross bar switching matrix is used to provide non-blocking functionality, then connection flexibility is improved, but the initial deployment cost increases due to the square relationship between the number of cross bars and the number of cross points
Solution Approach 1:
The switching matrix is divided into multiple stages of switching elements rather than using a single large cross bar matrix. This segmentation reduces the number of switching elements required while maintaining non-blocking functionality through the multi-stage architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
Intermediate switching stages are introduced between the input and output ports. These intermediate stages act as mediators that enable connections to be established with fewer total switching elements compared to a direct cross bar approach.
2Ease of manufacture
If the number of switching elements is reduced to lower costs, then manufacturing cost is improved, but the asymmetry in the switching matrix increases making production more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent accepts and utilizes the asymmetry in the switching matrix configuration as a result of reducing the number of switching elements. The design embraces this asymmetry rather than attempting to maintain symmetry, thereby achieving cost reduction without requiring complex symmetric structures.
3Reliability
If manual connection setup is used to ensure reliable physical connections, then connection reliability is improved, but the overhead cost and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The switching matrix enables automated connection setup and reconfiguration without requiring manual intervention by service engineers. The system can autonomously establish and modify connections based on service requirements, eliminating the need for physical visits to service boxes.
Solution Approach 2:
Physical manual connection operations are replaced with electronic control of the switching elements. The mechanical act of manually connecting cables is substituted with electronic switching control, allowing remote and automated provisioning of services.
4Manufacturing precision
If service engineers visit service boxes to make connections, then connection accuracy is improved, but the overhead cost and customer waiting time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The switching matrix system performs connection operations autonomously without requiring service engineer visits. The automated switching control ensures accurate connection establishment while eliminating customer waiting time associated with manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of specifying a switching matrix over a Bene{hacek over (s)} network involves specifying a first number of ingress ports and a second number of egress ports for the matrix. Switching elements and connections between the switching elements are configured to the number of ports, and the matrix is subdivided into a plurality of sections. The switching elements and ports are moved and/or turned to obtain certain configurations, but connections are retained.