Reconfigurable Optical Add Drop Multiplexer Core With Modular Add-On Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current DWDM network elements are limited by being either non-reconfigurable or not multifunctional, restricting their ability to efficiently connect multiple add-on devices and provide advanced optical networking capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable optical add drop multiplexer core device (ROADM) with at least two different types of add-on devices, enabling the transmission and reception of multiple wavelengths and providing multifunctionality by connecting to multiple add-on devices, thus forming a multifunctional and reconfigurable optical node.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a ROADM is connected to only one add-on device, then the device complexity is reduced, but the functionality and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single ROADM core device to connect to multiple add-on devices (at least two不同类型), allowing the system to perform multiple functions including wavelength routing, adding, dropping, and various optical processing functions through different add-on devices, thereby resolving the contradiction between functionality and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the optical network functions by separating the reconfigurable routing function (ROADM core) from the specific processing functions (add-on devices). This segmentation allows the ROADM core to remain relatively simple while achieving enhanced functionality through modular add-on devices that can be selectively connected
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual fiber interconnection is used for pass-through connections, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reconfigurability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical fiber interconnection with an automated optical switching system. The ROADM core device provides reconfigurable optical paths that can be dynamically established and modified through control signals, eliminating the need for physical fiber plugging and unplugging, thereby improving both reconfigurability and ease of operation
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple add-on devices are connected to the ROADM core, then the functionality is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested architecture where multiple add-on devices are functionally integrated around a central ROADM core. The add-on devices can be selectively connected to the core, creating a nested structure that enables multifunctionality while maintaining modularity and controlled complexity through hierarchical organization
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical node includes a reconfigurable optical add drop multiplexer (ROADM) core configured to transmit optical signals of multiple wavelengths to and receive optical signals of multiple wavelengths from another optical node. The ROADM core is also configured to add optical signals thereto and to drop optical signals therefrom. The node also includes two different types of add-on devices, each connected to the ROADM core device and configured to process optical signals of multiple wavelengths. As a result, a multifunctional and reconfigurable optical node can be provided.