Segment Routing Optical Signal Path Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional segment routing in packet optical networks lacks flexibility in choosing L0/L1 paths, as segments/labels only address L2/L3 nodes, preventing the source node from dynamically selecting optical paths between nodes.
Innovation Solution
Introducing segment labels that identify L0/L1 devices and optical paths, allowing the source node to dynamically choose paths by generating and advertising segment labels for L0/L1 components, and updating forwarding tables to map these labels to physical paths within the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional segment routing is used with L2/L3 node addresses, then packet routing through the network is enabled, but dynamic selection of L0/L1 optical paths is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the routing information into two distinct parts: conventional L2/L3 segment labels for node identification and new L0/L1 segment labels for optical path identification. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each layer's routing capabilities without interfering with the other, enabling dynamic optical path selection while maintaining standard packet routing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to the segment label structure by introducing L0/L1 segment labels that operate alongside traditional L2/L3 labels. This dimensional extension transforms the routing system from a single-layer address-based approach to a multi-layer approach that includes physical optical path identification, enabling source nodes to dynamically select among multiple optical paths between L2/L3 devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple L0/L1 paths exist between L2/L3 devices, then path diversity and flexibility are improved, but conventional segments cannot dynamically choose which path to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces L0/L1 segment labels as intermediary elements that bridge the gap between L2/L3 packet routing and L0/L1 optical path selection. These intermediary labels carry specific optical path identification information that enables source nodes to make informed decisions about which physical optical path to use, while L2/L3 devices continue to operate with their conventional addressing without needing awareness of the underlying optical topology.
3Productivity
If L0/L1 path selection is enabled, then network efficiency and performance are improved, but forwarding tables must be updated to map new segment labels to physical paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-establishing the mapping between L0/L1 segment labels and physical optical paths in the forwarding tables of L2/L3 devices. This preconfiguration enables source nodes to efficiently select optimal paths without requiring real-time computation or complex runtime decision-making, thereby improving network transmission efficiency while keeping the complexity of path selection management manageable through advance preparation.
Data Source
AI summary
A packet optical network may include a packet optical gateway node that is configured to advertise a segment label to other nodes in the network where the segment label is used by a source node in place of a conventional segment routing label when the source node generates the list of labels included in the header of a data packet while establishing a path through a network. The segment label differs from a conventional segment routing label in that the segment label indicates the L0/L1 device or path as opposed to the L2/L3 device indicated by a conventional segment routing label.