Single-Layer MxN WSS Optical Node for CDC Add/Drop

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical node architectures that achieve colorless, directionless, and contentionless (CDC) add/drop functionality require multiple layers of components, leading to increased cost, complexity, and physical size.

Innovation Solution

An optical node architecture utilizing a single layer of M×N wavelength selective switches (WSSs) connected to each inbound and outbound fiber, allowing for CDC functionality with reduced complexity and size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple layers of components are used to achieve CDC add/drop functionality, then CDC functionality is achieved, but cost, complexity, and physical size increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveCDC add/drop functionalityVSAvoidnumber of component layers

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functional layers into a single integrated layer of M×N WSSs. Specifically, it merges the functions of wavelength selective switching, add/drop operations, and routing control into one unified component layer, eliminating the need for multiple sequential layers of components while maintaining full CDC functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The M×N WSS is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides wavelength selective switching, enables add/drop operations for multiple wavelengths, and supports routing to multiple directions all within a single component. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require separate specialized components arranged in multiple layers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple layers of components are used to achieve CDC add/drop functionality, then CDC functionality is achieved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveCDC add/drop functionalityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functional layers into a single integrated layer of M×N WSSs. Specifically, it merges the functions of wavelength selective switching, add/drop operations, and routing control into one unified component layer, eliminating the need for multiple sequential layers of components while maintaining full CDC functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple layers of components are used to achieve CDC add/drop functionality, then CDC functionality is achieved, but physical size increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveCDC add/drop functionalityVSAvoidphysical size of optical node

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functional layers into a single integrated layer of M×N WSSs. Specifically, it merges the functions of wavelength selective switching, add/drop operations, and routing control into one unified component layer, eliminating the need for multiple sequential layers of components while maintaining full CDC functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10028040B1Colorless, directionless, contentionless optical network using MxN wavelength selective switches

Publication Date: 2018.07.17 WELLS FARGO BANK NA

AI summary

An optical node may include D (D≥2) input ports, D output ports, and D degrees. Each degree may include an inbound M×N (M≥D, N≥2D) WSS and an outbound M×N WSS. Each inbound M×N WSS may include an input connected to one of the D input ports; inputs connected to outputs of inbound M×N WSSs of the other degrees; outputs connected to inputs of outbound M×N WSSs of the other degrees; outputs connected to inputs of inbound M×N WSSs of the other degrees; and a local drop port. Each outbound M×N WSS may include an output connected to one of the D input ports; outputs connected to inputs of outbound M×N WSSs of the other degrees; inputs connected to outputs of inbound M×N WSSs of the other degrees; inputs connected to outputs of outbound M×N WSSs of the other degrees; and a local add port.