Sub-queue Thresholds for Ethernet Frame Fragmentation in PONs
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Solution Overview
Problem
In passive optical networks (PONs), especially Ethernet PONs, upstream bandwidth is often wasted due to the inability to fragment Ethernet frames, leading to inefficient bandwidth allocation and usage, as ONUs can only transmit entire frames and not partial ones, resulting in unused capacity.
Innovation Solution
Implementing sub-queues with defined thresholds at the Optical Network Units (ONUs) that buffer packets, ensuring that only complete Ethernet frames are added when there is adequate space, and using a sub-queue length detection module to report accurate data to the OLT for efficient bandwidth allocation, preventing fragmentation losses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If ONUs transmit entire Ethernet frames upstream without fragmentation, then protocol simplicity is maintained, but upstream bandwidth is wasted when only partial frames need transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the upstream transmission process by introducing sub-queues that can independently transmit partial Ethernet frames. Instead of treating entire frames as atomic units, the system divides the frame data into manageable segments across multiple sub-queues, allowing selective transmission of only the necessary portions and eliminating bandwidth waste from incomplete frame transmissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic frame transmission by allowing ONUs to transmit varying amounts of data based on actual needs rather than fixed frame boundaries. The sub-queue mechanism enables flexible, dynamic allocation of upstream bandwidth proportional to the actual data volume required, transforming the static frame-based transmission model into a dynamic data-driven approach.
2Loss of energy
If sub-queues with thresholds are implemented to enable partial frame transmission, then upstream bandwidth efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the traditional single upstream queue into multiple sub-queues, each capable of holding partial frame segments. This segmentation allows independent management of different data portions, enabling the system to transmit only the necessary amount of data for each sub-queue without requiring complex coordination across the entire frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by implementing sub-queues that can transmit partial portions of Ethernet frames rather than requiring complete frame transmission. Each sub-queue operates independently with its own threshold, allowing the system to send only the minimum necessary data to satisfy transmission requirements, thereby improving bandwidth efficiency while keeping individual queue management relatively simple.
3Device complexity
If complete Ethernet frames must be transmitted upstream, then protocol simplicity is maintained, but bandwidth allocation precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the upstream transmission process by introducing sub-queues that can independently transmit partial Ethernet frames. Instead of treating entire frames as atomic units, the system divides the frame data into manageable segments across multiple sub-queues, allowing selective transmission of only the necessary portions and eliminating bandwidth waste from incomplete frame transmissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where ONUs report their sub-queue status and data requirements to the OLT, which then allocates bandwidth based on actual needs rather than fixed frame boundaries. This feedback loop enables precise bandwidth allocation proportional to the actual data volume required, transforming the static frame-based transmission model into a dynamic data-driven approach.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a method and apparatus for maintaining sub-queues at an ONU and for maintaining a count of an amount of data stored in each sub-queue or a count of an amount of data associated with elements stored in each sub-queue. The sub-queues represent partitions in a first in, first out (FIFO) queue used by the ONU to buffer packets, or elements that are associated with packets, to be sent upstream. The sub-queues are coupled in series such that the output of a first sub-queue feeds the input of a second sub-queue, the output of the second sub-queue feeds the input of a third sub-queue, etc. Each sub-queue has a defined threshold that sets a maximum amount of packet data it can buffer or the elements in which it buffers can be associated with.