Switch Controller Wavelength Allocation for Optical Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Ethernet networks face challenges in efficiently managing and routing optical data flows across wavelength division multiplexed optical networks, particularly in data center environments, where existing protocols lack effective mechanisms for dynamic wavelength allocation and management.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a switch controller to receive and manage data flows, transmit control signals to identify available wavelengths, and allocate data traffic flows to these wavelengths, integrating optical signal processing and switching control within the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dynamic wavelength allocation is implemented in optical networks, then network performance and scalability are improved, but device complexity and control mechanisms increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical filter as an intermediary component that automatically identifies and signals available wavelengths to the controller. This mediator handles the complex task of wavelength detection and communication, allowing the controller to focus on high-level routing decisions while the optical filter manages the detailed wavelength identification, thus resolving the contradiction between improved network performance and reduced control complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The optical filter performs self-service by autonomously detecting which wavelengths are currently in use and generating return signals to indicate available wavelengths without requiring complex controller intervention. This self-service mechanism simplifies the overall control architecture while enabling dynamic wavelength allocation, thereby improving network performance without proportionally increasing control complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical transceivers are used to handle different wavelengths, then wavelength management capability is improved, but cost and device quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single optical transceiver that can operate across multiple wavelengths by dynamically tuning to different wavelengths based on controller instructions. This universal transceiver design eliminates the need for separate dedicated transceivers for each wavelength, thereby maintaining full wavelength management capability while significantly reducing the total quantity of optical transceivers required in the network
Solution Approach 2:
The optical transceiver is designed with dynamic wavelength tuning capability, allowing it to adaptively switch between different wavelengths as needed. This dynamic behavior enables one transceiver to perform the work of multiple static transceivers, improving wavelength management versatility while reducing the overall number of transceiver components needed in the system
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables efficient routing of optical data flows by dynamically allocating wavelengths, improving network management and reducing the need for multiple optical transceivers, thus enhancing network performance and scalability.
Implementation Method 1
receiving a return signal from the network switch, the return signal generated by an optical filter in the switch, the return signal indicative of an available wavelength for transmission of the data flow to the switch
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling optical data flow in a network is provided. The method includes: receiving, by a switch controller, a data flow including a plurality of data packets used for network management and control, the network switch including at least one wavelength tunable optical data transmission interface to a wavelength division multiplexed optical network; transmitting a control signal indicating which wavelengths are in use and which wavelengths are not in use to the network switch over a control link; receiving a return signal generated by an optical filter in the switch, the return signal indicative of an available wavelength for transmission of the data flow to the switch; allocating a data traffic flow to the available wavelength, and communicating the allocation decision to the network switch; and transmitting the data flow to the switch via an optical carrier signal having the available wavelength indicated by the return signal.