Universal Transport Apparatus for Multi-Protocol Data Multiplexing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing large-capacity transport network technologies face challenges in accommodating multiple signals and protocols, such as SDH, SONET, Ethernet, and OTN, due to their reliance on specific synchronization protocols and apparatus configurations, which limits their ability to multiplex and demultiplex data efficiently across different link-layer protocols and transport data rates.

Innovation Solution

A data transport system with multiple physical ports that uses a first transport apparatus to notify a second transport apparatus of valid lane counts and identification information for each port, allowing for efficient multiplexing and demultiplexing of data without relying on specific link-layer protocols or transport lane counts, enabling flexible data transport across various protocols and rates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple transport apparatus are used to cover each OTN frame type, then signal compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal compatibilityVSAvoidapparatus configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal transport apparatus that can handle multiple signal types (SDH, SONET, Ethernet, OTN) through a single integrated structure. The apparatus uses a standardized mapping mechanism that can adapt to different frame types without requiring separate dedicated equipment for each protocol, thus achieving multi-functionality while reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter-based adaptation where the transport apparatus changes its operational parameters (such as frame structure, mapping rules, and synchronization methods) depending on the input signal type. This allows a single apparatus to dynamically adjust to different protocols like SDH, SONET, and Ethernet by modifying its internal processing parameters rather than requiring hardware changes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If synchronization detection patterns specific to SDH and SONET are used, then detection precision is improved, but adaptability to other protocols deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization detectionVSAvoidprotocol compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the synchronization detection function into protocol-specific modules. Each protocol (SDH, SONET, Ethernet) has its own detection pattern module, and the system selectively activates the appropriate module based on the input signal type. This segmentation allows high-precision detection for each protocol while maintaining overall system adaptability through modular architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary layer that translates between different protocol formats and a universal processing interface. This intermediary component receives various protocol signals, converts them into a standardized intermediate representation, and then processes them through common synchronization detection mechanisms, thereby achieving both precision and versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If apparatus configuration is reduced to a single circuit, then device complexity is improved, but functionality for multiple protocols deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapparatus configurationVSAvoidmulti-protocol support
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration capabilities within a single circuit architecture. The apparatus can dynamically change its operational mode and processing parameters based on the detected protocol type, allowing one physical circuit to perform multiple functions at different times. This dynamic adaptability enables multi-protocol support without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each protocol

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9521092B2Transport system and transport method
Publication Date: 2016.12.13 HITACHI LTD
  • US9521092B2 patent drawing
  • US9521092B2 patent drawing
  • US9521092B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A transport system comprises 2 apparatuses. The first transport apparatus notifies, for each of first physical ports, to the second transport apparatus, a valid first lane count and identification information of the first physical port. The second transport apparatus is configured to: obtain, for each of second physical ports, a valid second lane count and identification information of the second physical port; associate, based on the valid second lane count and the identification information of the second physical port, and the valid first lane count and the identification information of the first physical port, the identification information of the first and second physical port; and transmit, when data including identification information of one of the first physical ports is transmitted, the data from the second physical port that is identified by the identification information associated with the identification information of the one of the first physical ports.