Wavelength Equalizing Arrays for Compact Optical Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing bandwidth demands at the edge of networks require new optical processing equipment that can manipulate optical signals at lower cost points, necessitating higher levels of optical signal processing integration.
Innovation Solution
A compact optical node using wavelength equalizing arrays for selecting and steering wavelengths, integrated with ROADM circuit packs to provide directionless add/drop functionality, channel monitoring, and embedded transponder capabilities, allowing for efficient optical signal management and integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional optical processing equipment is used to manipulate optical signals at the network edge, then signal processing capability is provided, but equipment cost and redundancy are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical processing functions (wavelength selection, add/drop operations, steering) into a single integrated optical node using wavelength equalizing arrays. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate equipment for each function, reducing overall device complexity and cost while maintaining full signal processing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The wavelength equalizing array serves multiple functions simultaneously: it performs wavelength selection for different optical degrees, enables directionless add/drop operations, and provides steering capabilities. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace multiple specialized equipment pieces, reducing redundancy at the network edge
2Productivity
If optical bandwidth manipulation is performed closer to end customers, then bandwidth needs are met, but equipment integration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates wavelength selection, add/drop functionality, and steering operations into a single optical node with wavelength equalizing arrays, enabling comprehensive optical bandwidth manipulation at the network edge without requiring multiple separate equipment pieces
Solution Approach 2:
The optical node is designed with modular wavelength equalizing arrays that can be allocated in different sets for different optical degrees and functions, allowing flexible configuration and scalability while maintaining integration
Data Source
AI summary
Example embodiments of the present invention relate to an optical node comprising of at least two optical degrees; a plurality of directionless add/drop ports; and at least one wavelength equalizing array, wherein the at least one wavelength equalizing array is used to both select wavelengths for each degree, and to perform directionless steering for the add/drop ports.