Dynamic Cross-Frequency Path Configuration for WDM Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) networks face challenges in dynamically configuring cross-frequency paths to efficiently manage communication requirements and optimize network performance.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a dynamic cross-frequency path configuration system within WDM networks, utilizing optical add-drop multiplexors (OADM) and an intelligent controller that applies machine learning to identify optimal network paths based on operational parameters and performance measurements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a fixed operational channel grid is used in DWDM, then network stability and equipment interoperability are improved, but network adaptability and flexibility in supporting multiple transponder generations are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork stabilityVSAvoidnetwork adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic cross-frequency path configuration that allows the WDM network to adaptively change operational parameters in real-time. The system dynamically adjusts frequency allocations and path configurations based on current network conditions and requirements, transforming the static fixed grid into a dynamic flexible structure that maintains stability while enabling adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the operational parameters of the WDM network by introducing flexible frequency allocations and adjustable channel configurations. This allows the network to modify its operational characteristics without changing the physical infrastructure, enabling support for multiple transponder generations and formats while maintaining backward compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If dynamic cross-frequency path configuration is implemented, then network adaptability and optimization are improved, but system complexity and control difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork adaptabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intelligent controller as an intermediary component that manages the complexity of dynamic cross-frequency path configuration. This controller acts as a mediator between the physical WDM infrastructure and the logical network operations, automating the configuration and optimization processes while providing a simplified interface for network management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system divides the complex task of network configuration into manageable segments by separating the control plane from the data plane. The intelligent controller handles high-level configuration decisions while individual OADM devices and transponders execute specific localized functions, reducing the complexity burden on any single component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If flexible grid or gridless DWDM is used, then support for multiple transponder generations and formats is improved, but measurement precision and channel spacing control are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransponder compatibilityVSAvoidchannel spacing precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic configuration system that can adapt channel spacing and frequency allocations in real-time based on the specific requirements of different transponder generations. The system maintains precise control over channel parameters while allowing flexible adjustments to accommodate various formats and rates, transforming static precision constraints into dynamic adaptable parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20250133312A1Dynamic cross-frequency path configuration for wavelength division multiplexing networks
Publication Date: 2025.04.24 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P
  • US20250133312A1 patent drawing
  • US20250133312A1 patent drawing
  • US20250133312A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, identifying network elements of a wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) domain of an optical waveguide communication system that includes a group of optical-add-drop multiplexor (OADM) devices. Operations are observed for the WDM domain configured to deliver communication services configured for simultaneously transporting independent signals across a network of single optical waveguides. A demand for optical waveguide communication services is determined and the WDM network is configured according to the optical fiber communication link requirement and according to the observations. The configured WDM network includes at least one OADM device of the group of OADM devices configured to provide a WDM cross-frequency network path of the configured WDM network. Other embodiments are disclosed.