WSS Node Configuration Verification via Optical Power Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for verifying configuration of internal optical paths in wavelength selective switching nodes are complex, costly, and prone to errors, especially in large degree ROADMs, as they require dedicated hardware and disrupt traffic during the process.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses optical power detection to automatically verify internal optical path configurations without dedicated wavelengths or hardware, by identifying distinctive power patterns in both traffic and noise conditions, allowing for automated verification in existing and new nodes without disrupting traffic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated optical wavelengths or hardware are used for topology discovery, then configuration verification accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling existing optical paths to serve dual purposes: carrying traffic and providing verification signals. The upstream subsystem's existing optical output (traffic or noise) is reused for downstream verification, eliminating the need for dedicated verification hardware and wavelengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by having the upstream subsystem provide its own optical output (traffic or noise) as the verification signal for the downstream subsystem. The node verifies its own configuration using resources already present in the system, without requiring external dedicated verification equipment.
2Measurement precision
If dedicated optical wavelengths are used for topology discovery, then configuration verification accuracy is improved, but loss of time occurs due to traffic disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies continuity of useful action by maintaining traffic flow during verification. The upstream subsystem continues to provide optical output (either traffic or noise) without interruption, allowing verification to occur concurrently with normal operation and avoiding traffic disruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by having the upstream subsystem continuously provide optical output that can be used for verification at any time. This pre-prepared optical signal allows immediate verification without needing to interrupt traffic or perform setup actions that would cause disruption.
3Loss of information
If conventional topology discovery methods are used, then topology identification is achieved, but cost increases with node scaling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making existing optical resources serve verification purposes. The same optical paths and signals used for traffic carrying are also used for topology discovery and configuration verification, eliminating the need for additional dedicated verification resources that would scale with node complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by using the node's own existing optical output for verification purposes. This eliminates the need for external dedicated verification equipment or additional hardware resources, keeping costs constant regardless of node scaling.
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 approach simplifies the commissioning and upgrade of ROADMs, reduces costs, and prevents errors by enabling automated verification of internal optical paths in both directions, ensuring accurate configuration without additional hardware or traffic disruption.
Implementation Method 1
based on detecting optical power distinctive of the upstream subsystem and carried to the downstream subsystem
Data Source
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AI summary
Verifying a configuration of reconfigurable internal optical paths (970) in a wavelength selective optical switching WSS node (62) involves identifying which of several WSS subsystems (920,950, 960) is coupled upstream of a first internal optical path based on detecting optical power distinctive of the upstream subsystem and carried to the downstream WSS subsystem. The detecting can be of a power of wavelengths used for traffic (110), or a power of optical noise when there is no traffic (120). A record is made of the identified configuration. The automated verification can be carried out without the conventional dedicated optical wavelengths or dedicated optical hardware for inserting such additional wavelengths dedicated to discovery, and without disrupting the traffic if upgrading a node. It can be controlled locally or by an NMS such as an SDN controller.