A feedback-based hybrid OBS/OCS architecture with fast-over-slow capability

Abstract

Dynamic bandwidth allocation in response to the bandwidth requirements of new emerging applications is an essential demand for future optical networks. Hybrid switching architectures combining the benefits of different switching technologies in a single node are key elements to support wavelength and sub-wavelength granularities. This paper proposes a novel feedback-based hybrid OBS/OCS node architecture that integrates slow (ms regime) and fast (ns regime) switching elements, aiming at flexible bandwidth allocation while reducing the related costs. Such a node utilizes the pre-transmission idle periods of slow elements in order to send those contending fast bursts, thus improving the overall network performance. The obtained simulation results illustrate significant improvement in terms of Burst Loss Rate (BLR), and lower related network costs when compared to previously proposed hybrid OBS/OCS node architectures.