Patent ID: 6748170
Filing Date: 2004-06-08
Classification: H04L,H04Q

Abstract:
A method for optimizing the routing of a data stream using Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) over an optical network employing Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM), wherein said network comprises a plurality of nodes interconnected by physical links comprised of optical transmission media suitable for carrying data at a plurality of carrier wavelengths, said method comprising the steps of:determining the number of hops for a plurality of logical links between pairs of said nodes, wherein each logical link is associated with a distinct Virtual Path Channel (VPC); assigning a first carrier wavelength to each logical link having only one hop; and for each logical link having more than one hop, i) employing a non-deterministic algorithm with the objective function of minimizing the total number of hops to separate each logical link into a sequence of logical link portions, or Virtual Path Links (VPLs); ii) selectively grouping at least a first VPL associated with a first VPC with a second VPL associated with a second VPC to form Virtual Paths (VPs) between adjacent ones of said nodes; and iv) assigning a second carrier wavelength to each said VP.