Patent Document

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to messaging techniques within an optical communication network. More specifically, the present invention provides a secure communication approach in an optical network environment which reduces overhead operations and avoids the necessity for additional equipment. 
     Communication systems have become an important portion of todays electronic society. Generally speaking, these networks and systems provide the ability for vast amounts of information to be communicated as desired and/or necessary. As is well known, examples of these communication systems include the internet, Ethernet systems, networks within contained systems (i.e. automobiles, aircraft, etc.), home networks, and wireless networks. Further, cellular telephone, WiFi, SatCom, IEEE 802.11, etc. systems are also considered to be other types of a communication network. 
     In each of the above listed examples, a necessity or desire exists to communicate information from one component to another in a specified manner. In certain instances this communication may be more widespread, including transmission to multiple receivers. When transmitting to multiple receivers, the process is often straightforward as “receiver considerations” are not necessary. Stated alternatively, these transmissions can simply be broadcast and allowed to be picked up by any receiver desiring to acquire the particular signal. As an example, broadcasts over on-air systems to multiple receivers is considered to be one such system. 
     More challenging however, is the communication from one specific source to a single desired receiver. This will often include communication amongst components in a network (e.g. a processor to a printer in an office network). Further, if security is required the challenge of such communication is increased. 
     To achieve organized communication across virtually any network, protocols and standards are essential. Stated alternatively, some common understanding regarding the way information is transmitted, and the format in which it will be received, is required for these systems to be operational. Many variations may exist depending on the particular circumstances involved. For example, an open network may be involved such as the internet in which information can be widely broadcast and user access is very widespread. The generation of a website accessible on the internet is one example of this communication scheme. Alternatively, closed networks may be involved where only dedicated equipment is connected to the network, thus limiting communication accordingly. One example of this type of configuration is a small office Ethernet that allows communication amongst various computers. Obviously, in a closed environment communication protocols and standards can be much more easily controlled due to the limited access provided. Additionally, the type of information being transmitted may impact the protocol utilized. 
     Fiber optic communication is widely utilized in various systems due to the well known advantages of optical communication. That said, optical communication networks and systems are continuously evolving as the technology becomes more and more advanced. The further development of optical components allows for new applications and options involving optical signals. System designers simply have more tools at their disposal, thus giving them more options. 
     As mentioned above, communication amongst components and different systems has become an integral part of society. One of the most basic issues dealt with in communication relates to the addressing and routing of messages or information to achieve smooth communication flow. Another issue relates to the security and controlled access to the communicated messages. Those skilled in the art of network communication are typically familiar with packet type communication in which messages are generated in a “packet” format which can then be routed to appropriate locations. This packet communication methodology is utilized in many areas including the Internet and various voice communication systems. 
     Security has become an inherent concern in the communications field for some time. As a starting point, it is desirable to ensure that messages are appropriately transmitted and received by the various components within a system. The next level of security relates to controlled access and the avoidance of messages being intercepted or accessed by undesired recipients. To achieve a desired level of security, various measures have been historically utilized, including encryption, limited network access, and addressing security. One previously utilized method of addressing security involves the incorporation of a security kernel into each source and destination within the system. This security kernel methodology incorporates hardware and software components to achieve desired security levels. In essence, this security methodology utilizes look-up tables at both the source and destination which are consulted to ensure access is appropriate. Stated alternatively, each message contains a source and destination indicator, and the security kernel within each node verifies the approved source and destination combination. Utilizing a look-up table at the message source, the intended recipient is verified to ensure delivery is appropriate. Similarly, a recipient will have access to a virtually identical look-up table. When a message is received, this look-up table is consulted in ensure that the recipient rightfully has access to the received message. Once this verification takes place, access to the message itself is verified thereby allowing message communication to be further carried out. 
     As generally described above, prior art secure communication systems have utilized a security kernel to provide secure communications. One exemplary system carrying out this security methodology is illustrated in  FIG. 1 . This exemplary system illustrates a pair of nodes within a system—one transmitting node  20  and one receiving node  50 . For purposes of simplicity, receiving node  50  and transmitting node  20  have been simplified by omitting additional components. For example, any components that may exist within either node to allow dual purpose operation (transmit and receive) has been omitted. Naturally, the receiving portion of communication nodes simply mirrors the transmission portion, and vise-versa. 
     Referring now specifically to  FIG. 1 , message transmit node  20  is illustrated which includes a source system  22 , a security kernel  24 , a transmitter  26  and a look up table  28 . As will be appreciated, source  22  will generate the desired message. In this communication scheme, the message is generated in a packet form, which is also illustrated in  FIG. 1 . More specifically a message packet  30  includes fields denoting an identification of a source  32 , a destination  34 , a message label  36  and data  38 . In operation, message packet  30  is first passed from source system  22  to security kernel  24 , which performs the first step of providing necessary security. Security kernel  24  will read the source indicator  32 , destination indicator  34  and label  36  so this information can be compared with data stored in look up table  28 . Specifically, look up table  28  contains a listing of the approved message communication combinations allowed within the particular system. For example, look up table  28  may contain an indication that a particular source and destination are allowed to communicate only information having a predetermined label. Further, the label may designate the related data as confidential, secret, top secret, or unprotected. In this case, look up table  28  will contain a listing of communication source and destination pairs that are approved for certain levels of information. Using this information, only certain destinations and sources may be approved for top secret information (for example). Security kernel  24  is then capable of providing a first security check before information is transmitted to insure the appropriateness of messages being transmitted. If approved by security kernel  24 , message packet  30  is then transferred to transmitter  26  for transmission across network  40 . 
     As further illustrated in  FIG. 1 , and as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the receiving process of nodes connected to network  40  involves the use of a receiver  52 , and a security kernel  54  existing at receiving node  50 . At this point, receiving security kernel  54  will perform the same security check outlined above, using a look up table  56  which is virtually identical to look up table  28  discussed above. At this point, receiving node  50  security kernel  54  will approve or deny transmission of the message packet  30  to a destination system  58 . 
     Again, utilizing the system described above, certain complications and problems exist utilizing the security kernel approach. Most significantly, this operation requires processing overhead and time during the communication process. Additionally, messages transmitted to a destination node, must first be stored in local memory for comparison by the relevant look up table. If messages are not approved, or not intended for that particular destination, additional steps must be taken to ensure their deletion from local memory. Again, this provides additional overhead and processing. Verification of security kernels will obviously take some amount of time, thus affecting the speed and throughput of message communications. While this may appear to be negligible at first, when higher volumes are transmitted, any additional steps can slow communication. Naturally, this is an undesirable situation. Further, the security kernel  24  exists as an electrical operation, typically before conversion to optical communication signals by transmitter  26 . It would be beneficial to provide communication security while still in the optical domain, thus taking advantages of speed and low losses typically involved without the co-communication. 
     One additional methodology utilized to approach security from a different perspective includes the use of encoding or encrypting of messages. As recognized by those skilled in the art, many different encryption schemes exist. Generally speaking, these encryption schemes apply some scrambling techniques to the actual data, in a controlled and relatively straightforward manner. However, the scrambling technique is only known to the transmitter and receiver, thus allowing access to communication while limiting access by others. Encoding involves a somewhat similar technique, however often directed towards transmission concerns as opposed to security concerns. Again, encoding involves the scrambling of information which can then only be descrambled by those knowing the encoding technique. One well known encoding methodology involves code division multiple access (CDMA) which is widely utilized in voice communication technologies. For example, cell phone communications widely utilize this CDMA technology. Other encoding methods are used for putting parallel digital information into a serial form. Examples include 8B/10B, 4B/5B, Manchester, PPSK, etc. 
     While various technologies exist for both implementation of optical communications across networks and security measures, further shortcomings still exist. Again, optical communication networks are evolving and continuously improving, however do not operate as flexibly and efficiently as current electrical communication networks. Similarly, the use of encoding methodologies in optical networks is not yet fully developed. As such, it is desirable to develop a communication technique for use in optical networks which ensures both efficiency and security concerns. Other optical encoding methods are SCM, TDM, OFDM, TDMA, etc. Those could be used for some level of encryption or address keying. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides a more robust and effective communication process which also ensures increased security. Further, the system and method of the present invention allows for the effective control of message communications to ensure operability on an optical communication network and address necessary security concerns. The system and method of the present invention also eliminates the use of a security kernel, thus removing related overhead and operational hurdles related thereto. 
     As suggested above, the system and method of the present invention is specifically tailored to optical communication networks and secure communication within those networks using existing components. The system and method utilizes optical code division multiple access (OCDMA) to associate a unique code sequence with each message transmitted or group of messages. Based upon this unique code sequence utilized for the message encoding, only the target destination will be capable of decoding the transmitted message. Utilizing this methodology, secure communication is achieved while avoiding the use of security kernels and related overhead as discussed above. 
     The steps involved for the above referenced optical communication first require the generation of message packets, as is commonly carried out in standard network communication. Next, each packet is encoded using a unique code sequence based upon pre-defined security policies for the network. Once encoded, the packet can be transmitted across the network. Because of the unique encoding methodology utilized, only the particular nodes on the network for which the message is intended will receive the communication. The receiving destinations will also have access to the aforementioned unique code, thus providing the ability to decode the message utilizing the same encoding scheme utilized to generate or transmit the message. Without this unique code, others on the network will not recognize the packet as a message and will not be able to decipher the message transmitted. Consequently, security is achieved without the added overhead of security kernels, encryption codes, etc. 
     Utilizing the above outlined methodology, the present invention achieves secure communication in an efficient and effective manner. Additionally, the communication security scheme is implemented using optical components and optical signals, thus providing the advantages of optical communication. Further, efficiency is improved by eliminating the need for a security kernel thus avoiding additional system and process overhead. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Further objects and advantages of the present invention can be seen from reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawings in which; 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic illustration of an exemplary prior art communication system utilizing a security kernel; 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic illustration of the communication system of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 3  is a flow chart generally illustrating the communication methodology utilized; 
         FIG. 4  is a graphical timing diagram for one bit of optically coded information; and 
         FIG. 5  is a system diagram illustrating one exemplary system utilizing the security methodology of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 6  is an illustration of one potential filter for use in the system of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     As referenced above, the present invention achieves secure communication through the use of a unique optical encoding scheme and addressing methodology, which provides both security and efficient communication in an optical network. The method is carried out using optical components, thus allowing all steps to take place in an optical domain. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , an optical communication system  110  is illustrated which carries out the transmission and communication methodologies of the present invention. As will be further discussed below, this illustrates the basic operating components of such a communication system. It is contemplated that the system will be one part of a larger network, thus only selected components are shown for ease of illustration. 
     The overall communication system of the present invention will include at least one transmission system or transmission node  118 , having at least one source system  120 . Further, the communication system will also include at least one destination system  190 . In the example illustrated in  FIG. 2 , a methodology and communication system is utilized to communicate messages between source system  120  within transmission node  118 , and destination system  190  within a destination node  180 . As can be anticipated, source system  120  will generate the content for a message to be delivered, and provide this content to an optical transmitter  122 . As well known by those familiar with optical components, optical transmitter  122  will simply convert the necessary signals from electrical to optical signals. At this point, the optical signals are transmitted to an encoder  124 . Encoder  124  also has an input from a code generator  126 . Code generator  126  controls the security and encoding processes of the present invention to ensure that the transmitted messages are only readable by designated destinations. In order to achieve this security, code generator  126  provides unique codes for each destination or set of destinations of the communication network which are intended to receive the particular message. Using this unique code, encoder  124  is capable of encoding the message prior to transmission. Once encoded, the message is transmitted to an optical backbone  130  for distribution across an entire network. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , a plurality of nodes  118 ,  140 ,  150 ,  160 ,  180  are all connected to optical backbone  130 . Each receiving node will include a decoder  142 ,  152  and  162 , along with an optical receiver  144 ,  154 ,  164  and  184 . As can be appreciated, each decoder includes a unique code capable of recognizing messages transmitted across the optical backbone which are intended for that node. As will be more fully explained below, if the messages are not encoded utilizing the same unique code, the various decoders are unable to recognize the message itself, thus providing an initial level of security for the network. 
     As mentioned above, communication system  110  includes a destination system  190  which, in this particular example, is the targeted destination for the relevant encoded messages. Destination system  190  is part of a destination node  180  which includes a decoder  182  and an optical receiver  184 . In this particular case, decoder  182  includes the same unique code that was utilized by encoder  124  to encode the particular message in question. Consequently, decoder  182  will first recognize that a message exists on the optical backbone  130  and be able to appropriately decode the particular message. Once decoded, the message is transmitted to optical receiver  184  and thus communicated to destination system  190 . Utilizing this communication scheme, encoded messages are transmitted across the network in a manner to avoid interception by undesired destination nodes. Consequently, secure communication is achieved in an efficient manner. 
     While the above example illustrates the transmission of a single message from a source system  120  to a destination system  190 , it will be recognized by those skilled in the art that multiple nodes can be included as part of the optical communication system outlined above and multiple messages can simultaneously be transmitted on backbone  130 . Using these multiple messages, network communication traffic can be achieved linking numerous components to one another while also providing selective security to ensure delivery to only a prescribed node. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3  there is a general flow chart illustrating the top level steps outlined above. As indicated, process  200  starts with node  1  generating a message at step  202 . Next, an appropriate unique code is determined for the message. Determining the code in this manner will ensure the same unique code is utilized by both the transmitter and receiver. This is carried out in step  204  of  FIG. 2 . Following the determination of this unique code, the message is then appropriately encoded utilizing the unique code at step  206 . Once encoded the message is transmitted at step  208 . Once transmitted across the network, node  2  will recognize the message at step  210 , based upon the unique encoding of the message. Lastly, at step  212  node  2  will thus receive the message and take appropriate action as necessary. 
     It is generally anticipated that the systems and process outlined above will be utilized in optical communication systems. One exemplary method for coding is optical code division multiple access encoding (OCDMA). Naturally, other encoding techniques could be utilized. However, utilizing OCDMA allows for broadband transmission of messages across a network while also providing the above discussed measures. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , there is shown a graphical illustration of OCDMA coding methodologies. Specifically,  FIG. 4  illustrates one bit of information which has been encoded using optical signals of four different wavelengths. In this particular example, each cell of the illustrated grid represents a chip  402 . In this particular case, four different wavelengths have been chosen, and are illustrated as λ 1 , λ 2 , λ 3  and λ 4  on the vertical axis of the grid. Further, time slices are illustrated, with each designated as t 1 , t 2 , t 3 , t 4 , to t n . For this particular encoding scheme, the shaded boxes illustrate those wavelengths and time periods which would be designated as containing meaningful information. Encoders of the present invention will contain the necessary information to encode relevant information at the designated wavelengths and time periods. Consequently, any receiver which does not have a corresponding decoder, will not be able to decipher meaningful information from the encoded signal. As can be anticipated, multiple wavelengths and multiple time periods are potentially usable, thus providing for many code variations in the encoding scheme. These code variations can provide strong code separation necessary for secure applications. 
       FIG. 5  is a system diagram illustrating one potential application of the present invention. In a closed optical network environment  500 , several devices are connected to a network  540  via appropriate connections. This example shows an input device  510 , a first sensor device  520 , a second sensor device  530 , a processor  550  and a communication port  560  all connected to network  540 . Utilizing the OCDMA example discussed above, each of these nodes will include appropriated filters to incorporate an appropriate coding methodology. As illustrated, input device  510  includes an input/output filter  512  at its interface. Similarly, first sensor device  520  includes interface filter  522 . Second sensor device  530  includes an interface filter  532 , communication port  560  includes an interface filter  562  and lastly, processor  550  includes an interface filter  552 . In this particular illustration, the relevant interface filters have been drawn in slightly different configurations to signify differences there between. Specifically, these differences are simply designed to affect different coding using various codes. Each of these codes is similar to that illustrated in  FIG. 4  above. For example, first sensor filter  522  and second sensor filter  532  are configured to be substantially identical. More significantly, each incorporates the same code. Processor  550  includes an interface having multiple filters, thus capable of communicating using several codes. In this particular system, first sensor  520  and second sensor  530  are intended to communicate with processor  550 . Similarly, input device  510  is configured to communicate only with processor  550 . Likewise, communication port  560  is designed to potentially allow communication only with processor  550 . Thus, because different coding is used in the encoder/decoder incorporated in each device (i.e. node) this controlled and secure communication is achieved. 
     As an example of the unique coding suggested above, messages are easily passed from input device  510  to processor  550  over the network  540 . That said, first sensor  520  and second sensor  530  will not recognize messages intended for communication only between processor  550  and input device  510 . Similarly, messages communicated between processor  550  and Com. port  560  will utilize another unique code, thus accommodating the passages of messages while also providing security. As other components attached to network  540  do not have the necessary codes, they again will not recognize information being transmitted. 
     Various methodologies may be used for the implementation of filters or encoders/decoders.  FIG. 6  illustrates one potential filter for use in the present systems. In this particular device, a fiber  600  is specifically treated to have various reflection points reactive to selected wavelengths. The reflection points are positioned at specified locations in order to achieve a prescribed timing, as illustrated in the related timing diagram. Consequently, spread spectrum signals received by this component will have selected frequencies reflected at specific points in time, causing those particular components to be separated and recognized. The reflected signals can be fed to a decoder  620  which is then capable of recognizing the data provided, and performing further processing. This is simply one example, and other examples may exist for relevant filters. 
     While the system and method outlined above provide one mechanism for achieving encoded optical communications, those skilled in the art recognize that many variations and alternatives may exist. These alternatives and variations include all systems and processes coming within the scope and spirit of the following claims. It is not intended or contemplated that the present invention be limited to only the embodiment discussed and illustrated above.

Technology Category: 5