Specialized Analysis, Modeling, and Optimization Tools for the Development of Innovative WDM Local Area Networks

We proposed to perform innovative research towards the developing of a simulation tool consisting of a comprehensive set of models and including modeling techniques that account for the complex interactions between optical network components in WDM LANs, such as those planned for aerospace platforms. To a large extent, the modeling effort will be guided by the ongoing work of the AS-3 WDM LAN working group, with experimental validation to be conducted later in Phase II through a testbed that is applicable to the development activities of the SAE AS-5659 industry standard open architecture. Specifically, Phase I will specify a technique to model optical return loss (ORL) in a system simulation tool, such as OptSim from RSoft Design Group; determine the nature of the complex interactions in WDM LANs resulting from the interplay of optical amplification, ORL, and transients due to amplifier gain dynamics and channel equalization in a multiwavelength network; specify a flexible set of OptSim simulation options and corresponding software configurations that allow the simulation technique to be based on either wavelength-domain simulation (WDS), full waveform (time-domain) simulation, or a combination of WDS and waveform simulation; specify requirements and software modules for a WDM LAN planning tool based on RSoft"s MetroWAND network planning tool; and specify key experiments to validate the modeling techniques during the Phase II effort.