Architectural design for multistage 2-D MEMS optical switches

Next-generation wavelength routing optical networks requiring optical cross connects (OXC) in the network have the ability to direct optical signals from any input interface to suitable output interfaces by configuring their internal embedded optical switch matrices. Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) switches are regarded as the most promising technology to achieve such functionality. We consider the construction of a multistage MEMS switch network with single two-dimensional (2-D) MEMS switch blocks. A power loss model is developed that calls on a single MEMS block that is then used to develop the model for a three-stage Clos network. An effective model for maximum loss difference between calls is also developed. Based on these, the paper also proposes three connection patterns [Max + Min greedy (MMG), compressed extended generalized shuffle 1 (C-EGS-1), and compressed extended generalized shuffle 2 (C-EGS-2)] to connect outlet ports and inlet ports between two neighboring stages in a three-stage Clos network. These connection patterns are proved to be optimal and efficient enough to reach the minimums of both the maximum power loss of calls and the maximum loss difference between calls.