摘要 |
<p>An integrated assembly (100, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800) for switching optical signals. The integrated assembly might be a rack assembly in which shelf assemblies (110, 20, 130, 300, 410, 420, 510-530, 610-640, 710-750, 810-860) are connected. Each of the subassemblies (110, 120, 130, 300, 410, 420, 510-530, 610-640, 710-750, 810-860) includes optical interfaces (111, 121) configured to support communication of optical channels (101, 102, 202) to and from the integrated assembly (100, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800) using the corresponding subassembly. Each subassembly might also include multiple switch fabric assemblies (112, 122) each including a switching mechanism (113, 123). An inter-subassembly communication interface (115, 125) is provided between each subassembly. An optical signal may be switched from one of the subassemblies (e.g., one of the shelves) to another even though there is no intervening switching circuitry in between the different subassemblies. Instead, the switching operation is distributed between the subassemblies.</p> |