Upgradeability and predictability analysis for mesh topologies in optical distribution networks

The new tendencies for network planning methods are evolving to more mechanized and automated systems that can determine the best way to deploy networks. In the case of fiber optic networks, aspects such as the length of the physical links are critical due to the high cost and high availability requirements of this kind of networks. Regarding the planning of optical networks, FTTH methods are reasonably advanced, but in the case of core or distribution networks there is still room for many improvements. In this paper, two mesh topologies have been studied in order to be deployed as optical networks, Honeycomb and Grid. In order to contribute to the improvement of distribution network design, the benefits of a preventive planning (upgradeability properties) are depicted along the document. In addition, to simplify the process of topology decision, approximations are defined to avoid some costly parameters calculations. For the validity of the results it is important to mention that Genetic algorithms are used in order to decide the interconnection of the networks under study.