Evolution of dynamic optical networks

In this paper, we show the recent progress of physical layer technologies for the dynamic optical networks. There is much activity in the design of post-Internet or future networks. These are based on new design concepts that look beyond the next generation network (NGN) and the Internet. The future network will maintain the sustainability of our prosperous civilization and help resolve various social issues and problems by the use of information and communication technologies (ICT). In order to realize the future network, many novel technologies in the physical layer are required, in addition to technologies in the network control layer. In the physical layer, it is very important that especially technology to support real dynamic network operation, such as grid free, format free, and burst mode in both time and spectrum domain. An optical packet and circuit integrated network system is demonstrated as an examples of cutting-edge network system including many new physical layer technologies for the dynamic operation. Other related activities of dynamic optical networks will be also shown in the presentation.