Spectral-spatial concept of hierarchical and elastic optical networking

Next-generation dynamic and elastic optical networking can be enriched by the employment of several techniques that have been introduced recently. In this paper we consider the elastic networking potential of optical orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), spatial multiple input multiple output (MIMO), and multidimensional coded modulation. Specifically, these three advanced approaches are re-defined in the context of dynamic bandwidth routing and flexible lightpath assignment for future optical networks. Key aspects of the novel spectral-spatial networking concept are presented.