Keynote Speech II
New Optical Path Design Trend on the IOWN Global Forum Open All-Photonics Network: Background, Application, and Key Enablers
Hideki Nishizawa
NTT Network Innovation Laboratories
Abstract
The evolution of network infrastructure is entering a transformative phase, driven by the demand for ultra-low latency, massive bandwidth, and sustainable scalability. The IOWN Global Forum’s Open All-Photonics Network (Open APN) introduces a disruptive architectural shift through end-to-end photonics-based transmission. This presentation explores emerging trends in optical path design within the Open APN framework, emphasizing the transition from traditional electrical routing to optical switching. This shift enables a new paradigm of intelligent, high-performance networking tailored for the AI era. We begin by providing a technical overview of the Open APN, focusing on the miniaturization and power efficiency of transponders enabled by digital coherent technology, as well as the standardization of their control interfaces. Next, we present practical use cases and the value proposition of advanced optical path design. Finally, we identify key technological enablers underpinning these innovations—including physical modeling of transceivers and line systems, digital longitudinal monitoring, and integration with digital twin-based control systems. This session aims to offer insights into how these design trends will shape the next generation of optical networks and the broader digital ecosystem.
Biography
Dr. Hideki Nishizawa is a senior research engineer at NTT Corporation Network Innovation Laboratories, Japan. He received B.E. and M.E. degrees in physics from Chiba University, Chiba, Japan, in 1994 and 1996, respectively. In 1996, he joined NTT Laboratories, Japan, where he has been engaged in research on open and disaggregated optical systems. He also takes on the role of IOWN Open APN task force coordinator and TIP Open Optical & Packet Transport Disaggregated Optical Systems group co-leader. This year he received PhD in engineering for automatic optical wavelength path provisioning and control technology for data center exchange services from Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.