A Robust Optimization Approach for Designing FTTx Networks Integrating Free Space Optics under Weather Uncertainty

We address the problem of designing a 3-architecture telecommunication access networks that combines optical fiber-and copper-based access technologies with Free Space Optics (FSO) technology. We propose a mixed integer linear programming model for representing the optimal design problem, which can be traced back to a multi-architecture variant of the well-known Connected Facility Location problem. In order to protect design solutions against reduction in capacity that may occur in FSO connections due to adverse weather conditions, we adopt a robust cutting plane procedure. Preliminary computational tests are reported to show the ability of our robust optimization approach to produce weather-resistant design solutions.