Aggregated Node Topology Map for Network Readability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network topology display methods face challenges in presenting complex network structures due to increasing numbers of nodes and links, leading to cluttered and difficult-to-read maps, which can result in errors when identifying specific elements or failures.
Innovation Solution
A computer-generated graphical user interface that allows for the representation of aggregated nodes, enabling users to selectively display individual devices within a network topology map, thereby reducing clutter and improving readability by presenting expanded views and summary information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the network grows and new network elements are added, then the network capacity and functionality are improved, but the number of nodes and links increases creating cluttered topology maps that are difficult to read
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the network topology map into multiple hierarchical levels or views. Instead of displaying all nodes and links simultaneously in a single flat view, the system segments the network into logical groups, sub-networks, or hierarchical levels, allowing users to navigate through different segments to maintain readability while accommodating network growth.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an additional dimension to the topology map display by implementing multi-level hierarchical views or drill-down capabilities. This transforms the traditional two-dimensional flat map into a multi-dimensional navigation structure where users can explore different levels of network detail, effectively managing complexity without sacrificing readability.
2Quantity of substance
If nodes are depicted in smaller sizes and links are shown more densely to accommodate new elements, then more network elements can be displayed, but the connections and routes between nodes become difficult to read
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the topology map display adaptive and interactive rather than static. Users can dynamically adjust the level of detail, zoom into specific regions, or switch between different view modes to examine connections clearly without reducing the overall capacity to display numerous network elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements such as collapsible groups, summary nodes, or intermediate aggregation points that represent multiple nodes or connections. These intermediaries allow the system to display more network elements while maintaining connection clarity by providing structured ways to navigate through dense topology without displaying every individual connection at full detail simultaneously.
3Quantity of substance
If less space is allocated for identifiers of nodes and links, then more network elements can be accommodated, but errors occur when trying to identify specific elements with failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nested doll principle by implementing hierarchical node structures where aggregated nodes contain or represent multiple individual nodes. Users can navigate from higher-level aggregated views to detailed individual node views, effectively displaying more network elements while ensuring identification accuracy through progressive disclosure of details at appropriate hierarchical levels.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed for presenting, in a computer-generated graphical user interface, a network topology map of a plurality of nodes and data links. The plurality of nodes includes at least one aggregated node that represents multiple devices of a data communication network. Each of the data links represents a physical connection between devices represented by nodes. Detecting a selection of a first aggregated node and in response to detecting the selection, causing presentation of an expanded view comprising a list of the multiple devices of the first aggregated node. Detecting a selection of a first device of the multiple devices and presenting an updated network topology map comprising the plurality of nodes including the first aggregated node, the plurality of data links, and a first device node that represents the first device. The first aggregated node representing remaining devices of the two or more devices other than the first device.