Automated Network Device Configuration Through Protocol Domains
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication networks require manual configuration of devices with specific protocols and parameters, which is time-consuming and often results in suboptimal choices due to the lack of automated methods.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for automated configuration of devices in a communication network by logically grouping devices into configuration domains and assigning configuration tags, allowing for the automated determination and application of individual configuration parameters based on device properties and communication connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual configuration of devices is performed, then configuration accuracy can be ensured, but time consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-configuration by automatically determining device properties, identifying communication connections, and assigning configuration parameters without requiring manual intervention. The configuration server autonomously discovers devices, determines their roles, and applies appropriate configuration settings, enabling the network to configure itself automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-defines configuration templates and parameter sets for different device roles and communication connections. By preparing configuration data in advance and storing it in the configuration server, the actual configuration process can quickly retrieve and apply pre-prepared settings, significantly reducing on-site configuration time while maintaining accuracy.
2Loss of time
If automated configuration methods are introduced, then time consumption is reduced, but configuration accuracy may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration server continuously monitors device properties, communication connections, and configuration status. It compares actual device states with expected states based on configuration templates, and automatically adjusts configurations to maintain accuracy. The system provides feedback loops that verify configuration correctness and enable corrective actions if deviations are detected.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration system is designed to be dynamic and adaptive, automatically adjusting configuration parameters based on real-time device properties and network conditions. The system can dynamically discover new devices, identify changes in communication connections, and reconfigure devices accordingly, maintaining configuration accuracy in changing network environments.
3Manufacturing precision
If configuration parameters are manually determined, then optimal settings can be achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration system divides the network into manageable segments based on device roles and communication connection types. Configuration templates are created for each segment type, breaking down the complex overall configuration into smaller, standardized units. This segmentation reduces the perceived complexity by presenting users with modular, role-based configuration options rather than requiring mastery of all possible parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration server provides universal configuration capabilities that work across different device types and communication protocols. By creating multi-functional configuration templates that can be applied to various device roles (end devices, routing devices, switching devices) and connection types, the system reduces complexity through standardization while maintaining the ability to achieve optimal settings for each specific scenario.
4Manufacturing precision
If comprehensive device properties are analyzed, then configuration accuracy improves, but computational effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system determines device properties and communication connections locally for each device rather than performing global analysis of the entire network. The configuration server processes devices individually, analyzing only the properties and connections relevant to each specific device's configuration needs. This local quality approach reduces overall computational effort by avoiding redundant global analyses while maintaining configuration accuracy for each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial analysis of device properties by focusing only on the specific properties and communication connections that are relevant to determining the device's configuration role. Rather than analyzing all possible device attributes, the system identifies and processes only the essential properties needed for accurate configuration, reducing computational effort while maintaining sufficient accuracy for practical deployment.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention describes a method for the computer-implemented configuration of devices in a communications network (30) comprising a plurality of devices (31-41) that are networked with one another in a predetermined manner, wherein each device (31-41) is to be configured with individual configuration parameters. The method according to the invention comprises, in step a), determining device properties and communication connections (42) to other devices (31-41) in the communications network (30) for a respective device (31-41). In step b), the device properties and the communication connections (42) are processed in order to determine affiliation with one or more configuration domains (50, 51), which represent a logical grouping of devices (31-41) that use a predetermined communications protocol, and to assign each device (31-41) in the communications network (30) to at least one configuration domain (50, 51).In step c), all configuration domains (50, 51) are instantiated by assigning the devices (31-41) to a respective configuration domain (50, 51). Finally, in step d), the devices (31-41) assigned to a respective configuration domain (50, 51) are automatically configured according to a protocol predetermined for the configuration domain.