Bypass Module Controller for Network Device Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network devices lack the ability to selectively switch between connected and bypass states, especially in scenarios where fault conditions are not met by pre-determined criteria, leading to potential network disruptions and troubleshooting challenges, particularly in hard-to-reach or hazardous locations.
Innovation Solution
A network device with a bypass module and a controller that allows for selective switching between connected and bypass states based on external control signals, incorporating both passive and override bypass mechanisms to manage network traffic and provide isolation, enabling manual control of the bypass state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a passive bypass mechanism is used to automatically disconnect failed network devices, then network reliability is improved by preventing disruptions from faulty devices, but the ability to troubleshoot fault conditions deteriorates because the device is physically disconnected from the network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a removable interface module as an intermediary between the network device and the bypass mechanism. This module includes a controller that can receive external control signals and selectively engage or disengage the bypass state. The intermediary allows remote control of the bypass function while maintaining the ability to troubleshoot, as the module can be removed and reattached without full device replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The bypass mechanism transitions from a static, automatically-triggered state to a dynamic, remotely-controllable state. The controller in the interface module can selectively switch between connected and bypass states based on external signals, allowing flexible adjustment of the bypass state rather than being locked into automatic activation only.
2Ease of operation
If a removable interface module with controller is added to enable selective bypass control, then troubleshooting capability and operational flexibility are improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The network device is segmented into modular components, with the interface module being a separate, removable unit that contains the bypass control functionality. This segmentation isolates the complexity into a discrete module that can be independently managed, tested, and replaced without affecting the entire network device.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface module serves multiple functions: it provides the bypass control mechanism, enables remote management, and facilitates troubleshooting capabilities. By consolidating these functions into a single universal module, the overall system complexity is managed more efficiently than having separate components for each function.
3Reliability
If automatic bypass activation is implemented based on pre-determined fault conditions, then network protection is improved by automatically isolating failed devices, but the ability to enforce bypass state for non-fault conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass mechanism transitions from a static, automatically-triggered state to a dynamic, remotely-controllable state. The controller in the interface module can selectively switch between connected and bypass states based on external signals, allowing flexible adjustment of the bypass state rather than being locked into automatic activation only.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the control parameter for bypass activation from internal fault detection thresholds to external control signals. This parameter change allows the bypass state to be enforced under various conditions beyond just pre-determined fault conditions, including maintenance scenarios and non-fault situations.
Data Source
AI summary
A network device operable to receive and forward communications over a network through at least a first network connection and a second network connection. The network device includes a bypass module having a first device network connection and a second device network connection. A controller is operative to receive control signals originating external to the network device, and to selectively switch switching elements of the bypass module between a bypass state and a connected state based on the received control signals. The first network connection and the second network connection in communication with the first device network connection and the second device network connection in the connected state. The first network connection and the second network connection in communication with each other establishing a bypass communication path in the bypass state.