Carrier-Tagged Packet Flows for Access Network Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional access networks face inefficiencies due to the use of TDM connections, which require manual provisioning, are costly, and lack scalability, especially when handling diverse traffic flows and bursty data communications, leading to high operational expenses and complexity.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of packetized transport using carrier-tagged flows, which allows for automated and remote management of communications paths through the association of tag values with traffic, eliminating the need for manual cable patching and complex equipment configurations, and enabling efficient handling of various protocols without requiring traditional bridges or routers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If TDM connections are used in traditional access networks, then connectivity is established, but manual provisioning and complex equipment configurations are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanual provisioningVSAvoidautomated management

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical provisioning (physical cable patching, manual equipment configuration) with automated packetized transport using carrier-tagged flows. Network elements automatically manage communications paths by processing packet headers with carrier tags, eliminating the need for manual TDM connection setup and complex equipment configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service through automated packet switching where network elements independently manage traffic routing based on carrier tags in packet headers. The packetized transport system automatically establishes and manages communications paths without requiring manual intervention for provisioning or reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If TDM connections are used, then connectivity is provided, but high operational expenses and complexity occur

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveconnectivityVSAvoidoperational complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex TDM-based mechanical switching systems with simplified packetized transport. Instead of managing physical TDM connections and complex equipment configurations, the system uses packet headers with carrier tags to automatically direct traffic, significantly reducing operational complexity while maintaining connectivity reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional access networks are used, then service is provided, but scalability is limited when handling diverse traffic flows

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandling diverse traffic flowsVSAvoidscalability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universality through packetized transport that can handle multiple traffic types (voice, data, video) and diverse protocols simultaneously using a common packet switching infrastructure. Carrier-tagged flows enable the network to universally manage different service types without requiring separate dedicated infrastructure for each protocol or traffic type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces dynamics by enabling flexible, on-demand allocation of network resources through packet switching. Instead of static TDM time slots, the packetized system dynamically adjusts traffic routing and resource allocation based on real-time carrier tag information, allowing the network to adapt to changing traffic patterns and scale efficiently.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Extent of automation

If packetized transport with carrier-tagged flows is implemented, then automated management is achieved, but new encapsulation structures are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated managementVSAvoidencapsulation structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies nesting by encapsulating customer traffic frames within a standardized carrier-tagged flow structure. The carrier tags are nested within the packet header, allowing automated network elements to process multiple levels of encapsulation without increasing operational complexity. This nested structure enables automation while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS7821929B2System and method for controlling communication flow rates

Publication Date: 2010.10.26 VERIZON PATENT & LICENSING INC

AI summary

A system and method are provided for providing access communications between customer locations and a core network service edge. Access flows are handled as carrier-tagged flows through a packet switched network comprising network elements that interpret and manipulate carrier tag values associated with traffic-bearing data frames. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, a discard eligibility indication may be provided with the data frames.