Centralized EVC Provisioning for Access Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The process of provisioning nodes in an Ethernet network to implement Ethernet Virtual Circuits (EVCs) is burdensome and time-consuming, requiring manual configuration of access modules with EVC attribute data.
Innovation Solution
A system where access modules automatically retrieve EVC attribute data from a central location, using an EVC map and EVC shadow to forward data packets based on S-tags, reducing the need for manual provisioning and enabling scalable architecture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual provisioning of EVC attribute data is performed at each access module, then configuration accuracy can be ensured, but the provisioning process becomes burdensome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A central controller is introduced as an intermediary between the network administrator and access modules. The central controller stores EVC attribute data centrally and automatically distributes it to appropriate access modules, eliminating manual configuration at each module while ensuring accurate provisioning through centralized control
Solution Approach 2:
Access modules are equipped with logic that enables them to automatically retrieve and provision EVC attribute data from the central controller based on received data packets. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual configuration at each access module while maintaining configuration accuracy through automated validation
2Ease of manufacture
If manual configuration of access modules is performed, then provisioning control can be maintained, but the process becomes complex and difficult to scale
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple access modules are merged into a unified provisioning system managed by a single central controller. The central controller consolidates the provisioning function for all access modules, simplifying the overall process while maintaining control through centralized management and automatic distribution of EVC attribute data
3Productivity
If automated retrieval of EVC attribute data is implemented, then provisioning efficiency is improved, but system architecture complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The central controller is designed with multi-functionality, serving as a centralized storage repository, automatic distribution system, and provisioning management entity. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into a single component, improving provisioning efficiency while minimizing the addition of separate system components that would increase overall complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A system for provisioning virtual circuit information in packet has a plurality of access modules that are inserted into slots of a chassis at a network facility. Each access module is provisioned with sets of Ethernet virtual circuit (EVC) attribute data in order to provide the access module with sufficient information to handle data packets carried by EVCs serviced by the access module. Rather than manually provisioning each access module with EVC attribute data, the sets of attribute data are stored at a central location. Each access module has logic that is configured to automatically retrieve, from the central location, sets of attribute data associated with the EVCs to be serviced by the access module. The logic then automatically provisions the access module to handle data packets carried by such EVCs.