Communication Network Master Handover via Virtual MAC Address
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication networks experience interruptions in network services when there is a change of master node, as the configuration of nodes for accessing network services with the IP address of the previous master node becomes invalid, leading to loss of connection.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that involves obtaining a virtual MAC address and a reserved IP address for network services configuration, using a current master node to deceive the DHCP server into assigning a second IP address, and configuring a virtual network interface to maintain service continuity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If nodes are configured with the IP address of the master node for accessing network services, then network services can be accessed when a single master node is stable, but network service access is interrupted when the master node changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a virtual MAC address as an intermediary between the master node's physical MAC address and the DHCP server. This virtual MAC address remains constant regardless of master node changes, allowing nodes to maintain their configuration while the actual master node can change. The virtual MAC address acts as a stable mediator that decouples the service access point from the physical node identity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the master node's identity through a virtual MAC address. Instead of directly using the physical MAC address of the master node, a virtual copy is used for DHCP communications and service access. This copy remains stable even when the physical master node changes, ensuring continuous service access without requiring nodes to reconfigure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the master node is dynamically elected or designated, then the network can adapt to different operational conditions, but the configuration of nodes becomes invalid upon master node change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the master node identity into two parts: a stable virtual MAC address used for service access and DHCP communications, and a dynamic physical MAC address that can change with master node elections. This segmentation allows the configuration to remain valid by maintaining the virtual identifier while allowing the physical node to change.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the master node selection dynamic while keeping the service access point static. The virtual MAC address provides a static interface for service access, while the actual master node can dynamically change through election or designation. This dynamic-static separation allows flexibility in master node selection without invalidating node configurations.
3Reliability
If a fixed configuration is used for the master node, then network services are stable, but the system lacks adaptability when master node changes occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the master node identity that remains stable for service access while allowing the physical master node to change. The virtual MAC address serves as this stable copy, maintaining configuration validity while enabling master node transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual MAC address acts as an intermediary that provides stable service access while decoupling from the physical master node identity. This allows the system to maintain fixed configuration stability for service access while adapting to master node changes through the intermediary layer.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for configuring a communication network including a gateway adapted for connecting the communication network to a wide area communication network and connected to a plurality of nodes implementing an access point functionality is described. The nodes are coordinated in a centralised manner by a current master node selected from the plurality of nodes. The current master node obtains a virtual MAC address and an IP address associated with the virtual MAC address, the IP address being reserved for configuring network services. It next configures a virtual network interface from the IP address associated with the virtual MAC address.