Converged IP Media Network Architecture for Unified Traffic Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing multiple isolated IP networks in media facilities is challenging due to the lack of comprehensive visibility and separate management, making it difficult for network architects to oversee the entire network structure effectively.
Innovation Solution
A converged network architecture that connects all hardware physically while logically managing IP traffic across different networks, allowing a broadcast controller to manage and control traffic flows, transcoding, and providing security and maintenance operations across all networks as a single cohesive fabric.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple isolated IP networks are deployed to handle different types of media traffic, then network service specialization and reliability are improved, but network management complexity and loss of comprehensive visibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network management functions by introducing a dedicated controller that separates control plane operations from data plane forwarding. The controller manages IP traffic flows, bandwidth allocation, and security policies across multiple IP networks, while network devices focus on efficient packet forwarding. This segmentation allows specialized networks to maintain their isolation and reliability while centralized management provides comprehensive visibility and reduces operational complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If air gaps are used to isolate media networks from external connectivity, then network security is improved, but network functionality and adaptability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary that enables secure communication and management between isolated IP networks and external systems. The controller acts as a trusted mediator that enforces security policies, manages traffic flows, and coordinates interactions between networks without requiring direct connectivity. This allows networks to maintain their air-gapped isolation for security while still achieving coordinated functionality through the intermediary controller.
3Reliability
If separate networks are deployed for different media traffic types, then traffic isolation and reliability are improved, but ease of operation and unified management worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal controller that performs multiple management functions across different IP networks including traffic flow management, bandwidth allocation, security policy enforcement, and monitoring. This single multi-functional controller provides unified management for all networks, allowing operators to manage isolated networks through a common interface while maintaining their traffic isolation and reliability characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments provide systems and techniques for a network architecture design for a converged media facility. An example system includes a plurality of internet protocol (IP) networks, where each IP network is configured to provide a different service for the media facility. At least one of the IP networks is a production media network configured to route multicast media traffic. The system also includes a plurality of first network devices coupled to the plurality of IP networks and a controller configured to manage at least one IP traffic flow within at least one of the plurality of IP networks.