Decomposed Network Layer Virtualization for Scalable Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional broadband access networks face challenges in scalability and maintenance due to the aggregation of multiple network communication layers on a single device, leading to high costs and inefficiencies, particularly when a failure occurs at one layer, requiring replacement of the entire device despite other layers functioning properly.
Innovation Solution
Decomposing aggregate network communication layer functionality allows respective functionalities to be implemented on different devices, with L1, L2, and L3 layers distributed across various devices, enabling easier scaling and reducing maintenance costs by allowing individual layer replacements without affecting other operational layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple network communication layers are aggregated on a single device, then device functionality is consolidated, but device replacement cost and maintenance complexity increase when a layer fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network communication functionality into separate layers (physical layer, data link layer, network layer) and implements each layer on different devices. This segmentation allows individual layer replacement without affecting other layers, reducing replacement costs and maintenance complexity while maintaining consolidated functionality through the distributed architecture.
2Device complexity
If multiple network communication layers are aggregated on a single device, then functionality is integrated, but scalability is reduced due to device replacement requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting network functionality into separate layers implemented on different devices, the system achieves scalability. Each layer can be independently added, modified, or replaced without requiring replacement of the entire device, allowing the network to adapt and scale more effectively while maintaining integrated functionality through the distributed layer architecture.
3Device complexity
If aggregate network communication layer functionality is used, then device functionality is combined, but maintenance efficiency decreases when layer failure occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements segmentation of network communication layers across different devices, enabling maintenance efficiency. When a failure occurs at one layer, only that specific layer needs to be addressed and replaced, rather than the entire device. This segmented approach maintains functionality combination while significantly improving maintenance efficiency and reducing downtime.
Data Source
AI summary
Aggregate functionality associated with multiple network communication layers may be decomposed and respective functionality associated with different network communication layers may be implemented on different devices. One or more aspects of respective functionality associated with a particular network communication layer may be virtualized based on the decomposition of the aggregate functionality. Virtual customer networks may be established for providing network-based services to a subscriber of an access network.