Distributed Network Planning for Multi-Domain Coordination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current network planning systems for multi-domain environments are labor-intensive, prone to errors, and inefficient due to the need for manual operation across multiple vendor systems, with proprietary interfaces limiting data visibility and scalability.

Innovation Solution

A distributed network planning system that synchronizes planning functions across multiple domains using a distributed control plane, integrating network planning systems with a signaling communication network to share topology data and perform reservations, reducing operational complexity and costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple planning systems are used in multi-domain environments, then network coverage and functionality are improved, but operational complexity and time required for planning increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork coverageVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple planning systems into a unified distributed planning architecture where each domain has its own planning system but they are interconnected through a common database and synchronization mechanism. This allows multi-domain coverage while reducing operational complexity through automated data sharing and coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the planning system into distributed instances across multiple domains, each maintaining local autonomy while participating in global coordination. This segmentation enables scalable network coverage without requiring a single monolithic system, reducing operational complexity through localized control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If manual data transfer and evaluation across multiple systems is performed, then data accuracy can be verified, but time consumption and labor requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata accuracyVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automated feedback mechanisms where planning systems continuously synchronize their databases through defined interfaces. Data accuracy is maintained through validation protocols and consistency checks, while time consumption is reduced by eliminating manual data transfer and automated coordination between systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables planning systems to self-synchronize their own data through automated database updates and coordination protocols. Each system maintains its own data accuracy while automatically sharing with other domains, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing overall time consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If proprietary interfaces are used in each vendor system, then system compatibility and vendor specificity are improved, but data visibility and interoperability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem compatibilityVSAvoiddata visibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces standardized intermediate interfaces and a common database layer that act as mediators between proprietary vendor systems. These intermediaries translate between different vendor-specific formats while maintaining data visibility and interoperability across domains, allowing each system to retain its proprietary characteristics while communicating effectively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universal standardized interfaces that serve multiple vendor systems simultaneously. These universal interfaces enable data exchange between different proprietary systems while maintaining compatibility with each vendor's specific requirements, thereby improving both system compatibility and data visibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Ease of operation

If a centralized super planning system is built, then coordination across domains is improved, but system complexity and resource requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecoordinationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the planning function into distributed domain-level systems rather than a single centralized system. Each domain maintains its own planning capabilities while coordinating through standardized interfaces and a shared database, reducing overall system complexity and resource requirements compared to a monolithic centralized approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from vertical centralization to horizontal distribution across multiple domains. Instead of one large centralized system, the architecture uses multiple smaller systems operating at the same level (peer-to-peer), reducing system complexity while maintaining coordination through distributed collaboration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS9491086B2Distributed network planning systems and methods
Publication Date: 2016.11.08 CIENA CORP
  • US9491086B2 patent drawing
  • US9491086B2 patent drawing
  • US9491086B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides distributed domain network planning systems and methods. The network planning systems and methods include a distributed domain network planning system that adapts planning concepts to networks operated by modern distributed control planes, such as ASON/ASTN, GMPLS, etc. The network planning systems and methods operate on a multi-domain network utilizing a control plane and local planning systems associated with each individual domain in the multi-domain network. The network planning systems and methods also operate on a single domain network utilizing a control plane and local planning systems associated with the single domain network. The network planning systems and methods build on a distributed control plane philosophy that the network is the database of record. There is significant operational value to distributing the planning function of a large network using the systems and methods disclosed herein.