Universal Element Manager Cartridge Framework
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network element management systems face challenges with thick clients requiring separate software for each device type and version, leading to complexity in management and increased likelihood of errors, while thin clients overload network resources and introduce latency.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that encapsulates network element-specific presentation and messaging functionality into a 'cartridge' within a generic framework, allowing a single client to manage multiple device types and versions without requiring separate clients, thus simplifying software distribution and reducing administrative burdens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a thick client approach is used with separate Element Managers for each device type and version, then device-specific management functionality is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need to manage multiple separate clients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal Element Manager that can manage multiple device types and versions through a single interface. The system uses a device type identification mechanism that automatically determines the appropriate management approach based on the connected device, eliminating the need for separate Element Managers for each device type while maintaining device-specific functionality through a unified client application.
2Ease of operation
If a unified thick client is created to support all device types and versions, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to the need for frequent software releases and coordination between multiple projects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic Element Manager that can adapt its behavior based on the detected device type and version. The system includes a device type identification mechanism that dynamically selects the appropriate management interface and parameters, allowing the unified client to handle diverse devices without requiring frequent software releases. The system dynamically adjusts to new device types through automatic identification and configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a thin client approach is used with generic front end and embedded knowledge on network elements, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity worsens due to increased burden on network element resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the management functionality by separating device-type-specific knowledge from the generic client interface. The system divides the Element Manager into a universal front end and device-specific configuration modules that are loaded based on the connected device type. This segmentation allows the thin client to maintain adaptability while reducing the resource burden on network elements by only loading necessary device-specific components.
4Ease of operation
If thin client approach is used with embedded element-specific knowledge on network elements, then ease of operation is improved, but speed deteriorates due to increased client to network element messaging traffic and latency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring device-type-specific management parameters and interfaces in the Element Manager before connecting to the network element. The system performs device type identification and loads appropriate configuration modules in advance, reducing the need for extensive back-and-forth messaging during operation. This preliminary preparation enhances user interface responsiveness by minimizing real-time communication overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for managing network elements in a communication network. The system includes a storage unit for storing one or more cartridges, where the one or more cartridges contain network element-specific information. The storage unit also contains a generic framework for managing the one or more network elements via use of the one or more cartridges. Finally, the storage unit includes a processor for using the one or more cartridges and the generic framework to manage the one or more network elements.