Ethernet Ring Protection Link Decision Based on Bandwidth Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication using Ethernet Ring Protection (ERP), the physical bandwidth of links changes due to external environments, leading to reduced transmission rates when the bandwidth degrades, and existing methods fail to effectively utilize available bandwidth by forcibly switching paths without considering remaining capacity.
Innovation Solution
A monitoring apparatus with an RPL deciding unit that adapts the Ring Protection Link settings based on changes in communication path bandwidth, deciding whether to switch paths based on whether the transmission rate will be reduced, and optimizing link settings to minimize bandwidth loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If communication path switching is performed only when link is down (traditional ERP method), then system stability is maintained, but transmission rate decreases when physical bandwidth degrades due to external environment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the decision parameter for path switching from binary link status (up/down) to continuous bandwidth quality metrics. The monitoring apparatus measures actual bandwidth values and compares them against thresholds, enabling dynamic path selection based on degraded bandwidth conditions rather than waiting for complete link failure. This resolves the contradiction by allowing path switching to maintain transmission rate while preserving system stability through controlled, threshold-based decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a feedback mechanism where the monitoring apparatus continuously monitors bandwidth quality of communication paths and provides feedback to the path selection logic. This closed-loop system adjusts path selection based on real-time bandwidth measurements, enabling the network to respond to degradation and switch paths before transmission rate is significantly impacted, thus maintaining both stability and productivity.
2Reliability
If path is forcibly switched when bandwidth difference exceeds threshold (Patent Literature 1 method), then communication failure is detected, but available bandwidth in degraded link cannot be utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies partial action by switching paths only when necessary rather than forcing switches at fixed thresholds. The monitoring apparatus evaluates actual bandwidth values and switches paths selectively based on whether the degraded link can still meet communication requirements. This allows utilization of available bandwidth in degraded links while detecting communication failures, resolving the contradiction between reliability and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes from fixed threshold switching to dynamic parameter-based decision making. Instead of switching when bandwidth difference exceeds a predetermined threshold, the system monitors actual bandwidth values and makes switching decisions based on whether the degraded bandwidth is sufficient for communication needs. This enables flexible utilization of available bandwidth while maintaining reliable communication failure detection.
3Device complexity
If RPL is set based on static link status, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to changing bandwidth conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements self-service by automating the RPL setting process through a monitoring apparatus that automatically detects bandwidth changes and determines appropriate path switching actions. This eliminates the need for manual RPL configuration while providing dynamic adaptation to changing conditions. The system serves itself by continuously monitoring and automatically adjusting path selection, resolving the contradiction between reduced complexity and improved adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamics to the RPL setting process by making it adaptive to changing bandwidth conditions. The monitoring apparatus continuously monitors bandwidth quality and dynamically adjusts path selection based on current conditions rather than relying on static configurations. This dynamic approach maintains simplicity through automation while providing flexibility to respond to environmental changes.
Data Source
AI summary
A monitoring apparatus (200) according to the present invention sets an RPL (Ring Protection Link) to each network apparatus constituting a communication network by ERP (Ethernet Ring Protection). The monitoring apparatus (200) includes an RPL deciding unit (201) for deciding an RPL based on a change in a bandwidth of a communication path. Thus, it is possible to provide a monitoring apparatus that can effectively use changing bandwidths.