Federated Network Device Sub-network Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

In federated networks, devices may be excluded from accessing certain functions or data due to authorization issues, leading to unwanted access by authorized devices and exclusion of unauthorized devices, resulting in inefficient network management.

Innovation Solution

A method for managing devices in a federated network that allows for the creation of sub-networks within the network, where devices can perform specific functions and share data, while excluding other devices from these sub-networks based on their capabilities and authorization, enabling selective access and control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a device has authorization to participate in the federation, then the device can access any data being exchanged, but this results in unwanted access to information which the user should not have

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice access flexibilityVSAvoidunwanted information exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the federated network into multiple sub-networks, each with its own authorization rules and data scope. Devices can be authorized for specific sub-networks rather than having blanket access to all data, thus resolving the contradiction between flexible access and preventing unwanted exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements local quality by allowing different authorization levels and data access permissions for different devices within the federation. Each device can have tailored access rights specific to its function and user needs, enabling versatile access while preventing unauthorized information exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If certain functions or processes be accessible to certain devices in the federation but not others, then selective access is desired, but devices without authorization are excluded even though they have the capabilities

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveselective function accessVSAvoidnetwork utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the network into sub-networks based on functions and data types, allowing devices to join specific sub-networks where they have authorization. This enables selective access to functions while maintaining high overall network utilization by keeping authorized devices engaged in appropriate sub-networks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic device assignment to sub-networks based on authorization status and functional capabilities. Devices can dynamically join or leave sub-networks as their authorization and capabilities change, optimizing both selective access control and network utilization efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS7603385B2Device constellation management
Publication Date: 2009.10.13 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC
  • US7603385B2 patent drawing
  • US7603385B2 patent drawing
  • US7603385B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus is provided for managing a plurality of devices in a federated network and a sub-network within the federated network. The devices in the sub-network may have a functional capability of performing a function associated with the federated network. For example, the federated network may include devices for providing data content such as media content and the sub-network may include devices for controlling the presentation of the data content. In addition, a constellation of devices is provided that may share data content such as media data. At least some of the devices in the constellation may form a sub-network.