FlexE Group Reconfiguration for Continuous Service Flow Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing FlexE group configurations require service suspension for modifications, leading to interruptions in service transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for dynamically adjusting FlexE groups by sending and receiving FlexE overhead frames with adjustment identification and PHY information, allowing network devices to add, delete, or replace PHYs without suspending services, using a handshake mechanism to ensure seamless transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If FlexE group is statically configured, then configuration stability is ensured, but flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configuration of FlexE groups by allowing runtime addition, deletion, and replacement of PHYs in a FlexE group without service suspension. The system transitions from static configuration to dynamic adjustment through controlled reconfiguration procedures that maintain service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary actions by establishing a preparation phase before actual reconfiguration. The system prepares necessary parameters and validates configurations in advance, then executes changes in a controlled manner to ensure service continuity during the transition.
2Adaptability or versatility
If FlexE group is reconfigured dynamically, then configuration flexibility is improved, but service interruption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by maintaining service transmission during the reconfiguration process. The system allows ongoing service flows to continue uninterrupted while the FlexE group configuration is modified, eliminating service suspension and ensuring continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary mechanisms that facilitate smooth transitions during reconfiguration. The system uses intermediate states and transition protocols to bridge the gap between old and new configurations, ensuring seamless switching without service disruption.
3Quantity of substance
If PHY is added to FlexE group, then bandwidth capacity is increased, but configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the system automatically manages PHY addition, including resource allocation, configuration generation, and validation. The reconfiguration process is automated and requires minimal manual intervention, reducing operational complexity while enabling flexible PHY quantity adjustment.
Data Source
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AI summary
This application provides a method and an apparatus for transmitting a service flow based on flexible Ethernet FlexE. The flexible Ethernet includes a first network device and a second network device, and the first network device and the second network device transmit the service flow by using a first FlexE group. The method includes: sending, by the first network device, a first FlexE overhead frame to the second network device, where the first FlexE overhead frame includes FlexE group adjustment identification information and PHY information of a physical layer PHY included in a second FlexE group; receiving, by the first network device, a second FlexE overhead frame sent by the second network device, where the second FlexE overhead frame includes FlexE group adjustment acknowledgment identification information; adjusting, by the first network device, the first FlexE group to the second FlexE group; and sending, by the first network device, the service flow to the second network device based on the second FlexE group, to dynamically adjust a FlexE group.