FlexE Node Automatic Calendar Configuration via Peer Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
In FlexE implementations, configuring nodes independently for calendar usage can be cumbersome and require significant processing, especially when nodes need to communicate over multiple physical layer connections, as operators must manually configure each end of the FlexE group independently.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for configuring a FlexE node that receives data with overhead identifying time slot assignments from a second node, allowing it to automatically assign time slots for transmitting data back based on the received configuration, reducing the need for manual configuration and processing by synchronizing with the second node's calendar configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If nodes are configured independently for calendar usage, then each node can operate autonomously, but the configuration process becomes cumbersome and requires significant manual processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling a FlexE node to automatically configure its transmission calendar by receiving and processing calendar configuration information from its peer node. Instead of requiring manual independent configuration of both nodes, one node's configuration automatically configures the other, eliminating redundant manual operations and reducing configuration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional configuration approach by having nodes receive configuration information from their peer rather than configuring themselves independently. The configuration flow is reversed: instead of each node generating its own calendar, nodes exchange and adopt each other's calendar configurations, simplifying the overall configuration process.
2Productivity
If manual configuration is performed for each end of the FlexE group, then configuration flexibility is maintained, but time consumption and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having one node prepare and transmit its calendar configuration information to its peer node in advance. This pre-configured information is then automatically processed and applied by the receiving node, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual configuration operations at both ends and significantly reducing overall configuration time.
3Reliability
If independent configuration is used, then node autonomy is preserved, but reconfiguration during failures becomes slower and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where nodes continuously monitor and exchange calendar configuration information. When a failure occurs, nodes can quickly detect the issue and automatically reconfigure by exchanging updated calendar information, enabling rapid failure recovery without complex manual intervention while maintaining system reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments are disclosed for processing Flex Ethernet (FlexE) communications. Embodiments include a method of configuring a first FlexE node includes the first FlexE node configuring sending of second data, by the first FlexE node to a second FlexE node, using configuration specified in first data received by the first FlexE node. Other embodiments include apparatus arranged for configuring FlexE nodes, FlexE nodes comprising such apparatus, and computer-readable media.