Generic OAM Function Across Network Protocols

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing network operations and maintenance (OAM) systems face challenges in communicating and executing OAM functions across different communication protocols and logical layers, requiring separate functions for each protocol and layer, which complicates troubleshooting and management.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of generic OAM (GOAM) functions using a generic packet data unit (GPDU) that can be processed across multiple logical layers and communication protocols, with a header indication allowing for multi-layer and intra-layer OAM functionality, enabling a unified approach to OAM operations regardless of the underlying protocol or layer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate OAM functions are implemented for each communication protocol and logical layer, then protocol-specific OAM functionality is achieved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprotocol-specific OAM functionalityVSAvoidcomplexity of OAM implementation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal OAM framework that can operate across multiple communication protocols (Ethernet, IP, MPLS, Ethernet VPN) and logical layers (Layer 1-4) using a single standardized mechanism. The GOAM function encapsulates OAM operations in a protocol-agnostic manner, allowing the same OAM implementation to serve diverse network technologies without requiring separate specialized functions for each protocol.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary OAM mechanism that mediates between different communication protocols and logical layers. This intermediary layer translates and standardizes OAM operations, enabling interaction between heterogeneous network elements without requiring direct protocol-specific implementations at each interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If separate OAM functions are implemented for each communication protocol and logical layer, then protocol-specific OAM functionality is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprotocol-specific OAM functionalityVSAvoidease of troubleshooting

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal OAM framework that can operate across multiple communication protocols (Ethernet, IP, MPLS, Ethernet VPN) and logical layers (Layer 1-4) using a single standardized mechanism. The GOAM function encapsulates OAM operations in a protocol-agnostic manner, allowing the same OAM implementation to serve diverse network technologies without requiring separate specialized functions for each protocol.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments OAM operations into distinct functional components (continuity check, connectivity verification, fault localization, performance measurement) that can be independently configured and executed. This segmentation allows operators to selectively invoke specific OAM functions based on troubleshooting needs, simplifying operation while maintaining comprehensive protocol coverage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple protocol-specific OAM implementations are used, then comprehensive network coverage is achieved, but loss of time for troubleshooting increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork protocol coverageVSAvoidtroubleshooting time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal OAM framework that can operate across multiple communication protocols (Ethernet, IP, MPLS, Ethernet VPN) and logical layers (Layer 1-4) using a single standardized mechanism. The GOAM function encapsulates OAM operations in a protocol-agnostic manner, allowing the same OAM implementation to serve diverse network technologies without requiring separate specialized functions for each protocol.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables preliminary configuration of OAM parameters and paths before actual troubleshooting occurs. Network elements can be pre-configured with OAM capabilities and routing information, allowing rapid execution of diagnostic operations without requiring real-time protocol analysis or configuration adjustments during troubleshooting.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10326680B2Generic operations, administration, and maintenance (OAM) function

Publication Date: 2019.06.18 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD

AI summary

A system includes: a processor in electrical communication with a data packet network that includes a first network device having a first network node and a second network device having a second network node. The system also includes a non-transitory memory having stored instructions, when executed by the processor, configured to perform acts including: generating a frame denoting a protocol data unit (PDU) to implement at least one OAM function within the data packet network; encapsulating the PDU in a packet having a header; transmitting the packet from the first network node to the second network node. The PDU is a generic PDU (GPDU) for implementing at least one generic OAM (GOAM) function across the first and second network nodes operating different transmission protocols. The header includes GOAM indication information denoting the presence of the GPDU within the packet.