GMPLS+IP/MPLS Node Protocol Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
In networks combining GMPLS and IP/MPLS, existing solutions require replacing all IP/MPLS nodes with GMPLS nodes to match protocols, leading to higher installation costs and operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a GMPLS+IP/MPLS node that can process both GMPLS and IP/MPLS protocols, allowing IP/MPLS nodes to operate without replacement by establishing GMPLS label paths and tunnel transferring packets through these paths, while advertising link state information in a form acceptable to both networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all IP/MPLS nodes are replaced with GMPLS nodes to match protocols, then protocol compatibility is improved, but installation cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protocol conversion function as an intermediary mechanism between GMPLS and IP/MPLS nodes. This conversion function allows IP/MPLS nodes to interact with GMPLS networks without requiring full protocol replacement, thereby maintaining compatibility while reducing the complexity of node replacement across the network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables nodes to perform multiple functions by supporting both GMPLS and IP/MPLS protocols simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows a single node to operate in different protocol modes depending on the network segment, eliminating the need to replace all nodes with GMPLS-specific devices and reducing overall system complexity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If all IP/MPLS nodes are replaced with GMPLS nodes, then network uniformity is improved, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a protocol conversion function as a bridge between GMPLS and IP/MPLS nodes. This intermediary allows existing IP/MPLS nodes to function within GMPLS networks through translation, eliminating the need for complete node replacement and thereby reducing installation costs while maintaining network uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual representation of GMPLS functionality within IP/MPLS nodes through protocol conversion mechanisms. This copying approach allows IP/MPLS nodes to emulate GMPLS behavior without physical replacement, reducing hardware costs while achieving network uniformity in terms of protocol compatibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If GMPLS nodes are integrated into IP/MPLS networks, then network versatility is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protocol conversion function that acts as a mediator between GMPLS and IP/MPLS operational domains. This intermediary handles the complexity of protocol translation and interaction, allowing network operators to manage mixed GMPLS/IP/MPLS networks without facing increased operational complexity in day-to-day management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the network to automatically handle protocol conversion and adaptation between GMPLS and IP/MPLS segments. The protocol conversion function operates autonomously to manage the interaction between different protocol domains, reducing the operational burden on network administrators and simplifying management of mixed network environments.
Data Source
AI summary
A network is realized having GMPLS and IP/MPLS mixed, in which an IP/MPLS node can be operated as is without replacing the IP/MPLS node with a node having a GMPLS function, even if the GMPLS and IP/MPLS are mixed. To match with the protocol of the IP/MPLS node outside of a GMPLS cloud, the GMPLS+IP/MPLS node (edge) establishes a PSC-LSP between GMPLS+IP/MPLS nodes (edge), uses the PSC-LSP as an IP/MPLS link from the viewpoint of the IP/MPLS node, and operates signaling of an MPLS-LSP establishment requested from the IP/MPLS.