Inter-Domain TSN Stream Configuration with Centralized Control

The patent introduces domain boundary entities (DBEs) as intermediary components that mediate between multiple TSN domains. Each DBE is positioned at the boundary of a TSN domain and maintains configuration state for streams crossing domain boundaries. The DBE receives configuration requests from centralized user controllers, performs path computation across domains, and coordinates with other DBEs to establish end-to-end TSN streams while preserving the centralized configuration model within each domain.

The patent segments the inter-domain configuration function by introducing domain boundary entities at specific points in the network architecture. Rather than requiring full distributed configuration across all domains or a single global controller, the configuration functionality is segmented and distributed to boundary entities that only manage streams crossing their respective domain boundaries. This segmentation allows each domain to maintain its own centralized configuration model while enabling inter-domain connectivity.

Domain boundary entities serve as intermediaries that absorb the complexity of inter-domain path computation and coordination. Endpoint devices only need to communicate with their local centralized user controller using standard intra-domain protocols. The DBE handles the complex signaling and coordination with other domains, shielding endpoint devices from inter-domain protocol complexity while enabling multi-domain stream establishment.

The system enables self-service configuration by allowing centralized user controllers within each domain to independently manage their own domains using the same configuration mechanisms as for intra-domain streams. The domain boundary entities automatically coordinate with each other to establish end-to-end paths across domains without requiring endpoint devices to participate in complex inter-domain signaling or computations.

Domain boundary entities act as intermediaries that enable centralized user controllers to efficiently manage their respective domains while facilitating TSN stream configuration across domain boundaries. The DBE maintains configuration state for inter-domain streams and coordinates path establishment, allowing network operators to leverage the management benefits of domain segmentation while achieving end-to-end TSN stream connectivity across multiple domains.

The domain boundary entity serves multiple functions: it acts as a configuration anchor point for inter-domain streams, performs path computation across domains, coordinates with other DBEs, and maintains configuration state. This multi-functional design allows the same entity to support both intra-domain centralized configuration and inter-domain stream establishment, providing universal functionality across different operational contexts.