IP Network Resource Allocation Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Managing access resources in IP networks with quality of service (QoS) is a time-consuming and largely manual process, requiring automated methods for allocating and managing resources as customer services change over time.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for managing access resources in IP networks that involves receiving a request for IP network service, selecting suitable routers and ports based on available resources, verifying their capability to perform the requested service, and updating the network configuration system with instructions to activate the service, while accounting for resource allocation and usage throughout the service lifecycle.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual methods are used for managing access resources in IP networks, then resource allocation can be performed, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresource allocation efficiencyVSAvoidtime for managing access resources

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automated self-service resource allocation where the network management system automatically selects routers, verifies resource availability, and configures services without manual intervention. The system autonomously performs service order translation, router selection based on QoS requirements, and network configuration updates.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical processes with automated electronic systems. The network management system uses computer-implemented methods to automatically translate service orders, select appropriate routers, verify resources, and configure network elements, substituting human operators with automated software agents.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If automated resource allocation is implemented, then productivity improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice activation speedVSAvoidcomplexity of resource management system

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The network management system performs multiple functions through a single integrated platform: service order reception, QoS parameter translation, router selection, resource verification, and network configuration. This multi-functional approach consolidates complexity into one universal system rather than distributing it across multiple specialized systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a network management system as an intermediary layer between service orders and network infrastructure. This mediator translates high-level service requirements into specific router configurations, managing complexity by abstracting detailed network management tasks behind a standardized interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual resource management is used, then system complexity is lower, but adaptability to changing customer services deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to manage changing servicesVSAvoidcomplexity of management process

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts to changing customer services by automatically receiving updated service orders, re-evaluating QoS requirements, selecting appropriate routers based on current resource availability, and reconfiguring networks in real-time. This dynamic capability allows the system to respond flexibly to service changes without manual reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The network management system implements feedback loops where service performance and resource availability information are continuously monitored and fed back into the decision-making process. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt resource allocation based on actual network conditions and service requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS7623548B2Methods, systems, and computer program products for managing access resources in an internet protocol network

Publication Date: 2009.11.24 BELLSOUTH INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY CORPORATION(US)

AI summary

Exemplary embodiments relate to methods, systems, and computer program products for managing access resources in an Internet protocol network. Methods include receiving a request for IP network service, the request including a required class of service. A storage device that specifies routers and resources available on the routers is accessed. A router and a port on that router are selected from the specified routers to perform the requested service. The selecting includes verifying that the resources available on the selected router and port can perform the requested service. Instructions are transmitted to a network configuration system to activate the requested service on the selected router and port. The instructions specify a quality of service corresponding to the required class of service. The storage device is updated to reflect the requested service being activated on the selected router and port.