IPv6 Interface Identifier Segmentation for Address Redundancy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for generating IPv6 interface identifiers (IIDs) in low power devices, such as those using NFC and MS/TP networks, are inefficient as they simply utilize link layer addresses, leading to limited management of local network addresses and potential address redundancy.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced to define and assign first and second IIDs within the IPv6 address based on a node ID, where information about network connecting conditions is encoded in sub-IIDs, using predetermined values and random numbers to prevent redundancy, allowing for effective management of local network addresses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If link layer address is simply utilized to generate IPv6 IID, then device identification is achieved, but local network address management efficiency deteriorates and address redundancy occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIID generation simplicityVSAvoidaddress uniqueness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The 64-bit IID is segmented into multiple fields including global ID field, sub-IID field, and network connecting condition field. This segmentation allows each part to serve a specific function: global ID for device identification, sub-IID for network management, and network connecting condition for topology information, thereby preventing address redundancy while maintaining generation efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different parts of the IID are assigned different qualities/functions. The global ID portion maintains simplicity for device identification, while the sub-IID portion provides detailed network management information. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by making each segment optimized for its specific purpose

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Ease of manufacture

If link layer address is simply utilized to generate IPv6 IID, then device identification is achieved, but local network management capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIID generation simplicityVSAvoidnetwork management capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The IID structure is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: device identification (global ID field), network management (sub-IID field), and network topology representation (network connecting condition field). This multi-functionality enables both simple generation from link layer address and comprehensive network management capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention adds dimensional information to the traditional IID by incorporating sub-IID fields and network connecting condition fields. These additional dimensions provide network management capabilities without compromising the base device identification function, allowing the IID to operate effectively in both simple and complex network scenarios

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If IID area is extended to include network management information, then address management efficiency is improved, but address structure complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaddress management efficiencyVSAvoidaddress structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The IID is divided into clearly defined segments (global ID field, sub-IID field, network connecting condition field) with specific bit allocations. This segmentation provides structure and organization to the extended IID, making it manageable despite the increased information capacity. Each segment has a defined purpose, reducing the perceived complexity through systematic organization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10104038B2Method of defining interface identifier (IID) of IPv6 address and a communication device operating the same
Publication Date: 2018.10.16 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US10104038B2 patent drawing
  • US10104038B2 patent drawing
  • US10104038B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a method of defining an interface identifier (IID) of an Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) address and devices operating the same, wherein the method includes defining a first IID and a second IID in an IID based on a predetermined value at a predetermined location in the IID of an IPv6 address, assigning, based on an node identification (ID), a first node ID to the first IID and a second node ID to the second IID; and assigning information on a network connecting condition of a communication device to at least one of a first sub-IID corresponding to an area excluding the first node ID in the first IID and a second sub-IID corresponding to an area excluding the second node ID in the second IID.