Message Coordinator for Distributed Private Network Routing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The transition to IP networks has created a need for new methods to enable distributed private networks, such as the electric power grid, to communicate messages over public IP networks while maintaining security and priority requirements.
Innovation Solution
The system comprises an inter-network interface and a message coordinator that receive packetized messages, assign transport routes, and communicate them over multiple public communication networks, providing priority and security protocols as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If distributed private networks use public IP networks for communication, then network connectivity and adaptability are improved, but security and reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces message coordinators and inter-network interfaces as intermediary components between distributed private networks and public IP networks. These intermediaries establish secure tunnels using protocols like IPsec or SSL, acting as mediators that enable public network connectivity while maintaining security boundaries. The message coordinators manage message routing, authentication, and encryption, ensuring that private network traffic remains protected even when traversing public infrastructure.
2Productivity
If legacy TDM networks are converted to IP infrastructure, then productivity and ease of operation are improved, but complexity of implementation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network transition process into distinct functional components: message generators within private networks, inter-network interfaces for protocol translation, message coordinators for routing and management, and destination networks. This segmentation allows legacy TDM networks to be gradually converted to IP infrastructure without requiring complete system replacement. Each segment can be implemented and tested independently, reducing overall implementation complexity while maintaining communication efficiency.
3Reliability
If message routing is centralized in message coordinators, then reliability and security are improved, but device complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimensional layer of message coordination that sits between traditional routing layers. Message coordinators operate at the application layer, adding coordination functionality without disrupting lower-level network infrastructure. This dimensional addition allows centralized control and reliability improvements while leveraging existing distributed network hardware, thereby avoiding proportional increases in device complexity. The coordinators use standardized protocols to communicate with inter-network interfaces, maintaining simplicity through standardization.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for communicating messages of distributed private network (DPN) over a plurality of communication networks including an inter-network interface and a message coordinator communicatively coupled. The inter-network interface is operable to receive a packetized message from a first DPN network element over a first communication network. The message coordinator receives the packetized message from the inter-network interface, assigns at least a transport route for the packetized message; and communicates the packetized message to a second DPN network element based on the assigned transport route over a second communication network. The message coordinator is further operable to assign priority protocol and security protocol to the packetized message.