Modular Network Device Automatic Inventory Reporting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic provisioning systems for network devices are ineffective for modular devices with varying line card and module configurations, as they require fixed hardware configurations and cannot automate the deployment of modular network devices, leading to labor-intensive and error-prone inventory management and configuration processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that enables modular network devices to dynamically discover and report their inventory to a management point, using a generic startup configuration to establish a connection and generate a permanent configuration based on relative interface references, allowing devices to self-initiate inventory reporting and adapt to changing hardware configurations, even behind firewalls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If standardized template-based configurations are used, then configuration consistency is improved, but device adaptability deteriorates because fixed slot references cannot work with varying line card placements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static slot-based configuration references into dynamic interface-based references. Instead of hardcoding configurations for specific slots (e.g., slot 1, interface 3), the system uses relative interface references (e.g., first serial interface, second Ethernet interface) that automatically adapt to the actual hardware configuration. This dynamic approach allows the same template to work across different physical arrangements while maintaining configuration consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of configuration reference from absolute slot numbers to relative interface identifiers. By substituting fixed positional parameters with functional interface parameters, the system maintains configuration accuracy regardless of physical hardware arrangement. The configuration template references interfaces by their functional characteristics rather than their physical locations.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual inventory management is used, then initial setup is simple, but labor intensity and error rates increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automatic inventory reporting. When a modular network device is powered on, it automatically discovers its own hardware configuration (line cards, modules, interfaces) and reports this inventory information to the provisioning system without human intervention. The device self-describes its capabilities and physical arrangement, eliminating the need for manual inventory entry and reducing deployment labor significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where the network device continuously reports its inventory status to the provisioning system. This feedback mechanism enables the provisioning system to automatically receive real-time information about device hardware configuration and use it to generate appropriate templates, creating an automated closed-loop deployment process that improves productivity.
3Measurement precision
If fixed hardware configuration is required for template configurations, then configuration accuracy is improved, but device flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal configuration template that can serve multiple hardware configurations. Instead of requiring separate templates for different line card arrangements, the system uses a single universal template with relative interface references that adapts to any valid hardware configuration. This multi-functional template approach maintains configuration accuracy across diverse hardware setups while maximizing device flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of provisioning modular network devices is described. A generic configuration is placed on a device; the configuration comprises commands for configuring interfaces associated the device. At the device, each interface associated with the device is configured with at least one command associated with the configuration. The device then attempts to connect with a management point through the current interface. If the current interface can connect to the management point, then an inventory of all interfaces associated with the device is self-initiated and automatically communicated by the device to the management point. In other embodiments, based on the inventory information, a configuration template containing relative interface references may be resolved into a permanent device configuration that includes absolute interface references. As a result, modular network devices in which interfaces of various types are installed at different slot locations may acquire a permanent configuration automatically from a remote management station.