Multi-Ring Ethernet Topology Management via Segmented Control Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-ring Ethernet technologies lack effective methods for managing topology, including discovering node locations and path reachability across the entire network.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where nodes periodically send Topology Find Frame (TF) messages through transmission control channels, updating topology databases and forwarding messages with Node Identifiers and Port Identifiers to manage and maintain network topology information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If ring protection link control nodes block protection data forwarding function on secondary ports to prevent broadcasting storm, then network stability is improved, but topology discoverability and manageability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the Ethernet ring into working ports and protection ports, with dedicated ring protection link control nodes managing each ring. This segmentation allows protection data to be blocked on secondary ports while enabling separate topology discovery mechanisms through designated ports, resolving the contradiction between stability and manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces topology discovery messages as an intermediary mechanism that operates independently from protection data forwarding. These special messages can traverse the ring structure to discover and record node topologies, while regular protection data remains blocked on secondary ports, thus maintaining both network stability and topology discoverability.
2Reliability
If multi-ring Ethernet uses ring networking to improve reliability, then network reliability is improved, but topology management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service topology discovery where nodes automatically send and process topology discovery messages to build their own topology databases. Each node independently discovers its position and connections without requiring centralized control, reducing management complexity while maintaining the reliable ring structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state of specific ports from blocked to discoverable by introducing a special topology discovery mode. Ring protection link control nodes and their associated ports are configured to allow topology discovery messages while blocking regular protection data, enabling simplified topology management without compromising ring reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If ring protection link control nodes open protection data forwarding function after link failure, then network adaptability is improved, but topology detection accuracy deteriorates due to lack of centralized topology information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary topology discovery and database building before failures occur. Nodes continuously maintain updated topology databases through periodic discovery messages, so when link failures happen and protection forwarding is opened, nodes already possess accurate topology information for rapid and precise adaptation without losing detection accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for managing a topology of a multi-ring Ethernet and a system thereof are disclosed, and the method includes: a node including a blocked port on the multi-ring Ethernet periodically sending a Topology Find Frame (TF) message along a transmission control channel through an own good port; a node receiving said TF message in the multi-ring Ethernet updating an own topology database according the NODE_LIST in said TF message, writing an own NODE_ID into the NODE_LIST of said TF message, and then forwarding said TF message along the transmission control channel.