Multicast Ring Aggregation Node Active Standby Port Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multicast protection solutions are inadequate for protecting downstream multicast rings, leading to reduced security in multicast transmission systems, as they do not extend protection beyond a single multicast ring.
Innovation Solution
Implementing active and standby ports for aggregation nodes connecting a first multicast ring to a downstream second multicast ring, allowing for node failure protection and increased security through heartbeat protocol signaling and port management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a BFD for PIM mechanism is used to protect a single multicast ring, then fault detection capability is improved, but protection scope is limited to only a single ring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the BFD for PIM protection mechanism from single-ring to multi-ring scenarios by introducing aggregation nodes with active/standby port configurations. The same BFD mechanism is made universal across multiple rings through hierarchical deployment, allowing fault detection and protection to function at both ring level and aggregation level simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the multicast network into multiple hierarchical levels: individual multicast rings and aggregation nodes connecting to downstream rings. Each segment can independently apply BFD for PIM protection while maintaining overall system coherence, enabling localized fault isolation and protection without requiring complete redesign of the entire network.
2Adaptability or versatility
If active and standby ports are configured for aggregation nodes connecting multiple rings, then protection scope is extended to downstream rings, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic port state management where aggregation nodes automatically switch between active and standby states based on detected link failures. The port configurations are not static but dynamically adjust to network conditions, with BFD for PIM signaling enabling automatic failover without manual intervention, thereby managing complexity through automation rather than static configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The aggregation nodes perform self-service by automatically detecting failures through BFD for PIM signaling and autonomously switching port states between active and standby. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex external management systems, allowing the network to self-heal and adapt to failures without increasing operational complexity.
3Reliability
If multiple aggregation nodes are used to connect rings, then node failure protection is improved, but risk of data storms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control through BFD for PIM signaling between aggregation nodes and ring interfaces. This continuous monitoring provides real-time feedback on link status, enabling the system to detect failures and adjust port states accordingly. The feedback mechanism prevents data storms by ensuring that standby ports remain blocked until failure is confirmed, avoiding premature switching that could cause loops.
Solution Approach 2:
The BFD for PIM signaling acts as an intermediary mechanism between the physical network state and the port configuration state. It mediates the decision-making process for port switching, providing a controlled interface that coordinates changes across multiple aggregation nodes. This intermediary layer ensures synchronized state changes and prevents conflicting configurations that could lead to data storms.
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
The present invention provides a system, an apparatus, and a method for transmitting a multicast service. The system includes: a first multicast ring, including a first node, a second node and at least one third node; and a second multicast ring, including a first node, at least one fourth node, and a second node that are connected in sequence, where each of the first node and the second node includes: a first port and a third port, configured to receive and forward a multicast service on the first multicast ring; and a second port, configured to: when serving as an active port, forward the multicast service received from the first multicast ring to the second multicast ring, and when serving as a standby port, block forwarding of the multicast service received from the first multicast ring to the second multicast ring, where in normal cases, one port of the second port of the first node and the second port of the second node is an active port, and the other port of the second port of the first node and the second port of the second node is a standby port. In the present invention, an active port and a standby port are provided for aggregation nodes of a multicast ring, which increases the security of a system.