Network Element Configuration via Conditional Data Templates
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for configuring network elements in broadband networks face challenges when new or revised routers are deployed, as they often lack matching configuration templates, leading to configuration failures and requiring manual intervention due to varying parameters like name changes, even if the functionality remains identical.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a configuration rendering engine that stores templates with predetermined and conditional configuration data, where conditional data includes time-varying parameters, allowing for dynamic adaptation and creation of configuration statements without the need for discrete templates for every network element type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If discrete templates are stored for all network elements, then configuration can be automated, but the system becomes complex and fails when new or revised elements are deployed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single template structure that can accommodate multiple network element types through conditional data fields. Instead of maintaining separate discrete templates for each element type, the system uses one universal template with conditional sections that adapt to different elements based on their detected characteristics, thereby reducing template management complexity while preserving automation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the template configurable through conditional data that changes based on detected network element properties. The template transitions from a static, fixed structure to a dynamic one that automatically adapts to new or revised elements by evaluating conditional fields and adjusting configuration parameters accordingly, eliminating the need for manual template updates
2Reliability
If manual intervention is used for reconfiguration, then configuration accuracy can be maintained, but cost and delay increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by detecting actual network element properties (such as name changes or parameter variations) and using this information to automatically adjust the configuration template. The system queries the network element for its current state, compares it against the template, and automatically modifies the template parameters to match the detected properties, ensuring both accuracy and automation without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-defining conditional configuration data fields in the template that anticipate various network element variations. These conditional fields are prepared in advance with appropriate configuration values, allowing the system to automatically respond to new or revised elements without requiring manual template creation or modification, thus reducing reconfiguration delay
3Reliability
If template parameters are updated to match new versions, then configuration success rate improves, but the system requires continuous manual updates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the system to automatically detect network element properties and update the template configuration without human intervention. The system queries the network element for its current state, automatically identifies matching conditional data fields, and updates the template parameters accordingly, allowing the template to self-adapt to new versions and eliminating the need for manual template maintenance
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of configuring network elements in a system comprising network elements and a network provisioning and control system by which connection of network elements to a broadband network is controlled, the network provisioning and control system including a configuration rendering engine that operates to configure the network elements connected to the network, the method comprising: storing network element configuration templates in the network provisioning and control system, each template comprising predetermined configuration data and conditional configuration data; detecting a network element connected to the network and requiring configuration; determining the template relating to the specific network element to be configured; interrogating the system to determine discrete values for the conditional configuration data; preparing a configuration statement for the network element based on the selected template using the predetermined configuration data and the determined, discrete values of the conditional configuration data; and configuring the network element using the configuration statement.