Network Element Configuration via Automated Menu Command Characterization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional network management systems require manual configuration of network elements, which is costly, time-consuming, and prone to human error, leading to inconsistent configurations and potential system outages.

Innovation Solution

A method and system utilizing a controller to characterize configuration steps as menu-driven screen commands, allowing for automated configuration of network elements by identifying intended elements and executing subsequent requests using these characterized commands, thereby reducing manual input and minimizing errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual configuration methods are used, then network elements can be configured, but the process is extremely costly and time consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration speedVSAvoidconfiguration time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary characterization of configuration steps as menu-driven screen commands during an initial configuration process. This preliminary action creates a reusable command series that can be automatically applied to subsequent network elements, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration and significantly reducing configuration time and costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If manual configuration is performed, then network elements can be set up, but human error leads to system outages and installation delays

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidhuman error

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service configuration by automatically executing characterized menu-driven screen commands on network elements without requiring manual intervention for each configuration step. The controller identifies the target network element and autonomously applies the configured command series, eliminating human error while maintaining configuration accuracy and reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual input process with an automated electronic system. The controller characterizes configuration steps as digital commands and executes them automatically, substituting the human operator's manual actions with an automated electronic mechanism that eliminates errors and improves reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If network engineers are trained extensively, then configuration knowledge is improved, but training expense and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration knowledgeVSAvoidtraining time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The controller acts as an intermediary between the operator and the network element configuration process. It characterizes configuration steps as standardized menu-driven screen commands and handles the complex interaction with network elements, shielding operators from technical complexity and eliminating the need for extensive training while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple distinct sets of instructions are used for different network elements, then specific operational requirements are met, but the number of commands increases leading to more input errors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational support system compatibilityVSAvoidnumber of configuration commands

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the configuration process into discrete, characterized menu-driven screen commands that can be individually stored and executed. By breaking down complex configuration tasks into segmented, standardized command units, the system maintains adaptability to different network elements while reducing the complexity of individual commands and minimizing input errors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS8195771B2Method and apparatus for the configuration of network elements

Publication Date: 2012.06.05 WSOU INVESTMENTS LLC

AI summary

A method for the configuration of network elements includes initially configuring a network element via a controller. The controller characterizes (learns) the configuration steps as a series of menu driven screen commands associated with the network element and processes subsequent substantially similar configuration requests for the network element and other network elements of the network using the characterized series of menu driven screen commands to execute the subsequent configuration requests. As such, the configuration and set-up of new network element(s) or the subsequent modifications to the configuration of existing network element(s), are vastly simplified processes. The present invention advantageously reduces the number of needed manually input parameters, thus making the configuration of network elements more reliable.