Network Element Web Service Agent for Network-Wide Information Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional network management systems are limited to individual network element management, requiring centralized systems to diagnose issues and lacking network-wide information, which complicates communication and problem-solving across network elements.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a web service agent in network elements that provides network-wide information through open standards interfaces, allowing web browsers to access and mash-up services from multiple network elements, reducing reliance on centralized management systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional element management systems are used to manage network elements individually, then each network element can be managed separately, but network-wide information is limited and centralized systems are required for diagnosis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides network-wide information management into segments by enabling each network element to independently expose and share its own information through standardized interfaces. Each element maintains local information while contributing to collective network visibility, eliminating the need for a centralized information repository.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to network element capability by enabling them not only to manage their own state but also to provide network-wide context. Network elements transition from being purely local devices to having dual functionality: local self-management and network-wide information provision through standardized exposure interfaces.
2Loss of information
If centralized network management systems are used to provide network-wide information, then comprehensive network information is available, but each network element must be individually discovered and accessed
Solution Approach 1:
Network elements autonomously expose their information and services through standardized interfaces without requiring centralized discovery or registration. Each element independently makes its capabilities available to the network, eliminating the need for centralized element discovery mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal standardized interfaces that enable network elements to both manage themselves and provide network-wide information through the same exposure mechanisms. This multi-functionality allows single points of access to serve both local element management and network-wide information retrieval.
3Ease of operation
If network elements expose management interfaces for individual management, then element-level control is achieved, but network-wide service visibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges element-level management interfaces with network-wide information exposure by combining multiple information types (element state, service capabilities, network context) into unified standardized exposure interfaces. This integration allows simultaneous access to both local element details and network-wide service information.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional management interfaces are used, then individual network element features can be managed, but communication between network elements requires centralized systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces standardized information exposure interfaces as intermediaries that enable direct peer-to-peer communication between network elements. These interfaces act as universal mediators that allow elements to exchange information and coordinate actions without requiring centralized routing or translation mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses enable a network of traffic control devices to be viewed as a network of services. A web client sends a query compatible with an open API to a traffic control device. The traffic control device responds to the request by providing the requested service, and indicating an additional, related service that is available externally to the responding traffic control device. Thus, the traffic control device provides network information to the web client, which is traditionally only available via a network management system. The web client can then access the external service.