Network Model Equivalence Testing via Normal Form Simplification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current network modeling techniques, such as NetML, do not provide mechanisms for automatically comparing or determining the equivalence and generalization of network models, which is essential for understanding the complex layered nature of telecommunications networks.

Innovation Solution

The method involves obtaining models of networks, simplifying them using normal form rules, and performing equivalence tests to determine if the simplified models are isomorphic, with additional rules for handling reverse multiplexing and adaptation, allowing for the determination of equivalence and generalization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If network models are simplified using normal form rules, then the complexity of equivalence testing is reduced, but the precision of model representation may be lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel complexityVSAvoidmodel representation precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The equivalence testing process is segmented into two distinct phases: first, simplifying network models using normal form rules to reduce complexity, and second, performing equivalence testing on the simplified models. This segmentation allows the system to manage complex network models by breaking down the equivalence verification into manageable steps, reducing the overall computational complexity while maintaining verification capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates simplified copies of network models through normal form transformations. These copied models retain the essential structural characteristics needed for equivalence testing while eliminating redundant elements. The copying approach enables equivalence verification without requiring direct comparison of the full, complex original models, thus reducing computational burden.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Measurement precision

If equivalence testing is performed on detailed network models, then measurement precision is improved, but the time required for testing increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequivalence test accuracyVSAvoidtesting time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing normal form simplification on network models before conducting equivalence testing. This preprocessing step transforms complex models into simplified representations that retain essential equivalence characteristics. By preparing the models in advance through simplification, the actual equivalence testing phase requires less computational time while maintaining sufficient accuracy for determining network equivalence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If normal form rules are applied to simplify network models, then the ease of operation for equivalence testing is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional transformation rules

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequivalence testing easeVSAvoidtransformation rule complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The normal form transformation rules are designed to be self-applying to network models. The simplification process automatically transforms complex network representations into standardized normal forms without requiring manual intervention or complex external processing. This self-service characteristic of the transformation rules makes the equivalence testing process easier to operate, as the system autonomously handles the simplification step before testing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7848254B2Methods and apparatus for determining equivalence and generalization of a network model
Publication Date: 2010.12.07 WSOU INVESTMENTS LLC
  • US7848254B2 patent drawing
  • US7848254B2 patent drawing
  • US7848254B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and apparatus are provided for determining equivalence and generalization of a network model. A method is provided for determining whether two networks are equivalent. A model of at least two networks is obtained, and then simplified using one or more normal form rules. A test is then performed to determine if the two simplified network models are equivalent (e.g., isomorphic). A first network M is said to be generalized by a second network N, M≦N, if every test that satisfies M also satisfies N. A first network M is said to be equivalent to a second network N, N≡M, if M generalizes N and N generalizes M.