Multi-layer Network Path Setting via Physical Information Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

In multi-layer networks, the static operation of the lower layer network and the high control load in the upper layer network lead to decreased usage efficiency and reliability due to contradictions between physical information from the lower layer and the current state of the lower layer.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layer network system with a first network manager setting logical paths in the upper layer based on physical network information, including route and transmission characteristics from a second network manager, which reduces the control load and enhances reliability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the lower layer network is operated statically, then the device complexity is reduced, but the usage efficiency deteriorates due to inability to dynamically adapt to traffic demands

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol complexityVSAvoidusage efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic operation of the lower layer network by enabling real-time monitoring of physical network state and dynamically adjusting path configurations based on actual traffic demands and network conditions, transforming the static lower layer into an adaptive system that responds to changing requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where the upper layer network manager communicates with the lower layer network manager, allowing the lower layer to receive control instructions based on upper layer traffic demands and to report back its physical network state, enabling closed-loop control that improves usage efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If the upper layer network performs high control load operations, then the path setting accuracy is improved, but the control load and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepath setting accuracyVSAvoidcontrol processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the control functions into two segments: the upper layer network manager handles logical path planning and traffic demand management, while the lower layer network manager handles physical path configuration and state monitoring. This segmentation allows each layer to focus on specific tasks, improving path setting accuracy without overwhelming either layer with excessive control load

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by having the lower layer network manager continuously monitor and report physical network state information in advance, so that when path setting is required, the upper layer already has current accuracy data to work with, reducing the time needed for path calculation and decision-making

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If physical network information is not accurately reflected, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to contradictions between stored information and actual network state

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation management complexityVSAvoidnetwork reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous feedback from the lower layer network manager to the upper layer network manager, where the lower layer reports actual physical network state information including link status, capacity, and topology changes. This feedback mechanism ensures that the upper layer always has accurate information for path planning, maintaining reliability without requiring complex information synchronization protocols

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the lower layer network to self-report its physical state information automatically through the network manager interface, eliminating the need for complex manual updates or intricate information synchronization mechanisms. The lower layer serves itself by maintaining accurate state information and making it available to the upper layer on demand

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20240405875A1Multi-layer network system and path setting method in multi-layer network
Publication Date: 2024.12.05 NEC CORP
  • US20240405875A1 patent drawing
  • US20240405875A1 patent drawing
  • US20240405875A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In a multi-layer network, a control load in the upper layer network increases, and the usage efficiency and the reliability of the entire network decrease; therefore, a multi-layer network system according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention includes a first network manager configured to set a logical path in a first network layer; and a second network manager configured to set a physical path corresponding to the logical path, in a second network layer, wherein the second network manager includes a network information storage configured to store physical network information including physical route information and transmission characteristic information on the second network layer, and the first network manager sets the logical path based on the physical network information.