Multi-Level Network Topology Display for Cross-Element Path Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network topology systems restrict availability and visualization by allowing only single network element viewing, preventing the visualization of overall topology and cross-network-element service paths.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that enable the display of multi-level subnet topology structures by adjusting network element positions, determining subnet densities, and expanding subordinate elements based on zoom operations, allowing cross-level and cross-element network topology viewing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a multi-level tree nested subnet topology structure is constructed to display individual network elements, then the topology structure of each network element can be viewed, but only a single network element can be viewed at a time and the overall network topology cannot be viewed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested display structure where subnet topology structures are nested within parent network elements. Each network element can contain subordinate network elements forming subnets, which can themselves contain further subordinate elements. This nested arrangement allows simultaneous viewing of multiple hierarchy levels, resolving the contradiction between detailed element structure and overall topology visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to the topology display, organizing network elements across multiple levels (parent elements, subordinate elements, sub-subordinate elements, etc.). This dimensional expansion allows the system to display both individual element details and overall topology structure simultaneously by distributing information across different hierarchical layers rather than competing for the same display space.
2Stability of the object's composition
If network elements are arranged based on logical relationship to maintain consistency with actual topology, then the topology view is consistent, but cross-network-element service paths cannot be viewed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces service path information as an intermediary layer that overlays the hierarchical topology structure. Service paths can traverse across multiple network elements and subnets while the underlying hierarchical arrangement maintains topology consistency. This intermediary information layer allows simultaneous preservation of both topology consistency and service path visibility.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual or automatic construction of multi-level tree nested subnet structure is used, then topology structure can be constructed, but availability and visualization effect of network management system are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic expansion and collapse functionality for subnet structures. Network elements can be dynamically expanded to show subordinate elements or collapsed to show only parent elements, allowing the system to adapt to different viewing needs. This dynamic capability improves system availability by allowing users to optimize the display for either detailed analysis or overall overview without reconstructing the topology.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of this application disclose a network topology display method and a communication apparatus to improve availability and visualization effect of a network management and control system. In one embodiment, a communication apparatus obtains a multi-level subnet topology structure, determines a subnet density of a first network element based on a layout setting of a user for the physical position of the subnet of the first network element in the multi-level subnet topology structure, and then determines a current scale based on a zoom operation performed by the user on a display area. When a product of the scale and the subnet density is greater than a preset value, the communication apparatus expands the subnet of the first network element in the display area.