Network Physical Layer Information Aggregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication network management systems lack the ability to utilize physical layer information across the network, limiting their ability to provide comprehensive management and optimization of physical communication links, as they are typically 'patch-panel' centric and do not integrate physical layer data with application-layer functionality.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes connector assemblies with programmable processors and media reading interfaces to capture and aggregate physical layer information, making it available for use by application-layer functionalities outside traditional physical-layer management domains, and an aggregation point that stores and provides this information to network management systems and inter-networking devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical layer management systems are designed to be patch-panel centric with intelligence focused on facilitating cross connections, then the ease of operation for technicians is improved, but the ability to integrate physical layer information with application-layer functionality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal interfaces and standardized data models that enable the physical layer management system to serve multiple functions: both traditional patch-panel operations and integration with application-layer network management systems. The system can simultaneously facilitate technician operations while providing structured physical layer information to external applications through standardized protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer that translates between the patch-panel centric physical layer data and application-layer requirements. This intermediary component enables seamless integration without requiring changes to either the traditional PLM system or the application-layer systems, allowing information to flow between layers through a mediating interface.
2Measurement precision
If physical layer information is collected and stored in isolated PLM systems, then the measurement precision of physical connections is improved, but the loss of information to application-layer systems occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously isolated physical layer information with application-layer network management data by establishing integrated communication channels. The precise physical layer measurements and connection status data are combined with logical network information, creating a unified view that eliminates information silos and enables comprehensive network management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-structuring and standardizing physical layer information collection using standardized data models and protocols. This preparation ensures that when application-layer systems need this information, it is already available in a usable format, preventing information loss and enabling immediate integration without additional data transformation.
3Ease of operation
If network management systems focus on logical communication links, then the ease of operation for network management is improved, but the measurement precision of physical layer configurations is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds another dimension to network management by integrating both logical layer information and physical layer information into a unified management framework. This multi-dimensional approach allows operators to work with logical connections at the application layer while simultaneously accessing precise physical layer configuration data when needed, without sacrificing the simplicity of logical network management.
Data Source
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AI summary
An exemplary system includes a plurality of connector assemblies. Each of the connector assemblies includes a plurality of ports. Each of the connector assemblies is configured to read information stored on or in physical communication media that is connected to the ports of the respective connector assembly. An aggregation point is communicatively coupled to the plurality of connector assemblies. The aggregation point is configured to automatically discover the connector assemblies and cause each of the connector assemblies to send to the aggregation point at least some of the information read from the physical communication media that is connected to its ports. The aggregation point is configured to store at least some of the information sent by the connector assemblies to the aggregation point. The aggregation point can also be configured to provide at least some of the information it stores to at least one other device via the network.