Port Location Mapping via Packet Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the physical location of devices connected to ports on intermediate network nodes in wired networks are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to errors, especially in environments with frequent changes or emergencies, where accurate mapping is crucial for network maintenance and emergency response.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that use a heuristic mapping process to associate ports on intermediate network nodes with physical locations by analyzing data packets and utilizing a port confidence data structure to determine the highest confidence location of connected devices, even in dynamic network conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual methods are used to map ports to physical locations, then the mapping can be maintained with simple procedures, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically discovering and mapping ports to physical locations without requiring manual intervention. The intermediate network node autonomously traces cables and identifies device locations, eliminating the need for personnel to physically trace cables while maintaining accurate mappings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual process of tracing cables with an automated electronic system. Instead of persons physically following cables from ports to devices, the system uses data packet analysis and heuristic algorithms to automatically determine physical locations, significantly improving update speed.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual updates are performed to keep mapping current, then the process remains simple, but it is time-consuming and may be omitted leading to outdated information
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous automatic updates of port-to-location mappings by continuously analyzing data packets and monitoring network traffic. This ensures the mapping information remains current without requiring periodic manual updates, eliminating time loss while maintaining simplicity through automated continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms by analyzing returning data packets to verify and update mapping information. When data packets traverse the network, the system monitors their path and uses this feedback to automatically update the mapping database, ensuring current information without manual intervention.
3Ease of manufacture
If power levels are used to indicate active ports, then the method is simple, but it becomes difficult to determine port-device associations with dozens of devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary automated mapping system that mediates between ports and physical locations. Instead of directly observing power levels or physically tracing each cable, the system uses data packet analysis as an intermediary method to indirectly determine associations, making the detection process feasible even with dozens of devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single-dimensional power level detection to a multi-dimensional approach by analyzing multiple data packet attributes including source addresses, destination addresses, packet timing, and flow patterns. This dimensional expansion enables differentiation and accurate mapping of numerous devices that cannot be distinguished by power levels alone.
4Extent of automation
If automated heuristic mapping is implemented, then the determination of device locations becomes automatic and accurate, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal mapping system that handles multiple network protocols, device types, and location scenarios through a single heuristic framework. The intermediate network node performs multiple functions including packet analysis, mapping maintenance, and location determination, reducing the need for separate specialized systems and managing complexity through functional consolidation.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for associating a physical location with a network interface on an intermediate network node include receiving a data packet from a device connected to a network. Based on data in the data packet, a particular network interface is determined on a first hop intermediate network node. An identity for an entity that originated the data packet is determined based on data in the data packet. A possible physical location for the entity is determined based on the identity. The identity is associated with the possible physical location in an independent data source that is accessible over the network and different from the data packet. The particular network interface is associated with a highest confidence location for the device based on the possible physical location of the entity and any former locations associated with the particular network interface.