Interconnected Ring Network Protection for Isolated Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ITU-T G.8032 protocol specifications inadequately address scenarios where multiple faults isolate an interconnection node in interconnected ring networks, leading to permanent disruption of end-to-end client traffic continuity despite the existence of alternative paths.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a mechanism to detect isolated interconnection nodes using Continuity Check Messages (CCMs) and trigger protection switches to remove channel blocks on subtending sub-rings, enabling the restoration of end-to-end client traffic connectivity through extensions to the ITU-T G.8032 state machine and support for operator commands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current ITU-T G.8032 protocol specifications are used, then ring protection switching is implemented, but interconnection nodes become permanently isolated when multiple faults occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where interconnection nodes continuously exchange CCM messages to monitor connectivity status. When an isolated node condition is detected through missed CCMs, the system triggers a protection switch that cleanses forwarding tables and removes channel blocks, restoring traffic continuity. This closed-loop feedback system enables the network to automatically detect and respond to multiple fault conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes preliminary protective measures by pre-configuring CCM message exchanges between interconnection nodes before faults occur. The system proactively monitors connectivity and maintains readiness to trigger protection switches. When isolation is detected, the pre-established mechanisms enable rapid restoration of traffic continuity without requiring complex real-time decision-making during fault conditions.
2Device complexity
If the network follows standard G.8032 protocol, then simple ring protection is achieved, but complex meshed deployment environments cannot handle isolated nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the G.8032 protocol to provide multi-functionality. The same CCM message exchange mechanism used for basic ring protection is also utilized to detect isolated nodes in meshed environments. The protection switch mechanism serves dual purposes: standard ring protection and isolation recovery. This universal approach allows a single protocol framework to handle both simple ring and complex meshed deployments effectively.
3Reliability
If channel blocks remain on sub-rings during faults, then fault isolation is maintained, but end-to-end traffic connectivity is permanently disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic channel block management. Channel blocks on sub-rings are not static but are dynamically adjusted based on real-time connectivity status. When isolation is detected through CCM message failures, the system dynamically removes channel blocks to restore traffic flow. This dynamic approach allows the network to transition from a blocked state during faults to an active state when recovery is possible, minimizing traffic continuity loss while maintaining fault isolation when appropriate.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides protection systems and methods that provide a mechanism to identify/determine when an interconnection node has been isolated (i.e. when there is no connectivity between a pair of interconnection nodes), from a data path perspective. If/when this condition exists, actions are triggered on the subtending sub-ring that essentially perform a protection switch (which causes the subtending sub-ring nodes to cleanse their forwarding tables), and, more importantly, that remove any channel blocks on the subtending sub-ring. Extensions to the ITU-T G.8032 state machine are also provided that include support for operator command interactions (e.g. DNR, force switch, manual switch, etc.). The protection systems and methods of the present disclosure enable the reliable application of ITU-T G.8032 and the like to more complex (i.e. meshed) deployment environments, among other significant advantages.