Inferring Physical Layer Connection Status from Single-End Events
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing physical layer management (PLM) technologies are unable to track connections made using standard cables, as they rely on identifier-based systems that cannot read information from unmanaged cables.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that detect connections and disconnections using single-end events, generating work orders and updating a management system to indicate connection status, even when unmanaged cables are used, by illuminating LEDs and monitoring I/O lines to infer connection events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If identifier-based PLM technology (EEPROM or RFID) is used to track cable connections, then connection tracking capability is improved for managed cables, but the system becomes unable to track connections using standard unmanaged cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of a management system that coordinates between multiple network elements. This intermediary processes single-end connection events from either端 of a cable and infers complete connection status, enabling tracking of unmanaged cables without requiring identifier devices on the cables themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical identifier-based system (EEPROM or RFID tags on cables) with an event-based detection system. Instead of reading identifiers from cables, the system detects connection events through electrical signals (I/O line changes) at network element ports and infers connection status from these events.
2Adaptability or versatility
If single-end connection event detection is used to track unmanaged cables, then compatibility with standard cables is improved, but connection status verification becomes less direct
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the management system monitors connection events at both ends of cables (when available) and uses this feedback to verify and update connection status in the CMDB. The system continuously tracks connection events and updates the management database, providing ongoing verification of connection status rather than single-point detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by establishing a planned connection state in the management system before physical connection occurs. The system compares the actual connection events against the planned connection state to validate that connections are made correctly, providing proactive verification rather than reactive detection.
Data Source
AI summary
A work order is generated. The work order comprises a first work order step specifying that a port of a first network element is to be connected to a port of a second network element using a cable. The first and second network elements are configured to detect when connections are made at the specified ports of the first network element and the second network element. A management system is configured to update information it maintains to indicate that there is a connection between the specified port of the first network element and the specified port of the second network element if connections made at the specified ports of the first and second network elements are detected during a period in which the first work order step of the first work order is expected to be performed. A similar technique can be used for disconnecting a cable.