Switching Device Grouping for IP Address Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IP address distribution systems, such as DHCP, allocate IP addresses without considering the physical configuration of the network, leading to increased costs when routers are used to manage and distribute addresses across multiple vehicle networks in a train setting.
Innovation Solution
An IP-address distribution system utilizing a network of switching devices, where switching devices are grouped to interrupt IP-address request signals, allowing IP addresses to be managed and distributed for each group without the need for multiple routers, thereby reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If routers are installed to divide the network into segments for managing and distributing IP addresses for each group, then the ability to manage and distribute IP addresses for each group is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network into multiple broadcast domains by using multiple DHCP servers, each managing a specific segment. Switching devices are configured to interrupt IP-address request signals at physical ports connecting to other groups, effectively segmenting the network without requiring routers. This allows independent IP address management for each group while avoiding the high cost of router deployment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of routers increases to manage more network segments, then the ability to manage devices in multiple groups is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes switching devices perform the additional function of interrupting IP-address request signals at specific ports, combining the routing function of segmenting broadcast domains with the existing switching infrastructure. This multi-functionality allows the system to manage multiple device groups without adding dedicated router devices, thereby avoiding increased costs while improving adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An IP-address distribution system according to the present invention includes a network formed by a plurality of switching devices, and a plurality of IP-address distribution devices connected to the network, wherein the switching devices are grouped into two or more groups, and the switching devices interrupt an IP-address request signal transmitted from a terminal that requests allocation of an IP address at a physical port to which a switching device in another group is connected.