Trunk-and-Branch Infrastructure Link Layout with Steiner Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to efficiently and reliably design the path arrangement of infrastructure link networks, such as submarine communication cable networks, to facilitate cost-effective construction or modification as internet traffic increases.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for determining a path arrangement of an infrastructure link network with a trunk-and-branch topology, involving modeling geographic terrain, optimizing a cost function with constraints, and using Steiner Minimal Tree problems to determine optimal positions of Steiner nodes and connection points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the path arrangement of infrastructure link network is optimized using conventional methods, then construction cost may be reduced, but the design efficiency and reliability are insufficient to meet increasing internet traffic demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional manual or heuristic design methods with an automated computer-implemented optimization system that uses mathematical modeling and algorithms to determine optimal path arrangements, thereby significantly improving design efficiency while reducing construction costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes multiple parameters simultaneously including path lengths, connection point locations, and network topology to achieve cost-effective designs that meet performance requirements for latency and reliability
2Ease of manufacture
If the path arrangement is optimized to reduce construction cost, then cost-effectiveness improves, but the reliability and connectivity assurance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary optimization of the path arrangement before construction by modeling geographic terrain and constraints, identifying optimal connection points and path lengths that simultaneously minimize cost and ensure reliability requirements are met
Solution Approach 2:
The optimization system incorporates feedback loops that iteratively adjust path arrangements based on constraint satisfaction (maximum path lengths, latency requirements) to achieve both cost-effectiveness and reliability
3Reliability
If connection points are added to improve network topology and reliability, then connectivity is enhanced, but construction cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by adding only the necessary number of connection points required to achieve optimal trunk-and-branch topology, avoiding unnecessary complexity while ensuring sufficient connectivity and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the network into a structured trunk-and-branch topology with identified connection points, organizing the infrastructure link network into manageable segments that balance reliability with complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for determining a path arrangement of an infrastructure link network with a trunk-and-branch topology. The method includes: modelling a geographic terrain including three or more geographic locations that are connectable with each other via an infrastructure link network; determining a cost function associated with a cost for constructing the infrastructure link network that connects the three or more geographic locations; and determining a path arrangement of the infrastructure link network based on the modelled geographic terrain and by optimizing the cost function taking into account one or more constraints. The path arrangement of the infrastructure link network has a trunk-and-branch topology and includes: three or more infrastructure links that connect the three or more geographic locations, and one or more connection points each arranged between two or more of the infrastructure links.