TSN Manager Function for Virtual Network Interface Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex internal structures of data processing devices running multiple applications pose challenges in mapping and configuring Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) interfaces, as existing centralized and distributed configuration models assume a simple structure, failing to effectively manage internal TSN networks and expose virtual network functions to the TSN control plane.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a TSN Manager Function (TMF) and TSN Proxy Function (TPF) enables the creation and management of abstract TSN resources, mapping internal network structures to virtual interfaces, and mediating between the TSN control plane and virtualization management systems, allowing for complex internal network configurations and orchestration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a data processing device runs multiple applications with complex internal routing structures, then the device can support diverse application requirements, but it becomes difficult to map and configure TSN interfaces effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a TSN Manager Function (TMF) and TSN Proxy Function (TPF) as intermediary components between the TSN control plane and the complex internal network structure. The TPF acts as a proxy that translates TSN control plane commands into internal routing configurations, while the TMF manages the mapping between virtual network functions and physical interfaces. This intermediary layer shields the complexity of internal routing from the TSN configuration process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the data processing device into multiple virtual network functions (VNFs) and virtual interfaces, each managed independently. By dividing the complex internal network into manageable virtual components, each with its own TSN interface representation, the system can apply TSN configuration to specific segments without affecting the entire complex internal structure.
2Ease of operation
If existing centralized or distributed configuration models are used, then configuration can be provided to TSN interfaces, but they fail to effectively manage internal TSN networks and expose virtual network functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal configuration approach where the TSN Manager Function can handle both traditional TSN interface configuration and complex internal TSN network management through a unified interface. The system maintains compatibility with existing centralized and distributed configuration models while adding the capability to manage virtual network functions, making the configuration process universally applicable to both simple and complex scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The TSN Proxy Function serves as an intermediary that translates between the simplified configuration interface expected by existing configuration models and the complex internal TSN network requirements. It mediates between the configuration process and the virtualized internal network, enabling existing configuration approaches to work effectively with complex internal structures without requiring fundamental changes to the configuration process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If virtual network functions are introduced to manage complex internal structures, then TSN functionality is enhanced, but the system requires additional management and orchestration layers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the TSN management functionality with the existing virtualization management infrastructure by integrating the TSN Manager Function into the orchestration layer that already manages virtual network functions. This consolidation allows TSN configuration and virtual network management to be handled by a unified system, reducing the need for separate management layers while enhancing TSN functionality.
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AI summary
According to one embodiment, a data communication managing component is described configured to establish, in a data processing device configured to run multiple applications and having a physical port to a communication network, an internal network of components connecting the applications between them and to the physical port. The data communication managing component is further configured to generate a representation of the internal network as a network of data link layer interfaces in accordance with a data communication protocol for data communication with guaranteed performance, provide the generated representation to a network controller, wherein the network controller is configured to provide control information for data link layer interfaces to enable data communication in accordance with the data communication protocol, receive control information (e.g., scheduling) for the data link layer interfaces of the representation generated by the controller and configure the internal network of the data processing device in accordance with the control information.