Unified Controller Framework for Network Device Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems face difficulties in modifying and configuring computer network devices (CNDs) due to architectural and communication obstacles, leading to increased development time and cost, especially when dealing with different types of CNDs that use separate controllers and protocols.
Innovation Solution
A computer system that converts user-interface metadata into a hierarchical representation, allowing non-technical users to modify configurations through a human-readable interface, and provides a common framework with a unified protocol layer for managing multiple types of CNDs using metadata-driven programming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate controllers are used for different types of CNDs, then each controller can be optimized for its specific device type, but the overall system complexity increases and unified management becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal controller architecture that can manage multiple types of CNDs (cellular base stations, WLAN access points, Bluetooth devices) through a common framework. The controller uses device-type-specific program modules that are loaded and executed based on the detected CND type, allowing one controller to perform multiple specialized functions without requiring separate dedicated controllers for each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is segmented into modular components: a common framework that handles universal control functions, and separate device-type-specific program modules for different CND types. This segmentation allows the system to load only the necessary module for the current device being managed, reducing memory usage and complexity while maintaining the ability to handle multiple device types.
2Manufacturing precision
If machine code is used for device configuration, then precise control is achieved, but non-technical users cannot understand or modify the configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a natural language processing layer as an intermediary between user input and machine code execution. Users can configure devices using natural language commands that are processed and translated into the appropriate machine code instructions by the controller. This intermediary layer preserves configuration precision while making the system accessible to non-technical users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/technical configuration interfaces (button presses, code entry, graphical UIs) with a language-based interface. Instead of requiring users to interact with complex technical controls, the system substitutes these with natural language communication, which is then processed by the controller to achieve the desired configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If features are modified in electronic devices, then functionality is improved, but development time and cost increase due to architectural obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic configuration system where device features and capabilities can be modified at runtime by loading or updating program modules without requiring physical device changes or lengthy reconfiguration processes. The controller can dynamically adjust device behavior by executing different program modules based on operational requirements, enabling rapid feature modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-loads and stores device-type-specific program modules in memory, preparing them in advance for quick deployment. When a new device type needs to be managed or a feature modification is required, the appropriate pre-prepared module can be rapidly loaded and executed, significantly reducing development and configuration time compared to creating configurations from scratch.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer system is described. This computer system may implement a controller for multiple different types of computer network devices (CNDs), such as: an access point, a switch, a router, and a dataplane. Moreover, the computer system may have a common framework for program modules (with sets of program instructions) associated with the different types of CNDs. Furthermore, configuration and management of a given type of CND using the program modules may be specified by metadata associated with the given type of CND. Additionally, the common framework may include a unified protocol layer for the program modules, and one or more of the program modules may be modified or configured via the unified protocol layer using a common communication Alternatively or additionally, the computer system may communicate with the different types of CNDs via the unified protocol layer using a second common communication protocol.