Virtual Concatenation for Dynamic Bandwidth Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current packet switched networks, particularly IP networks, face challenges in dynamically adapting to changing traffic demands due to the slow responsiveness of transport networks, which can lead to inefficient bandwidth allocation and increased costs, as they rely solely on routers for network adaptations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method for automatic bandwidth adaptation within SDH/SONET or OTN transport networks using circuit switching, which includes packet traffic estimation and virtual concatenation to dynamically adjust bandwidth without disrupting interconnected routers, leveraging ASTN and LCAS functions for real-time control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If packet switched networks use routers for network adaptation, then flexibility in handling changing traffic demands is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the network adaptation function by separating packet traffic estimation (performed at packet interfaces) from circuit establishment (performed by the transport network). This division allows routers to focus on packet forwarding while the transport network handles connectivity adaptation, reducing router complexity while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary mechanism where packet interfaces perform traffic estimation and generate connectivity requests, which are then processed by the transport network to establish circuits. This intermediary layer enables flexible traffic handling without requiring complex routing decisions at every router.
2Device complexity
If transport networks use fixed bandwidth allocation, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to changing traffic demands deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the transport network dynamic by enabling automatic circuit establishment and teardown based on real-time traffic estimation. The transport network transitions from static fixed bandwidth allocation to dynamic bandwidth adjustment, where circuits are automatically created or removed according to measured traffic needs, improving responsiveness while keeping the transport network relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a feedback mechanism where packet interfaces continuously estimate traffic and generate connectivity requests that are fed back to the transport network. This closed-loop system allows the transport network to automatically adapt bandwidth allocation based on actual traffic conditions, achieving dynamic responsiveness with minimal complexity.
3Ease of operation
If bandwidth is allocated in advance in SDH/SONET networks, then connectivity establishment is simplified, but efficiency in utilizing network resources deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies preliminary action by pre-establishing the capability for automatic circuit management in the transport network, but only activating it when traffic estimation triggers a connectivity request. This allows the network to maintain simple fixed bandwidth allocation as a baseline while enabling on-demand circuit establishment to improve resource utilization efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of bandwidth allocation from fixed to variable by introducing automatic circuit establishment based on traffic estimation. The transport network can dynamically adjust the number and capacity of circuits according to measured traffic needs, optimizing resource utilization while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for automatic adaptation of connectivity by means of virtual concatenation groups of packet traffic in a circuit switched transport network in which an estimate of the packet traffic is made and the band available between packet interfaces which engage the transport network is increased or decreased by creation or removal of virtual concatenation circuits according to the necessities indicated by the estimate.