Web-Based Network Topology Viewer for Simplified Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Local area networks are often too complex to diagnose due to the diversity of devices and configurations, making diagnosis and repair difficult.
Innovation Solution
A web-based network topology viewer that provides a graphical user interface to visualize the local area network, representing devices with networking details, and suggesting enhancements or upgrades to improve networking capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a network topology viewer is developed to simplify network diagnosis, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network topology viewer as an intermediary tool between network administrators and complex network infrastructure. This viewer translates raw network data into visual representations, making network topology, device connections, and traffic flows easily understandable without requiring deep technical expertise in network protocols and configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual network diagnosis methods (mechanical/systematic approach of checking each device and connection) with an automated visual inspection system. The network topology viewer automatically discovers, maps, and displays network infrastructure, substituting the manual mechanical process of network troubleshooting with an automated information visualization system.
2Measurement precision
If the network topology viewer provides detailed networking details for each device, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network information into hierarchical levels of detail. The network topology viewer presents an overview of the entire network first, then allows users to drill down into specific devices and connections. Each device can be examined at different levels of granularity, from basic connectivity to detailed port and protocol information, enabling precise measurement without overwhelming the user with all details simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to network information presentation by using visual mapping and graphical representations. Instead of presenting detailed networking data in flat text formats, the system uses spatial relationships, colors, and graphical icons to encode multiple layers of information, allowing precise network details to be perceived at a glance through visual patterns and spatial arrangements.
3Loss of information
If the network topology viewer provides comprehensive network representation, then loss of information is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple network information sources and data types into a unified visual representation. The network topology viewer consolidates device inventory, connection topology, traffic flows, error statistics, and configuration details into a single integrated interface, eliminating information loss that would occur if these separate data sets were managed independently or presented in separate tools.
Data Source
AI summary
A network topology viewer provides a simulation of a local area network. Any device communicating via the local area network is represented as an icon with networking details (such as device name, connection type and topology, network address, and port status). Moreover, the network topology viewer is web-based, thus providing a generic or agnostic solution that does not depend on hardware or software capabilities. Any device communicating via the local area network may download the network topology viewer using a software plugin or web-based application. The network topology viewer generates a complete and holistic representation of the local area network, thus simplifying diagnostics and maintenance efforts.