Ring network with variable rate
US7420922B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 12, 2003 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 16, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L69/24
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method for changing a network characteristic or capability, such as the communication rate of network segments, software version or protocol. All nodes in the network perform the change synchronously while continuing to communicate within the existing capabilities. A new configuration is downloaded to the nodes, and a manager node exchanges validation messages with the other nodes in order to verify that the nodes can be reconfigured and will be able to complete the process successfully. The manager node then sends a command message to the other nodes to execute the change. In response, the other nodes begin substantially simultaneously to communicate in accordance with the new characteristics and/or capabilities. This method helps to minimize the duration of the upgrade process, while avoiding traffic hits and minimizing abnormal operation that may occur during the upgrade.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.