JP5670796B2 - Method and communication apparatus for realizing virtual system operation - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique that allows a desired operation to be executed in any part of a communication device without affecting a user's communication so that the influence of the operation can be confirmed.

  Conventionally, for example, when it is desired to check the operation when a communication device fails, it is necessary to actually cause the communication device to fail (port failure, power failure, etc.), which affects user communication. Become.

  For this reason, the confirmation test of the operation at the time of failure by the communication carrier can be performed only before the start of use by the user. In other words, after the user starts using, the operation at the time of failure cannot be confirmed until a failure actually occurs.

  In addition to a failure, there are cases where it is desired to execute a desired operation at any part of the communication device without affecting the user's communication and confirm the influence of the operation.

JP 2000-78153 A

  The present invention has been made with the above background as an issue, and the object of the present invention is to execute a desired operation without affecting the user's communication at any part of the communication device. The purpose is to provide a technology that enables confirmation of the effects of the above.

In order to solve the above problems, a communication apparatus according to the present invention is a communication apparatus, and includes an actual block having at least a part of functions of the communication apparatus and operations that may occur in the functions. Including at least one virtual block to be acquired, obtaining information flowing through a path in the communication device toward the real block, and determining whether the information includes field information for the virtual block to function, When there is no field information, the information is distributed to the real block, and when there is field information, the distribution unit includes a distribution unit that distributes the information to one of the virtual blocks, and the distribution unit is in a valid state or an invalid state. When the distribution unit is in an invalid state, whether the field information is included in the acquired information is determined. The distribution unit distributes the information to the real block, and the distribution unit determines whether or not the field information is included in the acquired information when the information is in a valid state. If there is field information, the information is distributed to one of the virtual blocks, and includes a plurality of parts having the real block, the virtual block, and a distribution part, A communication device characterized in that the distribution unit can be in a valid state or an invalid state in conjunction with each other.

For example, pre-Symbol each portion includes a plurality of virtual blocks, wherein the or what virtual block is selected at each site vary interlocking between the sites.

  For example, the communication device includes an information storage unit that acquires and stores information related to the virtual block from the virtual block.

  For example, the communication device includes means for acquiring information stored in the information storage unit and sending the information to the outside of the communication device in response to a request from the outside.

  For example, the communication apparatus includes means for changing the function of the virtual block by giving update information given from the outside to the virtual block.

  For example, the communication device includes: a real block parameter storage unit that stores parameters that control the operation of the real block; a virtual block parameter storage unit that stores parameters that control the operation of the virtual block; and the real block Parameter copying means for copying the parameter stored in the parameter storage unit for virtual to the parameter storage unit for virtual block, and a function of updating the virtual block information in accordance with the parameter of the parameter storage unit for real block Have.

  For example, the communication device may change the parameter of the real block parameter storage unit and the virtual block so that the virtual block can change only in a state that the virtual block can actually take based on the parameters of the real block parameter storage unit. It has a function of determining the dependency of parameters in the parameter storage unit for use and limiting the parameters that can be taken by the parameter storage unit for virtual block.

  For example, if the parameter stored in the virtual block parameter storage unit is changed, the communication device transmits the parameter to a peripheral communication device along with the change, and the virtual device for the virtual block provided in the communication device It has a function of changing the parameters stored in the parameter storage unit to those corresponding to the transmitted parameters.

According to the communication device according to the present invention, it is possible to execute a desired operation without affecting the user's communication at any part of the communication device, and confirm the influence of the operation.

It is explanatory drawing of the communication apparatus 1 which concerns on an example of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the communication apparatus 1 which concerns on an example of this Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of mounting of the virtual block to the communication part PB of the communication apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of mounting of the virtual block to the control part 10 of the communication apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of mounting virtual blocks in the storage unit 12 of the communication device 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of mounting of the site | part which makes a distribution part effective and invalid. It is a figure which shows the state transition of a distribution part. It is the flowchart and sequence figure about the transfer from the invalid state of a distribution part to an effective state. It is the flowchart and sequence figure about a transfer from the effective state of a distribution part to an invalid state. It is a flowchart of real system communication and virtual system communication. It is a figure which shows the input path | route of the instruction | indication which puts a distribution part into an effective state or an invalid state. It is a figure which shows the example of mounting of the site | part which changes the information of a virtual block. It is a figure which shows the example of mounting in which the part which has a some virtual block behaves consistently in cooperation. It is a figure which shows the example of mounting of the site | part which memorize | stores the information of a virtual system. It is a figure which shows the example of mounting of the site | part which emits the information of a virtual type | system | group outside. It is the flowchart and sequence diagram about the transition of each site | part accompanying the instruction | indication to the site | part which has a virtual block. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure and operation | movement of a communication apparatus which concern on the application example in case a real block operate | moves with a parameter. It is a figure which shows the example of the parameter memorize | stored in the parameter memory | storage part for real blocks, and the parameter memory | storage part for virtual blocks, and the change in the time series. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure and operation | movement of the communication apparatus which concern on the further application example in case a real block operate | moves with a parameter. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation | movement in the network containing two or more communication apparatuses which have the same structure as the communication apparatus 1A shown in FIG. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of parameters stored in a real block parameter storage unit and a virtual block parameter storage unit of the communication apparatus A illustrated in FIG. 20 and changes over time. It is a figure which shows the example of the route change different from the route change of FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation | movement in the part of the network containing four communication apparatuses. It is a figure which shows the change in the time series of the network image of a real block and a virtual block. It is a figure which shows the image regarding the state transition of the parameter storage part for real blocks, and the parameter storage part for virtual blocks. It is a block diagram of the communication apparatus 1 when not having the parameter storage part P202 for virtual blocks. It is a block diagram of the communication apparatus 1 in the case of having the parameter storage part P202 for virtual blocks. It is a block diagram of the communication apparatus which has a function which judges the dependency of the parameter of the parameter storage part P201 for real blocks, and the parameter of the parameter storage part P202 for virtual blocks, and gives a restriction | limiting to the parameter of the parameter storage part P202 for virtual blocks. It is a figure which shows 1A of communication apparatuses which have the virtual system which a change produced, and 1B of communication apparatuses which have a virtual system which changes with this change. FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining an application example after FIG. 17. FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining an application example after FIG. 17. It is a table for comparing the solution method of the problem by the communication apparatus which concerns on this Embodiment, and the said three existing technology.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a communication device 1 according to the present embodiment.

  The communication device 1 in FIG. 1 includes a part K1 having a virtual block, an input unit K2 that inputs a signal, and an output unit K3 that outputs a signal. The part K1 includes a sorting unit K11, a virtual block K12, and a real block K13. The virtual block K12 and the real block K13 are physically different. The distribution unit K11 distributes the virtual signal S12 that causes a virtual change and the real signal S13 through which user communication flows to the virtual block K12 and the real block K13, respectively.

  Specifically, an actual signal (S13) from another device or tester (device 2A) to another device or tester (device 2B) is sent from device 2A to optical fiber FA, input unit. It is transmitted to the apparatus 2B via K2, the distribution unit K11, the real block K13, the output unit K3, and the optical fiber FB.

  On the other hand, the virtual signal (S12) has field information (a flag or the like) indicating that, and the optical fiber FA, input unit K2, distribution unit K11, virtual block K12, output unit K3, optical fiber from the device 2A. It is transmitted to the device 2B via the FB. As a behavior of a virtual signal passing through a virtual block, for example, there is a packet delay.

  The communication device 1 in FIG. 2 has the same configuration as the communication device 1 in FIG. 1 except that the virtual block K12 and the real block K13 are provided in the physically same place B10. That is, the virtual block K12 and the real block K13 are different on the database in terms of software.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, in the present invention, the virtual block and the real block may be physically separated or may be configured by different software.

  The signal is a packet (IP packet or the like), a Mac frame, an ATM cell, or the like, and is not limited to any one, and can be applied to all communication methods. In addition, one or more virtual block mounting locations can be incorporated in a communication unit, a control unit, a storage unit, a power source, a fan, or the like, that is, an arbitrary location (for example, a backplane) of the communication device. Hereinafter, an example will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an implementation example of the virtual block in the communication unit.

  For example, the communication unit PB includes a distribution unit PB1 and a transfer processing unit (virtual block PB2, real block PB3). The transfer processing unit PB2 is a virtual block in the above description, and has a transfer processing function here. On the other hand, although the transfer processing unit PB3 has the same transfer processing function, the transfer processing unit PB2 cannot cause an event such as partial discard or delay, that is, only the original function. doing.

  The distribution unit PB1 acquires the communication flowing through the transfer path in the communication device 1, determines whether there is field information (such as a flag) indicating that the communication is communication for virtual systems, and there is no field information. Then, the communication is passed to the transfer processing unit PB3. On the other hand, if there is field information, the distribution unit PB1 passes the communication to the transfer processing unit PB2.

  The field information is, for example, a VLAN tag. The field information may be set in a protocol empty field (IP option field or the like).

  The transfer processing unit PB3 performs counter processing, error check, transfer, and discard processing on the received communication, while the transfer processing unit PB2 also performs counter processing, error check, transfer, and discard processing. For example, a part of discarding and delaying processes are performed.

  The output unit K3 converts the signals from the transfer processing units PB2 and PB3 from an electrical signal to an optical signal or vice versa as necessary, and sends the signal to the optical fiber FB.

  That is, in the real communication (S13) that does not include field information, the communication is sent to the optical fiber FB via the distribution unit PB1, the transfer processing unit PB3, and the output unit K3.

  On the other hand, the virtual communication (S12) including field information is sent to the optical fiber FB via the distribution unit PB1, the transfer processing unit PB2, and the output unit K3.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of mounting virtual blocks on the control unit 10 of the communication device 1.

  For example, the control unit 10 includes a distribution unit 101 and instruction control units 102 and 103. The instruction control unit 102 is a virtual block, and has a function of interpreting and executing a program here. On the other hand, the instruction control unit 103 also has a function of interpreting and executing a program. However, unlike the instruction control unit 102 (virtual block), an instruction error and a processing clock limit cannot be generated by an instruction. That is, it has only the original function.

  The distribution unit 101 acquires the communication flowing through the transfer path in the communication device 1, determines whether there is field information indicating that the communication is for virtual use, and if there is no field information, the communication is performed. It passes to the instruction control unit 103. On the other hand, the distribution unit 101 passes the communication to the command control unit 102 if there is field information.

  The instruction control unit 103 interprets and executes the program according to the received communication, while the instruction control unit 102 similarly interprets and executes the program. However, in order to reflect the failure, for example, calculation error, processing Perform clock limit.

  That is, real communication (S 103) that does not include field information is sent to another transfer path in the communication device 1 via the distribution unit 101 and the command control unit 103.

  On the other hand, the virtual communication (S102) including the field information is sent to another transfer path in the communication apparatus 1 via the distribution unit 101 and the command control unit 102.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an implementation example of virtual blocks in the storage unit 12 of the communication device 1.

  For example, the storage unit 12 includes a sorting unit 121 and databases 122 and 123. The database 122 is a virtual block, and here has a function of storing setting information, routing information, and the like. On the other hand, the database 123 also has a function of storing setting information, routing information, and the like, but unlike the database 122 (virtual block), a memory error or routing information error cannot be generated by an instruction. That is, it has only the original function.

  The distribution unit 121 acquires the communication flowing through the transfer path in the communication device 1, determines whether there is field information indicating that the communication is for virtual system communication, and if there is no field information, performs communication. Pass to database 123. On the other hand, the distribution unit 121 passes the communication to the database 122 if there is field information.

  The database 123 reads and writes information according to the received communication, while the database 122 similarly reads and writes information. However, in order to reflect a failure, for example, a memory error or routing information error is reflected. generate.

  That is, real communication (S123) that does not include field information is sent to another transfer path in the communication device via the distribution unit 121 and the database 123.

  On the other hand, after the failure occurs, the virtual communication (S122) including the field information is sent to another transfer path in the communication device 1 via the distribution unit 121 and the database 122.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an apparatus having a part (control unit) that enables and disables a part having a virtual block.

  The communication device 1 in FIG. 6 further includes a control unit L1 with respect to the configuration of the communication device in FIG. In addition, the distribution unit K11 is configured to be in either a valid state or an invalid state. The control unit L1 receives an instruction to enable or disable the distribution unit K11 from the outside. The instruction indicates which part to be assigned to the sorting unit K11, and the control unit L1 transfers the instruction to the sorting unit K11 of the corresponding part. The distribution unit K11 that has received the instruction is in a state as instructed.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating state transition of the distribution unit.

  The distribution unit K11 maintains the valid state even if it receives an instruction to enable it in the valid state, and maintains the invalid state even if it receives the instruction to disable it in the invalid state. The distribution unit K11 transitions to an invalid state when receiving an instruction to invalidate in the valid state, and transitions to the valid state when an instruction to validate in the invalid state is received.

  Returning to FIG. 6, the operation when the distribution unit K11 is in an invalid state will be described.

  If the distribution unit K11 is in an invalid state, the distribution unit K11 distributes all signals to the real blocks regardless of whether or not field information is included (T101).

  Next, an operation when the distribution unit K11 is in the valid state will be described.

  The distribution unit K11 determines the presence / absence of field information in the signal when in a valid state, and distributes the signal to a real block when there is no field information (T102). On the other hand, when there is field information, the distribution unit K11 distributes the signal to the virtual block (T103).

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart and sequence diagram for the transition of the distribution unit from the invalid state to the valid state.

  When the control unit L1 of the communication device 1 receives an instruction to validate the sorting unit of a specific part from the outside, the control unit L1 specifies a part corresponding to the content (S21). An activation instruction is issued to the distribution unit K11 of the part K1 having the identified virtual block. The distribution unit K11 that has received the instruction shifts the state to the valid state (S25).

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart and sequence diagram for the transition of the distribution unit from the valid state to the invalid state.

  When the control unit L1 of the communication device 1 receives an instruction to invalidate the distribution unit of a specific part from the outside, the control unit L1 specifies a part corresponding to the content (S31).

An invalidation instruction is issued to the distribution unit K11 of the part K1 having the identified virtual block. The distribution unit K11 that has received the instruction shifts the state to the invalid state (S35).

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart of real system communication and virtual system communication.

  In the following description, reference is made to the case where a signal is composed of packets, but other transmission units such as frames and cells may be used.

  When a packet arrives at a part having a distribution unit, a real block, and a virtual block, it is determined whether or not field information for functioning the virtual block is included in the packet. That is, it is determined whether or not the packet has field information indicating that it should be transmitted to the virtual block (TT1). When there is no field information (TT1: NO), the packet is distributed to a real block (TT2). If the field information is present, the field information is determined according to the state of the distribution unit (TT3). When the distribution unit is in an invalid state (TT3: invalid state), the packet flows through the actual block (TT2). On the other hand, when the distribution unit is in the valid state (TT3: valid state), the packet is transferred to the virtual block, whereby the communication behaves according to the state of the virtual block (TT4). For example, the packet is discarded or delayed.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an input path for an instruction to place the distribution unit in the valid state or the invalid state.

  An instruction to set the distribution unit K11 to the valid state or the invalid state is first input to the control unit L1, and the instruction is input from, for example, a main signal port that inputs a signal to the distribution unit K11, and the control unit L1. Can receive this and transmit it to the distribution unit K11. Alternatively, the instruction can be input from the management port, and the control unit L1 can receive it and transmit it to the distribution unit K11. Alternatively, the instruction is performed by a switch (such as a dip switch), and the control unit L1 can read the state of the switch and transmit an instruction according to the state of the switch to the distribution unit K11.

  When an instruction is input from the main signal port, an independent instruction port is not required. It is preferable to use an authentication system in order to eliminate malfunctions and malicious operations caused by the user's main signal communication.

  When an instruction is input from the management port, there is an effect that the band of the main signal system is not consumed. Further, since the management port can be accessed only by a specific user, security is ensured.

  When an instruction is given by a switch, there is an effect that it is easy to grasp the state visually without consuming the band of the main signal system.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an input path of an instruction to change virtual block information.

  The communication device 1 in FIG. 12 is different from the configuration of the communication device in FIG. 6 in that the control unit L1 has a function of changing information on the virtual block. The operations of the distribution unit, the virtual block, and the real block are the same as those described so far and will not be described.

  When update information (information for changing a virtual block) is input from the outside, the control unit L1 gives the update information to the virtual block, thereby changing the information of the virtual block.

  The update information is input from, for example, a main signal port, a management port, or a switch, as in the input path of the instruction for setting the distribution unit in the valid state or the invalid state shown in FIG.

  When the virtual block can change the configuration by the parameter, the update information is, for example, a parameter different from the parameter set for the virtual block. Alternatively, the update information may be, for example, a program that rewrites part or all of the virtual block configured by executing the program.

  Therefore, by adopting such a configuration, it is possible to obtain an effect that the information of the virtual block can be arbitrarily changed rather than performing only a predetermined operation.

  In addition, you may comprise so that a distribution part can be made into an effective state or an invalid state, and the information of a virtual block can be changed with update information.

  In that case, by separating the input path of the instruction for enabling or disabling the distribution unit and the input path of the update information, for example, the former is from the switch and the latter is from the management port. Since information (addition, change, deletion, etc.) can be updated only for the block, the command information can be subdivided.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating that the parts having a plurality of virtual blocks of the communication apparatus 1 behave consistently in conjunction with each other.

  The communication device 1 in FIG. 13 includes a control unit P1, an input unit P3, an output unit P4, a communication unit P5, and a communication unit P6. Each communication part P5, P6 has a distribution part, a virtual block, and a real block. The operations of the distribution unit, the virtual block, and the real block are the same as those described so far and will not be described.

  In this communication apparatus, the communication unit P6 behaves in conjunction with the communication unit P5. That is, when an instruction to update the virtual block information of the communication unit P5 is input from the outside and the distribution unit of the communication unit P5 is valid and the virtual block is in a specific state, the distribution unit of the communication unit P6 is valid and The behavior of the virtual block corresponding to consistent behavior is selected.

  On the other hand, the validity / invalidity of each distribution unit can be controlled for each part, and thereby the behavior of the communication device in various states can be confirmed.

  Moreover, when selecting one virtual block in each communication part P5 and P6, you may make it change which virtual block is selected by the cooperation between site | parts.

  Although the communication unit has been described as an example in FIG. 13, the same operation can be performed in other parts having virtual blocks.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating that the communication device 1 has a function of storing virtual system information.

  The communication device 1 in FIG. 14 includes a control unit P1, a storage unit P2, an input unit P3, an output unit P4, and a communication unit P5. Each communication unit P5 includes a distribution unit, a virtual block, and a real block. The operations of the distribution unit, the virtual block, and the real block are the same as those described so far and will not be described.

  The memory | storage part P2 is provided with the memory area P21 which memorize | stores the information of the virtual block of the communication part P5, and the memory area P22 which memorize | stores the information of the real block of the communication part P5.

  The storage unit P2 of the communication device stores information on the virtual block of the communication unit P5 in the storage area P21. When an instruction to update the virtual block information of the communication unit P5 is input from the outside (T202), the control unit P1 accesses the storage area P21 (T203) and acquires difference information (T204). And the control part P1 gives difference information to the virtual block of the communication part P5, and updates a virtual block (T205).

  Therefore, by providing the information in the storage area P21 to the virtual block of the communication unit P5, it is possible to ensure the consistency of the state in the apparatus.

  In FIG. 14, the communication unit has been described as an example, but the same operation can be performed in other parts having virtual blocks.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a function of issuing virtual system information of the communication device 1 to the outside.

  The communication device 1 in FIG. 15 further includes a configuration in which the control unit P1 acquires information stored in the storage area P21 in response to a request from the outside and sends it out to the communication device in FIG. ing. In the figure, the components other than the control unit P1 and the storage unit P2 are not shown. The operations of the sorting unit, the virtual block, and the real block that are not shown in the figure are the same as those described so far.

  When a request is input from the outside (T301), the control unit P1 acquires information stored in the storage area P21 (T302), and sends the information to the outside (T303).

  In a communication device having such a configuration, such as a configuration in which a plurality of parts having virtual blocks are provided or a configuration in which a plurality of virtual blocks are provided in one part, the storage area P21 includes each virtual block. Information is stored. The control unit P1 acquires information on the virtual block designated by a request from the outside, and sends this information to the outside.

  Therefore, by sending the information in the storage area P21 to the outside in response to a request from the outside, alarms and information in the communication device are sent to the outside based on the status and information affected by the virtual block, such as update information and statistical information. It can be sent out. That is, the status and information of the virtual block can be transmitted to the outside.

  By the way, as described above, there is an operation confirmation method after changing the state of the communication device, for example, an operation confirmation method in a virtual failure state. For example, a confirmation command (ICMP or the like) from an external communication system or the like. ) Or by inputting a confirmation command (such as a show command) from the management port. In any case, in order to distinguish it from the confirmation of the real system, the existing method may be changed to a virtual system (for example, a separate command), or the existing method may be used as a virtual system. An instruction (such as displaying a virtual system table) may be given.

  Signal transmission to the outside at the time of a virtual failure. When a virtual system fails, TRAP, SYSLOG, etc. are transmitted in the same way as at the time of a real system failure. At that time, a TRAP, SYSLOG with a virtual system flag set is sent. Can be considered.

  Concerning use of the storage unit, convenience can be improved by storing the virtual system state (link down, delay, etc.) in the storage unit. That is, the operator may refer to the storage unit when confirming the failure state.

  Also, when there is a failure instruction in the virtual system, the difference between the failure state to be transferred by this failure instruction and the current virtual system state stored in the storage unit is calculated, and only the necessary virtual block is instructed. It is possible to give.

  Further, when a failure is instructed to the virtual system, TRAP and SYSLOG may be transmitted from the difference from the previous state of the virtual block stored in the storage unit.

  Although it is about prevention of malfunction of malfunction instruction, etc., when passing virtual malfunction instruction and malfunction information through the same route as user communication, an authentication system is used to eliminate malfunction and malicious operation due to user communication. It is preferable to do this.

  Moreover, an observation unit may be provided so that details (delay, partial discard, etc.) of a failure state generated in the virtual system can be confirmed.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart and a sequence diagram illustrating an example of transition of each part accompanying an instruction to a part having a virtual block.

  The management port 11 of the communication device 1 is a part that receives an instruction for configuration operation or the like. When an instruction to validate a distribution unit for a specific part and an instruction to update virtual block information are received from the outside, Forward to 10. The control unit 10 specifies a location corresponding to the instruction and specifies the update content (S61). After identification, the control unit 10 accesses the storage unit 12 (S63).

  The storage unit 12 of the communication device 1 manages, as DB (database) information, which location in the communication device 1 has a virtual block and which virtual block is in what state. When the notification is received, the DB information is referred to (S64), and it is confirmed whether or not the content of the notification is already reflected (S65). If the content of the notification is not reflected, the storage unit 12 replies to the control unit about the difference information between the instruction content and the DB information so that the content of the notification is reflected (S66). Then, the control unit P1 Based on the difference information, for example, an activation instruction is given to the distribution unit PB1 of the communication unit PB (S67).

  Such an instruction may be performed by communication of a main signal or a switch (such as a dip switch). As an example, a method of giving an instruction location and instruction content to an ICMP frame can be considered. In addition, the generation time of the instruction content may be instructed together with the instruction location and the instruction content, and the instruction content may be automatically generated at that time.

  The distribution unit PB1 that has received the instruction shifts the state to the valid state (S69). In addition, the control unit 10 issues an information update instruction to the transfer processing unit PB4 (hereinafter referred to as a virtual block) of the communication unit PB (S71). The virtual block updates its own information based on the instruction (S73).

  The virtual block sends an information update notification to the storage unit 12 of the communication device 1 (S81). This notifies that the information of the communication unit PB has been updated. When the storage unit 12 of the communication device 1 receives the information update notification, the storage unit 12 refers to the DB information (S83), and checks whether the content of the notification has already been reflected (S85). If the content of the notification is not reflected, the storage unit 12 updates the DB information so that the content of the notification is reflected (S87), and notifies the control unit 10 of the changed content at that time (S89). The control unit 10 determines whether or not the type of signal to the outside indicating the changed state of the communication unit PB is set (S91). If the corresponding signal type is set, the control unit 10 instructs the management port 11 to send the signal to the outside (S93). The management port 11 sends a signal to the outside as instructed (S95), and the processing for changing the virtual system is completed.

  If the notification contents are reflected in step S65 and step S85, or if the signal type is not set in step S91, the virtual system failure process is immediately completed.

  Next, an application example when a real block operates with parameters will be described.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of a communication apparatus according to this application example.

  The communication device 1 includes a control unit P1, a storage unit P2, an input unit P3, an output unit P4, and a communication unit P5. The input unit P3 and the output unit P4 are connected to the optical fibers FA and FB, respectively. The controller P1 corresponds to the parameter copying means of the present invention.

  The communication unit P5 includes a distribution unit, a virtual block, and a real block. The operations of the distribution unit, the virtual block, and the real block are the same as those described so far and will not be described.

  The storage unit P2 includes a real block parameter storage unit P201 that stores parameters that control the operation of the real block of the communication unit P5, and a virtual block parameter storage unit that stores parameters that control the operation of the virtual block of the communication unit P5. P202.

  Here, the distribution unit distributes all the signals to the real blocks regardless of whether or not the field information indicating the communication for the virtual system is included in the invalid state (T400).

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating examples of parameters stored in each real block parameter storage unit P201 and virtual block parameter storage unit P202, and changes in time series thereof. This figure also shows an example of parameters stored in the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 when there is no control unit P1, and changes in the time series thereof.

  As shown in the column of time t0, each of the real block parameter storage unit P201 and the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 initially has, for example, Vlan-IDs 1 to 20 which are identification information of 20 virtual LANs, Filter information “None” indicating whether or not to disconnect communication with the virtual LAN is stored.

  For example, as shown in the column of time t1, the operator of the communication apparatus 1 then adds Vlan-ID to each real block parameter storage unit P201 and virtual block parameter storage unit P202, and sets Vlan-ID to 100. And 50,000 Mac addresses Mac1 to 50000 are registered.

  However, since the number of Mac addresses in the real block parameter storage unit P201 automatically changes to reflect the number of communication devices in the network including the communication device 1, for example, 4,000,479 (Mac addresses Mac1 to Mac1). 4,000,479), that is, the number of communication devices becomes extremely large, and the communication on the network becomes unstable.

  Therefore, as shown in the column of time t2, the operator changes the filter information in the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 to “Yes” in order to stabilize the communication, so that the specific virtual LAN in the network is set. Is disconnected. As a result, the number of Mac addresses in the actual block parameter storage unit P201 is reduced to “876” (Mac addresses Mac1 to 876). For example, if communication is still unstable, other countermeasures can be taken.

  In this manner, in a situation where the number of Mac addresses in the real block parameter storage unit P201 automatically changes, the control unit P1 in FIG. 17 has a management port (both not shown) via a switch (such as a dip switch). From (T401) or by a communication signal via the input unit P3 (T402), an instruction for enabling the allocating unit and causing the virtual block to function is input.

  When such an instruction is input, the control unit P1 copies the parameters (Vlan-ID, Mac address, filter information) stored in the real block parameter storage unit P201 to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 (FIG. 17). , FIG. 18: T411).

  In some cases, the control unit P1 changes the parameter copied to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 according to the input instruction content (T413).

  Next, the control unit P1 activates the distribution unit (T415), and instructs the virtual block to use the parameter of the changed virtual block parameter storage unit P202 (T417).

  As a result, the distribution unit enters the valid state, distributes the signal included in the field information to the real block (T421), and distributes the signal including the field information to the virtual block (T423).

  Although not shown, the control unit P1 copies the parameter stored in the real block parameter storage unit P201 again to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 if an instruction is input again.

  As a result, as shown in the column of time t2 in FIG. 18, the parameters in the real block parameter storage unit P201 including the 876 Mac addresses are copied to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202. The parameter is changed.

  On the other hand, when there is no control unit P1, the number of Mac addresses remains “50,000” (Mac 1 to 50000) (see * in FIG. 18). Depending on the situation, these Mac addresses may be used. There is a possibility that a desired operation cannot be performed on the virtual block.

  However, by providing the control unit P1, the parameters of the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 follow the parameters of the real block parameter storage unit P201 by copying, and a desired operation can be performed on the virtual block according to the current situation. Can be made.

  Next, a further application example in the case where the real block operates with parameters will be described.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of a communication apparatus according to this application example.

  In the figure, two communication devices 1 (hereinafter referred to as communication devices 1A and 1B) are shown.

  Each communication device 1A, 1B includes a control unit P1, a storage unit P2, an input unit P3, an output unit P4, and a communication unit P5.

  The input unit P3 and the output unit P4 of the communication device 1A are connected to optical fibers FA and FB, respectively. The input unit P3 and the output unit P4 of the communication device 1B are connected to the optical fibers FB and FC, respectively.

  The storage unit P2 of each of the communication devices 1A and 1B includes a real block parameter storage unit P201 and a virtual block parameter storage unit P202.

  Here, the distribution unit of each of the communication devices 1A and 1B is in an invalid state, and distributes all signals to real blocks regardless of whether or not field information is included (T400).

  The control unit P1 of the communication apparatus 1A is connected to a distribution unit from a management port (both not shown) via a switch (such as a dip switch) (T401) or by a communication signal (T402) via an input unit P3. An instruction for enabling the virtual block to function is input.

  When such an instruction is input, the control unit P1 copies the parameters stored in the real block parameter storage unit P201 to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 (T411).

  Further, the control unit P1 changes the parameters copied to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 according to the input instruction content (T413).

  Next, the control unit P1 activates the distribution unit (T415), and instructs the virtual block to use the parameter of the changed virtual block parameter storage unit P202 (T417).

  As a result, the distribution unit enters the valid state, distributes the signal included in the field information to the real block (T421), and distributes the signal including the field information to the virtual block (T423).

  Next, the control unit P1 reads the parameters of the virtual block parameter storage unit P202, and controls the control unit P1 of the communication device 1B via the output unit P4 of the communication device 1A, the optical fiber FB, and the input unit P3 of the communication device 1B. (T431).

  As a result, the control unit P1 of the communication device 1B copies the parameters stored in the real block parameter storage unit P201 to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 (T432).

  Next, the control unit P1 changes the parameters copied to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 based on the parameters transmitted from the communication device 1A (T433).

  Next, the control unit P1 activates the distribution unit (T435), and instructs the virtual block to use the parameters of the changed virtual block parameter storage unit P202 (T437).

  As a result, the distribution unit enters the valid state, distributes the signal included in the field information to the real block (T441), and distributes the signal including the field information to the virtual block (T443).

  FIG. 20 is a diagram for describing an operation in a network including a plurality of communication devices having the same configuration as that of communication device 1A shown in FIG.

  Each of the communication devices A, B, and C has the same configuration as the communication device 1A shown in FIG. 17, and includes a real block parameter storage unit P201, a virtual block parameter storage unit P202, virtual ports PT1, PT2, It has PT3.

  FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of parameters stored in each real block parameter storage unit P201 and virtual block parameter storage unit P202 of the communication apparatus A, and changes in the time series thereof.

  As shown in the column of time t21, the actual block parameter storage unit P201 and the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 of the communication device A initially have, for example, Vlan-ID1 to 20 that are identification information of 20 virtual LANs. 360 pieces of Mac addresses Mac1 to 360, information indicating that there is no failure in each port (in the figure, for port PT3, “only presence or absence of failure of port PT3” is described) and routing tables RT1 to 4 are stored. ing.

  Although not shown, similar parameters (including routing tables RT1 to 4) are stored in each of the real block parameter storage unit P201 and the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 of the communication devices B and C.

  Thus, when the routing tables RT1 to 4 are stored in the real block parameter storage unit P201 and the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 of each of the communication devices A, B, and C, the signal has the following route: Will pass.

  That is, in FIG. 20, the signal transmitted to the communication device A has the routing tables RT1 to 4 stored in the real block parameter storage unit P201 and the virtual block parameter storage unit P202. First, it is transferred to the communication device B according to the routing tables RT1 to RT4 (T501).

  Similarly, the signal transferred to the communication apparatus B is transferred to, for example, a communication apparatus (not shown) according to the routing tables RT1 to 4 regardless of the presence / absence of field information (T501).

  Here, when the operator causes a pseudo failure in the port PT3 of the communication device A and the port PT1 of the communication device B and intentionally deletes the Mac address stored in the communication devices A and B (T511), FIG. As shown in the column of time t22, the actual block parameter storage unit P201 of the communication apparatus A reflects the failure of the port PT3 (the presence or absence of the failure of the port PT3 is “Yes”), and the Mac addresses Mac1 to 360 are also erased. (Mac address “−”).

  For example, the operator changes the routing tables RT1 to 4 of the actual block parameter storage unit P201 to the new routing tables RT15 to RT15 in the communication device A in order to transmit signals through the routes of the communication devices A, C, and B. Rewrite with 18.

  Here, it is assumed that an instruction corresponding to step T401 or T402 in FIG. 19 is transmitted to the communication apparatus A in FIG.

  Similarly to step T411 in FIG. 19, also in the communication apparatus A in FIG. 20, the parameters in the real block parameter storage unit P201 are copied to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202.

  As a result, as shown in the column of time t22 in FIG. 21, in the virtual block parameter storage unit P202, the failure of the port PT3 is reflected (the presence / absence of the failure of the port PT3 is “present”), and the Mac addresses Mac 1 to 360 are set. It is deleted (Mac address “−”), and the routing tables RT1 to RT4 are rewritten to the routing tables RT15 to RT18.

  Further, as in steps T415 and T417 in FIG. 19, the sorting unit is enabled and an instruction is given to the virtual block.

  Similarly to step T431 in FIG. 19, the communication device A transmits the parameters in the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 to the communication devices B and C here.

  As a result, as in step T432 of FIG. 19, in the communication apparatuses B and C, the parameters in the real block parameter storage unit P201 are copied to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202.

  Next, as in step T433 in FIG. 19, in the communication apparatuses B and C, the routing tables RT1 to 4 copied to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 are included in the parameters transmitted from the communication apparatus A. Rewritten to RT15-18.

  Thus, after the routing tables RT15 to 18 are written in the real block parameter storage unit P201 and the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 of each of the communication devices A, B, and C, signals including field information are as follows: Will take a difficult route.

  That is, since the routing table RT15-18 is stored in the virtual block parameter storage unit P202, the signal including the field information transmitted to the communication device A is transferred to the communication device C according to the routing tables RT15-18. (T502).

  Further, since the routing tables RT15 to RT18 are stored in the virtual block parameter storage unit P202, the signal transferred to the communication device C is transferred to the communication device B according to this routing table (T502).

  Further, since the routing table RT15-18 is stored in the virtual block parameter storage unit P202, the signal transferred to the communication device C is transferred to, for example, a predetermined communication device (not shown) according to the routing table ( T502).

  Here, for example, the signal indicated by reference numeral T501 in FIG. 20 is a signal that does not include field information, that is, a signal for user communication, while the signal indicated by reference numeral T502 is a signal that includes field information, that is, For example, it is a signal for confirming the influence of user communication.

  Therefore, a signal for confirming the influence of the user communication can be sent to a route different from the route of the signal of the user communication, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in confirming the influence of the user communication.

  For example, not only the route change as shown in FIG. 20 but also the route change as shown in FIG. 22 is possible.

  Here, the communication devices A, B, D, F, and H are used for normal user communication, while the communication devices C, E, and G are not normally used. For example, the communication device B , D, or F, if the port is used when a failure occurs, whether or not the communication devices C, E, and G operate normally (referred to as life or failure of the redundant path) cannot be changed. Can not be confirmed. Therefore, even if the communication devices C, E, and G do not operate normally, the communication devices C, E, and G may not be aware of it, and there is a possibility that user communication cannot be performed in the case of a port failure as described above.

  However, in this application example, the route can be changed freely, and it is possible to confirm whether the redundant route is active or not without affecting the user communication.

  FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining the operation in the network portion in which the number of communication apparatuses shown in FIG. 20 is four.

  In the same figure, it replaces with communication apparatus AC (FIG. 20), and communication apparatus AD is shown.

  If the distribution unit is invalid, the signal transmitted to the communication device A is distributed to the actual block regardless of the presence or absence of field information, and follows the routing table (not shown in this figure) that is a parameter of the parameter storage unit for the real block. And transferred to the communication device B (T601).

  If the distribution unit is invalid, the signal transferred to the communication device B is distributed to the actual block regardless of the presence or absence of field information, and follows the routing table (not shown in this figure) that is a parameter of the parameter storage unit for the actual block. The data is transferred to the communication device D (T601).

  On the other hand, the signal including the field information transmitted to the communication apparatus A is distributed to the virtual block if the distribution unit is valid, and the communication is performed according to the routing table (not shown in this figure) which is a parameter of the virtual block parameter storage unit. The data is transferred to the device B (T602).

  The signal including the field information transmitted to the communication device B is distributed to the virtual block if the distribution unit is valid, and the communication device D follows the routing table (omitted in this figure) that is a parameter of the virtual block parameter storage unit. (T602).

  On the other hand, in the communication device A, if the parameters (including the routing table) are not copied to the virtual block parameter storage unit, the signal including the field information transmitted to the communication device A is transmitted by the distribution unit (valid). After being allocated to the virtual block, the transmission destination becomes unknown.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 24, in the network image of the real block, the communication devices A to D are linked, whereas in the virtual block network image, the communication devices A to D are linked. And inconsistencies with each other.

  The network image of the real block does not change after that, but in the network image of the virtual block, first, for example, an instruction for networking is input to the communication device A (T701). This is an instruction corresponding to step T401 or T402 in FIG.

  Thereby, the communication apparatus A transmits the instruction to the communication apparatuses B to D (T702). This is a process corresponding to step T431 in FIG. For example, in transmitting this instruction, the routing table is transmitted and received, and the routing table is rewritten at the transmission destination.

  As a result, the network image of the real block and the network image of the virtual block are aligned with each other.

  FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an image relating to state transition of the real block parameter storage unit P201 and the virtual block parameter storage unit P202.

  As shown in the column (1) of FIG. 25, the state of the actual block parameter storage unit P201 is expressed as state A at the beginning (time t0). As a result of processing in the communication device, a change is made to the actual block parameter storage unit P201 (active change), or a change is made by an operator or the like (passive change). As shown in the column, the state transits to state A ′.

  As shown in the column (2) of FIG. 25, the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 is, for example, at the time (time t0), even if the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 is in the same state A as the real block parameter storage unit P201, As shown in FIG. 5, when the real block parameter storage unit P201 is in the state A ′, the real block parameter storage unit P201 and the real block parameter storage unit P201 are inconsistent.

  That is, at the beginning (time t0), when the state of operation of the real block and the virtual block is expressed as states a and b, as shown in the column of time t1, due to the state change of the real block parameter storage unit P201, However, the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 does not change. Therefore, the operation state of the virtual block remains in the state b ', and such a state of a and b' may be inconvenient.

  However, as shown in the column (3) of FIG. 25, by copying the parameters from the real block parameter storage unit P201 to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202, the two match. It is also possible to change the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 to change the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 to the state A ″. Even in this case, parameters that are not changed are It can be matched with the parameter storage unit P201.

  FIG. 26 is a configuration diagram of the communication device 1 when the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 is not provided.

  When receiving an instruction to update the virtual block information from the outside (T1001), the control unit P1 refers to the real block parameter storage unit P201 (T1002), and either of them is determined according to the parameters of the real block parameter storage unit P201. The virtual block information is rewritten (T1003, T1004), and the distribution unit is instructed to use the rewritten virtual block (T1005).

  That is, in this communication apparatus 1, based on the virtual block information update instruction, it is possible to refer to the real system information, update the virtual block information, and use the rewritten virtual block.

  FIG. 27 is a configuration diagram of the communication device 1 when it has a virtual block parameter storage unit P202.

  When receiving an instruction to update the virtual block information from the outside (T1001), the control unit P1 refers to the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 copied from the real block parameter storage unit P201 and updates the parameters (T1012). ) According to the parameters of the real block parameter storage unit P201, the information of any virtual block is rewritten (T1013, T1014), and the distribution unit is instructed to use the rewritten virtual block (T1015).

  That is, the communication apparatus 1 includes a virtual block parameter storage unit P202 that is a copy of the parameters of the real block parameter storage unit P201. In the virtual block parameter storage unit P202, information is updated based on an information update instruction to the virtual block.

  The virtual block parameter storage unit P202 can change the information without affecting the actual block parameter storage unit P201.

  The virtual block parameter storage unit P202 can be created only when necessary. Also, the execution of copying may be accompanied by a trigger from the outside of the apparatus, periodic execution, or a change in the real system.

  FIG. 28 shows the parameters of the real block parameter storage unit P201 and the virtual block parameter storage unit so that the virtual block can be changed based on the parameters of the real block parameter storage unit P201. It is a block diagram of the communication apparatus which has a function which judges the dependency of the parameter of P202 and gives a restriction | limiting to the parameter which the parameter storage part P202 for virtual blocks can take.

  Here, in order for the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 to change in a state that can be realistically changed, a range of possible values (dependency) for each parameter item of the real block parameter storage unit P201. ).

  That is, the dependency determination unit P203 is a part having a function for preventing the virtual block parameter storage unit P202 from being changed to a state that cannot be practically obtained.

  For example, it is practically impossible to change a port to which a cable is not connected to a state in which a signal can be transmitted, but it is virtually impossible. However, since the state of the virtual system is not necessarily expected, the dependency determination unit P203 determines (takes it as an unacceptable value).

  FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a communication device 1A having a virtual block parameter storage unit P202 and a virtual block (referred to as a virtual system in this figure) in which a change has occurred, and a communication device 1B having a virtual system that changes in accordance with this change. It is.

  In the example of FIG. 19, when a change occurs in the virtual system of the communication device 1 </ b> A, this is transmitted to the communication device 1 </ b> B via the optical fiber. Instead, a transmission means other than the optical fiber (for example, another Communication may be performed via a communication line (T1201). Note that such information transmission may be performed for a communication device that needs the information in the peripheral communication devices, and the communication device is not limited to the communication device adjacent to the communication device that is the transmission source. The same applies to the case where information is transmitted through an optical fiber.

  In the communication device 1B that has received such information transmission, the control unit P1 refers to the storage unit P2, updates the parameters if necessary (T1202), and determines any virtual block according to the parameters of the storage unit P2. Is rewritten (T1203, T1204), and the distribution unit is instructed to use the rewritten virtual block (T1205).

  30 and 31 are diagrams for explaining application examples after FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 30, there are the following methods for realizing a virtual operation in accordance with an actual operation.

  U1 Use parameters in the parameter storage unit for real blocks.

  U2 The parameters of the real block parameter storage unit are copied to the virtual block parameter storage unit.

  In addition to U3 and U2, the dependency determination unit for determining the dependency of parameters in the real block parameter storage unit and the virtual block parameter storage unit clarifies whether or not a virtual change is possible for each parameter item.

  That is, the dependency determination unit is a part having a function for preventing the virtual block parameter storage unit from being changed to a state that cannot be practically obtained.

  As shown in FIG. 31, based on the definition of the virtual system in this patent, it is possible to freely change without being trapped by the state of the real system, but it is necessary to be able to suppress changes that are not common sense. There is.

  As a countermeasure, a dependency determination unit is provided, and the dependency determination unit determines a range of values that the virtual system can take.

FIG. 31 shows the following.
The site | part I can take the state of AC.
Case A: When the real system is in state A, the virtual system can take states A to C.
Case B: When the real system is in the state B, the virtual system can take only the state B.
There are three examples of existing techniques for instructing a desired operation to a communication device so as not to affect user communication and confirming the influence or the like due to the operation.

  In the existing technology 1, a communication device similar to a communication device through which user communication passes is simulated by a simulator and a desired operation is confirmed.

  The existing technology 2 physically constructs a communication device similar to a communication device through which user communication passes and confirms a desired operation.

  In the existing technology 3, a communication device through which user communication passes is logically divided inside to confirm a desired operation.

  Although each existing technique can confirm a desired operation, there are mainly the following problems.

  Since the existing technology 1 is a program, an unexpected event cannot be simulated. For example, the simulation cannot be performed if the following unknown defects exist.

(1) There is a malfunction in the timer of the communication device, and the switching state transition associated with the desired operation does not occur. (2) There is a malfunction in the counter of the communication device, and the counter that should be counted is not counted. .

  In the existing technology 2, since the communication devices are physically different, the exact operation of the desired operation cannot be confirmed when there is an individual difference (such as a defect). For example, it cannot be confirmed if either device is:

(1) There is a malfunction in the timer of the communication device, and the switching state transition associated with the desired operation does not occur. (2) There is a malfunction in the counter of the communication device, and the counter that should be counted is not counted. .

  In the existing technology 3, the state of the desired operation that can occur and the location where it occurs are limited. The state of the desired operation is only an operation that can be logically caused (for example, a function stop), and the occurrence location can be designated only at a location that can be logically divided (logical port, CPU, etc.)

  FIG. 32 is a table for comparing the communication apparatus according to the present embodiment and the problem solving methods of the above three existing technologies.

  In order to facilitate comparison, failures in specific parts are taken as examples of desired operations and are summarized in a table.

  As described in the overview column, the existing technology 1 is to simulate a similar communication device with a simulator, and the existing technology 2 is to construct another set of similar communication devices physically. The existing technique 3 logically divides the communication device internally.

  On the other hand, the communication apparatus according to the present embodiment is provided with a virtual block in the communication apparatus.

  As described in the column of accuracy of operation at the time of failure, first, the existing technology 1 can cause a failure only in a programmed range. In addition, an unexpected event of a communication device through which user communication passes cannot be reflected. The existing technology 2 cannot reflect the operation at the time of failure of the communication device through which the user communication passes when the communication device has individual differences (failures, etc.) to the test communication device. Since the existing technology 3 is the same communication device, there is no need to consider individual differences, but the two logics pass through different transfer paths, so there is a possibility that the operation at the time of failure is different.

  On the other hand, since the communication apparatus according to the present embodiment is the same communication apparatus and passes through the same transfer path except for the virtual block that causes the failure, it is possible to confirm an accurate operation at the time of the failure.

  As described in the column of the degree of freedom of the failure location, first, the existing technique 1 can set an arbitrary failure by a program. The existing technology 2 can cause a failure if it can be caused manually. For example, although a port failure can occur, a failure cannot be caused at a location that cannot be manually manipulated such as a transfer path (backplane) inside the apparatus. The existing technology 3 can specify only the fault location that can be logically divided. For example, a logical port failure can occur, but a physical port failure cannot occur.

  On the other hand, the communication device according to the present embodiment can cause a failure at any location in the device by arranging a virtual block at a location where the failure may occur.

  As described in the column of the degree of freedom of failure state, first, the existing technique 1 can set an arbitrary failure state by a program. Existing technology 2 can set the failure state if it can be caused manually. For example, a port can be divided, but a failure such as a delay cannot occur. The existing technology 3 can only cause a logical failure state (for example, a function stop) that can be caused artificially.

  In contrast, the communication device according to the present embodiment discards and delays the virtual block of the communication unit, the calculation error in the virtual block of the control unit, the processing clock limit, the memory error in the virtual block of the storage unit, and the routing information error. It is possible to generate various failures by providing a function for generating the above.

  In addition, (circle), (triangle | delta), and x in a table | surface show the grade of an effect, and are set to (circle), (triangle | delta), and x from the one where an effect is high. In addition, the solid line in the image diagram indicates user communication, and the broken line indicates communication for checking operation at the time of failure.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, a virtual block that causes a virtual failure (discard, partial discard, delay, etc.) in a communication device is arranged, and real system communication and virtual system communication are identified. In addition, by providing a mechanism for allocating to virtual blocks, it is possible to confirm the operation of various failure locations in various failure situations without affecting user communication after solving the problems of the existing technology.

  It is very useful to be able to confirm the operation at the time of failure without stopping the communication of the user in the actual network operated by the communication carrier.

  Note that the present invention is effective in performing the failure operation as described above, which is different from the existing technology. There is a similar difference in execution, and it is effective.

FA, FB, FC ... Optical fiber K1 ... Parts having virtual blocks K11, PB1, 121 ... Distribution unit K12 ... Virtual block K13 ... Real block K2 ... Input unit K3 ... Output unit L1, P1, 10 ... Control unit P2, 12 ... storage unit P3 ... input unit P4 ... output unit P5, P6, PB ... communication unit PB2, PB3 ... transfer processing unit P201 ... real block parameter storage unit P202 ... virtual block parameter storage unit 1, 1A, 1B, A- H: Communication device 11 ... Management port 102, 103 ... Command control unit 122, 123 ... Database

Claims (8)

A communication device,
A real block having at least some of the functions of the communication device;
Including at least one virtual block that performs operations that may occur in the function;
Obtain information flowing through the route in the communication device toward the real block, determine whether the information includes field information for causing the virtual block to function, and if there is no field information, the information A distribution unit that distributes the information to one of the virtual blocks when there is field information .
The sorting unit can be in a valid state or an invalid state,
When the distribution unit is in an invalid state, the information is distributed to the real block regardless of whether the acquired information includes the field information,
The distribution unit determines whether or not the acquired information includes the field information when it is in a valid state. If there is no field information, the distribution unit distributes the information to the real block, while there is field information. In this case, the information is distributed to one of the virtual blocks.
A plurality of parts having the real block, the virtual block, and the sorting unit,
The communication device , wherein the distribution unit can be in an effective state or an invalid state in conjunction with each other . Before SL each portion includes a plurality of virtual blocks,
The communication apparatus according to claim 1, wherein which the virtual block is selected for each site, characterized in that vary interlocking between the sites. Communication apparatus according to claim 1, wherein further comprising an information storage unit which stores the acquiring information about the virtual block from the virtual block. The communication apparatus according to claim 3 , further comprising means for acquiring information stored in the information storage unit and sending the information to the outside of the communication apparatus in response to a request from the outside. The communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , further comprising: a unit that gives update information given from outside to the virtual block to change a function of the virtual block. A parameter storage unit for a real block in which parameters for controlling the operation of the real block are stored;
A parameter storage unit for virtual block in which parameters for controlling the operation of the virtual block are stored;
Parameter copying means for copying the parameters stored in the real block parameter storage unit to the virtual block parameter storage unit, and updating the virtual block information in accordance with the parameters of the real block parameter storage unit communication apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it has a function of. Based on the parameters of the real block parameter storage unit, the parameters of the real block parameter storage unit and the virtual block parameter storage unit 7. The communication apparatus according to claim 6 , further comprising a function of determining dependency and limiting a parameter that can be taken by the virtual block parameter storage unit. If the parameter stored in the virtual block parameter storage unit is changed, the parameter is transmitted to the peripheral communication device along with the change, and stored in the virtual block parameter storage unit provided in the communication device. The communication apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the communication apparatus has a function of changing parameters according to the transmitted parameters.

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