(PICTURE)(PICTURE) (PICTURE)Europäis hes Patentamt
(1 9) (PICTURE) European Patent Offi_e
(PICTURE) Offi_e euroPéen des brevets (1 1 ) E _ O 49O 624 B_
(1 2) EUROPEAN PATENT _PECl FICATlON
(45) Date of pUbliCation and mention (51 ) _nt C_.6_. _O6F _ 5J_ 6
of the grant of the patent_.
14.O4.1999 Bulletin 1999l15
(21 ) Application number_. 91311 452.6
(PICTURE)(22) Date of filing_. 1 O.12.1991
(54) Graphi_al _onfiguration of data pro_essing networks
Graphische Konfiguration eines Datenverarbeitungsnetzwerkes
(PICTURE)(PICTURE)
Configuration graphique d'un réseau informatique
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_ Ote'_ It In nIne mOnt S rOm t e PU ICatIOn O t e mentIOn O t e 9rant O t e UrOPean Patent_ anY PerSOn maY 9IVe
o nOtiCe tO the EUrOpean Patent OffiCe Of OppOSitiOn tO the EUrOpean patent granted. NOtiCe Of OppOSitiOn Shall be filed in
ii a written reasoned statement. It shall not be deemed to have been filed until the opposition fee has been paid. (Art.
w (PICTURE)99(1 ) European Patent Convention). Printed by Jouve, 75OO1 PARIS (FR)
1 EP O 49O 624 B1 2
Des_ription greater numbers of nodes, diverse communication pro-
tocols, and different functional nodes, together with the
[OOO1] The present invention relates generally to the bridging of multiple local area networks into wide area
configuration of data processing networks. More partic- networks, has created an environment in which there is
ularly, the invention defines a computer system and 5 a need for graphically depicting networks having numer-
method of use for graphically defining a network and de- ous nodes, for interactively specifying the connecting
riving configuration parameters for the node terminals protocols between the nodes, and for automating the
of the network. configuration of each workstation in the network based
[OOO2] The configuration of multiple personal comput- upon its capabilities, the nodes of operation defined for
ers and workstations into networks, and with increasing 1O the workstation, and the protocols specified for such
frequency hierarchically ordered sets of networks, pro- nodes of operation.
vides communication and information retention resourc- [OOO7] Hewlet-Packard Journal, vol. 41 , no. 2, 1 99O,
es not available to independent workstations. Conse- pages 6O-65 describes a graphics based user interface
quently, there exists a significant trend toward network for users of network management applications. The pre-
use of workstations. Unfo_unately, the industy remains 15 ambles to the independent claims are based on this doc-
fluid as to network protocols and includes as prevailing ument.
and representative communication networks Ethernet, [OOO8] According to a first aspect of the present inven-
Token-Ring, PC Network (trademark of l BM Corpora- tion, there is provided a system for generating configu-
tion), l E EE 8O2.2, Netbios, X.25, SDLC, and APPC. Fur- ration parameters for a network of multiple workstations,
thermore, given that the network users expect database 2O comprising_. means for graphically depicting a network
capability in addition to communication capability, data- of three or more nodes on a workstation display using
base requester and database server functions in work- icon-type objects for the nodes; characterised by further
stations and bridges are similarly subject to particulari- comprising_. means for graphically depicting path and
zation in the course of defining the composite network. protocol connections relating the network nodes on the
Network definition is even further complicated by the 25 workstation display using graphical representations
common use of multiple communication boards interfac- which relate to selected icon-type objects; means for a
ing distinctly differing networks in one or more of the user of the workstation display to interactively manipu-
node workstations. Iate by drag-drop manipulation the icon-type objects and
[OOO3] The configuration of the individual worksta- connections as depicted on the workstation display; and
tions in networks to match communication and database 3O means for deriving network configuration parameters
protocols has routinely been the responsibility of a net- from information represented by the combination of the
work administrator. As the number of network nodes, the depicted icon-type objects and connections; and means
number of internetwork bridges and variety of network for distributing the network configuration parameters.
protocols increase, it has become apparent that the net- [OOO9] According to a second aspect of the present
work administrator needs computer assistance to define 35 invention, there is provided a method of generating con-
and revise networks, and to generate the appropriate figuration parameters for a network of workstations,
configuration files for each of the workstations within the comprising the steps of_. generating icons for each of
network. three or more first network objects on a graphical video
[OOO4] U.S. Patent 4,864,492 recognized the need for display; and characterised by further comprising_. posi-
assisting a network administrator. The patent thus pro- 4O tioning by drag-drop manipulation icons for said first net-
vides a system and method for applying a knowledge work objects; generating graphical representations of
based expert system to the creation of configuration pa- paths and protocols connecting the first network objects
rameters individualized to the workstations of complex on the video display; generating configuration parame-
networks. The knowledge of the expert system is used ters for configuring devices in a physical network as de-
to provide a menu and control the selections available 45 fined by a first combination of network objects and con-
to the network administrator. nections; and distributing the configuration parameters
[OOO5] Another reference of some relevance is U.S. to the respective devices in the physical network.
Patent 4,942,54O. The subject matter in that patent re- [OO1 O] The present invention provides a system and
Iates to creating and selecting a communication path be- method of operation by which a network administrator
tween a user's terminal and a destination terminal by 5O can, as a first feature, graphically depict a network by
selecting the communication parameters from a scrol- defining a multiplicity of workstation nodes with respec-
Iable menu. Graphical representations of the terminals tive hardware and operating system characteristics, can
and path are depicted in response to different menu se- then define the protocols of the communication paths
Iections. Though network usage is noted, the teachings between the network workstations, and based upon
relate to the definition of a communication path between 55 such network of workstations and communication path
a pair of terminals, namely, between the user's local ter- constraints can thereafter generate configuration pa-
minal and a single remote terminal. rameters for the operating systems of the respective
[OOO6] The increased prevalence of networks with workstations. A further feature of the invention provides
2
3 EP O 49O 624 B1 4
for the automated distribution of such network worksta- operating system and running the Token-Ring Network
tion configuration parameters as an element of config- Bridge Program application program, also available
uring the network depicted by graphical representation. from l BM Corporation. It should be apparent that repre-
A further variation of the invention allows the configura- sentative real world networks would include a signifi-
tion manager to switch the nodes of operation defined 5 cantly greater number of workstations nodes, connec-
for the network, for example between a communication tions and associated network protocols.
node and a database node, and thereupon selectively [OO1 9] In the context of the network depicted in Fig.
redefine the workstation and communication path char- 1 , the burden of the network administrator is to configure
acteristics for the combined modes of operation. The each of the workstations by prescribing and individually
network parameters are capable of being stored, re- 1O loading parameters such as node name, node operating
called, redefined and retransmitted with relative ease by system type, node machine type, node address, and
graphical manipulation. available communication protocols suitable to accom-
[OO1 1] The present invention may be embodied in a plish the defined database requester, LAN requester,
system comprising a known computer set up to operate database server, LAN server or network bridge func-
according to a novel program. 15 tions attributed to such workstation node within the net-
[OO1 2] These and other features of the invention will work. As the number and diversity of the workstations
be understood and appreciated with greater specificity and functions increase, the complexity of the network
upon considering the detailed description of a preferred and appropriate configuration definition increase expo-
embodiment given by way of example only and with ref- nentially. As the variety of hardware types, operating
erence to the accompanying drawings. 2O systems, protocols and modes of operation increase,
menu driven tabulated enty of WAN information is error
(PICTURE) prone even with the assistance of an expert system. In
part this can be attributed to the fact that the network
[OO1 3] Fig. 1 schematically depicts a network environ- administrator is not provided with a dynamically respon-
ment relating to a use of the invention. 25 sive visual representation of the interactions between
[OO1 4] Fig. 2 schematically depicts a video display im- network nodes, connections, protocols and modes of
age of a network node and a related dialog window. operation.
[OO1 5] Figs. 3 and 4 schematically depict video dis- [OO2O] The present invention introduces the use of
play images at differing stages of network definition. graphical representation to define network elements in
[OO1 6] Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a video display 3O the course of deriving configuration parameters. First,
image of the network including a dialog window suitable workstations within the network are graphically depicted
to save network configuration information. as nodes having prescribed hardware operating system
[OO1 7] Figs. 6-2O contain flow diagrams representing resources, and communication features. The graphical-
different functions available to a user of the present in- Iy depicted connection of the nodes is overlayed, but on-
vention. 35 Iy following a validation that the selected connections
[OO1 8] Fig. 1 schematically depicts an extended net- are functionally compatible with the previously specified
work, which has been simplified for purposes of illustrat- node characteristics. For instance, and with reference
ing the principles of the invention, composed of two local to Fig. 1 , the absence of a LAN server operating system
area networks, individually having different forms of in node 7 would preclude the designation of workstation
workstations, which are joined through a network 4O 7 as a LAN server to workstation 4. Node 7 can still have
bridge. The composite network, often referred to as a the resources to provide database server functions for
wide area network (WAN), includes a token-ring local workstations 4 and 6.
area network (LAN) at 1 and a PC Network LAN (PC [OO21] Fig. 2 depicts an early stage in a preferred use
Network is a trademark of l BM Corporation), generally of the invention. The illustration presents an image as
at 2, communicating through network bridge 3. Token- 45 would appear on a video display of the workstation used
ring LAN 1 is shown to have three nodes, including da- by the network administrator. The screen includes a
tabase and LAN requester node 4, database requester workspace pane, generally at 8, a workstation/commu-
node 6, and database and LAN server node 7. The nication link device/data storage device selection pane,
nodes are preferably configured with l BM brand PS/2 generally at 9, and a network configuration and protocol
(trademark of l BM Corporation) workstations having ap- 5O definition pane, generally at 1 1 .
propriate OS/2 (trademark of l BM Corporation) operat- [OO22] The depiction in Fig. 2 also includes a window
ing system programs for accomplishing the prescribed 1 2 overlapping the workspace, node selection, and con-
functions. LAN 2 is shown to have a single node data- nection selection panes. Window 1 2 is the dialog win-
base requester, again preferably configured with a PS/ dow associated with workstation 1 3, a workstation
2 workstation having the appropriate database request- 55 which was selected from the choices in pane 9 and
er OS/2 operating system. Network bridge 3, which joins placed in workspace 8 for purposes of specifying one
the two LANs and thus creates the WAN, is preferably node of a network. Note that the node dialog window 1 2
configured with a PS/2 workstation employing a DOS is used to specify the characteristics of the node in terms
3
5 EP O 49O 624 B1 6
of machine type, node type and data link card (DLC) ca- represents the relatively all inclusive combination of AP-
pability. As embodied, the dialog window 1 2 provides for PC, SQL LOO, and netbios protocol capability network.
name and address defaults together with resources for Again, it should be clearly evident that a network admin-
describing two distinct data link cards. istrator is burdened with an inordinate selection not only
[OO23] The invention is preferably practised using a 5 as to the node functions but now also as to the media
PS/2 workstation having an OS/2 operating system and of connection and communication between the nodes.
an l BM brand mouse pointing and control device. Using [OO27] According to the preferred system and method
such mouse, the network administrator selects the of the present invention, the administrator selects icons
workstation icon 1 3 from pane 9 and places it into work representing diverse workstation capabilities and inter-
space 8 to indicate a node in the network. Once the di- 1O connects such workstation nodes by selecting commu-
alog information for window 1 2 has been entered by the nication protocols. The nodes and connections are
administrator, the functional characteristics of node 1 3 graphically depicted by icons and connecting lines or ar-
are established. row patterns. The network can be manipulated as need-
[OO24] Fig. 3 illustrates the image of the screen at a ed and is particularized by dialog windows with broad
later stage in the definition of the network. At this stage 15 default capability. As depicted in Fig. 5, by the presence
an additional workstation 1 4 as well as database server of window 37, the network configuration information can
1 6 have been added to the network being defined. Fig. be stored and subsequently recalled for selecting refine-
3 also illustrates the commencement of a connection to ment. The invention also contemplates a spreadsheet
be defined between workstation 1 4 and database server interface for very large networks, to permit easy replica-
1 6. A connection dialog window is not necessary in that 2O tion of corresponding node functions and connection
the connection parameters are derivable by matching protocols. Direct transformation between spreadsheet
the connection network selected from pane 1 1 to the link parameters and graphical representations is readily ac-
card capabilities ascribed to each workstation node. The complished by known transformation programs and
three node network depicted in Fig. 4 corresponds to methods.
the token-ring LAN identified at 1 in Fig. 1 . 25 [OO28] As a further refinement of the invention, the
[OO25] Pane 9 in Fig. 4 includes icons suitable to se- node and connection characteristics are preferably val-
Iect an OS/2 operating system database requester idated at the time they are specified in the workstation
workstation 1 7, an OS/2 operating system database used by the network administrator. Such validation will
server workstation 1 8, an OS/2 operating system data- likely include a comparison of workstation resources
base requester and server workstation 1 9, a DOS data- 3O and network requirements, a confirmation of unique-
base requester workstation 21 , an OS/2 or DOS oper- ness in node addresses and names, a verification of
ating system requester (whichever is booted) worksta- consistency between machine types and node functions
tion 22, a DOS requester with OS/2 operating system ascribed thereto, and a comparison of connection pro-
database server workstation 23, an OS/2 operating sys- tocols to workstation card functionality. Systematic and
tem requester and server with DOS requester worksta- 35 automated validation avoids the common prior experi-
tion 24, and a ''no function'' overlay 26. The ''no function'' ence of discovering configuration errors after configur-
overlay icon identifies nodes without specific functional- ing all the workstations and enabling the network.
ity in the network mode, e.g. , communication or data- [OO29] Preferably validation extends to the whole of
base, being defined. Such a diversity of node capability the network, thereby including all nodes and connec-
alone suggests a monumental effort for a network ad- 4O tions. Validation should be performed at the earliest op-
ministrator not having the resources of the present in- portunity, e.g., byvalidating the structure of a node when
vention. the node name is defined or by validating that two nodes
[OO26] The communication protocols available to link can communicate with a given protocol when the con-
the node workstations are similarly diverse. The icons nection is defined. Thus, the validation process is dis-
representing the various forms of connection protocol 45 tributed among the operations which can be pe_ormed
are depicted in pane 1 1 of Fig. 4. Icon 27 represents a and invoked when first feasible. Validation also applies
no connection mode of operation, and invokes the mode to the generation of configuration files, performed to en-
use when selecting and dragging node icons from pane sure that an installation would be successful if undertak-
9 into workspace pane 8. Connection icon 28 represents en.
a SQL LOO communication LAN. The APPC (advance 5O [OO3O] The invention also contemplates the creation
program to program communication) network repre- and ensuing distribution of the configuration files to the
sented by icon 29 corresponds to an l BM Corporation respective node workstations. The comprehensive def-
SNA communication network. The network of icon 31 inition of the complete network, including a wide area
represents the combined capability of the APPC and the network, allows for the immediate generation of config-
SQL LOO protocols. lcon 32 corresponds to a netbios 55 uration files for each of the node workstations. Files are
network, while network icon 33 represents a network related to workstation directories. In a network having a
combining SQL LOO with netbios. Icon 34 represents a requester/server capability, the present program and
network having APPC combined with netbios. Icon 36 process contemplates the automated and direct distri-
4
7 EP O 49O 624 B1 8
bution of configuration files from the workstation of the presence of a workstation which lacks the resources to
network administrator. In the absence of such LAN re- operate as a functional node within-the context of the
quester/server capability, floppy disks are generated for mode being defined. For instance, as a first mode the
each network workstation. Thereafter, installation into network can be defined in terms of communications ca-
each workstation becomes fairly mundane. 5 pability. Thereafter, the same network of workstations
[OO31] The network topology storage and recollection can be redefined for purposes of database functionality.
feature ofthe present invention provides the networkad- Thus, some nodes can be inoperative in one orthe other
ministrator with the resources to update the network as network modes. The noted icon is used to identify to the
changes occur in the node functions or connection pro- networkadministrator and program the nodes which are
tocols. New configuration files are thereafter installed 1O inoperative to the mode under consideration.
manually or via the LAN requester/server distribution [OO36] Fig. 1 9 sets forth the operations by which
method described above. The invention contemplates nodes in the workspace panel are connected according
that such updates be selectively limited to only those of to defined protocols. Fig. 2O relates to the operations
the workstations within the networkwhich have had con- involved in modifying a previously defined network, and
figuration changes. Again, automated comparison in the 15 to translations between local and wide area network de-
context of exceptional workstation and connection pro- pictions.
tocol diversity reduces reconfiguration delays and the [OO37] The program used in the present embodiment
likelihood of errors. of the invention is further defined below by pseudo code
[OO32] Flow diagrams representing the dominant fea- of a form and content suitable for one of skill in the art
tures of a program to implement the method to which 2O to derive source code to implement the operations as
the invention pertains are depicted in the succession of depicted by the flow diagram and video display screen
Figs. 6-2O. The letter ''A'' within a circle symbolizes a images.
program state in which a user input is being sought. Text START PROGRAM
adjacent such symbols in a starting location describes
the command provided bythe userto initiate the ensuing 25 1 . Load in language specific files
operation. Such commands are derivatives of the men- 2. Load in options files
us appearing at the headings of the screen images de- 3. Initialize all graphics variables, and display start-
picted in Figs. 2-5, or can be invoked by user manipu- ing screen.
Iation of the keyboard or mouse. The features of the flow 4. Gather user input.
diagrams will be described briefly in the ensuing para- 3O 5. Case (input) is_.
graphs.
[OO33] Fig. 6 relates to the start of the program. Fig. A. Exit from program_.
7 involves a transition to an OS/2 Extended Edition Ver-
sion 1 .2 operating system Presentation Manager pro- 1 . Exit and close up files.
gram routine as one might invoke to scroll, move or re- 35
size a window. Fig. 8 illustrates the sequence involved B. Scroll, resize or move a window_.
in saving a network depiction in a nonvolatile memory
file, while Fig. 9 relates to the recall of such previously 1 . Scroll, resize or move a window.
saved network data file. Fig. 1 O relates to the selection
of a node icon from the pane 9 (Fig. 4). Fig. 11 relates 4O C. Save a network menu item_.
to the generation of configuration files for a networkthat
has been defined, including the automated installation 1 . Put up file dialog to select a file.
thereof for networks having the requisite LAN requester/ 2. If file selected...
SerVer reSOUrCeS.
[OO34] The flow diagram in Fig. 1 2 depicts the opera- 45 A. If that file already exists...
tions relating to the definition of a node within the work-
space pane, and as such includes both its placement 1 . Ask if user wants to overwrite.
and functional dialog activity. Figs. 1 3-1 6 relate to the 2. If so, write new topology file.
view, delete, dialog, and save/restore menu options.
Fig. 1 7 relates tothe operations by which default param- 5O B. Else...
eters are defined.
[OO35] Fig. 1 8 depicts the operations of the program 1 . Write the topology file.
to replicate the network nodes for purposes of creating
other nodes with similar properties and networkconnec- D. Restore a network menu item_.
tions, e.g., a database mode network versus a commu- 55
nication mode network. A second,network , substantial- 1 . Put up file dialog to select a file.
Iy coextensive with the existing network is displayed. 2. If file selected...
This is also where icon 26 (Fig. 4) is used to identify the 5
9 EP O 49O 624 B1 1 O
A. Clear the current network(s). B. If all data items entered OK...
B. Load the new network(s) into mem-
ory. 1 . If data accepted by user...
C. Display the new network(s). 5 A. Put new node on screen. Add
E. Generate configuration files menu item_. to data structure.
1 . Generate all necessay files for all work- J. Change view menu item_.
stations.
2. If using LAN distribution... 1O 1 . Change the screen view to the selected
VleW.
A. Send files over LAN to proper work-
stations. K. Delete menu item_.
B. Run a remote program on each
workstation to install the files. 15 1 . Delete current node/connection from
C. Each workstation must be rebooted screen memory.
to use changes. L. View a node/connection menu item_.
3. Else... 2O 1 . Put up view node/connection dialog.
A. Create one diskette for each work-
station. M. One of the default items menu items_.
B. Put each diskette into proper work-
station. 1 . Put proper default dialog box.
C. Run a program to install files at each 25 2. lf data changed...
workstation.
D. Each workstation must be rebooted A. If data is OK...
to use changes. 1 . Change the default values.
F. Click on a node or connection in the right 3O
pane_. N. One of the options menu items_.
1 . Make that node or connection the ''cur- 1 . Put up proper option dialog box.
rent'' one (highlight it). 2. If data changed...
35
G. Click on an icon below the line in the left A. If data is OK...
pane_. 1 . Change the option values.
1 . Change the connection mode to that
mode. 4O O. Save options menu item_.
H. Drag an icon from above the line in the left 1 . Write options to options file.
pane_. P. Restore options menu item_.
1 . lf icon ends up in right pane... 45 1 . Read in and change options from op-
A. If all data items are auto-defaulted... tions file.
1 . Put new node on screen. Add to Q. Drag a node in the right pane_.
data structure. 5O 1 . If in a connection mode...
B. Else... A. Draw a rubber band line.
2. Goto main item l. B. If end location is in a different
55 node...
l. Create a node menu item_. 1 . If connection is valid...
A. Put up the create node dialog. 6
1 1 EP O 49O 624 B1 1 2
A. Make and draw the con- and connection paths are capable of exhibiting selec-
nection. tively diverse functionality. The network can be validated
during design and subject to automated distribution as
2. Else. .. configuration files to respective network workstations.
5 The network topology can be retained for subsequent
A. Drag node to new location. revision and is subject to individualized configuration by
B. Fix up screen image. mode, such as communication and database.
[OO39] Though the invention has been described and
R. Double click a node/connection in right illustrated by way of specific embodiments, the invention
pane_. 1O should be understood to encompass the full scope of
any structures and practices defined by the claims set
1 . If in Wide Area Network View and click forth hereinafter.
on a node.. .
A. Switch to a view of the selected 15 __ai_g
node. 1 . A system for generating configuration parameters
2. Else. .. for a network of multiple workstations, comprising_.
means for graphically depicting a network of
A. Put up modify node/connection dia- 2O three or more nodes on a workstation display using
Iog. icon-type objects for the nodes;
B. If data is changed and is valid.. . characterised by further comprising_.
1 . Modify node/connection. means for graphically depicting path and pro-
2. Change memoy/screen image. 25 tocol connections relating the network nodes
on the workstation display using graphical rep-
S. Modify menu item_. resentations which relate to selected icon-type
objects;
1 . Goto item R.2.A means for a user of the workstation display to
3O interactively manipulate by drag-drop manipu-
T. Copy menu item_. Iation the icon-type objects and connections as
depicted on the workstation display; and
1 . If current item is a node. . . means for deriving network configuration pa-
rameters from information represented by the
A. Put up the copy node dialog. 35 combination of the depicted icon-type objects
B. If data entered OK. . . and connections_, and
means for distributing the network configura-
1 . If all data is auto defaulted.. . tion parameters.
A. Create the copies and con- 4O 2. The system recited in Claim 1 , further comprising
nections. means for validating connections by comparing at-
B. Update the screen and tributes of defined network nodes.
memoy. 3. The system recited in Claim 1 or 2, wherein the
2. Else. .. 45 means for distributing the network configuration pa-
rameters sends those parameters to physical de-
A. Put up one dialog for each copy.. . vices corresponding to the icon-type objects.
B. If data entered is valid. .. 4. The system recited in Claim 1 , 2 or 3, wherein the
1 . Create that copy in memory and 5O means for graphically depicting icon-type objects
on screen. and the means for graphically depicting connec-
tions include means for displaying on a video dis-
E ND PROGRAM play icons representing requester/server devices
[OO38] The present invention provides a network ad- and connection protocols.
ministrator, or one of like responsibility, with the resourc- 55
es for graphically defining and configuring a network, in- 5. The system recited in Claim 4, wherein the request-
cluding sub-networks thereof, each composed of multi- er/server devices are workstations in a data
ple nodes and connection paths. The respective nodes processing network.
7
1 3 EP O 49O 624 B1 1 4
6. The system recited in any preceding Claim, further combination of network objects and connections,
comprising_. some of which icons and representations of paths
and protocols in the second combination of network
means for graphically depicting a second net- objects and connections correspond to the first
work of three or more nodes substantially co- 5 combination of network objects and connections.
extensive with the first network on the worksta-
tion display using icon-type objects for the
nodes; and Patentansprü_he
means for graphically depicting path and pro-
tocol connections relating the second network 1O 1 . Ein System zur Erstellung von Konfigurationspara-
nodes on the workstation display using graph- metern für ein Netzwerk mit mehreren Arbeitssta-
ical representations which relate to selected tionen, das weiterhin folgendes umfaßt_.
icon-type objects. ein Mittel zur graphischen Abbildung eines Netz-
werkes mit drei oder mehr Nodes auf einer Arbeits-
_. The system recited in Claim 6, fu_her comprising 15 station-Bildschirmanzeige unter Verwendung von
means for validating connections by comparing at- Symbolobjekten für die Nodes;
tributes of said second network icon-type objects. dadurch charakterisiert, daß dieses System weiter-
hin folgendes umfaßt_.
8. The system recited in Claim 6 or 7, further compris-
ing means for generating and distributing configu- 2O ein Mittel zur graphischen Abbildung von Pfad-
ration parameters to physical systems correspond- und Protokollverbindungen der Netzwerk-No-
ing to said second network icon-type objects. des auf der Arbeitsstation-Bildschirmanzeige
unter Verwendung von graphischen Darstellun-
9. The system recited in any of Claims 6 to 8, wherein gen, die sich auf ausgewählte Symbolobjekte
the means for graphically depicting said second 25 beziehen_,
network icon-type objects and the means for graph-
ically depicting connections include means for dis- ein Mittel für einen Benutzer der Arbeitsstation-
playing on a video display icons representing re- Bildschirmanzeige, das eine interaktive Mani-
quester/server devices and connection protocols. pulation der Symbolobjekte und Verbindungen
3O gemäß Abbildung auf der Arbeitsstation-Bild-
1 O. The system recited in Claim 9, wherein the request- schirmanzeige durch Ziehen (Drag/Drop) er-
er/server devices are workstations in a data möglicht; sowie
processing network. ein Mittel zur Ableitung von Netzwerk-Konfigu-
1 1 . A method of generating configuration parameters 35 rationsparametern von Informationen, die
for a network of workstations, comprising the steps durch die Kombination der abgebildeten Sym-
of_. bolobjekte und Verbindungen dargestellt wer-
generating icons for each of three or more first den; und
network objects on a graphical video display; and
characterised by further comprising_. 4O ein Mittel zur Verteilung der Netzwerk-Konfigu-
rationsparameter.
positioning by drag-drop manipulation icons for
said first network objects; 2. Das System gemäß Anspruch 1 , das weiterhin ein
generating graphical representations of paths Mittel zur Validierung von Verbindungen durch Ver-
and protocols connecting selected ones of the 45 gleich von Attributen definierter Netzwerk-Nodes
first network objects on the video display; umfaßt.
generating configuration parameters for config-
uring devices in a physical network as defined 3. Das System gemäß Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei das
by a first combination of network objects and Mittel zur Verteilung der Netzwerk-Konfigurations-
connections_, and 5O parameter diese Parameter an physikalische Gerä-
distributing the configuration parameters to the te sendet, die den Symbolobjekten entsprechen.
respective devices in the physical network. 4. Das System gemäß Anspruch 1 , 2 oder 3, wobei
1 2. The method recited in Claim 1 1 , further comprising das Mittel zur graphischen Abbildung von Symbol-
the step of_. 55 objekten und das Mittel zur graphischen Abbildung
generating and positioning in a second func- von Verbindungen ein Mittel zur Anzeige von Sym-
tional mode icons and graphical representations of bolen auf einem Bildschirm, die die Anforderer/Ser-
paths and protocols corresponding to a second ver-Geräte und die Verbindungsprotokolle darstel-
8
1 5 EP O 49O 624 B1 1 6
Ien, umfaßt. te des genannten ersten Netzwerks durch Zie-
hen (Drag/Drop);
5. Das System gemäß Anspruch 4, wobei die Anfor-
derer/Server-Geräte Arbeitsstationen in einem Da- Die Erzeugung graphischer Darstellungen von
tenverarbeitungsnetzwerk sind. 5 Pfaden und Protokollen, die ausgewählte Ob-
jekte des ersten Netzwerkes auf der Bild-
6. Das System gemäß allen obigen Ansprüchen, das schirmanzeige verbinden;
weiterhin folgendes umfaßt_. Die Erzeugung von Konfigurationsparametern
ein Mittel zur graphischen Abbildung eines 1O zur Konfiguration von Geräten in einem physi-
zweiten Netzwerkes mit drei oder mehr Nodes kalischen Netzwerk gemäß Definition durch ei-
auf der Bildschirmanzeige der Arbeitsstation, ne erste Kombination von Netzwerkobjekten
das im wesentlichen den gleichen Umfang auf- und Verbindungen; und
weist wie das erste Netzwerk, und zwar unter
Verwendung von Symbolobjekten für die No- 15 Ve_eilung der Konfigurationsparameter auf die
des; und jeweiligen Geräte im physikalischen Netzwerk.
ein Mittel zur graphischen Abbildung von Pfad- 1 2. Das Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 1 1 , das weiterhin
und Protokollverbindungen der zweiten Netz- folgenden Schritt umfaßt_.
werk-Nodes auf der Arbeitsstation-Bildschirm- 2O Die Erstellung und Positionierung von Symbolen
anzeige unter Verwendung von graphischen und graphischen Darstellungen von Pfaden und
Darstellungen, die sich auf die ausgewählten Protokollen einer zweiten Kombination von Netz-
Symbolobjekte beziehen. werkobjekten und Verbindungen in einem zweiten
funktionalen Modus, wobei einige Symbole und
_. Das System gemäß Anspruch 6, das weiterhin ein 25 Darstellungen von Pfaden und Protokollen in der
Mittel zur Validierung der Verbindungen durch Ver- zweiten Kombination von Netzwerkobjekten und
gleich von Attributen der Symbolobjekte des ge- Verbindungen der ersten Kombination von Netz-
nannten zweiten Netzwerkes umfaßt. werkobjekten und Verbindungen entsprechen.
8. Das System gemäß Anspruch 6 oder 7, das weiter- 3O
hin ein Mittel zur Erstellung und Verteilung von Kon- Revendi_ations
figurationsparametern an physikalische Systeme
entsprechend den Symbolobjekten des genannten 1 . Un système pour générer des paramètres de con-
zweiten Netzwerkes umfaßt. figuration pour un réseau ou des postes de travail
35 multiples, comprenant _.
9. Das System gemäß den Ansprüchen 6 bis 8, wobei des moyens pour représenter graphiquement un ré-
das Mittel zur graphischen Abbildung von Symbol- seau, constitué de trois noeuds ou plus, sur un af-
objekten des genannten zweiten Netzwerkes und fichage de poste de travail par utilisation d'objets de
das Mittel zur graphischen Abbildung von Verbin- type icône pour les noeuds;
dungen ein Mittel zur Anzeige von Symbolen auf ei- 4O caractérisé par le fait de comprendre en outre _.
nem Bildschirm, die die Anforderer/Server-Geräte
und die Verbindungsprotokolle darstellen, umfaßt. des moyens pour représenter graphiquement
Ies connexions de chemin et de protocole con-
1 O. Das System gemäß Anspruch 9, wobei die Anfor- cernant les noeuds de réseau sur l'affichage de
derer/Se_er-Geräte Arbeitsstationen in einem Da- 45 poste de travail, par utilisation de représenta-
tenverarbeitungsnetzwerk sind. tions graphiques concernant des objets de type
icône, sélectionnés_,
1 1 . Ein Verfahren zur Erstellung von Konfigurationspa-
rametern für ein Netzwerk mit mehreren Arbeitssta- des moyens destinés à un utilisateur de l'affi-
tionen vorgestellt, das weiterhin folgende Schritte 5O chage du poste de travail, afin de manipuler de
umfaßt_. façon interactive, par manipulation de type glis-
Erstellung von Symbolen für jedes der drei oder ser-déposer, les objets de type icône et les con-
mehr ersten Netzwerkobjekte auf einer graphi- nexions, tels que décrits sur l'affichage de pos-
schen Bildschirmanzeige; te de travail;
dadurch charakterisiert, daß dieses Verfahren wei- 55
terhin folgendes umfaßt_. des moyens pour dériver des paramètres de
configuration de réseau à partir de l'information
Die Positionierung von Symbolen für die Objek- représentée par la combinaison des objets de
9
1 7 EP O 49O 624 B1 1 8
type icône et des connexions illustrées; et 9. Le système selon l'une quelconque des revendica-
tions 6 à 8, dans lequel les moyens permettant de
des moyens pour distribuer les paramètres de représenter graphiquement lesdits objets de type
configuration de réseau. icône de deuxième réseau et les moyens permet-
5 tant de représenter graphiquement les connexions
2. Le système selon la revendication 1 , comprenant comprennent des moyens destinés à afficher sur un
en outre des moyens pour valider des connexions visuel d'affichage des icônes représentant des dis-
en comparant des attributs concernant des noeuds positifs de requête/serveur et des protocoles de
définis du réseau. connexion.
1O
3. Le système selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans le- 1 O. Le système selon la revendication 9, dans lequel
quel les moyens destinés à distribuer les paramè- les dispositifs de requête/serveurs sont des postes
tres de configurations de réseau envoient ces pa- de travail placés dans un réseau de traitement de
ramètres àdes dispositifs physiques correspondant données.
aux objets de type icône. 15 11 . Un procédé de génération de paramètres de confi-
4. Le système selon la revendication 1 , 2 ou 3, dans gurations pour un réseau constitué de postes de
Iequel les moyens permettant de représenter gra- travail, comprenant les étapes consistant à _.
phiquement des objets de type icône et les moyens générer des icônes pour chacun des trois premiers
permettant de représenter graphiquement des con- 2O objets de réseau ou plus sur un visuel d'affichage
nexions comprennent des moyens pour afficher sur vidéo graphique; et
un visuel d'affichage vidéo des icônes représentant caractérisé par le fait de comprendre en outre _.
des dispositifs de requête/serveur et des protocoles
de connexion. Ie positionnement par une manipulation de type
25 glisser-déposer d'icônes pour lesdits objets de
5. Le système selon la revendication 4, dans lequel premier réseau;
Ies dispositifs de requête/serveur sont des postes
de travail placés dans un réseau de traitement de la génération de représentations graphiques de
donnés. chemins et de protocoles, connectant des ob-
3O jets sélectionnés parmi les objets du premier
6. Le système selon l'une quelconque des revendica- réseau, sur le visuel d'affichage vidéo;
tions précédentes, comprenant en outre _. Ia génération de paramètres de configuration
des moyens pour représenter graphiquement pour configurer des dispositifs placés dans un
un deuxième réseau de trois noeuds ou plus, 35 réseau physique, tel que défini par une premiè-
sensiblement coextensifs avec le premier ré- re combinaison d'objets et de connexions ré-
seau, sur le visuel d'affichage du poste de tra- seau; et
vail, par utilisation d'objets de type icône pour
Ies noeuds; et la distribution des paramètres de configuration
4O au dispositif respectif se trouvant dans le ré-
des moyens pour illustrer graphiquement des seau physique.
connexions de chemin et de protocole concer-
nant les deuxièmes noeuds de réseau sur le vi- 12. Le procédé selon la revendication 1 1 , comprenant
suel d'affichage de poste de travail, par utilisa- en outre l'étape consistant à _.
tion de représentations graphiques concernant 45 générer et positionner dans un deuxième mo-
des objets de type icône sélectionnés. de fonctionnel des icônes et des représentations
graphiques de chemins et de protocoles correspon-
7. Le système selon la revendication 6, comprenant dant à une deuxième combinaison d'objets et de
en outre des moyens pour valider les connexions connexion de réseaux, certaines de ces icônes et
en comparant les attributs desdits objets de type 5O de ces représentations des chemins et protocoles
icône du deuxième réseau. dans la deuxième combinaison des objets et des
connexions de réseau correspondant à la première
8. Le système selon la revendication 6 ou 7, compre- combinaison des objets et connexions de réseau.
nant en outre des moyens pour générer et distribuer
des paramètres de configuration sur des systèmes 55
physiques correspondants auxdits objets de type
icône du deuxième réseau. 1 O
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