An architecture for programmable network elements

The author describes an architecture for a programmable network element which integrates the functionality of multiple network elements in the current intelligent network and provides for expansion to integrate new capabilities as the need arises. This system architecture provides the ability to provide a short-term programmable interface, rapidly conform to a standard control interface, and combine existing functionality to produce new types of network elements. The elements used in providing these abilities include: a highly modular, multitiered software architecture utilizing well-defined interfaces; a menu of available hardware components which can be mixed to meet the needs of the software architecture; a set of easily integrated functional clusters each providing a specific functional capability; and a fast packet switch connecting functional clusters to form new types of network elements