Systems, methods, and apparatus for replaceable elements within network switches

Abstract

This disclosure relates to systems, methods, and apparatuses for replaceable components within a network switch. A backbone switch for a network switch includes a support plate supporting at least one first switch. The backbone switch also includes a first set of connectors at a first edge of the support plate, detachably connected to one or more first leaf switches to communicatively couple and decouple at least one first switch from one or more first leaf switches.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to systems, methods, and apparatus for use with replaceable components within network switches. Background Technology

[0002] Network switches are used in networked systems, such as data centers, to route data between endpoints. Faulty components in a network switch (e.g., a faulty switching application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) in a director switch) can require tedious, expensive, and / or time-consuming maintenance work, including shutting down the entire network switch, disconnecting cables to remove the faulty component, installing a replacement component, and reconnecting cables before the network switch is operational again. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In an illustrative embodiment, a spine switch for a network switch includes: a support plate supporting at least one first switch; and a first set of connectors at a first edge of the support plate, the first set of connectors being detachably connected to one or more first leaf switches to communicatively couple and decouple at least one first switch from one or more first leaf switches.

[0004] In at least one embodiment, the support plate can be removed from the network switch.

[0005] In at least one embodiment, the backbone switch further includes a first guide rail disposed along a first edge of the support plate and projecting from the surface of the support plate, a first set of connectors attached to the first guide rail, the first guide rail being movable to allow the first set of connectors to be disconnected from one or more first leaf switches and to allow the support plate to be removed from the network switch.

[0006] In at least one embodiment, the backbone switch further includes at least one mechanism that causes the first guide rail to move.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the at least one mechanism includes a jack mechanism located on a support plate and mechanically coupled to a first guide rail.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, at least one mechanism includes a lever mechanically coupled to the jack mechanism and causing movement of the jack mechanism when the lever rotates.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, when the rod is coupled to the jack mechanism, the rod extends to a second edge of the support plate, the second edge of the support plate extending in a different direction than the first edge of the support plate.

[0010] In at least one embodiment, the end of the rod at the second edge of the support plate is mechanically coupled to a tool for rotating the rod.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, the backbone switch further includes one or more flexible cables for transmitting signals between the first set of connectors and at least one first switch.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, one or more flexible cables have a length that allows the first guide rail to move without disconnecting the one or more flexible cables from the first set of connectors and at least one first switch.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the backbone switch further includes a second set of connectors at a second edge of the support plate, the second set of connectors being detachably connected to one or more second leaf switches to communicatively couple and decouple at least one first switch from one or more second leaf switches.

[0014] In at least one embodiment, the number of the first set of connectors, the number of the second set of connectors, and the number of ports of at least one first switch make the backbone switch non-blocking.

[0015] In at least one embodiment, the backbone switch further includes a second rail arranged along a second edge of the support plate and projecting from the surface of the support plate, a second set of connectors attached to the second rail, the second rail being movable to allow the second set of connectors to be disconnected from one or more second leaf switches and to allow the support plate to be removed from the network switch.

[0016] In at least one embodiment, at least one mechanism includes a first mechanism for moving a first guide rail and a second mechanism for moving a second guide rail.

[0017] In an illustrative embodiment, the components for the network switch include a rack; and a backbone portion including one or more backbone switches. At least one of the one or more backbone switches includes: a support plate attachable to the rack and supporting at least one first switch; and a first set of connectors at a first edge of the support plate, the first set of connectors being detachably connected to one or more first leaf switches to communicatively couple and decouple at least one first switch from one or more first leaf switches.

[0018] In at least one embodiment, the component further includes a first leaf portion comprising one or more first leaf switches, each first leaf switch including a plurality of connectors, wherein each of the plurality of connectors of each first leaf switch is detachably connected to a different backbone switch among one or more backbone switches via a connector in a first set of connectors of each backbone switch.

[0019] In at least one embodiment, when one or more backbone switches are located in a rack and connected to one or more first leaf switches, the longitudinal axis of each backbone switch extends in a first direction, and the longitudinal axis of each first leaf switch extends in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

[0020] In at least one embodiment, each support plate further includes a second set of connectors at a second edge of the support plate, the second set of connectors being detachably connected to one or more second leaf switches to communicatively couple and decouple at least one first switch from one or more second leaf switches.

[0021] In at least one embodiment, the component further includes a second leaf portion comprising one or more second leaf switches, each second leaf switch including a plurality of connectors, wherein each of the plurality of connectors of each second leaf switch is detachably connected to a different backbone switch among the one or more backbone switches via a connector in a second set of connectors of each backbone switch. Each support plate further includes: a first movable support rail to which the first set of connectors is attached; a second movable support rail to which the second set of connectors is attached; one or more flexible first cables for transmitting signals between at least one first switch and the first set of connectors; and one or more flexible second cables for transmitting signals between at least one first switch and the second set of connectors.

[0022] In at least one embodiment, a leaf switch for a network switch includes: a support plate supporting at least one switch; a first interface located at a first edge of the support plate and connected to a device outside the network switch; and a second interface located at a second edge of the support plate and including a plurality of connectors, each connector being detachably connected to a single backbone switch among a plurality of backbone switches of the network switch, the second edge of the support plate being opposite to the first edge of the support plate.

[0023] It should be understood that the inventive concept encompasses the use of any one or more other embodiments, any one or more features disclosed herein, any one or more features substantially disclosed herein, combinations of any one or more features substantially disclosed herein with any one or more other features substantially disclosed herein, combinations of any aspect / feature / embodiment with any one or more other aspects / features / embodiments, and the use of any one or more embodiments or features disclosed herein. It should be understood that any feature described herein may be claimed in combination with any other feature described herein, regardless of whether those features originate from the same described embodiment.

[0024] Additional features and advantages are described herein and will be apparent from the following description and figures. Attached Figure Description

[0025] This disclosure is described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale:

[0026] Figure 1 A block diagram of a networking system according to at least one example embodiment is shown;

[0027] Figure 2 A network topology according to at least one example embodiment is shown;

[0028] Figure 3 A network switch according to at least one example embodiment is shown;

[0029] Figures 4A to 4D An illustration of a method for displaying data from at least one exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 3 Various views of additional details of the rack;

[0030] Figures 5A to 5I A method for displaying from at least one example embodiment is shown. Figure 3 Various views of additional details of the backbone switch; and

[0031] Figures 6A to 6G Various views for displaying additional details of the leaf switch are shown according to at least one example embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The following description provides only examples and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the claims. Rather, the following description will provide those skilled in the art with a valid description for implementing the described embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0033] As can be seen from the following description, and for computational efficiency reasons, the components of the system can be placed in any suitable location within the distributed network of components without affecting the operation of the system.

[0034] Furthermore, it should be recognized that the various links connecting the elements can be wired, traced, or wireless links, or any suitable combination thereof, or any other suitable known or later developed link capable of providing and / or enabling data communication with the connected elements. For example, the transmission medium used as a link can be any suitable electrical signal carrier, including coaxial cable, copper wire and fiber optic cable, electrical traces on a PCB, etc.

[0035] As used in this article, the phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” “or,” and “and / or” are open-ended expressions that are both conjunction and disjunction in operation. For example, the expressions “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” “A, B, and / or C,” and “A, B, or C” refer to A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together.

[0036] As used herein, the terms “determine,” “calculate,” and “operate,” and their variations, are used interchangeably and include any appropriate type of method, process, operation, or technique.

[0037] This document will describe various aspects of the disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, which may be schematic diagrams of idealized configurations.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries should be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the context of the relevant art and this disclosure.

[0039] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “include,” “including,” “includes,” “comprise,” “comprises,” and / or “comprising” specify the presence of the stated feature, integer, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0040] The inventive concept relates to the integration of a middle plane within a network switch (e.g., a director switch). Connections within a director switch can be made using a middle plane implemented via cables. The purpose of the middle plane is to allow connectivity between ports of the director switch. Due to its location and primary function, the maintainability of the middle plane in some director switches is limited. Any maintenance, replacement, or troubleshooting activity would require disassembling the entire director switch or most of its ports, for example, by disconnecting portions of a data center connected by the director switch (e.g., each with 600 to 800 nodes).

[0041] The inventive concept involves integrating intermediate plane functionality with a replaceable unit (customer replaceable unit, CRU) that minimizes or reduces the impact of failure.

[0042] Integrating the intermediate plane functionality with the CRU allows one to break down the full-size intermediate plane into smaller components, thereby reducing the impact of a failure on a specific part of the link provided by the director switch—rather than shutting down the entire switch as in director switches of related technologies.

[0043] By integrating middle-plane functionality within multiple replaceable units (CRUs), the impact of a failure on a specific unit and its connectivity can be reduced or minimized, rather than shutting down the entire system. As discussed in more detail below, the example embodiment proposes an innovative topology of a “spine in the middle” rather than a “mid-plane in themiddle.” This inventive concept eliminates the need for middle-plane designs involving cumbersome cabling. The inventive concept further reduces system mechanical size and the risk of severe “middle-plane” failures. In one embodiment, the switch comprises 32 customer-replaceable vertically oriented leaf switches, each with 16 rear connectors. The leaf switches are located on opposite sides of the backbone switch. Furthermore, each leaf switch may have 32 user-accessible ports positioned on its front panel. Any port can be connected to any rear connector, allowing full and unobstructed bidirectional bandwidth for each port.

[0044] The backbone switch according to an example embodiment may include 16 customer-replaceable, horizontally oriented backbones with 16 connectors on each side. The backbone switch may be "foldable" to reduce the width of each unit for insertion / removal and "expandable" to connect to leaf switches after the backbone switch is inserted. The method of moving the connectors of the backbone switch may be electric (e.g., a stepper motor), mechanical (e.g., using screws or gear sets to convert rotational motion into linear motion), or other methods. The connectors on the backbone switch can be moved by utilizing the flexibility of the wiring between the PCB and the connectors. In at least one embodiment, the connection scheme between the leaf switches and the backbone switch allows for 100% connectivity (any port to any other port).

[0045] Figure 1The illustration depicts a system 100 according to at least one example embodiment. System 100 includes network device 104, communication network 108, and network device 112. In at least one example embodiment, network devices 104 and 112 may correspond to network switches (e.g., Ethernet switches), a collection of network switches, a network interface controller (NIC), or any other suitable device for controlling data flow between devices connected to communication network 108. Each network device 104 and 112 may be connected to one or more personal computers (PCs), laptops, tablets, smartphones, servers, server collections, etc. In a specific but non-limiting example, each network device 104 and 112 includes multiple network switches in a fixed or modular configuration.

[0046] Examples of communication networks 108 that can be used to connect network devices 104 and 112 include Internet Protocol (IP) networks, Ethernet networks, InfiniBand (IB) networks, Fibre Channel networks, the Internet, cellular communication networks, wireless communication networks, combinations thereof (e.g., Ethernet Fibre Channel), variations thereof, and / or the like. In a specific but non-limiting example, communication network 108 is a network capable of communicating between network devices 104 and 112 using Ethernet technology. In a specific but non-limiting example, network devices 104 and 112 correspond to director switches that can have modular configurations. As discussed in more detail below, network switches (e.g., director switches) conceived according to the present invention can implement multiple layers of the network topology as field replaceable units (FRUs) or customer replaceable units (CRUs) within a single chassis.

[0047] Although not explicitly shown, network device 104 and / or network device 112 may include storage devices and / or processing circuitry for performing computational tasks, such as tasks associated with controlling the flow of data within and / or through the communication network 108 of each network device 104 and 112. Such processing circuitry may include software, hardware, or a combination thereof. For example, processing circuitry may include a memory containing executable instructions and a processor (e.g., a microprocessor) that executes the instructions in the memory. Memory may correspond to any suitable type of memory device or a collection of memory devices configured to store instructions. Non-limiting examples of suitable memory devices that may be used include flash memory, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), variations thereof, combinations thereof, etc. In some embodiments, the memory and processor may be integrated into a common device (e.g., a microprocessor may include integrated memory). Additionally or alternatively, processing circuitry may include hardware, such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Other non-limiting examples of processing circuitry include integrated circuit (IC) chips, central processing units (CPUs), general-purpose processing units (GPUs), microprocessors, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), collections of logic gates or transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, etc. Some or all of the processing circuitry may be provided on printed circuit boards (PCBs) or collections of PCBs. It should be understood that any suitable type of electrical component or collection of electrical components may be appropriately included in the processing circuitry.

[0048] Furthermore, although not explicitly shown, it should be understood that network devices 104 and 112 include one or more communication interfaces for facilitating wired and / or wireless communication between themselves and with other unshown elements of system 100.

[0049] Figure 2 The illustration depicts a network topology 200 according to at least one example embodiment. Topology 200 is a three-layer topology having a core layer, a backbone (or aggregation) layer, and a leaf (or access) layer. Each box in each layer represents a set of network switches that are repeated for that layer. Although not explicitly shown, endpoints including servers and / or user terminals may be connected to the leaf layer. It should be understood here that the example embodiments are not limited to topology 200, and the inventive concept can be applied to other suitable network topologies (e.g., a two-layer topology with a backbone layer and a leaf layer). As discussed in more detail below, the example embodiments relate to a network switch capable of implementing multiple network layers using customer-replaceable switches, thereby simplifying maintenance operations and reducing downtime of the network switch during maintenance.

[0050] Figure 3A network switch 300 according to at least one example embodiment is illustrated. The network switch 300 may have a director switch configuration and may include a rack 304, a backbone 308, a first leaf portion 312, and a second leaf portion 316. As discussed in more detail below, the backbone 308 may include one or more backbone switches 320 mounted in the rack 304, while each leaf portion 312 and 316 may include one or more leaf switches 324 detachably connected to one or more backbone switches 320. It is understood that the backbone switches 320 provide electrical and / or optical connections between one or more leaf switches 324 of the first leaf portion 312 and one or more leaf switches 324 of the second leaf portion 316, allowing signals to be routed through the backbone 308 from one leaf portion to another. Although Figure 3 It is not explicitly stated that the external interface of each leaf switch 324 can be connected to external devices within the network system (e.g., servers, other network switches, user terminals, etc.). Figure 1 The network devices 104 and / or 112 can be implemented using network switch 300 or at least a portion of network switch 300. In at least one example embodiment, the backbone 308 corresponds to Figure 2 One or more frames within the skeletal layer, while leaf portions 312 and / or 316 correspond to Figure 2 One or more boxes within the leaf layer. The subsequent description of the figures illustrates additional structural and functional details regarding the elements constituting network switch 300 (e.g., backbone switch 320 and leaf switch 324).

[0051] Figures 4A to 4D A method for displaying from at least one example embodiment is shown. Figure 3 Various views showing additional details of rack 304. More detailed... Figure 4A A perspective view of rack 304 is shown. Figure 4B An end view of rack 304 is shown. Figure 4C A side view of rack 304 is shown, and Figure 4D A top view of rack 304 is shown.

[0052] refer to Figures 4A to 4D The frame 304 includes a rectangular base 400, wheels 404, an adjustable stop 408, rectangular side supports 412, and an L-shaped mounting rail 416. The bottom side of the base 400 includes wheels 404 to allow movement of the frame 304. The bottom side of the base 400 also includes an adjustable stop 408, which can move downwards to contact the ground to prevent the frame 304 from moving after it has been rotated into position by the wheels.

[0053] The top side of the base 400 supports two side supports 412 arranged parallel to each other. Each side support 412 may include one or more openings 420 formed between vertical cross rails 424, and each opening 420 is sized to accommodate a plurality of leaf switches 324 of the assembled network switch 300. Figures 4A to 4D Each side support 412 is shown to include three openings 420, each opening 420 accommodating a suitable number of leaf exchangers 324. For example, Figure 3 The diagram shows that the central opening 420 of each side support 412 accommodates six leaf switches 324, while the openings 420 at either end of the central opening 420 each accommodate five leaf switches, so that a total of 16 leaf switches 324 can be installed in each leaf section 312 and 316.

[0054] Each side support 412 includes one or more mounting rails 416. Figures 4A to 4D An example is shown that includes 16 mounting rails 416 on each side support 412. Figure 4B As shown in the end view of rack 304, for example, each mounting rail 416 on one side support 412 has a corresponding and horizontally aligned mounting rail 416 on the other side support 412, such that the pair of horizontally aligned mounting rails 416 can support the backbone switch 320 in a substantially horizontal plane. It should be understood here that although the mounting rails 416 are shown as a solid and uniform end-to-end structure, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. In at least one exemplary embodiment, each mounting rail 416 may be formed in separate portions that are mounted to one or more of the vertically arranged cross rails 424 of the side support 412 that create the opening 420 (e.g., each of the four vertically arranged cross rails 424 of the side support 412 has an L-shaped bracket mounted thereon). In at least one other embodiment, the portion of each mounting rail 416 that is mounted to the side support 412 may include an opening corresponding to a connector of the backbone switch 320 and / or an opening corresponding to the opening 420. In this case, the bottom of the mounting rail 416 can be a solid material piece that travels from one end of the side support 412 to the other end of the side support 412.

[0055] Here, it should be understood that Figures 4A to 4D An example of rack 304 is shown, and various details of rack 304 can be varied according to design preferences. For example, the size, shape, and / or number of the components associated with rack 304 described above can be varied according to design preferences.

[0056] Figures 5A to 5I A method for displaying from at least one example embodiment is shown. Figure 3 Various views showing additional details of the backbone switch 320. More detailed... Figure 5A A top view of the backbone switch 320 is shown. Figure 5B A top perspective view of the backbone switch 320 is shown. Figure 5C and Figure 5D A block diagram of the mechanism that causes the connector of the backbone switch 320 to move is shown. Figure 5E The image shows a rear view of the backbone switch 320. Figure 5F The diagram shows a rear perspective view of the backbone switch 320. Figure 5G The diagram shows an end view of the backbone switch 320. Figure 5G The view of the other end of the backbone switch 320 is shown, and Figure 5I A side view of the backbone switch 320 is shown. For ease of explanation, it should be understood that... Figures 5A to 5I Some views may not include one or more elements shown in at least one other view.

[0057] refer to Figures 5A to 5I The backbone switch 320 includes a support plate 500, which supports at least one first switch 502. For example, Figure 5A The illustration shows a support plate 500 supporting two switches 502. The support plate 500 can be made of any suitable material. Figures 5A to 5I The components shown can be mounted or otherwise attached to the material. For example, support plate 500 may include a non-conductive substrate, such as the same or similar substrate used for printed circuit boards (PCBs). Support plate 500 may be rigid or partially flexible, and its dimensions allow it to be fitted into rack 304, enabling mounting or insertion of plate 500 into rack 304 via mounting rails 416. Notably, support plate 500 can be removed from rack 304 of network switch 300.

[0058] In at least one embodiment, the support plate 500 is mounted to or otherwise held in the rack 304 in a manner that allows for easy removal of the plate 500 from the rack 304. For example, one end of the support plate 500 includes a mechanism such as a clip 503 that engages with a corresponding mechanism on the rack 304 to allow a user to lock the plate 500 in place within the rack 304. The clip 503 can be operated by the user to unlock the plate 500 from the rack 304 so that the plate 500 can be removed from the rack 304. The example embodiments are not limited to the use of the clip 503 and other suitable mechanisms for manually locking and unlocking the plate 500 may be employed.

[0059] In at least one other example, the support plate 500 includes a bracket 504 that protrudes from the surface of the plate 500 and is located on the plate 500 at a position corresponding to the cross rail 424. The bracket 504 may be semi-flexible and configured to be inclined outward from the edge of the plate 500 such that inserting the plate 500 into the frame 304 results in a frictional engagement between the bracket 504 and the mounting rail 416 and / or the side support 512. In this case, as the plate 500 is inserted into the frame 304, the bracket 504 bends inward toward the edge of the support plate 500, such that the friction between the bracket 504 and the mounting rail 416 holds the plate 500 in place.

[0060] In at least one other embodiment, the bracket 504 can be mounted to the cross rail 424 and / or the mounting rail 416 in any suitable manner (e.g., using screws, pawl connections, etc.). In any case, the bracket 504 can be detached from the cross rail 424 and / or the mounting rail 416, thereby enabling the removal of the plate 500.

[0061] The example embodiments are not limited to the connections described above for holding the support plate 500 within the frame 304, and other suitable connections may be used.

[0062] Still referencing Figures 5A to 5I The backbone switch 320 may further include a first set of connectors 506 at a first edge 508 of the support plate 500, the first set of connectors 506 being detachably connected to one or more first leaf switches 324 to communicatively couple and decouple at least one first switch 502 from one or more first leaf switches 324. Also as shown, the backbone switch 320 may further include a second set of connectors 510 located at a second edge 512 of the support plate 500, the second set of connectors 510 being detachably connected to one or more second leaf switches 324 to communicatively couple and decouple at least one first switch 502 from one or more second leaf switches 324. In at least one example embodiment, the number of first set of connectors 506, the number of second set of connectors 510, and the number of ports 516 of at least one first switch 502 are such that the backbone switch 320 is non-blocking. Figures 5A to 5I In the example, there are 16 connectors in the first and second groups of connectors 506 and 510, and each switch 502 has 32 ports (16 ports on each side of switch 502).

[0063] Each switch 502 may include a substrate, such as a PCB 514, and input / output ports 516 located on either side of the PCB 514. For example, each side of the PCB 514 may have an equal number of input / output ports 516. Each switch 502 may also include a switching device 518 for routing electrical signals and / or optical signals from ports 516 on one side of the switch 502 to ports 516 on the other side of the switch 502. The switching device 518 in Figures 5A to 5I The illustration shows an electrical switching ASIC for routing electrical signals. However, the example embodiment is not limited to this, and the switching device 518 may additionally or alternatively include an optical switch for routing optical signals. PCB 514 may also include a connection 520 connecting port 516 of switch 502 to the switching device 518 of switch 502. Connection 520 may include conductive traces on PCB 514 and / or waveguides on PCB, depending on whether the switching device 518 is an electrical switching ASIC that receives electrical signals via conductive traces or an optical switch that receives optical signals via waveguides.

[0064] Each switch 502 may also include a connector 522 that connects to a cable (not shown) leading to a connector 524. Connectors 522 and 524, along with the cable, may carry signals that provide selected functionality to the respective switch 502. For example, connectors 522 and 524, along with the cable, may provide management functionality to the respective switch 502 to manage a backbone switch 320 with internal and / or external servers. Such management functionality may include commissioning and / or testing operations on the switches 502 (e.g., connectors 522 and 524 enable each switch 502 to operate as an independent unit during the manufacturing and assembly of the backbone switch 320 to perform commissioning operations and / or testing).

[0065] The backbone switch 320 may also include a port 526 located at one end of the support plate 500. The port 526 may be connected to internal and external cooling pipes (not shown) carrying liquid coolant. The internal cooling pipes may be arranged on the support plate 500 to provide cooling for the switch 502 (e.g., switching device 518). One of the ports 526 serves as a coolant inlet, while the other port 526 serves as a coolant outlet. The internal cooling pipes may be connected to... Figure 6A The same or similar arrangement as shown in the mid-leaf switch 324 is placed on the support plate 500.

[0066] The backbone switch 320 may also include a main power connector 528 for connecting power to each switch 502 (one connector 528 per switch 502). The connector 528 may blind-mate with a female connector within the rack 304 or be connected to an external power line.

[0067] Connector 524, port 526, and pin 528 can be inserted through corresponding openings in panel 530, which is attached to board 500 or rack 304 (see [link]). Figure 5B ).

[0068] As described above, the backbone switch 320 according to the example embodiment can be easily removed from rack 304 and replaced by a new backbone switch 320. At least some features related to the removability and replaceability of the backbone switch 320 are described in more detail below.

[0069] Still referencing Figures 5A to 5I The backbone switch 320 may include a substantially flat first rail 532 arranged along a first edge 508 of the support plate 500 on its surface. As shown, a first set of connectors 506 is attached to the first rail 532 (e.g., to the top surface of the rail 532). According to an example embodiment, the first rail 532 is movable to allow the support plate 500 to be removed from the network switch 300. Figure 5A and Figure 5B (The guide rail 532 is shown in the middle with double-headed arrows indicating inward and outward movement). For example, moving the first guide rail 532 inward toward the center of the plate 500 can disconnect the first set of connectors 506 from one or more first leaf switches 324 (connectors).

[0070] The backbone switch 320 includes at least one mechanism that causes movement of the first guide rail 532. This at least one mechanism may include a jack mechanism (or jack) 534 mounted on a support plate 500 and mechanically coupled to the first guide rail 532. For example, the jack 534 includes a portion fixed to the support plate 500 and another portion fixed to the guide rail 532 to allow the guide rail 532 to move inward and outward relative to the plate 500. The at least one mechanism may further include a lever 536 mechanically coupled to the jack mechanism 534 and causing translational movement of the jack mechanism 534 when the lever 536 rotates. Figure 5A As shown, for example, when rod 536 is coupled to jack mechanism 534, rod 536 extends to and protrudes from the end or edge of support plate 500. The end or edge of support plate 500 from which rod 536 protrudes may extend in a direction different from the edge 508 of support plate 500. In at least one embodiment, the end of rod 536 protruding from the end of support plate 500 is mechanically coupled to a tool for rotating rod 536. This tool may be a crank capable of being manually rotated by a user. Additionally or alternatively, rod 536 may be mechanically coupled to an electric motor that rotates rod 536 when the user starts the motor.

[0071] like Figures 5A to 5IAs further shown, the backbone switch 320 may include a generally planar second rail 538 arranged along a second edge 512 of the support plate 500. As shown, a second set of connectors 510 is attached to the second rail 538, for example, in the same or similar manner as connector 506 is attached to the first rail 532. Like the first rail 532, the second rail 538 is movable to allow the support plate 500 to be removed from the network switch 300. For example, moving the second rail 538 disconnects the second set of connectors 510 from one or more second leaf switches 324. In embodiments with two rails 532 and 538, at least one mechanism includes a mechanism for moving the first rail 532 and another mechanism 538 for moving the second rail. The mechanism for moving the second rail 538 may correspond to another jack 540 and lever 542 that operate in the same or similar manner as jack 534 and lever 536.

[0072] Here, it should be understood that, although Figures 5A to 5I Two guide rails 532 and 538 are shown, along with two sets of mechanisms 534 / 536 and 540 / 542 for moving the guide rails. However, it should be understood that only one guide rail and one mechanism for moving that rail may be used. In this case, the single movable guide rail should have a range of motion capable of disconnecting a connector (e.g., 506) on one edge of the backbone switch 320 from the connectors of one or more leaf switches 324, and also capable of allowing a user to slide the plate 500 laterally to disconnect the connector (e.g., 510) of the backbone switch 320 on the other side of the plate 500. The plate 500 can be removed from the rack 304 when the two sets of connectors 506 and 510 are disconnected from the corresponding leaf switches 324 in the leaf portions 312 and 318.

[0073] The backbone switch 320 may also include one or more flexible cables that transmit signals between connector groups 506 and 510 and switch 502. For example, Figure 5AA set of flexible cables, indicated by dashed lines, connects port 516 of switch 502 to corresponding connectors 506a, 506b, 510a, and 510b. Depending on the implementation of switch 502, one or more flexible cables transmit electrical and / or optical signals. Furthermore, one or more flexible cables have a length that allows rails 532 and / or 538 to move without disconnecting one or more flexible cables from connector sets 506 and / or 510 and switch 502. In other words, the flexible cables connecting each set of connectors 506 and 510 to port 516 of switch 502 can move or bend as rails 532 and / or 538 move under the force applied by jacks 534 and / or jacks 540, and the cables have sufficient slack and bending capacity to maintain the connection between connectors 506 and 510 and the corresponding port 516 during and after the movement of rails 532 and 538.

[0074] As mentioned above, Figure 5A and Figure 5B An example is shown where connector 506 is mounted to the top surface of a substantially flat guide rail 532 and connector 510 is mounted to the top surface of a substantially flat guide rail 538. The flat guide rails 532 and 538 can then be moved by jacks 534 and 540 respectively, causing connectors 506 and 510 to retract inward and extend outward together with their respective guide rails. However, Figure 5C and Figure 5D This is a block diagram of the end view perspective (or alternatively, a cross-sectional perspective view) of the backbone switch 320, and shows alternative designs for rails 532 and 538 and connectors 506 and 510. For example, as Figure 5C and Figure 5D As shown, each guide rail 532 and 538 can protrude from the top surface of the support plate 500. Figure 5C In this configuration, connectors 506 and 510 are attached to or fixed to the outer walls of guide rails 532 and 538. Meanwhile, in... Figure 5D In the middle, connectors 506 and 510 pass through guide rails 532 and 538 and protrude from the outer side walls of guide rails 532 and 538. Figure 5C and Figure 5D Guide rails 532 and 538 are shown in their extended state (top of each figure) and retracted state (bottom of each figure). In any case, guide rails 532 and 538 may have other suitable shapes or forms, and connectors 506 and 510 may be fixed or mechanically coupled to the respective guide rails 532 and 538 in other suitable ways.

[0075] Figure 5E and Figure 5FA rear view of the backbone switch 320 is shown. The rear side of the backbone switch 320 includes a main surface 544 and two surfaces 546 and 548 on either side of the main surface 544, the two surfaces 546 and 548 being recessed from the main surface 544 by the same steps 550 and 552. When the backbone switch 320 is mounted into the rack 304, surfaces 546 and 548 can contact the mounting rail 416. Therefore, surfaces 546 and 548 can have a width at least as wide as the width of the portion of the contact surfaces 546 and 548 of the mounting rail 416 to allow the backbone switch 320 to be seated within the rack 304. The widths of surfaces 546 and 548 can be the same or different. Figure 5G and Figure 5H As shown in the end view, surfaces 544, 546 and 548 are substantially planar and the surfaces of steps 550 and 552 are substantially perpendicular to surfaces 544, 546 and 548.

[0076] Figure 5I A side view of the backbone switch 320 is shown, which shows that the height of each bracket 504 can be substantially equal to the height of connector 510 (and connector 506), among other things.

[0077] Although not explicitly shown, it should be understood that the backbone switch 320 may include a cover for components on the cover plate 500. The cover may have substantially the same size and shape as the plate 500.

[0078] Here, it should be understood that Figures 5A to 5I An example implementation of the backbone switch 320 is shown, and various details of the backbone switch 320 can be varied according to design preferences. For example, the size, shape, and / or number of components (e.g., connectors and input / output ports) associated with the backbone switch 320 described above can be varied according to design preferences. For example, fewer or more switches 502 may be included. However, in general, the backbone switch 320 conceived according to the present invention has at least one set of movable connectors connected to the leaf switch 324, such that the backbone switch 320 is a field-replaceable or customer-replaceable unit.

[0079] Figures 6A to 6G Various views of a leaf switch 324 according to at least one example embodiment are shown. More detailed, Figure 6A A top view of leaf exchanger 324 is shown. Figure 6B A top perspective view of leaf exchanger 324 is shown. Figure 6C and Figure 6D A side view of leaf exchanger 324 is shown. Figure 6E A side view of leaf exchanger 324 is shown. Figure 6F A rear view of leaf switch 324 is shown, and Figure 6G A rear perspective view of leaf switch 324 is shown. For ease of explanation, it should be understood that... Figures 6A to 6G Some views may exclude one or more elements that are shown in at least one other view.

[0080] refer to Figures 6A to 6G Leaf switch 324 includes a support plate 600 that supports at least one switch 602, such as two switches 602. Support plate 600 may be made of the same or similar material as support plate 500, which is a non-conductive substrate such as a PCB or other suitable substrate. Like switch 502, switch 602 may include switching device 604 mounted on a PCB or other suitable substrate. Switching device 604 may be the same or similar switching device to switching device 518 of backbone switch 320. In a non-limiting example, switching device 604 includes an electrical switching ASIC.

[0081] Switch 602 may also include input / output ports 616, which are connected to connector 614 via, for example, electrical traces or other conductive wiring on board 600. That is, the substrate on which switch 602 is mounted may also include connections connecting the ports 616 of switch 602 to switching device 604 of switch 602. As described above with respect to backbone switch 320, these connections may include conductive traces on the PCB of switch 602 and / or waveguides on the PCB, depending on whether switching device 604 is an electrical switch ASIC that receives electrical signals via conductive traces or an optical switch that receives optical signals via waveguides.

[0082] The number of ports 616 on each switch 602 can be equal to the number of connectors 614, so that each port 616 can be connected to the corresponding connector 614. In the example shown, for each switch 602, there are 16 ports 616 connected to 16 connectors 614, which in turn are connected to the corresponding connectors 506 or 510 of 16 backbone switches 320.

[0083] Switch 602 also includes connectors 624 and 626 for powering switch 602. For example, each connector 624 is connected to connector 626 of switch 602 via a cable (not shown) to power switch 602. Connector 624 may be connected to the main power distribution tree in rack 304 (not shown) (e.g., blind mating).

[0084] Leaf switch 324 also includes a first interface 606 at a first edge 608 of support plate 600. The first interface 606 is connected to a device outside network switch 300. Figures 6A to 6GTwo first interfaces 606 are shown, each with four connectors, each connector having four channels for connection to switch 602. Therefore, each group of interfaces 606 has four connectors, each connector having four channels, and each group of interfaces 606 provides 16 input / output ports to switch 602. The first interface 606 may include one or more suitable connectors whose form factor is adapted for connection to devices external to network switch 300. Devices external to network switch 300 may include additional network switches, servers, or other suitable networking components within system 100. The first interface 606 may connect to the input / output ports of each switch 602.

[0085] Leaf switch 324 also includes a second interface 610 at a second edge 612 of support plate 600. The second edge 612 of support plate 600 is opposite to a first edge 608 of support plate 600, and the second interface 610 may include a plurality of connectors 614. According to at least one example embodiment, each connector 614 enables a detachable connection to a single backbone switch 320 among a plurality of backbone switches 320 of network switch 300. For example, each connector 614 enables a detachable connection to connector 506 or 510 of backbone switch 320, depending on which side of backbone switch 320 is connected to leaf switch 324. The number of connectors 614 included on leaf switch 324 may be equal to the maximum number of backbone switches 320 included in rack 304, such that each connector 614 can connect to a corresponding connector 506 or 510 on backbone switch 320.

[0086] In at least one embodiment, the way the support plate 600 is mounted to or otherwise held in the rack 304 allows for easy removal of the plate 600 from the rack 304. For example, in addition to the mechanical coupling between the connector 614 of the leaf switch 324 and the connectors 506 or 510 of one or more backbone switches 320, another mechanical coupling with the rack 304 can be achieved through a mechanism at the edge 608 of the plate 600. For example, because a clip 618 is located at the edge 608 and can engage with a corresponding mechanism on the rack 304, a user can lock the plate 600 in place within the rack 304. The clip 618 can be operated by the user to unlock the plate 600 from the rack 304, thereby enabling the removal of the plate 600 from the rack 304. The example embodiments are not limited to the use of the clip 618, and other suitable mechanisms for manually locking and unlocking the plate 600 can be used.

[0087] Leaf switch 324 further includes connectors 620 at one end of board 600, at edge 612 of board 600. Each connector 620 can be connected to a corresponding cable (not shown) leading to one of connectors 622 of switch 602. Connectors 620 and 622, as well as the cable, can carry signals that provide selected functions for the respective switch 602. For example, connectors 620 and 622, as well as the cable, can provide management functions for the respective switch 602 to manage leaf switch 324 with internal and / or external servers. Such management functions can include commissioning and / or testing operations of switch 602 (e.g., connectors 620 and 622 enable each switch 602 to operate as an independent unit during the manufacturing and assembly of leaf switch 324 to run commissioning operations and / or tests).

[0088] Leaf switch 324 also includes port 628, which is located on protrusion 630 of board 600, on the opposite side of board 600. Port 628 connects to internal cooling pipe 632 and can be further connected to external cooling pipe. Cooling pipe 632 is disposed on support plate 600 and provides cooling function for switch 602. For example, as Figure 6A As shown, cooling pipe 632 passes over exchange device 604 to dissipate heat generated by exchange device 604. One of the ports 628 serves as an inlet for coolant received from an external coolant pipe, while the other of the ports 628 serves as a coolant outlet 636.

[0089] like Figure 6B and Figure 6C As shown, for example, interface 606 may be embedded along edge 608 in sidewall surface 634 of board 600. Sidewall surface 634 may extend around the entire periphery of leaf switch 324, such that connectors 614, 620, and 624, as well as port 628, penetrate sidewall surface 634. Although not explicitly shown, it should be understood that leaf switch 324 may include a cover over components on board 600. The cover may have substantially the same size and shape as board 600.

[0090] from Figure 6G It is understandable that, for example, the rear surface 636 of plate 600 is essentially flat.

[0091] Here, it should be understood that Figures 6A to 6GAn example implementation of leaf switch 324 is shown, and various details of leaf switch 324 can be varied according to design preferences. For example, the dimensions, shapes, and / or number of components (e.g., connectors and input / output ports) associated with leaf switch 324 described above can be varied according to design preferences. For example, fewer or more switches 602 may be included. However, in general, leaf switch 324 conceived according to the present invention has a set of connectors 614, wherein each connector 614 connects to a single corresponding connector of backbone switch 320. Like backbone switch 320, leaf switch 324 is a field-replaceable or customer-replaceable unit because leaf switch 324 can be easily removed from the connectors of backbone switch 320 and / or rack 304.

[0092] Given Figures 1 to 6G At least one example embodiment relates to a component for a network switch 300. The component includes a rack 304 and a backbone portion 308 comprising one or more backbone switches 320. At least one of the one or more backbone switches 320 includes a support plate 500 attachable to the rack 304 and supporting at least one first switch 502, and a first set of connectors 506 at a first edge 508 of the support plate 500, the first set of connectors 506 being detachably connected to one or more first leaf switches 324 to communicatively couple and decouple at least one first switch 502 from one or more first leaf switches 324.

[0093] The component may also include a first leaf portion 312, which includes one or more first leaf switches 324. Each first leaf switch 324 may include multiple connectors 614. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, each connector 614 of the plurality of connectors of each first leaf switch 324 is detachably connected to different backbone switches in one or more backbone switches 320 via connector 506 of the first set of connectors of each backbone switch 320. Therefore, when one or more backbone switches 320 are positioned in rack 304 and connected to one or more first leaf switches 324, the longitudinal axis 328 of each backbone switch 320 extends in a first direction and the longitudinal axis 332 of each first leaf switch 324 extends in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

[0094] In at least one example embodiment, each support plate 500 further includes a second set of connectors 510 at a second edge 512 of the support plate 500, the second set of connectors 510 being detachably connected to one or more second leaf switches 324 to communicatively couple and decouple at least one first switch 502 from one or more second leaf switches 324. Therefore, the assembly may also include a second leaf portion 316, which includes one or more second leaf switches 324. Each second leaf switch 324 includes a plurality of connectors 614. Connectors 614 of the plurality of connectors of each second leaf switch 324 are detachably connected to different backbone switches 320 among one or more backbone switches 320 via connectors 510 of the second set of connectors of each backbone switch 320. Each support plate 500 may further include a first movable support rail 532 having a first set of connectors 506 attached thereto and a second movable support rail 538 having a second set of connectors 510 attached thereto. For example, as... Figure 5A As shown, each board 500 may include one or more flexible first cables for transmitting signals between at least one first switch 502 and a first set of connectors 506, and one or more flexible second cables for transmitting signals between at least one first switch 502 and a second set of connectors 510.

[0095] As can be appreciated from the above description, the example embodiments provide field-replaceable switches within the network switch, such as director switches, which reduces the cost and / or time of maintenance work that would otherwise involve powering down the entire network switch, disconnecting cables to remove faulty components, installing replacement components, and reconnecting cables before the network switch is operational again.

[0096] Although exemplary embodiments have been shown and described with respect to systems having specific types of elements, numbers of elements, element sizes, and / or element shapes, it should be understood that the inventive concept is not limited thereto, and fewer, additional, and / or different types of elements, numbers of elements, element sizes, and / or element shapes are within the scope of the inventive concept. Furthermore, the connectors described herein can be implemented as female connectors and / or male connectors as needed.

[0097] Specific details are set forth in the description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments.

[0098] Although illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail herein, it should be understood that the inventive concept may be embodied and employed in other different ways, and the appended claims are intended to be construed as including such variations, in addition to being limited by the prior art.

[0099] It should be understood that the inventive concept encompasses any embodiment in combination with any or more other embodiments, any or more features disclosed herein, any or more features substantially disclosed herein, any or more features substantially disclosed herein combined with any or more other features substantially disclosed herein, any aspect / feature / embodiment combined with any or more other aspects / features / embodiments, and the use of any or more embodiments or features disclosed herein. It should be understood that any feature described herein may be claimed in combination with any other feature described herein, regardless of whether such features originate from the same embodiment described.

Claims

1. A backbone switch for network switches, the backbone switch comprising: A support plate that supports at least one first switch; A first set of connectors is located on the surface of the support plate and at a first edge of the support plate. The first set of connectors is detachably connected to one or more first leaf switches to communicatively couple and decouple the at least one first switch from the one or more first leaf switches. as well as A second set of connectors is located on the surface of the support plate and at the second edge of the support plate opposite to the first edge. The second set of connectors is detachably connected to one or more second leaf switches to communicatively couple and decouple the at least one first switch from the one or more second leaf switches.

2. The backbone switch according to claim 1, wherein, The support plate can be removed from the network switch.

3. The backbone switch according to claim 2 further includes: A first guide rail is arranged along a first edge of the support plate and protrudes from the surface of the support plate. A first set of connectors is attached to the first guide rail. The first guide rail is movable to allow the first set of connectors to be disconnected from the one or more first leaf switches and to remove the support plate from the network switch.

4. The backbone switch according to claim 3 further includes: At least one mechanism that causes the first guide rail to move.

5. The backbone switch according to claim 4, wherein, The at least one institution includes: A jack mechanism is located on the support plate and mechanically coupled to the first guide rail.

6. The backbone switch according to claim 5, wherein, The at least one institution includes: A rod, which is mechanically coupled to the jack mechanism and causes the jack mechanism to move when the rod rotates.

7. The backbone switch according to claim 6, wherein, When the rod is coupled to the jack mechanism, the rod extends to the third edge of the support plate, the third edge of the support plate extending in a different direction than the first edge of the support plate.

8. The backbone switch according to claim 7, wherein, The end of the rod at the third edge of the support plate can be mechanically coupled to a tool for rotating the rod.

9. The backbone switch according to claim 3, further comprising: One or more flexible cables that transmit signals between the first set of connectors and the at least one first switch.

10. The backbone switch according to claim 9, wherein, The one or more flexible cables have a length that allows the first guide rail to move without disconnecting the one or more flexible cables from the first set of connectors and the at least one first switch.

11. The backbone switch according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one first switch is mounted on the surface of the support plate.

12. The backbone switch according to claim 1, wherein, The number of the first group of connectors, the number of the second group of connectors, and the number of ports of the at least one first switch make the backbone switch non-blocking.

13. The backbone switch according to claim 3, further comprising: A second guide rail is arranged along the second edge of the support plate and protrudes from the surface of the support plate. A second set of connectors is attached to the second guide rail. The second guide rail is movable to allow the second set of connectors to be disconnected from the one or more second leaf switches and to allow the support plate to be removed from the network switch.

14. The backbone switch according to claim 13, wherein, The at least one mechanism includes a first mechanism for moving the first guide rail and a second mechanism for moving the second guide rail.

15. A component for a network switch, comprising: frame; as well as A backbone comprising one or more backbone switches, at least one of which includes: A support plate, which can be attached to the rack and supports at least one first switch; and A first set of connectors, located at a first edge of the support plate, is detachably connected to one or more first leaf switches to communicatively couple and decouple the at least one first switch from the one or more first leaf switches, wherein when the one or more backbone switches are positioned in the rack and connected to the one or more first leaf switches, the longitudinal axis of each backbone switch extends in a first direction, and the longitudinal axis of each first leaf switch extends in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

16. The component of claim 15, further comprising: The first leaf portion includes one or more first leaf switches, each first leaf switch including a plurality of connectors, wherein each of the plurality of connectors of each first leaf switch is detachably connected to different backbone switches in the one or more backbone switches via connectors in the first set of connectors of each backbone switch.

17. The component of claim 15, wherein, Each support plate includes two surfaces that step back from the main surface, and wherein, when mounted into the frame, the two surfaces contact the corresponding mounting rails of the frame.

18. The component of claim 16, wherein, Each support plate also includes a second set of connectors at a second edge of the support plate, the second set of connectors being detachably connected to one or more second leaf switches to communicatively couple and decouple the at least one first switch from the one or more second leaf switches.

19. The component of claim 18, further comprising: The second leaf portion includes one or more second leaf switches, each second leaf switch including a plurality of connectors, wherein each of the plurality of connectors of each second leaf switch is detachably connected to different backbone switches among the one or more backbone switches via connectors in the second set of connectors of each backbone switch, wherein each support plate further includes: A first movable support rail, wherein the first set of connectors is attached to the first movable support rail; The second movable support rail, the second set of connectors being attached to the second movable support rail; One or more flexible first cables for transmitting signals between the at least one first switch and the first set of connectors; and One or more flexible second cables that transmit signals between the at least one first switch and the second set of connectors.

20. A leaf switch for a network switch, the leaf switch comprising: A support plate, comprising a plane on which at least one switch is mounted; A first interface is located on the plane of the support plate and at a first edge of the support plate, wherein the first interface is connected to a device outside the network switch; as well as A second interface is located on the plane of the support plate and at the second edge of the support plate, wherein the second interface includes a plurality of connectors on the plane of the support plate, each connector being detachably connected to a single backbone switch among a plurality of backbone switches of the network switch, and the second edge of the support plate is opposite to the first edge of the support plate.

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