Configurable Clos Network Using Programmable Circuit Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional Clos networks require substantial rewiring when expanding or contracting compute and networking equipment, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs, especially in large-scale datacenters where flexible and customizable network configurations are needed.
Innovation Solution
A configurable Clos network utilizing small-scale, programmable bi-directional circuit switches, such as optical or electrical switches, to connect spine and leaf cards, allowing for reconfiguration without rewiring existing cables, enabling full utilization of available ports and flexible interconnect topologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional Clos networks are used for large-scale datacenters, then network capacity can be achieved, but substantial rewiring is required when expanding or contracting equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by implementing programmable circuit switches that can dynamically reconfigure network connections through software control. Instead of physically rewiring the network when expanding or contracting equipment, the system uses programmable switches to logically reconfigure the Clos network topology, allowing the network to adapt its connectivity dynamically without physical changes to the cable infrastructure.
2Reliability
If traditional Clos networks are used, then network functionality is provided, but installation and maintenance costs increase due to rewiring requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Mechanics substitution principle by replacing the mechanical/physical rewiring process with an electronic/software-based reconfiguration mechanism. The programmable circuit switches use electronic control signals to change network connectivity, substituting the manual mechanical act of unplugging and replugging cables with an automated electronic reconfiguration process, thereby reducing installation and maintenance costs while maintaining network functionality.
3Device complexity
If small-scale programmable switches are used instead of large crossbar switches, then the number of crosspoints is reduced, but device complexity increases due to programmability requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Segmentation principle by dividing a large crossbar switch into multiple smaller programmable circuit switches arranged in a Clos network topology. Instead of using one large crossbar switch with many crosspoints, the system segments the switching function across multiple smaller switches, each handling a portion of the traffic. This segmentation reduces the crosspoint count per device while the collective programmability of all switches provides the necessary adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable Clos network includes leafs and spines and a switch fabric that connects the leafs and the spines. The switch fabric couples each leaf port of each leaf to at least one spine port of each spine.