Crosspoint Switch Path Rewiring in Spine-Leaf Port Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing two-tier Clos architectures in crosspoint switches often lead to undesirable network disruptions due to the need for alternative spine crosspoints when direct paths are unavailable, which can cause significant network disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to identify a switching path for source and destination ports in a crosspoint switch with a two-tiered spine-and-leaf architecture, utilizing a graduated or stepped connection path determination that minimizes disruptions by first using available connections between leaf and spine crosspoints and then performing rewiring in an ordered sequence, including source to spine, spine to destination, and source to destination rewiring, with multicast optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If alternative spine crosspoints are utilized when direct paths are unavailable, then connectivity is maintained, but network disruptions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by identifying and reserving alternate spine crosspoints before direct paths become unavailable. The method proactively establishes backup routing paths and performs connection setup in advance, allowing the system to maintain connectivity without disruptions when direct paths fail or become unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary control mechanisms that mediate between source and destination ports when direct paths are unavailable. The system uses intermediate spine crosspoints as mediators to establish alternative routes, and employs intermediate routing decisions to transition traffic smoothly without causing network disruptions.
2Productivity
If direct switching paths are used when available, then network operations are efficient, but path availability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts switching paths based on real-time network conditions and path availability. When direct paths are available, the system uses them for efficient operations. When direct paths become unavailable, the system dynamically transitions to alternative spine crosspoints, maintaining both efficiency and adaptability through flexible path selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes routing parameters dynamically based on path availability. The system monitors direct path availability and adjusts routing parameters accordingly, switching between direct and indirect paths. This parameter change approach allows the system to maintain efficient operations while adapting to varying path availability conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If spine crosspoints are utilized for interconnection, then leaf layer connectivity is achieved, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network architecture into distinct functional layers (leaf layer and spine layer) with clearly defined roles. This segmentation allows leaf layer connectivity to be achieved through standardized spine crosspoint interconnections while managing complexity through modular design. Each layer operates independently with well-defined interfaces, reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes identifying a switching path for source ports and destination ports of a crosspoint based switch including a two-tiered spine-and-leaf architecture. The method includes determining whether a switching path for a connection between a source port and a destination port is available, and identifying whether the source port and the destination port are associated with a same leaf. In response to determining that the switching path is available, the method includes executing a connection between the source port and the destination port utilizing a switching path on the same leaf. In response to determining that the switching path is unavailable, the method includes identifying whether free connections are available between a source leaf and a spine and a destination leaf and the spine. When the free connections are unavailable, the switching path for the connection between the source port and the destination port is executable by rewiring.