Decentralized Path Selection in Multi-Domain Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

In multi-domain networks, the hierarchical disposition of control devices for setting paths becomes complex and prone to bottlenecks due to increased functions and diversification of network technologies, complicating management responsibility demarcation.

Innovation Solution

A path setting system that includes an orchestrator generating path candidates and transmitting them to domain control devices, which store metrics and autonomously calculate and set the optimal path without requiring a hierarchical control structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a hierarchical control device structure is adopted for path setting in multi-domain networks, then path setting capability is achieved, but device complexity increases and management responsibility demarcation becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepath setting capabilityVSAvoidcontrol device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the path setting function across multiple independent control devices (first control device, second control device, third control device) rather than concentrating it in a single hierarchical integrated control device. Each control device autonomously performs path setting within its domain, eliminating the need for complex hierarchical management while achieving end-to-end path setting capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the number of domains and network technologies increases, then network adaptability improves, but the number of functions of integrated control device increases creating a bottleneck

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork adaptabilityVSAvoidcontrol device processing efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the control functions across multiple independent control devices, each handling path setting for its specific domain. This segmentation prevents any single control device from becoming overloaded with functions across multiple domains and technologies, thereby maintaining processing efficiency while supporting network adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each control device autonomously performs path setting decisions and metric calculations for its domain without requiring coordination or arbitration from a central integrated control device. This self-service capability eliminates processing bottlenecks while allowing the system to adapt to diverse network domains independently.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11979312B2Network path selection for communication devices

Publication Date: 2024.05.07 NIPPON TELEGRAPH & TELEPHONE CORP

AI summary

An end-to-end path can be set without providing a hierarchy in a control device of a multi-domain network. A path setting system (10) includes an orchestrator 200 and a control device (100). The orchestrator (200) generates path candidates corresponding to a line of domains through which paths that are candidates for a path pass and transmits the path candidates to control devices (100) of domains through which the path candidates pass to request setting of the path. The control device (100) acquires, from the control devices (100) of other domains through which path candidates pass, metrics of the path candidates in the domains, calculates total metrics, selects an optimum path, and sets the optimum path.