Dynamic Link State Control for Packet Network Routing Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for dynamic topology reconfiguration in packet networks, such as those described in the document 'Distributed Virtual Network Topology Control Mechanism in GMPLS-Based Multiregion Networks', fail to adequately monitor the impact on routing protocols, leading to topology instabilities and potential congestion or under-use of links.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for controlling routing in a packet network that dynamically creates or suppresses links based on traffic conditions, using a metric to determine the shortest path and switching between virtual and real connection states, with a connectivity test to manage network topology, and includes a unit for advertising metrics to other routers to adjust link states accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If links are dynamically created or suppressed based on traffic conditions, then network resource utilization is improved, but topology stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic link management where the network topology adapts to traffic conditions. Links are dynamically created when traffic thresholds are exceeded and suppressed when traffic drops below thresholds, allowing the network to optimize resource utilization while maintaining stability through controlled adaptation rather than rigid fixed topology
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state parameter of links between 'virtual' and 'real' states based on traffic conditions. By monitoring traffic metrics and transitioning links between these states, the network achieves both resource optimization and stability through parameter-based control rather than structural chaos
2Productivity
If routing protocols independently determine shortest paths, then routing efficiency is improved, but traffic engineering control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces virtual links as an intermediary mechanism between the routing protocol and actual physical links. These virtual links allow traffic engineering control by manipulating perceived topology without disrupting the independent operation of routing protocols, enabling controlled traffic distribution while maintaining routing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual copies of physical links that can be independently managed. These virtual link representations allow traffic engineering operations on the logical topology without affecting the physical network or routing protocol operations, enabling control without interference
3Adaptability or versatility
If virtual adjacencies are advertised to all routers, then routing adaptability is improved, but information consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different quality characteristics to different types of adjacencies. Virtual adjacencies are advertised with specific properties that distinguish them from real adjacencies, allowing routers to adapt routing decisions locally based on the specific characteristics of each adjacency type while maintaining global information consistency
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling routing in a packet network supported by a transport network allowing the dynamic creation/suppression of links for transporting packets of said packet network, said method including a routing step, a step of informing other routers of said network of the metric assigned to each link of the packet network, and a step of creating/destroying a link. The link may have three states: a non-connected state if said two routers cannot be directly connected, a virtual connection state wherein a virtual metric is assigned to said link between said head end router and said tail end router of the same communication, and a real connection state wherein a real metric is normally assigned to said link.