Edge-to-Edge Flow Control for Multi-Path Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing and fully utilizing equipment capacity in heterogeneous network environments is challenging due to inter-operability issues and unregulated packet flows, which prevent high-capacity switching systems from reaching their full potential.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an edge-to-edge credit mechanism and a link-level credit mechanism at an edge device to facilitate flow control of multi-path-switched data frames, allowing data frames to be transmitted across different switched paths based on queue status, thereby preventing congestion at both egress edge devices and core switching devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple network devices are combined into a high-capacity switching system, then switching capacity is boosted, but packet flow control becomes difficult and the system cannot reach full capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments flow control into two independent mechanisms: edge-to-edge flow control (between ingress and egress edge devices) and link-level flow control (between edge devices and core switching devices). Each mechanism manages specific queues independently, making the overall control system manageable despite the high switching capacity involving multiple devices and paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where egress edge devices send queue status information back to ingress edge devices. This feedback enables dynamic flow control decisions based on real-time queue conditions, allowing the system to maintain full capacity utilization while preventing congestion through continuous monitoring and adjustment of packet flows.
2Productivity
If data frames are transmitted across multiple switched paths, then network utilization is improved, but congestion may occur at egress devices and core switching devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different flow control mechanisms to different parts of the network: edge-to-edge flow control manages queues at egress edge devices, while link-level flow control manages queues at core switching devices. This localized approach ensures that each part of the network is controlled according to its specific requirements, preventing congestion while maintaining high network utilization across multiple paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses credit-based flow control where ingress edge devices check queue status and obtain credits before transmitting data frames. This preliminary action prevents congestion by ensuring that transmission only occurs when destination queues have capacity, allowing multiple paths to be utilized without overloading any single device.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing equipment is re-used in a heterogeneous environment, then capital expenditure is reduced, but inter-operability challenges and unregulated packet flows occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal flow control framework that works across heterogeneous network equipment. The edge-to-edge and link-level credit mechanisms are designed to be equipment-agnostic, allowing different types of switches and network devices to inter-operate effectively. This universality enables cost-effective reuse of existing equipment while maintaining regulated packet flows and proper inter-operability.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that facilitates flow control of multi-path-switched data frames. During operation the system transmits from an ingress edge device data frames destined to an egress edge device across different switched paths based on queue status of a core switching device and queue status of the egress edge device. The egress edge device is separate from the core switching device.