Intra-Node Fault Recovery in Multi-Stage Switching Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
In optical networking, intra-node fault recovery in multi-stage switching architectures is complex and time-consuming, leading to significant performance degradation and network disruptions when a failure occurs, as existing methods require establishing new sub-network connections that avoid faulty nodes, increasing recovery time and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic intra-node rerouting system that detects failures within a network node and establishes a compensated route around the faulty module card using different cross-connects between module cards, minimizing recovery time and confining errors within the node.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a new sub-network connection is established to avoid a faulty network node, then the connection reliability is improved, but the failure recovery time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network node into multiple independent cross-connects (first cross-connect and second cross-connect) that can operate independently. When a failure occurs in one cross-connect, only the affected segment is isolated while other segments continue to function, enabling partial service restoration without requiring complete rerouting through alternative network nodes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-configures multiple cross-connect paths between switching elements within the network node before failures occur. These redundant cross-connects are prepared in advance, allowing immediate failover to an alternative cross-connect within the same node when a failure is detected, eliminating the need for time-consuming dynamic rerouting through other network nodes.
2Reliability
If a new sub-network connection is established to avoid a faulty network node, then the connection reliability is improved, but the complexity of establishing the connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network node is segmented into multiple independent cross-connect units, each capable of handling connections independently. This segmentation allows the control system to manage failures at a granular level, isolating only the affected cross-connect while maintaining other connections, thereby reducing the complexity of connection establishment and rerouting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary cross-connect within the same network node that can serve as a backup path when a primary cross-connect fails. This intermediary element simplifies the rerouting process by providing a local alternative within the node, avoiding the need for complex end-to-end rerouting through multiple network nodes.
3Reliability
If the entire connection is broken due to a cross-connect failure, then the faulty element can be isolated, but the network performance and client experience are adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-connect functionality is segmented into multiple independent units within the network node. When one cross-connect fails, only that specific segment is isolated while other cross-connects continue to process connections, allowing fault isolation without complete connection breakdown and maintaining overall network performance.
Solution Approach 2:
Redundant cross-connect paths are pre-configured within the network node. Upon detecting a failure, the system can immediately activate a pre-prepared alternative cross-connect to maintain connection continuity, preventing complete connection breakdown and minimizing impact on network performance and client experience.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, apparatus and method for dynamic intra node rerouting is described. In one embodiment of the invention, a multi-stage architecture within a network node is provided in which various module cards, including intermediary module cards, are interconnected within a chassis. A connection is established between a first module card and a second module card through an intermediate module card so that traffic may flow internally within the chassis. Failure detection and intra-node recovery are provided within the node by provisioning an intra-node compensated route around a failed module.