Multi-Layer Network Path Calculation Using Summarized Link Parameters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current multi-layer network path computation methods are inefficient as they often require detailed information from each layer, leading to complex interactions and suboptimal resource utilization, especially in client-server architectures with different vendor PCEs.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that summarize link information from one layer and transmit it to another for path calculation, allowing efficient multi-layer path computation without needing detailed information from all layers, using parameters like bandwidth, Quality of Service, and protection information, and utilizing protocols like PCE-P and UNI for communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If detailed information from each layer is used for path computation, then path calculation accuracy is improved, but device complexity and inter-layer communication overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepath calculation accuracyVSAvoidinter-layer communication complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential parameters (bandwidth, QoS, protection information) from the detailed link information of the second layer. Instead of transmitting complete topology and state information between layers, only the critical parameters needed for path computation are exchanged, reducing communication complexity while maintaining calculation accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by providing summarized parameter information specifically at the interface between layers where it is needed for path computation, rather than requiring complete detailed information throughout the entire system. This localized information exchange reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Productivity

If complete link information is exchanged between layers, then resource optimization is improved, but loss of time and communication overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource utilization efficiencyVSAvoidinter-layer communication time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and transmits only the essential parameters (bandwidth, QoS, protection information) needed for resource optimization decisions. By filtering out unnecessary detailed information, the communication time between layers is reduced while still providing sufficient data for effective resource optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies partial action by providing a summarized subset of link information parameters rather than complete information. This partial information exchange is sufficient for path computation and resource optimization purposes, reducing communication time while achieving the desired optimization效果.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Adaptability or versatility

If separated PCEs are used in client-server architecture, then adaptability between different vendors is improved, but path calculation efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevendor interoperabilityVSAvoidpath calculation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a standardized parameter summary as an intermediary between separated PCEs in client-server architecture. This standardized interface enables different vendor PCEs to exchange essential information efficiently, maintaining interoperability while improving calculation efficiency compared to detailed information exchange or complex cooperation protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3108624B1A method and apparatus for path calculation in a multi-layer network
Publication Date: 2019.12.25 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • EP3108624B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3108624B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3108624B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method of calculating a path in a first layer of a multi-layer network (10) comprises receiving information corresponding to one or more parameter from a second layer of the multi-layer network. The one or more parameter relates to a summarization of links (45) between edge nodes of the second layer connected with the first layer. The method further comprises calculating a path in the first layer using the received information from the second layer.