Network Controller Extended Node Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network configurations for extended network nodes are not suitable for long-term establishment and require manual review and interruption of network connections for reconfiguration, making it challenging to transition from a first configuration to a more resilient second configuration.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a network controller that closes and reconfigures traffic paths in extended network nodes to transition from a first network configuration to a second, more resilient configuration without interrupting network connections, using alternate traffic paths and iterative port reconfiguration to maintain network viability and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual reconfiguration of extended network nodes is performed, then network configuration can be changed from first to second configuration, but network connection interruption occurs and reconfiguration time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing alternate traffic paths before closing primary paths during reconfiguration. The network controller pre-configures backup paths and ensures they are ready to immediately carry traffic when the primary path is closed, thereby maintaining continuous connectivity throughout the reconfiguration process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (alternate traffic paths and network controller coordination) that mediates between the need for reconfiguration and the requirement for continuous connectivity. The alternate paths serve as intermediaries that temporarily carry traffic during the transition from first to second configuration, preventing direct interruption.
2Reliability
If iterative port reconfiguration is performed on extended network nodes, then network configuration resilience is improved, but reconfiguration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reconfiguration process is segmented into iterative steps where individual ports or path segments are reconfigured one at a time rather than all at once. The network controller divides the overall reconfiguration task into manageable segments, closing and opening paths in a controlled sequence that reduces complexity while maintaining resilience.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic reconfiguration where the network topology and traffic paths are continuously adjusted during the transition. The network controller dynamically manages path states, opening and closing paths based on real-time conditions, allowing the system to adaptively handle complexity while achieving resilient configuration.
3Productivity
If traffic paths are closed and reconfigured in extended network nodes, then network configuration can be optimized, but risk of network loops increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network controller implements feedback mechanisms to continuously monitor the network state during reconfiguration. Before closing a primary traffic path, the controller verifies that alternate paths are active and capable of carrying traffic. This feedback loop ensures that no loops are formed during the transition, as the controller only proceeds with path closure when conditions are verified to be safe.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by preventing loop formation before it can occur. The network controller checks for potential loop conditions and prevents closure of paths that would create loops. Alternate paths are pre-configured and validated to ensure they provide safe rerouting options without creating circular traffic paths.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for extended network configuration conversion and reconfiguration are described. A network controller proceeds through a set of extended network nodes in an extended network and reconfigures ports in at the various nodes from a first configuration to a second configuration while preventing network traffic looping and maintaining data and management traffic connection to the nodes during the reconfiguration.