Multi-Topology Network Path Scheduling via Bandwidth Calendaring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large-scale distributed applications face challenges in efficiently managing massive data transfer over wide area networks, as existing technologies lack dynamic and centralized methods for optimizing network resource allocation and traffic steering across multiple layers of network topology.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer, multi-topology network approach is implemented, where a bandwidth calendaring application (BCA) on a path computation element (PCE) dynamically schedules and establishes paths across base and overlay networks, utilizing enhanced network views to identify underutilized resources and prioritize traffic flow, thereby optimizing network capacity utilization and resource allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated bandwidth channels are configured over the network to support massive data transfer operations, then network capacity is sufficient to handle large-scale distributed applications, but network resource utilization is inefficient due to static allocation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path computation and bandwidth allocation by using a path computation element (PCE) to calculate optimal routes in real-time based on current network conditions, replacing static dedicated bandwidth channels with dynamically adjustable paths that adapt to changing traffic demands and network states
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes network parameters dynamically by adjusting path routes, bandwidth allocations, and routing metrics based on real-time network conditions, application requirements, and resource availability, allowing the network to optimize capacity utilization while maintaining sufficient capacity for large-scale applications
2Loss of energy
If a centralized path computation element dynamically schedules paths across multiple network layers, then network capacity utilization is enhanced by steering traffic to underutilized portions, but system complexity increases due to multi-layer topology management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a path computation element (PCE) as a centralized intermediary that manages multi-layer path computation, coordinating between base network layer and overlay network layer to optimize resource utilization while abstracting the complexity of multi-layer topology management from individual network devices
Solution Approach 2:
The PCE performs multiple functions including path computation, bandwidth allocation, traffic engineering, and coordination across different network layers, consolidating these diverse functions into a single universal system that reduces overall network complexity while improving capacity utilization
3Ease of operation
If first-in-time, first-in-right access to network resources is implemented, then simple resource allocation is maintained, but network efficiency is reduced due to inability to prioritize conflicting application requests
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the resource allocation parameter from simple first-in-time access to priority-based allocation by introducing application requirement parameters, bandwidth demands, and service level agreements that the PCE uses to compute optimal paths and allocate resources efficiently among conflicting applications
Data Source
AI summary
In general, techniques are described for dynamically scheduling and establishing paths in a multi-layer, multi-topology network to provide dynamic network resource allocation and support packet flow steering along paths prescribed at any layer or combination of layers of the network. In one example, a multi-topology path computation element (PCE) accepts requests from client applications for dedicated paths. The PCE receives topology information from network devices and attempts to identify paths through a layer or combination of layers of the network that can be established at the requested time in view of the specifications requested for the dedicated paths and the anticipated bandwidth/capacity available in the network. The PCE schedules the identified paths through the one or more layers of the network to carry traffic for the requested paths. At the scheduled times, the PCE programs path forwarding information into network nodes to establish the scheduled paths.