Network Topology Visualization for Dynamic Fabric Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large-scale computer networks face challenges in visualization due to the complexity of near-mesh connectivity, leading to illegible chaos in traditional visualization methods, making it difficult for network administrators to comprehend and troubleshoot issues in real-time.
Innovation Solution
A visualization tool that simplifies network displays by hiding all edges and presenting inter-tier link status on individual nodes or groupings, allowing users to selectively show detailed connections, enabling instant recognition of connection states and drill-down for additional information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional visualization methods are used to display all nodes and links in a large-scale network, then complete network information is presented, but the visualization becomes illegible chaos that inhibits legibility and comprehension
Solution Approach 1:
The network visualization is segmented into hierarchical levels (summary view and detailed view). The summary view groups nodes by tier and shows aggregate connectivity patterns, while the detailed view displays individual node connections. This segmentation allows the system to present complete network information at the appropriate level of abstraction, preventing visual chaos while maintaining information completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to the visualization, moving from a flat two-dimensional display of all nodes to a multi-level structure where nodes are organized by tier. This dimensional change allows the system to display both summary-level and detail-level information simultaneously without creating visual chaos, as each level operates at its own scale and abstraction.
2Loss of information
If detailed connections between all nodes are displayed, then complete connectivity information is shown, but the visualization becomes complex and difficult to interpret
Solution Approach 1:
The visualization system is dynamic, allowing users to navigate between summary and detailed views. In the summary view, only aggregate connectivity patterns are shown, reducing visual complexity. When users need detailed connectivity information, they can drill down to see individual node connections. This dynamic adjustment of detail level maintains information completeness while controlling visualization complexity based on user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system displays partial information (summary-level connectivity patterns) by default, rather than showing all possible details simultaneously. This partial action approach reduces visualization complexity while maintaining essential information. Detailed connectivity data is available on-demand when users need it, rather than overwhelming the user with all details at once.
3Loss of time
If real-time network data is displayed in traditional methods, then up-to-date information is provided, but the chaos makes it difficult to respond immediately to new information
Solution Approach 1:
The real-time data is segmented into summary metrics and detailed node information. The summary view provides immediate visibility of overall network health and connectivity patterns, enabling rapid comprehension of current state. Detailed information is available on-demand for specific nodes, allowing operators to quickly assess situations and drill down only when necessary, reducing response time while maintaining comprehension.
Data Source
AI summary
In one example embodiment, a computer-implemented method is provided in which data is received that represents connectivity state between a plurality of nodes interconnected in a hierarchical manner in a network and including a first tier of nodes and a second tier of nodes, wherein the nodes in the second tier have at least one link to each node in the first tier. Display data is generated based on the connectivity state among the plurality of nodes, the display data describing a graphical user representation of the inter-tier link status of individual nodes or groupings of nodes. The display data is presented to a display device.