OpenFlow Controller Node Bypass Path Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In network systems utilizing OpenFlow Switches, there is a need to bypass nodes for maintenance or power conservation, as unavailability of nodes can disrupt network functionality and increase power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A controller is used to remove a designated node from network topology information, calculate a new path that bypasses the node, and set flow information on each node along the new path to ensure uninterrupted network operation and reduce power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If a node is bypassed for maintenance or power conservation, then power consumption is reduced and maintenance is enabled, but network connectivity is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The controller pre-calculates and stores multiple alternative paths between node pairs in the topology information before any bypass is needed. When a node is bypassed, the controller can immediately select a pre-computed alternative path without interruption to traffic flow, thus reducing power consumption while maintaining connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that manages the bypass process. It removes the node from topology information, recalculates paths using alternative routes, and updates flow information in switches. This intermediary control ensures that bypass operations maintain network connectivity while enabling power conservation at individual nodes.
2Ease of repair
If a node is bypassed for maintenance, then maintenance operations can be performed, but network functionality is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates alternative paths and stores them in the controller's topology information before maintenance is needed. When maintenance is required, the controller immediately switches traffic to pre-computed alternative paths, allowing maintenance operations to proceed without disrupting network functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The network topology information and flow information are dynamically updated by the controller. When a node is bypassed, the controller dynamically recalculates paths and updates switch flow tables to redirect traffic through alternative routes, enabling maintenance while preserving network functionality.
3Loss of time
If alternative paths are pre-calculated and stored, then bypass operations can be performed quickly, but controller memory and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller pre-calculates and stores alternative paths for all possible node pairs in the network topology. This excessive pre-computation ensures that any bypass operation can be executed immediately by simply selecting from pre-stored paths, minimizing bypass execution time while accepting increased controller memory and processing requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller removes a node to be bypassed from topology information that prescribes the network configuration and calculates a new path not passing the bypass node. For the nodes that form the path, the controller creates flow information that prescribes operation on the flow at nodes to set the flow information at the nodes on the path.