Path Computation Element Network Type Identifier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current path computation methods in multi-region networks are inadequate for distinguishing between different network regions and cannot accurately compute traffic engineering paths due to the limitations of using only a 'BANDWIDTH' field, which fails to account for various switching capabilities and network types such as SDH, OTN, and Ethernet networks.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a network type identifier in path computation requests, allowing the Path Computation Element (PCE) to determine the network type and compute paths based on specific traffic parameter constraint conditions, including parameters like signal type, concatenation type, and switching granularity, to support diverse network types such as SDH, OTN, and Ethernet networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If only a 'BANDWIDTH' field is used in path computation requests, then the path computation method is simple, but it cannot accurately compute traffic engineering paths for different network types such as SDH, OTN, and Ethernet networks
Solution Approach 1:
The path computation request is segmented into multiple specific fields: 'BANDWIDTH' for general bandwidth requirements, 'SIGNAL_TYPE' for signal characteristics, 'CONCATENATION_TYPE' for signal composition, and 'NETWORK_TYPE' for network domain identification. This segmentation allows each aspect of traffic engineering requirements to be independently specified, enabling accurate path computation for different network types while maintaining a structured and manageable request format.
2Productivity
If a centralized PCE is introduced to separate path computation function from Ingress node, then path computation capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A centralized Path Computation Element (PCE) is introduced as an intermediary between the Path Computation Client (PCC) at the Ingress node and the network resources. The PCE receives path computation requests with detailed traffic engineering parameters, performs the computation using specialized algorithms, and returns the computed path. This intermediary approach concentrates path computation expertise in a dedicated component, improving overall path computation capability while maintaining a clear separation of concerns between control plane elements.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a path computation method, a Path Computation Element (PCE), a node device, and a network system. The method includes: receiving a path computation request message (S201), where the path computation request message carries a network type identifier and traffic parameter constraint conditions of a path required to be computed, and the network type identifier indicates a type of a network where the path required to be computed locates; determining the network through the network type identifier, and computing the path in the network according to the traffic parameter constraint conditions (S202); and sending a path computation response message (S203), where the path computation response message carries the computed path. The problem of distinguishing and computing Traffic Engineer (TE) paths for various types of services in a multi-region convergence network is solved.