Removable Chassis for Scalable Switch Topology Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Changing the topology of switch networks in data centers is laborious and costly, requiring the rearrangement or replacement of thousands of cables, which is time-consuming and expensive, especially when initial network configurations do not meet evolving data traffic demands.
Innovation Solution
A removable chassis system that houses interconnects such as optical fiber or copper cabling, allowing for easy swapping of different topologies without replacing switches or numerous cables, enabling quick reconfiguration of switch network architectures from Clos to butterfly networks and others by rearranging the interconnects within the chassis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional cable-based topology configuration is used, then network topology can be established, but changing topology requires laborious rearrangement of thousands of cables which is time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network topology configuration into modular units by introducing removable chassis that can be independently swapped. Each chassis contains pre-configured interconnects that define specific topology patterns (Clos, butterfly, etc.). This segmentation allows topology changes to occur at the chassis level rather than requiring individual cable rearrangement across the entire network, dramatically reducing reconfiguration time and labor.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable chassis acts as an intermediary device between the switches and the network topology requirements. Instead of directly connecting switches with numerous cables, the chassis provides a standardized interface with pre-arranged interconnects. This intermediary layer abstracts the complexity of topology configuration, allowing rapid exchange of topology patterns by simply swapping chassis units rather than reconfiguring individual cable connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional cable-based topology configuration is used, then network topology can be established, but the process is costly and laborious
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting topology configuration into standardized removable chassis units, the patent enables pre-manufacturing and pre-testing of topology modules. Each chassis can be manufactured, configured, and validated independently before deployment, significantly reducing on-site labor requirements and deployment costs. The modular approach allows parallel preparation of multiple topology configurations that can be quickly deployed as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring interconnects within removable chassis during manufacturing. Topology patterns such as Clos and butterfly networks are pre-established with cables and connectors properly arranged and tested before the chassis leaves the factory. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for laborious on-site cable management and topology setup, reducing both labor costs and deployment time while maintaining high adaptability.
3Productivity
If fixed topology configuration is used during initial deployment, then network can be established quickly, but it cannot adapt to evolving data traffic demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics into the network topology by making it changeable through removable chassis exchange. While the initial deployment uses a fixed topology chassis for quick setup, the system is designed to accommodate future topology changes by allowing replacement of the chassis with different configurations. This dynamic capability enables the network to adapt to evolving traffic demands while maintaining the efficiency of initial rapid deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable chassis design provides universality by creating a standardized platform that can support multiple topology configurations. The same physical infrastructure (switches, racks, power) can accommodate different topology patterns (Clos, butterfly, mesh, etc.) by simply exchanging the chassis module. This multi-functionality allows the network to be deployed quickly with one topology and later adapted to different topologies as traffic demands evolve, without requiring infrastructure replacement.
Data Source
AI summary
Data center rack systems are described. A data center rack system can include a rack having switches. A removable chassis can include an arrangement of interconnect such that a topology for a switch network can be implemented when the removable chassis is coupled with the switches.