SDN Controller Resource Allocation via Modular Proposal Evaluation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Software-defined networking (SDN) controllers face challenges in optimizing resource allocation across multiple modules while adhering to competing policies and objectives, leading to suboptimal network performance.
Innovation Solution
A modular controller framework that allows multiple modules to generate and evaluate proposals for resource allocation, with a central coordinator collecting and selecting proposals that maximize system-wide objectives while enforcing policy constraints, thereby approximating a globally-optimal solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple modules compete for resources with competing policies and objectives, then resource allocation complexity increases, but system-wide optimization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a centralized resource allocation mechanism that acts as an intermediary between multiple controller modules. This mediator collects resource allocation proposals from various modules, evaluates them against system-wide objectives and policy constraints, and selects the optimal allocation方案. This resolves the contradiction by providing a unified decision-making layer that maintains policy compliance while optimizing overall resource allocation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the resource allocation process into distinct phases: proposal generation by individual modules, central evaluation against policies and objectives, and selective implementation. This segmentation allows each module to independently propose allocations while the central mechanism ensures system-wide optimization, thereby maintaining both policy compliance and allocation efficiency.
2Productivity
If a centralized mechanism evaluates all proposals to maximize system-wide objectives, then optimization improves, but computational overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial evaluation by having the centralized mechanism assess proposals against essential policy constraints and system-wide objectives rather than performing exhaustive optimization analysis on every detail. This partial action approach achieves sufficient system-wide optimization while significantly reducing computational overhead compared to complete exhaustive evaluation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modules generate multiple proposals for resource allocation, then allocation options increase, but decision-making complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional approach by having modules generate proposals first, then applying centralized filtering and selection criteria rather than having the controller generate options. This inversion maintains allocation flexibility through multiple module-proposed options while reducing decision-making complexity through standardized evaluation criteria and automated selection based on system-wide objectives.
Data Source
AI summary
An example method for allocating resources in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure includes collecting proposals from a plurality of modules, the proposals assigning the resources to the plurality of modules and resulting in topology changes in a computer network environment, identifying a set of proposals in the proposals, the set of proposals complying with policies associated with the plurality of modules, instructing the plurality of modules to evaluate the set of proposals, selecting a proposal from the set of proposals, and instructing at least one module associated with the selected proposal to instantiate the selected proposal.