SDN Device Local Profile Switching via Precision Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing software-defined network (SDN) technologies require time-consuming and cumbersome processes to switch between network operation profiles, often necessitating the SDN controller to be operational and connected, which can disrupt network functionality and is prone to human error, especially in critical infrastructure like electric power distribution systems where timely adjustments are crucial.
Innovation Solution
Implementing networking devices that can independently switch between multiple network operation profiles based on precise time windows, using techniques such as precision time inputs and established communication baselines, allowing seamless transitions without SDN controller connectivity, thereby enhancing security and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the SDN controller is used to switch between network operation profiles, then network control and management is centralized and secure, but the switching process becomes time-consuming and cumbersome, requiring the controller to be operational and connected
Solution Approach 1:
The networking device pre-loads and stores multiple network operation profiles in its local memory before they are needed. When a profile switch is required, the device can immediately activate a pre-loaded profile without waiting for controller intervention, thus reducing switching time while maintaining security through pre-authenticated profiles
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a local profile cache memory as an intermediary between the SDN controller and the network operation profiles. This cache stores copies of profiles locally, allowing the networking device to switch profiles independently of controller availability, thereby reducing switching time while maintaining the security benefits of centralized profile management
2Reliability
If the SDN controller must be operational and connected to switch profiles, then centralized control is maintained, but network functionality is disrupted during controller unavailability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the profile management functionality into two parts: centralized profile definition and storage in the SDN controller, and local profile caching and activation in the networking device. This segmentation allows the device to operate independently for profile switching while the controller remains the authoritative source for profile definitions, maintaining centralized control without requiring continuous controller connectivity for operations
Solution Approach 2:
The local profile cache acts as an intermediary that decouples the networking device from the SDN controller during profile operations. The cache stores authenticated profile copies locally, enabling the device to switch profiles and maintain network functionality even when the controller is unavailable, while still operating under the authority of centrally-managed profiles
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual profile switching is performed, then flexibility in profile selection is achieved, but human error increases and response time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements an automated profile selection mechanism that monitors network conditions, time inputs, and event triggers to automatically select and activate the appropriate network operation profile. This feedback-driven automation eliminates manual intervention errors while maintaining adaptability through configurable selection criteria such as time-of-day rules, event-based triggers, and network condition monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The networking device is equipped with automated profile selection capabilities that allow it to independently determine and switch to the appropriate profile based on pre-configured criteria such as time inputs from GPS receivers or network event detection. This self-service automation reduces reliance on manual operator actions, thereby reducing human error while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to different operational scenarios
4Productivity
If multiple network operation profiles are stored and switched based on time windows, then rapid profile switching is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device pre-loads multiple network operation profiles into local memory and pre-configures time windows and selection criteria. This preliminary preparation enables rapid profile switching by eliminating the need for real-time profile retrieval or complex evaluation during switching events, thereby increasing productivity while managing complexity through advance configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses time-based parameters (such as time of day, date, or duration since an event) as simple, easily measurable criteria for profile selection. By changing the selection parameter from complex network condition analysis to simple time comparison, the system achieves rapid switching while reducing the computational complexity of profile management
Data Source
AI summary
A software-defined network controller (SDN controller) defines a first network flow to be selectively implemented by a networking device according to a first network operation profile. The SDN controller defines a second network flow to be selectively implemented by the networking device according to a second network operation profile. The first and second network operation profiles are stored within a memory of the networking device to be selectively implemented during different time periods based on a precision time input via a precision time input port on the networking device. In some embodiments, the networking device may detect a network event and implement a network operation profile for a preset time period based on the precision time input.