Multi-Layer SDN Orchestrator for Network Resource Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing software defined networks (SDNs) lack multi-layer orchestration capabilities, leading to inefficient resource utilization and high energy consumption, as orchestrators typically operate on a single layer and do not automate decisions across all network resources.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for multi-layer orchestration in SDNs, where an orchestrator receives orchestration-related data, determines configuration information based on protocol layer capabilities, and provides optimized configuration to network resources across multiple layers to automate connectivity and resource allocation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If single-layer orchestration is used, then device complexity is reduced, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveorchestration system complexityVSAvoidresource utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the network orchestration into multiple protocol layers (Layer 1, Layer 2, Layer 3, etc.), with each layer having its own orchestrator that handles specific protocol-level resources. This segmentation allows each orchestrator to focus on optimizing resources at its specific layer while collectively achieving comprehensive multi-layer resource optimization, thus resolving the contradiction between system complexity and resource utilization efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Extent of automation

If manual configuration methods are used, then automation extent is reduced, but implementation reliability is improved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveorchestration automation levelVSAvoidconfiguration reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where each layer orchestrator monitors the state of network resources at its layer and automatically adjusts configurations based on real-time conditions. This automated feedback loop ensures reliable resource allocation and connectivity management while maintaining high automation levels, resolving the contradiction between automation extent and implementation reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If comprehensive resource orchestration is implemented, then productivity is improved, but use of energy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveorchestration capabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements partial orchestration by dividing the network into multiple protocol layers, where each layer orchestrator only manages resources at its specific layer rather than orchestrating all network resources comprehensively. This partial action approach maintains adequate orchestration capability for each layer while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to a single comprehensive orchestrator, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and energy usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS9917729B2Methods, systems, and computer readable media for multi-layer orchestration in software defined networks (SDNs)
Publication Date: 2018.03.13 ORACLE INT CORP
  • US9917729B2 patent drawing
  • US9917729B2 patent drawing
  • US9917729B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods, systems, and computer readable media for multi-layer orchestration in software defined networks (SDNs) are disclosed. In one example, the method includes receiving orchestration related data for implementing a network service using the network resources within the SDN, determining configuration information for the network resources based on the orchestration related data and protocol layer capability of the network resources, wherein determining the configuration information includes identifying the network resources having the protocol layer capability to provide network services, and providing the configuration information to the network resources.