SDN–Non-SDN Node Discovery for Automated Network Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
SDN networks face challenges in effectively managing and integrating with non-SDN nodes due to the lack of efficient discovery and linking mechanisms, hindering network scalability and management.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for discovering and linking SDN nodes with non-SDN nodes through a processor that receives node metadata, identifies compatible nodes, establishes communication links, and integrates them into the network using a network controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If SDN networks use centralized control for network management, then network optimization and dynamic management are improved, but the ability to integrate and manage non-SDN nodes is worsened due to lack of discovery mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network controller as an intermediary component that bridges SDN nodes and non-SDN nodes. The network controller receives discovery messages from non-SDN nodes, processes node metadata, and establishes communication links, thereby enabling centralized SDN control to effectively manage heterogeneous network nodes without requiring the non-SDN nodes to be natively SDN-compatible
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the network management function by separating the control plane (SDN controller) from the data plane (both SDN and non-SDN nodes). This segmentation allows the controller to handle discovery and integration tasks independently, enabling scalable management of non-SDN nodes without impacting the core SDN control mechanisms
2Device complexity
If manual reconfiguration of individual network devices is eliminated through SDN, then network management complexity is reduced, but the challenge of discovering and linking non-SDN nodes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service discovery mechanism where non-SDN nodes automatically send discovery messages to the network controller when they join the network. The nodes self-announce their presence and capabilities through structured metadata in the discovery messages, eliminating the need for manual registration or complex discovery protocols initiated by the controller
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state of node integration by introducing structured node metadata parameters in discovery messages. These parameters include node identifiers, capabilities, and configuration information, transforming the discovery process from an unstructured manual task to an automated parameter-based matching process that the controller can efficiently handle
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-SDN nodes are integrated into the SDN network, then network scalability is enhanced, but the challenge of identifying compatible nodes and establishing communication links increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter-based compatibility verification by comparing node metadata parameters (such as supported protocols, capabilities, and interface types) between SDN and non-SDN nodes. The network controller automatically matches nodes based on compatible parameter sets, eliminating the need for complex manual compatibility assessment and enabling scalable integration of heterogeneous nodes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal integration framework where the network controller handles multiple functions: receiving discovery messages, parsing node metadata, identifying compatible nodes, establishing communication links, and integrating nodes into the SDN network. This multi-functional controller serves as a universal interface for all non-SDN nodes regardless of their specific types or protocols
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for discovering and linking software-defined networking (SDN) node and non-SDN node in a communication network are disclosed. The apparatus includes at least a processor and a memory communicatively connected to the at least a processor, wherein the memory contains instructions configuring the at least a processor to receive, from a plurality of non-SDN nodes, a discovery message, wherein the discovery message comprises node metadata related to the plurality of non-SDN nodes, identify, by an SDN node, at least one compatible non-SDN node from the plurality of non-SDN nodes based on the discovery message, establish a communication link between the SDN node and the at least one compatible non-SDN node and integrate, by a network controller, the at least one compatible non-SDN node into a communication network.