Stateful PCE Path Acquisition Mode Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing path computation method in MPLS networks is inflexible and not adaptable, limiting network scalability as it cannot effectively handle cases where a new path cannot be computed according to specific conditions.
Innovation Solution
A Stateful PCE is enhanced to allow the PCC to designate the acquisition manner of paths, enabling the PCE to search for or compute paths based on attributes such as only accepting already-established or newly-established paths, providing a more flexible path selection mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the PCE computes a new path according to network status information, then the path computation function is provided, but the flexibility and adaptability are poor when the PCE cannot compute a new path satisfying conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic path acquisition modes that can switch between different strategies (computing new paths vs. selecting from existing paths) based on network conditions and requirements. The PCE dynamically adjusts its behavior by accepting different path acquisition modes, making the system flexible while ensuring reliable path acquisition through multiple fallback options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of path acquisition mode from a fixed single mode to a multi-mode parameter that can be set to different values (compute new path, select from existing paths, or combination). This parameter change enables the system to adapt to different scenarios while maintaining reliable path acquisition through appropriate mode selection.
2Device complexity
If the PCE only stores network status information (Stateless PCE), then the system complexity is reduced, but the path computation functions are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the path acquisition function into two independent parts: (1) network status information storage (topology and resources) and (2) path information storage (already-established paths). This segmentation allows the PCE to maintain manageable complexity while providing rich path computation functions by combining results from both segments based on the requested acquisition mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the PCE universal by enabling it to perform multiple path acquisition functions: computing new paths based on network status, selecting from already-established paths, or combining both approaches. This multi-functionality is achieved without significantly increasing complexity through the use of path acquisition modes that control which function is executed.
3Device complexity
If the PCE returns computation failure information when unable to compute a new path, then the computation process is simple, but the PCC cannot acquire an available path
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the PCE, upon computing that a new path does not satisfy conditions, checks whether path selection from already-established paths is enabled and appropriate. Based on this feedback, the PCE either returns computation failure or alternatively selects an existing path, thereby improving path acquisition efficiency without significantly complicating the computation process through conditional logic.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a path request method. The method includes: receiving, by a stateful path computation element Stateful PCE, a path computation request message sent by a path computation client PCC, where the path computation request message includes first attribute information, and the first attribute information is used to designate an acquisition manner of a path requested by the PCC; acquiring, by the Stateful PCE, information of a path that conforms to a request of the PCC according to the first attribute information; and sending a path computation reply message to the PCC, where the path computation reply message includes the information of the path that conforms to the request of the PCC. Embodiments of the present disclosure also provide a stateful path computation element and a path computation client.