Interconnected Switch Matrix for Scalable Network Traffic Forwarding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Network service providers face challenges in accommodating increasing communication traffic volume while maintaining service levels and controlling costs, as existing network configurations are often costly and inflexible in scaling with traffic growth.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stage switching system comprising edge switches, core switches, and an interconnected matrix of switches that can form various topologies, allowing for scalable and cost-effective forwarding of communication traffic using non-proprietary protocols, enabling flexible scaling and component interchangeability across different vendors and generations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If network service providers use traditional network configurations to accommodate increasing communication traffic volume, then traffic capacity is improved, but capital costs and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The network is divided into three functional stages: edge switches connecting to external networks, core switches forming the backbone, and an interconnected matrix of switches between them. This segmentation allows each component to perform specific functions efficiently, scaling traffic capacity without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a middle stage with an interconnected matrix of switches between edge and core switches, adding a dimensional layer to the network architecture. This intermediate matrix stage processes traffic locally, reducing the burden on core switches and enabling scalable traffic handling without linear increases in core network complexity.
2Reliability
If network service providers implement robust protection mechanisms for reliability, then service level is improved, but capital costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The interconnected matrix of switches provides local redundancy and protection mechanisms at the middle stage, enabling failover and traffic rerouting locally without requiring complex centralized protection systems. Each switch in the matrix can independently handle failures, providing distributed reliability that reduces overall system complexity.
3Productivity
If network service providers use proprietary switching technologies to achieve performance, then traffic handling efficiency is improved, but adaptability and ease of manufacture decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs standard Ethernet switching protocols and non-proprietary interfaces throughout the network architecture, allowing switches from different vendors and generations to interoperate. The interconnected matrix uses universal switching fabrics and standardized protocols, enabling component interchangeability while maintaining efficient traffic handling through established technology standards.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to network communications. More specifically, embodiments relate to a system and method for switching data through a network. An embodiment of a switching system communicatively couples an external network to a wide area network. The system includes a plurality of edge switches communicatively coupled to the external network, a plurality of core switches communicatively coupled to the wide area network, and an interconnected matrix of switches communicatively coupled to the core switches and the edge switches and configured to forward communication traffic between the edge switches and the core switches.