Virtual Network Controller Automates Multi-Protocol Service Chaining

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current data center networks require manual configuration of device-specific and vendor-specific procedures for provisioning physical network functions (PNFs) across tenants, which is inefficient and lacks automation for inter-tenant communication.

Innovation Solution

A virtual network controller automatically generates and deploys configuration data for integrated routing and bridging units within the data center switch fabric to direct traffic across multiple communication protocols and virtual networks, enabling automated inter-tenant service chaining without manual intervention, leveraging open standards like EVPN VxLAN.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual configuration of device-specific and vendor-specific procedures is used for provisioning PNFs, then flexibility in handling different device types is improved, but configuration time and operational complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility in handling different device typesVSAvoidconfiguration time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the configuration approach from manual device-specific procedures to automated parameter-based configuration. The system uses standardized parameters and templates that can be automatically applied across different device types, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining adaptability through parameter customization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service configuration where the network controller automatically generates and applies configuration data for PNF provisioning. The automation system itself performs the configuration tasks without human intervention, using predefined templates and policies to provision services across multiple device types efficiently.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If manual CLI command entry is used for PNF provisioning, then precise control over configuration is improved, but labor intensity and error probability increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecise control over configurationVSAvoidprovisioning efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual CLI command entry with an automated electronic configuration system. The network controller electronically generates and pushes configuration data to devices, substituting manual keyboard input with automated software-based configuration processes that maintain precision while eliminating labor-intensive operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary configuration management platform between the operator and the network devices. This intermediary automatically translates high-level service requirements into device-specific configuration commands, eliminating the need for operators to directly enter CLI commands while maintaining precise control over the configuration process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If vendor-specific configuration procedures are used, then device-specific optimization is improved, but system complexity and training requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice-specific configuration accuracyVSAvoidconfiguration system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal configuration system that can handle multiple vendor-specific device types through a single automated platform. The system uses standardized templates and parameters that can be adapted to different vendors' devices, providing device-specific optimization capabilities while maintaining a unified configuration approach that reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11792119B2Multi-protocol service chaining among devices of interconnected topology

Publication Date: 2023.10.17 JUNIPER NETWORKS INC

AI summary

Virtual network controllers are described that automatically generate policies and configuration data for routing traffic through physical network function (PNF) service chains in a multi-tenant data center. An example network controller includes a memory and processing circuitry configured to: automatically generate, for one or more integrated routing and bridging (IRB) units of corresponding virtual network forwarding tables of a switch of a switch fabric of a data center network, configuration information that, when deployed, causes the IRB units to direct data traffic conforming to multiple communication protocols and flowing over a plurality of virtual networks between a first set of server devices and a second set of server devices positioned outside of the switch fabric (i) toward a service device logically positioned outside of the switch fabric and coupled to the switch, and (ii) back from the service device into the switch fabric via the switch.