Virtual Switch for Seamless Computer System Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer system maintenance methods require stopping system operations to separate and restore maintenance objects, which is inefficient and disruptive.
Innovation Solution
A computer system with an integrated management apparatus and open flow controller that controls packet flow to separate and restore maintenance objects without stopping system operations, using a switch to transfer packets according to set flows and managing virtual machines and physical servers to facilitate maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the maintenance object unit is separated from the system to carry out maintenance processing, then the maintenance can be performed, but the system operation must be stopped
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a virtual switch as an intermediary component that decouples the maintenance object from the physical network infrastructure. By virtualizing the switching function and separating it from the physical switch, the maintenance object can be isolated and maintained while the virtual switch continues to route packets, ensuring system availability during maintenance operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the network function into multiple independent components: physical switch, virtual switch, and maintenance object. This segmentation allows the maintenance object to be separated for maintenance while the virtual switch and physical switch remain operational, enabling maintenance without system downtime
2Adaptability or versatility
If network management and IT management are carried out separately, then each side can manage its own components, but the maintenance process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges network management and IT management into a unified management framework. The management system can simultaneously control both the virtual switch (network component) and the maintenance object (IT component), allowing coordinated maintenance operations that reduce complexity and improve efficiency
3Ease of repair
If the maintenance object is separated by migrating to a standby system, then the maintenance can proceed, but the separation and restoration processes increase maintenance time
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual switch acts as a mediator that maintains packet routing functionality during the maintenance process. Instead of requiring full system migration to standby, the virtual switch continues to handle traffic while the maintenance object is isolated, significantly reducing the time required for maintenance operations
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system includes a control device configured to calculate a packet forwarding path and set a flow based on the packet forwarding path in a node, and a plurality of nodes configured to forward a received packet based on a flow set by the control device. The control device, when receiving a detour instruction, calculates a new packet forwarding path which detours a detour target node and sets a flow based on the new packet forwarding path in the plurality of nodes on the new packet forwarding path.