A Formal Model for Path Set Attribute Calculation in Network Systems

TL;DR

This paper introduces a formal mathematical model for characterizing sets of paths in network systems, addressing the gap in analyzing multiple paths based on various properties for improved decision-making.

Contribution

It presents a novel functional model for path set attribute calculation, enhancing the understanding of multiple path properties in network analysis.

Findings

The model effectively characterizes path sets based on different properties.

It provides a framework for analyzing multiple paths in network systems.

The approach generalizes existing single-path evaluation methods.

Abstract

In graph theory and its practical networking applications, e.g., telecommunications and transportation, the problem of finding paths has particular importance. Selecting paths requires giving scores to the alternative solutions to drive a choice. While previous studies have provided comprehensive evaluation of single-path solutions, the same level of detail is lacking when considering sets of paths. This paper emphasizes that the path characterization strongly depends on the properties under consideration. While property-based characterization is also valid for single paths, it becomes crucial to analyse multiple path sets. From the above consideration, this paper proposes a mathematical approach, defining a functional model that lends itself well to characterizing the path set in its general formulation. The paper shows how the functional model contextualizes specific attributes.