NetSketch: Automated network configuration from hand-drawn topologies

Designing and configuring computer networks can be a complex and time-consuming process, often requiring expert knowledge and specialized tools. With the growing demand for more intuitive and efficient network design methodologies, this thesis explores the possibilities of computer vision technology as a solution. Specifically, this research seeks to address the following question: Can we simplify the network design process by utilizing computer vision technology to recognize hand-drawn computer networks and configure them automatically? We propose NetSketch, a novel system that integrates modern object detection techniques with classic image gradient-based computer vision algorithms. This system identifies network components from hand-drawn diagrams and employs network synthesis algorithms to automatically generate correct and resilient network models. Based on our evaluation, our network vision framework demonstrates over 99.5% accuracy in detecting network components and network links from hand-drawn diagrams. In addition, our vision synthesis component always generates configurations that meet network design requirements, leading to more efficient network planning and management. This work has the potential to improve network design processes, making them more intuitive and efficient, with applications in network management, education, and collaboration.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Electrical & Computer Engr

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2023

Author dc:creator

• Lu, Yuantao

Contributors dc:contributor

• Caesar, Matthew Chapman

• Hand-drawn Diagrams
• Computer Vision
• Network Synthesis

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2023 Yuantao Lu

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/122264

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F122264