Communication capacity adjustment device, communication network system, communication capacity adjustment method and program

Abstract

Even when multiple communication paths pass through a single transmission section in a communication network, the system will be able to dynamically update communication settings to prevent congestion. [Solution] The communication capacity adjustment device includes a communication capacity updating means that, if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a threshold, selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than a threshold, and updates the communication capacity set on the communication paths passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, and repeats this process until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a communication capacity adjustment device, a communication network system, a communication capacity adjustment method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] The communication settings may be dynamically updated according to changes in the state of the communication network. For example, in the method described in Patent Document 1, a timestamp request is sent to each router on the end-to-end path to obtain a timestamp value. Then, in this method, the available bandwidth in the end-to-end path is estimated using the obtained timestamp value. Estimating the available bandwidth can be regarded as setting the upper limit value of the bandwidth.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Even when a plurality of communication paths pass through one transmission section (one link) in the communication network, it is preferable that the communication settings can be dynamically updated so that congestion does not occur.

[0005] An example of the object of the present disclosure is to provide a communication capacity adjustment device, a communication network system, a communication capacity adjustment method, and a program that can solve the above-described problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, the communication capacity adjustment device includes a communication capacity updating means that, if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a threshold, selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than a threshold, and updates the communication capacity set on the communication paths passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, and repeats this process until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a communication network system comprises a transmission device and a communication capacity adjustment device, wherein the communication capacity adjustment device includes a communication capacity update means that, if there is one or more transmission sections in the communication network provided by the transmission device where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a set threshold, the device selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, and updates the communication capacity set on the communication paths passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, and repeats this process until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section.

[0008] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, the communication capacity adjustment method includes a computer selecting one transmission section whose bandwidth utilization rate is greater than a threshold if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than a threshold, and updating the communication capacity set on the communication paths passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, the program causes a computer to perform the following actions: if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a threshold, the program selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than a threshold, and updates the communication capacity set on the communication paths passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, and repeats this process until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to one aspect of this disclosure, even when multiple communication paths pass through a single transmission section in a communication network, communication settings can be dynamically updated to prevent congestion. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a communication network system according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a communication device according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a transmission device according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a management device according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a procedure for setting QoS parameter values ​​in a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows a first example of the state and configuration of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows a first example of a bar graph-like representation of the state and settings of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows a second example of the state and configuration of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows a second example of a bar graph-like representation of the state and settings of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows a third example of the state and configuration of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows a third example of a bar graph-like representation of the state and settings of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure shows a fourth example of the state and configuration of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure shows a fourth example of a bar graph-like representation of the state and settings of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure shows a fifth example of the state and configuration of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 15] This figure shows a fifth example of a bar graph-like representation of the state and settings of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 16] This figure shows a sixth example of the state and configuration of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a sixth example of a bar graph representation of the state and settings of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a seventh example of the state and settings of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a seventh example of a bar graph representation of the state and settings of a communication network according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a procedure of a process in which a QoS calculation unit according to at least one embodiment calculates a QoS parameter value. [Figure 21] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a communication capacity adjustment device according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a communication network system according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a procedure of a process in a communication capacity adjustment method according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described below.

[0013] <First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a communication network system according to at least one embodiment. It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the system. In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the communication network system 1 includes a management device 100 and a communication network 200. The communication network 200 includes a transmission device 210. Also, in FIG. 1, a communication device 300 is shown. The communication device 300 may be part of the communication network system 1. Alternatively, the communication device 300 may be an external configuration of the communication network system 1.

[0014] The communication network system 1 communicates with the communication devices 300 via the communication network 200. Communication device 300 communicates with other communication devices 300 via the communication network 200. The following explanation uses the example of unicast communication between two communication devices 300. However, three or more communication devices 300 may communicate using multicast or broadcast.

[0015] The transmission device 210 forms a communication network 200. One transmission device 210 constitutes one node of the communication network 200. The transmission device 210 transmits communication data between communication devices 300. The portion of the communication network 200 between two transmission devices 210 that communicate directly corresponds to a link in the communication network 200. A link in the communication network 200 is also called a transmission section. The amount of data that can be transmitted per unit time in each transmission section is also called the transmission capacity of that transmission section, or the transmission capacity of that transmission section.

[0016] The management device 100 manages the Quality of Service (QoS) of communication between the communication devices 300. In particular, the management device 100 determines the upper limit of the amount of data that can be transmitted per unit time for the communication path between the communication devices 300. The amount of data that can be transmitted per unit time for a communication path is also referred to as the communication capacity of that communication path, or the communication capacity of that communication path. The amount of data that can be transmitted per unit time for a communication path can also be referred to as the bandwidth of that communication path, or the upper limit setting value of the communication speed. The management device 100 can be considered an example of a Network Management System (NMS). The management device 100 may be configured using a computer such as a workstation (WS).

[0017] The communication path between communication devices 300 is also simply referred to as a communication path. The communication path is also referred to as a path. The communication path may, but is not limited to, being used as a virtual LAN (Virtual Local Area Network; VLAN). Communication capacity is an example of a QoS parameter value. The management device 100 determines the QoS parameter value for each communication path.

[0018] The following explanation uses the case where two transmission devices 210 communicate wirelessly as an example. That is, the explanation assumes that the communication network 200 is a wireless communication network. In a wireless communication network, the transmission capacity in a certain transmission section may temporarily change due to external factors such as rainfall. Therefore, when the transmission capacity in a certain transmission section temporarily decreases (falls), the management device 100 reduces the communication capacity in the communication path passing through that transmission section to prevent congestion. In this context, a communication path that passes through a certain transmission section is a communication path that uses that transmission section as part of its communication path.

[0019] However, the communication network 200 is not limited to wireless communication networks, but can be various communication networks in which the transmission capacity may change. For example, multiple communication networks may share one or more transmission paths (links), and the allocation of communication capacity in that transmission path to each communication network may be dynamically updated. Furthermore, the transmission device 210 and the communication device 300 may be configured as an integrated unit. For example, the transmission device 210 may have the functions of both the transmission device 210 and the communication device 300.

[0020] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the communication device 300. In the configuration shown in Figure 2, the communication device 300 comprises a QoS setting unit 301 and a terminal-side communication unit 302. The QoS setting unit 301 sets the QoS parameter values ​​determined by the management device 100 for the communication path in its own device's communication as the QoS parameter values ​​for communication by its own management device 100. In this context, "its own device" refers to the device that comprises a part of a particular device. In particular, the QoS setting unit 301 sets the communication capacity determined by the management device 100 as the communication capacity for the communication performed by its own communication device 300 (the communication capacity of the communication path in the communication performed by its own communication device 300).

[0021] The terminal-side communication unit 302 communicates with the terminal-side communication unit 302 of other communication devices 300 via the communication network 200. During this communication, the terminal-side communication unit 302 communicates according to the QoS parameter values ​​set by the QoS setting unit 301. In particular, the terminal-side communication unit 302 communicates at a communication speed less than or equal to the communication capacity set by the QoS setting unit 301. The communication device 300 can be considered as a device at the end of a communication path using the communication network 200. In this respect, the communication device 300 can be considered as a communication terminal device for the communication network 200.

[0022] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the transmission device 210. In the configuration shown in Figure 3, the transmission device 210 comprises a transmission capacity measurement unit 211, a network communication unit 212, and a terminal communication unit 213. The transmission capacity measurement unit 211 measures the transmission capacity in the transmission section (the link directly connected to the transmission device 210) through which its own transmission device 210 communicates. If there are multiple transmission sections through which the transmission device 210 communicates, the transmission capacity measurement unit 211 measures the transmission capacity for each transmission section.

[0023] The transmission capacity measurement unit 211 notifies the management device 100 of the measurement result of the transmission capacity. For example, with regard to the communication of the transmission capacity measurement results, the management device 100 may be treated as a communication device 300. The transmission capacity measurement unit 211 may transmit the transmission capacity measurement results to the management device 100 via the terminal communication unit 213. Alternatively, the transmission capacity measurement unit 211 may transmit the transmission capacity measurement results to the management device 100 via the network communication unit 212 and one or more other transmission devices 210. The transmission capacity measurement unit 211 may be configured to notify the management device 100 of the transmission capacity measurement result only when the transmission capacity changes.

[0024] The method by which the transmission capacity measurement unit 211 measures the transmission capacity in the transmission section is not limited to a specific method. The transmission capacity measurement unit 211 may use a known method for measuring the transmission capacity in the transmission section. The transmission device 210 at either end of the transmission path (link) may be configured to measure the transmission capacity. In addition to, or instead of, the transmission device 210, the communication device 300 may be configured to estimate the transmission capacity in the transmission section. In this case, in addition to, or instead of, the transmission device 210, the communication device 300 may be equipped with a transmission capacity measuring unit 211.

[0025] The network communication unit 212 performs communication using the communication network 200. In particular, the network communication unit 212 communicates with the network communication units 212 of other transmission devices 210 (transmission of communication data between communication devices 300). The communication performed by the network communication unit 212 can be considered as a function of the transmission device 210 as a node of the communication network 200.

[0026] The terminal communication unit 213 communicates with the terminal-side communication unit 302 of the communication device 300. In particular, the terminal communication unit 213 sends and receives communication data between the terminal-side communication unit 302 and the communication device 300. The terminal communication unit 213 instructs the network communication unit 212 to transmit the communication data received from the communication device 300 to the communication device 300 of the communication partner via the communication network 200. The terminal communication unit 213 also transmits the communication data received by the network communication unit 212 from the communication device 300 of the communication partner via the communication network 200 to the communication device 300 (the communication device 300 with which the terminal communication unit 213 itself is connected).

[0027] Multiple communication devices 300 may be able to communicate with one transmission device 210 simultaneously. Alternatively, there may be one transmission device 210 that is not connected to a communication device 300. The communication method between the terminal communication unit 213 and the terminal-side communication unit 302 of the communication device 300 is not limited to a specific communication method. The terminal communication unit 213 and the terminal-side communication unit 302 may communicate wirelessly or via a wired connection.

[0028] In the following explanation, we will describe the case where the communication speed between the communication device 300 and the transmission device 210 (communication between the terminal-side communication unit 302 and the terminal-to-terminal communication unit 213) can be increased or decreased by the communication capacity set for the relevant communication path. Alternatively, the communication path between the communication device 300 and the transmission device 210 may also be included as part of the communication network 200, and may be included in the measurement of transmission capacity and in the calculation of QoS parameter values ​​by the management device 100.

[0029] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of the management device 100. In the configuration shown in Figure 4, the management device 100 comprises a management-side communication unit 110, a management-side storage unit 180, and a management-side processing unit 190. The management-side storage unit 180 comprises a path information storage unit 181, a transmission capacity information storage unit 182, and a QoS information storage unit 183. The management-side processing unit 190 comprises a transmission capacity information update unit 191 and a QoS calculation unit 192.

[0030] The management communication unit 110 communicates with other devices. In particular, the management communication unit 110 receives the transmission capacity measurement value from the transmission capacity measurement unit 211 of the transmission device 210. The management communication unit 110 may also receive the transmission capacity measurement value from the transmission device 210 via the communication network 200. Furthermore, the management communication unit 110 transmits the QoS parameter values ​​determined by the management device 100 to the communication device 300. The management communication unit 110 may also transmit the QoS parameter values ​​to the communication device 300 via the communication network 200.

[0031] The management-side storage unit 180 stores various types of data. The management-side storage unit 180 is configured using the storage devices provided by the management device 100. The path information storage unit 181 stores information that links a communication path with the transmission section through which that communication path passes. This information that links a communication path with the transmission section through which that communication path passes is also called path information. The path information stored in the path information storage unit 181 allows for searching for transmission sections from communication paths, and searching for communication paths from transmission sections.

[0032] The transmission capacity information storage unit 182 stores information indicating the transmission capacity (measured value) for each transmission section. This information indicating the transmission capacity for each transmission section is also referred to as transmission capacity information. The QoS information storage unit 183 stores information indicating QoS parameter values ​​for each communication path. This information indicating QoS parameter values ​​for each communication path is also referred to as QoS information. The QoS information stored by the QoS information storage unit 183 specifically indicates the communication capacity for each communication path.

[0033] The management-side processing unit 190 controls various parts of the management device 100 to perform various processes. The functions of the management-side processing unit 190 may also be performed, for example, by the CPU (Central Processing Unit) of the management device 100 reading a program from the management-side storage unit 180 and executing it.

[0034] The transmission capacity information update unit 191 updates the transmission capacity information stored in the transmission capacity information storage unit 182. Specifically, when the management communication unit 110 receives a measured value of the transmission capacity, the transmission capacity information update unit 191 writes the received transmission capacity to the transmission capacity information of the transmission capacity information update unit 191. The transmission capacity information update unit 191 may also be configured to update the transmission capacity information only when the transmission capacity changes.

[0035] The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the QoS parameter values ​​and determines the calculated values. The QoS calculation unit 192 is an example of a means for updating communication capacity. Specifically, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates QoS parameter values ​​for each communication path and writes the calculated values ​​to the QoS information in the QoS information storage unit 183. The act of the QoS calculation unit 192 writing QoS parameter values ​​to the QoS information in the QoS information storage unit 183 can be understood as determining the QoS parameter values.

[0036] In particular, when the transmission capacity in a certain transmission section changes, the QoS calculation unit 192 determines (updates) the communication capacity in each communication path passing through that transmission section so that the total communication capacity of the communication paths passing through that transmission section does not exceed the changed transmission capacity. More specifically, the QoS calculation unit 192 determines the communication capacity for each communication path passing through a given transmission section, such that the ratio obtained by dividing the sum of the communication capacities set for each communication path by the transmission capacity in that transmission section is less than or equal to a threshold.

[0037] For all communication paths passing through a given transmission section, the ratio obtained by dividing the total communication capacity set for that communication path by the transmission capacity of that transmission section is called the bandwidth utilization rate, or simply the utilization rate. The threshold for bandwidth utilization is also called the utilization limit threshold, or simply the threshold. The utilization limit threshold is set to a value within the range of 0% to 100%.

[0038] For example, in order to make the most effective use of the transmission capacity in a transmission path, the upper limit threshold for utilization in that transmission path may be set to 100%. Alternatively, in order to provide a margin of safety in the transmission capacity so that congestion does not occur when the transmission capacity changes, the upper limit threshold for utilization may be set to a value smaller than 100%, such as 80%. The usage limit threshold may be predetermined for each transmission section by the administrator of the communication network 200.

[0039] Figure 5 shows an example of the procedure for setting QoS parameter values ​​in the communication network 200. In the process shown in Figure 5, the transmission capacity measurement unit 211 of the transmission device 210 measures the transmission capacity in the transmission path (link) directly connected to its own transmission device 210 (step S101). The transmission capacity measurement unit 211 may measure the transmission capacity periodically. Alternatively, the transmission capacity measurement unit 211 may measure the transmission capacity in response to the occurrence of some event, such as a change in weather or a change in the communication speed of its own transmission device 210.

[0040] The transmission capacity measurement unit 211 notifies the management device 100 of the measured transmission capacity (step S102). For example, the transmission capacity measurement unit 211 transmits transmission capacity information indicating the measured transmission capacity to the management device 100 via the network communication unit 212 and the communication network 200, or via the terminal communication unit 213.

[0041] Next, the transmission capacity information update unit 191 of the management device 100 updates the transmission capacity information stored in the transmission capacity information storage unit 182 (step S111). Specifically, the transmission capacity information update unit 191 updates the transmission capacity information so that the measured transmission capacity notified by the transmission capacity measurement unit 211 is reflected in the transmission capacity information stored in the transmission capacity information storage unit 182.

[0042] Furthermore, the transmission capacity information update unit 191 notifies the QoS calculation unit 192 that the transmission capacity information has been updated (step S112). This notification that the transmission capacity information has been updated is also referred to as the transmission capacity information update notification. Upon receiving the transmission capacity information update notification, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the QoS parameter values ​​based on the updated transmission capacity (steps S121 to S123).

[0043] In calculating QoS parameter values, the QoS calculation unit 192 reads the transmission capacity information stored in the transmission capacity information storage unit 182 (step S121). Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 reads out the QoS information stored in the QoS information storage unit 183 (step S122).

[0044] Then, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates QoS parameter values ​​that prevent congestion in each transmission section based on the acquired transmission capacity information and QoS information (step S123). In particular, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the communication capacity for each communication path such that the bandwidth utilization rate in each transmission section does not exceed a threshold.

[0045] Then, the QoS calculation unit 192 notifies the communication device 300 of the calculated QoS parameter values ​​(step S124). Specifically, the QoS calculation unit 192 transmits the calculated QoS parameter values ​​to the communication device 300 via the management communication unit 110 and the communication network 200. Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 updates the QoS information stored in the QoS information storage unit 183 (step S125). Specifically, the QoS calculation unit 192 overwrites the QoS parameter values ​​stored in the QoS information storage unit 183 with the calculated values.

[0046] Upon receiving the QoS parameter value, the communication device 300 updates the QoS parameter value set as the communication setting by the terminal-side communication unit 302 with the received QoS parameter value (step S131).

[0047] Figure 6 shows a first example of the state and configuration of the communication network 200. In the example in Figure 6, the communication network 200 is composed of four transmission devices 210. When distinguishing between these four transmission devices 210, they are also referred to as transmission device 210-1, 210-2, 210-3, and 210-4.

[0048] Furthermore, links (transmission paths) are established between transmission devices 210-1 and 210-2, between transmission devices 210-2 and 210-3, and between transmission devices 210-2 and 210-4. The section between transmission devices 210-1 and 210-2 is also referred to as transmission section RA. The section between transmission devices 210-2 and 210-3 is also referred to as transmission section RB. The section between transmission devices 210-2 and 210-4 is also referred to as transmission section RC.

[0049] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 6, four communication devices 300 are connected to the communication network 200. To distinguish between these four communication devices 300, they are also referred to as communication device 300-1, 300-2, 300-3, and 300-4. Communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 are each connected to transmission device 210-1. Communication device 300-3 is connected to transmission device 210-3. Communication device 300-4 is connected to transmission device 210-4.

[0050] Furthermore, communication devices 300-1 and 300-3 communicate with each other, and communication devices 300-2 and 300-4 communicate with each other. The communication path between communication devices 300-1 and 300-3 is also referred to as communication path Pa. Communication path Pa passes through transmission sections RA and RB. The communication path between communication devices 300-2 and 300-4 is also referred to as communication path Pb. Communication path Pb passes through transmission sections RA and RC.

[0051] For example, in mobile backhaul, the network may take the form of a tree structure as illustrated in Figure 6, and it may be difficult to switch communication paths to bypass congestion when transmission capacity deteriorates. In this case, QoS control can be used to adjust the network to prevent congestion.

[0052] The mobile backhaul referred to here is a communication network consisting of multiple wireless base stations (transmission devices in the example in Figure 6). The mobile backhaul may be connected to the core network (backbone line). In the example in Figure 6, the transmission device 210-1 may communicate with communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 respectively via the core network.

[0053] In the example in Figure 6, the communication capacity on communication path Pa is set to 80 megabits per second (Mbps). The communication capacity on communication path Pb is also set to 80 megabits per second. The communication capacity in either communication path Pa or Pb can be set within a range from 0 megabits per second to 80 megabits per second. The range of communication capacity that can be set in a communication path may be determined according to the specifications of the equipment, such as the specifications of the communication device 300. Alternatively, the range of communication capacity that can be set in a communication path may be determined artificially, such as by specifying it in the communication service provision contract.

[0054] The transmission capacity in transmission section RA is 200 megabits per second. The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RA as (80 + 80) / 200 = 80%. The transmission capacity in transmission section RB is also 200 megabits per second. The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RB as 80 / 200 = 40%. The transmission capacity in transmission section RC is also 200 megabits per second. The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RC as 80 / 200 = 40%.

[0055] In all transmission sections RA, RB, and RC, the bandwidth utilization rate is below 100%, suggesting that congestion is not occurring. Furthermore, in all of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC, the utilization rate upper threshold is set to 100%. In all of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC, the bandwidth utilization rate is less than or equal to the utilization rate upper threshold.

[0056] Figure 7 shows a first example of a bar graph-style representation of the status and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 7 shows an example of a bar graph-style representation of the status and settings of the communication network 200 in Figure 6. In the example in Figure 7, the transmission capacity in each of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC is shown by the height of the solid rectangles. The communication capacity in each of the communication paths Pa and Pb is shown by the height of the dashed rectangles.

[0057] The bandwidth utilization rate in each transmission section is expressed as the ratio obtained by dividing the sum of the heights representing the communication capacity in the communication path passing through that transmission section by the height representing the transmission capacity in that transmission section. In the example in Figure 7, in all of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC, the height representing the transmission capacity is greater than the sum of the heights representing the communication capacity, indicating that congestion does not occur. The management device 100 may also visually represent the status and settings of the communication network 200, as shown in the example in Figure 7.

[0058] Figure 8 shows a second example of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 8 shows an example where the transmission capacity changes from the example in Figure 6. In the example shown in Figure 8, the transmission capacity in transmission section RA is 100 megabits per second. The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RA as 160 / 100 = 160%. Furthermore, the transmission capacity in transmission section RB is set to 40 megabits per second. The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RB as 80 / 40 = 200%.

[0059] Thus, the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than 100% in both transmission sections RA and RB, and congestion may occur in these transmission sections. Furthermore, in both transmission sections RA and RB, the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the upper limit threshold. In this case, the QoS calculation unit 192 updates the QoS parameter values ​​so that the bandwidth utilization rate falls below the threshold.

[0060] Figure 9 shows a second example of a bar graph-style representation of the status and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 9 shows an example of a bar graph-style representation of the status and settings of the communication network 200 in Figure 8. In the example in Figure 9, the transmission capacity in each of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC is shown by the height of the solid rectangles. Similarly, the communication capacity in each of the communication paths Pa and Pb is shown by the height of the dashed rectangles.

[0061] In the example in Figure 9, the sum of the heights representing the communication capacity in communication path Pa and communication path Pb is greater than the height representing the transmission capacity in transmission section RA. This indicates that congestion may occur in transmission section RA. Furthermore, the height indicating the communication capacity in the communication path Pa is greater than the height indicating the transmission capacity in the transmission section RB. This indicates that congestion may occur in the transmission section RB.

[0062] Figure 10 shows a third example of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 10 shows the first example from the example in Figure 8, where the QoS calculation unit 192 has performed the first adjustment of the QoS parameter values. Referring to Figure 8, which shows the state before calculation in the example in Figure 10, the bandwidth utilization rates of transmission sections RA and RB are greater than the utilization upper threshold. In the example in Figure 10, the QoS calculation unit 192 selects transmission section RA from among transmission sections RA and RB, where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold.

[0063] In the example in Figure 10, transmission section RA corresponds to the transmission section with the smallest difference between the bandwidth utilization rate and the threshold, among transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. Furthermore, transmission section RA also corresponds to the transmission section with the largest number of communication paths passing through it, among transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold.

[0064] The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the communication capacity in each of the communication paths Pa and Pb passing through the transmission section RA so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section RA becomes 100%, which is the upper limit threshold for utilization. Specifically, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates (80+80)-100=60 [Mbps] as the communication capacity to be subtracted, by subtracting the transmission capacity in the transmission section RA from the sum of the (pre-change) communication capacities of the communication paths Pa and Pb. The QoS calculation unit 192 then distributes the communication capacity to be subtracted according to the 80:80 ratio of communication capacities between communication paths Pa and Pb, and calculates that the communication capacity to be subtracted for communication paths Pa and Pb is 30 megabits per second, and 30 megabits per second, respectively.

[0065] The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the communication capacity on communication path Pa as 80 - 30 = 50 [Mbps]. The QoS calculation unit 192 also calculates the communication capacity on communication path Pb as 80 - 30 = 50 [Mbps]. Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RA based on the calculated communication capacity as (50+50) / 100=100%. The QoS calculation unit 192 also calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RB based on the calculated communication capacity as 50 / 40=125%. Finally, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RC based on the calculated communication capacity as 50 / 200=25%.

[0066] Thus, the bandwidth utilization in transmission section RB is greater than 100%, and congestion may occur in transmission section RB. Furthermore, in transmission section RB, the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the upper limit threshold. Therefore, the QoS calculation unit 192 recalculates the QoS parameter values ​​so that the bandwidth utilization rate falls below the threshold.

[0067] Figure 11 shows a third example of a bar graph-style representation of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 11 shows an example of a bar graph-style representation of the state and settings of the communication network 200 based on the communication capacity calculated by the QoS calculation unit 192 in Figure 10. In the example in Figure 11, the transmission capacity in each of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC is shown by the height of the solid rectangles. Similarly, the communication capacity in each of the communication paths Pa and Pb is shown by the height of the dashed rectangles.

[0068] In the example shown in Figure 11, the height indicating the transmission capacity in transmission section RA is equal to the sum of the height indicating the communication capacity in communication path Pa and the height indicating the communication capacity in communication path Pb. This indicates that congestion does not occur in transmission section RA. On the other hand, the height indicating the communication capacity in the communication path Pa is greater than the height indicating the transmission capacity in the transmission section RB. This indicates that congestion may occur in the transmission section RB.

[0069] Figure 12 shows a fourth example of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 12 shows an example where the QoS calculation unit 192 has performed a second adjustment of the QoS parameter values, based on the example in Figure 10. Referring to Figure 10, which shows the state before calculation in the example in Figure 12, the only transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold is transmission section RB. In the example in Figure 12, the QoS calculation unit 192 selects transmission section RB.

[0070] The QoS calculation unit 192 then calculates the communication capacity in the communication path Pa passing through the transmission section RB so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section RB becomes 100%, which is the upper limit threshold for utilization. Specifically, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the communication capacity in the communication path Pa as 40 megabits per second, which is equal to the transmission capacity in the transmission section RB.

[0071] Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RB based on the calculated communication capacity as 40 / 40 = 100%. Also, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RA based on the calculated communication capacity as (40 + 50) / 100 = 90%.

[0072] In the example shown in Figure 12, the bandwidth utilization rate is 100% or less in all of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC, suggesting that congestion is not occurring. Furthermore, in both transmission sections RA and RC through which communication path Pb passes, the bandwidth utilization rate is lower than the utilization rate threshold. In addition, the communication capacity of communication path Pb is calculated to be 50 megabits per second, which is lower than the upper limit of 80 megabits per second.

[0073] Thus, if there is a communication path in which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than the upper limit threshold for utilization, and the communication capacity in that communication path is less than the settable upper limit, then it can be considered that there is room to increase the communication capacity in that communication path. Therefore, the QoS calculation unit 192 recalculates the QoS parameter values ​​to increase the communication capacity in that communication path.

[0074] Figure 13 shows a fourth example of a bar graph-style representation of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 13 shows an example of a bar graph-style representation of the state and settings of the communication network 200 based on the communication capacity calculated by the QoS calculation unit 192 in Figure 12. In the example in Figure 13, the transmission capacity in each of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC is shown by the height of the solid rectangles. Similarly, the communication capacity in each of the communication paths Pa and Pb is shown by the height of the dashed rectangles.

[0075] In the example in Figure 13, in all of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC, the height indicating the transmission capacity is equal to or greater than the sum of the heights indicating the communication capacity, indicating that congestion does not occur. Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 13, the bandwidth utilization is less than 100% in both transmission sections RA and RC through which the communication path Pb passes. This indicates that (depending on the upper threshold for utilization) it may be possible to increase the communication capacity in the communication path Pb. A bandwidth utilization rate less than 100% is indicated by the sum of the heights representing communication capacity being less than the height representing transmission capacity.

[0076] When the management device 100 visually represents the status and settings of the communication network 200, as shown in the example in Figure 13, it may visually represent, in addition to or instead of, the transmission capacity multiplied by the utilization limit threshold. By comparing the magnitude of the value obtained by multiplying the transmission capacity by the utilization limit threshold with the magnitude of the total communication capacity, it is possible to determine whether or not the QoS parameter values ​​need to be changed and whether or not the communication capacity can be increased.

[0077] Figure 14 shows a fifth example of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 14 shows an example where the QoS calculation unit 192 has performed the third adjustment of the QoS parameter values, as in the example in Figure 12. In the example shown in Figure 14, the QoS calculation unit 192 recalculates the QoS parameter values ​​so that the communication capacity in the communication path Pb becomes larger.

[0078] Specifically, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the potential increase in transmission capacity in transmission section RA as 100-90=10 [Mbps]. The QoS calculation unit 192 also calculates the potential increase in transmission capacity in transmission section RC as 200-50=150 [Mbps]. The QoS calculation unit 192 then selects the smallest of the calculated possible increases, 10 megabits per second, as the possible increase in communication capacity on the communication path Pb. The QoS calculation unit 192 then calculates the increased communication capacity on the communication path Pb as 50 + 10 = 60 [Mbps].

[0079] Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RA based on the calculated communication capacity as (40+60) / 100=100%. The QoS calculation unit 192 also calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RC based on the calculated communication capacity as 60 / 200=30%.

[0080] Figure 15 shows a fifth example of a bar graph-style representation of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 15 shows an example of a bar graph-style representation of the state and settings of the communication network 200 based on the communication capacity calculated by the QoS calculation unit 192 in Figure 14. In the example in Figure 15, the transmission capacity in each of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC is shown by the height of the solid rectangles. Similarly, the communication capacity in each of the communication paths Pa and Pb is shown by the height of the dashed rectangles.

[0081] In the example in Figure 15, in all of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC, the height indicating the transmission capacity is equal to or greater than the sum of the heights indicating the communication capacity, indicating that congestion does not occur. Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 15, it is demonstrated that in transmission section RA, through which both communication paths Pa and Pb pass, the total communication capacity is equal to the transmission capacity. This indicates that there is no surplus transmission capacity available to increase the communication capacity for either communication path Pa or Pb.

[0082] Figure 16 shows a sixth example of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 16 shows a second example from the example in Figure 8, where the QoS calculation unit 192 has performed the first adjustment of the QoS parameter values. Referring to Figure 8, which shows the state before calculation in the example in Figure 16, the bandwidth utilization rates of transmission sections RA and RB are greater than the utilization upper threshold. In the example in Figure 16, the QoS calculation unit 192 selects transmission section RB from transmission sections RA and RB, where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold.

[0083] In the example in Figure 16, transmission section RB corresponds to the transmission section with the largest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. Furthermore, transmission section RB also corresponds to the transmission section with the fewest number of communication paths passing through it among transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold.

[0084] The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the communication capacity in the communication path Pa passing through the transmission section RB so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section RB becomes 100%, which is the upper threshold for utilization. Specifically, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the communication capacity in the communication path Pa as 40 megabits per second, which is equal to the transmission capacity in the transmission section RB.

[0085] Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RB based on the calculated communication capacity as 40 / 40 = 100%. The QoS calculation unit 192 also calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RA based on the calculated communication capacity as (40 + 80) / 100 = 120%.

[0086] Thus, the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RA is greater than 100%, and congestion may occur in transmission section RA. Furthermore, in transmission section RA, the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the upper limit threshold for utilization. Therefore, the QoS calculation unit 192 recalculates the QoS parameter values ​​so that the bandwidth utilization rate falls below the threshold.

[0087] Figure 17 shows a sixth example of a bar graph-style representation of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 17 shows an example of a bar graph-style representation of the state and settings of the communication network 200 based on the communication capacity calculated by the QoS calculation unit 192 in Figure 16. In the example in Figure 17, the transmission capacity in each of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC is shown by the height of the solid rectangles. Similarly, the communication capacity in each of the communication paths Pa and Pb is shown by the height of the dashed rectangles.

[0088] In the example in Figure 17, the height representing the transmission capacity in transmission section RB is equal to the height representing the communication capacity in communication path Pa. This indicates that congestion does not occur in transmission section RB. On the other hand, the sum of the heights representing communication capacity in communication path Pa and communication capacity in communication path Pb is greater than the height representing transmission capacity in transmission section RA. This indicates that congestion may occur in transmission section RA.

[0089] Figure 18 shows a seventh example of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 18 shows an example where the QoS calculation unit 192 has performed a second adjustment of the QoS parameter values, as in the example in Figure 16. Referring to Figure 16, which shows the state before calculation in the example in Figure 18, the only transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold is transmission section RA. In the example in Figure 18, the QoS calculation unit 192 selects transmission section RA.

[0090] The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the communication capacity in each of the communication paths Pa and Pb passing through the transmission section RA so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section RA becomes 100%, which is the upper limit threshold for utilization. Specifically, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates (40+80)-100=20 [Mbps] as the communication capacity to be subtracted, by subtracting the transmission capacity in transmission section RA from the sum of the (pre-change) communication capacities of communication paths Pa and Pb. The QoS calculation unit 192 then distributes the communication capacity to be subtracted according to the ratio of the communication capacities of communication paths Pa and Pb, which is 40:80, and calculates that the communication capacity to be subtracted for communication paths Pa and Pb is 7 megabits per second and 13 megabits per second, respectively.

[0091] The QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the communication capacity on communication path Pa as 40-7=33 [Mbps]. The QoS calculation unit 192 also calculates the communication capacity on communication path Pb as 80-13=67 [Mbps]. Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RA based on the calculated communication capacity as (33 + 67) / 100 = 100%. Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RB based on the calculated communication capacity as 33 / 40 = 82.5%. Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in transmission section RC based on the calculated communication capacity as 67 / 200 = 33.5%.

[0092] In the example shown in Figure 18, the bandwidth utilization rate is 100% or less in all transmission sections RA, RB, and RC, suggesting that congestion is not occurring. Furthermore, in transmission section RA, which is traversed by both communication paths Pa and Pb, the total communication capacity is equal to the transmission capacity. Therefore, it can be determined that there is no surplus transmission capacity available to increase the communication capacity for either communication path Pa or Pb.

[0093] Figure 19 shows a seventh example of a bar graph-style representation of the state and settings of the communication network 200. Figure 19 shows an example of a bar graph-style representation of the state and settings of the communication network 200 based on the communication capacity calculated by the QoS calculation unit 192 in Figure 18. In the example in Figure 19, the transmission capacity in each of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC is shown by the height of the solid rectangles. Similarly, the communication capacity in each of the communication paths Pa and Pb is shown by the height of the dashed rectangles.

[0094] In the example in Figure 19, in all of the transmission sections RA, RB, and RC, the height indicating the transmission capacity is equal to or greater than the sum of the heights indicating the communication capacity, indicating that congestion does not occur. Furthermore, the example in Figure 19 shows that in transmission section RA, through which both communication paths Pa and Pb pass, the total communication capacity is equal to the transmission capacity. This indicates that there is no surplus transmission capacity to increase the communication capacity for either communication path Pa or Pb.

[0095] As shown in the example in Figure 10, the QoS calculation unit 192 may select the transmission section with the smallest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. In this case, the QoS calculation unit 192 can be seen as selecting the transmission section that results in the smallest amount of correction (subtraction) of the communication capacity and correcting the communication capacity. The QoS calculation unit 192 can be seen as correcting the communication capacity gradually, and in this respect, it is expected that the communication capacity can be corrected in a relatively similar manner. In this context, "modifying communication capacity relatively similarly" means that the difference in the modification rate (the ratio of the modified communication capacity to the original communication capacity) or the amount of modification across different communication paths is relatively small.

[0096] In the example shown in Figure 10, the QoS calculation unit 192 can be seen as selecting the transmission section with the largest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. When the QoS calculation unit 192 makes such a selection, it can be seen as allocating the amount of communication capacity correction to a relatively large number of communication paths. In this respect, it is expected that the QoS calculation unit 192 can correct the communication capacity in a relatively similar manner.

[0097] Alternatively, as shown in the example in Figure 16, the QoS calculation unit 192 may select the transmission section with the largest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. In this case, the QoS calculation unit 192 can be seen as selecting the transmission section that results in the largest amount of correction (subtraction) of the communication capacity and correcting the communication capacity. The QoS calculation unit 192 can be seen as correcting the communication capacity all at once, and in this respect, it is expected that the number of times the QoS calculation unit 192 adjusts the QoS parameter values ​​will be relatively small.

[0098] In the example shown in Figure 16, the QoS calculation unit 192 can be seen as selecting the transmission section with the fewest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. When the QoS calculation unit 192 makes such a selection, the amount of correction for communication capacity is allocated to a relatively small number of communication paths, and the amount of correction for communication capacity in a single communication path can be seen as relatively large. In this respect, it can be expected that the QoS calculation unit 192 will adjust the QoS parameter values ​​relatively infrequently.

[0099] Figure 20 shows an example of the procedure for the QoS calculation unit 192 to calculate QoS parameter values. The QoS calculation unit 192 performs the process shown in Figure 20 in steps S121 to S123 of Figure 5.

[0100] In the process shown in Figure 20, the QoS calculation unit 192 acquires data to be used in calculating QoS parameter values ​​(step S201). For example, as shown in step S121 of Figure 5, the QoS calculation unit 192 reads transmission capacity information from the transmission capacity information storage unit 182. Also, as shown in step S122 of Figure 5, the QoS calculation unit 192 reads QoS information from the QoS information storage unit 183. Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 reads path information from the path information storage unit 181.

[0101] Next, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate for the transmission section where the transmission capacity has changed, based on the changed transmission capacity and the communication capacity set for the communication path passing through that transmission section (step S202). The changed transmission capacity is shown in the transmission capacity information read from the transmission capacity information storage unit 182.

[0102] Next, the QoS calculation unit 192 determines whether there is a transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the utilization rate upper threshold (step S203). If the QoS calculation unit 192 determines that there is a transmission section in which the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the upper limit threshold (step S203: YES), it selects one of the transmission sections in which the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the upper limit threshold (step S211).

[0103] The method by which the QoS calculation unit 192 selects one transmission section from among those transmission sections in which the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the utilization rate upper threshold is not limited to a specific method. As described above, the QoS calculation unit 192 may select the transmission section with the smallest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. Alternatively, the QoS calculation unit 192 may select the transmission section with the largest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold.

[0104] Alternatively, the QoS calculation unit 192 may select the transmission section with the largest number of communication paths passing through it, among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. Alternatively, the QoS calculation unit 192 may select the transmission section with the smallest number of communication paths passing through it, among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold.

[0105] Alternatively, the QoS calculation unit 192 may randomly select one of the transmission sections whose bandwidth utilization rate is greater than a threshold. The QoS calculation unit 192 may select the transmission section using a different selection method for each iteration of the QoS parameter value calculation (in the example in Figure 20, for each iteration of the loop from step S203 to S213).

[0106] Next, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the communication capacity in each communication path through which the selected transmission section passes, such that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section becomes equal to the utilization upper threshold (step S212). Next, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in each communication section through which the communication path for which the communication capacity has been calculated passes (step S213). After step S211, the process returns to step S203.

[0107] On the other hand, if step S203 determines that there are no transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the upper limit threshold (step S203: NO), the QoS calculation unit 192 determines whether there are any communication paths where the bandwidth utilization rate is less than the upper limit threshold in all transmission sections through which the communication path passes (step S221).

[0108] If the QoS calculation unit 192 determines that there is a communication path in which the bandwidth utilization rate is lower than the upper limit threshold in all transmission sections through which the communication path passes (step S221: YES), the QoS calculation unit 192 selects one of the communication paths in which the bandwidth utilization rate is lower than the upper limit threshold in all transmission sections through which the communication path passes (step S231). The method by which the QoS calculation unit 192 selects a communication path is not limited to a specific method.

[0109] Next, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the communication capacity in at least one of the transmission sections through which the selected communication path passes, such that the bandwidth utilization rate in that section is equal to the utilization upper threshold (step S232). Next, the QoS calculation unit 192 calculates the bandwidth utilization rate in each transmission section through which the selected communication path passes (step S233). After step S233, the process returns to step S221.

[0110] On the other hand, if step S221 determines that there are no communication paths where the bandwidth utilization rate is less than the upper limit threshold in all transmission sections through which the communication path passes (step S221: NO), the QoS calculation unit 192 terminates the process shown in Figure 20.

[0111] As described above, if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the upper limit threshold, the QoS calculation unit 192 selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the upper limit threshold. The bandwidth utilization rate in a given transmission section is the ratio obtained by dividing the sum of the communication capacities set for all communication paths passing through that transmission section by the transmission capacity in that transmission section. The upper limit threshold is a threshold set for the bandwidth utilization rate.

[0112] The QoS calculation unit 192 then updates the communication capacity set for the communication path passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in that transmission section falls below the utilization upper threshold. The QoS calculation unit 192 repeats the selection of transmission sections and updating of communication capacity until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections falls below the upper limit threshold.

[0113] According to the management device 100, even when multiple communication paths pass through a single transmission section in the communication network 200, the communication settings can be dynamically updated to prevent congestion. In particular, according to the management device 100, the communication capacity of each communication path can be adjusted so that the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is below the upper limit threshold for utilization.

[0114] If QoS settings are configured during network design based on the assumption of maximum transmission capacity, congestion may occur when transmission capacity deteriorates. On the other hand, if QoS settings are configured based on the assumption of minimum transmission capacity, transmission capacity cannot be used efficiently under normal conditions, resulting in ineffective utilization of wireless communication resources.

[0115] Furthermore, if communication devices dynamically change their QoS settings, they may not know the QoS settings of other communication devices, potentially leading to congestion or inefficient use of transmission capacity. In response to this, the management device 100 can dynamically change the QoS settings of each communication device 300 to prevent congestion and efficiently utilize transmission capacity.

[0116] Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 updates the communication capacity set for the communication path passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section becomes equal to the threshold (utilization upper limit threshold) set for that transmission section (selected transmission section). According to the management device 100, the transmission capacity of the selected transmission section can be utilized up to the threshold limit, which allows for particularly efficient use of transmission capacity.

[0117] Furthermore, if there is a communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than the threshold, the QoS calculation unit 192 increases the communication capacity set for that communication path (a communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than the threshold) to the extent that the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections through which that communication path is less than or equal to the threshold. According to the management device 100, transmission capacity can be utilized more efficiently within the range where congestion does not occur.

[0118] Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 increases the communication capacity set for that communication path (a communication path in which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections traversed by that communication path is less than the threshold) so that the bandwidth utilization rate in at least one transmission section traversed by that communication path becomes equal to the threshold. According to the management device 100, the transmission capacity of at least one transmission section can be utilized to its maximum threshold, and in particular, the transmission capacity can be utilized efficiently.

[0119] Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 selects the transmission section with the smallest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. In this case, the QoS calculation unit 192 can be seen as selecting a transmission section that minimizes the amount of correction (subtraction) of the communication capacity and correcting the communication capacity. The management device 100 (specifically its QoS calculation unit 192) can be seen as gradually correcting the communication capacity, and in this respect, it is expected that the communication capacity can be corrected in a relatively similar manner. As mentioned above, modifying communication capacity in a relatively similar manner means that the difference in the modification rate (the ratio of the modified communication capacity to the original communication capacity) or the amount of modification across different communication paths is relatively small.

[0120] Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 selects the transmission section with the largest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. In this case, the QoS calculation unit 192 can be seen as allocating the amount of correction to the communication capacity to a relatively large number of communication paths. In this respect, it is expected that the management device 100 (specifically its QoS calculation unit 192) can correct the communication capacity in a relatively similar manner.

[0121] Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 selects the transmission section with the largest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. In this case, the QoS calculation unit 192 can be seen as selecting the transmission section that results in the largest amount of correction (subtraction) of the communication capacity and correcting the communication capacity. The QoS calculation unit 192 can be seen as correcting the communication capacity all at once, and in this respect, it is expected that the management device 100 (or its QoS calculation unit 192) will adjust the QoS parameter values ​​relatively infrequently.

[0122] Furthermore, the QoS calculation unit 192 selects the transmission section with the fewest number of communication paths (through which the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold) among the transmission sections. In this case, the QoS calculation unit 192 will allocate the amount of communication capacity correction to a relatively small number of communication paths, and the amount of communication capacity correction for a single communication path will be relatively large. In this respect, it is expected that the management device 100 (or its QoS calculation unit 192) will adjust the QoS parameter values ​​relatively infrequently.

[0123] <Second Embodiment> Figure 21 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a communication capacity adjustment device according to at least one embodiment. In the configuration shown in Figure 21, the communication capacity adjustment device 610 includes a communication capacity adjustment unit 611.

[0124] In this configuration, if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, the communication capacity adjustment unit 611 selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, and updates the communication capacity set for the communication path passing through that transmission section (the selected transmission section) so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section becomes less than or equal to the threshold, repeating this process until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections becomes less than or equal to the threshold.

[0125] Bandwidth utilization is the ratio obtained by dividing the sum of the communication capacities set for each communication path across a single transmission section in a communication network by the transmission capacity of each individual transmission section. Bandwidth utilization is calculated for each transmission section. The communication capacity adjustment unit 611 is an example of a communication capacity update means.

[0126] The communication capacity adjustment device 610 can dynamically update communication settings to prevent congestion even when multiple communication paths pass through a single transmission section in a communication network. In particular, the communication capacity adjustment device 610 can adjust the communication capacity of each communication path so that the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is below a threshold.

[0127] <Third Embodiment> Figure 22 shows an example of the configuration of a communication network system according to at least one embodiment. In the configuration shown in Figure 22, the communication network system 620 comprises a transmission device 621 and a communication capacity adjustment device 622. The communication capacity adjustment device 622 comprises a communication capacity adjustment unit 623.

[0128] In this configuration, if there is one or more transmission sections in the communication network provided by the transmission devices 621 where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than a threshold, the communication capacity adjustment device 622 selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than a threshold, and updates the communication capacity set for the communication path passing through that transmission section (the selected transmission section) so that the bandwidth utilization rate in that transmission section becomes less than or equal to the threshold, and repeats this process until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections becomes less than or equal to the threshold.

[0129] Bandwidth utilization is the ratio obtained by dividing the sum of the communication capacities set for each communication path across all communication paths passing through a single transmission section by the transmission capacity of each individual transmission section. The communication capacity adjustment device 622 is an example of a communication capacity update means.

[0130] According to the communication network system 620, even when multiple communication paths pass through a single transmission section in the communication network, the communication settings can be dynamically updated to prevent congestion. In particular, according to the communication network system 620, the communication capacity of each communication path can be adjusted so that the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is below a threshold.

[0131] <Fourth Embodiment> Figure 23 is a diagram showing an example of the processing procedure in a communication capacity adjustment method according to at least one embodiment. The communication capacity adjustment method shown in Figure 23 includes adjusting the communication capacity (step S611). Adjusting the communication capacity (step S611) includes the computer selecting one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization is greater than the threshold if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization is greater than the threshold, and updating the communication capacity set for the communication path passing through that transmission section (the selected transmission section) so that the bandwidth utilization in that transmission section becomes less than or equal to the threshold, and repeating this until the bandwidth utilization in any of the transmission sections becomes less than or equal to the threshold. Bandwidth utilization is the ratio obtained by dividing the sum of the communication capacities set for each communication path across a single transmission section in a communication network by the transmission capacity of each individual transmission section. Bandwidth utilization is calculated for each transmission section.

[0132] According to the communication capacity adjustment method shown in Figure 23, even when multiple communication paths pass through a single transmission section in a communication network, the communication settings can be dynamically updated to prevent congestion. In particular, according to the communication capacity adjustment method shown in Figure 23, the communication capacity of each communication path can be adjusted so that the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is below a threshold.

[0133] Figure 24 shows an example of a computer configuration according to at least one embodiment. As shown in Figure 24, the computer 700 comprises a CPU 710, a main memory 720, an auxiliary memory 730, an interface 740, and a non-volatile recording medium 750.

[0134] One or more of the above-mentioned management device 100, communication capacity adjustment device 610, and communication capacity adjustment device 622, or a part thereof, may be implemented in the computer 700. In that case, the operation of each of the above-mentioned processing units is stored in the auxiliary storage device 730 in the form of a program. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, expands it in the main memory 720, and executes the above-mentioned processing according to the program. The CPU 710 also reserves memory areas in the main memory 720 corresponding to each of the above-mentioned storage units according to the program. Communication between each device and other devices is performed by the interface 740 having a communication function and performing communication according to the control of the CPU 710. The interface 740 also has a port for the non-volatile recording medium 750 and reads information from the non-volatile recording medium 750 and writes information to the non-volatile recording medium 750.

[0135] When the management device 100 is implemented in the computer 700, the operation of the management-side processing unit 190 and each of its parts is stored in auxiliary storage device 730 in the form of a program. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main memory 720, and executes the above processing according to the program.

[0136] Furthermore, the CPU 710 reserves a memory area in the main memory 720 for the management-side memory unit 180 according to the program. Communication with other devices by the management-side communication unit 110 is performed by the interface 740 having a communication function and operating according to the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the management device 100 and the user is performed by the interface 740 having input and output devices, presenting information to the user via the output device and accepting user operations via the input device according to the control of the CPU 710.

[0137] When the communication capacity adjustment device 610 is implemented in the computer 700, the operation of the communication capacity adjustment unit 611 is stored in auxiliary storage device 730 in the form of a program. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main memory 720, and executes the above process according to the program.

[0138] Furthermore, the CPU 710 reserves memory in the main memory 720 for the communication capacity adjustment device 610 to process according to the program. Communication between the communication capacity adjustment device 610 and other devices is performed by the interface 740 having a communication function and operating under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the communication capacity adjustment device 610 and the user is performed by the interface 740 having input and output devices, presenting information to the user via the output device and accepting user operations via the input device under the control of the CPU 710.

[0139] When the communication capacity adjustment device 622 is implemented in the computer 700, the operation of the communication capacity adjustment unit 623 is stored in auxiliary storage device 730 in the form of a program. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main memory 720, and executes the above process according to the program.

[0140] Furthermore, the CPU 710 reserves memory in the main memory 720 for the communication capacity adjustment device 622 to process according to the program. Communication between the communication capacity adjustment device 622 and other devices is performed by the interface 740 having a communication function and operating under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the communication capacity adjustment device 622 and the user is performed by the interface 740 having input and output devices, presenting information to the user via the output device and accepting user operations via the input device under the control of the CPU 710.

[0141] One or more of the above-mentioned programs may be recorded on the non-volatile recording medium 750. In this case, the interface 740 may read the program from the non-volatile recording medium 750. The CPU 710 may then either directly execute the program read by the interface 740, or temporarily save it in the main memory 720 or auxiliary memory 730 before executing it.

[0142] Alternatively, a program for executing all or part of the processing performed by the management device 100, the communication capacity adjustment device 610, and the communication capacity adjustment device 622 may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the processing of each part may be performed by having the computer system read and execute the program recorded on this recording medium. The term "computer system" here includes hardware such as the OS (Operating System) and peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs (Read Only Memory), CD-ROMs (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), and storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. The above-mentioned program may be intended to implement only a part of the functions described above, and may also be able to implement the above-mentioned functions in combination with programs already recorded in the computer system.

[0143] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to these embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications to the structure and details of the present disclosure are possible, as can be understood by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the embodiments described above may be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0144] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to these.

[0145] (Note 1) A communication capacity updating means that, if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a threshold, selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, and updates the communication capacity set for the communication paths passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, repeating this process until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold. A communication capacity adjustment device equipped with the following features.

[0146] (Note 2) The communication capacity updating means updates the communication capacity set in the communication path passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section becomes equal to the threshold set in the selected transmission section. The communication capacity adjustment device described in Appendix 1.

[0147] (Note 3) The communication capacity update means, if there is a communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold, increases the communication capacity set for the communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold, within a range where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections through which the communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold is less than or equal to a threshold. A communication capacity adjustment device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2.

[0148] (Note 4) The communication capacity updating means further increases the communication capacity set for a communication path where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections through which the one communication path passes is less than a threshold, so that the bandwidth utilization rate in at least one transmission section through which the communication path passes is less than a threshold, becomes equal to the threshold. The communication capacity adjustment device described in Appendix 3.

[0149] (Note 5) The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section from among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, the section in which the difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate is smallest. A communication capacity adjustment device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 4.

[0150] (Note 6) The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section with the largest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. A communication capacity adjustment device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 5.

[0151] (Note 7) The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section with the largest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. A communication capacity adjustment device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 6.

[0152] (Note 8) The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section with the fewest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. A communication capacity adjustment device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 7.

[0153] (Note 9) It comprises a transmission device and a communication capacity adjustment device, The aforementioned communication capacity adjustment device is In the communication network provided by the aforementioned transmission device, if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a threshold, the communication capacity update means selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, and updates the communication capacity set for the communication paths passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section becomes less than or equal to the threshold, repeating this process until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections becomes less than or equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section. Equipped with, Communication network system.

[0154] (Note 10) The communication capacity updating means updates the communication capacity set in the communication path passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section becomes equal to the threshold set in the selected transmission section. The communication network system described in Appendix 9.

[0155] (Note 11) The communication capacity update means, if there is a communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold, increases the communication capacity set for the communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold, within a range where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections of the communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold is less than or equal to a threshold. The communication network system described in Appendix 9 or Appendix 10.

[0156] (Note 12) The communication capacity updating means further increases the communication capacity set for a communication path where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections through which the one communication path passes is less than a threshold, so that the bandwidth utilization rate in at least one transmission section through which the communication path passes is less than a threshold, becomes equal to the threshold. The communication network system described in Appendix 11.

[0157] (Note 13) The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section from among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, the section in which the difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate is smallest. A communication network system as described in any one of the appendices 9 to 12.

[0158] (Note 14) The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section with the largest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. A communication network system as described in any one of the appendices 9 through 14.

[0159] (Note 15) The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section with the largest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. A communication network system as described in any one of the appendices 9 through 14.

[0160] (Note 16) The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section with the fewest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. A communication network system as described in any one of the appendices 9 through 15.

[0161] (Note 17) Computers If there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a threshold, the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is selected, and the bandwidth utilization rate for the selected transmission section is updated so that the bandwidth utilization rate for that transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, and this process is repeated until the bandwidth utilization rate for all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section. A method for adjusting communication capacity, including the following.

[0162] (Note 18) Updating the communication capacity means that the computer updates the communication capacity set in the communication path passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section becomes equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section. The method for adjusting communication capacity as described in Appendix 17.

[0163] (Note 19) By updating the communication capacity, if there is a communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold, the computer increases the communication capacity set for the communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold, within a range where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections of the communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold remains below the threshold. The method for adjusting communication capacity as described in Appendix 17 or Appendix 18.

[0164] (Note 20) Updating the communication capacity means that the computer further increases the communication capacity set for a communication path where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections of the communication path is less than the threshold, such that the bandwidth utilization rate in at least one transmission section of the communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections of the communication path is less than the threshold becomes equal to the threshold. The method for adjusting communication capacity as described in Appendix 19.

[0165] (Note 21) By updating the communication capacity, the computer selects the transmission section in which the difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate is smallest among the transmission sections in which the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold rate. The method for adjusting communication capacity described in any one of the appendices 17 to 20.

[0166] (Note 22) By updating the aforementioned communication capacity, the computer selects the transmission section with the largest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. The method for adjusting communication capacity described in any one of the appendices 17 to 21.

[0167] (Note 23) By updating the communication capacity, the computer selects the transmission section with the largest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. A method for adjusting communication capacity as described in any one of the appendices 17 to 22.

[0168] (Note 24) By updating the communication capacity, the computer selects the transmission section with the fewest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. The method for adjusting communication capacity described in any one of the appendices 17 to 23.

[0169] (Note 25) On the computer, If there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a threshold, the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is selected, and the bandwidth utilization rate for the selected transmission section is updated so that the bandwidth utilization rate for the selected transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, and this process is repeated until the bandwidth utilization rate for all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section. A program that executes the command.

[0170] (Note 26) Updating the communication capacity causes the computer to update the communication capacity set for the communication path passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section becomes equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section. The program described in Appendix 25.

[0171] (Note 27) Updating the communication capacity means causing the computer to increase the communication capacity set for a communication path where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold, within a range where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections of that communication path remains below the threshold, provided that there is a communication path where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections of that communication path is less than a threshold. The program described in Appendix 25 or Appendix 26.

[0172] (Note 28) Updating the communication capacity further causes the computer to increase the communication capacity set for the communication path where the bandwidth utilization in all transmission sections of the communication path is less than the threshold, such that the bandwidth utilization in at least one transmission section of the communication path through which the bandwidth utilization in all transmission sections of the communication path is less than the threshold becomes equal to the threshold. The program described in Appendix 27.

[0173] (Note 29) Updating the communication capacity causes the computer to select the transmission section from among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, the section in which the difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate is smallest. The program described in any one of the appendices 25 to 28.

[0174] (Note 30) Updating the communication capacity causes the computer to select the transmission section with the largest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. The program described in any one of the appendices 25 to 29.

[0175] (Note 31) Updating the communication capacity causes the computer to select the transmission section with the largest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. The program described in any one of the appendices 25 to 30.

[0176] (Note 32) Updating the communication capacity causes the computer to select the transmission section with the fewest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. The program described in any one of the appendices 25 to 31. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0177] 1,620 Communication Network Systems 100 Management device 110 Management Communications Department 180 Management side storage unit 181 Path Information Storage Unit 182 Transmission capacity information storage unit 183 QoS information storage unit 190 Management Processing Unit 191 Transmission Capacity Information Update Unit 192 QoS calculation section 200 Communication Networks 210, 621 Transmission equipment 211 Transmission Capacity Measurement Unit 212 Network Communications Department 213 Terminal Communication Unit 300 Communication devices 301 QoS setting section 302 Terminal-side communication unit 610, 622 Communication capacity adjustment device 611, 623 Communication capacity adjustment section

Claims

1. A communication capacity updating means that, if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a threshold, selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, and updates the communication capacity set on the communication paths passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, repeating this process until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold. A communication capacity adjustment device equipped with the following features.

2. The communication capacity updating means updates the communication capacity set in the communication path passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section becomes equal to the threshold set in the selected transmission section. A communication capacity adjustment device according to claim 1.

3. The communication capacity updating means, if there is a communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold, increases the communication capacity set for the communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold, within a range where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections through which the communication path through which the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than a threshold is less than or equal to a threshold. A communication capacity adjustment device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The communication capacity updating means further increases the communication capacity set for a communication path where the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections through which the one communication path passes is less than a threshold, so that the bandwidth utilization rate in at least one transmission section through which the communication path passes is less than a threshold, becomes equal to the threshold. The communication capacity adjustment device according to claim 3.

5. The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section from among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, the section in which the difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate is smallest. A communication capacity adjustment device according to claim 1.

6. The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section with the largest number of communication paths among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. A communication capacity adjustment device according to claim 1.

7. The communication capacity update means selects the transmission section with the largest difference obtained by subtracting the threshold from the bandwidth utilization rate among the transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold. A communication capacity adjustment device according to claim 1.

8. It comprises a transmission device and a communication capacity adjustment device, The aforementioned communication capacity adjustment device is In a communication network provided by the aforementioned transmission device, if there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a set threshold, the communication capacity update means selects one transmission section where the bandwidth utilization rate is greater than the threshold, and updates the communication capacity set for the communication paths passing through the selected transmission section so that the bandwidth utilization rate in the selected transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, repeating this process until the bandwidth utilization rate in all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section. Equipped with, Communication network system.

9. Computers If there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a threshold, the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is selected, and the bandwidth utilization rate for the selected transmission section is updated so that the bandwidth utilization rate for that transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, and this process is repeated until the bandwidth utilization rate for all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section. A method for adjusting communication capacity, including the following.

10. On the computer, If there is one or more transmission sections where the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is greater than a threshold, the bandwidth utilization rate for each transmission section is selected, and the bandwidth utilization rate for the selected transmission section is updated so that the bandwidth utilization rate for that transmission section is less than or equal to the threshold, and this process is repeated until the bandwidth utilization rate for all transmission sections is less than or equal to the threshold set for the selected transmission section. A program that executes the command.

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