Adaptive Network Grid Reprogramming for Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
LTE network providers face inefficiencies due to fluctuating demand for different network elements, leading to underutilization of some elements while others are overutilized, resulting in suboptimal resource usage and unnecessary hardware installations.
Innovation Solution
A programmable adaptive network grid system where a network controller dynamically reprograms network elements to adjust their functions based on utilization thresholds, shifting processing loads between elements to optimize resource allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If network providers install extra network elements of particular types to accommodate maximum demand, then network capacity and reliability are improved, but hardware cost and resource waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling network elements to perform multiple different functions through dynamic reprogramming. Instead of having dedicated hardware for each network element type, a single network element can be reprogrammed to serve different roles (e.g., switching, routing, security) based on real-time network demands, thereby eliminating the need to install extra specialized hardware for peak demands of any single function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by allowing network elements to dynamically change their function and capacity allocation in real-time. The network controller continuously monitors utilization metrics and reprograms network elements on-the-fly to match current demand patterns, transforming the static hardware configuration into a dynamic, adaptable system that optimizes resource usage throughout the network lifecycle
2Device complexity
If network providers use static defined roles for network elements, then device complexity and configuration simplicity are improved, but adaptability and resource utilization efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static network element roles into dynamic, reconfigurable functions. Network elements can change their operational mode and assigned tasks based on real-time utilization metrics and network conditions, allowing the system to adapt to fluctuating demands without increasing configuration complexity for end users
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network controller continuously monitors utilization metrics of network elements and uses this information to make intelligent reprogramming decisions. The system receives feedback about current network conditions and adjusts network element assignments accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes resource allocation while maintaining operational simplicity
3Reliability
If network elements are allocated based on maximum peak demand, then network reliability is improved, but resource utilization efficiency and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic reallocation of network element functions based on real-time demand rather than static peak-demand provisioning. Network elements are continuously reassigned to match current utilization needs, ensuring network reliability is maintained while eliminating the chronic underutilization that occurs with peak-demand-based allocation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of network elements dynamically by reprogramming them to perform different functions. Instead of allocating hardware based on fixed peak parameters, the system adjusts functional parameters in real-time based on current utilization metrics, transforming the network from a static to a dynamically optimized state
Data Source
AI summary
A device receives a first message from a first network element of a network grid. The device determines, based on the first message, whether a threshold is reached for the first network element of the network grid. The device further reprograms, when the threshold is reached, a second network element of the network grid to function in same first role as the first network element. Prior to the reprogramming of the second network element, the second network element functions in a second role that is different from the first role. The device also shifts processing from the first network element to the second network element.