Normalized Cloud Resource Metering for Usage-Based Billing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cloud computing users often rent maximum resources based on theoretical workloads, leading to inefficiencies and waste due to infrequent surges in usage, with providers charging based on rented rather than consumed resources.
Innovation Solution
A system and method to measure and normalize physical computing resources into a single unit of measure, optimizing resource usage and reducing waste by accurately quantifying actual consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users rent maximum computing resources based on theoretical workloads, then system performance reliability is improved, but resource waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resource allocation that adjusts computing resources based on actual workload demands rather than static maximum allocations. The system continuously monitors resource usage and dynamically scales resources up or down to match actual needs, resolving the contradiction between maintaining reliability during surges and avoiding waste during low-utilization periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of resource allocation from fixed maximum capacity to variable capacity based on actual usage patterns. By implementing usage-based billing and dynamic provisioning, the system allows resource parameters to fluctuate according to real demand, eliminating the need to over-provision for theoretical maximums while ensuring adequate capacity during actual surges.
2Ease of operation
If cloud providers charge based on rented resources, then billing simplicity is improved, but billing accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service metering and monitoring systems that automatically track actual resource consumption. Users can view their own usage data through portals and APIs, eliminating the need for complex manual billing calculations while ensuring accurate measurement of actual resources consumed. The system automatically generates usage reports and billing statements based on measured consumption rather than theoretical allocations.
3Speed
If users rent instances with preconfigured resources, then deployment speed is improved, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments computing resources into modular units that can be independently allocated and configured. Instead of requiring users to rent entire preconfigured instances with fixed resource bundles, the system allows segmentation of CPU, memory, storage, and networking resources that can be dynamically assembled and adjusted based on actual workload requirements, maintaining fast deployment while improving utilization efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for quantifying resource usage may include measuring a quantity of a plurality of physical computing resources being used over a period of time. The method may also include normalizing each measured quantity of each physical computing resource being used. The method may also include summing the normalized measured quantities of the physical computing resources being used to generate a single usage value representative of the physical computing resources being used over the period of time.