Data Shifting Service for Cellular Network Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cellular networks are often oversized to handle peak demand, resulting in underutilization during off-peak times, leading to inefficient use of infrastructure and increased capital investment in network capacity.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows users to schedule and download data during times of low network utilization by utilizing a data shifting service (DSS) which monitors network usage and schedules downloads when utilization falls below a predetermined threshold, dividing files into smaller parts for efficient transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cellular networks are designed for maximum predicted traffic flow to prevent failures, then network reliability is improved, but network capacity is oversized and operates at less than full capacity much of the time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-downloading data during off-peak hours before the actual usage occurs. Users can schedule downloads to occur during low-utilization periods, and the system prepares data in advance so it's ready when needed, effectively shifting load from peak to off-peak times
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces dynamic scheduling capabilities that allow download timing to be adjusted based on network conditions. The network monitor dynamically identifies off-peak periods, and the scheduler adapts download timing accordingly, transforming the static network capacity problem into a dynamic resource allocation solution
2Reliability
If network capacity is increased to meet peak demand, then network reliability is improved, but capital investment in infrastructure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the temporal parameter of data transfer by shifting downloads from peak to off-peak hours. This parameter change allows the same physical infrastructure to handle the same total data volume without requiring additional capacity, thereby avoiding increased capital investment while maintaining reliability
3Ease of operation
If data is downloaded during peak usage times, then user convenience is improved, but network utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary downloads during off-peak hours, preparing data in advance before the user actually needs to access it. This eliminates the need for users to wait during peak times while still providing them with immediate access when they request the data
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary scheduling layer between the user's data request and the actual network download operation. The scheduler acts as a mediator that decouples user convenience from network load, allowing users to request data anytime while downloads occur optimally during off-peak periods
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing time-shifted data downloads over cellular networks are disclosed. The downloads can be selected using an application or other data consuming application with a “download later” feature, or similar. The application can register with a data shifting service (DSS) to receive a low-priority, or “0-rated,” download of the data. The DSS can place the application in queue waiting for predetermined network conditions (e.g., network utilization to fall below a predetermined level). Upon occurrence of the predetermined network conditions (e.g., network utilization falling below a predetermined rate), the DSS can inform the application that a low-priority download window is available. The application can then download the data from a content provider. The DSS can enable cellular networks to increase average network utilization, while reducing peak demand. The system may offer low-priority downloads at reduced cost, or free, to incentivize use of the DSS.