Deterministic Network Packet Handling via Asynchronous Action Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional deterministic networking techniques are incompatible with asynchronous packet operations due to their requirement for fixed latency and zero jitter, making it difficult to perform actions like packet processing or header modifications within the deterministic schedule.
Innovation Solution
A method where a device in a deterministic network sends a first packet according to a deterministic schedule and then sends a second packet with the action to be performed on the first packet, allowing asynchronous operations to be completed before the packet reaches its destination, while ensuring the packet is delivered within its scheduled timeframe.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional deterministic networking techniques are used to ensure fixed latency and zero jitter, then packet delivery reliability is improved, but the ability to perform asynchronous packet operations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the packet handling process into two independent parts: (1) deterministic packet forwarding along the scheduled path, and (2) asynchronous packet operations performed by network elements. This segmentation allows the forwarding function to maintain fixed latency guarantees while the operation function can perform variable-time processing independently, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where a first packet carries scheduling information and a second packet carries operation information. These packets act as intermediaries that coordinate between the deterministic forwarding schedule and the asynchronous operations, enabling both functions to coexist without conflict.
2Loss of time
If packet operations are performed synchronously within the deterministic schedule, then latency control is improved, but the complexity of coordinating operations with the schedule worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding the operation schedule information within the data packets themselves before transmission. Network elements retrieve this embedded scheduling information and perform operations accordingly, eliminating the need for separate complex coordination mechanisms and reducing device complexity while maintaining latency control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If asynchronous operations are allowed to variable time, then operational flexibility is improved, but deterministic packet delivery guarantees deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network function into deterministic packet forwarding (which maintains precision guarantees) and asynchronous packet operations (which provide flexibility). By separating these functions and allowing them to operate independently, the system achieves both operational flexibility and packet delivery precision without one compromising the other.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a particular device along a path in a deterministic network receives a first packet sent from a source towards a destination via the path. The particular device sends the first packet to a next hop device along the path, according to a deterministic schedule associated with the first packet. The particular device determines, after sending the first packet, an action to be performed on the first packet. The particular device then sends a second packet to the next hop device indicative of the determined action. The second packet causes another device along the path to perform the action on the first packet.