Diameter Routing Agent Rule Engine Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Diameter Routing Agents (DRAs) provide only basic functionalities and lack the flexibility for users to easily define complex behaviors for processing Diameter messages, particularly in load balancing operations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that enables users to define and extend DRA message processing behavior by using a rule engine to evaluate rules, locate applicable load balancing pools, and modify destination addresses for Diameter messages, incorporating load balancing algorithms and pool host selection based on user-defined configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If basic DRA functionalities are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the DRA functionality by separating the rule evaluation logic from the basic routing functions. The rule engine is divided into distinct components that evaluate rules, locate load balancing pools, and select pool hosts independently, allowing users to define complex behaviors through modular rule sets without increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal rule engine that can handle multiple types of Diameter message processing operations including load balancing, routing, and other complex behaviors through a single configurable system. The rule engine evaluates rules and can locate applicable load balancing pools for different message types, providing multi-functionality without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function
2Productivity
If load balancing pools are implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rule engine as an intermediary component that mediates between incoming Diameter messages and the load balancing pools. The rule engine evaluates rules, determines applicable load balancing pools, and selects appropriate pool hosts, simplifying the overall architecture by centralizing the decision-making logic in a single intermediary component rather than distributing complexity throughout the system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring load balancing pools and their associated rules before runtime. The rule engine evaluates these pre-defined rules against incoming messages and selects from pre-established pools, eliminating the need for complex real-time decisions and reducing runtime processing complexity while maintaining high productivity
Data Source
AI summary
Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method and related network node including one or more of the following: receiving a Diameter message at the DRA from an origin device; encountering an instruction to perform load balancing; locating an applicable load balancing pool of a plurality of load balancing pools for the Diameter message; identifying a pool host from the applicable load balancing pool to receive the Diameter message; modifying a destination address of the Diameter message to include an address of the identified pool host; and transmitting the Diameter message based on the modified destination address.