Dynamic Transaction Timeout Control Based on Resource Utilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Transactional systems face inefficiencies due to the use of static timeouts, which cannot be dynamically adjusted during transactions, leading to suboptimal performance and potential failures.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for dynamically determining and adjusting transaction timeouts based on the properties of components and current resource utilization in a distributed computing system, allowing for real-time adjustments during transaction processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If static timeouts are used for transactions, then the system is simple to operate and implement, but the transaction efficiency and adaptability deteriorate because timeouts cannot be adjusted based on changing conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransaction efficiencyVSAvoidtimeout management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic timeout adjustment by continuously monitoring resource utilization metrics (CPU usage, memory availability, I/O operations) during transaction execution and adjusting the timeout value in real-time. The timeout manager dynamically recalculates expected completion time based on current system state, allowing the timeout to adapt to changing conditions rather than remaining static throughout the transaction lifecycle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback mechanisms by monitoring transaction progress and resource utilization, then using this information to adjust timeout values. The timeout manager receives feedback about actual transaction performance and system resource states, and uses this feedback to dynamically modify timeout periods, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes transaction handling based on real-time conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If static timeouts are used, then the system structure is simple, but the reliability deteriorates because timeouts cannot account for changing resource conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransaction reliabilityVSAvoidtimeout control structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by establishing baseline timeout values and resource monitoring mechanisms before transactions begin. The system pre-configures timeout management infrastructure, resource utilization thresholds, and adjustment algorithms in advance, so that when transactions execute, the dynamic adjustment mechanisms are already in place and can immediately respond to changing conditions without delay.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback mechanisms by monitoring transaction progress and resource utilization, then using this information to adjust timeout values. The timeout manager receives feedback about actual transaction performance and system resource states, and uses this feedback to dynamically modify timeout periods, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes transaction handling based on real-time conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If dynamic timeout adjustment is implemented, then transaction efficiency and reliability improve, but the system complexity increases due to continuous monitoring and adjustment mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetimeout adaptabilityVSAvoiddynamic control mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements parameter changes by dynamically modifying timeout values based on monitored system parameters such as CPU utilization, memory availability, and I/O operation status. The timeout manager continuously adjusts the timeout parameter in response to changes in system state, allowing the system to adapt to varying load conditions and resource availability without requiring structural changes to the core transaction processing architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8396961B2Dynamic control of transaction timeout periods
Publication Date: 2013.03.12 RED HAT INC
  • US8396961B2 patent drawing
  • US8396961B2 patent drawing
  • US8396961B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A processing device receives a request to initiate a new transaction. The processing device identifies one or more components of that will be used by the new transaction. The components may include hardware components and software components that operate on the hardware components. A timeout period is determined to apply to the new transaction based on properties of the one or more components and a current resource utilization of the one or more components. The new transaction is then initiated, wherein the determined timeout period is assigned to the new transaction.