Epoch-Based Multicast Load Balancing for Bandwidth Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bandwidth management solutions in communication networks do not adequately address changes in relative bandwidth loading among channels, leading to inefficient traffic distribution and potential loss of multicast traffic due to dynamic nature of Internet traffic types and varying service rates.
Innovation Solution
Implementing epoch-based load balancing functions in routers to asynchronously rebalance traffic allocations among channels, using a processor to redistribute traffic based on criteria such as traffic spikes, priority levels, and subscriber/provider policies, ensuring uniform bandwidth distribution across channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traffic is shaped by policer functions to enforce PIR/CIR service levels on individual channels, then service level requirements are met, but bandwidth utilization efficiency deteriorates due to lack of coherent management across multiple channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines individual channel policer functions with a centralized bandwidth management system that monitors and adjusts traffic allocations across all channels. The load balancer integrates multiple channel management functions into a unified system that enforces service levels while optimizing overall bandwidth utilization through coordinated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the bandwidth management system continuously monitors bandwidth loading on each channel and adjusts traffic allocations dynamically. The load balancer receives feedback about channel utilization and service level compliance, then modifies routing decisions to maintain both reliability and efficiency.
2Device complexity
If traffic allocations remain static across channels, then device complexity is reduced, but bandwidth utilization efficiency deteriorates due to inability to address dynamic changes in relative bandwidth loading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic traffic allocation where the load balancer continuously adjusts routing decisions based on real-time bandwidth loading conditions. Traffic allocations are not fixed but adapt automatically to changing network conditions, allowing the system to maintain efficiency without requiring complex manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The bandwidth management system performs self-adjustment through automated load balancing algorithms that monitor channel utilization and redistribute traffic autonomously. The system serves itself by detecting imbalances and correcting them without external intervention, maintaining efficiency while keeping operational complexity manageable.
3Productivity
If traffic is distributed uniformly across channels, then bandwidth utilization is optimized, but multicast traffic may be lost due to inability to handle traffic spikes and varying service rates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes traffic distribution parameters based on channel conditions and traffic characteristics. Rather than applying a fixed uniform distribution, the load balancer adjusts routing parameters in response to bandwidth loading, traffic spikes, and service rate variations, maintaining both efficiency and reliability through adaptive parameter modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different traffic distribution strategies to different channels based on their specific conditions. Instead of treating all channels uniformly, the system tailors routing decisions to local channel characteristics, bandwidth availability, and traffic requirements, ensuring optimal performance and reliability for each channel while maintaining overall efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method and apparatus for efficient bandwidth management of traffic across a plurality of channels using one or more epoch-based load balancing functions to asynchronously rebalance traffic allocations among the channels.