Graph Router Federation for Live IoT Query Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Challenges exist in improving the performance of communications between and among IoT-type devices and other electronic devices, particularly in processing queries generated at these devices, which can be complex due to the diverse and distributed nature of IoT systems.

Innovation Solution

A federated GraphQL approach is implemented, utilizing a graph router to manage and process queries across multiple subgraphs, allowing for a unified interface and efficient query distribution without requiring manual coding, and enabling separation of concerns among different teams managing subgraphs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a federated GraphQL approach is implemented with a graph router to manage queries across multiple subgraphs, then query processing efficiency and scalability are improved, but system complexity increases due to the need to coordinate multiple subgraphs and maintain a unified interface

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequery processing efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the GraphQL infrastructure into independent subgraphs, each managed by different teams and handling specific data domains. The graph router segments query routing responsibilities, allowing each subgraph to process queries autonomously while maintaining a unified federated interface. This segmentation improves query processing efficiency by enabling parallel execution across subgraphs while managing complexity through clear boundaries.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The graph router acts as an intermediary component that receives queries from clients, determines the appropriate subgraph(s) to route them to, and aggregates results. This mediator approach allows the system to maintain a unified GraphQL interface without requiring direct coordination between all subgraphs, thereby improving query processing while containing system complexity through a centralized routing layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual coding is required to manage query distribution across subgraphs, then flexibility in customizing query handling is improved, but development time and maintenance effort increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequery handling flexibilityVSAvoiddevelopment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The graph router implements automated query distribution logic that autonomously determines which subgraph(s) should handle specific queries based on predefined routing rules and schema information. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual coding of query distribution logic, allowing the system to maintain flexibility in handling diverse queries while significantly reducing development time and maintenance effort through automated routing decisions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If subgraphs are added or modified frequently to accommodate diverse IoT devices, then adaptability to new device types is improved, but system stability deteriorates due to potential disruptions in query processing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration of diverse IoT devicesVSAvoidsystem stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The federated GraphQL system employs dynamic subgraph registration and schema composition, allowing new subgraphs to be added or modified without requiring system-wide reconfiguration. The graph router dynamically updates its routing logic based on the current state of registered subgraphs, enabling frequent additions of new IoT device support while maintaining system stability through automated adaptation rather than rigid configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements schema validation and compatibility checking mechanisms that detect potential conflicts before they disrupt query processing. By validating subgraph schemas against the federated schema in advance and providing guided migration paths, the system cushions against stability disruptions when subgraphs are added or modified, allowing frequent updates to accommodate diverse IoT devices while maintaining operational stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20260003863A1Infrastructure for live queries
Publication Date: 2026.01.01 APOLLO GRAPH INC
  • US20260003863A1 patent drawing
  • US20260003863A1 patent drawing
  • US20260003863A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates generally to computing and/or communications infrastructure and, more particularly, infrastructure for live queries in graph routers.