Heterogeneous Network Switch System for Dynamic Energy Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data center networking backplanes are over-provisioned to handle peak traffic levels, leading to inefficient energy usage and unnecessary costs due to the constant high power consumption, even when traffic levels are lower.
Innovation Solution
A heterogeneous network switch system that employs a controller to selectively use network switches with varying power consumption levels based on current traffic demands, switching to more energy-efficient switches when traffic is below peak levels and activating redundant switches in case of failures to ensure uninterrupted service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If networking backplane is over-provisioned to support peak traffic levels, then network capacity and reliability are improved, but energy consumption increases unnecessarily during low traffic periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static, always-on networking backplane to a dynamic system that adjusts power states based on traffic conditions. The networking backplane dynamically transitions between active and low-power states, matching its operational capacity to actual traffic demands rather than maintaining constant peak capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power state parameter of the networking backplane based on traffic conditions. By monitoring traffic levels and adjusting the power state accordingly (full power during peak traffic, reduced power during low traffic), the system optimizes the balance between network capacity and energy consumption.
2Use of energy by moving object
If heterogeneous network switches with varying power consumption are deployed, then energy efficiency is improved during low traffic periods, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the networking backplane into multiple network switches with different power consumption characteristics. This segmentation allows the system to select appropriate switches based on traffic demands - using high-power switches during peak traffic and low-power switches during low traffic periods, thereby improving overall energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal networking backplane system that can perform the same network switching function using different types of switches. The system is designed to accommodate multiple switch types (high-power and low-power) that all fulfill the basic network switching requirement, allowing flexible selection based on conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A heterogeneous network switch system includes heterogeneous network switches having a first network switch having a first functionality and a second network switch having a second functionality, where the first functionality differs from the second functionality. In addition, the first network switch and the second network switch are configured to forward data to at least one common server. The system also includes a controller configured to receive data from at least one client and to select one of the first network switch and the second network switch to employ in forwarding the data from the at least one client to the at least one common network equipment.