Load Distribution Function for IP Network Traffic Balancing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing load balancing methods in communication networks with IP packet-supporting capabilities often result in unbalanced traffic distribution due to unpredictable input traffic loads and inadequate use of shared resources, leading to inefficient path utilization and out-of-sequence events.

Innovation Solution

Implementing individual load distribution functions for each network input unit, using different alterations or hashing functions, and incorporating a two-stage mapping and coding process to ensure balanced traffic distribution across multiple paths and links, with optional programmable and cyclic redundancy check-based methods.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a single hashing function is used for load distribution across multiple paths, then packet classification is simplified, but traffic load becomes unbalanced across shared resources

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepacket classification simplicityVSAvoidtraffic load distribution balance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the load distribution function by assigning different hashing functions to different network input units. Each input unit has its own customized hashing function tailored to its specific traffic patterns and shared resources, allowing independent optimization of load distribution for each segment of the network infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by making each network input unit have a customized hashing function that is optimized for its local traffic characteristics and resource allocation needs. This allows each input unit to independently optimize its load distribution based on local conditions rather than using a uniform global approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Productivity

If load distribution functions are customized for each network input unit, then traffic distribution balance improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraffic distribution balanceVSAvoidsystem configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes parameters by allowing each network input unit to have different hashing function parameters (such as different polynomial coefficients, different reduction methods, or different seed values) while maintaining the same basic hashing function structure. This enables customization for optimal load distribution without requiring completely different algorithms for each input unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional hashing methods are used, then implementation is straightforward, but resource utilization becomes inefficient under unpredictable traffic loads

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplementation simplicityVSAvoidresource utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamics by making the hashing function parameters adaptable to changing traffic conditions. Each network input unit can adjust its hashing function parameters dynamically based on observed traffic patterns and resource utilization, allowing the system to respond to unpredictable traffic loads while maintaining efficient resource distribution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8675655B2Method for distributing load over multiple shared resources in a communication network and network applying such a method
Publication Date: 2014.03.18 WSOU INVESTMENTS LLC
  • US8675655B2 patent drawing
  • US8675655B2 patent drawing
  • US8675655B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a telecommunication network having IP packet-supporting capabilities, which includes a load distribution processing function, either centralized or distributed, by means of which a load distribution function may be applied to sets of paths between network nodes or sets of links of network trunks. The load distribution processing function handles different load distribution functions. Each of the different load distribution functions is associated to a different network input unit involved in the load distribution for a set of paths between network nodes or a set of trunk links. The invention also relates to a method of load distribution in a telecommunication network as summarized above.