Modular Schedulers for Non-Disruptive Network Protocol Upgrades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional communication networks supporting multiple data transmission protocols on a common medium have complex, non-scalable schedulers that are difficult to upgrade without disrupting operations.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of modular schedulers with multiple scheduler modules, a coordinator for resource allocation, and a multiplexer/demultiplexer for directing control messages, allowing for dynamic instantiation and termination of scheduler modules based on network requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional schedulers are used to support multiple data transmission protocols, then the scheduler can handle various protocols, but the device complexity increases and the scheduler becomes non-scalable and difficult to upgrade
Solution Approach 1:
The scheduler is divided into multiple independent scheduler modules, each responsible for a specific data transmission protocol. This segmentation allows each module to be developed, maintained, and upgraded independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining multi-protocol support capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The scheduler is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple protocol-specific modules through a common interface. This multi-functionality approach allows the same scheduler infrastructure to support various protocols without requiring separate dedicated schedulers for each protocol.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional schedulers are upgraded to support new protocols, then protocol support is improved, but service disruption occurs during the upgrade process
Solution Approach 1:
The scheduler modules are designed to be dynamically loadable and unloadable during runtime. New protocol modules can be instantiated and integrated without shutting down the scheduler service, allowing continuous operation and avoiding service disruption during protocol support enhancements.
Solution Approach 2:
New protocol modules can be prepared and validated in advance before being activated. This preliminary action allows the system to ensure compatibility and correctness before switching, maintaining service reliability during protocol support updates.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple scheduler modules are instantiated to support different protocols, then protocol versatility is improved, but computing resources and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of instantiating all possible protocol modules simultaneously, the scheduler dynamically loads only the modules needed for current traffic requirements. This partial action approach reduces computing resource consumption and energy usage while maintaining the capability to support multiple protocols when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The scheduler module instantiation is automated based on detected protocol requirements. The system self-adjusts by loading or unloading modules according to actual traffic patterns, eliminating the need for manual configuration and optimizing resource utilization automatically.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for scheduling data transmission in a communication network includes (1) using a first scheduler module, scheduling first data packets for transmission via a first communication medium, (2) using a second scheduler module, scheduling second data packets for transmission via the first communication medium, and (3) using a coordinator, allocating transmission resources of the first communication medium among at least the first and second scheduler modules.