Network Device Performance Optimization Circuitry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Network-connected devices face challenges in dynamically adjusting operation parameters to optimize performance measures such as bandwidth, latency, and packet drop rates, as these parameters often need to change with varying communication traffic patterns.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating performance optimization circuitry that uses genetic algorithms to iteratively modify configuration register values, selecting and modifying candidate vectors based on performance metrics, and refreshing parameters if degradation exceeds a threshold, thereby continuously tuning network device performance in real-time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed-parameter configurations are used in network devices, then device complexity is reduced and operation is simpler, but performance cannot be optimized for varying network conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance optimizationVSAvoidparameter adjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The network device automatically adjusts its own operation parameters through an optimization circuitry that monitors performance metrics and modifies configuration registers without external intervention. The system self-tunes parameters like packet buffer sizes, queue depths, and transmission rates based on real-time network conditions, eliminating the need for manual configuration while adapting to varying workloads.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic parameter changes by modifying configuration register values in real-time based on performance metrics. The optimization circuitry iteratively adjusts parameters such as receive queue depth, transmit buffer size, and packet coalescing thresholds to optimize performance for current network conditions, transforming static devices into dynamically adaptable systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If real-time parameter adjustment is implemented, then performance measure is improved, but device complexity increases due to iterative optimization processes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance measureVSAvoidoptimization circuitry
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where performance metrics (such as packet drop rates, bandwidth utilization, and latency) are continuously monitored and fed back to the optimization circuitry. This feedback loop enables the device to automatically adjust parameters based on actual performance, creating a closed-loop control system that continuously optimizes productivity without requiring complex external management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex manual tuning mechanisms with automated electronic optimization circuitry that uses algorithms to adjust parameters. Instead of requiring complex user interfaces or manual configuration processes, the system uses electronic feedback loops and iterative optimization to automatically manage performance, simplifying the overall system architecture despite the added functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If iterative optimization processes are used, then performance is continuously improved, but processing time and computational resources are consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance stabilityVSAvoidoptimization computation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The optimization process operates periodically rather than continuously, adjusting parameters at scheduled intervals or when specific triggers occur (such as changes in network conditions or performance metric thresholds). This periodic approach allows the system to maintain performance stability while reducing computational overhead by performing optimization only when necessary rather than continuously monitoring and adjusting all parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the frequency and intensity of optimization based on current conditions. When network conditions are stable, the optimization process runs less frequently to minimize computational resources. When changes are detected (such as traffic pattern shifts or performance degradation), the system increases optimization frequency to adapt quickly. This dynamic approach balances reliability with computational efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11968089B2Real time performance tuning of network devices
Publication Date: 2024.04.23 MELLANOX TECHNOLOGIES LTD(IL)
  • US11968089B2 patent drawing
  • US11968089B2 patent drawing
  • US11968089B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A network device (ND) includes packet processing circuitry and performance optimization circuitry. The packet processing circuitry is connected to a network and is configured to process communication packets for communicating over the network. The packet processing circuitry includes a plurality of configuration registers for setting one or more operation parameters of the ND. The performance optimization circuitry is configured to improve a performance measure of the ND by iteratively calculating the performance measure and adjusting values of one or more of the configuration registers based on the performance measure.