Network Element Data Lane Allocation for Asymmetrical Traffic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network device connections often result in inefficiencies due to asymmetrical data transfer, where output traffic exceeds input traffic, leading to wasted throughput, particularly when all input data lanes are connected to one external port and all output data lanes to another, resulting in suboptimal utilization of network element capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The network element includes multiple input-output ports with varying numbers of input and output data lanes, allowing for flexible wired connections using cables, circuit boards, or patch panels, enabling some input data lanes to connect with output data lanes from different external ports, optimizing data transfer by matching lane usage with network requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If all input data lanes are connected to one external port and all output data lanes to another external port, then the connection structure is simple, but the throughput is suboptimal due to asymmetrical data transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The network element divides data lanes into separate input data lanes and output data lanes that can be independently connected to different external ports. This segmentation allows input traffic and output traffic to be routed through different physical paths, enabling full utilization of available bandwidth even when asymmetrical data transfer patterns occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimension connection model (all inputs to one port, all outputs to another port) to a multi-dimensional connection model where input data lanes and output data lanes can be independently assigned to different external ports. This dimensional expansion in the connection topology enables more flexible traffic routing and maximizes throughput utilization.
2Productivity
If output data lanes are connected to a different external port than input data lanes, then throughput utilization improves in asymmetrical scenarios, but the wiring and connection management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The network element provides universal connectivity by allowing any input data lane to be connected to any external input port and any output data lane to be connected to any external output port. This multi-functional connection capability enables the system to adapt to various traffic patterns and port configurations, maximizing throughput utilization while providing flexible connection management options.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple input-output ports with varying numbers of data lanes are provided, then flexibility in matching lane usage with network requirements improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network element implements local quality by providing different numbers of input data lanes and output data lanes at different input-output ports, tailored to the specific traffic requirements of each port. This allows high-traffic ports to have more data lanes while low-traffic ports have fewer lanes, optimizing the overall system adaptability to match varying network requirements across different ports.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus including a network element including an input-output port, the input-output port including an input data lane and an output data lane, wherein the input data lane is in wired connection with a network data source external to the network element, the output data lane is in wired connection with a network data destination external to the network element, and the network data source is distinct from the network data destination. Related apparatus and methods are also described.