Network Path Placement with Discrete Power Band Ratings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for modeling power usage of network devices are computationally intensive and infeasible due to non-linear power consumption patterns, making precise modeling difficult and resource-intensive, and frequent power measurements are beyond the control of routing protocols.
Innovation Solution
Categorize network devices into power usage ratings based on power bands defined by a uniform network-wide policy, using extended administrative groups (EAGs) to exchange power band levels, enabling path placement that optimizes power consumption by selecting paths with the lowest power cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If precise power usage modeling is performed using existing methods, then measurement precision is improved, but computational resources and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the continuous power usage parameter into discrete power bands (e.g., 0-100W, 100-200W, etc.), changing the parameter representation from precise continuous values to categorized discrete levels. This reduces computational complexity while maintaining sufficient accuracy for routing decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the power usage range into multiple power bands and categorizes network devices into different power groups based on their power consumption characteristics. This segmentation allows for simplified modeling and comparison of power usage across diverse network devices.
2Measurement precision
If frequent power measurements are performed to capture non-linear power consumption patterns, then measurement precision is improved, but measurement frequency and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary power measurements during device initialization or configuration phases to establish power band categories. These pre-determined power groups are then used for routing decisions without requiring frequent real-time measurements, reducing measurement overhead while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of continuously measuring actual power consumption, the patent uses pre-determined power band values as proxies or copies of the actual power usage characteristics. These copied power group indicators are sufficient for path placement decisions without requiring ongoing precise measurements.
3Loss of energy
If detailed power usage tracking is implemented, then power optimization is improved, but device complexity and implementation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the power usage parameter from detailed continuous measurements to discrete power band categories. This parameter transformation enables effective power optimization through path placement while avoiding the complexity of detailed power modeling and tracking systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
In some implementations, a network device may receive one or more indications of one or more power usage ratings associated with a plurality of network devices. The network device may perform path placement on one or more network devices of the plurality of network devices using the one or more power usage ratings.