Network Path Selection Power Consumption Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for reducing power consumption in networks focus on individual node optimization or optical bypasses, failing to consider network-wide power usage effectively, which limits overall energy efficiency and does not account for dynamic traffic conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method to determine power consumption for each interface along possible paths in a network, allowing for path selection based on aggregate cost, enabling the network to choose paths that minimize overall power consumption without requiring new equipment, by advertising node information and controlling power-down modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If path selection is based on traditional metrics only, then routing decisions are simple, but power consumption cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and advertising power consumption values for each interface before path selection occurs. Nodes perform power consumption assessments and propagate this information through the network beforehand, allowing path computation elements to make informed decisions without performing complex real-time power analysis, thus resolving the contradiction between energy optimization and decision complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism through path computation elements that aggregate power consumption information from multiple nodes and perform centralized path optimization. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of power-aware path selection, allowing individual nodes to maintain simple operations while achieving network-wide power optimization through coordinated decision-making.
2Use of energy by moving object
If optical bypass paths are provided around routers, then electrical processing is reduced, but capital expenditure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling dynamic path selection that adapts to current network conditions and power consumption patterns. Instead of static optical bypass infrastructure, the system dynamically routes traffic through electrical or optical paths based on real-time power consumption data, allowing operators to optimize energy usage with existing infrastructure rather than requiring additional capital investment in optical bypass equipment.
3Use of energy by moving object
If interfaces are switched off to save power, then power consumption decreases, but network availability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where nodes continuously monitor and advertise their interface power consumption states and availability. Path computation elements receive this feedback information and dynamically adjust path selections to avoid interfaces that are powered down or may be unavailable, thus maintaining network reliability while still achieving power savings through coordinated interface management.
Data Source
AI summary
Path computation involves determining (120, 930) an aggregate cost for a portion of the path, based at least on the power consumption attributable to use of interfaces along that portion, comparing (130, 930) the portion of the first possible path with a different portion corresponding to a different possible path for the traffic request, based at least on their respective aggregate costs, and selecting (140, 930) which portion to use for the traffic request based on the comparison. Having path selection influenced by the power consumption values, can lead to lower overall consumption in operation than relying only on optimizing nodes individually without regard to how the nodes are used. Path selection can take into account indications of which parts are in a power down mode, and can involve powering up such parts if needed.