Network Routing Topology Selection via Distributed Voting
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Solution Overview
Problem
In distributed networks like peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, existing methods for optimizing network traffic routing become sub-optimal as the network grows, potentially leading to inefficiencies and fragmentation, as each node optimizes its connectivity based on local topology without considering global network changes.
Innovation Solution
A method where nodes propose and vote on candidate network routing topologies, with the winning topology being recorded and deployed in the blockchain, allowing for global optimization and efficient routing by leveraging a blockchain system for decentralized decision-making.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If each node optimizes its own connectivity based on local topology, then each node can independently improve its routing efficiency, but the network may become fragmented and routing efficiency deteriorates globally as the network grows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges local topology optimization with global network awareness by having nodes share their local topology information through transactions on a distributed ledger. This allows each node to make routing decisions that are optimized both locally and globally, preventing network fragmentation while maintaining independent node operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where nodes continuously monitor network topology changes and update their routing decisions based on feedback from the distributed ledger. This feedback loop ensures that local optimizations do not lead to global fragmentation, as nodes can adjust their connectivity based on network-wide information.
2Productivity
If a centralized coordinator node is selected to manage network topology, then global routing optimization can be achieved, but the system complexity and single point of failure risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables nodes to self-organize into an optimal topology through autonomous decision-making based on shared information from the distributed ledger. Each node independently evaluates candidate topologies and votes for the best option, eliminating the need for a centralized coordinator while achieving global optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The distributed ledger serves multiple functions simultaneously: it stores network topology information, facilitates voting on candidate topologies, records routing decisions, and provides a consensus mechanism. This multi-functional approach achieves centralized coordination benefits without the complexity and vulnerability of a single coordinator node.
3Productivity
If frequent network topology changes are implemented to adapt to network growth, then routing efficiency can be maintained, but network stability and consensus agreement become difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic topology evaluation and updating cycles, where nodes collectively assess whether topology changes are warranted based on current network conditions. This periodic action allows the network to adapt to growth while maintaining stability during intervals between updates, preventing excessive churn that would undermine consensus.
Solution Approach 2:
Before implementing topology changes, the system performs preliminary evaluation and voting on candidate topologies through the distributed ledger. This preliminary action ensures that proposed changes are consensus-driven and carefully evaluated, preventing premature or destabilizing topology modifications while still allowing timely adaptation when changes are justified.
Data Source
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AI summary
Selection of a network routing topology in a distributed network comprising multiple nodes is described. At respective ones of the multiple nodes, candidate transactions are received representing a set of candidate network routing topologies, a database is supplemented with the candidate transaction data, and respective voting transactions are received from each of the other nodes, each representing an indication of a preferred candidate network routing topology and a network routing topology is selected from the set of candidate network routing topologies on the basis of the voting transactions.