Dynamic Operation Chains for Heterogeneous Edge-Cloud Compute Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distributed computer systems, such as CDNs and cloud computing infrastructures, lack the ability to efficiently manage and direct custom compute and caching operations across a heterogeneous network with varying resource availability and conditions, leading to suboptimal performance and operational inflexibility.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a control mechanism for automatically directing custom compute and caching operations using configurable 'operation chains' defined by programming languages or schemas, which leverage an understanding of POP capabilities and resource availability to optimize traffic flow through a heterogeneous network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If traditional cloud computing POPs with centralized computing infrastructure are used, then high computing power is available for complex operations, but network latency and complexity increase for distributed operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monolithic cloud computing POP into a hierarchical structure with multiple tiers (edge POPs, regional POPs, and centralized POPs). Each tier handles specific types of operations based on complexity requirements, allowing simple operations to be processed at the edge with low latency while complex operations are routed to higher tiers with greater computing power.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the network architecture by creating multiple hierarchical levels of POPs. This dimensional transformation allows the system to simultaneously provide low-latency access for simple operations at the edge level and high-power computing for complex operations at the centralized level, resolving the trade-off between latency and computing power.
2Adaptability or versatility
If heterogeneous POPs with varying compute capabilities are deployed, then operational flexibility and resource optimization improve, but traffic flow management and orchestration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic orchestration where the system automatically adapts traffic flow based on real-time conditions. The orchestration mechanism dynamically selects which POPs to route traffic to based on current resource availability, operational requirements, and POP capabilities, allowing the heterogeneous network to flexibly respond to changing conditions without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service orchestration through automated decision-making algorithms that allow the network to manage its own traffic flow. The system autonomously determines optimal routing paths, load balances across heterogeneous POPs, and adjusts resource allocation based on monitored performance metrics, eliminating the need for complex external orchestration management.
3Measurement precision
If manual configuration and programming of compute operations are required, then precise control over traffic flow is achieved, but operational efficiency and adaptability to changing conditions decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor network conditions, POP resource availability, and operation performance. This feedback information is used to automatically adjust traffic flow routing and resource allocation in real-time, maintaining precise control over operations while adapting dynamically to changing conditions without requiring manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration processes with automated software-based orchestration systems. The automated system uses algorithms and control mechanisms to precisely manage traffic flow and resource allocation, substituting human-operated mechanical configuration with intelligent automated control that achieves both precision and operational efficiency.
4Loss of energy
If centralized cloud computing resources are used, then resource consolidation and cost efficiency improve, but network latency and access complexity for distributed operations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by equipping edge POPs with localized computing resources capable of handling simple operations locally. This allows frequently accessed simple operations to be executed at the edge with minimal network latency, while still maintaining access to centralized resources for complex operations, thus achieving both fast local access and cost-efficient resource consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces regional POPs as intermediary layers between edge POPs and centralized cloud resources. These intermediaries cache frequently accessed data and handle intermediate processing, reducing the need for direct communication between edge devices and centralized resources, thereby decreasing network latency while maintaining resource consolidation benefits.
Data Source
AI summary
A heterogeneous overlay network and cloud compute infrastructure comprises different tiers of PoPs that are configurable to provide different amounts of cloud computing. To facilitate the programming (configuration) of compute and caching operations throughout the heterogeneous network, a control mechanism and methodology are provided for automatically directing the flow of custom compute and caching operations using configurable “operations chains.” A representative operation chain comprises a configuration file that specifies a traffic flow, and a set of operations and their relative ordering. A particular operation chain defines an initial operation that typically starts at a given edge machine in the heterogeneous network and then, as needed, one or more additional locations and their associated machines may then be used to facilitate processing of the operation chain.