Packet Processing Device Power Management via Dynamic Capacity Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Packet processing devices, such as routers and switches, face increased power consumption as link bandwidths grow, with existing techniques like IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet only providing limited power savings, necessitating a method to reduce power consumption beyond port-based savings.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves dynamically adjusting the processing capacity of packet processing devices by determining power-save link utilization and aggregate minimum processing bandwidth, allowing for the reduction of processing capacity during low traffic periods, thereby reducing power consumption without affecting latency-sensitive traffic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If link bandwidths are increased to support higher throughput, then packet processing capacity is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the processing capacity of the packet processing device adjustable rather than fixed. The device dynamically transitions between different processing capacity states (first processing capacity when traffic exceeds threshold, second reduced processing capacity when traffic is below threshold) based on real-time traffic conditions, thereby reducing power consumption during low-traffic periods while maintaining high capacity when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the processing capacity parameter of the packet processing device based on traffic conditions. By monitoring traffic volume and comparing it to a threshold, the system adjusts the processing capacity parameter between two states, which directly affects power consumption. This parameter change approach allows the device to operate efficiently at different load levels
2Use of energy by moving object
If processing capacity is reduced to save power, then power consumption decreases, but packet processing performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring traffic volume and using this information to adjust processing capacity. The traffic volume is measured, compared against a threshold, and this feedback determines whether to maintain high processing capacity or reduce it to save power. This closed-loop control ensures performance is maintained when needed while enabling power savings when traffic is low
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action by alternating between high and low processing capacity states based on periodic traffic pattern analysis. The system periodically evaluates traffic conditions and switches processing capacity accordingly, creating a rhythm of high-performance modes and power-saving modes that adapts to the periodic nature of network traffic
3Use of energy by moving object
If EEE LPI mode is activated on individual ports, then port-level power savings are achieved, but aggregate device power consumption remains high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power management approach from individual port level to aggregate device level. Instead of only controlling power at each port independently, the system combines traffic information from multiple ports to make a collective decision about the overall processing capacity of the device. This aggregation enables broader power savings by coordinating the activity of the entire device rather than just individual components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the power-saving mechanism to serve multiple functions: it maintains packet processing capability when needed, reduces aggregate power consumption during low-traffic periods, and provides a unified power management approach that works across all ports simultaneously. The single processing capacity adjustment mechanism serves both individual port requirements and overall device efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed to saving power consumption in packet processing devices. A method for controlling power consumption of a packet processing device includes determining a power-save link utilization based upon one or more power-save enabled links of the packet processing device, determining an aggregate minimum processing bandwidth for the packet processing device based at least upon the determined power-save link utilization, and adjusting a processing capacity of the packet processing device based upon the determined aggregate minimum processing bandwidth, wherein the power consumption is changed by the adjusting. System and computer program product embodiments are also disclosed.