Parallel Data Path Characterization and Adaptive Scheduling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing parallel data communication systems face inefficiencies due to their reliance on homogeneous network resources and inability to adapt to changing conditions, leading to suboptimal performance and incompatibility with heterogeneous networks, which limits their ability to improve overall network performance and flexibility.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that dynamically characterizes each parallel data path to establish a virtual connection, allowing for adaptive scheduling of data transmission based on path properties, enabling effective aggregation and utilization of both homogeneous and heterogeneous network elements without requiring changes to existing infrastructure or applications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If simple aggregation techniques are used to combine parallel communication channels, then the system can leverage multiple paths for data transmission, but the performance becomes dependent on the path with the lowest performance when paths have heterogeneous characteristics

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission throughputVSAvoidperformance consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments data packets into different groups based on their characteristics and assigns them to different communication paths. By dividing the data stream into distinct packet groups and routing them through separate paths, the system avoids the bottleneck effect where the slowest path limits overall performance. This segmentation allows each path to contribute its full capability without being constrained by the weakest link.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different transmission strategies to different paths based on their individual characteristics. Each path is evaluated for properties such as bandwidth, delay, and reliability, and packets are selectively assigned to paths that match their specific quality attributes. This local optimization ensures that each path operates at its optimal performance level rather than being uniformly limited by the worst path.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If packets are reassembled at the receiver end in simple aggregation systems, then data can be transmitted over multiple paths, but the overall communication time is extended due to buffering requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepath utilization flexibilityVSAvoidcommunication delay
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary actions by classifying and grouping packets before transmission, assigning them to specific paths in advance. By preparing packet groupings and path assignments beforehand, the system eliminates the need for extensive buffering and reassembly operations at the receiver, thereby reducing overall communication delay while maintaining path utilization flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If homogeneous network resources are assumed for aggregation to work effectively, then the system can provide consistent performance, but it fails to adapt to dynamic network environments with heterogeneous resources

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance consistencyVSAvoidnetwork environment adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic path selection and packet assignment based on real-time network conditions. The system continuously monitors path properties such as bandwidth, delay, and loss rates, and adjusts packet routing decisions accordingly. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain optimal performance consistency while operating in heterogeneous and changing network environments, rather than relying on static homogeneous assumptions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the receiver provides information about path performance to the sender. This feedback loop enables the system to learn about actual path conditions and adjust future packet assignments to optimize overall performance. The feedback-driven adaptation allows the system to handle heterogeneous resources effectively while maintaining consistent service quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Ease of manufacture

If simple aggregation systems are deployed, then existing networks can be leveraged without major changes, but they cannot adequately handle changing network conditions or install seamlessly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeployment simplicityVSAvoidnetwork condition responsiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a universal protocol that can operate over existing network infrastructure while adding sophisticated path management capabilities. The system is compatible with standard networking protocols and can be deployed without requiring major infrastructure changes, yet it provides advanced adaptability to handle changing network conditions through intelligent packet routing and path selection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9621384B2Systems and methods for communicating data over parallel data paths
Publication Date: 2017.04.11 GEORGIA TECH RES CORP
  • US9621384B2 patent drawing
  • US9621384B2 patent drawing
  • US9621384B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for the communication of data over a plurality of parallel communication paths are provided. Embodiments of the parallel communications systems and methods may discover, characterize, and leverage multiplicity of resources in various network elements to provide network applications with a desired communication objective and level of performance. The systems and methods may dynamically adapt to changes in the network resources to continuously provide the desired communication performance.