PIM Multicast QoS Support via Join Message Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Protocol Independent Multicast (PIM) networks lack quality of service (QoS) support, which is essential for ensuring reliable and efficient data transmission across IP networks, particularly in scenarios where multiple clients with varying QoS requirements are involved.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method where network nodes within a PIM network transmit PIM join messages containing QoS data, with each node selecting the largest QoS value from downstream nodes to ensure sufficient QoS provisioning along the path from the source to the client, and handling cases where QoS reservations fail due to resource limitations or non-QoS capable upstream nodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If PIM protocol is used for multicast distribution, then protocol independence and routing flexibility are improved, but quality of service support deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces QoS parameters as an intermediary element that mediates between the protocol-independent PIM routing mechanism and the QoS requirements. By embedding QoS parameters in PIM join messages and using them as selection criteria, the system enables QoS support without modifying the core PIM protocol architecture, thus maintaining protocol independence while achieving QoS capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the selection parameters for multicast tree construction from purely topology-based (traditional PIM) to parameter-based by incorporating QoS metrics. Network nodes evaluate multiple QoS parameters (bandwidth, delay, jitter, etc.) and select paths that optimize these parameters, transforming the routing decision process while keeping PIM as the underlying protocol framework.
2Reliability
If QoS parameters are embedded in PIM join messages for all downstream nodes, then quality of service provisioning is improved, but message complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by embedding QoS parameters selectively rather than universally. QoS parameters are included in PIM join messages only when downstream nodes have specific QoS requirements, while nodes without QoS needs use standard PIM messages. This partial application reduces overall message complexity while still providing QoS provisioning where needed.
3Reliability
If the largest QoS value is selected from downstream nodes, then satisfaction of the most stringent QoS demands is improved, but resource allocation efficiency may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by selecting the largest QoS value (most stringent requirements) from all downstream nodes and using it as the basis for resource reservation. This ensures that the network path is provisioned with sufficient resources to meet the highest demand, providing a cushion that guarantees QoS satisfaction for all nodes with lower requirements along the same path.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus comprising a network node configured to communicate with a plurality of other network nodes via one or more logic links using protocol independent multicast (PIM), wherein the network node is further configured to transmit a PIM message comprising quality of service (QoS) data to at least one of the other network nodes. Also disclosed is a method comprising receiving, by a first network node, a first PIM join message comprising QoS data from a second network node, wherein the second network node is downstream from the first network node. Also disclosed is a method comprising: sending, by a first network node, a first PIM message comprising QoS data to a second network node, wherein the second network node is upstream from the first network node.