Network Relay Apparatus Multicast Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing load of multicast packets in IP multicast networks, particularly with the rise of IPTVs, leads to processing overload on designated routers, which existing techniques attempt to alleviate by distributing join requests among multiple network relay apparatuses, but this requires additional costly distribution devices.
Innovation Solution
A network relay apparatus that selects a designated router based on received join requests, using information about multicast groups and sources to distribute the processing load among multiple apparatuses, adjusting for additions or removals of apparatuses and handling failures, thereby optimizing route settings and reducing selection load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple network relay apparatuses relay multicast packets individually, then the multicast packet delivery is ensured, but multiple deliveries of the same multicast packet occur on the identical segment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the relay function by dividing multiple network relay apparatuses into roles: one designated router (DR) handles multicast packet relay while others handle only join request processing. This segmentation prevents multiple deliveries of the same multicast packet while ensuring reliable delivery through the designated apparatus.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If one network relay apparatus is selected as DR among multiple apparatuses, then multiple deliveries are prevented, but the processing load concentrates on the DR apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the processing load by assigning different functions to different apparatuses: the DR apparatus relays multicast packets while other apparatuses process join requests. This functional segmentation distributes the processing load across multiple apparatuses, preventing concentration on a single DR while maintaining prevention of multiple deliveries.
3Productivity
If a distribution device is added to divide join requests, then the processing load is distributed, but the device cost and operational cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling network relay apparatuses to autonomously determine their roles based on pre-stored identification information. Each apparatus automatically decides whether to relay multicast packets or process join requests without requiring an external distribution device, thereby distributing processing load while avoiding additional device costs and complexity.
4Productivity
If multiple network relay apparatuses are used, then the processing capacity increases, but the selection of designated router becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing identification information for each network relay apparatus before runtime. This pre-configured information enables automatic and straightforward selection of the designated router based on simple comparison of identification values, avoiding complex selection algorithms while maintaining increased processing capacity through multiple apparatuses.
Data Source
AI summary
Network relay apparatus includes: relay apparatus selector configured to, in response to reception of a join request for a preset multicast group from an external device connecting with the network, refer to information for identifying respective network relay apparatuses on a segment which the own network relay apparatus belongs to, and, at least one of information for identifying the preset multicast group and information for identifying a source, wherein the information for identifying the preset multicast group and the information for identifying a source are included in the received join request, and unequivocally select one network relay apparatus among at least part of the network relay apparatuses on the segment as a designated network relay apparatus according to a predetermined rule, wherein the designated network relay apparatus is assigned to relay a multicast packet to the external device; and a multicast route setter.