State Object Versioning in Virtual Processing Pipelines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for propagating state data in a network of pipeline stages are inefficient, either introducing delays through pipeline draining or causing redundant data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves receiving a version of a state object at a processing pipeline stage, associating it with a reference count object, incrementing and decrementing the counter, and executing an operation when the counter reaches zero, allowing for efficient propagation and management of state data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If state changes are propagated by draining pipeline stages, then pipeline stages can be reconfigured with new state data, but considerable delays are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring state objects with version identifiers and reference counts before they enter the pipeline. This allows pipeline stages to process work items with associated state data without requiring pipeline draining, as the state information is already prepared and attached to the work flow in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (state objects with reference counting) that mediates between state data sources and pipeline stages. This intermediary allows state data to be propagated efficiently through the pipeline without direct intervention or draining of pipeline stages, resolving the contradiction between reliable state propagation and time loss.
2Productivity
If work input is accompanied by state data, then pipeline draining is not required, but state data is unnecessarily and redundantly transmitted throughout the network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making state data propagation selective rather than universal. Each pipeline stage receives state data locally based on its specific needs and the reference count requirements, rather than all stages receiving all state data. This reduces redundant transmission while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes (reference counts and version identifiers) to control state data transmission dynamically. State data is transmitted only when the reference count indicates it is needed, and version identifiers ensure that only relevant updates are propagated. This parameter-based control eliminates redundant transmission while preserving pipeline throughput.
3Loss of information
If state data is propagated throughout the network, then pipeline stages have access to current state information, but unnecessary data transmission occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through reference counting mechanisms that track how many pipeline stages currently need a particular state object. This feedback system allows the system to propagate state data only when and where it is actually needed, ensuring state data availability while minimizing transmission overhead through intelligent, demand-driven propagation.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for executing an operation once work associated with a version of a state object has been completed. The method includes receiving the version of the state object at a first stage in a processing pipeline, where the version of the state object is associated with a reference count object, determining that the version of the state object is relevant to the first stage, incrementing a counter included in the reference count object, transmitting the version of the state object to a second stage in the processing pipeline, processing work associated with the version of the state object, decrementing the counter, determining that the counter is equal to zero, and in response, executing an operation specified by the reference count object.