Network Switching Device Dynamic Power Mode Handover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network switching devices face increased power consumption issues while trying to maintain performance, leading to potential interruptions in the switching process due to mode setting problems, which can result in extended downtime.
Innovation Solution
A network switching device with multiple switching blocks and a system control block that allows for dynamic operation mode switching between high and low power consumption modes without interrupting the switching process, using a standby or spare block to take over when necessary, and copying switching information to ensure seamless operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If the determination-operation mode of a switching block is changed to reduce power consumption, then power consumption is reduced, but the switching process may be interrupted resulting in extended interruption time
Solution Approach 1:
The system control block sets the determination-operation mode of the target switching block to a different mode (e.g., low-power mode) before the first switching block completes its switching-determination process. This preliminary mode setting ensures that when the target switching block takes over the switching process, it is already configured with the appropriate operation mode, avoiding mode changes during active switching and preventing interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system control block acts as an intermediary that coordinates the mode setting process and switching block transitions. It manages the handover from the first switching block to the target switching block, ensuring that mode changes occur smoothly without interrupting the switching-determination process. The system control block monitors the switching process status and triggers the mode setting at the optimal moment.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If multiple switching blocks are used to enable mode switching, then power consumption control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching-determination function is segmented across multiple switching blocks, allowing them to operate independently at different power modes. The first switching block handles active switching operations while the target switching block is prepared in a different mode. This segmentation enables flexible power management without requiring complete system reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple switching blocks are designed with identical functional capabilities, each able to perform the switching-determination process. This universality allows any switching block to take over from another, providing flexibility in power mode management. The system can dynamically assign different operation modes to different blocks based on traffic load and power requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Network switching arrangements including: setting an operation mode of a target switching block to a operation mode that is different from an operation mode of a first switching block while the first switching block is handling a switching process, the target switching block being one switching block selected from second switching blocks; performing a switchover process including starting the switching process using the target switching block instead of the first switching block, after completion of setting the operation mode of the target switching block; and copying the switching information held by the first switching block to the target switching block, prior to starting the switching process using the target switching block, after completion of setting the operation mode of the target switching block.