JP2011176509A - Multicast relaying apparatus, multicast relaying method, and multicast relaying program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To achieve bandwidth control within a secured bandwidth, bandwidth control according with a contrast form, and efficient bandwidth control. <P>SOLUTION: A multicast relaying apparatus 4 includes: a channel information table 61 wherein transfer quality classes for discrimination between a bandwidth secured class and a minimum bandwidth secured class and company information are stored; a bandwidth information table 62 wherein allocated bandwidths and bandwidth information of bandwidths for use per transfer quality class and piece of company information are stored; a bandwidth secured class distribution setting part 751 which performs distribution setting processing when a transfer quality class determination part 72 determines a transfer quality class to be the bandwidth secured class; and a minimum bandwidth secured class distribution setting part 753 which refers to bandwidth information stored in the bandwidth information table 62 to perform distribution setting processing when the transfer quality class determination part 72 determines the transfer quality class to be the minimum bandwidth secured class. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a multicast relay apparatus, a multicast relay method, and a multicast relay program that relay video (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as “channel”) distributed by IP multicast broadcasting.

  There is a “triple play service” which is a service combining “telephone”, “broadband connection”, and “IP multicast broadcasting” with a service provided by a fixed carrier. In the “Triple Play Service”, when video is distributed by IP multicast broadcast, bandwidth control of IP multicast broadcast is performed by provisioning (expecting the increase in users and communication volume, and increasing facilities early). Design and containment design. In other words, an IP multicast broadcast band is secured in advance between the multicast router and the user terminal, and video is distributed within the secured band (see Non-Patent Document 1).

  Conventional bandwidth control of IP multicast broadcasting will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram of a multicast relay system. An IP multicast broadcast is distributed from a multicast distribution server H (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as “distribution server”) owned by the operators A and B, and relayed to the viewing user terminal T via the multicast router R and the concentrator S Is done. At this time, if the number of viewing user terminals T is “10”, the number of viewing streams (channels) under the concentrator S is required according to the number of viewing user terminals T as shown in FIG. Estimate bandwidth and design bandwidth through provisioning.

  Here, it is assumed that the number of viewing user terminals T is changed to “15” in order to improve the accommodation rate. As the number of viewing user terminals T increases, it is possible to predict the number of viewing streams (channels) under the concentrator S and newly secure a bandwidth. However, since the bandwidth in the network is limited, the wasteful bandwidth is I do not want to secure as much as possible. For this reason, FIG. 12B shows a case where the band to be secured is smaller than the band based on the maximum number of viewing streams under the concentrator S. In that case, the bandwidth for viewing under the concentrator S may exceed the reserved bandwidth.

Hideki Kasahara, Kaoru Nishikido, Kazuhiro Oda, Kunihiro Onishi, Yoshio Kajiyama, “Network Fundamental Technology to Support Next Generation Networks”, NTT Technical Journal, April 2007, Apr. 2007, p.38-p.43

  As described above, when the amount of data used in the IP multicast broadcast exceeds the bandwidth reserved between the multicast router and the user terminal, it is used for the telephone service and the broadband connection service other than the IP multicast broadcast service. The band that should have been used is used, and the telephone service and the broadband connection service are adversely affected. In addition, if an attempt is made to fit within the reserved bandwidth, the quality of the IP multicast broadcast service may be degraded. Therefore, it is necessary to control the bandwidth within the bandwidth that secures the IP multicast broadcast.

  In addition, when considering various contract forms between a fixed carrier and a distribution carrier in the operation of an IP multicast broadcast service, it is possible to prevent a certain distribution carrier from occupying a band, Therefore, it is necessary to control the bandwidth according to the contract form.

  On the other hand, since the bandwidth in the network is limited, even if the bandwidth control within the reserved bandwidth and the bandwidth control according to the contract form are performed, the wasteful bandwidth that is not used is reduced as much as possible, and the bandwidth control is efficiently performed. There is a need to do.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and is capable of realizing bandwidth control within a reserved bandwidth, bandwidth control in accordance with a contract form, and efficient bandwidth control, a multicast relay device, and multicast It is an object to provide a relay method and a multicast relay program.

  In order to achieve the above object, a multicast relay device according to the present invention relays content via a network to a network in which content is distributed as a channel from a plurality of carriers by IP multicast broadcast and the distribution request for the channel is transferred. A multicast relay device, which is channel identification information that is information for identifying the channel, carrier information that identifies a carrier that is a distribution source of the channel, and secures a band that is used for relaying the channel in the network. Secure the minimum bandwidth that guarantees the relay of a predetermined number of channels, but guarantees the relay of a predetermined number of channels by securing the bandwidth reservation class channel that guarantees the relay of the channel or the bandwidth used for the relay of the channel shared by multiple channels A transfer quality class for identifying a channel of the class, and the channel A first storage unit that stores a channel bandwidth that is a bandwidth of the network required for relaying a network, and relays all channels of the bandwidth reservation class that may be relayed to the network for each carrier Allocated bandwidth of the bandwidth reservation class, which is a bandwidth required in the case of being used, bandwidth used of the bandwidth reservation class which is a used bandwidth among bandwidth allocation of the bandwidth reservation class, a predetermined number of minimum bandwidth reservation classes An allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, which is a bandwidth set in advance for relaying a channel, a used bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, which is a bandwidth used among the allocated bandwidths of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, Minimum bandwidth reservation class when there is a request for distribution setting of the minimum bandwidth reservation class channel exceeding the bandwidth allocation of the minimum bandwidth reservation class A shared allocation band that is a band that is used by a carrier for relaying the excess channel and a shared usage band that is used in the shared allocation band are stored in units of the second interface. When the storage unit and the distribution setting request for the channel are received, the first storage unit is searched using the channel identification information set in the distribution setting request as a key, and the channel corresponding to the channel identification information When the transfer quality class determination unit that acquires the transfer quality class and determines the transfer quality class of the channel and the transfer quality class determination unit determines that the transfer quality class of the channel is the bandwidth reservation class, The provider information of the channel is acquired from the first storage unit, and the bandwidth confirmation corresponding to the acquired provider information stored in the second storage unit is acquired. A bandwidth securing class distribution setting unit configured to add the channel band of the channel stored in the first storage unit to the use band of the protection class and to perform distribution setting so as to relay the channel to the multicast group address; When the transfer quality class determination unit determines that the transfer quality class of the channel is the minimum bandwidth reservation class, the carrier quality information of the channel is acquired from the first storage unit, and the second A value obtained by adding the channel band of the channel stored in the first storage unit to the use band of the minimum bandwidth reservation class corresponding to the acquired provider information stored in the storage unit It is determined whether or not the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth ensuring class corresponding to the information is exceeded. The channel bandwidth of the channel is added to the bandwidth used for the minimum bandwidth reservation class, and the distribution is set so that the channel is relayed to the multicast group address. It is determined whether or not a value obtained by adding the channel band of the channel to the shared use band stored in the storage unit exceeds the shared allocated band, and when the shared allocated band does not exceed, the channel band of the channel A minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit that does not set distribution of the channel when the shared allocation band is exceeded, and is set to be distributed so as to relay the channel to the multicast group address. It is characterized by providing.

  The multicast relay method according to the present invention is used for a multicast relay apparatus that relays content via a network to a network in which content is distributed as a channel from a plurality of carriers by IP multicast broadcast and the channel distribution request is transferred. The multicast relay apparatus is configured to perform channel identification information that is information for identifying the channel, carrier information that identifies a carrier that is a distribution source of the channel, and relay the channel to the network. Secure the bandwidth to be used and guarantee the relay of the corresponding channel, or secure the bandwidth used for relaying the channel shared by multiple channels to guarantee the relay of a predetermined number of channels, The minimum bandwidth reservation class that does not guarantee relaying A transfer quality class for identifying the channel, and a first storage unit that stores a channel band that is a band of the network required for relaying the channel, and a possibility of being relayed to the network for each operator Use of the bandwidth reservation class, which is a bandwidth that is used when relaying all the channels of the bandwidth reservation class, the bandwidth reservation class allocated bandwidth that is required, and the bandwidth reservation class allocated bandwidth that is used A bandwidth, a bandwidth that is set in advance for relaying a predetermined number of channels of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, and a bandwidth that is used among the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class and the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class. The use band of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class exceeding the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class When there is a communication setting request, a shared allocated band that is a band used by the operator for relaying the excess channel of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, and a shared usage that is used among the shared allocated bands And a second storage unit for storing the bandwidth for each interface, and when receiving the channel distribution setting request, the channel identification information set in the distribution setting request is used as a key. The first storage unit is searched, the transfer quality class corresponding to the channel identification information is acquired, the transfer quality class of the channel is determined, and the transfer quality class of the channel is determined to be the bandwidth securing class. In the case, the band information corresponding to the acquired provider information stored in the second storage unit is acquired from the first storage unit. The channel bandwidth of the channel stored in the first storage unit is added to the use bandwidth of the area reservation class, and the distribution setting is performed so that the channel is relayed to the multicast group address. When it is determined that the class is the minimum bandwidth reservation class, the operator information of the channel is acquired from the first storage unit, and the acquired operator information stored in the second storage unit The value obtained by adding the channel band of the channel stored in the first storage unit to the use band of the corresponding minimum band reservation class exceeds the allocated band of the minimum band reservation class corresponding to the provider information. If the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class does not exceed the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, the channel bandwidth of the channel is used. In addition to adding to the bandwidth, distribution setting is performed so that the channel is relayed to the multicast group address. When the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class is exceeded, the shared use bandwidth stored in the second storage unit It is determined whether or not a value obtained by adding the channel bandwidth of a channel exceeds the shared allocated bandwidth. When the shared bandwidth is not exceeded, the channel bandwidth of the channel is added to the shared used bandwidth, and the channel is The distribution is set so as to relay to the multicast group address, and the distribution setting of the channel is not performed when the shared allocated bandwidth is exceeded.

  The multicast relay program according to the present invention is executed by the multicast relay device.

  By doing in this way, the multicast relay device, the multicast relay method, and the multicast relay program perform channel bandwidth control in units of operators and in units of transfer quality classes, and for channels whose transfer quality class is the minimum bandwidth reservation class. Share bandwidth between operators. Therefore, according to the multicast relay device, the multicast relay method, and the multicast relay program according to the present invention, it is possible to realize bandwidth control within the reserved bandwidth, bandwidth control according to the contract form, and efficient bandwidth control. it can.

  The multicast relay device according to the present invention further includes a third storage unit that stores, for each channel of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, the number of distributions under the interface that relays the channel in units of the interface, The second storage unit includes the allocated bandwidth of the bandwidth reservation class of each operator, the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, and the total allocated bandwidth that is the sum of the shared allocated bandwidth, use of the bandwidth reservation class of each operator Bandwidth, total bandwidth used for the minimum bandwidth reservation class, and total bandwidth used for the shared bandwidth usage, overuse of unused bandwidth that has not been used for a predetermined time in the bandwidth allocation class allocated bandwidth for the shared bandwidth allocation The post-sub shared allocated bandwidth is further stored, and the bandwidth ensuring class distribution setting unit is configured to transmit the channel quality class determining unit to the channel quality determining unit. When the transfer quality class is determined to be the bandwidth securing class, the operator information of the channel is acquired from the first storage unit, and the total use bandwidth stored in the second storage unit is obtained. It is determined whether or not a value obtained by adding the channel bandwidths of the channel stored in the first storage unit exceeds the total allocated bandwidth, and when not exceeding the total allocated bandwidth, stored in the second storage unit The channel bandwidth of the channel stored in the first storage unit is added to the bandwidth used for the bandwidth reservation class corresponding to the acquired provider information, and the channel is addressed to the multicast group address. The distribution is set to be relayed, and when the total allocated bandwidth is exceeded, the number of distributions among the distribution channels stored in the third storage unit is small The relay is stopped in order from the channel, the distribution is set using the band of the channel for which the relay is stopped, and the second storage unit when the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit exceeds the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class It is determined whether or not a value obtained by adding the channel band of the channel to the shared use band stored in the block exceeds the post-oversub-shared allocation band. Determining whether a value obtained by adding the channel band of the channel stored in the first storage unit to the total use band stored in the second storage unit exceeds the total allocated bandwidth; When the allocated bandwidth is not exceeded, the channel bandwidth of the channel is added to the shared use bandwidth, and the channel is added to the multicast group address. The distribution is set so as to relay to the destination, and the distribution is not set when the over-sub shared shared allocated band is exceeded and when the total allocated band is exceeded.

  By doing so, the multicast relay device monitors the remaining bandwidth of the bandwidth reservation class, and accumulates the remaining bandwidth that is not used within the predetermined time in the allocated bandwidth of the shared bandwidth (oversub). Therefore, according to the multicast relay device according to the present invention, more efficient bandwidth control can be realized.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to realize bandwidth control within a reserved bandwidth, bandwidth control according to a contract form, and efficient bandwidth control.

1 is a configuration diagram of a multicast relay system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a functional block diagram of the multicast relay apparatus (multicast router) which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a data block diagram of the channel information table memorize | stored in the memory | storage part of the multicast relay apparatus concerning 1st Embodiment. It is a data block diagram of the zone | band information table memorize | stored in the memory | storage part of the multicast relay apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart figure for demonstrating operation | movement of the multicast relay apparatus concerning 1st Embodiment. It is a function block diagram of the multicast relay apparatus (multicast router) which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a data block diagram of the zone | band information table memorize | stored in the memory | storage part of the multicast relay apparatus concerning 2nd Embodiment. It is a data block diagram of the channel delivery number table memorize | stored in the memory | storage part of the multicast relay apparatus concerning 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the setting of the over sub of a shared band. It is a flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the multicast relay apparatus concerning 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the conventional multicast relay system. It is a figure explaining the relationship between the number of streams under a line concentrator, and a limit zone | band.

<< Configuration of Multicast Relay System According to First Embodiment >>
(Overview)
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a multicast relay system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The multicast relay system 1 includes distribution servers 2A, 2B,..., 2N (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as “distribution server 2”), user terminals 3Aa,..., 3An, 3Ba,. ,..., 3Cn (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as “user terminal 3A”, “user terminal 3B”, “user terminal 3C”, or “user terminal 3”), upstream multicast router 4A, downstream multicast router 4B, 4C, 4D (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as “multicast router 4”) and concentrators 5A, 5B, and 5C (hereinafter collectively referred to as “line concentrator 5”). . Distribution server 2, multicast router 4, and line concentrator 5 are arranged in IP network 9.

  First, an outline of the process of joining the user terminal 3 in the multicast relay system 1 to the multicast group (a set of terminals that receive packets transmitted to a certain multicast group address) and leaving the multicast group will be described. When the user terminal 3 requests participation in the multicast group, the downstream multicast routers 4B, 4C, 4D receive the participation request. Next, the downstream multicast routers 4B, 4C, and 4D that have received the participation request transmit the received participation requests to the upstream multicast router 4A. In this way, a multicast path is generated in order from the downstream router to the upstream router. When generating a multicast route, the protocol between the user terminal 3 and the downstream multicast routers 4B, 4C, 4D uses, for example, IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol), MLD (Multicast Listener Discovery), or the like. The protocol between the downstream multicast routers B, 4C, 4D and the upstream multicast router 4A uses, for example, PIM-SM (Protocol Independent Multicast-Sparse Mode).

  Then, the packet transmitted from the distribution server 2 to the multicast group address is transferred to the user terminals 3 participating in the corresponding multicast group using the multicast route generated by the multicast router 4. Hereinafter, each device configuring the multicast relay system 1 will be described.

  The distribution server 2 is a server that supports multicast and distributes IP multicast broadcasts. Specifically, the distribution server 2 converts the broadcast video into an IP packet and transmits it to the multicast group address.

  The user terminal 3 is, for example, a receiver for IP multicast broadcasting, a television via an STB (Set-Top Box) (not shown), a PC (Personal Computer) provided with terminal software corresponding to multicast. The user terminal 3 transmits notifications such as joining and leaving the multicast group to the accommodated multicast router 4 via the line concentrator 5.

  The multicast router 4 serving as a multicast relay device is a multicast compatible router. The multicast router 4 receives a notification from the user terminal 3 such as joining a multicast group and generates a multicast route. The multicast router 4 relays IP multicast broadcast IP packets to the user terminal 3 in accordance with the generated multicast route. Details of the function of the multicast router 4 will be described later.

  The line concentrator 5 is, for example, a layer 2 switch, duplicates an IP packet for IP multicast broadcasting, and transmits it to the user terminal 3. The line concentrator 5 may hold the MLD Proxy function and the MLD Snooping function to perform distribution control, and the line concentrator 5 may realize a multicast router function similar to the multicast router 4.

<< Function of Multicast Relay Device According to First Embodiment >>
(Overview)
FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multicast router 4 (multicast relay device) according to the first embodiment.
The multicast router 4 includes a storage unit 6, a control unit 7, and a communication unit 8. The storage unit 6 of the multicast router 4 stores a channel information table (first storage unit) 61 and a bandwidth information table (second storage unit) 62. The control unit 7 of the multicast router 4 includes a communication control unit 71, a transfer quality class determination unit 72, a signal type determination unit 73, a multicast transfer unit 74, and an acceptance control unit 75. The communication unit 8 of the multicast router 4 includes an upstream interface 81 and a downstream interface 82. Hereinafter, each function with which the multicast router 4 is provided is demonstrated.

<Information stored in the storage unit>
FIG. 3 is a data configuration diagram of the channel information table (first storage unit) 61 according to the first embodiment. The channel information table 61 is set in advance by an administrator who manages the multicast relay system 1 via a multicast management server (not shown). Each multicast router 4 is provided with one channel information table 61.

  In the multicast identifier (channel identification information) 611, information for identifying a video (channel) transmitted from the distribution server 2 is set. For example, a group address set in the user terminal 3 or a set of a group address and a source address set in the distribution server 2 is set. In the business operator (business operator information) 612, information for identifying the business operator that distributes the channel is set.

  In the transfer quality class (QoS class) 613, information for identifying to which contract form the network use providing service in the channel distribution to the distribution carrier of the fixed communication carrier belongs is set. Here, in the present embodiment, three services of “band securing channel”, “minimum bandwidth securing channel”, and “band non-secure channel (best effort channel)” are set. “Band reservation type channel” is a service that allocates a band for a channel specified by provisioning so that the specified channel can be viewed without fail, and distributes the channel using the band, and as a transfer quality class 613 “Band reservation (hereinafter sometimes referred to as“ QoS1 ”)” is set. “Minimum bandwidth reservation type channel” allocates a minimum distributable bandwidth, first distributes the channel using that bandwidth, and distributes channels that exceed the allocated bandwidth for shared bandwidth (in the minimum bandwidth reservation class). Is a service that distributes a channel using a band allocated as a band shared between providers, and “Minimum bandwidth reservation (hereinafter sometimes referred to as“ QoS2 ”)” is set as the transfer quality class 613. Is done. “Band non-reserved channel (best-effort channel)” is a service that does not secure a band and does not manage the band, and distributes all channels for which distribution is requested. (Hereinafter sometimes referred to as “BE”) ”is set.

  The bandwidth reservation type is assumed to be used in a channel or the like that is constantly viewed at a high audience rating. The minimum bandwidth reservation type is assumed to be used in a channel having a low audience rating and a variation in viewing tendency. In other words, by setting these classes (types), it is effective from the viewpoint of quality assurance that the popular channel that is always watched is to secure the bandwidth, and there is a variation in viewing tendency at a low viewing rate. The channel can be expected to improve the band utilization efficiency by sharing the band in consideration of the simultaneous viewing number. The band non-reserved type is assumed to be used in a distribution service that is priced cheaply instead of allowing deterioration in distribution quality when the network is congested. In the channel band 614, a band required for communication of each channel is set.

  FIG. 4 is a data configuration diagram of the bandwidth information table (second storage unit) 62 according to the first embodiment. The bandwidth information table 62 is set in advance by provisioning at the time of service registration by an administrator who manages the multicast relay system 1 via a multicast management server (not shown). The bandwidth information table 62 is provided for each downstream interface 82 unit that the multicast router 4 has, which will be described later.

  The band type 621 represents the type of each service to which a band is assigned and the total band. “A company's bandwidth reservation” in FIG. 4 indicates that it is a company A's bandwidth reservation channel. “Company A's minimum bandwidth reservation” indicates that it is a minimum bandwidth reservation channel of Company A. “B Company B Bandwidth Reservation” indicates that the B Company has a band secured channel. “Company B's minimum bandwidth reservation” indicates a minimum bandwidth reservation channel of Company B. “Shared band” indicates that the band is shared by the minimum band securing channel of all the operators. “Total bandwidth” is the sum of bandwidths of all services.

  The allocated band 622 stores a band (allocated band) allocated to the service indicated by the band type 621. The used band 623 stores a band (used band) used by the service indicated by the band type 621. The remaining band 624 stores a remaining band obtained by subtracting the used band 623 from the allocated band 622 to the service indicated by the band type 621. The allocated band 622 when the band type 621 is “shared band” is the shared allocated band. The use band 623 when the band type 621 is “shared band” is set as a shared use band.

<Functions of the control unit>
The function described as “XXX part” in the control unit 7 shown in FIG. 2 is that the control unit 7 executes a program (not shown) stored in the storage unit 6 by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) (not shown). Realize with. In addition, description of the function of the control part 7 demonstrates the case where the process between the user terminal 3 and downstream multicast router 4B, 4C, 4D is performed using MLD as an example. When IGMP is used, processing between the upstream multicast router 4A and the downstream multicast routers 4B, 4C, and 4D is not described. However, those skilled in the art can use the following description for these processing. It is.

  The communication control unit 71 transmits data to the upstream communication network and the downstream communication network connected via the upstream interface 81 and the downstream interface 82, or from the upstream communication network and the downstream communication network. Receive data. Hereinafter, when there is a description that “the XX unit transmits or receives data”, the communication control unit 71 and the upstream communication network connected via the upstream interface unit 81 and the downstream interface 82 and It is assumed that data is transmitted to the downstream communication network or data is received from the upstream communication network and the downstream communication network.

  The transfer quality class determination unit 72 determines the transfer quality class (613) of the channel for which a request for joining and leaving the multicast group transmitted from the user terminal 3 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “MLD request signal”) is made. judge. Specifically, the transfer quality class determination unit 72 searches the channel information table 61 shown in FIG. 3 using the multicast identifier 611 set in the MLD request signal as a key, and selects the corresponding transfer quality class (613). Acquire and determine the acquired transfer quality class. When the acquired transfer quality class (613) is “bandwidth reservation (QoS1)”, the transfer quality class determination unit 72 determines that the channel is a band reservation class and is “minimum bandwidth reservation (QoS2)”. If it is “band non-reserved (BE)”, it is determined that the channel is a band non-reserved class.

  In the following, when the functions and the like are described using the symbols in the data configuration diagrams of FIGS. 3 and 4, the symbols without parentheses (for example, the above-mentioned “transfer quality class 613”) are the logics in which data is stored. A symbol in parentheses (for example, the above-mentioned “transfer quality class (613)”) represents data stored in the logical region or stored data itself.

  Returning to FIG. 2, the signal type determination unit 73 determines that the MLD request signal is a request to join the multicast group (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “distribution setting request”) and a request to leave the multicast group (hereinafter, “distribution stop request”). Is sometimes called). Specifically, the signal type determination unit 73 acquires the signal type set in the MLD request signal and determines the acquired signal type. The signal type determination unit 73 determines that the MLD request signal is a distribution setting request when the acquired signal type is “distribution setting (Allow)”, and when the acquired signal type is “distribution stop (Block)”, MLD. It is determined that the request signal is a distribution stop request.

  The multicast transfer unit 74 receives information on the channel to start transfer and the group address of the transfer destination from the reception control unit 75, and starts transfer of the corresponding channel via the downstream interface 82. Further, the multicast transfer unit 74 receives information on the channel for which transfer is to be stopped and the group address of the transfer destination from the reception control unit 75, and stops transfer of the corresponding channel.

  The reception control unit 75 includes a bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751, a bandwidth reservation class distribution stop unit 752, a minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753, a minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution stop unit 754, and a band non-secure class distribution setting. Unit 755 and a band non-reserved class distribution stop unit 756. When receiving the distribution setting request, the reception control unit 75 performs distribution setting processing based on the band state. Further, the reception control unit 75 performs distribution stop processing when receiving a distribution stop request. In addition, the reception control unit 75 instructs the multicast transfer unit 74 to start or stop channel transfer. Furthermore, the received distribution setting request or distribution stop request is transmitted to the upstream multicast router 4A. Hereinafter, each function which comprises the reception control part 75 is demonstrated.

The band securing class distribution setting unit 751 performs distribution setting processing for a channel whose transfer quality class (613) (see FIG. 3) is “bandwidth securing (QoS1)”. Specifically, it is determined that the transfer quality class (613) acquired by the transfer quality class determination unit 72 is “bandwidth securing (QoS1)”, and the signal type acquired by the signal type determination unit 73 is “distribution setting”. When it is determined that (Allow) ”, the bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751 performs the following processing. The bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751 searches the channel information table 61 shown in FIG. 3 using the multicast identifier 611 set in the MLD request signal as a key, and searches for the corresponding carrier (612) and channel bandwidth (614). And the acquired channel bandwidth (614) is added to the bandwidth usage bandwidth (623) and the bandwidth usage bandwidth (623) of the total bandwidth in the bandwidth information table 62 shown in FIG. Furthermore, the acquired channel bandwidth (614) is subtracted from the remaining bandwidth (624) for securing the bandwidth of the corresponding operator (612).
Note that the bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751 searches the channel information table 61 shown in FIG. 3 using the multicast identifier 611 set in the MLD request signal as a key, and searches for the corresponding carrier (612) and channel bandwidth ( 614), and the value obtained by adding the acquired channel bandwidth (614) to the bandwidth secured use bandwidth (623) of the relevant operator (612) in the bandwidth information table 62 shown in FIG. It may be determined whether or not the allocated bandwidth (622) for securing the bandwidth of 612) is exceeded.

  The bandwidth reservation class distribution stop unit 752 performs the distribution stop processing for the channel whose transfer quality class (613) is “bandwidth reservation (QoS1)”. Specifically, it is determined that the transfer quality class (613) acquired by the transfer quality class determination unit 72 is “bandwidth securing (QoS1)”, and the signal type acquired by the signal type determination unit 73 is “delivery stop”. When it is determined that it is (Block) ”, the band securing class distribution stop unit 752 performs the following processing. The bandwidth reservation class distribution stop unit 752 searches the channel information table 61 shown in FIG. 3 using the multicast identifier 611 set in the MLD request signal as a key, and searches for the corresponding carrier (612) and channel bandwidth (614). And the obtained channel bandwidth (614) is subtracted from the bandwidth used bandwidth (623) and the total bandwidth bandwidth (623) of the corresponding carrier (612) in the bandwidth information table 62 shown in FIG. Furthermore, the acquired channel bandwidth (614) is added to the remaining bandwidth (624) for securing the bandwidth of the corresponding operator (612).

  The minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753 performs distribution setting processing for a channel whose transfer quality class (613) is “minimum bandwidth reservation (QoS2)”. Specifically, it is determined that the transfer quality class (613) acquired by the transfer quality class determination unit 72 is “minimum bandwidth reservation (QoS2)”, and the signal type acquired by the signal type determination unit 73 is “distribution”. When it is determined that the setting is “Allow”, the minimum bandwidth ensuring class distribution setting unit 753 performs the following processing.

  First, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753 searches the channel information table 61 shown in FIG. 3 using the multicast identifier 611 set in the MLD request signal as a key, and searches for the corresponding carrier (612) and channel. A value obtained by acquiring the bandwidth (614) and adding the acquired channel bandwidth (614) to the used bandwidth (623) for securing the minimum bandwidth of the corresponding carrier (612) in the bandwidth information table 62 shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not the allocated bandwidth (622) for securing the minimum bandwidth of the business operator (612) is exceeded. When it is determined that the allocated bandwidth (622) for securing the minimum bandwidth does not exceed the allocated bandwidth (622), the minimum bandwidth securing class distribution setting unit 753 uses the bandwidth reserved for securing the minimum bandwidth of the corresponding carrier (612) in the bandwidth information table 62 shown in FIG. (623) and the used bandwidth (623) of the total bandwidth are added to the acquired channel bandwidth (614), and further, the acquired channel bandwidth is obtained from the remaining bandwidth (624) for securing the minimum bandwidth of the corresponding operator (612). Subtract (614). On the other hand, when it is determined that the allocated bandwidth (622) for securing the minimum bandwidth is exceeded, the minimum bandwidth securing class distribution setting unit 753 uses the acquired channel bandwidth (614) as the used bandwidth (623) of the shared bandwidth in the bandwidth information table 62. It is determined whether or not the added value exceeds the shared bandwidth allocation bandwidth (622).

  When the minimum bandwidth ensuring class distribution setting unit 753 determines that it does not exceed the shared bandwidth allocated bandwidth (622), the shared bandwidth usage bandwidth (623) and the total bandwidth of the bandwidth information table 62 shown in FIG. The acquired channel band (614) is added to the used band (623), and the acquired channel band (614) is subtracted from the remaining band (624) of the shared band. When it is determined that the allocated bandwidth exceeds the allocated bandwidth (622), the MLD request signal is discarded without performing the distribution setting processing for the channel.

  The minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution stop unit 754 performs distribution stop processing for a channel whose transfer quality class (613) is “minimum bandwidth reservation (QoS2)”. Specifically, it is determined that the transfer quality class (613) acquired by the transfer quality class determination unit 72 is “minimum bandwidth reservation (QoS2)”, and the signal type acquired by the signal type determination unit 73 is “distribution”. When it is determined that it is “Stop”, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution stop unit 754 performs the following processing.

  The minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution stopping unit 754 searches the channel information table 61 shown in FIG. 3 using the multicast identifier 611 set in the MLD request signal as a key, and searches for the corresponding carrier (612) and channel bandwidth (614). ), And subtract the acquired channel bandwidth (614) from the shared bandwidth usage bandwidth (623) and the total bandwidth usage bandwidth (623) of the bandwidth information table 62 shown in FIG. The acquired channel band (614) is added to the remaining band (624) for securing the minimum band in (612). In addition, when the applicable provider (612) does not use the shared band, the used band (623) and the total band for securing the minimum band of the corresponding provider (612) in the band information table 62 shown in FIG. The obtained channel bandwidth (614) is subtracted from the used bandwidth (623) of the network, and the obtained channel bandwidth (614) is added to the remaining bandwidth (624) for securing the minimum bandwidth of the corresponding operator (612). .

  The band non-reserved class distribution setting unit 755 performs distribution setting processing for a channel whose transfer quality class (613) is “band non-reserved (BE)”. Specifically, it is determined that the transfer quality class (613) acquired by the transfer quality class determination unit 72 is “bandwidth unsecured (QoS2)”, and the signal type acquired by the signal type determination unit 73 is “distribution”. When it is determined that the setting is “Allow”, the band non-reserved class distribution setting unit 755 performs distribution setting processing.

  The band non-reserved class distribution stopping unit 756 performs distribution stop processing for a channel whose transfer quality class (613) is “band non-reserved (BE)”. Specifically, it is determined that the transfer quality class (613) acquired by the transfer quality class determination unit 72 is “band non-reserved (BE)”, and the signal type acquired by the signal type determination unit 73 is “distribution”. If it is determined that it is “Stop”, the band non-reserved class distribution stop unit 756 performs a distribution stop process.

<Functions of the communication unit>
The communication unit 8 is a communication interface that connects to another device via the IP network 9. Of the communication unit 8, a portion connected to the communication network on the distribution server 2 side (upstream side) is referred to as an upstream interface 81, and a portion connected to the communication network on the user terminal 3 side (downstream side) is referred to as a downstream interface 82. Call.

<< Operation of Channel Distribution Setting Process and Channel Distribution Stop Process of Multicast Router According to First Embodiment >>
FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the channel distribution setting process and the channel distribution stop process of the multicast router 4 according to the first embodiment. Hereinafter, operations of the channel distribution setting process and the channel distribution stop process of the multicast router 4 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When receiving the MLD request signal, the transfer quality class determination unit 72 determines the transfer quality class (QoS class) 613 of the requested channel (step S001). If the QoS class is “bandwidth reservation (QoS1)”, the process proceeds to step S002. If the QoS class is “minimum bandwidth reservation (QoS2)”, the process proceeds to step S004. If the QoS class is “bandwidth unreserved (BE)”, the process proceeds to step S008.

  If it is determined in step S001 that the transfer quality class (QoS class) (613) is “bandwidth reservation (QoS1)”, the signal type determination unit 73 determines the MLD signal type set in the MLD request signal. (Step S002). If the MLD signal type is “distribution setting (Allow)”, the process proceeds to step S003. If the MLD signal type is “delivery stop (Block)”, the process proceeds to step S010.

  When the MLD signal type is “distribution setting (Allow)” in step S002, the band securing class distribution setting unit 751 searches the channel information table 61 to determine the corresponding provider (provider information) (612). (Step S003). Next, the band securing class distribution setting unit 751 changes the band securing usage band (623) of the corresponding carrier (612) in the band information table 62 and starts the transfer of the channel corresponding to the multicast forwarding unit 74. Is instructed to perform distribution setting processing (step S009).

  When the MLD signal type is “Distribution Stop (Block)” in step S002, the bandwidth reservation class distribution stop unit 752 uses the bandwidth reservation usage bandwidth (623) of the corresponding carrier (612) in the bandwidth information table 62, and the like. And the multicast transfer unit 74 is instructed to stop the transfer of the corresponding channel to perform the distribution stop process (step S010).

  When it is determined in step S001 that the transfer quality class (QoS class) (613) is “minimum bandwidth reservation (QoS2)”, the signal type determination unit 73 determines the MLD signal type set in the MLD request signal. (Step S004). If the MLD signal type is “distribution setting (Allow)”, the process proceeds to step S005. If the MLD signal type is “delivery stop (Block)”, the process proceeds to step S010.

  When the MLD signal type is “distribution setting (Allow)” in step S004, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753 searches the channel information table 61 to determine the corresponding carrier (612) (step S005). ). Next, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753 sends a distribution setting request to the remaining bandwidth (624) (shown as “QoS2 empty bandwidth”) of the minimum bandwidth reservation of the corresponding carrier (612) in the bandwidth information table 62. It is determined whether or not there is a band larger than the channel band (614) (shown as “required band”) in the channel information table 61 of the channel where the error occurred (step S006). If there is a band larger than the requested band in the remaining band (QoS2 empty band) for securing the minimum band (step S006 “yes”), the process proceeds to step S009.

  In step S <b> 009, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753 changes the use bandwidth for the minimum bandwidth reservation of the corresponding carrier (612) in the bandwidth information table 62 and starts the transfer of the corresponding channel to the multicast transfer unit 74. The distribution setting process is performed.

  On the other hand, when there is no band larger than the requested band in the remaining band (QoS2 empty band) (624) for securing the minimum band (step S006 “no”), the process proceeds to step S007. In step S007, the minimum bandwidth ensuring class distribution setting unit 753 determines whether or not there is a bandwidth larger than the requested bandwidth in the remaining bandwidth (624) (shown as “shared free bandwidth”) of the shared bandwidth in the bandwidth information table 62. judge.

  When the remaining bandwidth (shared free bandwidth) (624) of the shared bandwidth has a bandwidth larger than the requested bandwidth (step S007 “yes”), the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753 sets the shared bandwidth of the bandwidth information table 62. The distribution setting process is performed by changing the use band and instructing the multicast transfer unit 74 to start the transfer of the corresponding channel (step S009).

  On the other hand, when there is no band larger than the requested band in the remaining band (shared empty band) (624) of the shared band (step S007 “no”), the minimum band ensuring class distribution setting unit 753 sets the distribution setting of the corresponding channel. Without processing, the MLD request signal is discarded (step S011).

  When it is determined in step S001 that the transfer quality class (QoS class) (613) is “band non-reserved (BE)”, the signal type determination unit 73 determines the MLD signal type set in the MLD request signal. (Step S004). If the MLD signal type is “distribution setting (Allow)”, the process proceeds to step S009. If the MLD signal type is “delivery stop (Block)”, the process proceeds to step S010.

  When the MLD signal type is “distribution setting (Allow)” in step S008, the band non-reserved class distribution setting unit 755 instructs the multicast transfer unit 74 to start the transfer of the corresponding channel to perform the distribution setting process. This is performed (step S009).

In step S008, when the MLD signal type is “delivery stop (Block)”, the band non-reserved class delivery stop unit 756 instructs the multicast transfer unit 74 to stop the transfer of the corresponding channel, and performs the delivery stop process. Perform (step S010).
Above, description of operation | movement of the channel delivery setting process of the multicast router 4 which concerns on 1st Embodiment, and a channel delivery stop process is complete | finished.

  As described above, the multicast relay apparatus and the multicast relay method according to the first embodiment perform channel bandwidth control in units of operators and transfer quality classes, and for channels whose transfer quality class is the minimum bandwidth reservation class. Can share bandwidth between operators. Therefore, according to the multicast relay device and the multicast relay method according to the first embodiment, it is possible to realize bandwidth control within the reserved bandwidth, bandwidth control according to the contract form, and efficient bandwidth control.

<< Configuration of Multicast Relay System According to Second Embodiment >>
(Overview)
Since the multicast router 4 according to the first embodiment always secures the bandwidth of the bandwidth reservation class channel, as shown in FIG. 4, the bandwidth reservation class bandwidth is not used and becomes a remaining bandwidth. It is possible. In the second embodiment, the remaining bandwidth of the bandwidth reservation class is used effectively. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a method for effectively using the remaining bandwidth of the bandwidth reservation class. FIG. 9A shows the change in the bandwidth used in the bandwidth reservation class with the passage of time of Company A. FIG. 9B shows a change in the bandwidth usage of the bandwidth reservation class with the passage of time of Company B. Here, the use band or the remaining band for securing the band for a predetermined time is monitored to grasp how much the remaining band is not used within the predetermined time (steady). Then, the grasped remaining bandwidth is added to the shared bandwidth allocation bandwidth (622) of FIG. 4 (this is hereinafter referred to as “over-sub”). In FIG. 9A, it is grasped that 600 Mbps is a remaining bandwidth that is not regularly used in FIG. 9B, and a total of 900 Mbps is added to the shared bandwidth allocated bandwidth (622).

  The configuration of the multicast relay system 1a according to the second embodiment of the present invention is the same as that of the multicast relay system 1 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG.

  The functions of the multicast router 4 are different between the first embodiment and the second embodiment. FIG. 6 is a functional configuration diagram of the multicast router 4a (multicast relay device) according to the second embodiment. The multicast router 4 a according to the second embodiment is different from the multicast router 4 according to the first embodiment in that a channel distribution number table (third storage unit) 63 is added to the storage unit 6. 6 is different from the bandwidth information table 62a in FIG. 6 in that the bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751a and the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753a of the reception control unit 75a of the control unit 7 are changed. Hereinafter, only differences from the multicast router 4 according to the first embodiment will be described, and similar functions will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted.

<Information stored in the storage unit>
FIG. 7 is a data configuration diagram of the bandwidth information table 62a according to the second embodiment. The bandwidth information table 62a has the same data configuration as the bandwidth information table 62 according to the first embodiment, but the stored data is different. As a premise, the remaining bandwidth (624) “150 (Mbps)” for securing the A company band and the remaining bandwidth (624) “100 (Mbps)” for securing the B company band are within a predetermined time (steady) grasped by monitoring or the like. It is assumed that the remaining bandwidth (624) is not used. Therefore, “250 (Mbps)”, which is the sum of the remaining bandwidth (624) “150 (Mbps)” for securing the company A bandwidth and the remaining bandwidth (624) “100 (Mbps)” for securing the company B bandwidth, Oversubscribe to the allocated bandwidth (622). Therefore, the allocated bandwidth of the shared bandwidth is increased from (622) “850 (Mbps)” to “1100 (Mbps)”, and accordingly, the remaining bandwidth (624) of the shared bandwidth is also changed from “700 (Mbps)” to “ 950 (Mbps) ". Here, the remaining bandwidth (624) is not oversubscribed to the allocated bandwidth (622) of the total bandwidth. Since the oversub is to use the remaining bandwidth (624) that is not used for a predetermined time (stationary) in the allocated bandwidth (622) for securing the bandwidth as the shared bandwidth, the actual total bandwidth has not increased. It is.

  In this embodiment, the remaining bandwidth (624) for securing the band is added (oversub) to the allocated bandwidth (622) of the shared bandwidth. However, the shared bandwidth allocated bandwidth (622) (oversub You may make it hold | maintain a post-shared allocation band) as an item different from the allocation band (622) of the shared band before an oversub.

  FIG. 8 is a data configuration diagram of the channel distribution number table (third storage unit) 63 according to the second embodiment. The channel distribution number table 63 is provided for each downstream interface 82 included in the multicast router 4a. The channel distribution number table 63 stores the number of distributions (632) under the downstream interface 82 corresponding to the minimum bandwidth reservation class channel. The channel distribution number table 63 may also store the number of distributions of channels in the bandwidth reservation class. The multicast identifier 631 is set with a transfer quality class (613) of “minimum bandwidth secured” among the multicast identifiers 611 of the channel information table 61 shown in FIG.

<Functions of the control unit>
(Reception Control Department)
When receiving the distribution setting request, the reception control unit 75a illustrated in FIG. 6 performs distribution setting processing based on the state of the band. In addition, the reception control unit 75a performs a distribution stop process when receiving a distribution stop request. In addition, the reception control unit 75a instructs the multicast transfer unit 74 to start or stop channel transfer. Further, a request corresponding to the received distribution setting request or distribution stop request is transmitted to the upstream multicast router 4A.

  The band securing class distribution setting unit 751a performs distribution setting processing for a channel whose transfer quality class (613) is “bandwidth securing (QoS1)”. Specifically, it is determined that the transfer quality class (613) acquired by the transfer quality class determination unit 72 is “bandwidth securing (QoS1)”, and the signal type acquired by the signal type determination unit 73 is “distribution setting”. When it is determined that “Allow” ”, the bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751a performs the following processing. The bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751a searches the channel information table 61 shown in FIG. 3 using the multicast identifier 611 set in the MLD request signal as a key, and searches for the corresponding carrier (612) and channel bandwidth (614). , And the value obtained by adding the acquired channel bandwidth (614) to the total bandwidth used bandwidth (623) of the bandwidth information table 62a shown in FIG. 7 is the total bandwidth allocated bandwidth (622) (hereinafter referred to as “maximum allocated bandwidth”). It is determined whether or not it exceeds.

  When it is determined that the maximum allocated bandwidth is not exceeded, the bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751a uses the bandwidth reserved usage bandwidth (623) and the total bandwidth usage of the corresponding carrier (612) in the bandwidth information table 62a shown in FIG. The acquired channel bandwidth (614) is added to the bandwidth (623), and the acquired channel bandwidth (614) is further subtracted from the remaining bandwidth (624) for securing the bandwidth of the corresponding operator (612). When it is determined that the maximum allocated bandwidth is exceeded, the bandwidth reservation class delivery setting unit 751a determines the multicast identifier (631) having the smallest delivery number (632) among the channels delivered from the channel delivery number table 63 shown in FIG. ), And using the acquired multicast identifier 631 as a key, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution stop unit 754 performs the distribution stop processing for the corresponding channel. If the bandwidth is insufficient, the channel distribution stop process (relay stop) may be performed in the order of decreasing channel distribution. Next, similarly to the case where it is determined that the maximum allocated bandwidth is not exceeded, the bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751a performs the distribution setting processing for the channel whose transfer quality class (613) is “bandwidth reservation (QoS1)”.

  The minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753a performs distribution setting processing for a channel whose transfer quality class (613) is “minimum bandwidth reservation (QoS2)”. Specifically, it is determined that the transfer quality class (613) acquired by the transfer quality class determination unit 72 is “minimum bandwidth reservation (QoS2)”, and the signal type acquired by the signal type determination unit 73 is “distribution”. When it is determined that the setting is “Allow”, the minimum bandwidth ensuring class distribution setting unit 753a performs the following processing.

  First, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753a searches the channel information table 61 shown in FIG. 3 using the multicast identifier 611 set in the MLD request signal as a key, and searches for the corresponding carrier (612) and channel. The band (614) is acquired, and the value obtained by adding the acquired channel band (614) to the use band (623) for securing the minimum band of the corresponding carrier (612) in the band information table 62a shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not the allocated bandwidth (622) for securing the minimum bandwidth of the business operator (612) is exceeded. When it is determined that the allocated bandwidth (622) for securing the minimum bandwidth does not exceed the allocated bandwidth (622), the minimum bandwidth securing class distribution setting unit 753a uses the bandwidth for securing the minimum bandwidth of the corresponding carrier (612) in the bandwidth information table 62a shown in FIG. (623) and the used bandwidth (623) of the total bandwidth are added to the acquired channel bandwidth (614), and further, the acquired channel bandwidth is obtained from the remaining bandwidth (624) for securing the minimum bandwidth of the corresponding operator (612). Subtract (614).

  When it is determined that the allocated bandwidth (622) of the minimum bandwidth is exceeded, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753a adds the acquired channel bandwidth (614) to the shared bandwidth usage bandwidth (623) of the bandwidth information table 62a. It is determined whether or not the value exceeds the allocated bandwidth (622) of the shared bandwidth. When it is determined that it does not exceed the allocated bandwidth (622) of the shared bandwidth, the minimum bandwidth ensuring class distribution setting unit 753a acquires the channel bandwidth (614) acquired as the used bandwidth (623) of the total bandwidth of the bandwidth information table 62a shown in FIG. ) Is greater than the total bandwidth allocation bandwidth (622) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “maximum allocation bandwidth”).

  When it is determined that the maximum allocated bandwidth is not exceeded, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753a acquires the shared bandwidth usage bandwidth (623) and the total bandwidth usage bandwidth (623) of the bandwidth information table 62a shown in FIG. The obtained channel band (614) is added, and the acquired channel band (614) is subtracted from the remaining band (624) of the shared band. When it is determined that the allocated bandwidth exceeds the allocated bandwidth (621) or when it is determined that the shared bandwidth exceeds the maximum allocated bandwidth, the MLD request signal is discarded without performing the distribution setting process for the channel.

<< Operation of Channel Distribution Setting Process and Channel Distribution Stop Process of Multicast Router According to Second Embodiment >>
FIG. 10 is a flowchart of channel distribution setting processing and channel distribution stop processing of the multicast router 4 according to the second embodiment. Hereinafter, operations of the channel distribution setting process and the channel distribution stop process of the multicast router 4a will be described with reference to FIG. In the description, only points different from the first embodiment will be described, and the same operation will be denoted by the same step number and description thereof will be omitted.

  After step S003, the band reservation class distribution setting unit 751a adds the channel band of the channel information table 61 of the channel for which the distribution setting request has been made to the use band (623) (total use band) of the total band of the band information table 62a. (614) It is determined whether or not the value obtained by adding (requested bandwidth) exceeds the allocated bandwidth (622) (maximum allocated bandwidth) of the total bandwidth of the bandwidth information table 62a (step S101).

  When the maximum allocated bandwidth is not exceeded (step S101 “yes”), the bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751a changes the bandwidth usage bandwidth (623) of the corresponding carrier (612) in the bandwidth information table 62a. The distribution setting process is performed by instructing the multicast transfer unit 74 to start the transfer of the corresponding channel (step S009).

  When the maximum allocated bandwidth is exceeded (step S101 “no”), the bandwidth reservation class delivery setting unit 751a has the largest delivery number (632) among the channels delivered from the channel delivery number table 63 shown in FIG. A small multicast identifier (631) having the smallest number of distributions is acquired. Next, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution stop unit 754 performs distribution stop processing for the corresponding channel (QoS2 flow) using the acquired multicast identifier 631 as a key (step S102). Next, the bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 751a performs the channel distribution setting process (step S009) in the same manner as when the maximum allocated bandwidth is not exceeded (step S101 “yes”).

  After step S007, the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753a uses the channel of the channel information table 61 of the channel for which a distribution setting request has been made in the total bandwidth used band (623) (total bandwidth used) of the band information table 62a. It is determined whether or not the value obtained by adding the bandwidth (614) (requested bandwidth) exceeds the allocated bandwidth (622) (maximum allocated bandwidth) of the total bandwidth of the bandwidth information table 62a (step S103).

  When the maximum allocated bandwidth is not exceeded (step S103 “yes”), the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753a changes the shared bandwidth use bandwidth (623) and the like of the bandwidth information table 62a and corresponds to the multicast transfer unit 74. The distribution setting process is performed by instructing the start of the transfer of the channel to be performed (step S009).

  If the maximum allocated bandwidth is exceeded (step S103 “no”), the process proceeds to step S011. The minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit 753a discards the MLD request signal without performing the distribution setting process for the corresponding channel (step S011).

  As described above, the multicast relay device and the multicast relay method according to the second embodiment monitor the remaining bandwidth whose transfer quality class is the bandwidth reservation class, and allocate the remaining bandwidth that is not used for a predetermined time to the allocated bandwidth of the shared bandwidth. Can be added (oversub). Therefore, according to the multicast relay apparatus and the multicast relay method according to the second embodiment, more efficient bandwidth control can be performed as compared with the apparatus and method according to the first embodiment.

1, 1a Multicast relay system 2 Distribution server 3 User terminal 4, 4a Multicast router (multicast relay device)
5 Concentrator 6 Storage Unit 61 Channel Information Table (First Storage Unit)
62, 62a Band information table (second storage unit)
63 Channel distribution number table (third storage unit)
7 Control unit 71 Communication control unit 72 Transfer quality class determination unit 73 Signal type determination unit 74 Multicast transfer unit 75, 75a Acceptance control unit 751, 751a Band reservation class distribution setting unit 752 Band reservation class distribution stop unit 753, 753a Minimum band reservation Class distribution setting unit 754 Minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution stop unit 755 Band non-reserved class distribution setting unit 756 Band non-reserved class distribution stop unit 8 Communication unit 81 Upstream interface 82 Downstream interface 9 IP network

Claims (4)

A multicast relay device that relays, via an interface, a network in which content is distributed as a channel from a plurality of operators by IP multicast broadcasting, and the distribution request for the channel is transferred,
Channel identification information that is information for identifying the channel, carrier information that identifies a carrier that is a distribution source of the channel, and bandwidth reservation that secures a band used for relaying the channel in the network and guarantees the relay of the channel Identify whether it is a class channel or a channel of the lowest bandwidth class that guarantees the relay of a predetermined number of channels, but guarantees the relay of a predetermined number of channels, but does not guarantee the relay of more channels. A first storage unit that stores a transfer quality class and a channel bandwidth that is a bandwidth of the network required for relaying the channel;
Bandwidth allocation class allocated bandwidth, bandwidth allocation class allocated bandwidth, which is a bandwidth required when relaying all channels of the bandwidth allocation class that may be relayed to the network for each carrier A bandwidth used for the bandwidth reservation class that is used, a bandwidth allocated for the minimum bandwidth reservation class that is a bandwidth set in advance to relay a predetermined number of channels of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, There was a request to set distribution of the channel for the minimum bandwidth reservation class exceeding the bandwidth used for the minimum bandwidth reservation class, which is the bandwidth used among the allocated bandwidths of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, and the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class The shared allocated bandwidth, which is the bandwidth used by the operator for relaying the excess channel of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, and A second storage unit the shared bandwidth in use used within the shared allocated bandwidth, is stored in the interface unit,
When the distribution setting request for the channel is received, the first storage unit is searched using the channel identification information set in the distribution setting request as a key, and the transfer quality class corresponding to the channel identification information is determined. A transfer quality class determination unit that acquires and determines a transfer quality class of the channel;
When the transfer quality class determination unit determines that the transfer quality class of the channel is the bandwidth reservation class, the provider information of the channel is acquired from the first storage unit, and the second storage The channel band of the channel stored in the first storage unit is added to the use band of the band reservation class corresponding to the acquired provider information stored in the unit, and the channel is set to the multicast group address. Bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit for setting distribution to relay to,
When the transfer quality class determination unit determines that the transfer quality class of the channel is the minimum bandwidth reservation class, the carrier quality information of the channel is acquired from the first storage unit, and the second A value obtained by adding the channel band of the channel stored in the first storage unit to the use band of the minimum bandwidth reservation class corresponding to the acquired provider information stored in the storage unit is the provider information. It is determined whether or not the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class corresponding to the above is exceeded, and if the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class is not exceeded, the channel bandwidth of the channel is added to the used bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class In addition, when the distribution setting is made so that the channel is relayed to the multicast group address and the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class is exceeded. It is determined whether or not a value obtained by adding the channel band of the channel to the shared use band stored in the second storage unit exceeds the shared allocated band, and when the shared allocated band does not exceed the shared allocated band, A minimum bandwidth ensuring class distribution setting unit that adds the channel band to the shared use band, sets the distribution so that the channel is relayed to the multicast group address, and does not set the channel when the shared allocated band is exceeded. When,
A multicast relay device comprising: The multicast relay device
A third storage unit that stores the number of distributions under the interface relaying the channel for each channel of the minimum bandwidth reservation class;
The second storage unit includes a bandwidth allocation class allocation bandwidth of each operator, a bandwidth allocation bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth allocation class, a total allocation bandwidth that is a sum of the shared allocation bandwidths, and a bandwidth allocation class of each operator. Used bandwidth, total bandwidth used for the minimum bandwidth reservation class, and total bandwidth used for the shared bandwidth usage, and unused bandwidth that has not been used for a predetermined time among the bandwidth allocation bandwidth allocated bandwidths are added to the shared bandwidth allocation. The shared allocated bandwidth after the over-sub is further stored,
The bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit, when the transfer quality class determination unit determines that the transfer quality class of the channel is the bandwidth reservation class, from the first storage unit the carrier information of the channel Whether or not a value obtained by adding the channel band of the channel stored in the first storage unit to the total use band stored in the second storage unit exceeds the total allocated bandwidth. And when the total allocated bandwidth is not exceeded, the use bandwidth of the bandwidth reservation class corresponding to the acquired provider information stored in the second storage unit is stored in the first storage unit The channel band of the channel is added, and the distribution setting is performed so that the channel is relayed to the multicast group address. The stop relay from a distribution having a small number channels in the order of the channels of being the distribution stored in the storage unit, and delivery settings using the bandwidth of the channel was discontinued the relay,
When the minimum bandwidth reservation class distribution setting unit exceeds the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, a value obtained by adding the channel bandwidth of the channel to the shared use bandwidth stored in the second storage is It is determined whether or not the rear shared allocated bandwidth is exceeded. When the over-sub shared shared allocated bandwidth is not exceeded, the total used bandwidth stored in the second storage is further stored in the first storage. A value obtained by adding the channel bandwidths of the channels is determined to exceed the total allocated bandwidth, and if the total allocated bandwidth is not exceeded, the channel bandwidth of the channel is added to the shared use bandwidth Is set so as to relay to the multicast group address, and when the shared allocated bandwidth after the over-sub is exceeded and the When more than a total allocated bandwidth does not distribute sets the channel,
The multicast relay device according to claim 1. A multicast relay method used for a multicast relay device that relays content via a network to a network in which content is distributed as a channel from a plurality of operators by IP multicast broadcast, and the distribution request for the channel is transferred,
The multicast relay device
Channel identification information that is information for identifying the channel, carrier information that identifies a carrier that is a distribution source of the channel, and bandwidth reservation that secures a band used for relaying the channel in the network and guarantees the relay of the channel Identify whether it is a class channel or a channel of the lowest bandwidth class that guarantees the relay of a predetermined number of channels, but guarantees the relay of a predetermined number of channels, but does not guarantee the relay of more channels. A first storage unit that stores a transfer quality class, a channel band that is a band of the network required for relaying the channel, and the band securing class that may be relayed to the network for each provider Allocated bandwidth of the bandwidth reservation class, which is a bandwidth required when relaying all channels of Of the allocated bandwidth of the class, the used bandwidth of the reserved bandwidth class, the used bandwidth of the reserved bandwidth class, and the minimum reserved bandwidth class which is a preset bandwidth for relaying a predetermined number of channels of the reserved bandwidth reserved class. Distribution setting of the channel of the minimum bandwidth reservation class exceeding the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, which is the used bandwidth among the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class When requested, a shared allocated band that is a band that is used by the operator for relaying the excess channel of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, a shared used band that is used in the shared allocated band, A second storage unit that is stored in units of the interface,
When the distribution setting request for the channel is received, the first storage unit is searched using the channel identification information set in the distribution setting request as a key, and the transfer quality class corresponding to the channel identification information is determined. Obtain the transfer quality class of the channel,
When it is determined that the transfer quality class of the channel is the bandwidth reservation class, the provider information of the channel is acquired from the first storage unit, and the acquired information stored in the second storage unit is acquired. Add the channel bandwidth of the channel stored in the first storage unit to the used bandwidth of the bandwidth reservation class corresponding to the provider information, and set the distribution so that the channel is relayed to the multicast group address And
When it is determined that the transfer quality class of the channel is the minimum bandwidth securing class, the provider information of the channel is acquired from the first storage unit, and the acquisition is stored in the second storage unit The value obtained by adding the channel bandwidth of the channel stored in the first storage unit to the use bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class corresponding to the provider information is the minimum bandwidth reservation class corresponding to the provider information. If the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class is not exceeded, the channel bandwidth of the channel is added to the used bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth reservation class, and the channel is added to the multicast group. When the distribution is set to relay to the address and the allocated bandwidth of the minimum bandwidth securing class is exceeded, it is stored in the second storage unit. It is determined whether or not a value obtained by adding the channel band of the channel to the shared use band exceeds the shared allocated band, and if not exceeding the shared allocated band, the channel band of the channel is added to the shared used band And setting the distribution so that the channel is relayed to the multicast group address, and does not set the channel distribution when exceeding the shared allocated bandwidth,
A multicast relay method characterized by the above.   A program for causing the multicast relay apparatus to execute the multicast relay method according to claim 3.

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