Asymmetric Ethernet Network Data Transfer System

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Solution Overview

Problem

The symmetry feature of conventional Ethernet networks leads to congestion and inefficient bandwidth utilization due to equal bandwidth allocation for uploading and downloading, despite differing actual data transfer rates.

Innovation Solution

An asymmetric Ethernet network data transfer system that allows for real-time switching between one-way and two-way network cable transfer modes using a network interface card with a negotiating, transforming, detecting, and deciding/switching module, enabling asymmetric data transfer by modifying the Link_Control_[HCD] program code and supporting two-way data transfer over network cables like copper twisted pairs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If symmetric bandwidth allocation is used in Ethernet networks, then simplicity and compatibility are maintained, but bandwidth utilization efficiency deteriorates due to congestion in high-demand directions and unused capacity in low-demand directions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebandwidth utilization efficiencyVSAvoidnetwork interface card complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The network interface card implements dynamic bandwidth allocation by switching between symmetric and asymmetric transfer modes based on real-time network conditions. The deciding module monitors traffic patterns and dynamically adjusts the transfer mode, allowing the system to adapt bandwidth allocation to actual needs rather than maintaining a fixed symmetric configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the operational parameters of the network interface card by introducing asymmetric transfer mode where upload and download bandwidths can differ. By modifying the Link_Control_[HCD] program code and adding new configuration parameters, the system enables different bandwidth allocations for different directions while maintaining compatibility with existing Ethernet standards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If asymmetric bandwidth allocation is implemented, then bandwidth utilization efficiency improves, but device complexity increases due to additional modules and mode switching mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer efficiencyVSAvoidnetwork interface card structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The network interface card is designed with multi-functionality to handle both symmetric and asymmetric transfer modes within a single device. The negotiating module can detect and adapt to different network conditions, allowing the same hardware to serve multiple purposes without requiring separate dedicated interfaces for different bandwidth allocation scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The network interface card performs self-configuration by automatically negotiating the transfer mode with the target network apparatus. The detecting and deciding modules monitor network conditions and autonomously select the appropriate transfer mode without requiring manual intervention, reducing the operational complexity despite the enhanced functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If mode switching between one-way and two-way transfer is implemented, then flexibility and bandwidth optimization improve, but detection and control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransfer mode flexibilityVSAvoidnetwork condition detection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The network interface card implements a feedback mechanism where the detecting module continuously monitors network traffic conditions and feeds this information to the deciding module. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts the transfer mode, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes bandwidth allocation based on actual network conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The negotiating module performs preliminary negotiation with the target network apparatus to determine the appropriate transfer mode before actual data transfer begins. This preliminary action allows the system to pre-configure the bandwidth allocation based on expected traffic patterns, avoiding the need for complex real-time adjustments during active transfer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7403519B2Asymmetric ethernet network data transfer system and method
Publication Date: 2008.07.22 VIA TECH INC
  • US7403519B2 patent drawing
  • US7403519B2 patent drawing
  • US7403519B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides an asymmetric Ethernet network data transfer system and method. The present invention utilizes a network interface card being capable of an automatic transfer mode switch to form an asymmetric network data transfer system, and through which to modify the symmetry feature of the Ethernet and increase the transfer bandwidth.