AVB ECU Bandwidth Reservation Dynamics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current communication systems using Audio Video Bridging (AVB) technology face challenges in managing bandwidth demand dynamically, particularly in scenarios where high-priority audio and video data need to be transmitted efficiently without interruption, especially when lower-priority data communications surge, leading to potential data rate slowdowns.

Innovation Solution

A communication system incorporating multiple electronic control units (ECUs) with both AVB and secondary protocol interfaces, allowing for dynamic bandwidth management by reserving channels based on traffic volume and adjusting them proactively or reactively using AVB and secondary protocols, such as CAN, to ensure uninterrupted high-priority data delivery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If bandwidth is reserved for high-priority audio-video data using AVB protocol, then data transmission reliability is improved, but network flexibility and adaptability to changing traffic demands deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission reliabilityVSAvoidbandwidth adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic bandwidth reservation by allowing the AVB protocol to adjust reserved channel allocations in real-time based on actual traffic demands. The system transitions from static to dynamic bandwidth management, where reservation parameters are continuously optimized according to changing network conditions and traffic patterns, resolving the contradiction between reliable guaranteed transmission and adaptive flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes bandwidth reservation parameters dynamically based on traffic volume and priority requirements. By adjusting reservation parameters (such as reserved bandwidth allocation, channel assignments) in response to real-time network conditions, the system maintains reliable high-priority transmission while adapting to varying traffic demands, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple protocols are integrated for bandwidth management, then system adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotocol compatibilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling ECUs and network devices to operate with both AVB and non-AVB protocols simultaneously. The system is designed to handle multiple protocol types (AVB, CAN, LIN, Ethernet) within a unified architecture, allowing seamless interoperability and protocol selection based on traffic requirements, thus improving adaptability while managing complexity through standardized multi-protocol support.

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

3Productivity

If bandwidth reservations are adjusted dynamically, then throughput efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork throughputVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors network traffic conditions, utilization patterns, and QoS requirements. Based on this feedback, the AVB protocol automatically adjusts bandwidth reservation parameters to optimize throughput. This closed-loop control approach improves network productivity while managing control complexity through automated, rule-based adjustments rather than manual configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by allowing network devices and ECUs to autonomously manage their own bandwidth reservations based on predefined policies and real-time conditions. Each ECU can self-adjust its bandwidth allocations and reservation parameters without requiring complex centralized control, thus improving throughput efficiency while reducing overall system control complexity through distributed autonomous decision-making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10361967B2Communication system using audio video bridging
Publication Date: 2019.07.23 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US10361967B2 patent drawing
  • US10361967B2 patent drawing
  • US10361967B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A communication system and methods of using the system are described. The communication system includes: a plurality of electronic control units (ECUs) operably configured for a first protocol and a second protocol; one or more switches; a first network of connections; and a second network of connections. The first protocol may be an audio video bridging (AVB) protocol. And the ECUs may include: a first protocol interface that includes one or more AVB ports; a second protocol interface; memory storing traffic shaping instructions; and a processor configured to carry out the traffic shaping instructions. The one or more switches may have a plurality of AVB ports. The first network of connections may interconnect the ports of the plurality of ECUs and the ports of the one or more switches. And the second network of connections may interconnect the second protocol interfaces of at least some of the plurality of ECUs.