Configurable Transceiver for Packet Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network switch devices lack the ability to efficiently process and manage packets for network monitoring and security tools, as they often require complex configurations and cannot perform advanced packet processing functions without redesigning the circuitry.
Innovation Solution
A transceiver with a configurable processor is integrated into network switch devices, enabling packet filtering, slicing, time stamping, analysis, and other processing functions, allowing for detachable coupling to both optical and electrical interfaces, and supporting multiple packet handling configurations without altering the existing circuitry layout.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network switch devices use fixed circuitry for packet processing, then the device structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the device cannot perform advanced packet processing functions and lacks adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed circuitry with a configurable processor that can be dynamically reprogrammed to perform different packet processing functions. The processor can be configured through software or firmware to adapt to various network monitoring and security requirements, enabling the device to change its functionality without physical hardware modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by using a configurable processor whose behavior can be modified through configuration parameters, programming, or firmware updates. This allows the same hardware platform to perform multiple packet processing functions (filtering, slicing, time-stamping, analysis) by changing operational parameters rather than redesigning the circuitry.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network switch devices are redesigned to add packet processing functions, then advanced functions are achieved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single configurable processor platform that can perform multiple packet processing functions. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need to manufacture different hardware versions for different functions, as one universal processor can be programmed to handle filtering, slicing, time-stamping, analysis, and other packet processing tasks through software configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by implementing packet processing functions through software or firmware copies rather than physical hardware copies. Instead of manufacturing separate circuitry for each function, the same processor can load different software implementations of packet processing functions, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining functional diversity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If network switch devices use configurable processors, then adaptability and packet processing capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the configurable processor to be programmed and configured through automated software tools and interfaces. The system can self-configure packet processing functions through programmatic control, reducing the need for manual circuitry redesign and allowing operators to adjust functionality through software configuration rather than physical modifications.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances network switch devices' ability to manage and process packets for monitoring and security tools, providing flexible packet handling and processing capabilities without the need for redesigning the circuitry, thus improving network monitoring and security functionalities.
Implementation Method 1
an optical-electrical conversion unit coupled to the optical interface, the optical-electrical conversion unit located in the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A transceiver includes a housing, an optical interface for detachably coupling to an optical transmission device, an optical-electrical conversion unit coupled to the optical interface, the optical-electrical conversion unit located in the housing, a programmable logic device communicatively coupled to the optical-electrical conversion unit, and an electrical interface communicatively coupled to the programmable logic device, wherein the electrical interface is configured for detachably coupling to an electrical transmission device. In some embodiments, the programmable logic device may be configured to perform packet filtering, packet slicing, time stamping, packet analysis, port labeling, packet masking, packet modification, packet stripping, packet de-duplication, or a combination thereof.