Ethernet Interface Module Simplification via Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ethernet devices require a substantial amount of hardware and software components, making them costly and complex, which is prohibitive for certain applications.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost Ethernet interface module that utilizes PHY and MAC blocks without requiring packet memory or protocol evaluation software, featuring a configuration with full duplex ports, queues, and evaluation apparatus to determine frame addressing and commands, allowing for reduced component usage and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a typical Ethernet device includes PHY, MAC, packet memory, protocol evaluation software, and switching apparatus, then Ethernet communication functionality is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes packet memory, protocol evaluation software, and per-device switching resources from the Ethernet interface module. These functions are relocated to higher-level network devices such as switches or routers, allowing the Ethernet interface module to operate with minimal components while maintaining full Ethernet communication capability through centralized processing in the network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal Ethernet interface module that can operate in multiple modes (half-duplex and full-duplex) without requiring dedicated hardware for each mode. The module uses a single PHY and MAC configuration that adapts to different operational requirements, eliminating the need for separate switching apparatus and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Reliability
If packet memory and protocol evaluation software are included in the Ethernet interface module, then complete protocol processing is achieved, but hardware cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts protocol evaluation software and packet memory from the Ethernet interface module, relocating these resources to centralized network devices. This extraction eliminates the need for expensive microprocessors and large memory buffers in each interface module, significantly reducing hardware cost while protocol processing capability is maintained through centralized software running on network infrastructure devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If per-device switching resources are included, then individual device switching is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges per-device switching resources into a centralized switching apparatus located in the network infrastructure. Multiple Ethernet interface modules share common switching resources through the network backbone, eliminating the need for each device to have its own switching hardware. This consolidation maintains switching capability while dramatically reducing device complexity and cost for individual Ethernet interface modules.
Data Source
AI summary
An Ethernet interface module comprises a first full duplex port, a second duplex port, a first path coupling the first duplex port and the second full duplex port, a second path coupling the second full duplex port and the first full duplex port, a first queue disposed in the first path, a second queue disposed in the second path, a third path comprising at least a portion of the first queue coupling the receive and transmit portions of the first port, a fourth path comprising at least a portion of the second queue coupling the receive and transmit portions of the second port, execution apparatus operable responsive to a command to alter the state of said Ethernet interface module, or the contents of said received frame to produce a return frame comprising fields of a received frame that are modified, or both.