Ethernet Interface Module Reducing Complexity via Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ethernet devices require a significant 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 eliminates the need for packet memory and protocol evaluation software, utilizing PHY and MAC blocks with evaluation apparatus to determine frame addressing and forwarding, allowing for reduced component requirements and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional Ethernet components (packet memory, protocol evaluation software, switching apparatus) are included, then Ethernet functionality and reliability are ensured, 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 individual Ethernet interface module. These functions are eliminated at the device level and replaced with centralized network infrastructure capabilities, significantly reducing the component count and complexity of each Ethernet node while maintaining overall system functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal Ethernet interface design where a single standardized interface module can operate in multiple network configurations (daisy-chain, star, mesh) without requiring device-specific components. The interface handles various Ethernet protocols and topologies through standardized PHY and MAC blocks, eliminating the need for protocol evaluation software and adaptive switching apparatus at each device
2Adaptability or versatility
If complete Ethernet protocol stack (PHY, MAC, packet memory, protocol software, switching apparatus) is implemented, then protocol evaluation and packet handling capabilities are ensured, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts protocol evaluation and packet memory functions from the individual device and relocates them to centralized network infrastructure. This extraction eliminates expensive components from each device while concentrating these capabilities in cost-effective centralized locations, dramatically reducing per-unit manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses standardized, replicated PHY and MAC blocks that can be mass-produced through standard semiconductor manufacturing processes. By copying proven, simplified interface designs across multiple devices rather than manufacturing custom protocol evaluation systems for each device, the patent achieves economies of scale that reduce manufacturing cost
3Ease of operation
If per-device switching resources and protocol software are included, then network management and packet routing capabilities are ensured, but device complexity and software requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts packet routing and network management functions from individual devices and consolidates them in centralized network infrastructure. This extraction eliminates the need for complex protocol evaluation software and switching apparatus at each device, reducing software requirements and complexity while maintaining routing capabilities through standardized interface operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces standardized PHY and MAC blocks as intermediary components that handle protocol translation and packet formatting according to IEEE standards. These intermediaries enable simple devices to participate in complex networks without requiring embedded protocol evaluation software, as the standardized interfaces automatically handle protocol requirements
Data Source
AI summary
An Ethernet interface module comprises a duplex port operable to transfer frames between said Ethernet network and a device and a path coupling a receive portion of the duplex port to a transmit portion of said first full duplex port. A queue is disposed in said first path. Evaluation apparatus is coupled to the queue and determines whether a received frame is addressed to said Ethernet interface module and whether a frame type field contains a frame type. The Ethernet interface module is operable in a first mode such that every said received frame is echoed back out the full duplex port; and is operable in a second mode such that each received frame that meets predetermined evaluation criteria is echoed back out the duplex port and those received frames that do not meet the predetermined evaluation criteria are discarded.