Ethernet Link Management via Dynamic Rate Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ethernet links often operate at fixed data rates, which can be energy inefficient as they do not adapt to changing traffic demands, and existing auto-negotiation methods only select a single common data rate for all links on a cable, failing to optimize energy usage across multiple connections.
Innovation Solution
A method for managing multiple Ethernet links on a single cable by identifying the capabilities of connected devices, determining the number of links needed, negotiating parameters for data rate and channel allocation, and dynamically powering channels on or off in real-time based on traffic demands and policies, allowing for flexible data rate adjustment and energy-efficient communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If Ethernet links operate at fixed high data rates, then network performance is maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic data rate adjustment by enabling Ethernet links to transition between different operating speeds (10Mbps, 100Mbps, 1Gbps, 10Gbps) based on real-time traffic demands. The system continuously monitors link utilization and automatically negotiates rate changes, transforming the static fixed-rate operation into a dynamic adaptive system that matches performance to actual needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating parameters of Ethernet links by modifying data rate settings according to traffic conditions. The system alters key parameters including transmission speed, channel allocation, and power states, enabling the network to operate at optimal points between performance and energy efficiency by adjusting these parameters in response to measured traffic demands.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single common data rate is selected for all links using existing auto-negotiation, then compatibility is ensured, but energy optimization across multiple connections is failed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network management approach by treating each Ethernet link independently rather than applying a uniform data rate to all links. The system divides the cable into multiple manageable link segments, allowing each to negotiate and operate at its own optimal data rate based on individual traffic demands, while still maintaining overall system compatibility through standardized negotiation protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies local quality optimization by allowing different data rates and power states for different links within the same cable infrastructure. Each link can be independently optimized for its specific traffic requirements, with some links operating at high speeds while others run at lower speeds or in low-power states, creating a heterogeneous but compatible multi-rate network.
3Use of energy by moving object
If multiple Ethernet links are managed independently, then each link can be optimized, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the management of multiple Ethernet links into a unified system that handles rate negotiation and power management collectively. The switching device implements integrated control logic that simultaneously manages multiple links, combining what would otherwise be separate independent management functions into a single coordinated system that reduces overall complexity while maintaining per-link optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables self-service operation through automated rate negotiation and dynamic power management. The system monitors its own traffic conditions and automatically adjusts data rates and power states without requiring external intervention or complex manual configuration, allowing the network to self-optimize while reducing the burden of system management.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for managing a number of Ethernet links includes identifying a number of Ethernet links to utilize a number of channels of a cable based on a number of capabilities and a number of policies of a number of media access controllers (MACs) and a number of physical layer entities (PHYs), determining a number of Ethernet link types to be configured for the cable based on the capabilities and policies of the MACs and PHYs, negotiating a number of parameters to allow multi-channel ports of a number of nodes connected to the cable to establish communications through the Ethernet links based on the determined Ethernet link types and the utilized channels, and managing the cable configuration describing the MACs to be supported by the channels within the cable based on the policies.