Ethernet Packet Multiplexing for Automotive Low-Latency Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automotive control networks require high-performance, low-latency connections with minimal cabling to reduce weight and maximize reliability, while existing Ethernet technologies face challenges with packet collision and overheads in mission-critical applications.
Innovation Solution
A network device with dual Ethernet ports and a packet multiplexer/demultiplexer module that extracts and inserts packet data in a shared media network, enabling multiplexed packet transmission to reduce latency and minimize cabling, using a packet multiplexing scheme that supports low to medium data rates and operates in automotive vehicle networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional Ethernet technologies are used in automotive networks, then standard communication protocols are supported, but packet collision and latency issues occur in mission-critical applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the Ethernet packet structure into distinct functional sections: a header section containing multiplexing information and a payload section containing actual data. This segmentation allows the network to handle control information and data separately, enabling deterministic communication for mission-critical applications while maintaining standard Ethernet compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a gateway node as an intermediary that performs multiplexing and demultiplexing operations. This gateway acts as a mediator between standard Ethernet devices and the deterministic communication requirements, converting traditional Ethernet packets into a format suitable for low-latency automotive networks without requiring changes to existing Ethernet hardware.
2Reliability
If multiple separate cabling systems are used for different control functions, then functional redundancy is achieved, but wiring harness weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple control functions and data streams into a single shared Ethernet medium. By using packet multiplexing to combine different control signals, sensor data, and actuator commands into unified Ethernet packets, the system reduces the number of separate cable bundles needed while maintaining functional redundancy through protocol-level error checking and retransmission mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal Ethernet-based communication infrastructure that can handle multiple control functions simultaneously. The shared medium supports diverse automotive control applications including powertrain, chassis, body control, and infotainment systems through a single cabling system, making the wiring harness multi-functional and significantly reducing overall weight.
3Speed
If Ethernet packet overhead is reduced for low-latency communication, then transmission speed increases, but packet collision probability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-defining deterministic time slots and priority levels for different types of traffic before data transmission begins. The gateway node allocates specific time windows for high-priority mission-critical communications, ensuring that critical packets are transmitted without collision before lower-priority traffic attempts to access the medium. This pre-arranged structure eliminates the need for traditional Ethernet collision detection and retransmission protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
Multiplexed packet local area networking using an Ethernet physical layer device. In one embodiment, a network device having dual port Ethernet physical layer devices can be configured to receive a packet on a first Ethernet port. The network device can extract first packet data that is destined for the network device from the data section of the packet and insert second packet data that is destined for the gateway node into the packet to produce a modified packet. The modified packet is then transmitted by the network device over a second Ethernet port.