Ethernet Switch Port Mirroring for Vehicle Network Data Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing number of electronic devices in vehicle networks leads to data processing inefficiencies in Ethernet-based vehicle networks, as existing networks like CAN and FlexRay struggle to support higher transmission rates required by advanced systems such as telematics and infotainment systems, and implementing MOST-based networks is costly.

Innovation Solution

An operation method for a communication node in an Ethernet-based vehicle network that utilizes port mirroring to efficiently process data by determining and configuring mirroring functions based on function codes, target addresses, and VLAN identifiers, allowing data to be mirrored to specific nodes, thereby reducing processing time and improving system efficiency without the need for a separate gateway.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the number of electronic devices in the vehicle network is increased, then the functionality and system expandability are improved, but the data processing time and system complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem expandabilityVSAvoiddata processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the data processing function by introducing a dedicated mirroring function that separates data replication from data processing. The switch mirrors data to multiple communication nodes simultaneously, allowing parallel processing across multiple nodes rather than sequential processing through a single gateway, thereby reducing overall data processing time while supporting increased system expandability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring port mirroring relationships and VLAN assignments before data transmission occurs. The switch is pre-programmed with mirroring rules that automatically direct data to appropriate nodes based on predefined criteria, eliminating the need for real-time decision-making and reducing data processing delays as the network expands

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If a separate gateway is added to process data, then data processing capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the Ethernet switch to perform both its traditional data forwarding function and an additional mirroring function. The switch simultaneously routes data to destination nodes while replicating data to specified mirror nodes, eliminating the need for a separate gateway device and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining enhanced data processing capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the gateway's data processing function into the existing switch by integrating the mirroring capability directly into the switch's operation. This consolidation combines multiple functions (data forwarding, data replication, and node management) into a single device, reducing the number of components needed and simplifying the overall system architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If port mirroring is configured for all functions, then data processing efficiency is improved, but device complexity and configuration difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing efficiencyVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by configuring port mirroring selectively for specific functions, communication nodes, and data types rather than applying it universally. The system assigns different mirroring priorities and configurations to different VLANs and ports based on their specific requirements, optimizing data processing efficiency for critical functions while avoiding unnecessary complexity for less demanding applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS10764210B2Operation method of communication node for mirroring in vehicle network
Publication Date: 2020.09.01 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US10764210B2 patent drawing
  • US10764210B2 patent drawing
  • US10764210B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An operation method of a first communication node among a plurality of communication nodes included in an Ethernet-based vehicle network includes: receiving a first message indicating an operation of a first function of a vehicle from a second communication node among the plurality of communication nodes; determining a third communication node performing a second function corresponding to the first function among the plurality of communication nodes; determining at least one communication node providing data related to the second function among the plurality of communication nodes; and configuring port mirroring for the first function such that a second message received from the at least one communication node is mirrored to the third communication node.