IP Header Extension Using an Intermediate Packet Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The limited space in conventional network protocol headers, such as IPv4, restricts the flexibility to include additional data, especially in future applications where network traffic demands exceed the available space.
Innovation Solution
Introducing an intermediate layer between the upper and lower layers of a data packet, utilizing an intermediate layer protocol number to extend the header by inserting intermediate packets, allowing for flexible expansion of the header to accommodate additional data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the header space is increased to accommodate additional data, then the capacity and flexibility of data transmission are improved, but the compatibility with existing protocols deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an intermediate layer nested between the lower layer header and the upper layer protocol. This intermediate layer acts as a container that can hold additional data fields without disrupting the external structure of the original header, allowing existing protocols to remain compatible while expanding functional capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the protocol structure into distinct layers: lower layer, intermediate layer, and upper layer. By dividing the data packet structure this way, additional data can be inserted in the intermediate layer without modifying the fixed structures of the lower and upper layers, thus maintaining compatibility while increasing capacity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the header structure is modified to include more fields, then the flexibility for future applications is improved, but the complexity of the protocol increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of expanding the header horizontally by adding more fields to the existing structure, the patent adds a new dimensional layer (the intermediate layer) between the lower and upper layers. This vertical expansion provides flexibility without complicating the horizontal structure of existing protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate layer serves as an intermediary between the lower layer header and the upper layer protocol. It mediates between the need for additional data fields and the requirement to maintain simple, compatible header structures by absorbing the complexity within itself rather than propagating it to existing layers.
Data Source
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AI summary
A computer-implemented method for extending a header (120), in particular an Internet Protocol (IP) header, is described, comprising: i) providing a data packet (100) comprising: an upper layer (110) and a lower layer (119), wherein the lower layer (119) comprises the header (120), and wherein the header (120) comprises a next-protocol number field (121) in which the protocol number of the next protocol to be executed is entered; and ii) inserting at least one intermediate packet (150) into an intermediate layer (140) between the upper layer (110) and the header (120) by entering the intermediate-layer protocol number (125, 0xFF) into the next-protocol number field (121).