Layer 2 Frame Ordering via Sequence Number Disambiguation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Replication networks face challenges in managing out-of-order frame sequences and sequence number wraparound issues, leading to frame ambiguity and reordering problems, which can cause packet loss and congestion, especially in high-speed real-time applications.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a link redundancy entity (LRE) within network devices to detect and remediate out-of-order frame sequences by using a sequence number disambiguation function, which includes a logic circuit, buffer, timer, and interrupt circuit to manage frame ordering and prevent wraparound, and extending frames with a redundancy control trailer to include sequence numbers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If replication networks use redundant data transmission paths to ensure high reliability, then network reliability is improved, but frame ordering and sequence number management become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sequence number disambiguation function as an intermediary mechanism between the redundant transmission paths and the frame processing logic. This function uses sequence numbers as mediators to track and manage frame ordering across multiple paths, resolving the complexity of maintaining order in redundant networks without requiring complex per-path state management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter space by introducing sequence numbers as a new tracking dimension. Instead of managing frame order through complex temporal and spatial coordination across multiple paths, the system uses sequence number parameters to identify and reorder frames, simplifying the management of redundancy while maintaining reliability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If network devices buffer frames to maintain sequence order, then frame ordering is improved, but packet loss increases due to buffering delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing sequence number tracking and disambiguation logic before frame processing occurs. The sequence number disambiguation function is prepared in advance to immediately identify and handle out-of-order frames when they arrive, reducing the need for extensive buffering and minimizing packet loss while maintaining sequence stability.
3Measurement precision
If sequence numbers are used to track frame order, then frame identification is improved, but wraparound issues cause frame ambiguity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through the sequence number disambiguation function that continuously monitors sequence number transitions and detects wraparound conditions. When wraparound is detected, the system receives feedback about the ambiguous state and takes corrective action to resolve the frame ambiguity, maintaining precise frame identification even under wraparound conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are systems, apparatuses, methods, and computer-readable media for layer 2 out-of-order frame detection in replication networks. A method includes: receiving a first frame at a network device from a redundancy device and including a first sequence number, wherein the network device is connected to the redundancy device via a first link and a second link for transmitting duplicate frames; storing the first sequence number based on the first frame corresponding to an expected order of frames; receiving a second frame at the network device from the redundancy device including a second sequence number; determining that the second frame does not correspond to the expected order of frames based on the second sequence number and the first sequence number; and pausing transmission of frames to a destination network device in response to determining the second frame does not correspond to the expected order of frames.