Link Aggregation Module for Multi-Interface Network Communication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information handling systems primarily rely on single network interfaces for communication, which limits bandwidth and reliability, especially in environments with wireless congestion and Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) restrictions, making indirect network interfaces unreliable for applications requiring consistent service.
Innovation Solution
A client information handling system uses link aggregation to simultaneously communicate through multiple network interfaces by manipulating network packets at the network layer, managing network packet assignment and optimizing communication medium states to ensure efficient distribution across available interfaces, including wired and wireless networks, while adhering to SAR limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single network interface is used for communication, then device complexity is reduced, but bandwidth and reliability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple network interfaces (wired Ethernet and wireless Wi-Fi) into a unified communication system. The link aggregation module merges these separate interfaces to work together as a single logical network connection, enabling applications to utilize both interfaces simultaneously for increased bandwidth while presenting a simplified single-interface view to the application layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The access point is designed to handle multiple functions: it serves as a wireless access point for Wi-Fi connections, a wired network switch for Ethernet connections, and a link aggregation controller. This multi-functionality allows a single device to manage diverse network interfaces and protocols, reducing the need for separate specialized devices.
2Productivity
If multiple network interfaces are used simultaneously, then bandwidth is increased, but network packet management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The link aggregation module acts as an intermediary between applications and multiple network interfaces. It receives network packets from applications, intelligently distributes them across available interfaces based on current network conditions, and manages the complexity of multi-interface communication so that applications see only a single simplified interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts network packet distribution based on real-time network conditions. The link aggregation module continuously monitors interface availability, signal strength, and network status, then dynamically adjusts which interfaces are active and how packets are routed, allowing the system to optimize performance as conditions change.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wireless network interfaces are used, then mobility and flexibility are improved, but reliability decreases due to congestion and SAR restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares backup network paths in advance by maintaining both wired and wireless interfaces ready for use. When the primary wireless interface experiences congestion or SAR restrictions, the link aggregation module has pre-configured alternative paths through the wired interface, providing immediate failover without service interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The link aggregation module continuously monitors the status and performance of each network interface, including signal strength, congestion levels, and SAR compliance. Based on this feedback, it dynamically adjusts packet distribution, reducing or eliminating traffic on degraded interfaces and routing traffic through reliable interfaces to maintain consistent service quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A client information handling system application selectively communicates network packets simultaneously through plural network interfaces by leveraging network address translation at the network layer of the network packets. Network packets are distributed across the plural network interfaces to achieve desired network communication goals, such as bandwidth, data rates, quality of service, reliability and SAR requirements.