Link Aggregation Module for Simultaneous Wired Wireless Packet Distribution

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current 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 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, while tracking SAR limits to maintain wireless transmit power and quality of service.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple network interfaces are used simultaneously, then bandwidth is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovebandwidthVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple network interfaces (wired Ethernet and wireless WLAN) into a unified communication system where a single application can simultaneously utilize both interfaces. The system merges the capabilities of separate network interfaces to provide aggregated bandwidth while presenting a unified interface to the application, thereby increasing productivity without proportionally increasing complexity from the application's perspective.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a multi-functional network communication system that can operate through multiple types of interfaces (wired and wireless) simultaneously. The system is designed to handle various network protocols and interface types through a universal framework, allowing a single application to access multiple network mediums without requiring separate applications for each interface type.

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

2Productivity

If indirect network interfaces (peer-to-peer, mesh) are used, then bandwidth is improved, but reliability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovebandwidthVSAvoidreliability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic interface selection and management where the system can adaptively choose between direct access points and indirect peer-to-peer or mesh interfaces based on current network conditions. When direct access is unavailable or suboptimal, the system dynamically establishes indirect paths through other clients, allowing bandwidth optimization while maintaining reliability through adaptive routing decisions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses intermediary clients in peer-to-peer and mesh network configurations to facilitate communication when direct access points are unavailable. These intermediary clients act as mediators that relay data between the source and destination, enabling indirect network access that can provide substantial bandwidth while managing the inherent reliability challenges of indirect paths through multiple hops.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If wireless network interfaces are used, then adaptability is improved, but SAR restrictions worsen performance

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddata transfer rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically changes transmission parameters including power levels, frequency selection, and interface selection based on SAR constraints and network conditions. The system monitors SAR limits and adjusts wireless transmission parameters in real-time, switching between wired and wireless interfaces, and modifying wireless power output to remain within SAR limits while maximizing data transfer rates within those constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10581724B2Managing network packet communication simultaneously through wired and wireless network interfaces
Publication Date: 2020.03.03 DELL PROD LP
  • US10581724B2 patent drawing
  • US10581724B2 patent drawing
  • US10581724B2 patent drawing

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.