Network Controller Power Mode Switching via Packet Filtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network devices face challenges in maintaining a power saving mode due to increasing network complexity, requiring frequent packet processing that interferes with power conservation efforts, even when equipped with power saving mode functions.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with a packet table and determining unit that filters and eliminates unnecessary packet processing in regular power mode, allowing smooth switching to a power saving mode by disconnecting power to the main CPU and using a sub-CPU for network operations when no critical packets are received.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the network device maintains a power saving mode to reduce power consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but the device cannot respond to frequent network packets and requests
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments packet processing into two distinct modes: a power saving mode where the main CPU is inactive and only essential packets are processed, and a regular power mode where full packet processing is available. This segmentation allows the device to operate in low-power state for extended periods while still maintaining the ability to handle critical network communications when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching between power saving mode and regular power mode based on network traffic conditions. The device can transition from a low-power state to a high-performance state when packet processing requirements increase, and return to power saving mode when traffic subsides, optimizing the balance between energy consumption and productivity.
2Productivity
If the device processes all network packets in regular power mode, then packet handling capability is maintained, but power consumption increases and prevents power saving mode activation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and filters out unnecessary or non-critical packets from the network traffic stream, separating them from packets that require full processing. By identifying and eliminating packets that do not require main CPU intervention, the device can maintain adequate network functionality while operating in power saving mode, thereby reducing overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by processing only the essential subset of packets during power saving mode rather than all packets. This selective processing approach provides sufficient network responsiveness for critical operations while avoiding the full power consumption associated with processing every incoming packet through the main CPU.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the device switches to power saving mode frequently, then power consumption is reduced, but network responsiveness and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor network traffic patterns and device operational states to determine optimal timing for mode transitions. By continuously assessing network conditions and adjusting power mode accordingly, the system maintains reliable network responsiveness while maximizing power savings, avoiding premature or inappropriate mode switches.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus switches from a regular power mode to a power saving mode in the event that a first control unit does not process packets for a certain period of time. The information processing apparatus includes a packet table in which packets to be processed by the first control unit are registered, and a determining unit for determining whether the system of the information processing apparatus can switch to the power saving mode. In the event that the determining unit determines that the system can switch to the power saving mode, a network controller processes the packets based on the packet table.