Network Device State Transitions for Energy Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
As the demand for Ethernet connectivity increases due to the rise of portable devices, there is a need for reducing power consumption in Ethernet networks while maintaining compatibility with existing infrastructure and minimizing network component redesign.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method and system for low latency state transitions that reconfigure network devices from an energy-saving mode to a higher performance mode by allocating and deallocating memory based on the time required for reconfiguration, using energy efficient networking (EEN) techniques such as low power idle (LPI) and sub-rating, which are managed through an EEN control policy at the physical layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If network devices operate in energy-saving mode to reduce power consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but performance and response time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic mode switching between energy-saving and high-performance states based on traffic conditions. The network device transitions from LPI mode to full performance mode when traffic is detected, and returns to LPI mode when idle, creating a dynamic adaptation to workload requirements rather than static operation in one mode
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring buffer memory allocation and pre-warming critical subsystems before full traffic resumption. When transitioning from LPI mode, the device allocates buffer memory in advance and gradually activates components to minimize latency impact on actual data transmission
2Loss of time
If network devices transition quickly from energy-saving mode to high-performance mode, then latency is reduced, but energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wake-up process into distinct phases: critical path components (transceivers, buffer allocation) are activated first to minimize latency, while non-critical components (advanced error correction, optional processing features) are activated subsequently. This staged approach reduces overall wake-up time while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption from activating all components simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different quality levels to different components during transition. Essential components required for immediate data transmission (physical layer, buffer memory) are fully activated with high priority, while optional or enhancement features are activated with lower priority or deferred, creating localized optimization of energy vs. performance trade-offs across different subsystems
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing network infrastructure is used without redesign to implement energy efficiency, then compatibility is improved, but the ability to implement advanced energy-saving features deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal LPI mechanism that works across different network device types and existing Ethernet infrastructure without requiring proprietary extensions. The approach uses standard Ethernet physical layer concepts that can be implemented in existing devices, making the energy-saving feature universally applicable rather than requiring device-specific redesigns
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control mechanism that manages the transition between LPI and active modes without requiring changes to higher-layer protocols or application software. The physical layer intermediary handles mode transitions, buffer management, and traffic resumption, shielding upper layers from the complexity of energy-saving operations while maintaining standard interface compatibility
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of a method and system for physical layer control of low latency state transitions for energy efficiency. In this regard, a determination may be made to reconfigure a network device from an energy saving mode of operation to a higher performance mode of operation. A first portion of the network device may be reconfigured prior to sending an indication of the reconfiguration to a link partner, and a remaining portion of the network device may be reconfigured after sending the indication. The link partner may begin reconfiguration from an energy saving mode of operation to higher performance mode of operation upon receiving the indication. The energy saving mode may comprise a low power idle (LPI) or a subset PHY mode. The reconfiguration may comprise allocating memory to, and/or de-allocating memory from, buffering received and/or to-be-transmitted data.