Network Element Table Row Partial Update via Write Mask
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Solution Overview
Problem
In network elements, modifying a subset of data in a table row without affecting other data subsets is challenging due to the restriction of changing only a whole table row at a time, which can impact unrelated data.
Innovation Solution
A method and configuration that utilize a write request with a row memory address, row write mask, and row write data to selectively modify a targeted subset of data by applying the mask, incorporating new data, and then removing the mask to write the updated row back to the network processor, ensuring only the intended data is changed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a whole table row is modified at a time, then the operation is simple and efficient, but unrelated data in the same row is also altered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the table row modification operation into distinct parts by introducing a write mask that divides the row into modifiable and non-modifiable segments. Each bit in the write mask corresponds to a specific data element, allowing selective modification of only the intended portions while preserving others, thus resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and modification precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by enabling different modification behaviors for different parts of the same data structure. Through the write mask mechanism, certain bits or fields within a table row can be marked as writable while others remain read-only, allowing precise control over which specific data elements are modified without affecting the entire row uniformly.
2Device complexity
If only whole table rows can be changed, then the data structure management is straightforward, but selective data modification becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a write mask as an intermediary element that mediates between the simple whole-row modification capability and the need for selective data modification. This intermediary structure allows the system to maintain straightforward data structure management while enabling precise selective modifications through the mask's bit-level control mechanism.
3Speed
If configuration settings are stored in registers and memory tables, then data access is efficient, but partial updates within a row are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the write mask configurable and adaptable. The mask can be dynamically set to different patterns depending on which fields need modification, allowing the same efficient memory table structure to adapt to various partial update requirements without sacrificing access speed or requiring structural changes.
Data Source
AI summary
In general, embodiments of the invention relate to a method for modifying a targeted subset of a table row (consisting of assorted data) on a network element. More specifically, a network element agent, executing on the network element, may request that changes be applied to a portion of the assorted data, hence the targeted subset, without affecting the remainder of the table row (which may include data relevant to the responsibilities of other network element agents). Through the application of masking, changes applied only to the targeted subset may be achieved.