Network Interface Device With Embedded FPGA For Data Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network interface devices face challenges in efficiently processing and managing network data, particularly in handling specific applications that require specialized designs and functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A network interface device is designed with an interface for connecting to a network, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) with multiple data processing pipelines, and a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) embedded within the ASIC. The FPGA is reconfigurable and can perform various functions such as data reduction, aggregation, hybrid processing, denial of service attack detection, machine learning, and software-defined networking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a network interface device uses a fixed ASIC design for data processing, then processing efficiency is improved, but adaptability to different applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the network interface device reconfigurable through an embedded FPGA that can be programmed at runtime. This allows the device to dynamically adapt its data processing architecture to different application requirements while maintaining high processing efficiency through hardware acceleration. The reconfigurable logic enables the same physical device to specialize in different network processing tasks as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a network interface device that can perform multiple specialized functions through a single reconfigurable architecture. The embedded FPGA can be programmed to implement different data processing pipelines, filtering mechanisms, and protocol handling capabilities, allowing one device to replace multiple specialized devices while maintaining high performance for each specific function.
2Productivity
If a network interface device is designed for specific applications, then processing performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining fixed-function ASIC logic with reconfigurable FPGA logic into a single integrated device. This allows the benefits of both approaches to be realized: the ASIC provides optimized high-performance paths for common operations, while the FPGA provides flexibility for specialized functions. The merged architecture achieves specialized processing performance without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If reconfiguration is performed while the interface is in use, then adaptability is improved, but data loss may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by preparing reconfiguration sequences and data routing paths before actual reconfiguration occurs. The system anticipates reconfiguration needs and pre-establishes data flow alternatives, allowing seamless transitions during runtime. This preliminary preparation minimizes or eliminates data loss during reconfiguration events while maintaining runtime adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A network interface device has an interface configured to interface with a network. The interface is configured to at least one of receive data from the network and put data onto the network. The network interface device has an application specific integrated device with a plurality of data processing pipelines to process at least one of data which has been received from the network and data which is to be put onto said network and an FPGA arranged in a path parallel to the data processing pipelines.