Packet Fragmentation via Intermediate Node MTU Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data transmission is hindered by the maximum transmission unit (MTU) size limitation, where packets larger than the defined MTU size can cause interruptions, slowing, or failure in data transmission between nodes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that involves receiving a packet at an intermediate node, determining its size, and if it exceeds the MTU size of a destination node, fragmenting the packet into smaller packets that adhere to the MTU size, allowing successful transmission by recording the MTU size and identifier in a cache table and sending each fragmented packet to the destination node.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If data is transmitted in large packets to improve transmission efficiency, then productivity is improved, but the packet size may exceed the MTU size causing transmission interruptions or failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing large data packets into smaller fragmented packets that fit within the MTU size limit. The intermediate node receives a large packet, determines it exceeds the MTU size, and then segments it into multiple smaller packets before transmission to the destination node. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining transmission reliability through size compliance while preserving productivity through efficient data transfer.
2Reliability
If the intermediate node fragments packets automatically, then transmission reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by having the source node perform packet fragmentation automatically based on MTU size information received from the intermediate node. The source node records the MTU size in a cache table and autonomously fragments subsequent packets without requiring continuous intermediate node intervention. This reduces device complexity at the intermediate node while maintaining transmission reliability through consistent packet size control.
3Reliability
If packet fragmentation is implemented to fit MTU size, then transmission reliability is improved, but loss of time occurs due to additional processing and multiple packet transmissions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the source node determine and record the MTU size in advance before actual data transmission. The source node performs fragmentation preparation and stores fragmentation information in a cache table, so that when data needs to be transmitted, the fragmentation process is already optimized and ready. This reduces processing time during actual transmission while maintaining reliability through pre-configured packet size control.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of facilitating packet transmission comprises a first node, a second node, and an intermediate node. The intermediate node receives a first packet, from the first node, determines a packet size, determines a maximum transmission unit (MTU) size, and determines whether the packet size is greater than the MTU size, sends a second packet to the first node specifying the MTU size to the first node. The first node records a destination mark at the first node, including the MTU size and an identifier of the second node, fragments the first packet into a plurality of fragmented packets, and sends each of the plurality of fragmented packets to the intermediate node. The intermediate node receives each of the plurality of fragmented packets, from the first node, and sends the fragmented packets to the second node.