Protocol Stack Cross-Layer Communication via Opaque Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cross-layer communication mechanisms in the OSI protocol stack require a separate tangible channel and lack standard interfaces for inter-layer signalling and control data communication, especially between hardware and software layers, and fail to synchronize state information across layers.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize opaque objects within data units conforming to extendible schemas to communicate message data between layers of the protocol stack, enabling state synchronization and inter-layer communication through a virtual channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate tangible communication channel is used for cross-layer communication, then inter-layer signalling can be implemented, but device complexity and implementation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cross-layer signalling channel with the existing protocol stack data transmission channel. Instead of creating a separate tangible communication channel, the invention embeds cross-layer message data within standard protocol data units (PDUs) that already traverse the protocol stack, thereby eliminating the need for additional channel infrastructure while enabling reliable inter-layer communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the existing PDU structure multi-functional by enabling it to carry both standard data payload and cross-layer signalling messages simultaneously. Through the use of opaque objects and type-length-value (TLV) encoding within extension headers, the same data transmission infrastructure serves dual purposes: routine data communication and cross-layer control signalling.
2Ease of operation
If standard interfaces for inter-layer signalling are established, then communication between layers becomes feasible, but protocol stack complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cross-layer message data into structured type-length-value (TLV) fields within extension headers. Each TLV element represents a discrete signalling parameter with a defined type identifier, length, and value, allowing layers to process only the relevant segments of interest while ignoring others, thereby managing interface complexity through modular data organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the PDU structure by introducing extendible extension headers with opaque objects that can be dynamically added or removed based on specific communication needs. This allows the protocol stack to adapt its interface structure without fundamentally redesigning the entire protocol architecture, managing complexity through configurable parameter expansion.
3Reliability
If hardware and software layers communicate directly, then inter-layer signalling is achieved, but synchronization difficulties arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of standardized extension headers with opaque objects that mediate communication between hardware and software layers. These headers serve as a neutral interface format that both hardware and software components can process according to defined rules, eliminating direct coupling and synchronization conflicts by providing a standardized intermediate representation layer.
4Productivity
If cross-layer communication mechanisms are implemented, then resource reservation control improves, but loss of time for message processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous cross-layer communication by embedding signalling messages within the normal data flow path rather than requiring separate interrupt-driven or synchronous communication sequences. The extension headers are processed inline with regular PDU handling, maintaining the continuous flow of data through the protocol stack while simultaneously conveying control information, thereby minimizing additional processing delays.
Data Source
AI summary
In a method of communicating between layers of a protocol stack, message data are generated for communicating between a first layer and a second layer of the protocol stack. The message data are incorporated into a data unit by providing an opaque object within the data unit, conforming to a data structure definition supporting extendible schemas, the opaque object including the message data.