Shared Control Path for Dynamic Data Path Selection in Network Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing systems, such as smartphones and tablets, face limitations in data transfer rates due to standardized interfaces tied to specific bus protocols, which restrict the data transfer capabilities between wireless network devices and operating systems.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a shared control path to automatically determine and establish either a high-speed data path not corresponding to the bus protocol or a lower-speed path corresponding to the bus protocol, based on data transfer capabilities, allowing for efficient data communication over networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If standardized interfaces tied to specific bus protocols are used, then compatibility and ease of operation are improved, but data transfer rate is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented into two separate paths: a control path using the standardized bus protocol for compatibility, and a data path that can operate at higher speeds independently. This allows the system to maintain standardized control while enabling faster data transfer through alternative mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements multi-functionality by allowing the interface to operate in multiple modes: standardized bus protocol mode for compatibility and high-speed mode for performance. The interface can dynamically select between these modes based on the requirements of the data being transferred.
2Speed
If a high-speed data path not corresponding to the bus protocol is established, then data transfer rate is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automatic capability detection and path selection. The device automatically determines whether it supports high-speed data paths and configures the appropriate transfer mode without requiring manual intervention or complex user configuration, thereby reducing perceived complexity while maintaining high performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary capability detection during initialization to determine whether high-speed data paths are available. This advance determination allows the system to pre-configure the optimal data transfer path before actual data transmission begins, avoiding the need for complex runtime decision-making.
3Productivity
If automatic path selection based on capability detection is implemented, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements capability detection that checks for the presence of high-speed data path support, but does not require exhaustive verification of all possible capabilities. This partial detection approach is sufficient to enable the high-speed path when available, achieving high productivity without the overhead of extremely precise and comprehensive capability measurement.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems that provide for a control path to enable at least one of the two data paths for a network device (e.g., a modem) are provided. An example method includes allowing a device to communicate data, over a network, using a shared control path, within the device, corresponding to a first bus protocol. The method may include using the shared control path, obtaining control information corresponding to a data path, within the device, for allowing the device to communicate data over the network using a network interface. The method may further include automatically determining data transfer capabilities for transmitting or receiving data using the network interface based on the control information, if the data transfer capabilities are determined to be capable of supporting a first data path. The first data path that uses a different protocol from the first bus protocol may be automatically established.