Dynamic Signal Lane Re-allocation in Computing Interface Links

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computing systems face inefficiencies in dynamically reconfiguring signal lanes among interface links, leading to underutilization of resources due to unused lanes, which can limit performance and efficiency in data transmission.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that dynamically reconfigure unused signal lanes from one interface link to another based on link configurations and attributes, utilizing a lane routing device to selectively redistribute lanes and optimize link widths, thereby enhancing resource utilization and performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If signal lanes are statically allocated to interface links, then link configuration stability is improved, but resource utilization deteriorates due to unused lanes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelink configuration stabilityVSAvoidresource utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic lane allocation where the lane routing device can reconfigure signal lane assignments in real-time based on current link operational status. When a link goes offline or its bandwidth requirement changes, the system dynamically redirects unused lanes to active links, transforming the static allocation system into a dynamic one that adapts to changing conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of signal lanes by modifying their destination assignments. The lane routing device alters which link each lane is connected to, based on real-time monitoring of link status and bandwidth requirements. This parameter change enables the same physical lanes to serve different logical purposes under different conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If signal lanes are dynamically reconfigured among interface links, then resource utilization is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a lane routing device as an intermediary component between the signal lanes and interface links. This intermediary manages the complex reconfiguration logic, monitoring link status and making routing decisions without requiring complex modifications to the existing interface link architectures. The intermediary absorbs the complexity while presenting simple interfaces to the rest of the system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the lane routing device continuously monitors link operational status and bandwidth requirements, then uses this feedback information to make informed reconfiguration decisions. The feedback loop enables automatic adaptation to changing conditions without manual intervention, managing system complexity through automated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If unused signal lanes are reallocated to active links, then bandwidth efficiency is improved, but link operation reliability may deteriorate due to reconfiguration errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebandwidth efficiencyVSAvoidlink operation reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary monitoring and validation actions before executing lane reconfiguration. The lane routing device assesses link status, determines bandwidth requirements, and validates reconfiguration decisions before actually redirecting signal lanes. This preliminary action ensures that reconfigurations are performed only when appropriate and safe, reducing the risk of errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system prepares for potential reconfiguration issues by implementing validation checks and error handling mechanisms before reconfiguration occurs. The lane routing device ensures that target links are ready to receive additional lanes and that the reconfiguration will not cause operational failures, providing a cushion against reliability deterioration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS10331605B2Dynamic re-allocation of signal lanes
Publication Date: 2019.06.25 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US10331605B2 patent drawing
  • US10331605B2 patent drawing
  • US10331605B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer-implemented method determines that a link operation associated with a first link, among the set of interface links in a computing system, has resulted in a first set of signal lanes, included in the first link, becoming unused. The method further includes determining a link configuration and selecting, based on the link configuration, a second link from among the interface links, and determining a second set of signal lanes, from among the unused signal lanes included in the first link, to include in the second link. The signal lanes to include in the second link are based on an attribute associated with the second link. The method further includes dynamically reconfiguring the signal lanes included in the second to set to be included in the lanes in the second link. Some computing systems include a lane routing device connected to signal lanes of links among the interface links.