Software Router in Application Memory Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
In environments where multiple mobile devices are used together, such as in vehicles, providing network connectivity to all users with a limited number of physical connections is challenging, as existing solutions require expensive customizations and specialized software/hardware that are not easily deployable.
Innovation Solution
A software router is implemented in the user application memory space of a general-purpose computer to route network traffic between co-resident applications and external networks, using a software router-to-application connection process that allows access to the operating system's protocol stack, enabling flexible communication architecture and leveraging existing embedded router technology with minimal modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specialized software and hardware are used to provide network connectivity to multiple users with limited physical connections, then network connectivity is improved, but cost and deployability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses virtualization to create virtual copies of network interfaces and routing functionality. Instead of requiring specialized hardware for each connection, the system creates virtual network interface cards (vNICs) and virtual routing instances that can be replicated and distributed across multiple users, providing network connectivity through software-based copying of networking capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces specialized hardware routing devices with software-based routing implemented on general-purpose computers. The routing functionality is transformed from a mechanical/hardware system to a software system that can run on standard equipment, improving deployability while maintaining network connectivity through virtualized networking stacks and software-defined networking
2Reliability
If specialized hardware is used to provide network connectivity, then network connectivity is improved, but cost worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes general-purpose computers perform specialized routing functions through virtualization. A single physical computer can host multiple virtual routing instances serving different users or networks, making the hardware universal and multi-functional. This eliminates the need for dedicated specialized hardware for each routing task, reducing overall cost while maintaining reliable network connectivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual copies of routing functionality that can be deployed across multiple users without requiring additional specialized hardware for each copy. The virtualized routing instances can be replicated and distributed, providing network connectivity through software-based copying that eliminates the need for expensive specialized hardware proliferation
Data Source
AI summary
The embodiments described herein provide mechanism that allows an embedded router software image and an application to run in the user application memory space of a general purpose computer. A connection is established with an operating system device configured to route packets between the application and the software router and route, by the software router, network traffic to and from the application by way of the connection. The application may be connected to other applications in the user application memory space or connected to applications that are external to the general purpose computer.