Compiler-Generated Syntax Trees for Multi-Protocol Bitstream Decoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for decoding physical signals across various network protocols are time-consuming, error-prone, and limited in flexibility due to the need for protocol-specific decoders written in high-level programming languages, which struggle with complex protocol specifications and initial packet framing.
Innovation Solution
A declarative language-based system that generates syntax trees to decode physical signals, allowing for the specification of protocol characteristics and transforming physical input signals into protocol-specific bitstreams, enabling decoding of arbitrary serial, network, or communications protocols using domain-specific declarative language definitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If protocol decoders are written in conventional Turing complete languages (C or Python), then the decoding functionality can be implemented, but the development process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses template-based protocol descriptions that can be copied and reused across multiple protocols. Instead of writing decoders from scratch in conventional languages, developers can replicate and adapt proven protocol templates, significantly reducing development time while maintaining reliability through established patterns
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows protocol specifications to be defined through parameterized templates where specific protocol details can be changed by modifying parameters rather than rewriting entire decoder logic. This enables rapid adaptation to different protocols while maintaining the robustness of the underlying decoder framework
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional declarative languages are used for protocol description, then some protocols can be described, but complex protocol specifications and initial packet framing cannot be adequately expressed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal protocol description language that can handle both simple and complex protocol specifications, including initial packet framing. This single language framework provides multi-functionality to describe various protocol types without requiring multiple specialized languages or tools
Solution Approach 2:
The protocol description is segmented into distinct components including packet framing definitions, field specifications, and validation rules. This segmentation allows complex protocols to be broken down into manageable parts that can be described using the declarative language while maintaining the ability to express intricate protocols through composition of these segments
3Reliability
If protocol-specific decoders are designed for particular protocols, then accurate decoding can be achieved, but flexibility to operate across a variety of incoming signals is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal decoder architecture that can accurately decode multiple different protocols through a single system. The declarative language descriptions serve as configuration that enables the same decoder engine to adapt to various protocols, maintaining decoding accuracy while providing broad protocol flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically configures the decoder behavior based on the loaded protocol description. Instead of static protocol-specific decoders, the system can adapt its decoding logic at runtime by loading different protocol specifications, enabling both accuracy for the target protocol and flexibility to handle multiple protocols
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for converting physical input signals into bitstreams using syntax trees regardless of the physical input signal's protocol. Using declarative language definitions within a protocol declaration, a test and measurement system can compile a syntax tree that automatically translates the input data into a proper bitstream output. The declarative language definitions within the protocol declaration allow custom or standard protocol rules to be written for multiple or arbitrary input protocols without writing unsafe functions, having to access memory, or debugging more complex language codes.