Virtual NIC Routing for Multi-Network Data Flow

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Solution Overview

Problem

Networked capable devices are limited in simultaneously sending and receiving data packets from multiple wired and wireless networks, and lack the ability to dynamically route data in case of network failures or based on content type, leading to suboptimal network data flow.

Innovation Solution

A Routing program intercepts data packet streams from all active network interface controllers on a device, examines Source IP Addresses, and routes packets through the best available route, either default or modified, to ensure continuous data transmission across multiple network hubs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a networked device uses a single NIC to connect to one network hub, then the device can maintain simple network configuration and operation, but the device cannot simultaneously send and receive data packets from multiple networks, limiting network data flow and flexibility

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to simultaneously access multiple networksVSAvoidnetwork configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the network interface functionality into multiple independent NICs, each handling a specific network connection. The system separates physical network interfaces from logical network management by introducing a virtual NIC that coordinates between multiple physical NICs and applications, allowing simultaneous multi-network access while maintaining manageable complexity through functional segmentation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The virtual NIC acts as an intermediary layer between applications and multiple physical NICs. It intercepts data packets from applications, determines the appropriate physical NIC for transmission, and manages the routing decisions. This intermediary approach allows the system to access multiple networks simultaneously while keeping the complexity hidden from applications through a unified interface

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If a device uses multiple NICs to connect to multiple network hubs, then the device can maximize network data flow and provide redundant routing paths, but the device lacks the ability to dynamically route data packets based on network failures or content type

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork data flow capacityVSAvoidautomatic route selection capability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The virtual NIC implements feedback mechanisms by monitoring the status of multiple network connections and dynamically adjusting routing decisions based on real-time network conditions. When a network failure is detected or performance degrades, the system automatically reroutes data packets through alternative NICs, ensuring continuous operation without user intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The routing configuration is made dynamic rather than static. The virtual NIC continuously evaluates network conditions, application requirements, and packet characteristics to make real-time routing decisions. This allows the system to adapt to changing network conditions, failover to backup connections, and optimize data flow based on current performance

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If a device manually configures routing for each network connection, then the device can maintain precise control over data packet routing, but the user must continuously monitor and adjust routing settings, increasing operational complexity and time consumption

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork connection reliabilityVSAvoidtime for route configuration and adjustment

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The virtual NIC implements self-service routing by automatically monitoring network status, detecting failures, and rerouting data packets without user intervention. The system autonomously manages routing tables, evaluates connection quality, and makes routing decisions based on pre-configured policies and real-time conditions, eliminating the need for users to manually adjust routing settings while maintaining high reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary configuration by establishing multiple network connections and configuring the virtual NIC with routing policies before network failures occur. Backup routing paths are pre-established and tested, so when a failure happens, the system can immediately switch to alternative routes without requiring user action or time-consuming reconfiguration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11455160B1Simultaneous operation of a networked device using multiple disparate networks

Publication Date: 2022.09.27 SUSE LLC

AI summary

Performing at least one of transmitting a request for an update responsive to at least one of at least two applications executing on a network device via at least one available network connection, wherein the network device utilizes at least two network adapters and the first network adapter is configured for transmitting the request for the update, via a first network connection, and the second network adapter is configured for transmitting a confirmation request requesting the update, via a second network connection, wherein the second network connection is a faster data connection than the first network connection, and downloading the update for the at least two applications via the second network connection.