System and method providing a packet switching work distribution

Abstract

A processing system for distributing work in a computing environment arranges nodes in a network topology. Each node comprises upstream and downstream ports for receiving and sending packets, and ingress or egress ports for accepting new entries or forwarding packets to functional units. Nodes evaluate received packets for local processing, removing them for processing or forwarding to the next node. The system implements flow control at ingress ports, arbitrates between multiple ingress ports when the upstream port is idle, and distributes work locally to connected egress ports. Packets are inspected to determine suitability for processing by connected functional units. This efficient system enables flexible work distribution strategies in homogeneous and heterogeneous networks, reducing the need for repeaters and long wires on integrated circuits.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.