Robert Millard France

Title: Innovations by Robert Millard France

Introduction

Robert Millard France is an accomplished inventor based in Littleton, MA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of technology, particularly in network management and routing systems. With a total of 2 patents, his work has had a notable impact on the efficiency of data transmission in computer networks.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is a "High speed cache management unit for use in a bridge/router." This invention provides a method and cache management for a bridge or bridge/router, enabling high-speed and flexible address cache management. The unit maintains a network address cache and an age table, searches the cache for layer 2 and layer 3 addresses from received frame headers, and returns address search results. It includes an interface for processor manipulation of the cache and age table, supporting a 4-way set associative cache to store network addresses. The unit can identify and select destination ports within a Load Balanced Port Group for frame forwarding, utilizing Virtual LAN identification in conjunction with a MAC address for cache lookup.

Another significant patent is an "Apparatus and method for selecting improved routing paths in an autonomous system." This invention allows network bridges to identify and modify Routing Information Protocol (RIP) update messages based on information from a routing database. This modification ensures that RIP messages accurately reflect the position of the network router that broadcast the message, enhancing routing efficiency.

Career Highlights

Robert Millard France has worked at 3Com Corporation, where he has been instrumental in developing innovative networking solutions. His expertise in network management has contributed to the advancement of technologies that improve data routing and transmission.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Robert has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Christopher P Lawler and Shannon Q Hill. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has led to the development of groundbreaking technologies in the networking field.

Conclusion

Robert Millard France is a distinguished inventor whose work in network management has paved the way for advancements in data transmission technologies. His patents reflect a commitment to innovation and efficiency in the field of computer networking.