Multi-board chassis remote cooperative debugging system based on interface virtualization and application

Abstract

The application discloses a multi-board chassis remote collaborative debugging system based on interface virtualization and application, belongs to the technical field of remote debugging of electronic equipment, and relates to a system which comprises an edge access layer, a cloud or local area network transfer layer and a client virtual layer; the edge access layer is connected with the client virtual layer through the cloud or local area network transfer layer; the edge access layer is used for data transfer and polymorphic data flow distribution; the cloud or local area network transfer layer is used for managing user connection and session state; and the client virtual layer connection is used for transmitting data to the edge access layer through a network and supporting simultaneous operation of multiple host computer software. The collaborative debugging system breaks through the one-to-one limitation of traditional connection, realizes real multi-person collaborative debugging, provides a perfect permission management mechanism, maintains high real-time performance and compatibility, and is suitable for various network environments.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of remote debugging technology for electronic devices, and particularly relates to a remote collaborative debugging system and application for multi-board chassis based on interface virtualization. Background Technology

[0002] In fields such as industrial automation, communication equipment, and test and measurement, a chassis typically contains multiple circuit boards. These boards need to be connected to a computer via USB interfaces for debugging using host computer software. Existing debugging methods mainly include traditional physical connection modes: directly connecting the chassis to a single computer via USB cables; exclusive access to the board resources by the host computer software; and requiring debugging personnel to operate on-site. Existing remote debugging technologies include: USB over Network technology, which extends the USB signal over a network to enable remote access; remote desktop technology, which controls the on-site computer through remote desktop software (such as TeamViewer and AnyDesk); and serial port servers, which convert serial port data into network data to enable remote access.

[0003] Problems with existing technology: Unable to support simultaneous debugging by multiple users: Traditional USB connections are exclusive; once one computer is connected, other computers cannot access it simultaneously. When encountering complex problems, it is impossible to ask colleagues to view and assist in debugging at the same time. Knowledge sharing and problem-solving are inefficient.

[0004] Lack of effective collaboration mechanisms: Existing remote tools only achieve "one-to-one" connections; operational conflicts are prone to occur when multiple people collaborate; and the roles of observers and operators cannot be distinguished.

[0005] Low debugging efficiency: Debugging personnel must be on-site or have exclusive access to the equipment; troubleshooting cycles are long and response times are slow; and the team's expert resources cannot be fully utilized.

[0006] Lack of access control mechanism: When multiple people connect, it is impossible to effectively control operation permissions; multiple people may issue commands at the same time, which may damage the device; lack of operation record and traceability mechanism.

[0007] Data flow management is difficult: board logs, waveforms, and status data cannot be shared in real time; data flows from multiple boards are difficult to manage uniformly; and access permissions for different boards cannot be assigned as needed. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In view of this, the present invention discloses a remote collaborative debugging system and application for multi-board chassis based on interface virtualization.

[0009] The present invention adopts the following technical solution: A remote collaborative debugging system for multi-board chassis based on interface virtualization, the system comprising: The edge access layer is used for data relay and polymorphic data stream distribution. The polymorphic data stream distribution supports a "1 write N read" mode, which includes: only one user is allowed to have write permission at the same time, while other users are in read-only observation state, and the status, waveform and log data reported by the board are copied and distributed to all online engineers in real time. A cloud or local area network (LAN) relay layer, which is used to manage user connections and session states; A client virtual layer is used to send data to the edge access layer via the network, and supports the simultaneous operation of multiple host computer software programs; The edge access layer is connected to the client virtual layer through a cloud or local area network relay layer.

[0010] Furthermore, the polymorphic data stream distribution includes: implementing data interception and distribution at the edge access layer; implementing a broadcast mechanism at the cloud or local area network relay layer; and implementing a virtual serial port driver at the client virtual layer.

[0011] Furthermore, the polymorphic data stream distribution also includes: implementing read-write separation marking at the protocol layer, whereby the protocol layer is a specification for communication between devices, servers, and clients, used to regulate the transmission of data in a specified format between the edge access layer, cloud or LAN relay layer, and client virtual layer.

[0012] Furthermore, the edge access layer runs a virtualization proxy service to intercept data streams received from serial ports or USB ports and package the data streams into TCP or UDP packets.

[0013] Furthermore, the edge access layer connects to the physical computer or dedicated embedded device of the chassis and physically connects to multiple boards of the chassis via a USB interface.

[0014] Furthermore, the cloud or local area network relay layer establishes a debugging session to implement a broadcast mechanism; the broadcast mechanism includes: when the chassis board outputs a log line, the server broadcasts the log to all connected clients.

[0015] Furthermore, the cloud or local area network relay layer is deployed on a cloud server or a local area network server.

[0016] Furthermore, the client virtual layer installs a virtual serial port driver; the client virtual layer is deployed on the debugging personnel's laptop or workstation.

[0017] Furthermore, the system also includes a dynamic operation right arbitration module, which is used for operation right control of the system. The functions of the dynamic operation right arbitration module include: implementing session management and access control in the cloud or local area network relay layer; implementing control interface and status prompts in the client virtual layer; implementing token transmission in the protocol; and performing heartbeat detection and timeout processing.

[0018] An application of the above system, wherein the system is used for remote development, testing or maintenance of multi-hardware board integrated systems.

[0019] The present invention has the following advantages over the prior art: Direct effect: 1. Supports simultaneous debugging by multiple users: Breaking through the one-to-one limitation of traditional USB connections, it enables multiple users to access and collaborate on debugging simultaneously, improving team collaboration efficiency; 2. Real-time data sharing: The board data is broadcast to all users in real time, and the data seen by all users is updated synchronously, which facilitates problem analysis and discussion; 3. Prevent operation conflicts: Dynamic operation right arbitration mechanism, mutual exclusion writing to prevent device damage, automatic release upon timeout to avoid hogging; 4. Simplified multi-board management: Virtual channel mapping technology enables the merging and transmission of data streams from multiple boards, on-demand subscription, and flexible configuration; 5. Compatible with existing software: No need to modify the host computer software, the virtual serial port driver provides transparent access, reducing deployment costs.

[0020] Indirect effects and overall effects: 1. Improve debugging efficiency: shorten troubleshooting time, make full use of team expert resources, and accelerate product development and maintenance; 2. Reduce operation and maintenance costs: Reduce on-site debugging needs, lower travel expenses, and improve resource utilization; 3. Improve product quality: Collaborate with multiple people to identify problems, quickly locate and resolve issues, and improve product stability and reliability; 4. Enhance team capabilities: knowledge sharing and transfer, remote training and technical support, and improve the overall technical level of the team; 5. Adapt to the trend of remote work: Support distributed team collaboration, adapt to special circumstances such as the epidemic, and improve work flexibility.

[0021] Overall, the collaborative debugging system of this invention breaks through the one-to-one limitation of traditional connections, realizes true multi-person collaborative debugging, provides a complete permission management mechanism, maintains high real-time performance and compatibility, and adapts to various network environments. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the remote collaborative debugging system architecture for multi-board chassis based on interface virtualization according to the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the polymorphic data stream distribution mechanism (1 write N read mode) of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the dynamic operation right arbitration process of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the virtual channel mapping and on-demand subscription mechanism of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To better understand the technical solution of the present invention, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0026] Example 1 A remote collaborative debugging system for multi-board chassis based on interface virtualization, the system comprising: The edge access layer is used for data relay and polymorphic data stream distribution. The polymorphic data stream distribution supports a "1 write N read" mode, which includes: only one user is allowed to have write permission at the same time, while other users are in read-only observation state. The status, waveform and log data reported by the board are copied and distributed to all online engineers in real time, and the interface seen by all users is refreshed synchronously. A cloud or local area network (LAN) relay layer, which is used to manage user connections and session states; A client virtual layer is used to send data to the edge access layer via the network, and supports the simultaneous operation of multiple host computer software programs; The edge access layer is connected to the client virtual layer through a cloud or local area network relay layer.

[0027] Furthermore, the polymorphic data stream distribution includes: implementing data interception and distribution at the edge access layer; implementing a broadcast mechanism at the cloud or local area network relay layer; and implementing a virtual serial port driver at the client virtual layer.

[0028] Furthermore, the polymorphic data stream distribution also includes: implementing read-write separation marking at the protocol layer, whereby the protocol layer is a specification for communication between devices, servers, and clients, used to regulate the transmission of data in a specified format between the edge access layer, cloud or LAN relay layer, and client virtual layer.

[0029] Furthermore, the edge access layer runs a virtualization proxy service to intercept data streams received from serial ports or USB ports and package the data streams into TCP or UDP packets.

[0030] Furthermore, the edge access layer connects to the physical computer or dedicated embedded device of the chassis and physically connects to multiple boards of the chassis via a USB interface.

[0031] Furthermore, the cloud or local area network relay layer establishes a debugging session to implement a broadcast mechanism; the broadcast mechanism includes: when the chassis board outputs a log line, the server broadcasts the log to all connected clients.

[0032] Furthermore, the cloud or local area network relay layer is deployed on a cloud server or a local area network server.

[0033] Furthermore, the client virtual layer installs a virtual serial port driver; the client virtual layer is deployed on the debugging personnel's laptop or workstation.

[0034] Furthermore, the system also includes a dynamic operation right arbitration module, which is used for operation right control of the system. The functions of the dynamic operation right arbitration module include: implementing session management and access control in the cloud or local area network relay layer; implementing control interface and status prompts in the client virtual layer; implementing token transmission in the protocol; and performing heartbeat detection and timeout processing.

[0035] Furthermore, the system also includes a virtual channel mapping module, which is used to implement channel merging, channel separation, on-demand subscription, and dynamic channel management. The functions of the virtual channel mapping module include: implementing channel merging at the edge access layer; implementing channel separation at the client virtual layer; implementing channel identification in the protocol; and performing subscription management and data filtering.

[0036] An application of the above system, wherein the system is used for remote development, testing or maintenance of multi-hardware board integrated systems.

[0037] Example 2 A remote collaborative debugging system for multi-board chassis based on interface virtualization, such as Figure 1The diagram shown illustrates the architecture of the multi-board chassis remote collaborative debugging system based on interface virtualization according to the present invention, comprising three main parts: A. Edge Access Layer (Edge Agent / Gateway) Deployment location: A physical computer or dedicated embedded device (such as a Raspberry Pi or industrial PC) connected to a chassis; Core functions: Multiple circuit boards are physically connected to the chassis via USB interfaces; Run the Virtualization Agent service. Intercept data streams (Hex / ASCII) received from serial port / USB; Pack the data stream into TCP / UDP packets; It is responsible for data transfer and distribution, but does not handle business logic.

[0038] B. Cloud / LAN relay layer (Relay Server) Deployment location: cloud server or local area network server (optional but advantageous for remote deployment); Core functions: Establish a debug session. Implement a broadcast mechanism: When a chassis board outputs a log line, the server broadcasts that log to all connected clients; Ensure that all users see data that is updated synchronously. Manage user connections and session state.

[0039] C. Client Virtual Driver Deployment location: The debugging personnel's laptop or workstation; Core functions: Install the virtual serial port driver (Virtual COM Port); The host computer software connects to the virtual COM port, mistaking it for a physical cable connection. The actual data is sent to the edge access layer via the network; It supports the simultaneous operation of multiple host computer software programs.

[0040] Example 3 The core innovation of this invention lies in "Session Multiplexing" and "Permission Arbitration," which distinguishes it from the traditional "USB over Network" technology.

[0041] Traditional mode: Physical USB cable → 1 computer → 1 host computer software (exclusive); The mode adopted by this invention: Physical USB cable → Virtualization gateway (software / hardware) → Network → N computers → N host computer software (running simultaneously).

[0042] I. Implementation of the polymorphic data stream distribution (Read-Write Separation) technology of this invention. For example... Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the polymorphic data stream distribution mechanism (1 write N read mode) of the present invention.

[0043] Technical Description: The system of this invention supports a "1 write N read" mode, specifically including: 1. N reads (broadcast): 1.1 Status, waveform, Log, and other data reported by the board; 1.2 It was copied and distributed in real time to all online engineers; 1.3 The interface seen by all users is refreshed synchronously; 1. Data streams are lossless and latency-free.

[0044] 2.1 Write (mutually exclusive): 2.1 To prevent equipment damage caused by multiple people issuing commands simultaneously; 2.2 The system introduces a "Token Bucket mechanism"; 2.3 Only one user is allowed to have write permissions at a time; 2.4 Other users are in read-only observation mode.

[0045] Technical Implementation: Implement data interception and distribution at the edge access layer; Implement a broadcast mechanism in the cloud or local area network relay layer; Implement a virtual serial port driver on the client-side virtual layer; Implement read-write separation flags at the protocol layer.

[0046] Second, the system of this invention employs dynamic arbitration technology to achieve operational control. For example... Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the dynamic operation right arbitration process of the present invention.

[0047] 1. Role Definition: 1.1 By default, everyone is an "Observer"; 1.2 Observers can only view waveforms / logs and cannot issue commands; 1.3 When debugging is required, click "Request Control".

[0048] 2. Control application process: 2.1 The user clicks the "Request Control" button; 2.2 The system checks whether any other user currently has control rights; 2.3 If no control rights are held, then control rights shall be granted to the user; 2.4 Other user interface prompts "Currently controlled by [username]"; 2.5 The controller can issue instructions to the hardware.

[0049] 3. Timeout release mechanism: 3.1 If the controller remains inactive for 30 seconds, the token will be automatically released; 3.2 To prevent users from occupying the slot for extended periods without performing any operations; 3.3 Supports manual release of control.

[0050] 4. Priority Management (Optional): 4.1 Supports setting user priorities; 4.2 High-priority users may apply to preempt control; 4.3 Applicable to emergency situations; The dynamic operation right arbitration implementation of this system includes: implementing session management and access control at the relay layer; implementing control interface and status prompts at the client; implementing token passing mechanism at the protocol layer; and implementing heartbeat detection and timeout handling.

[0051] III. Implementation of the Virtual Channel Mapping technology of this invention. For example... Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the virtual channel mapping and on-demand subscription mechanism of the present invention.

[0052] Technical Description: 1. Channel merging: 1.1 The chassis contains 5 boards (corresponding to 5 virtual serial ports); 1.2 The system can combine these 5 data streams into a single network cable for transmission; 1.3 Reduce the number of network connections and improve efficiency.

[0053] 2. Channel separation: 2.1 After the data arrives at the client, it is decompressed and restored to 5 COM ports; 2.2 Each COM port corresponds to one board; 2.3 The host computer software can independently connect to each COM port.

[0054] 3. On-demand subscription: 3.1 Different engineers can subscribe to the data of only one board; 3.2 Reduce unnecessary data transmission; 3.3 Improve network utilization efficiency.

[0055] 4. Dynamic Channel Management: 4.1 Supports dynamic addition / deletion of boards; 4.2 Supports channel remapping; 4.3 Supports channel status monitoring.

[0056] The technical implementation of virtual channel mapping in this system includes: channel merging at the edge access layer; channel separation at the client end; channel identification in the protocol; and subscription management and data filtering.

[0057] Example 4 This invention discloses a workflow for a multi-board chassis remote collaborative debugging system based on interface virtualization: Step 1: System Initialization 1. Start the edge access layer and connect to the chassis USB; 2. The virtualization agent service is running, scanning the board devices; 3. The relay server starts up and waits for client connections; 4. Install the virtual serial port driver on the client.

[0058] Step 2: User Access 1. Client connects to relay server; 2. User authentication and permission verification; 3. Establish a virtual serial port mapping; 4. Connect the host computer software to the virtual COM port.

[0059] Step 3: Data Communication 1. The board reports data to the edge access layer; 2. The edge access layer packages the data and sends it to the relay server; 3. The relay server broadcasts data to all clients; 4. The client-side virtual driver writes data to the virtual COM port; 5. The host computer software reads and displays the data.

[0060] Step 4: Control Operation 1. The user requests control; 2. The system grants control, and other users switch to observation mode; 3. Users issue commands through host computer software; 4. Commands are transmitted to the edge access layer via the network; 5. The edge access layer sends instructions to the board for execution; The 6th board returned the execution result; 7. The results are broadcast to all users; 8. Release control after the operation is completed or the timeout period.

[0061] Step 5: Session Management 1. Monitor user connection status; 2. Allocation of management control; 3. Handling abnormal disconnections; 4. Record operation logs.

[0062] Example 5 The present invention discloses the working principle of a multi-board chassis remote collaborative debugging system based on interface virtualization: 1. Hardware Working Principle 1.1 Edge Access Layer Hardware: Main control chip: adopts a high-performance ARM processor or x86 architecture processor; USB interface: Supports USB 2.0 / 3.0, providing multiple USB ports for connecting cards; Network interface: Supports multiple network connection methods such as Ethernet and WiFi; Storage: Built-in Flash storage system program and configuration; Power supply: Supports 12V / 24V industrial power input.

[0063] 1.2 Working Principle Enumerate the connected board devices via the USB Host interface; Use the USB driver to establish communication with the board; High-speed reading of USB data via DMA; Use the TCP / IP protocol stack to package and send the data.

[0064] 2. Software working principle: 2.1 Virtualization Proxy Service Device management module: Scans and identifies connected cards, maintains device list and status, and handles device hot-swapping; Data interception module: Uses the driver to intercept USB / serial port data, parses the data packet format, and adds timestamps and serial numbers; Network transmission module: Establishing TCP / UDP connections, data packaging and sending, heartbeat detection and reconnection; Protocol processing module: Implements custom communication protocols, processes control commands, and manages session states.

[0065] 2.2 Relay Server Session Management Module: Creates and manages debug sessions, maintains the user connection list, and handles user joining / leaving; Message routing module: Receives data from the edge access layer, broadcasts data to all clients, and processes point-to-point messages; Access control module: manages user roles and permissions, handles control right requests / releases, and implements a timeout mechanism; Log recording module: Records user operations, saves communication data, and supports auditing and traceability.

[0066] 3. Client-side virtual driver Virtual serial port implementation: Creates a virtual COM port to simulate the behavior of a physical serial port and supports standard serial port APIs; Network communication module: Connects to the relay server, receives network data, and sends control commands; Data caching module: Caches received data, handles data flow control, and ensures data order; User interface module: Displays connection status, provides control buttons, and displays system information.

[0067] 4. Communication Protocol Design Protocol level: Application layer (debugging data, control commands); Session layer (session management, access control); Transport layer (TCP / UDP); Network layer (IP); Data link layer (Ethernet); Physical layer (network cable, WiFi).

[0068] 5. Main control commands: CMD_CONNECT: Connection request; CMD_AUTH: Authentication request; CMD_CONTROL_REQUEST: Requesting control; CMD_CONTROL_GRANT: Grants control; CMD_CONTROL_RELEASE: Release control; CMD_KEEPALIVE: Heartbeat packet.

[0069] The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present invention. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of the present invention. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of the present invention. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

Claims

1. A remote collaborative debugging system for multi-board chassis based on interface virtualization, characterized in that, The system includes: The edge access layer is used for data relay and polymorphic data stream distribution. The polymorphic data stream distribution supports a "1 write N read" mode, which includes: only one user is allowed to have write permission at the same time, while other users are in read-only observation state, and the status, waveform and log data reported by the board are copied and distributed to all online engineers in real time. A cloud or local area network (LAN) relay layer, which is used to manage user connections and session states; A client virtual layer is used to send data to the edge access layer via the network, and supports the simultaneous operation of multiple host computer software programs; The edge access layer is connected to the client virtual layer through a cloud or local area network relay layer.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The polymorphic data stream distribution includes: implementing data interception and distribution at the edge access layer; implementing a broadcast mechanism at the cloud or local area network relay layer; and implementing a virtual serial port driver at the client virtual layer.

3. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The polymorphic data stream distribution also includes: implementing read-write separation marking at the protocol layer, whereby the protocol layer is a specification for communication between devices, servers, and clients, used to regulate the transmission of data in a specified format between the edge access layer, cloud or LAN relay layer, and client virtual layer.

4. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The edge access layer runs a virtualization proxy service that intercepts data streams received from serial ports or USB ports and packages the data streams into TCP or UDP packets.

5. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The edge access layer connects to the physical computer or dedicated embedded device of the chassis and physically connects to multiple boards in the chassis via a USB interface.

6. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cloud or local area network relay layer establishes a debugging session to implement a broadcast mechanism; the broadcast mechanism includes: when the chassis board outputs a log line, the server broadcasts the log to all connected clients.

7. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The cloud or local area network relay layer is deployed on a cloud server or a local area network server.

8. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The client virtual layer installs a virtual serial port driver; the client virtual layer is deployed on the debugging personnel's laptop or workstation.

9. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The system also includes a dynamic operation right arbitration module, which is used for operation right control of the system. The functions of the dynamic operation right arbitration module include: implementing session management and access control in the cloud or local area network relay layer; implementing control interface and status prompts in the client virtual layer; implementing token transmission in the protocol; and performing heartbeat detection and timeout processing.

10. An application of the system as described in claims 1-9, characterized in that, The system is used for remote development, testing, or maintenance of multi-hardware board integrated systems.

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