Auto-configuring Computing Devices via Near Field Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated computing device configuration methods in network environments, such as data centers, do not effectively utilize device location information for IP address assignment, leading to ambiguity in identifying specific devices within clusters.
Innovation Solution
The method involves broadcasting identification and position data via electromagnetic near fields from multiple surface positions on computing devices, allowing each device to determine its relative position and establish a unique configuration, including IP addresses, based on its location within the data center.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If DHCP assigns IP addresses on a first come first served basis in random form, then IP address assignment is automated, but the assigned IP address provides little information regarding the computing device's location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameters used in IP address assignment from random/first-come-first-served to location-based parameters. Each computing device determines its physical position in the data center (rack number, row position, vertical position) and uses these spatial parameters to assign meaningful IP addresses that encode location information, thereby resolving the contradiction between automation and information preservation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - a location determination system that uses electromagnetic field sensing (via NFC readers or other sensors detecting metal rack structures) to establish the physical position of computing devices. This intermediary translates physical location into digital location data that can then be used for meaningful IP address assignment, bridging the gap between physical deployment and network configuration
2Measurement precision
If GPS assisted location is used to provide precise location of server blades, then precise location information is obtained, but the configuration data provides no clue as to the location of server blades within the cluster
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the location information into hierarchical components: data center location, rack number, row position, and vertical position within the rack. This segmentation allows the system to capture both precise physical location and meaningful relative position information, enabling administrators to understand both where a device is precisely and where it is relative to other devices in the cluster
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds spatial dimensions to the configuration data by incorporating three-dimensional position information (rack, row, vertical level) into the IP address assignment and device configuration. This transforms the configuration data from flat, location-agnostic records to multi-dimensional spatial records that encode the physical layout of the data center
3Loss of information
If manual configuration of computing devices is performed, then location information can be accurately recorded, but the configuration process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables computing devices to self-determine their physical location automatically upon installation in the data center. Through electromagnetic field sensing and detection of rack structures, each device autonomously identifies its position (rack, row, vertical level) and uses this information for self-configuration including IP address assignment. This eliminates the need for manual location recording while maintaining high accuracy, simultaneously improving both information accuracy and configuration speed
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables precise device configuration and location-based IP address assignment, simplifying the management of computing devices in data centers by providing a clear indication of each device's location through its IP address.
Implementation Method 1
broadcasting into an electromagnetic near field from at least two surface positions of a computing device an identification of the computing device, and a position identification of a corresponding one of the surface positions
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide for a method, device and computer program product for auto-configuring computing devices disposed in a network environment based upon a relative location of each of the computing devices. The method includes broadcasting into an electromagnetic near field from at least two surface positions of a computing device an identification and position of a corresponding one of the surface positions. The method further includes receiving in a receiver disposed on at least one of the surface positions, an identification of another computing device, and a corresponding position from which the identification had been broadcast. The method yet further includes repeating the broadcasting and receiving in other computing devices and determining in each of the other computing devices a position relative to another of the devices. Finally, the method includes establishing a device configuration in each of the computing devices based upon a correspondingly determined relative position.