Network Platform Port Emulation for Remote Sensor Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Testing network platforms such as switches and routers is challenging due to the need for physical connection of sensor devices, which is difficult in inaccessible locations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a network platform with a sensor module that executes sensor applications and emulates ports, allowing remote testing by downloading and executing sensor applications without physical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a technician physically connects a sensor device to a network platform port, then testing can be performed, but the technician must be physically present at the network platform location which may be inaccessible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of a physical sensor device that runs as software on the network platform itself. This sensor application replicates the functionality of a physical sensor without requiring actual hardware connection, allowing remote testing while eliminating the need for technician physical presence at the network platform location
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical connection system with a software-based virtual connection. Instead of physically plugging a sensor device into a network port, the system uses a sensor application that communicates with the network platform through software interfaces, substituting physical hardware interaction with digital software execution
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensor applications are executed on the network platform, then remote testing is enabled, but processing resources must be allocated which could affect the operating system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network platform's processing module into separate allocation portions: a first portion dedicated to the operating system and network operations, and a second portion allocated to sensor applications. This segmentation ensures that sensor applications run with isolated resources that cannot interfere with operating system stability, enabling remote testing while maintaining system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sensor module as an intermediary layer between the sensor applications and the operating system. This sensor module manages the allocation and execution of sensor applications, acting as a buffer that prevents direct interference between sensor processes and core system operations, thus maintaining system stability while enabling remote testing functionality
Data Source
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AI summary
In an implementation, a method is provided. The method may include: receiving a sensor application (310) by a network platform (110), the network platform comprising a processing module (130) and a plurality of ports (115), and wherein a first portion (140) of the processing module is allocated to an operating system (160) of the network platform; allocating a second portion (150) of the processing module to the sensor application (173) by the network platform (320); executing the sensor application by the second portion of the processing module (330); emulating a port of the plurality of ports by the second portion of the processing module (340); and allowing the executed sensor application to interact with the operating system through the emulated port (350).