Peer-to-Peer Configuration for Network-Enabled Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Configuring network-enabled devices, such as UPSs and meters, is inefficient due to reliance on front panel settings, limited internet access for updates, and software updates that require frequent changes and lag development cycles.
Innovation Solution
Network-enabled devices can discover and obtain configuration parameters from peer devices, using XML formatted files, to configure and update themselves, enabling peer-to-peer configuration and firmware exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If devices are configured using front panel or software package, then configuration can be performed, but configuration time increases significantly when number of devices becomes excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements peer-to-peer configuration where existing devices act as templates. Configuration parameters from one device are copied to peer devices through automatic discovery and configuration transfer, eliminating manual reconfiguration of each device and dramatically reducing configuration time for multiple devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration actions by having devices automatically discover peers and transfer configuration parameters before full deployment. This preliminary automatic configuration reduces the time required for configuring excessive numbers of devices by pre-establishing configuration templates and relationships
2Extent of automation
If Internet is used for automatic updates, then firmware updates can be automated, but local networks without Internet access cannot determine if configuration or firmware is out of date
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces peer devices as intermediaries that store and share configuration parameters and firmware locally within the network. Devices query peer devices for update information instead of requiring direct Internet access, enabling automatic update detection and transfer in isolated local networks
Solution Approach 2:
The system makes devices universally functional by enabling them to serve multiple roles: as configuration sources, as update repositories, and as peer communicators. This multi-functionality allows the same device architecture to operate effectively whether connected to Internet or isolated in local networks
3Ease of operation
If software package is used for configuration, then devices can be configured remotely, but keeping software up-to-date requires significant development time and continual updating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables devices to self-configure by automatically discovering peer devices and transferring configuration parameters without requiring external software packages. This self-service approach eliminates the need for continual software updates and reduces development maintenance complexity while maintaining remote configuration capability
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices and computer program products are provided for configuring network-enabled devices. One or more additional network-enabled devices containing configuration parameters relevant to a first network-enabled device are discovered. The relevant configuration parameters are obtained from the one or more additional network-enabled device by the first network-enabled device and the first network-enabled device is configured using the obtained configuration parameters.