Pole Network Device Sensor Security Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Smart city network components, such as poles with integrated communication devices, are vulnerable to cyber-attacks due to insecure data communication between remote network components and peripherals, with existing security measures being costly and inefficient, especially in remote areas.

Innovation Solution

A network component device is integrated into the pole's housing, featuring a sensor and control unit that detects changes in sensor signals to alert remote network components of potential attacks, ensuring secure data communication and protecting sensitive information without requiring structural changes or additional wiring, using a sensor system that can detect physical properties like light or movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If mechanical latches and locks or sensors on the pole door are used to secure the pole, then the pole's physical security is improved, but the cost increases and the solution becomes inefficient for remote areas

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepole securityVSAvoidcost and efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical security systems (latches, locks, physical sensors on pole doors) with an electronic monitoring system integrated into the network device. The sensor detects physical conditions (movement, opening) and the control unit monitors these signals electronically, substituting mechanical security with an electronic surveillance approach that is more cost-effective and suitable for remote deployment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a sensor as an intermediary element that detects physical conditions and converts them into sensor signals for electronic processing. This intermediary bridges the physical security domain and the electronic monitoring domain, enabling remote surveillance without requiring complex mechanical security systems at each pole location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If existing poles are replaced or structurally modified to provide additional security functionality, then security capabilities are improved, but infrastructure changes and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata communication securityVSAvoidinfrastructure changes
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges security monitoring functionality with the existing network device housed in the pole. The sensor, control unit with sensor signal port, and data connections are integrated into the same housing as the network component, combining security monitoring with network operations in a single unified system without requiring separate infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the network device multi-functional by adding sensor signal reception capability to its existing data forwarding function. The control unit simultaneously performs network data routing and security monitoring by evaluating sensor signals, eliminating the need for separate dedicated security devices and infrastructure modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If extensive wiring work is performed in the pole to enhance security functionality, then security monitoring capability is improved, but the effort and complexity of installation increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattack detection capabilityVSAvoidwiring work effort
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the existing infrastructure to serve dual purposes. The power supply and data connections already present for the network device are also used to power and communicate with the security monitoring functions. The sensor connects to the existing control unit through available communication channels, allowing the system to monitor itself without requiring additional external wiring or power infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11743998B2Device within a pole and method
Publication Date: 2023.08.29 CGF COUNSEL GRP FRANKFURT AG
  • US11743998B2 patent drawing
  • US11743998B2 patent drawing
  • US11743998B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device, for example a coupling element in a network, such as a network switch or network router, which is arranged operably in a pole by means of its housing. Further, methods for putting the device into operation and methods for operating a peripheral using the device, as well as a computer program product for carrying out various methods.