Position Relay for Automatic Apparatus Location on Legacy Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network systems, particularly in factory environments, struggle to automatically and accurately associate network addresses with physical positions of apparatuses due to the lack of support for Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) in existing switching hubs, leading to difficulties in managing and updating position information, which is crucial for rapid response to cyber threats and apparatus location changes.
Innovation Solution
A position information relay device is introduced between network devices and apparatuses, recognizing and relaying physical position information through existing communication packets without requiring new protocols or software installations, using sensors and existing network infrastructure to maintain availability and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If SNMP protocol is used to acquire position information, then position information can be automatically acquired, but existing switching hubs that do not support SNMP cannot be utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a position information relay device as an intermediary between the management device and existing network devices. This relay device does not require SNMP support from the switching hub, instead using ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) which is universally supported. The relay device acts as a mediator that translates position information acquisition requests into ARP-based communication, enabling automatic position tracking without requiring modifications to existing network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The position information relay device utilizes universally supported network protocols (ARP, Ethernet frames) rather than relying on proprietary or less universal protocols like SNMP. By using standard ARP requests and responses that all network devices understand, the system achieves broad compatibility while maintaining the ability to automatically acquire position information from any connected apparatus.
2Measurement precision
If position information relay device is introduced, then position information can be recognized and relayed, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The position information relay device operates autonomously by utilizing existing network traffic and ARP protocols. It automatically captures position information from ARP requests and responses without requiring manual configuration or intervention. The device self-manages position information collection, processing, and relay functions using standard network operations, minimizing the need for additional complexity in network management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into the position information relay device: position information collection, data processing, relay communication, and network management. By merging these functions into a single device that leverages existing network infrastructure, the system avoids the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall network complexity while maintaining comprehensive position tracking capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
A position information relay device (31) interposed between a network device and an apparatus includes: a position information recognizer (311) which recognizes position information of the apparatus; and a position information relay (312) which receives a communication packet transmitted by the apparatus to the network device, includes the position information in the communication packet received, and transmits the communication packet including the position information to the network device.