Protocol Conversion Apparatus for OpenFlow Sensor Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The OpenFlow technology is unable to analyze and transfer sensor data from networks using different communication standards, such as ZigBee and Wi-SUN, due to standard differences, limiting its application in sensor networks.
Innovation Solution
A communication apparatus that converts data frames from non-Ethernet formats into Ethernet formats, enabling OpenFlow control for transfer processing based on predetermined rules, thereby facilitating data transfer between networks with different communication schemes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If OpenFlow technology is used for data transfer control, then transfer efficiency and flexibility are improved, but compatibility with non-Ethernet networks (such as ZigBee and Wi-SUN sensor networks) deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protocol conversion apparatus as an intermediary device between sensor networks and OpenFlow networks. This apparatus converts data frames from sensor network protocols (ZigBee, Wi-SUN) into Ethernet frames that OpenFlow can process, enabling compatibility without modifying the OpenFlow core technology. The conversion apparatus acts as a bridge that translates between incompatible protocols, allowing sensor data to be transferred efficiently through OpenFlow while maintaining support for diverse network types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If protocol conversion is implemented through application software, then adaptability to different networks is improved, but processing overhead and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces software-based protocol conversion with hardware-based conversion in the protocol conversion apparatus. By implementing conversion functions in hardware (such as dedicated conversion circuits or ASICs), the system achieves protocol translation with minimal processing overhead and without requiring complex software applications. This hardware substitution maintains high adaptability to different sensor network protocols while significantly reducing processing complexity and improving real-time conversion capability.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method is disclosed in which a frame format of a data frame received from a network conforming to a first communication scheme is converted into a frame format of a second network conforming to a different communication scheme, and the data frame is transferred according to a transfer rule applicable to the data frame of the frame format. A communication apparatus converts a frame format of a data frame received from a first network into a frame format conforming to a second communication scheme. Further, the communication apparatus performs transfer processing of the converted data frame according to a transfer rule that includes a pair of a transfer condition of the data frame and transfer processing, which is executed in a case where the transfer condition applicable to the data frame conforming to the second communication scheme, is satisfied.