SNMP Test Mode for Read-Only Variable Access Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Testing exception handling processes for read-only object variables in computing devices managed by SNMP is challenging, as it often requires physical manipulation that may damage the device and involves logistical complexities with specialized software.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a test mode of operation in computing devices that allows read-only object variables to be changed using SNMP commands, eliminating the need for physical changes and specialized software, enabling simulation of non-desirable values without risking device damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If physical manipulation is used to change read-only object variables to test exception handling, then exception handling processes can be tested, but the computing device may be damaged and specialized software is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveexception handling process testingVSAvoiddevice damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a test mode that dynamically changes the access characteristics of object variables. When test mode is activated, read-only object variables become modifiable through SNMP commands, allowing exception handling to be tested without physical manipulation. The system transitions between normal operation mode (where variables are read-only) and test mode (where variables can be modified), enabling safe testing of exception handling processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameters of the computing device by introducing a test mode flag that modifies the access control parameters of object variables. When the test mode parameter is set, the system allows SET requests to modify object variables that would normally be read-only. This parameter change enables testing of exception handling without requiring physical manipulation or specialized software.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If physical manipulation is used to change read-only object variables, then exception handling can be tested, but logistical complexities and specialized software are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveexception handling process testingVSAvoidtesting process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the SNMP agent universally functional by enabling it to handle both normal operation and test mode through the same interface. The test mode feature is integrated into the existing SNMP agent, allowing standard SNMP commands to modify object variables when test mode is active. This eliminates the need for specialized testing software and simplifies the testing process to use standard network management protocols.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The computing device provides self-service testing capabilities by including test mode functionality directly in the SNMP agent. The device can be tested using standard SNMP commands from a management station without requiring external specialized software or complex testing infrastructure. The system serves its own testing needs through the integrated test mode feature.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10255154B1Implementing a test mode of operation in a computing device for simple network management protocol

Publication Date: 2019.04.09 LOCKHEED MARTIN CORP

AI summary

Mechanisms for implementing a test mode of operation in a computing device are disclosed. A first request to set a read-only object variable maintained by the computing device to a first value is received. It is determined that a current mode of operation of a plurality of different modes of operation is a test mode of operation. Based on determining that the current mode of operation is the test mode of operation, the read-only object variable is set to the first value.