Vehicle OS Network API for Secure Ethernet Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle operating systems face difficulties in configuring standard layer two networks, such as Ethernet networks, for efficient communication between vehicle systems and head units, leading to complex and error-prone 'low-level' management that can compromise safety and security.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a single application programming interface (API) for network management within the vehicle operating system, allowing applications to register for network access and configure access control lists (ACLs) to authorize network access, thereby simplifying network configuration and reducing the need for hard-coded settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard layer two networks (such as Ethernet networks) are implemented for interconnecting vehicle systems, then uniform network access between vehicle systems is provided, but operating systems executed by the head unit become difficult to configure for network access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the standard layer two network and the operating system applications. This intermediary handles network configuration, address assignment, and access control, allowing applications to access networks uniformly without requiring complex low-level configuration. The intermediary translates high-level application requests into detailed network configuration actions.
2Reliability
If low-level management of networks is used, then direct control over network interfaces is achieved, but configuration becomes complicated and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the operating system automatically performs network configuration tasks. When an application requests network access, the system automatically assigns network addresses, configures interfaces, and manages connections without requiring manual low-level configuration. This reduces configuration complexity while maintaining reliable control through automated validation and management.
3Reliability
If static hard-coded network configuration is implemented for each application, then network access control is secured, but deployment flexibility and update capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static hard-coded configuration to dynamic configuration management. Network access control is maintained through runtime evaluation of application credentials and permissions, while configuration details such as network addresses and interface settings are assigned dynamically when applications request access. This allows secure access control to be maintained while enabling flexible deployment and updates without requiring static preconfiguration for each application.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle head unit comprising a memory configured to store an operating system, and one or more processors may be configured to perform various aspects of the techniques. The one or more processors may obtain an indication of one or more vehicle networks, and execute the operating system that presents a single application programming interface that provides function calls by which to configure the one or more vehicle networks within the operating system. The one or more processors may also configure, via the single application programming interface, one or more network interfaces for the one or more vehicle networks in the operating system by which one or more applications, executing in an application space presented by the operating system, interface with the one or more vehicle networks.