Virtual Service Simulation for Network Device Testing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current network device connection systems are complex and time-consuming, especially when simulating devices, as they require reconfiguration and can generate numerous error messages, making it difficult for IT administrators to manage and test network setups effectively.

Innovation Solution

A system that allows devices to respond with virtual services instead of actual services, enabling simulation and emulation of devices within a network, which simplifies complex network setups and allows IT administrators to test or process information manually, without requiring changes to existing operating systems or infrastructure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If devices respond with actual services information in current network systems, then network devices can access real service information, but the process becomes time-consuming and generates numerous error messages requiring manual reconfiguration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice information accuracyVSAvoidIT administrator time for reconfiguration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates virtual service information that copies the structure and appearance of actual service information. Network devices receive and process this virtual copy instead of actual service data, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration while maintaining information accuracy for testing and simulation purposes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a service information translation mechanism that acts as an intermediary between actual devices and network devices. This intermediary converts actual service information into virtual service information, allowing network devices to operate with simulated data without direct device interaction, thus reducing errors and reconfiguration needs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If devices provide actual service information, then network devices can access real functionality, but simulation and testing of complex networks becomes difficult without affecting existing systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork simulation capabilityVSAvoidnetwork configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments service information into two distinct types: actual service information from real devices and virtual service information for simulation. This segmentation allows network devices to operate in different modes (testing with virtual info, production with actual info) without mixing concerns, thereby reducing overall system complexity while enhancing simulation capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter state of service information by transforming actual service data into virtual service representations. This parameter transformation enables the same network devices to handle both real and simulated scenarios by adjusting whether they process actual or virtual service information, increasing adaptability without adding complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If devices send actual service information, then network devices can access real device capabilities, but additional applications or operating system changes are required to implement simulation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevirtual service emulationVSAvoidsystem modification requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes network devices universal by enabling them to process both actual and virtual service information through the same existing interfaces and protocols. This multi-functionality allows a single network device to operate in production mode with real devices or testing mode with virtual services, eliminating the need for separate applications or OS modifications

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

Data Source

PatentUS9565058B2Method of connecting a device to a network, a device connecting system, and a program
Publication Date: 2017.02.07 CANON EURPOPA NV
  • US9565058B2 patent drawing
  • US9565058B2 patent drawing
  • US9565058B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present subject matter is generally related to a method of connecting a device to a network, a device connecting system and a device connecting program. A network device or a device responding on a device service discovery request within a network with information of a virtual service on the device, which may be different from the actual capabilities and functions of the device.