XML Server for Embedded Device Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data communications networks lack effective methods for monitoring and controlling the operation of embedded devices such as access points and routers, particularly in large and complex systems, where system administrators need real-time monitoring and control capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing an XML server at embedded devices to provide operational data to a computer with a user interface, allowing graphical display and XML command messaging for controlling device operations, enabling real-time monitoring and management through a browser program.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional monitoring methods are used for embedded devices, then device operation can be monitored, but real-time monitoring and control capabilities are insufficient in large and complex networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network monitoring function by deploying lightweight XML server components at individual embedded devices (routers, access points) rather than using centralized monitoring. Each device independently publishes its operational data, enabling distributed real-time monitoring that scales to large networks without overwhelming central control points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces XML as an intermediary data format that standardizes communication between diverse embedded devices and monitoring systems. The XML server at each device translates proprietary data formats into universal XML messages, enabling seamless integration and real-time monitoring across heterogeneous network equipment without complex device-specific interfaces.
2Measurement precision
If detailed operational data is collected from embedded devices, then monitoring precision is improved, but data transmission and processing overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the format and structure of operational data by encoding it in XML with standardized elements and attributes. This parameter change allows precise representation of device state (traffic rates, error counts, configuration) while enabling efficient parsing and processing by XML-aware clients, reducing the computational overhead compared to proprietary binary formats.
3Productivity
If real-time control capabilities are implemented, then network management efficiency is improved, but system complexity and implementation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal XML-based control interface that can manage multiple types of embedded devices (routers, access points, switches) through a single standardized protocol. The XML server at each device provides consistent command and control functionality, allowing network administrators to manage heterogeneous equipment uniformly, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Embedded devices in a data communications network are arranged to formulate XML data messages containing data representing the operation of the embedded device. The software in the embedded device acts as a server that can be accessed over the network by a browser program in a computer to monitor device operation. The browser program can formulate XML command messages which are sent over the network to the embedded device to control its operation.