DE202006010189U1 - Router for remote access, has modem configuration unit to execute recognition of connection type supported by inserted modem units and transfers sequence of instruction that is specific for type to inserted units based on recognized type - Google Patents

Abstract

The router has a slot in which modem units that support different connection types are inserted for the realization of the types. The modem units establish a connection to a computer system (2) of a user. A modem configuration unit (30) executes a recognition of the connection type supported by the inserted units and transfers a sequence of instruction that is specific for the type to the inserted units based on the recognized type.

Description

The The invention relates to a router for connecting one or more external devices, and a modem configuration unit for a router.

The Remote maintenance of decentralized machines and systems is gaining more and more important to elaborate and expensive service to minimize. Industrial modems with appropriate technology are on the Market to get from many manufacturers for years. such However, modems are limited in their ability to meet the evolving requirements to fulfill, because only point-to-point (PPP) connections can be established with them. This type of communication leads high costs when connections are established internationally should. When data over the web should be replaced, a router must take over the communication.

It It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a router put in a variety of communication environments can be used.

Of the inventive router has an interface for connecting one or more external ones devices on and is designed to transfer data between the connected devices and to a remote system of a user. The router according to the invention includes a slot for a modem unit, in the for the realization of different types of connection optionally various modem units are pluggable, each of which is different Support connection types. About that In addition, the router includes a plugged into the slot modem unit via the connect to the user's remote system and a modem configuration unit designed to do so is a recognition of the type of connection supported by the inserted modem unit perform and depending of the recognized connection type is one specific to the connection type Sequence of commands to the inserted modem unit.

at the solution according to the invention can a universally applicable router basic unit to the respective conditions of use be adjusted. By selecting a modem unit that has the desired connection type supported (for example Analog, ISDN, DSL, GSM / GPRS, EDGE, UMTS) and inserting the modem unit in the for this provided slot of the router base unit creates a router that the desired Connection type supported. The modem configuration unit of the router automatically detects the connection type supported by the inserted modem unit. The sequence transmitted to the modem unit Commands are automatically adjusted by the configuration unit. The user therefore only needs to have the desired modem unit in the Insert jack of the router base unit and needs otherwise nothing to worry about. This "plug-and-play" functionality allows for a straightforward and cost-effective Adaptation of a universal router basic unit to the each existing communication infrastructure.

If For example, at a production site only a GSM dial-up node for Establishment of an Internet connection is available, the router according to the invention easily made operational by installing a GSM modem unit and exchange data with other routers, for example via a Analog or ISDN connection to the Internet are connected. With the router according to the invention can therefore be over different transmission systems build data connections between widely spaced devices, without the technician on site at the installation of the technical details of each modem must take care. For example the configuration and dial-in parameters of the respective modem module be set automatically by the modem configuration unit, decrease the cost of the installation and the technical support. Furthermore reduces the storage costs, because only one modem base unit must be kept ready.

According to one advantageous embodiment invention, the modem configuration unit is designed to when starting up the router, a connection type specific Sequence of commands to the inserted modem unit. For example, you can be set at boot-up operating parameter of the modem, such as. the data transfer rate.

at an advantageous embodiment For example, the types of connections supported by a modem unit include one or more of the following types of connection: analog, ISDN, DSL, GSM / GPRS, EDGE, UMTS. With EDGE (Enhanced Data for GSM Evolution) it is an evolutionary evolution of GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications). Depending on the modem unit used, the router according to the invention supports either wireless or wired connections to a service provider.

Like one further advantageous embodiment is the plugged into the jack modem unit from a selected from the following modem units: an analogue modem unit, an ISDN modem unit, a DSL modem unit, a GSM modem unit, an EDGE modem unit, a UMTS modem unit.

It is advantageous when the modem configuration unit is for discovery the connection type supported by the inserted modem unit Query command sent to the modem unit. The modem unit transmits then an identifier to the modem configuration unit, from the shows which connection type or which connection types of the modem unit supports become.

According to one preferred embodiment of the invention chooses the modem configuration unit the sequence of transmitted to the modem unit Commands according to the recognized connection type. Depending on the connection type are different commands for configuring the modem and / or to establish a connection required. The modem configuration unit dials automatically one for the particular type of connection is a suitable sequence of commands.

According to one further advantageous embodiment the modem configuration unit is designed depending on of the recognized connection type is one specific to the connection type Sequence of AT commands to the inserted modem unit.

It is beneficial if the router is a firewall entity which filters the data received from the modem before it Data is forwarded to one of the connected devices.

Besides that is it's an advantage if the router includes an embedded web server, with which the router is configurable from the user's remote system is. For example, a user may be from his remote system from accessing the pages provided by the web server For example, retrieve current operating parameters and / or the Configuration of the router to change.

According to one preferred embodiment the web server is designed to be that of the inserted modem unit supported Request connection type from the user. For example, the Users are prompted by an input mask, a service provider or specify a dial-in node of a service provider. From this Information may then be infer what type of connection the inserted modem supported.

It is an advantage if the slot is one inside of the housing the router arranged jack for receiving a replaceable Modem unit is acting. To install a modem unit, the modem unit is plugged into the jack plugged in, then the router case is closed. In this way, the modem unit is protected by the router chassis.

According to one advantageous embodiment is the router designed for at least one of: remote access, remote maintenance, remote diagnostics of connected devices, Configuration of connected devices, query the status of connected devices, Reading out parameters of the connected devices, transfer of software the connected devices, Updating the software on the connected devices. Especially are the routers according to the invention designed to equip plants, machines and computer systems at different to network with each other far away from each other. A communication between different routers is also then possible, if the different routers over different Connection types are connected to the Internet. For example can be a first router via GSM be tethered while another router over an ISDN connection exchanges data with the Internet.

advantageously, is the interface for connecting the external equipment around an Ethernet interface. It is beneficial when the data exchange between the router and the connected devices via the Ethernet. at a preferred embodiment An external device is connected to the interface. According to one Another preferred Ausfüh tion form is to the interface a local network for the connection of two or more external devices connected.

According to one preferred embodiment In accordance with the invention, the router is adapted from the modem unit forward received data to those connected devices, for the the data is determined. For example, the router may be incoming Data packets in dependence from its destination address to one or more of the connected equipment to distribute.

According to one advantageous embodiment the router is designed to receive data from the connected devices via the Modem unit to forward the remote system of the user.

According to one further advantageous embodiment instructs the router additionally a serial port for connecting one or more external devices on, with which the router over the protocol "Serial-over-Ethernet" exchanges data. This has the advantage that even devices that do not have an Ethernet interface, can be connected to the router.

at an advantageous embodiment the router is designed to establish an internet connection and so access of the remote system of the user on the connected devices to enable. When both the router and the user's system connect to the Internet Data between the router and the user's system in both directions be replaced. With the help of encryption techniques can be a secure connection between the user's system and the Build router.

It is advantageous if the router is designed to be between the Router and the user's remote system a virtual private Network within which encrypted data transfer become. about a virtual private network (VPN) can be machines and equipment, which are set up in different parts of the world, with help the router according to the invention be networked with each other. For example, data can be from the various Locations over the Internet merged into one central system and linked together become. It can for each of the routers the type of connection over which this router connects to the Internet is connected, individually chosen freely. Thus, a Data exchange via different transmission systems away.

According to one another preferred embodiment the router is designed to handle one of the predefined events Dial the modem unit into a given dial-in node and to initiate a setup of an internet connection. For example can be provided that a router on the occurrence of predefined states especially with fault conditions, a Establish connection to a remote control system. alternative or additionally would it be for example, possible that at certain predefined times a connection is built into a control system.

According to one another preferred embodiment The router is designed to answer a call from a remote User out a dial-up of the modem unit in a given dial-in node and to initiate a setup of an internet connection. With help This so-called "call-back" functionality, a user can by means of a Call a remote router to dial this router to initiate the internet, leaving a data connection between the system of the user and the router can be established. Next the pure caller ID ("Ring Detection") can be the callback functionality, for example also include a verification of the caller's number.

According to one advantageous embodiment the router is designed to be between the modem unit and the remote system of the user to establish a point-to-point connection. at this embodiment the invention, the user can from his system at a Dial in router and so a direct point-to-point connection between the system of the user and the router.

The inventive modem configuration unit for one Router with replaceable modem unit is designed to be a Detect the type of connection supported by the modem unit and dependent on of the connection type one for the connection type to perform specific configuration of the modem unit.

following the invention will be described with reference to several in the drawing Further embodiments described.

1 Figure 4 illustrates how an Internet connection can be established between a user's system and the router;

2 illustrates how the router according to the invention can be connected to the Internet via the air interface;

3 shows a point-to-point connection between the user's system and the router; and

4 shows the motherboard of the router, which can be optionally equipped with various modem units.

In 1 is a router according to the invention 1 illustrated a data connection between a computer system 2 a user and one or more to the router 1 connected devices or machines 3 - 6 allows. Data packets coming from the computer system 2 of the user become at least one of the devices 3 - 6 switched, and vice versa, data packets from the connected devices 3 - 6 to the computer system 2 be switched through. At the devices 3 - 6 they may be, for example, machine tools, printing machines, production plants, etc., for the purpose of remote diagnostics and remote maintenance via the router 1 with a computer system 2 are connected and current operating parameters and information about malfunctions in the operation of this computer system 2 to transfer. From the computer system 2 can output configuration and control data to the devices 3 - 6 be transmitted. In addition, updated software versions can also be accessed via the router 1 to the devices 3 - 6 transfer. In doing so, the computer system 2 far away from the devices to be monitored 3 - 6 be localized. In the central computer system 2 For example, operational data from production facilities in all parts of the world can be merged. By accessing the router 1 For example, a user can retrieve current operating parameters from remotely located machines and devices from anywhere in the world.

To connect the respective devices and machines is the router 1 with an Ethernet interface 7 equipped, which can be implemented as an RJ45 interface, for example. To the Ethernet interface 7 can be either a single device or a single machine or a local network 8th with a variety of devices 4 - 6 be connected. Some - especially older - devices or machines can only exchange data via a serial interface. To connect such devices is the router 1 additionally with a serial interface 9 equipped with, for example, an RS-232 interface. Via the serial interface 9 can the router 1 Data in the "Serial over Ethernet" protocol with the connected device 3 change.

To establish a data connection between the computer system 2 and the router 1 is the router 1 with a replaceable modem unit 10 equipped in an internal slot of the router 1 is inserted. The interchangeable modem unit 10 supports one or more of the following connection types: Analog, ISDN, DSL, GSM / GPRS, EDGE, UMTS. By selecting a suitable modem unit 10 and plugging this modem unit into the internal slot of the router 1 can be from the router 1 supported connection type. That way, the router can 1 adapted to local conditions.

The data connection between the computer system 2 and the router 1 can be realized either as a point-to-point connection (PPP connection) or as an Internet connection. At the in 1 the embodiment shown is the data connection between the computer system 2 and the router 1 an internet connection. To establish the Internet connection, the modem unit dials 10 of the router via a dial-in node 11 of a local service provider in the Internet 12 one. In the case of an analogue, ISDN or DSL modem, the dial-in takes place via a telephone line which is connected to the router via a suitable plug-in connection (eg RJ11 or RJ45) 1 is connected. The computer system 2 also dials via a local dial-in node 13 in the internet 12 one. Subsequently, between the computer system 2 and the router 1 Data is exchanged. The exchange of data between the computer system 2 and the router 1 can also be encrypted if required; For example, a virtual private network (VPN) may exist between the computer system 2 and the router 1 being constructed.

About another router 14 can use additional devices 15 be connected. The router 14 can also be through a local dial-in node 16 dial into the internet and then data with the computer system 2 change. With the help of the central computer system 2 machines and devices can be monitored and controlled at different locations. For example, the computer system 2 An overview of the operating parameters of the machines installed at the various locations and linked together.

The connection of the router 1 to the internet 12 does not have to be maintained permanently. In one embodiment of the router 1 builds the modem unit 10 automatically on the occurrence of predefined events, a connection to the Internet, for example, in certain operating conditions, or at predetermined times. In particular, when malfunction occurs, the modem unit 10 automatically connect to the Internet. In addition, in case of fault conditions a notification the user by e-mail and / or SMS.

Alternatively, the router 1 from the computer system 2 be prompted to dial into the Internet. To do this, the computer system chooses 2 a default phone number of the router 1 at. The router 1 recognizes the call ("ring-detection"), also checks the identity of the caller (optional), and then dials through the dial-in node 11 on the internet.

With the aid of such a call-back method, a user can be informed by the computer system 2 from a dial-up of the different routers 1 . 14 in the internet 12 initiate an Internet connection to the routers at any time.

At the in 2 The embodiment shown is the router 1 via a wireless connection to the internet 12 connected. This is the router 1 with a radio modem 17 and an antenna 18 fitted. In the radio modem 17 it may be, for example, a GSM / GPRS modem, an EDGE modem or a UMTS modem. The radio modem 17 provides a wireless connection to a radio dial-in node 19 an Internet provider and builds a wireless connection to the Internet 12 on. After the computer system 2 via the dial-in node 13 in the internet 12 can have data between the computer system 2 and the router 1 be exchanged in both directions.

3 shows the construction of a point-to-point connection (PPP connection) as another way to establish a data connection between the computer system 2 and the router 1 , Such a point-to-point connection can be made by the computer system 2 at any time by selecting a router 1 assigned phone number are established. However, the establishment of a point-to-point connection is only possible if it is the modem unit 20 of the router 1 is an analog modem, an ISDN modem or a DSL modem. If the router 1 equipped with a radio modem, the establishment of a PPP connection is not possible.

The in 1 shown router 1 is equipped with a slot in which either modem units for different types of connections can be inserted, for example analog, ISDN, DSL, GSM / GPRS, EDGE and UMTS modems. Due to this modular principle, a router base unit can be equipped with different modem units as needed, with each modem unit supporting at least one of various possible connection types (analog, ISDN, DSL, GSM / GPRS, EDGE, UMTS). In this way, a router base unit can be equipped with a suitable transmission system as needed and depending on the local conditions. For example, if only one analogue dial-in node is available at the location where a machine is to be installed, then an analogue modem will be plugged into the internal slot of the router base unit. Nonetheless, routers equipped with different transmission systems can be interconnected into a single virtual private network (VPN) so that communication can take place across different transmission systems.

This modular principle is in 4 exemplified. A router base unit 21 is with a slot 22 equipped, in the optional different modem units can be plugged in, for example, a GSM / GPRS modem unit 23 , or an ISDN modem unit 24 In addition, the router base unit includes 21 an Ethernet connection 25 For connecting one or more devices, as well as an RS-232 port 26 for the serial connection of devices. To realize the various possibilities of connection to the Internet, the router base unit comprises an RJ11 interface 27 for an analog telephone line and an RJ45 interface 28 for an ISDN connection. To support a wireless Internet connection is the router base unit 21 with an antenna and a SIM card reader 29 fitted.

The in 1 illustrated router according to the invention 1 includes a modem configuration unit 30 which is responsible for the automatic configuration of each in the router 1 plugged modem unit is responsible. In a preferred embodiment, the communication is between the modem configuration unit 30 and the modem unit 10 with the help of so-called "AT commands" issued by the modem configuration unit 30 to the modem unit 10 be transmitted. The term "AT command" is derived from "Attention".

In a preferred embodiment, the modem configuration unit determines 30 first of all from the inserted modem unit 10 supported connection type. This can be done, for example, by transmitting a corresponding query command to the modem unit 10 happen. For this there is an AT command "ATI"("I" stands for "Information"), which is sent to the modem unit 10 is sent to information about to get the type of modem. The information about the modem type is then received from the modem unit 10 to the modem configuration unit 30 transmitted.

The modem configuration unit 30 performs an automatic configuration of the modem unit depending on the determined connection type 10 by. This can be done, for example, by transmitting a sequence of AT commands to the modem unit 10 happen. These AT commands become dial-up and data transmission parameters of the modem unit 10 , For example, the dial-in node and the data transfer rate set. Depending on whether an analog ISDN, DSL, GSM / GPRS, EDGE or UMTS modem unit is used, a different sequence of AT commands will be sent to the modem unit 10 transmitted. The modem configuration unit 30 is responsible for the fully automatic generation of these AT commands depending on the connection type supported by the modem.

The respective modem unit 10 is at startup by the modem configuration unit 30 automatically configured. This eliminates the overhead of configuring and configuring the router 1 significantly reduced. In particular, it is possible to use different types of modem units in a modem base unit, without the technician having to deal with various types of hardware and software during assembly.

The in 1 shown router 1 also includes a routing unit 31 which are the ones from the computer system 2 received data depending on the respective IP address to one or more of the connected devices 3 - 6 forwards. In addition, the routing unit 31 responsible for data packets from the connected devices 3 - 6 to the computer system 2 forward.

The router 1 can work with a firewall functional unit 32 be equipped, which the from the Internet 12 received data packets filtered.

The router 1 can also have a web server 33 include on its HTTP pages from the computer system 2 from over the internet 12 can be accessed. By interacting with the web pages of the web server 33 the user can from the computer system 2 from the settings of the router 1 change, such as the firewall 32 to switch on and off.

In a particular embodiment of the invention, the web server asks 33 the user by means of a corresponding website, which type of connection (analog, ISDN, DSL, GSM / GPRS, EDGE, UMTS) the modem unit used 10 supported. The user gives through the computer system 2 the connection type used, and then configures the modem configuration unit 30 the modem unit 10 depending on the specified connection type.

In another embodiment of the invention, the user is on one of the web server 33 Web page requested to select a desired service provider from a given set of service providers. Based on the selected service provider, the modem configuration unit can then clearly identify which connection type from the modem unit 10 is supported. The modem configuration unit 30 then performs a configuration of the modem unit according to the supported connection type 10 by.

in the Following is a dial-in procedure for a GSM / GPRS modem. First some parameters and data paths are listed. The "+" sign respectively at the beginning of the line means that they are only comment lines is:

The actual dial-in procedure is running as follows from:

Submitting the "ATZ" command to the modem unit will change the settings of the modem set to predefined basic settings. The modem unit responds with "OK." The following command "AT +" transfers various dial-in parameters to the GSM modem unit; the modem unit confirms with "OK" The following AT-command "ATE1" switches on the so-called "local echo" This means that the one from the modem unit 10 In addition, commands and data transmitted to the dial-in node are also available modem-internally (as an echo, so to speak).

The the actual establishment of a wireless connection to the GSM node takes place by means of the AT command "ATD", where "D" stands for "dial." The command "ATD" is followed by a string "* 99 *** 1 #" representing the connection node specified. This string is called a so-called "Access Point Name "(APN) designated.

If on the other hand, an ISDN modem is used, the dialing procedure is different from. The following is a dial-in procedure for an ISDN modem. First some parameters and data paths are listed. It acts these are just comment lines:

The actual dial-in procedure is running as follows from:

With the help of the command "ATZ" the settings in the modem unit are set to default parameters.The modem unit responds with "OK". The subsequent ATB command sets the protocol, in the modem unit communicates with the service provider. Thus, for example, with "ATB0" the protocol V 110 is selected, "ATB1" stands for the protocol V 120, etc. The subsequent command "ATD", followed by the telephone number "0193670", causes a dial-up of the ISDN modem at the dial-in node of Internet provider.

Claims (25)

A router ( 1 ), which has - an interface ( 7 . 9 ) for connecting one or more external devices ( 3 - 6 ), - whereby the router ( 1 ) is designed to transfer data between the connected devices ( 3 - 6 ) and a remote system ( 2 ) of a user, characterized by - a slot ( 22 ) for a modem unit in which different modem units ( 23 . 24 ), which each support different types of connection, - a plugged into the slot modem unit ( 23 . 24 ), through which a connection to the remote system ( 2 ) of the user, - a modem configuration unit ( 30 ), which is designed to detect from the inserted modem unit ( 23 . 24 ) and, depending on the type of connection detected, a connection type specific sequence of commands to the inserted modem unit ( 23 . 24 ). Router according to claim 1, characterized in that the modem configuration unit is designed to be at startup of the router one for the connection type specific sequence of commands to the inserted Modem unit to transmit. Router according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized that the connection types supported by a modem unit have a or more of the following types of connection: analog, ISDN, DSL, GSM / GPRS, EDGE, UMTS. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the plugged into the jack modem unit is selected from one of the following modem units: an analog modem unit, an ISDN modem unit, a DSL modem unit, a GSM modem unit, an EDGE modem unit, a UMTS modem unit. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the modem configuration unit for determining the connection type supported by the inserted modem unit Query command sent to the modem unit. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the modem configuration unit is the sequence transmitted to the modem unit Selects commands according to the recognized connection type. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the modem configuration unit is designed for this purpose is, in dependence of the recognized connection type is one specific to the connection type Sequence of AT commands to the inserted modem unit. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the router comprises a firewall functional unit, which filters the data received by the modem before this data to one of the connected devices to get redirected. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the router comprises an integrated web server, with which the router is configurable from the remote system of the user. Router according to claim 9, characterized that the web server is designed to be that of the inserted one Modem unit supported Request connection type from the user. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is at the slot to a disposed within the housing of the router jack for receiving a exchangeable modem unit. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the router is designed for at least one of - remote access, Remote maintenance, remote diagnostics of connected devices, - Configuration of the connected Equipment, - query the status of the connected devices, - Reading parameters of the connected devices, - Transfer from software to the connected devices, - Updating the software on the connected devices. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that it is at the interface to the port the external devices is an Ethernet interface. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the data exchange between the router and the connected devices via the Ethernet takes place. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an external device is connected to the interface is. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that a local network to the interface to Connection of two or more external devices is connected. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the router is adapted from the modem unit forward received data to those connected devices, for the the data is determined. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the router is adapted to receive data from the connected devices via the Modem unit to forward the remote system of the user. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the router additionally has a serial interface for connection of one or more external devices, with which the router over the protocol "Serial-over-Ethernet" exchanges data. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the router is adapted to an internet connection and thus access the remote system of the user the connected devices to enable. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the router is adapted to be between the Router and the user's remote system a virtual private Network within which encrypted data transfer become. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the router is designed to be predefined Events a dial-up of the modem unit in a predetermined To initiate dial-up nodes and a setup of an internet connection. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the router is adapted to a call a remote user out a dial-up of the modem unit in one given dial-in node and a structure of an Internet connection to induce. Router according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the router is adapted to be between the Modem unit and the user's remote system a point-to-point Establish connection. A modem configuration unit ( 30 ) for a router, which has a replaceable modem unit ( 23 . 24 ), through which a connection to a remote system ( 2 ) of a user can be produced, - wherein the modem configuration unit ( 30 ) is designed to detect from the modem unit ( 23 . 24 ) and, depending on the connection type, one for the Connection type specific configuration of the modem unit ( 23 . 24 ).