Distributed Object Framework
The acronym DOF (Distributed Object Framework) refers to a technology that allows many different products, using many different standards, to work together and share information effortlessly across many different networks (e.g., LAN, WAN, Intranet, Internet—any type of network or mesh). At its core, DOF technology was designed to network embedded devices, whether simple or complex. However, to support advanced networking functions for those devices, DOF technology has also evolved into a server technology, appropriate for services that expand the functionality of networked devices, whether those services reside on your own physical servers, or you are taking advantage of advanced cloud technology, such as Amazon Web Services. Ultimately, DOF technology has the flexibility to enhance all products, from the simplest resource-constrained device to the most powerful of computer networks.
How Does DOF Technology Work?
- DOF technology includes object-oriented networking. This means devices of almost any type can be networked—securely, with little configuration. We accomplish this through a few simple concepts and “tools.”
- Actor: An actor is a universal primitive that can send or receive messages, make local decisions, create more actors, and determine how to respond to consecutive messages.
- DOF Object: In the DOF Object Model, a DOF object can be anything that provides the functionality defined in a DOF interface. All DOF objects are providers.
- Requestor: A requestor is a node on a DOF network that requests functionality from a provider.
- Provider: A provider is a node on a DOF network that provides functionality defined in one or more DOF interfaces.
- DOF Interface: A DOF interface defines the items of functionality that a DOF object must provide. Interface items of functionality are properties, methods, events, and exceptions.
- Node: A node is simply a connection point: either redistributing communication (data) or acting as a communication endpoint.
- Service: A service is a type of object that can provide centralized functionality to other objects.
- Security: By leveraging common libraries and components, using DOF technology makes security easier to understand, manage, and integrate into products.
Consider this example: if a DOF-enabled device needs a service (or information), it simply sends a request across the network. A provider will respond, even if it exists in another node or has to cross networks. The two devices can create a path for as long as they require, transferring secure information across any distance (to them, it will seem as if they are sitting right next to each other talking. They could even be in a noisy room and would be able to hear each other perfectly). The required data flows between requestor and provider, regardless of any other network activity. The inherent security of DOF protects the communication, and its multiple protocols allow many different types of communication to take place.
How Can DOF Technology Benefit My Business?
DOF technology is perfect for companies that produce different products in different divisions and want to unify those products so they work together. DOF technology can help eliminate obstacles to product unification by doing the following:
- Reducing cost. When all products adopt DOF solutions, future implementations are already prepared because current products are now more flexible and can accept future product roll-outs easily.
- Supporting multiple standards. You can continue to work with existing industry standards with the assurance that you’ll be ready to work with future standards. DOF technology is not proprietary.
- Future-proofing products. As technology advances, so does DOF technology. It was designed to keep pace with the latest product offerings from cutting-edge industries. This benefits your business because existing installations can easily adopt new installations without costly equipment replacements or upgrades.