IL303632A - Network node for a sensor system, sensor system, method and computer program - Google Patents

Description

FHG22011DE 1 Network node for a sensor system, sensor system, method and computer program Description Embodiments of the present invention relate to a network node for a sensor system, a sensor system, a method, and a computer program. In particular, but not exclusively, embodiments of the present invention relate to an improvement of a sensor system by receiving external information from another network node.

Due to the increased use of automated aircrafts (for example, flight/transport drones, urban air mobility, etc.) and their increasing miniaturization, the aviation industry is increasingly changing and thus also placing new demands on air traffic control. Last but not least, safe operation of drones requires novel guidance systems that meet high safety standards in a complex environment, especially in urban environments. To support these systems, also known as UTM (Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management) systems, sensor networks are required that are equally flexible to deploy as well as robust and low in radiation.

Known issues with other sensor systems include, e.g., a vulnerability to malfunctioning with a central data processing unit, a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) radar failure/malfunctioning, a need for an existing electricity/network infrastructure, a completeness of an active system with no option for reduced passive processing, or a vulnerability to a man-in-the-middle attack. Therefore, there may be a need to improve a network node of a sensor system so that the sensor system comprising the network node can be improved.

Embodiments are based on the core idea that a network node for a sensor system can be improved by configuring the network node to receive external information about a second physical wave reflected on an object or emitted by that object from another network node.

This allows the network node to be informed, for example, about a position of the object, a measured signal intensity, etc., which was determined/detected by the further network node.

Based on this external information and a detection of a first physical wave reflected, or emitted by that object, the network node can then determine information for the sensor system.

FHG22011DE 2 Embodiments relate to a network node for a sensor system comprising one or more interfaces for communicating with another network node and a control module configured to control the one or more interfaces. Furthermore, the control module is configured to detect a first physical wave reflected on an object or emitted by that object. Further, the control module is configured to receive external information about a second physical wave reflected on the object or emitted by that object from the further network node and to determine information for the sensor system based on the first physical wave and the external information. This allows the network node to perform a necessary calculation for determining a parameter of the object, for example a position. Optionally or alternatively, the network node can be enabled to perform a check of a consistency of the external information with the detected physical wave. In particular, this can save a central data processing unit for processing the data of a plurality of network nodes. Further, computation of the information for the sensor system can be enabled by a variety of network nodes, enabling decentralized computation. This allows, for example, the sensor system to be dynamically adapted to a current situation, individual network nodes to be controlled, etc.

Embodiments relate to a method for a network node of a sensor system comprising detecting a first physical wave reflected on an object or emitted by that object, and receiving external information about a second physical wave reflected on the object or emitted by that object from another network node. Further, the method comprises determining information for the sensor system based on the first physical wave and the external information.

Embodiments also create a computer program for performing any of the methods described herein when the computer program runs on a computer, a processor, or a programmable hardware component.

Embodiments will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures: Fig. 1 shows a block diagram of a network node for a sensor system; Fig. 2 shows a schematic illustration of an example of a sensor system; and FHG22011DE 3 Fig. 3 shows a schematic illustration of an example of a method.

Various embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings in which some embodiments are illustrated. In the figures, the thickness dimensions of lines, layers and/or regions may be exaggerated for clarity.

Fig. 1 shows a block diagram of a network node 30 for a sensor system. The network node comprises one or more interfaces 32 for communicating with another network node and a control module 34 configured to control the one or more interfaces 32. Furthermore, the control module 34 is configured to detect a first physical wave reflected on an object or emitted by that object. Further, the control module 34 is configured to receive external information about a second physical wave reflected on the object or emitted by that object from the further network node and to determine information for the sensor system based on the first detected physical wave and the external information. This allows a calculation of information for the sensor system in a decentralized way. For example, a central data processing unit can be saved. In particular, using the network node 30, a resilient network of communicating network nodes 30, such as radar nodes, can be set up. Thus, a sensor system can be made available that can offer increased reliability, such as enabling identification of a faulty network node.

A decentralized computation (also referenced under the principle of edge computing) can allow an implementation of a decentralized network architecture for the sensor system. In particular, the decentralized network architecture can be implemented by individual network nodes 30 that communicate with each other. In particular, this can avoid a central data processing unit as a "single point of failure". Furthermore, a scalability of the network architecture of the sensor system can be increased. Further, self-organization of the network architecture of the sensor system can occur, thus enabling resilience to failure of individual network nodes, such as a MIMO radar. Furthermore, a system response directed at the stability and security of the network can take place to errors, unexpected events and/or partial failures of its network nodes.

Decentralized processing of the network architecture of the sensor system can be enabled by the control module 34, which is configured to receive the external information from the further network node. This allows a connection to be established between individual FHG22011DE 4 network nodes 30. Further, the network node can perform self-organization, for example, determine a radiation characteristic of the first physical wave, such as an intensity, a wavelength, a time of radiation, etc.

For example, the individual network nodes 30 can communicate via wireless communication channels. The external information can, for example, be integrated into a radar signal, (comparable to the principle of Joint Communication, which is known from radar systems, especially for telecommunications technology such as 6G). For example, transmission with radar and communication can take place in coexistence in one signal. In particular, the individual network nodes 30 can communicate using a radio frequency emission that has characteristics of both radar signals and communication signals. In particular, the network node 30 and/or sensor system can be integrated into a telecommunications infrastructure, such as a 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G telecommunications infrastructure. For example, a network node 30 can be comprised by a vehicle that communicates with other vehicles (other network nodes) in a communication network. For example, communication can take place via cooperative awareness messages. Optionally or alternatively, the individual network nodes 30 can communicate via a cable-based connection. For example, a network node 30 based on new mobile radio standards (e.g., 6G) that natively use transmission protocols to Joint Sense and Communication can receive the external information from the further network node.

A physical wave can be any wave that is suitable for being scattered on an object and/or being emitted by the same. For example, a physical wave can be an electromagnetic wave, such as a wave for radar in the radio frequency range, an acoustic wave, such as a wave for sonar in the ultrasonic range, etc.

For example, the object can be capable of flight, for example, a drone, an airplane, a helicopter, etc. For example, the object can be buoyant, such as a boat, a buoy, etc. The object can have a radiating unit so that the first physical wave can be actively radiated by the object. In this case, detection by the control module 34 can be passive, i.e., without an emission of the first physical wave by the network node 30. Optionally or alternatively, the first and/or second physical waves can be radiated by another component, for example the network node 30 or respectively the further network node, so that the first physical wave is reflected on the object. In this case, detection by the control module 34 can be active (if the FHG22011DE first physical wave was radiated by the network node 30) and/or passive (if the first physical wave was not radiated by the network node 30 but, for example, by the further network node).

The first physical wave can be detected using the one or more interfaces 32. For example, the one or more interfaces can be an antenna for receiving a radio wave in the radio frequency range, an ultrasonic wave, etc. Based on the detected first physical wave, the control module can determine a parameter about the object. For example, a parameter of the object can a be a location, speed, a shape, an identification, etc.

The external information can be received by means of the one or more interfaces. The external information can include information about a detected second physical wave. For example, the further network node can detect a second physical wave. Information about the detected second physical wave, such as a signal intensity, a phase, etc., can then be sent to the network node 30 using the external information. A determination of a parameter of the object based on the detected second physical wave can then be made, in particular, by the network node 30. Alternatively, or optionally, the further network node can also determine a parameter of the object based on the detected second physical wave itself and send the determined parameter to the network node 30 using the external information.

Based on the external information and the detected physical wave, information for the sensor system can then be determined. By combining the external information with the detected first physical wave, for example, a determination of a parameter of the object can be improved. In particular, the network node 30 alone can perform a determination of the information for the sensor system, which can be improved by the exchange of information between the further network node and the network node 30. In particular, this allows the network node 30 to enable decentralized determination of information for the sensor system.

In one embodiment, the information for the sensor system can comprise a parameter of the object. For example, a parameter of the object can a be a location, speed, a shape, an identification, etc. By combining the detected first physical wave and the detected second physical wave (through which data can be received by means of the external information), a determination of the parameter of the object can be improved.

FHG22011DE 6 In particular, the sensor system can be a radar system. The object can then be recognized and/or detected within a coverage area of the radar system based on a first electromagnetic wave and a second electromagnetic wave.

In one embodiment, the information can include a parameter about a consistency of the external information and the detected first physical wave. For example, a first position of the object can be determined from the detected first physical wave and a second position of the object can be determined from the external information (for example, the detected second physical wave). If the first position and the second position do not match, an inconsistency, e.g., a faulty detection of the first or second physical wave, can be assumed.

Alternatively, it can be assumed that either the network node 30 or the further network node is malfunctioning. This can increase a security of the sensor system, as a presence of faulty network nodes can be detected.

In one embodiment, the control module 34 can further be configured to determine a detection parameter of the first physical wave and to adjust a detection of the first physical wave based on the detection parameter. This can improve a detection of the first physical wave. This can improve the determination of the information for the sensor system. For example, the one or more interfaces 32 can include a control which can be used to change an orientation of the one or more interfaces 34. The control module 34 can then be configured to change an orientation of the one or more interfaces so that detection of the first physical wave can be improved. Thus, the network node 30 can in particular perform (passive) self-organization, in particular independently of a central data processing unit.

In one embodiment, the control module 34 can be further configured to radiate the first physical wave using the one or more interfaces 32. Optionally or alternatively, the control module 34 can determine an intensity of the detected first physical wave. If a particular intensity is too low, the control module 34 can increase a radiation intensity, through the one or more interfaces 34, so that detection can be improved based on the increased intensity of the first radiated physical wave. In one embodiment, the control module 34 can further be configured to determine a radiation parameter and to adjust the radiation of the first physical wave based on the radiation parameter. The radiation parameter can include an intensity, a wavelength, a time of radiation, etc. In particular, this can improve detection of the first physical wave because, for example, interference with the second physical wave can be FHG22011DE 7 reduced. For example, the network node 30 can receive external information about the detection of the second physical wave from the further network node and adjust a radiation parameter of the first physical wave based thereon. Thus, the network node 30 can in particular perform (active) self-organization, in particular independently of a central data processing unit.

In one embodiment, the control module 34 can be further configured to send information about the first physical wave to the further network node. In particular, the further network node can perform the same calculations as the network node 30. For example, by receiving the information about the first physical wave, the further network node can perform a calculation of a parameter of the object based on the first detected physical wave and the second detected physical wave.

In particular, this allows a multi-agent to be set up, with the individual network nodes 30 representing the agents of the multi-agent system. Thus, the sensor system can then comprise, in particular, a multi-agent system. In particular, the network node 30 and the further network node can be similar network nodes. Thus, the network node 30 and the further network node can be identically configured.

In one embodiment, the network node 30 can further comprise an energy generation unit.

This allows operation without a network for energy supply. In particular, a cordless operation of the network node 30 can be enabled. In particular, an energy requirement of a single network node 30 can be significantly less than an energy requirement of the sensor system or a central data processing unit. This allows energy harvesting methods to be considered, such as using solar modules or the use of small wind turbines to supply the network node 30 with electricity. This makes it possible to achieve independence from a local electricity and network infrastructure. In particular, a flexibility of the network node thus can be increased for a deployment.

Known sensor systems use a wired network for energy supply (for example, an electricity grid) and data communication (for example, a telecommunications network with base stations). By means of the energy generation unit, energy harvesting, and radar and communication coexistence can enable completely cordless operation of the sensor system, as the individual network nodes 30 can be operated completely cordlessly.

FHG22011DE 8 In one embodiment, the energy generation unit can be configured to generate energy (to operate the network node 30) by picking up a physical wave, for example via induction, the photoelectric effect, etc. In particular, the physical wave can be the first physical wave. As a result, operation of the network node 30 can only occur when the first physical wave can also be detected.

The network node 30 can be used for a variety of applications. In particular, a network node can be suitably programmed by an appropriate design, such as an all-digital design, so that adaptation to different conditions is possible. The one or more interfaces 32 can allow integration with other hardware and/or software of optional sensor systems and/or workflows. For example, the network node 30 can be used for a radar system in the context of the UTM environment, for a vehicle in a telecommunications network, for a buoy for underwater detection, etc.

For example, the one or more interfaces 32 can correspond to one or more inputs and/or one or more outputs for receiving and/or transmitting information, such as in digital bit values based on a code, within a module, between modules, or between modules of different entities. The at least one or more interfaces 32 can be configured, for example, to communicate with other network components, such as other network nodes, via a (radio) network or a local interconnection network.

As shown in Fig. 1, the one or more interfaces 32 are coupled to the respective control module 34 of the apparatus 30. In examples, the apparatus 30 can be implemented using one or more processing units, one or more processing devices, any means for processing, such as a processor, a computer or a programmable hardware component, which can be operated with accordingly adapted software. Similar, the described functions of the control module 34 can as well be implemented in software, which is then executed on one or more programmable hardware components. Such hardware components can be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a microcontroller, etc. The control module 34 can be capable of controlling the one or more interfaces 32, so that any data transmission that occurs over the one or more interfaces 32 and/or any interaction that can involve the one or more interfaces 32 can be controlled by the control module 34.

FHG22011DE 9 In embodiments, the control module 34 can correspond to any controller or processor or a programmable hardware component. For example, the control module 34 can also be implemented as software programmed for a corresponding hardware component. In this respect, the control module 34 can be implemented as programmable hardware with appropriately adapted software. Any processor, such as digital signal processors (DSPs), can be used. In this context, embodiments are not limited to a particular type of processor. Any processor or multiple processors as well for implementing the control module 34 are conceivable.

In one embodiment, the apparatus 30 can comprise a memory and at least one control module 34 operably coupled to the memory and configured to perform the method described below.

In examples, the one or more interfaces 32 can correspond to any means for obtaining, receiving, transmitting, or providing analog or digital signals or information, e.g., any terminal, contact, pin, register, input terminal, output terminal, conductor, lane, etc. which allows providing or obtaining a signal or information. The one or more interfaces 32 can be wireless or wired and can be configured to be able to communicate with other internal or external components, such as to send or receive signals or information.

In at least some embodiments, the vehicle can correspond to, for example, a land vehicle, a water vehicle, an aircraft, a rail vehicle, a road vehicle, a car, a bus, a motorcycle, an allterrain vehicle, a motor vehicle, or a truck.

More details and aspects are mentioned in connection with the embodiments described below. The embodiment shown in Fig. 1 can comprise one or more optional additional features corresponding to one or more aspects mentioned in connection with the proposed concept or one or more embodiments described below (e. g. Fig. 2 - 3).

Fig. 2 shows a schematic illustration of an example of a sensor system 200. The sensor system 200 includes a plurality of network nodes 210, 212, 214 as described with reference to Fig. 1. In particular, the sensor system 200 can be a radar system.

FHG22011DE Known sensor systems have a central data processing unit. By using a variety of network nodes 210, 212, 214 configured to communicate with each other, the data processing unit can be eliminated. Data processing can take place in the sensor system 200 in a distributed manner decent rally using the edge computing approach on different MIMO radars 210, 212, 214.

The sensor system 200 can combine active and passive radar methods. For example, the network node 210 cannot radiate a physical wave, but only detect a physical wave radiated by the object 220. The other two network nodes 212, 214 can both radiate a physical wave for reflection on the object 220 and detect the reflected physical wave, and detect the physical wave radiated by the object 220.

In particular, a network node 210, 212, 214 can be both passive (not radiating a physical wave, but merely detecting a wave radiated by the object 220 and/or a reflected wave) or active (radiating a physical wave for reflection on the object 220). For example, the network node 210 can detect a physical wave radiated by the object 220 (and/or a physical wave reflected on the object that was radiated from another network node 212, 214, for example) with sufficient intensity so that active detection (i.e., radiating a physical wave) is not required. For example, the network node 212 can receive external information from the network node 210 about the detected intensity, of the physical wave radiated by the object 220. Based on the external information, the network node 212 can determine that an object 220 is within its coverage area, but from which it does not detect a physical wave of sufficient intensity. Accordingly, the network node 212 can itself radiate a physical wave for reflection on the object 220 to improve detection of the object 220. This can reduce radiation exposure from partial passive MIMO radar operation. Furthermore, improving an acceptance of sensor systems 200, such as radar systems, can be enabled by combining active and passive MIMO radars. In particular, receiving the external information can support self-organization of the network nodes 210, 212, 214, as the network nodes can learn about resources in use.

The use of active and passive network nodes 210, 212, 214 can create a synergy of active and passive radar methods for a modular, resilient network of low-radiation, communicating network nodes 210, 212, 214. In particular, the control module (for example, a radar FHG22011DE 11 processor) can perform a variety of tasks, such as tracking or classifying road users, such as the object 220, or potential obstacles.

In one embodiment, a determination of the information of the sensor system 200 based on decentralized data processing can be performed by at least two network nodes 210, 212, 214 of the plurality of network nodes. In particular, a decentralized determination of the information of the sensor system 200, e.g., a parameter concerning the object 220, a consistency information of the network nodes 210, 212, 214, etc., can be divided among the individual network nodes 210, 212, 214. For example, in accordance with the idea of edge computing, the same can be dynamically applied to a plurality of the network nodes 210, 212, 214, preferably to all of the network nodes 210, 212, 214. The network architecture of the sensor system 200 can thus be automatically adapted to a given situation. The division of tasks among the network nodes 210, 212, 214 can be done, for example, using a suitable algorithm or artificial intelligence.

In particular, in the event of any failure of individual network nodes 210, 212, 214, the sensor system 200 can continue to be functional. For example, a malfunctioning network node can be verified by comparing the determined information for the sensor system 200 with the determined information for the sensor system 200 of the other network nodes. To the extent that the information for the sensor system 200 of a network node 210, 212, 214 is inconsistent with the information for the sensor system 200 of the other network nodes 210, 212, 214, the network node 210, 212, 214 can be considered to be malfunctioning. This is made possible by having a plurality of network nodes 210, 212, 214 determine the same information for the sensor system 200, so that, if there is any discrepancy, a malfunctioning network node 210, 212, 214 can be inferred. In particular, this can increase a safety of the sensor system 200.

For example, in the event of a failure or malfunctioning of a network node 210, 212, 214, the network architecture of the sensor system 200 can independently determine this by continuously matching the outputs (the information about the sensor system 200) of the other network nodes 210, 212, 214 and respond accordingly (e.g., exclude incorrect information from processing, adjust a physical wave radiation of the network nodes 212, 214 to provide the best possible coverage without a faulty network node, etc.). This makes the sensor system 200 particularly suitable for use in a safety-critical environment.

FHG22011DE 12 In one embodiment, a communication of transaction data of the at least two network nodes 210, 212, 214 for decentralized data processing can be performed using a blockchain. In particular, this can increase a safety of the sensor system 200. The data security of the sensor system 200 network can be improved by implementing blockchain concepts. In particular, an increase in security against tampering can be achieved by using blockchain technologies in conjunction with a cryptographic method for managing the acquired data in the network architecture of the sensor system 200.

In one embodiment, at least a first network node of the plurality of network nodes can belong to a first hierarchy level and a second network node of the plurality of network nodes can belong to a second hierarchy level. The different hierarchy levels can , especially temporarily, give a network node 210, 212, 214 a possibility to deviate from the selforganizing approach with regard to a resource allocation. In the case where all network nodes 210, 212, 214 belong to the same hierarchical level, each network node 210, 212, 214 can perform self-organization, for example, determine resources required for itself, such as a radiation angle, a radiation intensity, a wavelength, etc. (optionally considering received external information). By allocating different hierarchy levels, a network node 210, 212, 214 from a higher hierarchy level can, for example, temporarily allocate/assign resources to another network node 210, 212, 214 from a lower hierarchy level, for example, to avoid interference between different radiated physical waves.

As discussed above, energy harvesting can be operated for network nodes 210, 212, 214.

This allows the sensor system 200 to be operated independently of existing wired infrastructure. In particular, energy harvesting can enable operation without a connection to an external electricity grid. Further, the principle of Joint Communication and Sensing can enable independent data transmission between the network nodes 210, 212, 214.

One application for the sensor system 200 can be control tasks for drone guidance systems in low airspace. There is a need here, especially in the area of logistics for the transport of goods and people, which can be handled by means of autonomous drones. Similarly, there may be a need for drone guidance systems in other industries, such as in inspection tasks in the energy, telecommunications and construction sectors, healthcare through ambulatory care, protection of critical infrastructure from non-cooperative road users, other areas of FHG22011DE 13 safety & security, waste management and remediation, agriculture, courier services, intralogistics for warehousing or other scientific and technical services.

More details and aspects are mentioned in connection with the embodiments described below and/or above. The embodiment shown in Fig. 2 can comprise one or more optional additional features corresponding to one or more aspects mentioned in connection with the proposed concept or one or more embodiments described above (e.g., Fig. 1) and/or below (e.g., Fig. 3).

Fig. 3 shows a schematic illustration of an example of a method 300. The method 300 for a network node (as described above with reference to Fig. 1) of a sensor system (as described above with reference to Fig. 2) includes detecting 310 a first physical wave reflected on an object or emitted by that object, and receiving 320 external information about a second physical wave reflected on the object or emitted by that object from another network node.

Further, the method comprises 300 determining 330 information for the sensor system based on the first detected physical wave and the external information. The method 300 can replace a central data processing unit of a sensor system. In particular, each network node of a sensor system can perform an independent determination of the information for the sensor system.

More details and aspects are mentioned in connection with the embodiments described above. The embodiment shown in Fig. 2 can comprise one or more optional additional features corresponding to one or more aspects mentioned in connection with the proposed concept or one or more embodiments described above (e. g. Fig. 1 - 2).

Claims (17)

FHG22011DE 14 Claims

1. A network node (30; 210; 212; 214) for a sensor system comprising one or more interfaces (32) for communicating with another network node (210; 212; 5 214); and a control module (34) configured to control the one or more interfaces (32) and to: detect a first physical wave reflected on an object or emitted by that object; 10 receive external information about a second physical wave reflected at the object or emitted by that object from the other network node (210; 212; 214); and determine information for the sensor system based on the first detected physical wave 15 and the external information.

2. The network node (30; 210; 212; 214) of claim 1, wherein the information for the sensor system comprises a parameter of the object. 20

3. The network node (30; 210; 212; 214) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the information comprises a parameter about a consistency of the external information and the detected first physical wave. 25

4. The network node (30; 210; 212; 214) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control module (34) is further configured to: determine a detection parameter of the first physical wave; and 30 adjust a detection of the first physical wave based on the detection parameter.

5. The network node (30; 210; 212; 214) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control module (34) is further configured to FHG22011DE 15 radiate the first physical wave using the one or more interfaces (32).

6. The network node (30; 210; 212; 214) of claim 5, wherein the control module (34) is further configured to: 5 determine a radiation parameter; and adjust the radiation of the first physical wave based on the radiation parameter. 10

7. The network node (30; 210; 212; 214) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control module (34) is further configured to send information about the first detected physical wave to the further network node (210; 212; 214). 15

8. The network node (30; 210; 212; 214) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an energy generation unit. 20

9. The network node (30; 210; 212; 214) of claim 8, wherein the energy generation unit is configured to generate energy by picking up a physical wave. 25

10. The network node (30; 210; 212; 214) of claim 8 or 9, further comprising an energy transmission unit configured to transmit energy to the further network node (210; 212; 214) by means of a physical wave. 30

11. A sensor system (200) for determining a parameter of an object, comprising a plurality of network nodes (210; 212; 214) of any one of the preceding claims. FHG22011DE 16

12. The sensor system (200) of claim 11, wherein the sensor system (200) is a radar system.

13. The sensor system (200) of any one of claims 11-12, wherein 5 a determination of the information of the sensor system (20) based on decentralized data processing is performed by at least two network nodes (210; 212; 214) of the plurality of network nodes (210; 212; 214).

14. The sensor system (200) of any one of claims 11-13, wherein 10 a communication of transaction data of the at least two network nodes (210; 212; 214) for decentralized data processing is performed using a blockchain.

15. The sensor system (200) of any one of claims 11-14, wherein 15 at least a first network node of the plurality of network nodes (210; 212; 214) belongs to a first hierarchy level and a second network node of the plurality of network nodes (210; 212; 214) belongs to a second hierarchy level. 20

16. A method (300) for a network node for a sensor system comprising: detecting (310) a first physical wave reflected on an object or emitted by that object; receiving (320) external information about a second physical wave reflected on the 25 object or emitted by that object from another network node; and determining (330) information for the sensor system based on the first detected physical wave and the external information. 30

17. A computer program for performing the method (300) of claim 16, when the computer program is executed on a computer, a processor, or a programmable hardware component.