Kernel awareness of physical environment

Abstract

Techniques to implement physically aware kernels are described. A kernel or operating system controlling resources and processing on a computer is rendered environmentally aware. The physical environment of a computer is measured by one or more sensors. The measurements or observations are evaluated. When a pre-specified environmental condition exists according the measurements or observations, the kernel is adapted accordingly. The core behavior of the kernel, such as how it manages memory or how it manages processes, is modified in light of sensed environmental conditions. That is, kernel-level functionality, as opposed to user-space application code, is modified in response to specific environmental conditions. An embodiment may have a policy engine that monitors sensor observations and an enforcement module that reaches into the kernel to modify the kernel based on conclusions reached by the policy engine. In another embodiment, the kernel itself stores, monitors, and responds to environment data.