Blockchain Control System for Heterogeneous Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Processing command sequences in a heterogeneous network of devices from different operators is difficult due to the lack of effective control mechanisms, as seen in existing solutions.

Innovation Solution

A control system utilizing a distributed database system, such as a blockchain, to manage and execute control commands by assigning execution requests based on device-specific requirements, with modules for determination, caching, storage, checking, and execution, ensuring secure and reliable command execution across nodes and devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If command sequences are transmitted to devices in a heterogeneous network, then devices can be operated by different operators, but processing the command sequences becomes difficult to control

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A control system with a determination module is introduced as an intermediary between command sources and heterogeneous devices. This mediator assigns execution requests to control commands, determines executability based on device-specific requirements, and manages the complex processing logic centrally, thereby enabling multi-operator device operation without increasing control difficulty at device level

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The control system segments the command processing into distinct functional modules: a determination module for assigning execution requests and determining executability, a cache module for storing previously executed commands, and execution modules at device level. This segmentation allows each module to handle specific tasks independently, reducing overall control complexity in heterogeneous networks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If a distributed database system is used to store control transactions, then security and tamper-proof execution are enhanced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexecution securityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system uses a distributed database system that serves multiple functions: storing control transactions, maintaining execution history, providing security through decentralization, and enabling verification of command execution. This multi-functional approach enhances security without requiring separate systems for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If execution requirements are determined for each control command, then command executability is ensured, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommand executabilityVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The determination module determines execution requirements for control commands in advance, before actual execution. By pre-assessing device-specific requirements and presupposed control commands, the system ensures command executability is verified beforehand, reducing the need for repeated checks during execution and thereby minimizing processing time delays

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP3718263B1Method and control system for controlling and/or supervising of devices
Publication Date: 2022.07.20 SIEMENS AG
  • EP3718263B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3718263B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3718263B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5

AI summary

The aim of the invention is to manage in a simple manner complex control command chains in a blockchain for a specific task for the purpose of controlling devices. In particular, the invention allows a specified validity to be assigned to a specific task of a blockchain-based device controller, wherein the validity is defined, for example, by the life cycle (e.g. the service life) of a device.