Blockchain STPA Supply Chain Event Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data analytics methods in complex production systems, such as aircraft production, are inefficient in identifying and explaining undesirable conditions in real-time, limiting the ability to implement effective controls and improvements.
Innovation Solution
Integration of blockchain technology with system theoretic process analysis (STPA) to record and analyze sensor data, enabling near real-time identification of system causes for undesirable conditions and facilitating continuous improvement in production and supply chain processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional data analytics methods are used to monitor production systems, then system operations can be tracked, but the ability to identify and explain undesirable conditions in real-time is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monitoring system into multiple specialized components: blockchain for immutable event recording, process model simulator for causal analysis, and STPA for systematic hazard identification. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in specific tasks, improving overall identification accuracy while maintaining real-time efficiency through parallel processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between sensor data collection and analysis that includes blockchain for verified event storage and a process model simulator for causal inference. This intermediary structure enables more accurate identification of undesirable conditions by providing verified data and causal context, while the modular architecture maintains processing efficiency.
2Loss of information
If comprehensive sensor data is collected and analyzed, then deeper insights into production operations are achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal blockchain infrastructure that serves multiple functions: immutable event storage, data verification, and distributed synchronization. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems, reducing overall complexity while enabling comprehensive data collection and analysis across the supply chain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the process model simulator continuously compares actual sensor data against expected process models, and STPA systematically analyzes deviations to identify hazards. This feedback loop structure organizes comprehensive data analysis in a systematic way that manages complexity through structured information processing.
3Reliability
If traditional analytics methods are used, then system operations are monitored, but the ability to implement effective controls and improvements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using STPA to systematically identify potential hazards and control deficiencies before they manifest as actual undesirable conditions. The process model simulator pre-establishes causal relationships and expected process behavior, enabling faster response and more effective control implementation when deviations occur, thereby reducing the time loss between problem detection and effective intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for controlling a supply chain including a production system. Sensor data is received from a sensor in the production system or elsewhere in the supply chain. The sensor data identifies an event in the production system or elsewhere in the supply chain. Event information for the event is stored in an events blockchain. The event information from the events blockchain is used in a process model simulation of the production system or the supply chain to identify an undesirable condition in the production system or elsewhere in the supply chain. System theoretic process analysis is used to identify a change in the production system or elsewhere in the supply chain to prevent occurrence of the undesirable condition.