Browser Interface Device for Intelligent Electronic Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) for substation and distribution automation have limited operational flexibility and security due to their integrated Human Machine Interface (HMI) and strict hardware and software configurations, which restricts their adaptability and access control.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an interface device with a data interface for communication and a user interface that provides browser-based access to IEDs, independent of specific IED technologies, featuring a touch-sensitive display and Ethernet connectivity, allowing for secure and flexible interaction with IEDs through a security server that authenticates and controls access, enabling data reading and modification without requiring additional interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If an integrated HMI is strictly integrated in the hardware and software structure of the IED, then the IED structure is simplified and manufacturing is easier, but operational flexibility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the IED into two independent parts: the IED itself and a separate interface device. The interface device contains the HMI functionality and communicates with the IED via standard data interfaces, allowing the IED to remain simple while the interface device provides flexible, adaptable HMI capabilities for different scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The interface device is designed as a universal solution that can connect to multiple types of IEDs through standard data interfaces. It provides a standardized HMI that works across different IED models and manufacturers, enhancing operational flexibility without requiring custom integration for each IED type
2Device complexity
If an integrated HMI is strictly integrated in the IED, then device complexity is reduced, but access control and security are limited
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the HMI function into an independent interface device, the system enables dedicated security measures at the interface level. The interface device can implement authentication, authorization, and access control mechanisms without complicating the IED's internal structure
Solution Approach 2:
The interface device acts as an intermediary between users and the IED. It can authenticate users, control access to IED functions, and log security events, providing enhanced security while the IED remains structurally simple
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional IEDs use integrated HMI with strict hardware and software configuration, then manufacturing and deployment are simpler, but adaptability to different IED types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The interface device is designed with universal compatibility, supporting multiple data interfaces and communication protocols. It can connect to different types of IEDs from various manufacturers through standardized interfaces, providing a consistent HMI experience across diverse equipment without requiring custom deployment for each IED type
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an interface device (100) for an intelligent electronic device (200), wherein said interface device (100) comprises a data interface (110) for establishing data communications with said intelligent electronic device (200), and a user interface (120) for exchanging data with a user (300) of said interface device (100), wherein said interface device (100) is configured to provide browser means (130) for accessing said intelligent electronic device (200) via said data interface (110).