Cloud Automation Control Using State Vectors and Secure Device Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automation systems have limited communication capabilities, restricting the exchange of data between sensors and actuators, and lack a centralized, tamper-proof method for monitoring and controlling machine parameters across different levels of the automation pyramid.
Innovation Solution
An automation system that enables individual elements like sensors, actuators, and controls to communicate directly with a cloud-based computer network using tamper-proof protocols, where parameter values are stored in a state vector and checked periodically to generate control commands, ensuring secure and fail-safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hierarchical automation pyramid structure is used with machine controller at control level and sensors/actuators at sensor-actuator level, then the system provides structured control and monitoring functions, but communication is limited and must proceed exclusively via the machine controller
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized control architecture into distributed intelligent elements. Each sensor and actuator is equipped with its own processor that can independently execute control algorithms and make decisions, breaking away from the mandatory hierarchical communication path. This segmentation enables direct peer-to-peer communication between sensors and actuators, eliminating the communication bottleneck at the machine controller level while maintaining system reliability through distributed intelligence.
2Adaptability or versatility
If direct cloud-based communication is implemented for sensors and actuators, then data exchange flexibility and remote monitoring capability are improved, but system complexity and security requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring each sensor and actuator with embedded security credentials, cryptographic keys, and authentication mechanisms before deployment. The system establishes secure communication channels in advance through pre-shared keys and digital certificates. This preliminary security setup enables direct cloud communication without adding operational complexity, as security handshakes are automatically performed using pre-configured parameters, and remote monitoring capabilities are activated through pre-established secure connections.
3Reliability
If parameter values are continuously monitored and checked against initial values, then system safety and error detection capability are improved, but communication overhead and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by monitoring parameter values at predetermined time intervals rather than continuously. The intelligent elements compare their current parameter values against stored initial values at these periodic checkpoints. This periodic monitoring approach maintains operational safety and error detection capability while significantly reducing communication overhead and energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring, as data transmission and processing occur only at scheduled intervals rather than continuously.
Data Source
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AI summary
The automation system (1) according to the invention serves to control (3) a machine or system (2) to which individual elements in the form of sensors (4), actuators (5), or controllers (3) are assigned. The individual elements exchange information directly with a computer network (6) comprising at least one computing unit via the internet using tamper-proof protocols. The individual elements are identifiable by the computer network (6) using unique identifiers. The initial values of parameters from different individual elements are combined in a state vector and stored in the computer network (6). During operation of the machine or system (2), the computer network (6) checks at defined times when the currently available parameter values of the state vector correspond to the initial values of a state vector. Depending on these checks, the computer network (6) generates control commands.