Cloud-Hosted Control Panel Backup for Local System Failures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems are vulnerable to local control panel failures due to hardware or software issues, which can lead to operational disruptions since timely replacement is not always possible.
Innovation Solution
Implementing cloud-hosted control system back-up processing that allows a remote cloud-hosted control panel to take over the functionality of a failed local control panel, enabling continuous operation by communicating with sensors and output devices via wireless networks, and maintaining periodic updates to ensure seamless transition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a local control panel is used for control system operation, then the system can operate independently and locally, but the system becomes vulnerable to hardware or software failures that require timely replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a cloud-hosted backup control panel that is pre-configured with the same control logic and software as the local control panel. This preliminary preparation allows the backup system to immediately assume control operations when the local panel fails, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration and reducing downtime while maintaining system reliability through redundant control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the local control panel hosted in the cloud, which replicates all control functions, software, and configuration. This copy serves as a standby control system that can seamlessly take over when the original fails, addressing both reliability concerns and minimizing operational downtime without requiring physical hardware replacement
2Reliability
If cloud-hosted backup processing is implemented, then system continuity is maintained during local panel failures, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication interface as an intermediary between the local control panel, sensors, output devices, and the cloud-hosted backup panel. This mediator manages the complexity of coordinating multiple components by standardizing communication protocols and data formats, allowing the backup system to assume control without requiring complex reconfiguration of sensors and output devices, thus maintaining reliability while managing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The cloud-hosted backup control panel is designed with universal control capabilities that can interface with various sensor types and output devices through standardized communication protocols. This multi-functionality allows a single backup system to support multiple different control panel configurations, reducing overall system complexity by eliminating the need for device-specific backup solutions while maintaining high reliability
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods that use cloud-hosted control system back-up processing to replace the functionality of a failed control panel are provided. Systems can include a remote monitoring station, a remote control panel device, and a local control system installed in a region, the local control system including a local control panel and at least one device. When operating in a normal mode, the at least one device can communicate with the local control panel, the local control panel can communicate with the remote monitoring station, and the remote control panel device can be inactive. When operating in a back-up mode, the remote control panel device can be active, the at least one device can communicate with the remote control panel device, the remote control panel device can communicate with the remote monitoring station, and the local control panel can be inactive.