Controller Credential Synchronization for Security Consistency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Controller devices in industrial control systems are susceptible to unauthorized access due to inconsistent login credentials, which can lead to security threats and potential system compromise.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that synchronizes login credentials across multiple controllers in a redundant control system, using techniques such as first come first serve, round robin, or priority scheduling, to detect and alert discrepancies, thereby enhancing security by ensuring consistent credentials across all controllers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If login credentials are stored independently in each controller, then each controller can operate autonomously, but security vulnerability increases due to inconsistent credentials across controllers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the credential storage function across distributed controllers by implementing a centralized credential repository that all controllers access. This combining approach ensures that all controllers use identical login credentials while maintaining their operational autonomy, thus resolving the contradiction between independence and security consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a credential synchronization mechanism as an intermediary component that mediates between the centralized repository and individual controllers. This intermediary ensures that credential updates are propagated consistently to all controllers, maintaining security reliability without compromising controller autonomy.
2Reliability
If credential synchronization is implemented across all controllers, then security consistency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal credential repository that serves multiple controllers simultaneously, allowing a single synchronization mechanism to manage credentials across the entire control system. This multi-functional approach reduces overall system complexity compared to implementing separate synchronization mechanisms for each controller pair.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization mechanism is designed to automatically detect and propagate credential updates to all controllers without manual intervention. This self-service capability reduces operational complexity and eliminates the need for complex manual credential management procedures across multiple controllers.
3Speed
If credential changes are detected and propagated immediately, then security response time is improved, but communication overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic credential verification and synchronization cycles across controllers. Instead of continuous real-time synchronization, the system checks for credential changes at scheduled intervals, reducing communication overhead while maintaining timely security response. This periodic approach balances update speed with energy efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system includes a control system 12 having a plurality of controllers 26 configured to control a process. Each controller of the plurality of controllers further includes a secure repository 30 configured to store a login credential 28. The control system 28 is configured to authorize a user action by comparing a user credential against the login credential of each of the plurality of controllers 26.