Decentralized Aggregation Modules for Heterogeneous Process Metadata
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems face challenges in aggregating and transmitting process metadata from heterogeneous manufacturing process chains due to differences in process devices and standards, leading to incomplete or incorrect metadata generation and time-consuming data collection across diverse production environments.
Innovation Solution
A decentralized system with aggregation modules generates a dynamic metadata profile for accessing manufacturing process chains, allowing for standardized and automated data collection and transmission of process metadata, enabling user-specific adaptation without requiring adaptation of existing production processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standardized data formats and classes are defined for heterogeneous operating data, then data can be stored and accessed in standardized formats, but data gaps and incomplete information remain that cannot be fully overcome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a data normalization layer that acts as an intermediary between heterogeneous data sources and the standardized access interface. This normalization layer transforms and enriches data from various sources (machine-specific formats, sensor data, third-party formats like NatCat, LAH, PCS, RLC, ACORD) into a complete standardized format, filling data gaps through intelligent data mapping and integration rather than simple standardization.
2Measurement precision
If manual data collection and conversion methods are used for heterogeneous process chains, then complete analysis can be achieved, but tremendous time and human interaction are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated data collection and conversion mechanisms that operate autonomously across heterogeneous process chains. Aggregation modules automatically discover, collect, normalize, and convert data from diverse sources without requiring manual intervention, enabling complete data analysis to be performed automatically while significantly reducing the time and human interaction previously required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If static system configuration is used for each case group, then heterogeneous data can be processed in standardized form, but the system must be adapted for each case group
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static system configuration to dynamic, adaptive configuration. The system automatically detects the specific case group or data source type and dynamically loads appropriate normalization rules, data models, and processing parameters. This dynamic approach allows the system to handle heterogeneous data from different case groups (manufacturing processes, insurance products, etc.) without requiring manual adaptation or reconfiguration, reducing system complexity while maintaining versatility.
4Quantity of substance
If comprehensive data collection from all process devices is attempted, then complete process metadata can be obtained, but the heterogeneity of process devices and standards makes aggregation practically impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the heterogeneous data collection problem into manageable components by introducing aggregation modules for each process device or data source type. Each aggregation module is responsible for collecting and normalizing data from its specific device using device-appropriate methods, then converting to a unified standardized format. This segmentation approach makes comprehensive data collection feasible by breaking down the complex aggregation task into independent, device-specific collection units that work in parallel.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The method involves accessing a selective manufacturing process chain by decentralized aggregation modules (25) of a central unit (20) at process devices. The aggregation modules are arranged during the manufacturing process chains, where a meta data profile (21) is generated in partially dynamic manner based on user request (11) for access by the central unit. Each process chain has multiple processing devices (31) assisting in the manufacturing processes of a manufacturing product (40). An independent claim is included for a system for aggregation and transmission of process meta data of heterogeneous production process chains.