Distributed Test File Access for Material Testing Network Interruptions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional material testing systems face disruptions when access to a central data repository is interrupted, leading to unavailability of essential files and data, thereby halting operations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a distributed system with local data repositories that store redundant copies of critical files, allowing continued testing even when the central repository becomes inaccessible, and synchronizing these copies with the central data upon reconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a central data repository is used to store test files, then storage space is saved and file consistency is maintained, but system availability deteriorates when network access is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized data storage system into distributed local copies. Each testing workstation maintains a local data repository that stores copies of test files, separating the storage function from the central repository. This segmentation allows workstations to operate independently when network access is unavailable, improving system availability while maintaining data consistency through periodic synchronization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements copying by creating local replicas of test files at each testing workstation. Instead of relying on a single central repository, the system generates and maintains copies of essential test files locally. These copies enable continuous operation during network interruptions, and the copying mechanism includes automatic updates when files change in the central repository.
2Reliability
If local copies of test files are stored at each workstation, then system availability is improved during network interruptions, but storage space consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making each testing workstation self-sufficient with locally stored test files. Each workstation's data repository contains the specific test files needed for that particular system, rather than requiring access to a central repository. This local quality ensures that each system can operate independently, improving availability while optimizing storage usage based on local needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the local data repository multi-functional by enabling it to serve as both a cache for frequently accessed files and a standalone storage solution during network interruptions. The repository can store test files, specimen information, and test results, providing universal access to essential data regardless of network availability, thereby improving system reliability without requiring proportional increases in total storage capacity.
3Loss of information
If continuous synchronization with central repository is implemented, then data consistency is maintained, but network bandwidth consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by synchronizing local data repositories with the central repository at scheduled intervals rather than continuously. The system periodically checks for file changes and updates local copies when modifications are detected. This periodic synchronization maintains data consistency while significantly reducing network bandwidth consumption compared to continuous real-time synchronization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms to monitor file changes in the central repository and trigger selective synchronization. When a file modification is detected at the central repository, the system receives feedback and automatically updates the corresponding local copies. This feedback-driven approach ensures data consistency is maintained only when necessary, optimizing network bandwidth usage by avoiding unnecessary synchronization transactions.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are examples of distributed material testing systems that store local copies of selected files/data used for material testing, so that at least some material testing can continue in at least some capacity if a central data repository becomes inaccessible. In some examples, during normal operation, files/data used for material testing are stored in the central data repository so that the several material testing systems connected to the central data repository can each use the same files/data. However, if access to the central data repository becomes temporarily interrupted, the local file/data copies may be used by a local material testing system to conduct material tests.