Edge Compute Module Deployment via Backplane Access Rules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing industrial automation systems face inefficiencies in configuring and managing compute modules due to the need for manual programming and lack of dynamic control over communication and access parameters, which can lead to security vulnerabilities.
Innovation Solution
The use of an embedded edge compute (EEC) module communicatively coupled to a data backplane, which employs an add-on profile (AOP) to configure operating parameters through design software, enabling efficient communication and secure remote access management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual programming is used to configure compute modules, then system security can be controlled, but configuration time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a backplane as an intermediary component that mediates between the compute module and the external system. The backplane enforces communication rules and access parameters automatically, providing security without requiring manual programming of each compute module. This intermediary handles the security enforcement, freeing the compute modules from complex configuration tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The compute modules are designed to automatically configure themselves by interacting with the backplane. When a compute module is inserted, it automatically negotiates communication parameters and access rules with the backplane without requiring manual programming. This self-service mechanism reduces configuration time while maintaining security through the backplane's enforced rules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual programming is used for compute module configuration, then access control can be customized, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The backplane serves as a universal configuration interface for all compute modules in the system. Instead of each compute module requiring individual manual programming, the backplane provides a standardized mechanism that works with all modules. This universal approach enables flexible access control customization while reducing the overall complexity of the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The backplane acts as an intermediary that handles the complexity of access control customization. It manages the negotiation between different compute modules and enforces access rules automatically. This mediation allows the system to achieve high adaptability in access control while keeping the individual compute modules simple and easy to operate.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic control over communication parameters is implemented, then system flexibility improves, but security vulnerabilities may increase without proper management
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic control over communication parameters through the backplane, which can adjust access rules and communication settings in real-time based on system conditions. This dynamic capability provides the necessary flexibility for adaptability while the backplane's centralized management ensures security is maintained through enforced communication rules.
Data Source
AI summary
A method may include receiving, via a computing device, a request to install an application configured to interact with an industrial device within an industrial system. The computing device may be communicatively coupled to the industrial device via a data backplane, and the request may include application data associated with one or more expected communications between the application and the industrial device. The method may also involve comparing, via the computing device, one or more application operations associated with the application with one or more rules associated with the data backplane, retrieving an application image file configured to install the application based on a comparison between the one or more application operations and the one or more rules, and installing the application based on the application image file.