Edge Device Cycle-Time Diagnosis for Reliable Field Data Requests
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for querying field devices via edge devices in industrial networks often exceed predefined cycle times, leading to violations of the sampling theorem and unreliable data transmission, especially when multiple digital services and field devices are involved, with unpredictable execution times and random variations.
Innovation Solution
A method for diagnosing edge device operation by determining initial and total cycle times, comprising active and passive query components, and comparing them against predefined request times, with measures to reduce passive query times if necessary, ensuring compliance with cycle time limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If edge devices are deployed closer to users to reduce latency and improve real-time processing, then service response speed and user experience are improved, but the risk of bacterial contamination and operational failures increases due to lack of sterilization capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
A portable sterilization device is introduced as an intermediary between the edge device and the environment. This sterilization device includes a sterilization chamber that can sterilize the edge device without requiring the edge device itself to have sterilization capabilities, thus resolving the contradiction between rapid deployment and contamination risk
Solution Approach 2:
The sterilization function is extracted from the edge device and placed into a separate portable sterilization device. This allows the edge device to focus on its primary function of providing real-time services while the sterilization device handles contamination prevention, solving the contradiction between speed and reliability
2Adaptability or versatility
If edge devices are deployed in diverse environments without fixed locations, then service coverage and adaptability are improved, but regular sterilization and maintenance become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The portable sterilization device enables self-service sterilization for edge devices. The edge device can be sterilized by placing it in the sterilization chamber without requiring fixed infrastructure or complex maintenance procedures, thus maintaining ease of maintenance while preserving environmental adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The portable sterilization device serves as a mobile intermediary that can be transported to different locations where edge devices are deployed. This resolves the contradiction by providing sterilization capability wherever the edge device operates, without requiring fixed installation locations
3Reliability
If comprehensive monitoring systems are implemented to ensure edge device safety and performance, then system reliability and safety are improved, but system complexity and deployment costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system implements feedback mechanisms where sensors detect operational parameters and sterilization status, and this information is used to automatically control sterilization cycles and alert operators. This automated feedback reduces the complexity of manual monitoring while maintaining high system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The portable sterilization device incorporates multiple functions including sterilization, monitoring, and communication capabilities in a single integrated unit. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate dedicated systems for each function, while maintaining comprehensive monitoring for reliability
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention comprises a method for diagnosing the operation of an edge device (ED), in which the edge device (ED) has a communication link to a plurality of network subscribers (FG1, FG2, FG3, FG4, GW1, GW2) via one or more communication networks (KN1), and the edge device (ED) has a communication link to a database (DB) via a further communication network (KN2), at least one first application (AP1) running on the edge device (ED), and the edge device (ED) requesting data of those network subscribers (FG1, FG2, ..., GW2) which are defined via a first filter accessible to the first application (AP1). The method comprises: determining a first cycle time of the first application (AP1), the first cycle time designating the time period which is required in order to request the data of all network subscribers (FG1, FG2, ..., GW2) defined in the first application (AP1); comparing the determined cycle time with at least one first request time relating to one or more of the network subscribers (FG1, FG2,..., GW2) defined in the first application (AP1); outputting information as to whether or not the determined first cycle time exceeds the at least one first request time.