Field Panel Embedded Webserver Distributed Communication Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional building automation systems often experience information bottlenecks due to the centralized processing of data through a master or central field panel, which can limit flexibility and efficiency in communication and access to automation components.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an embedded webserver into field panels that maintains a node table with address and communication information, allowing for direct and authenticated communication between components without routing through a central panel, thereby reducing the risk of communication bottlenecks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a master or central field panel acts as a clearinghouse to centrally process and handle information from multiple automation components, then centralized control and monitoring is achieved, but communication bottlenecks and reduced system flexibility occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized control function by enabling each field panel to independently host a web server and maintain its own node table, allowing local automation components to communicate directly with the field panel without routing through a central master panel. This segmentation eliminates the communication bottleneck while preserving operational control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new communication dimension by embedding web servers within field panels, enabling direct peer-to-peer communication between field panels and automation components. This dimensional change transforms the hierarchical centralized communication model into a distributed multi-level communication architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple field panels are deployed throughout a building to distribute automation components, then system scalability and reduced bottlenecks are achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes each field panel universal by embedding a web server within it, enabling field panels to perform both traditional automation control functions and web-based communication functions. This multi-functionality allows any field panel to serve as a gateway for automation components, simplifying network configuration while maintaining scalability.
Solution Approach 2:
The embedded web server acts as an intermediary that enables direct communication between automation components and external networks without requiring a central master panel. This intermediary function is distributed across all field panels, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining scalability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The systems, methods and devices disclosed and discussed herein provide for a field panel configured to include a webserver. The exemplary field panel and webserver may be arranged in communication with one or more automation components and/or field panels deployed for operation in connection with the building automation system. For example, an information request may be directed to a master or central field panel for authorization, and the master or central field panel may in turn query a node table containing address and/or communication information with the other field panels and/or automation components operable on the wired or wireless communication network. The information within the node table may, in turn, allow for direct communication to the other field panels and/or automation components operable on the network. In this way, authorized access to each of the field panels and/or automation components may be achieved while the possibility of a communications bottleneck at the master or central field panel may be significantly reduced and/or eliminated