Inductive Wireless Network Device Configuration With Secure UAID Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network devices for automation processes with wireless communication require complex individualization and software updates, making them difficult for operating personnel to manage effectively.
Innovation Solution
A network device equipped with a wireless communication device capable of transmitting and storing data via induction, featuring an ID memory for unified address identification and an operating memory for storing necessary data, with a two-stage access mechanism to prevent unauthorized access, and a manufacturing method that includes generating and assigning a unique UAID for each device, allowing for remote configuration and updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless communication devices are used for individualization and software updates, then remote configuration capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple memory components and access mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the memory system into two distinct segments: ID memory for storing identification data and operating parameters, and operating memory for storing executable code and runtime data. This segmentation allows each memory type to be optimized for its specific function, simplifying the overall system architecture while enabling remote configuration capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a switching element as an intermediary component that controls access between the wireless communication device and the two memory types. This mediator manages the complexity by providing a unified access interface while internally routing to appropriate memory segments, thus simplifying external interaction despite internal complexity.
2Reliability
If two-stage access mechanism is implemented to prevent unauthorized access, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to restricted access control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic access control where the switching element can change its connectivity state based on authorization status. The system transitions between different operational modes: restricted access for unauthenticated devices and full access for authenticated devices. This dynamic behavior provides strong security while maintaining ease of operation for authorized users.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service authentication where the wireless communication device can independently verify authorization credentials and automatically adjust access permissions without requiring manual intervention. This self-managing authentication process strengthens security while preserving operational simplicity for authorized users.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Simplifies the individualization and update process of network devices by enabling secure, remote configuration and operation, enhancing security and reducing the complexity of managing network devices in automation processes.
Implementation Method 1
The network device (110) includes at least one wireless communication device (112) which is designed for transmitting the data and/or for storing received data by energy received from a transmitting device (132), in particular energy received by induction
Data Source
AI summary
A network device includes at least one wireless communication device for transmitting data and/or for storing received data by energy received from a transmitting device by induction. The wireless communication device includes or is connected to an ID memory operable by the received energy, in which at least one UAID (unified address identification) can be stored, and which can be read out or (over)written by the wireless communication device. An operating memory is provided, in which an operating data of the network device, which is at least partially necessary for the operation of the network device, can be stored. A method for manufacturing the network device includes assembling the device, storing primary configuration data, generating secondary configuration data, storing the secondary configuration data in a central processing memory, and overwriting the primary configuration data in the network device with the secondary configuration data.