Inverted Client-Server Cloud Architecture for Secure Real-Time Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current web-based solutions for real-time data processing and visualization are limited by high latency, lack of bi-directional communication, and security concerns, particularly in industrial SCADA systems, where real-time data connectivity over the Internet is hindered by the need for opening inbound firewall ports, leading to security risks and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that enables low-latency, real-time data applications in web browsers using existing HTTP or HTTPS protocols, allowing bi-directional communication and secure data transmission without requiring open inbound firewall ports by reversing the client/server relationship, where the data source acts as a client and connects to a cloud server, eliminating the need for inbound port openings and enhancing security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If web-based real-time data processing is implemented using traditional client/server architecture, then data accessibility and remote access are improved, but security risks increase due to the need for opening inbound firewall ports
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional client/server relationship by making the data source act as a client that initiates outbound connections to the web server, rather than the web server initiating inbound connections to the data source. This reversal eliminates the need for inbound firewall ports while maintaining remote accessibility, thus resolving the security risk without sacrificing ease of operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional HTTP protocols are used for real-time data communication, then web compatibility is improved, but data latency increases due to request-response architecture limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a persistent connection where the data source client continuously pushes data to the web server without requiring repeated request-response cycles. This continuous data stream maintains web protocol compatibility while eliminating the latency inherent in traditional HTTP request-response architecture, as data is transmitted immediately when generated rather than waiting for periodic requests
3Ease of operation
If inbound firewall ports are opened for cloud connectivity, then Internet accessibility is improved, but network security is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By reversing the connection initiation direction so that the data source acts as a client establishing outbound connections to the cloud server, the system achieves Internet accessibility without requiring inbound firewall ports. This approach maintains network security by keeping the firewall closed to inbound traffic while still enabling cloud connectivity through permitted outbound connections
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for providing secure, end-to-end data service enabling real-time data over the Internet is disclosed. The system and method provides a communication framework between sensors, devices, and machinery and the users of that data from any remote location that is connected to the Internet without requiring open inbound firewall ports, while at the same time enabling high data rates, low latency and full bi-directionality. The graphical and networking features of RIA frameworks in combination with the disclosed system and method provide low-latency, real-time data applications in a web browser securely over the Internet.