IoT Authorization Module for Secure Plant Data Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information management systems in manufacturing plants lack control over data sharing and security, making them inefficient and costly for small-scale operations, especially when using complex systems or cloud-based solutions that require continuous support.
Innovation Solution
An Internet of Things (IoT) module is introduced to control data transfer between subsystems in a manufacturing plant, allowing authorized sharing of operational parameters through a plug-in installed in devices, using a plant network, and providing a user-friendly interface for operators to select and manage data sharing, ensuring data security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all parameters of a subsystem are shared with other subsystems in conventional systems, then coordination between subsystems is achieved, but data security is compromised and control over information sharing is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing authorization rules and access control policies before data sharing occurs. The authorization module pre-configures which parameters can be shared between which subsystems, ensuring that data security is maintained from the outset rather than reacting to security issues after they arise.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary authorization module that sits between subsystems and controls data flow. This mediator verifies authorization requests, checks against predefined rules, and selectively permits or denies parameter sharing, thus maintaining both coordination and security without requiring all subsystems to directly share all parameters.
2Reliability
If complex systems with centralized cloud platforms are used for data sharing, then data security and control are improved, but system complexity and continuous support requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the authorization functionality into modular components distributed across different subsystems rather than relying on a single centralized cloud platform. Each subsystem has its own authorization module that can independently enforce security rules, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining security through distributed control.
Solution Approach 2:
The authorization module enables subsystems to self-manage their own data sharing permissions through predefined rules and policies. This self-service capability reduces the need for continuous external support and intervention, as the system can autonomously enforce security rules without requiring complex centralized management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated software applications are used for coordination in small-scale manufacturing plants, then coordination functionality is achieved, but engineering efforts and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a universal authorization module that can be deployed across multiple different subsystems and applications without requiring separate dedicated software for each coordination scenario. This multi-functional approach allows small-scale manufacturing plants to achieve coordination functionality through a standardized, reusable component rather than custom-engineered solutions for each case.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables flexible configuration of authorization parameters and rules that can be adjusted to suit different coordination needs without changing the underlying software architecture. This parameter-based configurability allows the same core system to adapt to various coordination scenarios, reducing engineering efforts and costs for small-scale implementations.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, the present disclosure discloses a method and a module for controlling data transfer in a manufacturing plant. The IoT module is configured to receive a request for a plurality of parameters from a second application from one or more applications. The request is made by a first application from the one or more applications. The IoT module determines status of the requested parameters. The status indicates if the requested parameters are authorized for sharing. Further, the IoT module transfers only the authorized parameters to the first module based on the status. Thus, the present disclosure provides a method and a IoT module for sharing data securely within the manufacturing plant.