Load Control Configuration Backup via Isolated Network Relay
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems lack an efficient method for generating and storing backups of configuration information without impacting ongoing operations and ensuring security by isolating communication with a server.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a processor and memory configured to receive messages, determine trigger points, communicate with network devices to request and manage backups, and generate signatures for stored files, allowing for secure backup generation and storage without direct communication with the server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the load control system communicates directly with the server for backup operations, then the backup process can be initiated and managed, but the system security is compromised and ongoing operations may be disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component that acts as a buffer between the load control system and the server. This intermediary receives backup requests from the server, manages the backup process locally, and then communicates with the server. This mediator approach allows the system to maintain security by not exposing direct access to the load control system while still enabling backup operations through the intermediary layer.
2Productivity
If the backup process is initiated during ongoing system operations, then the backup can be performed without stopping system functions, but the system complexity increases due to concurrent process management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the system continuously monitor for backup trigger conditions and prepare backup data in advance. When a backup is needed, the data is already prepared and staged, allowing the actual backup transfer to occur efficiently without disrupting ongoing operations. The trigger-based approach means backup preparation happens proactively before the backup is actually needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic action through trigger points that initiate backup operations at predetermined intervals or when specific conditions are met. This periodic monitoring and trigger-based execution allows backups to occur systematically without requiring continuous system intervention, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining operational continuity.
3Loss of information
If the system generates backups frequently to ensure data freshness, then the backup data remains current, but the communication overhead with the server increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load control system performs self-service by autonomously determining when backups are needed based on internal trigger conditions rather than requiring constant server-initiated requests. The system monitors its own state, identifies when configuration changes occur or when trigger points are reached, and initiates backup operations independently. This self-service approach reduces communication overhead with the server while ensuring data freshness through condition-based backup triggering.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for generating a backup of configuration information files at a system controller and storing this backup at a server via the use of a network device.