Cloud-Based NDT User Profile Authentication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional non-destructive testing (NDT) systems face inefficiencies in data sharing and collaboration, relying on physical media or slow communication methods, which hinder the speed and effectiveness of equipment inspection and maintenance processes.

Innovation Solution

A distributed NDT system utilizing cloud computing and mobile devices for user authentication, profile-based operation, and data sharing, enabling wireless communication and remote control of inspection devices, such as borescopes and PTZ cameras, to enhance data gathering, analysis, and collaboration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If physical portable memory devices are used for data sharing, then data can be transferred between NDT personnel, but the data sharing speed is limited by the physical dispatch speed of the devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata sharing speedVSAvoidtime to share data
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical portable memory device dispatch with an electronic data transmission system. NDT personnel can share data electronically through the system's communication infrastructure, eliminating the need to physically move memory devices between locations. This substitution of electronic communication for mechanical transport directly resolves the contradiction by enabling faster data sharing without being constrained by physical dispatch speeds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If user profiles are not restricted, then NDT devices can be freely operated, but system security and access control are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice operation freedomVSAvoidsystem security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a user profile system that provides feedback-based access control. When a user attempts to operate an NDT device or access data, the system automatically verifies the user's credentials and permissions, then either grants or denies access based on pre-defined security rules. This automated feedback mechanism maintains system security while allowing legitimate users to operate devices freely within their authorized scope, resolving the contradiction between operational freedom and security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If cloud computing is implemented, then data sharing and remote operation capabilities are enhanced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata sharing capabilityVSAvoidsystem architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal cloud-based platform that serves multiple functions: data storage, data sharing, remote device operation, user authentication, and profile management. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional cloud system, the patent enhances adaptability and versatility while avoiding the complexity that would arise from implementing separate systems for each function. The cloud platform acts as a universal interface that simplifies the overall system architecture despite its comprehensive capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2939172B1Systems and methods for non-destructive testing user profiles
Publication Date: 2020.07.22 GENERAL ELECTRIC CO
  • EP2939172B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2939172B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2939172B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A non-transitory computer readable medium may include executable instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to authenticate a user, and to retrieve a user profile based on the user. The instructions further cause the processor to apply the user profile to restrict an operation of a non-destructive testing (NDT) device.