Proxy Module for Non-Deterministic Process Control Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Process control systems face challenges in integrating deterministic and non-deterministic algorithms, requiring separate design models due to the unpredictable nature of operations like data processing and disk access, leading to increased costs and complexity.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that allow non-deterministic execution within a process control system by using a proxy module to manage and synchronize process control values and result values between deterministic and non-deterministic environments, enabling seamless integration without disrupting the deterministic nature of the system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a deterministic process control system is used, then system reliability and predictability are improved, but the ability to execute non-deterministic operations (such as large data processing or disk access) deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem reliabilityVSAvoidability to execute non-deterministic operations
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides control processes into deterministic and non-deterministic components. Deterministic processes execute within fixed time cycles for reliability, while non-deterministic processes (such as large data processing or disk access operations) are separated and executed independently, allowing each segment to operate in its optimal mode without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A proxy module acts as an intermediary between the deterministic process control environment and non-deterministic processes. The proxy receives requests from the deterministic environment, queues them appropriately, and executes or forwards them to non-deterministic processes, buffering the interaction so that non-deterministic execution does not disrupt deterministic timing requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If separate design models are used for deterministic and non-deterministic algorithms, then execution reliability is improved, but system complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexecution reliabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges deterministic and non-deterministic process execution within a single integrated control environment. While maintaining distinct execution pathways for reliability, the system allows both types of processes to coexist and interact through standardized interfaces, eliminating the need for completely separate design models and reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The process control environment is designed with universal capabilities to handle both deterministic and non-deterministic processes through a common architecture. The proxy module and execution framework provide multi-functional support, allowing the same system to manage time-critical deterministic operations and flexible non-deterministic operations without requiring separate dedicated systems.

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

Data Source

PatentUS7552439B2System and method to allow non-deterministic execution in a process control system
Publication Date: 2009.06.23 HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC
  • US7552439B2 patent drawing
  • US7552439B2 patent drawing
  • US7552439B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method includes receiving at least one process control value from a deterministic process control environment according to an execution cycle of the deterministic process control environment. The method also includes providing the at least one process control value to a non-deterministic process according to an execution cycle of the non-deterministic process. The execution cycle of the non-deterministic process does not correspond to the execution cycle of the deterministic process control environment.