Remote Machine Support With Permission-Gated Operation Range

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current remote operation systems for industrial machinery lack adequate safety measures, risking on-site worker safety and data security due to unauthorized access and operations by remote operators who may not fully understand the on-site situation.

Innovation Solution

A remote support system that allows a user to control and permit or deny remote operation of an industrial machine's control device through a separate information processing terminal, setting a specific range of control to prevent unauthorized access and ensure on-site safety, with the remote terminal only able to operate within the defined range.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If remote operation is allowed without permission control, then response speed to machine troubles is improved, but safety against unauthorized access and on-site accidents deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponse timeVSAvoidsafety
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary authentication and permission granting before allowing remote operation. The on-site operator must explicitly approve the remote connection request before the remote operator can access the control device, ensuring safety measures are in place before remote control begins.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary permission management mechanism between the remote operator and the control device. The on-site operator acts as an intermediary who controls whether remote access is granted, providing a safety layer that prevents unauthorized operations while allowing legitimate remote support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If full control is granted to remote operator, then troubleshooting capability is improved, but risk of unauthorized operations and data tampering increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetroubleshooting capabilityVSAvoidunauthorized operations
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements local quality control by allowing different levels of access permissions for different operational contexts. The on-site operator can grant specific permissions tailored to the troubleshooting needs while restricting access to critical functions, ensuring that remote operators have only the minimum necessary control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The permission system is dynamic rather than static. Permissions can be adjusted in real-time based on the troubleshooting situation, allowing the on-site operator to grant or revoke access rights as needed. This enables flexible control that adapts to changing operational requirements while maintaining safety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20240402686A1Remote support system
Publication Date: 2024.12.05 FANUC LTD
  • US20240402686A1 patent drawing
  • US20240402686A1 patent drawing
  • US20240402686A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A remote support system includes a control device configured to control an industrial machine, a first information processing terminal connected to the control device directly or via a network line, and a second information processing terminal connected to the control device or the first information processing terminal directly or via the network line. The remote support system is configured so that the first information processing terminal is able to permit/not permit remote operation of the control device or the first information processing terminal from the second information processing terminal.