Self-Orchestrating Network for Automated Facility Node Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual installation and configuration of processing nodes in hierarchical control systems for facilities are labor-intensive, costly, and prone to human error, leading to potential system malfunctions and data security compromises.
Innovation Solution
A self-orchestrating control scheme is implemented, where nodes automatically activate as observer agents to form clusters, assign roles, and orchestrate work orders, reducing the need for manual labor and minimizing errors by automating the commissioning and deployment of processing systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual installation and configuration of processing nodes is used, then system setup can be performed with basic hardware and software, but labor costs and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring nodes with self-orchestration capabilities before deployment. Each node is pre-programmed with the ability to automatically discover other nodes, assign roles, and configure itself without manual intervention. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for time-consuming manual commissioning while maintaining basic hardware requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through automated node commissioning where nodes autonomously perform configuration tasks. The system automatically discovers nodes, assigns master/worker roles based on predefined criteria, and configures communication protocols without human intervention. This self-service mechanism dramatically reduces both labor costs and commissioning time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual node assignment and reprogramming is performed, then system configuration can be customized, but human errors increase leading to system malfunctions and security vulnerabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing automated validation mechanisms that verify node configurations and role assignments. The system continuously monitors node states and compares them against expected configurations, automatically detecting and correcting deviations. This feedback loop maintains system reliability while preserving configurability through automated adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses self-service to eliminate human error in node configuration. Nodes automatically assign roles based on predefined algorithms that consider node capabilities, network position, and system requirements. This automated self-configuration maintains system adaptability while ensuring consistent, error-free deployment that enhances reliability.
3Reliability
If manual commissioning of processing nodes is used, then basic system functionality can be achieved, but labor costs and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated node commissioning and self-healing mechanisms. Nodes automatically perform configuration, role assignment, and fault detection without manual intervention. This reduces deployment costs by eliminating specialized installation labor while maintaining full system functionality through autonomous operation and self-diagnosis capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring nodes with diagnostic and self-configuration capabilities before deployment. Nodes are pre-programmed with the knowledge needed to automatically join the network, assign roles, and configure communication protocols. This preliminary preparation reduces maintenance costs by enabling nodes to self-diagnose and self-correct issues without requiring expensive specialized service.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are various clusters. A cluster comprises processing nodes that have supervisory roles and subordinate roles. A node in the cluster can have a supervisory or a subordinate role. The cluster can self-orchestrate its roles. The roles of the nodes can be assigned and/or reassigned (e.g., autonomously and/or automatically) by the cluster. Such system may achieve automatic commissioning of the cluster(s), e.g., in a facility.