Service Worker Server Selection for Industrial Control Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing web applications used in industrial control systems face challenges when computing devices are moved between locations, particularly due to unreliable network connectivity, which can prevent connection to local servers and render the operator workplace unavailable.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for automatic selection and optional switchover between servers, utilizing service worker modules to provide a location-specific operator workplace and ensure connectivity even in areas with poor network coverage, by automatically selecting a suitable server from a plurality of servers, including local servers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a web application is used to provide operator workplace in industrial control systems, then ease of operation and accessibility are improved, but reliability of connection to local servers deteriorates when network connectivity is poor or unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The service worker module performs preliminary actions by caching workplace information and server data in advance when network connectivity is available. This cached data is then available for offline use, ensuring the operator workplace remains functional even when network connection to local servers is lost or unreliable.
Solution Approach 2:
The service worker module acts as an intermediary between the web application and the servers. It manages the communication by intercepting requests, checking server availability, and providing cached data when servers are unreachable, thus mediating the connection issues and maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If automatic server selection is implemented to ensure connectivity, then reliability of server connection is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional service worker modules and selection logic
Solution Approach 1:
The service worker module implements self-service by automatically selecting appropriate servers based on predefined selection logic without requiring manual intervention from operators. The system monitors server availability and autonomously switches between servers, reducing the need for complex manual configuration and management interfaces.
3Reliability
If service worker modules are used to cache workplace information for offline use, then reliability of workplace availability is improved, but loss of information increases due to potential data staleness
Solution Approach 1:
The service worker module implements feedback mechanisms to monitor server availability and detect when cached data becomes stale. When servers become available again, the system automatically updates the cached workplace information, ensuring data freshness while maintaining offline availability. This feedback loop balances the trade-off between reliability and information accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for automatic selection of servers includes executing, on a computing device, a web application, the web application configured to provide a location-specific and/or site-specific operator workplace, the operator workplace providing a user interface allowing an operator to interact with an industrial control system at the location and/or site. The method further comprises executing, on the computing device, one or more service worker modules. The service worker modules are configured to provide access to workplace information for providing the operator workplace to the web application, and perform, by means of a selection logic, an automatic selection of a server among a plurality of servers including local servers at the location and/or site.