Network Switch Zero-Touch Provisioning via Embedded Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual configuration of network switches in industrial automation systems is error-prone, time-consuming, and vulnerable to compatibility issues, especially when integrated into other components with physical constraints.
Innovation Solution
A network device with a network switch that accesses non-volatile storage for provisioning data to obtain a baseline configuration, allowing for automated configuration with minimal operator involvement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration approach is used for network switches, then configuration can be performed with basic tools, but the process is error-prone, time-consuming, and vulnerable to compatibility issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring network switch parameters (such as port settings, VLAN configurations, and communication protocols) before the actual network deployment. This allows the network switch to be automatically configured upon installation without requiring manual intervention during the critical network setup phase, thereby reducing both errors and configuration time.
Solution Approach 2:
The network switch is designed to perform self-configuration by automatically reading and applying pre-configured parameters from its own memory or embedded storage. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual configuration by operators, significantly reducing human error and configuration time while maintaining high reliability.
2Area of stationary object
If network switch is integrated into other components, then space efficiency is improved, but additional physical constraints and configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the network switch functionality with other industrial automation components (such as PLCs, I/O modules, or power supplies) into a single integrated unit. This consolidation reduces the physical space required while the integrated design automatically handles the additional configuration requirements through unified parameter sets that address both the host component and network switch requirements simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated component is designed with universal configuration parameters that serve multiple functions - the same configuration data structure handles both the host component settings and the embedded network switch settings. This multi-functionality approach simplifies the overall configuration process despite the increased integration, as a single configuration procedure manages all aspects of the integrated unit.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration is performed, then flexibility in customization is maintained, but error-proneness and vulnerability to compatibility issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains configuration flexibility through pre-configured parameter templates that can be customized for different network topologies and protocols. These templates are prepared in advance but allow for adaptation to specific requirements, while the automated application process ensures high reliability by eliminating manual configuration errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses configuration templates and parameter copies that can be replicated across multiple network switches. These standardized copies ensure consistency and reliability across the network while still allowing for customization through template selection and modification, thereby maintaining both flexibility and high configuration reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A network device for an automation system includes a network switch, wherein the network device is configured to access non-volatile storage to which the network device is communicatively coupled to obtain provisioning data for the network switch, wherein the provisioning data comprises data enabling the network device to obtain at least a baseline configuration for the network switch. The provisioning data comprises data enabling the network device comprising the network switch to obtain the at least baseline configuration for the network switch.