Tele Service Server for Secure Machine Software Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Software maintenance for industrial machines often results in costly downtime due to inconvenient updates and security concerns related to remote access, as source files are not readily available and secure connections are difficult to establish, leading to inefficiencies and potential service failures.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a Tele Service Server (TSS) to establish a secure communication tunnel via a VPN connection, allowing remote and secure updates of machine control programs, with the TSS hosting application software to compile and store source file updates, enabling secure access and backup, thus eliminating the need for on-site engineering software installation and ensuring up-to-date software availability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the engineering computer connects remotely to the system, then the update process can be performed remotely, but the connection cannot be secure and cannot go through firewalls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Tele Service Server (TSS) as an intermediary component that mediates between the engineering computer and the machine controller. The TSS establishes secure connections through firewalls by initiating outgoing connections from the machine controller to the TSS, which then facilitates the transfer of source files and compiled programs. This intermediary approach enables secure remote access while maintaining firewall security policies.
2Ease of manufacture
If the source files are updated on the engineering computer, then the machine controller can receive updates, but the machine controller must be stopped to receive the update
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by allowing the machine controller to maintain a persistent connection to the TSS and continuously download updated source files before actual compilation is needed. The system pre-loads updated source files onto the machine controller or makes them readily available through the secure connection, so that when updates are required, the machine controller can apply them without interruption to its operation. This eliminates the need to stop the machine for software updates.
3Ease of operation
If the engineering software is installed on the user's computer, then the user can perform updates, but the user must buy and install engineering software
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the machine controller to autonomously connect to the TSS, download updated source files, and apply updates without requiring the user to install or manage engineering software. The machine controller performs the update operations independently through the secure tele service connection, eliminating the complexity of software installation for end users while maintaining full update capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for maintaining a machine control program includes a machine controller including a machine program stored on computer media and configured to control a machine. A router is coupled to the machine controller. A server is coupled to the router to establish communications between the machine controller and an entity that provides source file updates or changes to the machine program such that the server hosts application software needed to compile the source file updates or changes wherein compiled source files are accessible by the machine controller over a secure link to the server.