Workpiece Bidding for Secure Dynamic Processing Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

In decentralized, self-organizing production systems like Cyber Physical Production Systems, static access rules cannot effectively prevent improper access to resources, and dynamic resource allocation is limited to central control, which is not suitable for flexible production sequences controlled by workpieces.

Innovation Solution

A method where objects to be processed, such as workpieces, bid for processing steps using a credit-based system, with the availability result determining access to production units, enabling dynamic and secure allocation of resources through an auction-like mechanism, preventing unauthorized access and optimizing production processes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If static access rules are used to control resource access in production systems, then security and access control are maintained, but flexibility and adaptability for dynamic production sequences are lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess control securityVSAvoiddynamic production sequence flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic access control by enabling workpieces to autonomously bid for processing steps and resources in real-time. The system transitions from static, pre-defined access rules to a dynamic market-based mechanism where access rights are allocated based on current production needs, bids, and resource availability. This allows the production sequence to flexibly adapt while maintaining controlled access through the bidding process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables workpieces to independently control their own production sequences by autonomously bidding for required processing steps and resources. Each workpiece acts as an independent agent that self-manages its production needs without centralized control, thereby achieving both security through structured bidding and flexibility through autonomous decision-making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If centralized production planning and control are used for dynamic resource allocation, then resource distribution is optimized, but system complexity and central control requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource allocation efficiencyVSAvoidcentral control system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the centralized control function into distributed autonomous agents at the workpiece level. Instead of a single central planning system, each workpiece independently manages its own resource allocation through bidding. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex centralized control infrastructure while maintaining efficient resource allocation through market-based mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transfers resource allocation decision-making from centralized control to self-service autonomous workpieces. Each workpiece independently bids for and secures its required resources without external intervention, thereby achieving efficient resource distribution while dramatically reducing system complexity and eliminating the need for central control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If workpieces independently control their production sequences in decentralized systems, then flexibility and autonomy are improved, but security risks and improper access to resources increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkpiece autonomyVSAvoidresource access security
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a market-based bidding mechanism as an intermediary layer between autonomous workpieces and production resources. This intermediary structure enables workpieces to independently control their production sequences while securing resources through transparent, rule-based bidding processes. The bidding mechanism acts as a mediator that maintains security and prevents improper access while preserving workpiece autonomy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Stability of the object's composition

If fixed production lines with predefined sequences are used, then system stability and simplicity are maintained, but adaptability to changing production requirements is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction system stabilityVSAvoidproduction sequence flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms fixed, predefined production sequences into dynamic, adaptive processes. Workpieces autonomously bid for processing steps in real-time, allowing production sequences to dynamically adjust based on current resource availability, production priorities, and changing requirements. This maintains system stability through structured bidding while enabling continuous adaptation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of production sequence control from fixed and static to variable and dynamic. By implementing market-based bidding, the system allows production parameters such as resource allocation, processing order, and timing to continuously adapt based on real-time conditions, thereby achieving both stability through structured processes and flexibility through variable parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10928808B2Enabling a processing step for an object to be processed
Publication Date: 2021.02.23 SIEMENS AG
  • US10928808B2 patent drawing
  • US10928808B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a method and an arrangement for enabling a processing step for an object that is to be processed, wherein an availability result, which indicates an availability of the processing step, is determined for the processing step on the basis of rules.