Secure framework for implementing distributed networked control systems with mobile observers using heterogeneous controllers

Abstract

In this dissertation, a framework for the development and analysis of low-cost monitoring and control systems for a set of distributed nodes comprising of dissimilar controllers is presented. The ability to connect multiple disparate processors, is possible due to the use of a secure minimalistic custom communication protocol. This architecture allows the use of mobile devices to interact with the main features of the system for monitoring and control. The server is at the core the overall framework, which enables the transparent development of data acquisition, processing and control models using a software interface. These models automatically translate to functional systems executed by all microprocessors available to the system. The framework contains software libraries that allows the integration of neural networks and fuzzy logic that permit the implementation of intelligent data acquisition and control systems.

The random behavior of the underlying communication network is modeled in real-time to automatically compensate for the delays and lost packages in the execution of control actions.

The framework enables a mapping of system inputs and outputs to state variables. These variables can then be used to form a system model to enable classical control theory analysis, such as controllability, observability and stability test.