Dynamic Safety Analysis Research Topic 4.2
Smart Factory Grids (SFGs) represent the next generation of industrial networks. These networks consist of specialized Micro Manufacturing Units (MMUs), each dedicated to specific tasks such as 3-D printing or assembly. MMUs can communicate seamingless and exchange information such as the current production progress and the available capacity. This interconnectivity allows for the dynamic allocation of MMUs based on their availability and functionality, overcoming the current rigid production process. As a result, SFGs deliver a level of flexibility and customization that can adapt to the unique demands of individual production processes.
The functionality of SFGs is supplemented by the integration of mobile devices, e.g., flying drones and moving robots. These devices facilitate the material transport between MMUs, ensuring a continuous and efficient production workflow.
However, the success of SFGs relies on secure, high-performing, and robust communication between MMUs and mobile devices. The increased connectivity and dynamic nature of these networks increase their exposure to potential cyber threats. Addressing these vulnerabilities requires innovative security solutions that protect against cyberattacks while preserving the performance and robustness of the network. These solutions must balance robust security measures within the dynamic nature of SFGs.
Challenges
Modern manufacturing facilities fulfill the security, robustness, and performance requirements of their networks by maintaining a strict separation between production environments and other IT networks. This isolation ensures reliable and secure communication, especially for time-sensitive control traffic between robots and control systems.
The transition towards Smart Factory Grids (SFGs), and the increasing communication between Micro Manufacturing Units (MMUs) and mobile devices like flying drones and ground-based robots, enhances the attack surface. This transition introduces new security challenges to the network.
Traditional firewall rules, which rely on static configurations, often fall short in such dynamic environments. Network security systems must adapt to continuously changing relationships between devices. Additionally, mobile devices perform roaming operations, transitioning between different wireless access points within the network. These transitions alter communication paths, requiring a more flexible and adaptive network architecture to maintain security standards and ensure uninterrupted operations.
Future industrial networks must address these challenges by incorporating dynamic and scalable solutions that balance security with operational performance in interconnected production systems.
Research Approach
Our research unit focuses on the network security and performance of dynamic environments, such as those anticipated in SFGs. An initial area of exploration involves the development of Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs). Additionally, we are investigating methods for the dynamic allocation of firewall rules, ensuring robust security and efficiency even in constantly evolving network topologies.
Another critical aspect of our research is the optimization of roaming processes, which involve devices transitioning between different network access points. By improving both the speed and security of these transitions, we aim to provide seamless support for mobile devices in dynamic networks.
Furthermore, potential performance bottlenecks arising from the increasing number of devices and higher mobility within the network are being optimized. In this context, the exploration of new technology standards, such as WiFi-7, plays a key role.
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