Interoperable Intelligent Controllers for Process Management and Control Networks

NASA Johnson Space Center developed reprogrammable and interchangeable electronic controllers that can attach to a system or subsystem wirelessly or through plug-and-play capability. Originally designed to work with rocket engines, this technology can control different systems and subsystems. This smart controller recognizes which system it is communicating with once connected to the network and loads the appropriate application to perform the required function in the system. The device enables a common set of spares and can talk to other devices of its kind by relaying information and instructions to other controllers. A prototype can be easily developed using low-cost solutions such as Raspberry Pi to demonstrate functionality.