An Architecture for System-Wide Fault Detection and Isolation

A novel approach to distributed fault detection and isolation (FDI) is presented. Consideration is given to an appropriate architecture and communication method for a truly distributed FDI system. As part of the discussion on system architecture, regard is given to the correct level at which fault detection, diagnosis and isolation should be carried out. The case study of an automatic door as part of a building automation system is presented. Recognized faults are induced on the asset and detection methods formulated. It is demonstrated that, by implementing the fault detection algorithms at a lower level, it is possible to carry out FDI over a system consisting of many assets. This allows maintenance staff more precise information regarding the health of the whole system and allows system-wide isolation and in-depth diagnostics to be applied in the event of a fault being detected. The architecture discussed allows the implementation of system-wide FDI at a fraction of the cost of stand-alone systems.