WO2019070841A1

WO2019070841A1 - Central monitoring system of exothermic reactors

Info

Publication number: WO2019070841A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/054144
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jason Wayne KEMP
Original assignee: Ih Ip Holdings Limited; DAMERON, Thomas, Barker
Priority date: 2017-10-04
Filing date: 2018-10-03
Publication date: 2019-04-11

Abstract

A plurality of exothermic -reaction devices are connected to a central monitoring system (CMS) over a network. The devices send periodic check-in reports that include an Integrated Power Ratio, which indicates whether the device is operating sub-optimally, optimally, or unsafely. If the periodic reports are not delivered to the CMS, the devices may use an adjacent device as a relay device or may enter a self-protection mode until communication is re-established.

Description

DESCRIPTION

CENTRAL MONITORING SYSTEM OF EXOTHERMIC REACTORS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional patent application no. 62/568,039, titled "Central Monitoring System for Exothermic Reactors," filed on October 4, 2017, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Embodiments described herein relate generally to systems and methods for remote monitoring of exothermic reactors, and more specifically, to a central monitoring system of exothermic reactors.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Exothermic-reaction devices use exothermic reactions to generate energy. Industrial-scale exothermic-reaction devices, such as nuclear- fission reactors and fossil-fuel reactors, generate heat but do not generate excess energy. Smaller-scale exothermic-reaction devices may individually generate excess energy, but there is no way of monitoring multiple of these types of devices or capturing any excess energy generated. In many cases, exothermic-reaction devices are located in isolated and/or rugged environments. These devices, however, are not connected to a central monitoring system ("CMS") as part of a larger power-generation network.

[0004] Central monitoring systems are currently used in various contexts, such as conventional commercial power-generation systems, home HVAC control systems, and facility security systems. Components that are part of a CMS, such as devices, sensors, contacts, camera systems, etc., transmit and receive information using a variety of communications means, such as closed-loop circuits, wireless networks, wired networks, satellite communications and radio frequencies, among others.

[0005] Accordingly, a need exists for a CMS network that connects a plurality of exothermic-reaction devices that generate excess energy.

SUMMARY

[0006] The present invention provides systems and methods for a central monitoring system for exothermic -reaction devices. Devices that are part of the CMS send reports to the CMS that include one or more parameters of the device, including, for example, the Integrated Power Ratio. The Integrated Power Ratio is a parameter that measures the performance of an exothermic -reaction device and can be used to detect whether a device is not functioning, operating in a sub-optimal zone, operating in an optimal zone, or operating in an unsafe zone. If the Integrated Power Ratio of an exothermic-reaction device is less than 1, then the device is not functioning properly and the device and/or the CMS will take one or more appropriate maintenance and/or corrective actions. If the Integrated Power Ratio is greater than 1 but below a predetermined minimum threshold, then the device may not be operating optimally but can be fine-tuned, either remotely or on-site, to improve its performance. If the Integrated Power Ratio is between a predetermined minimum threshold and a predetermined maximum threshold, the device is operating normally and no alarm or action is needed. If the device is operating beyond the established maximum operational threshold (i.e., in the "unsafe" zone), the device and/or the CMS will take appropriate action(s) to protect the device and prevent harm.

[0007] If the CMS does not receive expected reports from a particular device, then the CMS may take action remedy the problem. Similarly, if a particular device does not receive an acknowledgement from the CMS that its reports have been received, the device may take action to remedy the problem.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a central monitoring system for monitoring a plurality of exothermic -reaction devices is disclosed. The central monitoring system includes a server, which includes a processor, a database for storing performance parameters associated with the plurality of exothermic -reaction devices, and a communications interface. The central monitoring system further includes a plurality of exothermic-reaction devices, which each include an exothermic reactor, a processor, an auxiliary power supply, a location detector, a transceiver; and a plurality of sensors for measuring performance parameters of the exothermic -reaction device.

[0009] In one embodiment of the central monitoring system, the plurality of sensors includes a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, and a power sensor.

[0010] In one embodiment of the central monitoring system, the performance parameters include performance fault monitoring and localization data.

[0011] In one embodiment of the central monitoring system, the performance parameters include an Integrated Power Ratio. [0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method is disclosed for monitoring a plurality of exothermic-reaction devices connected to a central monitoring system over a network. The method includes receiving a check-in report from an exothermic-reaction device on a periodic basis, wherein the check- in report includes an identification number of the reporting exothermic -reaction device, an operational status of the reporting device, performance data of the reporting device, a time that a previous check-in report was sent, a time stamp for the check-in report; and an expiration time for the check-in report. The method further includes determining whether the exothermic -reaction device is operating within normal parameters based on the performance data. The method further includes storing the check-in report in a database associated with the CMS if the exothermic- reaction device is operating within normal parameters. The method further includes querying the device for an advanced report if the exothermic-reaction device is not operating within normal parameters.

[0013] In one embodiment of the method, the performance data includes an Integrated Power Ratio.

[0014] In one embodiment, the method further includes determining that the exothermic- reaction device is operating sub-optimally when the Integrated Power Ratio is greater than 1 and less than a predetermined threshold value.

[0015] In one embodiment, the method further includes determining that the exothermic- reaction device is operating optimally when the Integrated Power Ratio is greater than a first predetermined threshold value and less than a second predetermined threshold value.

[0016] In one embodiment, the method further includes determining that the exothermic- reaction device is operating unsafely when the Integrated Power Ratio is greater than a predetermined threshold, wherein the threshold represents a maximum tested safe limit of the exothermic-reaction device.

[0017] In one embodiment, the method further includes sending a command over the network to the exothermic-reaction device to safely shut down the exothermic -reaction device.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method is disclosed for operation of an exothermic-reaction device that is part of a central monitoring system (CMS). The method includes generating a check-in report that includes an Integrated Power Ratio for the exothermic-reaction device. The method further includes sending the check-in report to the CMS upon expiration of a periodic interval. The method further includes waiting a predetermined amount of time to receive an acknowledgement from the CMS indicating that the check-in report was successfully received. The method incrementing a counter indicating an unsuccessful attempt if the acknowledgement is not received within the predetermined amount of time. The method further includes attempting to establish a communication link to the CMS using an adjacent exothermic -reaction device as a relay device if the counter indicating unsuccessful attempts exceeds a predetermined threshold within a predetermined duration.

[0019] In one embodiment, the method further includes communicating with the CMS via the relay device if the attempt to establish the communication link to the CMS using the adjacent exothermic -reaction device is successful.

[0020] In one embodiment, the method further includes entering an autonomous mode if the attempt to establish the communication link to the CMS using the adjacent exothermic- reaction device is unsuccessful.

[0021] In one embodiment the method further includes generating a subsequent check-in report upon a subsequent expiration of the periodic interval.

[0022] In one embodiment, the method further includes entering a self -protect mode if the attempt to establish the communication link to the CMS using the adjacent exothermic- reaction device is unsuccessful.

[0023] In one embodiment, the method further includes switching from self-protect mode to a normal-operations mode upon receiving a command from the CMS, wherein the command includes a decryption key.

[0024] The features and advantages described in this summary and the following detailed description are not all-inclusive. Many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings, specification, and claims presented herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The present embodiments are illustrated by way of example and are not intended to be limited by the figures of the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0026] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary system for connectivity of exothermic -reaction devices and a CMS. [0027] FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary design of an exothermic -reaction device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary device check-in report sent from an exothermic- reaction device to the CMS.

[0029] FIG. 4A depicts a flowchart showing an exemplary process used by an exothermic-reaction device for generating and sending periodic check-in reports to the CMS.

[0030] FIG. 4B depicts a flowchart showing an exemplary process used by the CMS process for receiving and processing periodic check-in reports from exothermic -reaction devices that are part of the CMS.

[0031] FIG. 4C depicts a flowchart showing an exemplary process used by the CMS for processing reports from exothermic -reaction devices that are part of the CMS.

[0032] FIG. 5A depicts a flowchart showing an exemplary process used by an exothermic-reaction device when the device detects that its operating parameters exceed a particular performance envelope.

[0033] FIG. 5B depicts a flowchart showing an exemplary process used by an exothermic-reaction device to monitor the device's internal data.

[0034] FIG. 5C depicts an example of an aspect of an exothermic-reaction device's PMFL report showing Integrated Power Ratio.

[0035] FIG. 5D depicts an example of an aspect of an exothermic-reaction device's PMFL report showing various reporting data.

[0036] FIG. 5E depicts an example of a graph of an exothermic -reaction device's PMFL data over a reporting period.

[0037] FIG. 6A depicts a flowchart of an exemplary process of operations of an exothermic-reaction device.

[0038] FIG. 6B shows a flowchart of an exemplary process of operations of the CMS.

[0039] FIG. 6C depicts a flowchart of an exemplary process for an exothermic -reaction device that is an "isolated device" to use an adjacent device as a relay.

[0040] FIG. 6D depicts a flowchart of an exemplary process for an exothermic -reaction device that is an "isolated device" to enter a self -protection mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The following description and figures are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. In certain instances, however, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description. References to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" in the present disclosure may be (but are not necessarily) references to the same embodiment, and such references mean at least one of the embodiments.

[0042] Reference in this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

[0043] The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used to describe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in the specification, to provide additional guidance to the practitioner regarding the description of the disclosure. It will be appreciated that same thing can be said in more than one way.

[0044] Alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein, nor is any special significance to be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification, including examples of any terms discussed herein, is illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification.

[0045] Without intent to limit the scope of the disclosure, examples of instruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control.

[0046] As will be described in greater detail below with reference to the figures, the subject matter described herein provides new systems and methods for a central monitoring system for exothermic-reaction devices. Exothermic reactions are reactions that release heat, and exothermic-reaction devices are devices that capture the heat from an exothermic reaction to generate energy.

[0047] As used herein, "exothermic-reaction device" refers a system comprised of an exothermic reactor and one or more control and monitoring components for the reactor. As used herein, "reactor" and/or "exothermic reactor" refers to the chamber within the device where an exothermic reaction occurs. The control and monitoring components of an exothermic-reaction device may include (but are not limited to) a processor (CPU), transmitters, receivers, data connections, location-detection devices, and various other components, as will be understood by a person of skill in the art. Each device includes hardware that controls the device and the reaction.

[0048] Exothermic-reaction devices in accordance with this disclosure include a Performance Monitoring and Fault Localization ("PMFL"), which refers to a sub-system of sensors that monitor and control the reactor in an exothermic-reaction device. The PMFL system is a data-collection system that is remotely accessible by the CMS.

[0049] Exothermic-reaction devices in accordance with this disclosure provide excess energy to their host appliances or applications.

[0050] The devices, regardless of type, model, or series (generation), may be integrated into a broader network (e.g., an Internet of Things ("IoT") network) via a CMS. The broader network may be an IoT network, which may encompass a mixture of hardware, software, data, and service that allows for complementary and overlapping networks and systems to connect to one another and integrate with one another. The devices are connected to and communicate with a CMS over any type of appropriate connection (e.g, a network connection, an Internet of Things ("IoT") network, etc.), which allows for the device to be monitored and enabled/disabled remotely. Each device "checks-in" with a CMS. Devices are ubiquitous technology, distributed across the globe providing power at micro and macro scales. [0051] Different types, models, and series of exothermic-reaction devices may have various embodiments of hardware. For example, with respect to type, some devices may be stationary (e.g., commercial/industrial, high-density housing complexes, single family dwellings) and some may be mobile (e.g., airplanes, surface ships, automobiles, space-craft, and personal accessories transported on persons). With respect to model, different models may be used in different operational environments and have associated differences in performance standards, communication suites, and hardware/software combinations. Some models will exclusively use wireless (e.g., WiFi) connections, whereas some models will have embodiments that augment the communications suite to allow for radio frequency (RF) communication, use of cellular and mobile networks, satellite communication links, wired Ethernet connections, etc. With respect to series, different "generations" of products may include successive design improvements and modifications (e.g., denoted by a series designator, such as a, b, c, etc.).

[0052] Exothermic-reaction devices and the CMS in accordance with this disclosure may be integrated into a broader IoT network or they may be contained within their own network, but they also maintain the ability to transmit and receive data by alternate means, such as radio frequency, satellite communications, or other emergent communication technologies.

[0053] The connected system of devices and a CMS may exploit the strength of the IoT network and provides technical means for devices and nodes beyond wired and wireless IoT networks to send and receive information. The deliberately- scheduled periodic connectivity between each device and the CMS allows for safe operation (e.g., by detecting a runaway reactor), prevention of theft and reverse engineering, and enablement of data aggregation to optimize performance across the fleet. The CMS will expect and report integration of devices within its domain. The devices will consistently seek connectivity with the CMS.

[0054] The systems discussed in this disclosure assume some type of connectivity. For example, the systems may connect to the broader IoT network using wireless (e.g., WiFi or cellular) technology. As the telecommunications industry advances, however, the devices will be able to host emergent technologies. Diagrams that depict transmitters and receivers assume a general data communication link between the device and the CMS.

[0055] The specific programming language controlling device and CMS actions will vary by type, model, and/or series. [0056] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary system for connectivity of exothermic -reaction devices and a CMS.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 1, exothermic -reaction devices 101A-101F are connected to CMS 100. These connections may be independent connections or they may be part of an IoT network 111. As various types, models, and series of exothermic-reaction devices are deployed to isolated, rugged extreme environments (e.g., underwater, underground, inner and outer space, etc.), redundant means of transmitting data and receiving commands prevent unsafe runaway devices and accounts for the fleet of devices and the CMS that supports and controls them.

[0058] For example, each exothermic-reaction device 101A-101F may use one or more communications mediums, such as WiFi connection 102, cellular connection 103, RF connection 104, wired connection 105, satellite connection 106, or a connection provided by an emergent technology 107.

[0059] For each exothermic-reaction device, the CMS uses data collected from the PMFL system of sensors to determine what, if any, actions it needs to take to maintain safe operation of the device and protect it against tampering (e.g., reverse-engineering).

[0060] The CMS may use standardized data associated with each different type, model, and series of device for comparison of the PMFL data.

[0061] CMS 100 may comprise one or more servers 112. Each server may comprise at least one processor 109 and a database 110. A person of skill in the art will recognize that CMS 100 may be distributed across one or more physical devices, such as server 112, or may be maintained in the "cloud." Database 110 may include information relating to the exothermic-reaction devices 101A-101F. CMS 100 may comprise a communication interface 108. The communication interface 108 may comprise one or more means of communication.

[0062] FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary design of an exothermic-reaction device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0063] In exothermic-reaction device 201, the exothermic reactor 202 captures excess heat from an exothermic reaction to supply power to a broader electric grid. The heat from the exothermic reaction may also be used to supply power to batteries, machines, devices, appliances, and other applications. [0064] Exothermic-reaction device 201 includes a PMFL system 207 that includes sensors located at various collection points in and around the reactor 202 to measure performance parameters and/or performance data of the device. These sensors may include, for example, reactor pressure sensors 208 (ambient and/or internal), reactor temperature sensors 209 (ambient and/or internal), power measurement sensors 210, such as power input(s) to the reactor (e.g., voltage and current), power output(s) from the reactor (e.g., voltage and current), and other outputs from the reactor, such as gases produced, etc. These sensors provide the processor with diagnostic and performance data that may be analyzed by the device and/or the CMS to make decisions regarding the performance, safety, and maintenance of the reactor 202.

[0065] The performance parameters of exothermic -reaction device 201 include data measured and/or collected by the PMFL system, and may be referred to collectively as PMFL data. The performance parameters may include an Integrated Power Ratio of exothermic- reaction device 201.

[0066] Exothermic-reaction device 201 may require input power to initiate the reaction in the reactor 202. In addition, the transceiver 206 requires energy to send and receive information. The processor (CPU) 203 requires electricity to operate. One or more auxiliary power supplies 204 provide continuous power to these components of the device 201 in absence of steady-state reactions (e.g., when the device 201 is turned off or not operating).

[0067] Exothermic-reaction device 201 may include a location detector 205. The location detector 205 relies on reports from parent CMSs, adjacent exothermic-reaction devices, and other inputs, such as satellite signals, network cables, or GPS signals to track and report physical location.

[0068] Exothermic-reaction device 201 includes a processor (CPU) 203. The processor 203 performs data collection, analysis, and command tasks. Those tasks include analyzing data from the sensors, generating reports, and determining the most efficient method of data transmission between the exothermic -reactor device 201 and the CMS. The processor analyzes changes in its geolocation over time (subterranean or beyond planet Earth).

[0069] The processor includes a system clock 211. The system clock 211 is used to trigger the transmission of certain reports and provides a reference for the processor to time- stamp reports as they are sent. In some embodiments, the system clock 211 may be external to the processor 203 but still interface with the processor 203. [0070] Exothermic-reaction device 201 includes one or more transceivers 206, which allows the device 201 to transmit data via wireless or wired connections (e.g., to the CMS and/or the IoT) or receive data via wireless or wired connections (e.g., from the CMS and/or the IoT. As explained in the context of FIG. 1, various types, model, and series devices host other communication platforms, such as radio frequency, satellite communications, and other means across the electromagnetic spectrum (flares, bursts, etc.).

[0071] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary device check-in report sent from an exothermic- reaction device to the CMS.

[0072] The system in accordance with the present disclosure uses a central check-in system in which the devices within the CMS sends periodic check- in reports to the CMS. The central check-in system increases the efficiency and safety across the fleet of exothermic-reaction devices within the system. The increased efficiency and safety comes in the form of reduced maintenance costs, and the ability to identify and remotely shut down runaway devices/units. In addition, the central check- in system increases accountability of devices across the fleet of devices. The increased accountability comes in the form of having near real-time updates of location, status, performance, etc. of the devices.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 3, an exothermic -reaction device sends a check-in report 301 to the CMS. The check-in report 301 may include the device identification number 302, a report number 303, the device's operational status 304, the device's performance data 305, the time the device sent a previous report 306, a time stamp 307 of the current report, and an expiration time 308 of the current report, and any other 309 information that is necessary or helpful.

[0074] Based on the reports 301 provided by each device within the CMS, the CMS will know: (1) which device is providing the report, identified by the device identification number 302; (2) the report number 303 from the device providing the report, which allows the CMS to save and look up previous reports; and (3) the operational status of the device providing the report, as reported in device operational status 304.

[0075] In some embodiments, the device's operational status 304 may include: (1) running; (2) idle; (3) equilibrating; (4) shutting down; (5) off; (6) autonomous mode; (7) self- protection mode; and (8) self-destruction mode.

[0076] When the device's operational status 304 is "running," the device is on and expected to provide excess heat. When the device's operational status 304 is "idle," the device is on and not expected to provide excess heat. When the device's operational status 304 is "equilibrating," the device is calibrating, initializing, and starting a reaction. When the device's operational status 304 is "shutting down," the device is in the process of transitioning from the running/idle/equilibrating operational status to the "off operational status. When the device's operational status 304 is "off," the device is not expected to accept or provide power. When the device's operational status 304 is "autonomous mode," the device will operate for some period of time without communicating to the CMS. When the device's operational status 304 is "self-protection mode," the device senses threatening conditions and establishes a more defensive posture to guard against intrusion and/or tampering. When the device's operational status 304 is "self-destruction mode," the device has detected intrusion and an attempt at theft and is self-destruction.

[0077] The reporting device's performance data 305 may include a number of performance parameters, including, for example, those described in more detail in the context of FIGS. 5C-5E.

[0078] FIG. 4A depicts a flowchart showing an exemplary process used by an exothermic-reaction device for generating and sending periodic check-in reports to the CMS.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 4A, the processor of an exothermic-reaction device monitors the device's system clock (as discussed in the context of FIG. 2) until a certain periodic interval occurs, at step 401. The periodic interval may be predetermined, or it may be adjusted in real-time based on network and/or system conditions. When the periodic interval occurs, the processor generates a check-in report, at step 402. The check-in report generated by the device is of the type described in the context of FIG. 3 and may further include PMFL data of the type described in the context of FIG. 5C-5E.

[0080] At step 403, the device transmits the check-in report to the CMS. At step 404, the device checks to see if the CMS has acknowledged receipt of the check-in report. If the CMS has acknowledged receipt of the check-in report, then the device continues normal operation, at step 407. If the CMS has not acknowledged receipt of the check-in report, then the device checks to see if the number of attempts to send the check-in report to the CMS has exceeded a certain number of attempts within a certain period of time, at step 405. For example, the device may check to see if it has sent the check-in report more than 5 times in the last 30 minutes without receiving an acknowledgement from the CMS. If the number of attempts does not exceed the certain number within the certain period of time, then the device transmits the check- in report again, at step 403. If the number of attempts exceeds (or is equal to) the certain number within the certain period of time, then the device takes appropriate action(s), in step 406. The appropriate action(s) may be, for example, performing a safe shutdown procedure, attempting to establish a link with the CMS using an adjacent device as a relay device, determining that the device is an "isolated" device and entering an autonomous mode until the problem is resolved, determining that the device is an "isolated" device and entering a self-protect mode until the problem is resolved, and/or requesting a service technician to come troubleshoot/inspect/replace the device.

[0081] FIG. 4B depicts a flowchart showing an exemplary process used by the CMS process for receiving and processing periodic check-in reports from exothermic -reaction devices that are part of the CMS.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 4B, the CMS is initiated at step 431. At step 432, the CMS enters an operational state after initiation. When the CMS is operational, it expects to receive periodic check-in reports from all exothermic-reaction devices that are part of the CMS. At step 433, the CMS listens to available communication channels for check-in reports. As explained above in the context of FIG. 1, the CMS may include devices connected over various types of communication channels, such as, for example, a WiFi connection, a cellular connection, an RF connection, a wired connection, a satellite connection, or a connection of any other type of communication technology that is currently emerging or has not yet emerged.

[0083] The CMS monitors incoming messages from the devices that are part of the CMS network to check for, among other things, check-in reports. The CMS checks for whether a check-in report has been received from a device as expected, at step 434. The CMS keeps track of whether a check-in report has been received for each device in the CMS network. If the CMS has not received an expected check-in report from a particular device, the CMS queries that device for a report, at step 437.

[0084] With respect to each device within the CMS network, if the CMS has received an expected check-in report from a particular device, then the CMS checks the report, at step 435, to determine if the report shows that the reporting device is operating within normal parameters.

[0085] If the device is operating within normal parameters, the CMS processes and files the report, and continues its operations, at step 436. [0086] If the device is not operating within normal parameters, the CMS queries the device that sent the problematic report to send an advanced (PMFL) report, at step 438. The advanced report includes more information/detail than the check-in report. At step 439, the CMS receives the advanced report from the device. At step 440, the CMS analyzes the advanced report to determine if the reporting device is operating within key performance parameters/indicators (KPI). If the device is operating within key performance KPI, then the CMS files the advanced report, at step 441. If device is not operating within KPI, the CMS takes one or more appropriate actions as necessary, as step 442. The appropriate actions may include, for example, performing maintenance, continuing operations, changing operational status, or other actions as necessary.

[0087] FIG. 4C depicts a flowchart showing an exemplary process used by the CMS for processing reports from exothermic -reaction devices that are part of the CMS.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 4C, at step 461, the CMS analyzes a report from a device in the CMS network. The report being analyzed may be a device's check-in report, or it may be a device's advanced report or PMFL report. In other embodiments, the report being analyzed may be another type of device.

[0089] At step 462, the CMS determines, based on the received report, whether the reporting device is operating optimally. Whether the device is operating optimally is determined by looking at whether the device is operating in an optimal performance state (within a certain acceptable tolerance). As explained in the context of FIG. 5C, an optimal performance state occurs when the exothermic-reaction device's Integrated Power Ratio is greater than a minimum positive threshold and less than a maximum positive threshold.

[0090] If the reporting device is operating optimally, then the CMS updates its database with that information and continues normal operation, at step 463.

[0091] If the reporting device is not operating optimally, then the CMS diagnoses the reported data against established parameters, at step 464, to determine if there are any issues with the reporting device.

[0092] Based on the diagnosing of the reported data against established parameters, the CMS determines if the reporting device is operating sub-optimally, at 465. Whether the device is operating sub-optimally is determined by looking at how much the reported values vary from the expected or optimal values, and/or whether the reported values fall within a "sub-optimal" performance state or parameters. [0093] If the reporting device is operating sub-optimally, then the CMS determines whether the device is beyond its expected operating life, at step 466. The CMS may determine whether the reporting device is beyond its expected operating life by looking up the installation date of the device and the expected operating life in the CMS database and comparing the two values.

[0094] At step 467, if the reporting device is beyond its expected operating life, the CMS generates a notification to send a service technician to inspect and/or replace the device. The implementation of the notification is a design choice, as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art. In one embodiment, an email notification is sent directly to a service department in charge of the devices on the CMS network. The notification may include information such as the location of the device (which may be pulled, for example, from the device's reports), identifying information about the device (e.g., model, type, series, etc.), and the reported operating parameters from the device's reports. In other embodiments, the notification may occur directly through the CMS system, or by text message or automated phone call.

[0095] At step 468, if the reporting device is not beyond its expected operating life, the CMS generates a notification to send a service technician to inspect the device for defective material or assembly. The implementation of the notification is a design choice, as will be appreciated by one skill in the art.

[0096] At step 469, if the reporting device is not operating sub-optimally, the CMS determines whether the reporting device is operating at unsafe performance parameters. The unsafe performance parameters may be predetermined and stored in the CMS database, or the unsafe performance parameters may be determined in real-time by the CMS.

[0097] If the CMS determines that the reporting device is operating in unsafe performance parameters, then the CMS sends a command to the reporting device (over the existing connection) to perform safe shut-down procedures so that it can safely shut itself down until it can be addressed by a service technician, at step 470. The CMS then goes back to step 467, where it generates a notification to send a service technician to replace the device.

[0098] If the CMS determines that the reporting device is not operating in unsafe performance parameters, then the CMS determines whether the device is responsive, at step 472. The CMS may make this determination, for example, by sending a query to the reporting device and seeing if the reporting device responds to the query. If the reporting device responds, then the CMS determines that the reporting device is responsive. If the reporting device does not respond within a predetermined amount of time, then the CMS assumes that the reporting device is not responsive.

[0099] If the CMS determines that the reporting device is not responsive, then the CMS goes back to step 467, where it generates a notification to send a service technician to replace the device.

[00100] If the CMS determines that the reporting device is responsive, then the CMS goes to step 470, where it commands the device to perform safe-shut down procedures, and then goes to step 467, where it generates a notification to send a service technician to replace the device.

[00101] FIG. 5A depicts a flowchart showing an exemplary process used by an exothermic-reaction device when the device detects that its operating parameters exceed a particular performance envelope.

[00102] At step 501, the exothermic-reaction device is in operation. At step 502, the device detects (via its processor) a potential fault in the device based on the PMFL system being triggered. The PMFL system may be triggered when there is a fault or a potential fault in the system, such as, losing connectivity with the CMS and/or adjacent devices, or when one or more sensors of the device indicates a value that is unexpected. For example, the PMFL system may be triggered by a reactor temperature that is too high or a reactor pressure that is too high. The PMFL system may be triggered when the auxiliary power system drops below a certain amount of remaining power. The PMFL system may be triggered when the fuel level drops below a certain level. The PMFL system may be triggered when the device's location sensor senses that the device has moved outside of its expected location.

[00103] Based on the device's detection of a potential fault, the device (via its processor) can then determine a classification of a fault, at step 503. Exemplary fault classifications include reaction stop, overheating, low water in aqueous systems, gas leak in gaseous systems, security breach detection, etc. Based on the classification of the fault, the device executes a response, at step 504.

[00104] FIG. 5B depicts a flowchart showing an exemplary process used by an exothermic-reaction device to monitor the device's internal data.

[00105] At step 511, the device analyzes the PMFL data, which taken collectively, may be referred to as a PMFL envelope. Based on the analysis of the PMFL envelope, the device determines whether it should shut itself down, at step 512. This determination may be made based on data analysis and performance parameters of the device.

[00106] If the device determines that it must shut itself down, then it goes to step 513, where it generates an emergency shut-down report and sends that emergency shut-down report to the CMS. At step 514, the device shuts down.

[00107] If the device determines that it the device does not need to shut down, the device goes on to step 515, where it continues to operate. At step 516, the device sends a special report to the CMS at the next scheduled time interval.

[00108] FIGS. 5C-5E shows various aspects of a device's performance data and/or performance parameters that are reported by the device to the CMS. Some or all of the performance data/parameters described below may be reported as device performance data 305 as part of a device's check- in report (described in FIG. 3) or as part of a PMFL report, described below.

[00109] FIG. 5C depicts an example of an aspect of an exothermic-reaction device's PMFL report showing Integrated Power Ratio.

[00110] This graph shown in FIG. 5C illustrates the Integrated Power Ratio of an exothermic-reaction device. As explained above, the Integrated Power Ratio shows a relationship between Power In and Power Out of the device. More specifically, the Integrated Power Ratio equals Power Out divided by Power In. A device can be operating in a non-functional zone, a sub-optimal zone, an optimal zone, or an unsafe zone.

[00111] The non-functioning zone 531 is defined as having an Integrated Power Ratio of less than 1. In the non-functioning zone 531, the device is not producing any excess energy. In other words, the power coming out of the device is less than the power going into the device.

[00112] The sub-optimal zone 532 is defined as having an Integrated Power Ratio that is greater than 1 but less than a minimum positive threshold 535. In other words, the device is operating and producing power, but not as much power as it is expected to produce.

[00113] The optimal zone 533 is defined as having an Integrated Power Ratio that is greater than the minimum positive threshold 535 and less than the maximum positive threshold 536. As long as the Integrated Power Ratio stays below the maximum positive threshold, the reaction is considered safe. In other words, the device is operating and producing a safe, expected amount of power.

[00114] The unsafe zone 534 is defined as having an Integrated Power Ratio that is higher than the maximum positive threshold 536. In other words, the Integrated Power Ratio is so high that it shows that the reactor is operating beyond the tested safe limits of the reactor. The specific threshold of the safety zone depends on the type, model, and series of the reactor.

[00115] FIG. 5D depicts an example of an aspect of an exothermic-reaction device's PMFL report showing various reporting data.

[00116] As explained above with reference to FIG. 5C, one aspect of a device's PMFL report includes a device's Integrated Power Ratio. Each exothermic-reaction device can calculate its Integrated Power Ratio, which is the ratio of energy consumed to energy supplied. The Integrated Power Ratio is calculated by dividing the energy produced by the input energy consumed.

[00117] Referring to FIG. 5D, a second aspect of a device's PMFL report may include various measurements and/or data from sensors on the device that monitor various performance parameters across the rector.

[00118] For example, in some embodiments, the device's PMFL report may include one or more temperature values 551 as measured at the device. The measured temperatures may include, for example, ambient temperature, the reactor's internal temperature, etc. In one embodiment, the temperatures are measured and reported in Celsius. In other embodiments, the temperatures are measured and/or reported in other units, such as Fahrenheit or Kelvin. For each temperature value that is measured and included in the performance report, there may be a predetermined threshold that indicates a safe vs. an unsafe value.

[00119] In some embodiments, a device's PMFL report may include one or more pressure values 552 as measured at the device. The measured pressures may include, for example, the reactor's internal pressure. In one embodiment, the pressures are measured and reported in Torr (i.e., millimeters of mercury). In other embodiments, the pressures may be measured and/or reported in other units, such as pascal (Pa), bar (bar), and atmosphere (atm). For each pressure value that is measured and included in the performance report, there may be a predetermined threshold that indicates a safe vs. an unsafe value. [00120] In some embodiments, a device's PMFL report may include a Power In value 553 that indicates the amount of power that is input to the device. For the Power In value, there may be a predetermined threshold that indicates a safe vs. an unsafe value.

[00121] In some embodiments, a device's PMFL report may include a Power Out value 554 (also referred to as Excess Power) that indicates the amount of power that is output by the device. For the Power Out value, there may be a predetermined threshold that indicates a safe vs. an unsafe value.

[00122] In some embodiments, a device's PMFL report may include an auxiliary power supply status 555 for one or more auxiliary power supplies connected to the device. For example, if the device is using a battery as an auxiliary power supply, then the performance report may include the current power level of that battery. In one embodiment, the auxiliary power supply available may be measured and reported as a percentage of full (e.g., 75% remaining) or in operating time remaining. In other embodiments, the auxiliary power supply available may be measured and/or reported in other units.

[00123] In some embodiments, a device's PMFL report may include the device's connectivity status 556. The connectivity status may indicate the device's connectivity to the CMS. Additionally or alternatively, the connectivity status may indicate the device's connectivity to one or more other devices within the CMS, such as an adjacent device. For example, a device's connectivity status may indicate that the device is connected to other devices in a "daisy chain" configuration and that it is connected either in series or in parallel to the other devices. A device's connectivity status may further indicate number of redundant or fallback connections that are available to the CMS, or a measure of link quality of one or more communication links. For the connectivity status, there may be a minimum threshold value that is used by the system.

[00124] In some embodiments, a device's PMFL report may include the device's location 557. The device's location may be determined by the device's location detector. The location may be provided in the report as a set of coordinates or as a change from a previously known location. For example, the location may be measured and/or reported as geolocation, latitude, longitude, elevation, depth (e.g., relative to sea level), altitude, etc.

[00125] In some embodiments, a device's PMFL report may include the device's fuel status 558. The fuel status may indicate the amount of fuel remaining that can be used in the device's reactor. The fuel status may be measured in volume and/or amount of operating time remaining. In addition, the device's fuel status may indicate whether the fuel has previously been or will need to be refueled and/or replaced.

[00126] In some embodiments, a device's PMFL report may include the time of the device's previously sent report (if any). This information may be useful to the CMS system in determining if there is a communication fault, as well as determining if the device is operating as expected.

[00127] In some embodiments, the device's performance report may include any type-, model-, and/or series-specific device information, such as location, fuel status, usage history, etc.

[00128] FIG. 5E depicts an example of a graph of an exothermic-reaction device's PMFL data over a reporting period.

[00129] Referring to FIG. 5E, the graph represents various performance data of a device, collected over a specified reporting time period. The beginning of the time period shown is at the end time of the device's previous report. The end of the time period shown is the end time of the device's current report. In this exemplary graph, the time is mapped on the x- axis, and the quantity of the performance data is mapped on the y-axis. Various embodiments of the device may show different performance data. In the example shown in FIG. 5E, the Integrated Power Ratio is shown at line 571. The Integrated Power Ratio is unique to the exothermic reactor. Reactor pressure is shown at line 572. Reactor temperature is shown at line 573.

[00130] FIG. 6A depicts a flowchart of an exemplary process of operations of an exothermic-reaction device.

[00131] In the system described here, the CMS and the devices that are part of the CMS are programmed to expect connectivity and adherence to operational reporting instructions. The CMS and each device that is part of the CMS have a parallel set of instructions once the CMS or the device concludes that a device becomes isolated. In this context, from the perspective of a device, "isolated" refers to the device attempting to send a check-in report a certain number of times (e.g., X attempts) within a certain amount of time (e.g., Y time) without receiving an acknowledgement from the CMS. From the perspective of the CMS, "isolated" refers to a device that has violated the expected routine and/or the specified reporting expectations. [00132] FIG. 6A shows device operations from the perspective of the device. At step 611, the device checks whether the number of attempts to send a check-in report exceeds a certain number within a certain amount of time without receiving an acknowledgement from the CMS.

[00133] If the number of attempts has not exceeded the predetermined number, then the device continues to transmit the check-in report, at step 614.

[00134] If the number of attempts exceeds the predetermined number, then, at step 612, the device enters "autonomous" mode. In "autonomous" mode, the device is in an operating mode/time period in which the device is not being continuously monitored by the CMS unless there is an event or fault that requires the device to "check-in." At step 613, the device generates and transmits a check-in report at the next time interval.

[00135] FIG. 6B shows a flowchart of an exemplary process of operations of the CMS.

[00136] At step 631, the CMS checks to see if it has received a report from a device in accordance with expectations. For example, if the CMS expects to receive a report from a particular device every 10 minutes, but at the 10-minute mark from the last report no report has been received, then the CMS determines that it has not received a report in accordance with expectations.

[00137] If the CMS determines at step 631 that it has received the report as expected, then the CMS proceeds to step 632, where the CMS instructs the reporting device to continue normal operations.

[00138] If the CMS determines at step 631 that it has not received the report as expected, then the CMS proceeds to step 633, where it requests a specific report from the device.

[00139] At step 634, the CMS determines whether it has received the requested specific report. If the CMS has received the requested specific report, then, at step 635, the CMS analyzes the received report, as explained in more detail in the context of FIG. 4C.

[00140] If the CMS determines at step 634 that it has not received the requested specific report, then the CMS proceeds to step 636, where it determines whether it has sent multiple unsuccessful requests to the device for the specific report. The number of reports that has to have been unsuccessfully requested may be predetermined, or it may be determined in realtime based on information from the device (e.g., model, type, and series of the device, reporting history of the device, etc.). If the CMS has sent multiple unsuccessful requests, then the CMS generates a notification to send a service technician to examine and/or troubleshoot the device, at step 637. If the CMS has not sent multiple unsuccessful reports, then the CMS continues to step 633, where it requests a specific report from the device.

[00141] FIG. 6C depicts a flowchart of an exemplary process for an exothermic -reaction device that is an "isolated device" to use an adjacent device as a relay.

[00142] The devices that are part of the CMS may be arranged in various arrangements. In some embodiments, the devices may be arranged in close physical proximity to one another. In some embodiments, the devices may be arranged in series (i.e., "daisy chained"). In some embodiments, the devices may be arranged in parallel. In some embodiments, the devices may be arranged in various combinations of series and parallel. In some embodiments, the devices may be arranged in other arrangements.

[00143] Referring to FIG. 6C, in step 651, the device checks whether the number of attempts to send a check-in report exceeds a certain number within a certain amount of time without receiving an acknowledgement from the CMS (e.g., does the number of attempts exceed "x" within the duration of "y" time without the CMS sending an acknowledgement?).

[00144] If the number of attempts has not exceeded the predetermined number, then the device sends the check-in report, at step 656, and continues to operate, at step 657.

[00145] If the number of attempts exceeds the predetermined number, then, at step 652, the device attempts to use an adjacent device in the CMS network as a "relay" device. When the device uses an adjacent device as a relay, it sends and receives reports to the CMS from the adjacent device.

[00146] At step 653, the device checks to see if the adjacent device (i.e., relay device) has acknowledged receipt of the report. If the adjacent device has acknowledged the receipt of the report, then, at step 654, the device continues to operate and sends reports via the relay device. At step 655, the device requests a service technician to the device (via the relay device).

[00147] If the adjacent device has not acknowledged the receipt of the report, then, at step 658, the device enters "autonomous" mode. At step 659, the device generates a check- in report at next time interval and, and goes to step 655, where it requests a service technician to service the device. [00148] FIG. 6D depicts a flowchart of an exemplary process for an exothermic -reaction device that is an "isolated device" to enter a self -protection mode.

[00149] In some embodiments, one or more of the devices in the CMS network will include the ability to enter self-protection mode.

[00150] Referring to FIG. 6D, in step 671, the device checks whether the number of attempts to send a check-in report exceeds a certain number within a certain amount of time without receiving an acknowledgement from the CMS (e.g., does the number of attempts exceed "x" within the duration of "y" time without the CMS sending an acknowledgement?).

[00151] If the number of attempts has not exceeded the predetermined number, then the device sends the check-in report, at step 677, and continues to operate, at step 678.

[00152] If the number of attempts has exceeded the predetermined number, then, at step 672, the device may attempt to establish a communication link with any adjacent device to use as a relay device, as explained in the context of FIG. 6C.

[00153] At step 673, the device checks to see whether a communication link with any adjacent device was established. If a communication link was established, then the device continues to operate and sends check- in reports through the adjacent device (i.e., the one with which the communication link was established), at step 674, and requests a service technician to the device at step 675.

[00154] If a communication link was not established with any adjacent device, then the device enters "self-protect" mode at step 679. Self -protect mode is an anti-tampering mode that causes the device to enable a heightened defense posture, which is a device state initiated by either the device or the CMS that executes when potential tampering, theft, and/or reverse- engineering of the device is detected. The heightened defense posture aims to prevent tampering, theft, and/or reverse-engineering of the device by, for example, powering down, triggering an alarm, etc.

[00155] The device continues to transmit reports at set intervals at step 680 and waits for the CMS to acknowledge receipt of the report in step 681.

[00156] At step 682, the device checks to see if it has received a command from the CMS to switch from self-protect mode to normal mode. In some embodiments, the command from the CMS to switch from self-protect mode to normal mode includes a decryption key to ensure the integrity of the command to enter normal operations mode. [00157] If the command to switch from self-protect mode to normal mode is received, then, at step 676, the device enters normal operations mode. If the command is not received, then the device returns to step 679, where it remains in self-protect mode until "unlocked" by the CMS.

[00158] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a "circuit," "module" or "system." Furthermore, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon.

[00159] Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may be utilized. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium (including, but not limited to, non-transitory computer readable storage media). A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a USB storage device, a magnetic storage device, cloud-based storage (such as servers accessible through an internet connection like WiFi or cellular connectivity) or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[00160] A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[00161] Program code embodied on a computer readable medium may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[00162] Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object oriented and/or procedural programming languages. Programming languages may include, but are not limited to: Ruby®, JavaScript®, Java®, Python®, PHP, C, C++, C#, Objective-C®, Go®, Scala®, Swift®, Kotlin®, OCaml®, assembly language and/or native computer code, or the like. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer, and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter situation scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user' s computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

[00163] Aspects of the present invention are described below reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions.

[00164] These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

[00165] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

[00166] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

[00167] The flowchart and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[00168] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[00169] The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

[00170] The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A central monitoring system for monitoring a plurality of exothermic -reaction devices, comprising:

a server, wherein the server comprises:

a processor;

a database for storing performance parameters associated with the plurality of exothermic-reaction devices; and

a communications interface; and

a plurality of exothermic -reaction devices, wherein each exothermic-reaction device comprises:

an exothermic reactor;

a processor;

an auxiliary power supply;

a location detector;

a transceiver; and

a plurality of sensors for measuring performance parameters of the

exothermic-reaction device.

2. The central monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensors includes a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, and a power sensor.

3. The central monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the performance parameters include performance fault monitoring and localization data.

4. The central monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the performance parameters include an Integrated Power Ratio.

5. A method of monitoring a plurality of exothermic-reaction devices connected to a central monitoring system (CMS) over a network, comprising:

receiving a check-in report from an exothermic -reaction device on a periodic basis, wherein the check- in report includes:

an identification number of the reporting exothermic-reaction device; an operational status of the reporting device;

performance data of the reporting device;

a time that a previous check-in report was sent;

a time stamp for the check-in report; and

an expiration time for the check-in report,

determining whether the exothermic-reaction device is operating within normal parameters based on the performance data;

if the exothermic-reaction device is operating within normal parameters, storing the check-in report in a database associated with the CMS; and

if the exothermic-reaction device is not operating within normal parameters, querying the device for an advanced report.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the performance data includes an Integrated Power Ratio.

7. The method of claim 6, further comprising determining that the exothermic- reaction device is operating sub-optimally when the Integrated Power Ratio is greater than 1 and less than a predetermined threshold value.

8. The method of claim 6, further comprising determining that the exothermic- reaction device is operating optimally when the Integrated Power Ratio is greater than a first predetermined threshold value and less than a second predetermined threshold value.

9. The method of claim 6, further comprising determining that the exothermic- reaction device is operating unsafely when the Integrated Power Ratio is greater than a predetermined threshold, wherein the threshold represents a maximum tested safe limit of the exothermic-reaction device.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising sending a command over the network to the exothermic -reaction device to safely shut down the exothermic -reaction device.

11. A method of operation of an exothermic-reaction device that is part of a central monitoring system (CMS), comprising:

generating a check-in report that includes an Integrated Power Ratio for the

exothermic-reaction device;

sending the check-in report to the CMS upon expiration of a periodic interval;

waiting a predetermined amount of time to receive an acknowledgement from the

CMS indicating that the check-in report was successfully received; incrementing a counter indicating an unsuccessful attempt if the acknowledgement is not received within the predetermined amount of time;

if the counter indicating unsuccessful attempts exceeds a predetermined threshold within a predetermined duration, attempting to establish a communication link to the CMS using an adjacent exothermic-reaction device as a relay device.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising communicating with the CMS via the relay device if the attempt to establish the communication link to the CMS using the adjacent exothermic -reaction device is successful.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising entering an autonomous mode if the attempt to establish the communication link to the CMS using the adjacent exothermic- reaction device is unsuccessful.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising generating a subsequent check-in report upon a subsequent expiration of the periodic interval.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising entering a self-protect mode if the attempt to establish the communication link to the CMS using the adjacent exothermic- reaction device is unsuccessful.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising switching from self-protect mode to a normal-operations mode upon receiving a command from the CMS, wherein the command includes a decryption key.