A Self-Adapting IoT Network Configuration Supported by Distributed Graph Transformations

Abstract

The research described in this article aims to propose the creation of a framework that would enable the self-optimization of IoT device networks. The work is based on two foundations: distributed graph transformations and a flexible IoT network supported by the several standards and definitions proposed by The Open Group, such as the definition of microservices architecture (MSA) as well as IoT and semantic interoperability standards, providing a broader context for the research. It introduces the concept of capabilities, both at the individual device and network levels, which are used to describe the desired functions that will be performed by the given system. The network of distributed IoT devices is visualized as a graph, and graph transformations are used to specify and optimize the network in response to events like degraded performance, failures, or configuration changes. These actions are automatically performed in order to restore the original set of capabilities defined for the system. Validation of these capabilities is used to assess the success rate of the performed actions. The document describes a practical implementation of an IoT network for managing and monitoring an indoor greenhouse. Thanks to the introduction of formal representation of capabilities, the programming effort required to build the system was significantly reduced. Furthermore, automation related to the validation of capabilities and the performance of automated actions reduces the effort by a factor of a hundred compared with a manual action.