Method for integrating a plurality of i / o modules connected to i / o stations into data transmission, station head for performing the method and system comprising a station head

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for integrating a plurality of I / O modules (2) connected to an I / O station (1) according to a configuration (3, 3') into a data transmission for processing data assignable according to the configuration, comprising a plurality of method steps which can be executed successively and define the method according to the invention. The invention also relates to a station head (16) for executing a method of this type and a system having a station head (16) of this type.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for integrating multiple I / O modules connected to an I / O station into data transmission, a station header for performing this method, and a system including such a station header. Background Technology

[0002] As is known in the prior art, field devices, such as measuring sensors or actuators, are used for communication with more advanced automation devices (e.g., programmable logic controllers "PLCs") via communication buses, particularly fieldbuses (such as Profibus) or industrial internet (such as Profinet). Specifically, various field devices in a factory are initially directly connected to individual input / output modules ("I / O modules"), which, depending on a specific configuration, are connected and interconnected within one or more such I / O stations, so that the field devices are also connected to these I / O stations via these I / O modules. Interconnections within I / O stations are initially typically performed via a so-called backplane bus. The I / O stations are then further connected to more advanced automation devices via communication buses. For this purpose, I / O stations typically have a station head, for example in the form of a bus coupler or distributed controller, for communication to and from the I / O station, including the associated organization between the communication bus and the backplane bus. Process data from field devices receiving input signals in the factory, and thus from the process to be automated, is routinely transmitted periodically to the automation device via the communication bus through the I / O station header. If necessary, it is transmitted along with other data affecting the automation of this process, particularly data from the I / O station that is to be transmitted non-periodically (e.g., diagnostic data). Similarly, process data sent to field devices sending output signals in the factory, and thus affecting the process to be automated, is routinely received periodically by the automation device via the communication bus through the I / O station header and forwarded to the field devices connected to the I / O stations. If necessary, it is transmitted along with other data affecting the automation of this process, particularly data to be transmitted non-periodically. Therefore, this data and its processing are characterized by both content and real-time performance. These aspects can also directly influence each other.

[0003] This type of data, hereinafter referred to as primary data, can be assigned to general processes and exchanged with automation devices designed to automate the data; that is, regular periodic data and possibly non-periodic data as I / O stations, which can directly affect each other in terms of content and real-time performance. Additionally, in some cases, supplementary or alternative, usually parallel, data transmissions occur via another communication channel with another, more advanced device. The data transmitted in this supplementary or alternative manner can be used independently for the supplementary or alternative processing and does not directly affect the content and real-time performance of the primary data (i.e., the mutually affecting data), and is therefore also referred to hereinafter as secondary data. Secondary data can be assigned to the same process but also to another process; however, this usually requires the use of an additional I / O station with other I / O modules connected and interconnected within that additional I / O station according to a specific configuration. For example, OPCUA (Open Platform Communication Unified Architecture) can be used as a communication channel for the supplementary or alternative data transmission of secondary data, which sometimes occurs in parallel.

[0004] Specifically, before commissioning an I / O station, the target configuration of the I / O station is routinely projected into the engineering software. As explained above, the data allocated to the general process based on the target configuration and its processing can directly influence each other in terms of content and real-time performance. During commissioning, the target configuration is compared with the actual configuration, that is, with the specific configuration upon which the I / O modules are connected and interconnected within the I / O station. It is possible to put the I / O station into operation even if there are discrepancies between the target and actual configurations. However, this only applies if the actual configuration lacks I / O modules. Once I / O modules are added to the I / O station, the I / O station configuration in the engineering software must be adjusted accordingly. For example, in order to subsequently acquire or process additional and / or supplementary data by adding I / O modules not provided in the target configuration—that is, to process data that affects the process to be automated and / or the automation of that process, is not provided according to the target configuration, and therefore is incorrect or should not be in accordance with the data that can be allocated to the general process according to the target configuration in terms of content and real-time performance—or to process secondary data that, as generally indicated above, is to be transmitted via an additional communication channel, the system for recording that data must be set up in parallel by using additional I / O stations. Such data to be processed by subsequently adding I / O modules not provided in the target configuration may, for example, also include other process data (such as temperature, pulses, etc.), for example, data also used for troubleshooting, for preventative maintenance purposes, or for machine verification or optimization.

[0005] Therefore, a drawback of the known prior art is that if I / O modules are subsequently added to the I / O stations to obtain and / or process other and / or additional data, the overall configuration of the I / O stations in the engineering software must be adjusted accordingly. That is, in order to subsequently process other and / or additional data, particularly process data that needs to be obtained by adding I / O modules instead of being provided previously in the target configuration, the proposed I / O station configuration must be adjusted holistically.

[0006] Alternatively, in the case of subsequently added I / O modules, there is a possibility of providing additional I / O stations for these modules to operate in parallel with the existing I / O stations and setting up a separate system to record the data using these additional I / O stations. However, in this case, the two I / O stations must operate and be maintained in parallel and independently of each other. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to demonstrate an improved method, particularly a method much simpler than the prior art, in which I / O modules connected to I / O stations can be integrated into data transmission, i.e., in particular, can be correctly integrated into the data transmission provided when operating the I / O station. Specifically, I / O modules previously not provided in the target configuration for operating the I / O station can subsequently be added without interfering with the target configuration and can still be integrated into the data transmission.

[0008] The above-mentioned technical problems are solved by the method according to claim 1, the station head having the features of claim 5, and the system according to claim 10. An advantageous further solution is the subject matter of the corresponding dependent claims.

[0009] Therefore, according to the present invention, a method is provided for integrating multiple I / O modules connected to an I / O station according to a configuration into data transmission for processing data, particularly process data, that can be allocated according to the configuration. Thus, the I / O station already includes multiple I / O modules, which, in practice, are configured to process data that can be received from or output to a specific connected field device. In practice, this data advantageously includes data that is typically transmitted periodically and, if necessary, data that is transmitted non-periodically.

[0010] In the first step, an integrated mode can be activated. This involves analyzing the number of I / O modules connected to the I / O station at the I / O station based on the configuration of multiple I / O modules, either by activating the integrated mode or after its activation. It also checks whether a target configuration for connecting multiple I / O modules to the I / O station is stored in memory for processing data, particularly primary data, that can be allocated according to the target configuration. If such a target configuration is stored, a check is performed in response to the target configuration stored in memory to determine whether the target configuration can be discovered based on the number of connected I / O modules. If the target configuration can be discovered, in a subsequent step—i.e., after the number of connected I / O modules has been analyzed and in response to the discovery of the target configuration—each I / O module identified as necessary for discovering the target configuration is assigned to the target configuration, and each I / O module identified as unnecessary for discovering the target configuration is assigned to a new configuration for processing data that can be allocated according to the new configuration. Therefore, the data to be processed according to the target configuration preferably corresponds to primary data, which is processed by the number of I / O modules connected according to the target configuration. Therefore, the data to be allocated to I / O modules according to the new configuration preferably corresponds to secondary data. Data (i.e., data generally associated with the corresponding process and to be transmitted periodically), particularly process data, and / or, if necessary, data to be transmitted non-periodically (including process data to be transmitted non-periodically if necessary), can here be identified specifically based on the transmitting and / or receiving I / O modules and assigned to the appropriate configuration, specifically so that in each case they are thus identified separately as primary and secondary data and assigned to the appropriate configurations separately from each other. It should be noted that the configuration of I / O modules, including the analysis of I / O modules connected to the I / O station, generally also includes the analysis of the corresponding types of I / O modules, just as the target configuration or new configuration includes or defines certain types of I / O modules.

[0011] In response to this allocation of the new configuration, the I / O station can then operate with each I / O module allocated to the target configuration, according to the target configuration, and in particular only according to the target configuration. Furthermore, the I / O station can operate with each I / O module allocated to the new configuration, independently of the target configuration and / or additionally according to the new configuration, with respect to the target configuration, and in particular only according to the new configuration, for processing data that can be allocated independently of the target configuration according to the new configuration.

[0012] Therefore, the data allocated to the corresponding configuration (i.e., in particular primary and secondary data) can be processed (i.e., in particular, used) within the I / O station independently of each other and / or complementing each other. It is also advantageous to exchange other data associated with it, particularly non-periodic data, as a substitute or supplement to the corresponding process data, which is to be transmitted periodically.

[0013] Therefore, in an advantageous manner, without having to interfere with the target configuration, it is also possible to simply add I / O modules later to handle data added according to another supplementary or new configuration, i.e., especially secondary data.

[0014] Therefore, the data added to the new configuration (i.e., especially the secondary data) can be advantageously used for further processing without affecting the content and real-time performance of the data processed by the existing I / O modules according to the target configuration, i.e., in particular, without affecting the content and real-time performance of the primary data.

[0015] Furthermore, the above objectives are achieved through a station head for an I / O station, which has multiple I / O modules connected to the I / O station according to a configuration for processing data that can be allocated according to that configuration. The station head is arranged to operate in integrated mode. When operating in integrated mode, the station head is configured to analyze the number of I / O modules connected to the I / O station at the I / O station based on the configuration of the I / O modules, and check whether a target configuration for connecting multiple I / O modules to the I / O station is stored in memory for processing data, particularly primary data, that can be allocated according to said target configuration. In the case of storing such a target configuration, the station head is also configured to check, when operating in integrated mode, whether the target configuration can be discovered based on the number of I / O modules in response to such a target configuration stored in memory. Where a target configuration can be discovered, the station head is further configured such that, when operating in integrated mode, after analyzing the number of I / O modules and in response to the discovery of the target configuration, each I / O module identified as necessary for discovering the target configuration is assigned to the target configuration, and each I / O module identified as unnecessary for discovering the target configuration is assigned to the new configuration for processing data that can be allocated according to this new configuration, i.e., particularly secondary data. Where such allocation to the new configuration is possible, the station head is configured such that, in response to the allocation to the new configuration, each I / O module allocated to the target configuration can operate the I / O station according to the target configuration, particularly only according to the target configuration, and independently of the target configuration and / or additionally according to the new configuration, particularly only according to the new configuration, the I / O station can operate with each I / O module allocated to the new configuration, particularly for processing data that can be allocated independently of the target configuration according to this new configuration.

[0016] Therefore, the station head according to the invention can also advantageously add I / O modules for data processing, particularly for processing secondary process data, without interfering with the target configuration. Thus, the station head according to the invention can preferably be used to perform the method according to the invention, i.e., it can be used, or preferably can be used, to integrate multiple I / O modules connected to the I / O station into data transmission according to configuration, for processing data that can be allocated according to this configuration.

[0017] The above objective is further achieved by a system having a station head according to the present invention, the system having such an I / O station and a memory, wherein, according to a particular embodiment of the system, the memory may be integrated in the station head, and may be a component of a higher level (überlagerten) than the I / O station or, hereinafter also referred to as superior, and may be coupled to a first device (particularly a superior automation device, such as a programmable logic controller "PLC") of the station head.

[0018] Preferably, the method is unique in that it implements a data link for operating an I / O station with each I / O module assigned to the target configuration according to the target configuration and a first device that is higher-level than the I / O station or is its superior and coupled thereto, which is independent of the data link between the I / O station and the device or another device that is higher-level than the I / O station and coupled thereto, for operating the I / O station with each I / O module assigned to the newly configured I / O station according to the target configuration.

[0019] Advantageously, independent data links are thus provided for transmitting, in particular, primary data and, in particular, secondary data to the correspondingly coupled devices, such that suitable, in particular, different communication channels can also be preferably used for data allocated to the corresponding configurations, and therefore, suitable, in particular, different protocols can also be used. The different communication channels can be designed as physically different or separate communication channels and / or logically different or separate communication channels.

[0020] For this purpose in particular, it is further specified that for the operation of I / O stations, data that can be allocated according to the target configuration (i.e., primary data in particular) is embedded in the first data structure for processing, and data that can be allocated according to the new configuration (i.e., secondary data in particular) is embedded in the second data structure for processing.

[0021] In particular, for practical implementation, in a preferred further embodiment, the station head includes an operating device configured to communicate via multiple communication channels (i.e., via multiple physically and / or logically separate communication channels) and to operate the I / O station according to a target configuration using each I / O module assigned to the target configuration, thereby establishing a data link between each I / O module assigned to the target configuration and a first device that is higher-level than the I / O station and can be coupled to the station head via these communication channels. The device may, for example, take the form of a programmable logic controller. In another preferred embodiment, supplementary or alternative, the station head is further configured to operate the I / O station according to a target configuration using each newly configured I / O module, thereby establishing a data link between each newly configured I / O module and the first or another device that is higher-level than the I / O station and can be coupled to the station head via these communication channels.

[0022] This other device connected to the station head can, for example, be designed as a cloud storage device. Therefore, these preferred embodiments advantageously allow the first device to exchange data and / or communication data with the target configuration's I / O module, and allow the second device to exchange data with the newly configured I / O module. Advantageously, however, within the scope of the invention, operational means for communicating with at least one higher-level device via a plurality of logically separate communication channels can also be provided, such that in each case, data transfer between the I / O station and at least one higher-level device, involving data assignable to the target configuration and data assignable to the newly configured device, is performed via these logically separate communication channels.

[0023] Specifically, it is intended to provide an operating device such that, in each case, internal data transfer between the station head and the corresponding I / O module can be performed via a logically separate communication channel and / or corresponding addressing via a common bus, particularly a backplane bus. Therefore, the operating device advantageously includes a type of communication switch to couple two physically or logically externally routed communication channels and a common internal communication bus.

[0024] Furthermore, in another preferred embodiment, the station head may be provided with an interface for coupling a first device through a first communication channel and / or a second communication channel among these communication channels, and / or with an interface for coupling another device through a second communication channel among these communication channels.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment, it is further specified that, regarding the method and / or the station head, in the event that no target configuration is stored in memory, in response to the fact that no target configuration is stored in memory, a configuration identified after analyzing the number of I / O modules for the configuration of I / O modules connected to the I / O station is stored in memory as a target configuration for connecting multiple I / O modules to the I / O station to process data that can be allocated according to this target configuration. In this case, the method and / or the station head are additionally specifically configured such that the I / O station can operate with each I / O module allocated to the target configuration according to the target configuration.

[0026] As a supplement or alternative, regarding the method and / or the station head, during operation in integrated mode, if the target configuration is not found, it is further specified that after analyzing the number of I / O modules and in response to the fact that the target configuration cannot be found, an error signal is output, and in this case, I / O station operation is further specifically prohibited, or it is checked whether an operable subset of the target configuration can be found based on the analyzed number of connected I / O modules, wherein in response to the absence of such a subset, an error signal is output, and in response to the discovery of such a subset, each I / O module identified as required for discovering the subset of the target configuration continues to be allocated to the target configuration.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, regarding the method and / or the station head, in the absence of assigning a single I / O module to the new configuration, it is further specified that, in response to the fact that no I / O module is assigned to the new configuration, the I / O station can be operated with any I / O module assigned to the target configuration according to the target configuration.

[0028] In another preferred but equally additional or alternative embodiment, the station head is further provided with an activation device for activating the integrated mode. Advantageously, the integrated mode can be selected manually by, for example, an operator. Additionally or alternatively, the activation device can be further designed mechanically, preferably as a mechanical switching or rotary coding device. In a preferred embodiment, the rotary coding device can be arranged on the station head. Additionally or alternatively, the activation device can also be designed digitally, preferably operated via a user interface that can be displayed on the website. This advantageous design of the activation device allows it to be integrated into existing user interfaces, particularly in a user-friendly manner. Additionally or alternatively, the activation device can also be coupled to a service interface on the station head for operation via a password through a standard interface on the station head and / or can be operated via a password through a standard interface on the station head. According to the invention, this design of the activation device ensures that only authorized users can access the method according to the invention directly or via the interface according to the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The invention will become apparent from the following description of some preferred embodiments and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, whereby more features and advantages of the invention will become apparent.

[0030] The attached diagram shows:

[0031] Figure 1 This is a first embodiment of an I / O station integrated into a system, particularly an automation system for process control, for performing the method according to the invention, having a station head configured according to the invention; and

[0032] Figure 2 This is a second embodiment of an I / O station integrated into a system, particularly an automation system for process control, having a station head configured according to the invention to perform the method according to the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The invention is described in more detail below based on preferred embodiments thereof. The invention can be used in particular for industrial bus systems such as Profinet RT (real-time) and Profinet IRT (synchronous real-time), and in principle also for any other bus system that can be used as a communication bus (such as Profibus), or for Ethernet-based communication or data transmission buses, especially in the field of (process) automation technologies, for example, with industrial Ethernet.

[0034] For this purpose, the accompanying drawings illustrate an I / O station 1 integrated into a system, particularly an automation system for process control, wherein a station head 16 configured according to the invention is specifically used to perform operations according to the invention for configuration 3 ( Figure 1 ) or 3' ( Figure 2A method for integrating multiple I / O modules connected to I / O station 1 into data transmission for processing data, particularly process data, that can be allocated according to this configuration, wherein, after activating the integration mode, the number of I / O modules connected to I / O station 1 is analyzed at the I / O station for the configuration of the I / O modules, and it is checked whether a target configuration 6 for connecting multiple I / O modules 2 to I / O station 1 (this target configuration is used to process data 4, particularly primary data, that can be allocated according to this target configuration 6) is stored in memory. In response to the target configuration 6 stored in memory, it is checked whether the target configuration 6 can be found based on the number of I / O modules 2. After analyzing the number of I / O modules and in response to the... The target configuration 6 assigns each I / O module 2 required for the purpose of the target configuration 6 to the target configuration 6 and assigns each I / O module 8 not required for the purpose of the target configuration 6 to the new configuration 14 for processing data 10, particularly secondary data, which can be allocated according to this new configuration 14. In response to the allocation to the new configuration 14, I / O station 1 can operate according to the target configuration 6 with each I / O module 2 allocated to the target configuration 6. In addition, I / O station 1 can operate independently of the target configuration 6 according to the new configuration and / or additionally according to the new configuration 14 with each I / O module 8 allocated to the new configuration 14.

[0035] In this regard, it should be emphasized again that, in practice, the corresponding data that can be allocated to the actual configuration, target configuration, and new configuration generally includes data to be transmitted periodically, especially process data, and, if necessary, data to be transmitted non-periodically. Alternatively or supplementing the corresponding process data to be transmitted periodically, other associated data, especially non-periodic data, such as diagnostic data, can also be appropriately exchanged.

[0036] Within the scope of this invention, by definition, data and / or its processing that can be assigned to a general process and exchanged with at least one higher-level device, particularly an automation device provided for automating data, can directly influence each other in terms of content and real-time performance. Within the scope of this invention, therefore, data to be transmitted in parallel and assigned to the same process but also to another process for further independent processing without directly affecting the content and real-time performance of the primary data can hereinafter be further referred to as secondary data by definition.

[0037] Furthermore, it should be noted that the analysis of the configuration of I / O modules connected to the I / O station usually also includes the analysis of the corresponding type of I / O modules, as the target configuration or new configuration also includes or defines certain types of I / O modules.

[0038] Specifically, in Figure 1 In the diagram, I / O station 1 is shown having multiple I / O modules I / O 1, I / O 2, and I / O 3 connected to I / O station 1 according to configuration 3, for processing data that can be allocated according to this configuration. Figure 2 In the diagram, I / O station 1 is shown having multiple I / O modules I / O 1, I / O 2, I / O a, I / O b, I / O 3, and I / O c connected to I / O station 1 according to configuration 3, for processing data that can be allocated according to this configuration.

[0039] also, Figure 1 and Figure 2 Each is shown as a station head 16 for such an I / O station 1. Typically, such a station head 16 is part of such an I / O station 1 and generally ensures communication with the device 22, which is the superior device of the I / O station, particularly an automation device (such as a PLC as device 22), for data transmission between the latter and the I / O module.

[0040] For this communication, and especially for the associated forwarding of data processed by or to be processed by the I / O module, i.e., particularly for forwarding data from or to the I / O module 2 according to configuration 3, the station head 16 is preferably set up here in the form of a bus coupler or a distributed controller.

[0041] In actual implementation, various field devices in the factory, not shown for clarity, are purposefully connected to the I / O modules, i.e., according to... Figure 1 Connect to I / O modules I / O 1, I / O 2, I / O 3, or according to... Figure 2 Connected to I / O modules I / O 1, I / O 2, I / O a, I / O b, I / O 3, and I / O c, the interconnection of I / O modules within the I / O station is typically first performed via a so-called backplane bus, which is not shown for clarity. The backplane bus of the I / O station is then externally connected to higher-level devices 22 via station head 16, and particularly via communication channels 18 of the bus system. According to the invention, station head 16 itself is configured to operate in an integrated mode. In fact, as described in more detail below, the integrated mode is used to integrate multiple I / O modules connected to I / O station 1 according to configuration 3 or 3' into data transmission to process data that can be allocated according to this configuration.

[0042] After activating the integrated mode, and therefore especially when the station head 16 is operating in the integrated mode, the number of I / O modules connected to I / O station 1 is analyzed for the configuration 3 or 3' of the I / O modules at I / O station 1, and it is checked whether the target configuration 6 for connecting multiple I / O modules 2 to I / O station 1 is stored in memory, which is used to process data 4 that can be allocated according to this target configuration 6.

[0043] In the context of this invention, the integration mode is also specifically designed to first check whether the configuration to be protected has been stored together with data that can be allocated according to this configuration, that is, encapsulation, so to speak, such that after the I / O module connected to the I / O station is integrated into the data transmission, all data that can be allocated to this configuration to be protected can be processed as primary data and data related to I / O modules that do not belong to this configuration to be protected (i.e., added after storing such configuration to be protected or subsequently added to the I / O station) can be processed as secondary data.

[0044] This memory, capable of storing this target configuration 6, can be specifically integrated directly into station head 16, or it can be a more advanced device than I / O station 1 that can be coupled to station head 16 (e.g., according to...). Figure 1 The example in the embodiment is a component of the upper-level device 22. If the memory is therefore a component of, for example, the upper-level device 22, then coupling with device 22 must also be performed first for data exchange in order to check whether the target configuration 6 is stored. Therefore, such device 22 preferably corresponds to an automation device that controls the process according to the target configuration. However, for clarity, the memory itself is not shown in the drawings.

[0045] If the inspection indicates that this target configuration 6 is stored in memory, then during operation in integrated mode, station head 16 is further advantageously configured to check whether this target configuration 6 can be discovered based on the number of I / O modules according to configuration 3 or 3'. For example, assuming that... Figure 1 This is the case in the example implementation, but according to Figure 2 In the example of the embodiment, the situation is also the same, that is, the special configuration of I / O modules I / O 1, I / O 2 and I / O 3, which are also marked by reference numeral 2 in the figure, basically corresponds to the target configuration 6.

[0046] As explained above, this analysis typically also includes the analysis of the corresponding type of I / O modules. Therefore, the target configuration also includes, or defines, the types of I / O modules intended for this purpose; that is, specific types.

[0047] Therefore, if the examination following the analysis of the number of I / O modules indicates that such a target configuration 6 can be discovered based on the number of I / O modules according to configuration 3 or 3', it is further advantageous to set up a station head 16 operating in integrated mode so that each I / O module identified as necessary for discovering the target configuration 6 is assigned to the target configuration 6, i.e., according to Figure 1 Based on configuration 3 for all I / O modules connected, or based on Figure 2 According to configuration 3', the other I / O modules are connected, as indicated by reference numeral 2 in the attached figure. For each additional I / O module that is not needed when the target configuration is identified as being used for this purpose, a new configuration 14 is additionally assigned to process data 10 that can be allocated according to this new configuration, i.e., according to... Figure 2 According to configuration 3', the other I / O module is marked with reference numeral 8 in the attached figure.

[0048] If the I / O modules have already been assigned to the new configuration 14 in this way, then the station head 16 is thus advantageously configured so that the I / O station can operate according to the target configuration 6, that is, with each I / O module 2 assigned to the target configuration 6, i.e., taking into account these I / O modules, in particular only taking into account these I / O modules 2, and on the other hand, enabling the I / O station to operate according to the new configuration 14, that is, with each I / O module 8 assigned to the new configuration 14, i.e., taking into account these I / O modules 8, in particular only taking into account these I / O modules 8.

[0049] The operation of the I / O station according to target configuration 6 and the operation of the I / O station according to new configuration 14 can here preferably be implemented complementaryly, particularly according to a special embodiment, i.e., particularly implemented in parallel with each other, or alternatively but particularly implemented independently of each other and thus occur.

[0050] Furthermore, for the operation of the I / O station according to the target configuration 6, it is preferable to consider or release only each I / O module 2 allocated to the target configuration 6, and for the operation of the I / O station according to the new configuration 14, it is preferable to consider or release only each I / O module 8 allocated to the new configuration 14.

[0051] In particular, to enable this supplementary and / or alternative operation of the I / O station, the station head 16 is further advantageously provided with operating means for communication via at least two communication channels 18 and 20, which in practice may include hardware and / or software components. However, since those skilled in the art are familiar with operating means for transmitting, distributing, and processing information that consist substantially of hardware and / or software components, these are not further shown in the figures for clarity.

[0052] However, according to the embodiment example shown in the figures, in this case, in order to operate the I / O station 1 with each I / O module 2 assigned to the target configuration 6 according to the target configuration 6, a data link is specifically provided via a first communication channel (e.g., via communication channel 18) between each I / O module 2 assigned to the target configuration and a first device (i.e., device 22, according to the embodiment example shown in the figures) that is higher than the I / O station 1 and can be coupled to the station head 16.

[0053] Via the second communication channel, according to the embodiment shown in the figures, for example via the second communication channel 20, a data link is implemented or can be implemented between each I / O module 8 assigned to the new configuration and a second device (i.e., device 24 according to the embodiment example shown in the figures) that is higher than I / O station 1 and can be coupled to station head 16, so that I / O station 1 can be operated with each I / O module 8 assigned to the new configuration 14 according to the new configuration 6.

[0054] It should also be noted that, Figure 2 In this context, the at least two communication channels 18 and 20 are shown as physically different or separate communication channels. However, within the scope of this invention, the at least two communication channels may also be designed in a complementary or alternative manner as logically different or separate communication channels, as explained above.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the second communication channel 20 can operate completely independently of the first communication channel 18, via which data 10, particularly secondary data, of the reconfigured I / O module 8 can be transmitted between the station head 16 and a device 24 (e.g., a cloud, software tool, database, or mobile terminal) that can be coupled to the station head 16.

[0056] In each case, internal data transfer between station head 16 and the corresponding I / O module can then be performed appropriately via a shared backplane bus, via logically separate communication channels, and / or by corresponding addressing of the I / O module.

[0057] Therefore, the operating device provided with the station head advantageously includes a type of communication switch for coupling several communication channels 18, 20 physically or logically routed to the outside and a shared internal communication bus (i.e., particularly a shared backplane bus). Furthermore, especially in the case where only the communication channels 18, 20 are logically and individually routed to the outside, i.e., if the two communication channels 18, 20 are routed via a shared physical medium, in relation to... Figure 2In the modification, the data link can also operate separately from the data link operating relative to the I / O module allocated to the target configuration via a second communication channel 20 between each newly configured I / O module and the first device 22. In this case, for example, further processing of primary and secondary data can be performed separately but by the shared device 22, or the device 22 can transfer the processing of primary or secondary data to another data processing device connected to it and not shown in the figures.

[0058] In order to couple a first, higher-level device 22 via the first communication channel and / or a second communication channel in these communication channels 18, 20, and / or specifically to couple a second device via the second communication channel 20, the station head 16 is therefore advantageously provided with a corresponding interface; however, for clarity, this interface is not shown in more detail in the accompanying drawings. Such a corresponding interface can be specifically provided for coupling via one or more communication channels, particularly based on fieldbus (such as PROFIBUS) and / or industrial Ethernet.

[0059] Therefore, according to the data of target configuration 6, particularly the primary data (i.e., particularly process data PD, and here particularly primary process data), also referred to as primary process data in the figures, according to the illustrated embodiment, it can then be exchanged between station head 16 and first higher-level device 22 via the first communication channel 18. Therefore, according to the data of reconfiguration 14, particularly the secondary data (i.e., particularly process data PD, and here particularly secondary process data), in... Figure 2 This can also be referred to as secondary process data, and therefore, according to the illustrated embodiment, it can be exchanged sequentially between the station head 16 and the second higher-level device 24 via the second communication channel 20.

[0060] If from another Figure 1 and Figure 2 As will be clear from the description of the preferred embodiments shown, the fundamental improvement obtained by applying the invention lies in the ability to implement subsequent simple addition of I / O modules, particularly for processing secondary data, without interfering with the engineering design of the original target configuration. The target configuration and, therefore, the actual configuration also found in this respect, remain unchanged for engineering, particularly the primary processes, and thus remain effective. Therefore, additional secondary data to be processed, particularly according to another included “new configuration,” can be used for further independent processing, particularly via a separate communication channel, without affecting the content and real-time performance of the primary data. Furthermore, these secondary data are advantageously provided via a separate, suitable communication channel, through which the secondary data is used, for example, in the cloud, from tools, in a database, and / or from a mobile terminal, to provide access to a second higher-level device 24 or, further, according to… Figure 2The above modifications are possible examples of another data processing device that may be connected to the first device.

[0061] For example, it also enables OPC UA, which is capable of transmitting telemetry data (such as MQTT (“Message Queuing Telemetry Transport”)) between devices in the form of messages, or open network protocols for “machine-to-machine” communication, to be used for yet another separate suitable communication channel 20 for this purpose, wherein secondary data can be provided according to the invention.

[0062] To activate the integrated mode, the activation device 17 is advantageously further associated with the station head 16. Preferably, according to the invention, the station head is equipped with the activation device 17, which is designed as a mechanical device, preferably a mechanical switch or rotary encoder, thereby providing a digital design as a supplement or alternative. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the activation device 17 may also be additionally or alternatively coupled to a service interface on the station head for operation and / or can be operated cryptographically via a standard interface on the station head.

[0063] According to the present invention, reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 More preferably, the following are provided:

[0064] If the check regarding whether target configuration 6 has been stored in memory indicates that such target configuration 6 is not stored in memory, it is advantageous to further develop embodiments according to the invention so that the configuration for the I / O module connected to I / O station 1 (i.e., in this case, according to) Figure 1 The configuration identified after analyzing the number of I / O modules (which would therefore be configuration 3) is stored in memory as a target configuration 6 for connecting multiple I / O modules to the I / O station to process data 4 that can be allocated according to this target configuration 6. In this case, initially only the operations performed by each of the I / O modules 2 allocated to this target configuration 6 are implemented according to the target configuration.

[0065] If, after analysis, a search of the I / O modules connected according to the configuration (based on which the stored desired configuration 6 can be found) indicates that the stored desired configuration 6 cannot be found, then according to embodiments of the invention, it is advantageously further designed in a supplementary or alternative manner to allow an error signal to be output and, in this case, to further advantageously deactivate I / O station 1. However, alternatively, in the case where the stored desired configuration 6 cannot be found, according to embodiments of the invention, modifications may also be suitably embodied in the modification of the check for implementing the station head or device 22, in which case it is checked whether an operable subset of the target configuration can be found based on the number of connected I / O modules analyzed. In response to the discovery of such a subset, it is then advantageously possible to continue allocating each I / O module 2 identified as necessary for the purpose of the target configuration 6 to discover a subset of the target configuration 6, and in response to the failure to find such a subset, an error signal can be output again.

[0066] Additionally or alternatively, embodiments of the invention are advantageously further designed such that if, in particular, allocation to the new configuration 14 is not possible due to a lack of other I / O modules, I / O station 1 can still be operated using each I / O module 2 allocated to target configuration 6 according to target configuration 6.

[0067] In general, the I / O modules connected according to the configuration are first analyzed according to the actual configuration, and in particular, they are also used to identify and potentially separate the data that can be allocated to them in each case, for example, to separate primary data from secondary data, and then preferably also to identify these modules.

[0068] The target configuration is specified by a higher-level device 22 (such as a PLC) or corresponds to the actual configuration, which then becomes the target configuration when the integrated mode is activated. According to the invention, the I / O modules connected according to the target configuration and the data allocated to them can therefore be quasi-"encapsulated," particularly encapsulated as primary data for transmission and processing, i.e., protected in this way. In other words, the following data identified as primary data are particularly the data of those I / O modules described in the target configuration, and especially process data, but alternatively or additionally, other data associated therewith, particularly non-periodic data.

[0069] "Encapsulation" is a major innovation, especially for the separation or distribution of primary and secondary data.

[0070] If "encapsulation" is desired, then when the described integration mode is activated, all data associated with subsequently added I / O modules can also be allocated to secondary data. Therefore, one or more I / O modules can be added to the I / O station in a simple manner without interfering with the engineering design of the original target configuration. In other words, according to the invention, particularly after the I / O modules connected to I / O station 1 have been integrated into the data transmission as described above, an adaptive structure for communicating with higher-level devices can be generated according to the order of the I / O modules in the station, particularly as... Figure 2 As shown.

[0071] In practice, the station head ensures that adding or removing other I / O modules does not affect the primary data in terms of content and real-time performance, and therefore does not affect the running application in the main controller (e.g., device 22). Furthermore, in practice, the station head can identify the structure of the secondary data accordingly when adding or removing I / O modules.

[0072] When the integration mode is activated (which can therefore also be called a type of "encapsulation" mode), the station head can advantageously compare the target configuration of any projection with the actual configuration.

[0073] If a difference is detected, in the preferred embodiment, there are several possibilities for how to react, particularly how the station head should react.

[0074] For example, if the target configuration cannot be found in the actual configuration, an error is detected, and in this case, it can be assumed that, for example, the configuration on which the connection I / O module is based is by no means what the user expects.

[0075] Furthermore, however, it is also possible to detect no errors, in particular,

[0076] -a) If a "special" module (similar to a placeholder) is included within the target configuration but not at the end of the station, this has been swapped for another module, and / or, depending on the target configuration, another module has been inserted between I / O modules, for example, in Figure 2 At this point, I / O modules I / O a and I / O b, from which data (e.g., process data of the added I / O modules) can then be allocated to secondary data, such as secondary process data;

[0077] -b) If the target configuration differs from the actual configuration, add an I / O module at the end of the station, for example, Figure 2 The I / O module I / O c in the middle;

[0078] -c) If the target configuration matches the actual configuration;

[0079] -d) If the target configuration differs from the actual configuration, such that one or more I / O modules of the target configuration are missing in the actual configuration, but an operable subset of the target configuration can be found.

[0080] Therefore, in order to use the above-described functions, the integrated mode can be activated as described, that is, in particular, the extended mode of "encapsulation" can be operated, and this activation can be performed through various mechanisms, such as...

[0081] a. Via a mechanical device, such as a rotary encoder switch on the station head,

[0082] b. Via the button on the website header

[0083] c. Via the service interface on the site header, i.e., via the password on the standard interface.

[0084] When this integration mode is activated and thus in operation, the corresponding stored target configuration is "encapsulated," or in available embodiments, the actual configuration is initially stored as the target configuration, which can then be encapsulated accordingly during subsequent activation, making this target configuration immune to the addition of other I / O, arguably becoming unforgiving, and adding other I / O modules does not necessarily result in error messages due to the deviation between the actual and target configurations. Therefore, data, particularly process data, that can be allocated to the identified and added I / O modules assigned to the new configuration 14 is advantageously available as secondary data, i.e., particularly as secondary process data, preferably also for other functions / tasks, such as preventative maintenance. The structure of the secondary data can also be visualized, for example, through tables on the web server at the site head.

[0085] Specifically, it is envisioned that, upon activation, newly added I / O modules are automatically detected at the station head, where the primary data of the I / O modules continues to be encapsulated and processed according to the target configuration. After activation, an inherent mechanism (e.g., where the local bus structure is analyzed at regular intervals) detects the addition and removal of I / O modules whose data is not allocated to primary data. Therefore, particularly in practical implementation, this mechanism ensures that adding and removing other I / O modules does not affect the primary data and its transmission / processing, and accordingly identifies the structure of secondary data. In particular, secondary data can also be used for other functions / tasks, such as preventative maintenance, and thus, as mentioned above, the structure of secondary data can also be visualized, for example, through tables on the network server at the station head.

[0086] Considering the above description, it can be seen that the integration mode according to the invention can therefore be advantageously provided as a supplement to, but also as an alternative to, the following mode or "standard mode": wherein during the trial operation of the I / O station, adjustments are made only between the target configuration and the actual configuration of the I / O station, and if a deviation between the target configuration and the actual configuration is detected during the adjustment, at least if the deviation is not solely due to the missing I / O modules in the actual configuration but the I / O station can still be put into operation, then the project plan for the entire I / O station (i.e., the target configuration) must be adjusted.

[0087] List of reference numerals

[0088] 1) I / O station

[0089] 2) I / O modules configured according to the target

[0090] 3) 3') Configuration

[0091] 4) Target configuration data

[0092] 6) Target Configuration

[0093] 8) Based on the newly configured I / O modules

[0094] 10) Newly configured data

[0095] 14) New configuration

[0096] PD process data

[0097] 16) Station Head

[0098] 17) Activation device

[0099] 18) First communication channel

[0100] 20) Second communication channel

[0101] 22) First upper-level device

[0102] 24) Second upper-level device.

Claims

1. A method for integrating multiple I / O modules connected to an I / O station (1) according to a configuration (3, 3') into data transmission, the configuration being configured to process process data (4, 10) that can be allocated according to the configuration, the method comprising the steps of: a) - Activation of the integration mode operated by the head (16) of the I / O station (1), wherein by activating the integration mode, the number of I / O modules connected to the I / O station (1) is analyzed at the I / O station (1) for the configuration of the plurality of I / O modules, and further, it is checked whether a target configuration (6) for connecting the plurality of I / O modules (2) to the I / O station (1) is stored in memory, the target configuration being used to process primary data (4) that can be allocated according to the target configuration (6). b) - Wherein, in response to the target configuration (6) stored in the memory, it is checked whether the I / O modules of the analyzed number of connections can discover the target configuration (6). And in response to the discovery of the target configuration (6). c) Each I / O module (2) identified as necessary for discovering the target configuration (6) will be assigned to the target configuration (6), and each I / O module (8) identified as unnecessary for discovering the target configuration (6) will be assigned to the new configuration (14) for processing secondary data (10) that can be allocated according to the new configuration (14). d) - Wherein, in response to the allocation to the new configuration (14), the I / O station (1) operates only according to the target configuration (6), with each I / O module (2) allocated to the target configuration (6), and Furthermore, the I / O station (1) operates independently of the target configuration (6) and / or relative to the target configuration (6) with each I / O module (8) assigned to the new configuration (14) solely according to the new configuration (14) for processing secondary data (10) that can be allocated independently of the target configuration (6) according to the new configuration (14).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Implement a data link between the I / O station (1) and the device (22, 24) that is the superior of and coupled to the I / O station (1) to operate the I / O station (1) with each I / O module (2) assigned to the target configuration (6) according to the target configuration (6), which is independent of the data link between the I / O station (1) and the device or another device (22, 24) that is the superior of and coupled to the I / O station (1) for operating the I / O station (1) with each I / O module (8) assigned to the new configuration (14) according to the new configuration (14).

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, For the operation of the I / O station (1), the data (4) that can be allocated according to the target configuration (6) is embedded in the first data structure for processing, and the data (10) that can be allocated according to the new configuration (14) is embedded in the second data structure for processing.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The method - When operating in the integrated mode, it is further configured such that: in response to the fact that the check according to step a) indicates that no such target configuration (6) is stored in the memory, the configuration identified after analyzing the number of I / O modules (2) for the configuration of I / O modules connected to the I / O station (1) is stored in the memory as the target configuration (6) for connecting multiple I / O modules (2) to the I / O station (1) to process data (4) that can be allocated according to the target configuration (6), and Furthermore, in this case, the I / O station (1) can be operated with each I / O module (2) allocated to the target configuration (6) according to the target configuration (6). And / or, characterized in that the method - When operating in the integrated mode, it is further configured such that: after analyzing the number of I / O modules (2) and in response to the fact that the target configuration (6) cannot be found in the I / O station (1) according to the check in step b), an error signal is output and in this case the operation of the I / O station (1) is further disabled, or the number of connected I / O modules based on the analyzed number are checked to see if an operable subset of the target configuration can be found, and in response to the absence of the subset, an error signal is output, and in response to the presence of the subset, the process continues according to step c), but with the following modification: each I / O module (2) identified as required for finding the subset of the target configuration (6) is assigned to the target configuration (6). And / or, characterized in that the method - Configured such that even in response to the fact that no single I / O module (8) is assigned to the new configuration after performing step c), the I / O station (1) can be operated with each I / O module (2) assigned to the target configuration (6) according to the target configuration (6).

5. A head unit (16) for an I / O station having a plurality of I / O modules connected to the I / O station (1) according to a configuration (3, 3') for processing process data (4, 10) that can be allocated according to the configuration. The station head (16) is configured to operate in integrated mode: - The station head (16) is configured to analyze the number of I / O modules at the I / O station (1) for the configuration of I / O modules connected to the I / O station (1) during operation in the integrated mode, and check whether a target configuration (6) for connecting multiple I / O modules (2) to the I / O station (1) is stored in memory for processing primary data (4) that can be allocated according to the target configuration (6). -When operating in the integrated mode (5), the station head (16) is further configured to check whether the target configuration (6) can be found based on the number of connected I / O modules in response to the target configuration (6) stored in the memory. -When operating in the integrated mode (5), the head (16) is further configured to, after analyzing the number of connected I / O modules and in response to discovering the target configuration, allocate each I / O module (2) identified as necessary for discovering the target configuration (6) to the target configuration (6), and allocate each I / O module (8) identified as unnecessary for discovering the target configuration to the new configuration (14) for processing secondary data (10) that can be allocated according to the new configuration. - The station head (16) is further configured to operate the I / O station with each I / O module (2) allocated to the target configuration (6) only according to the target configuration (6) in response to the new configuration (14), and to operate the I / O station with each I / O module (8) allocated to the new configuration (14) only according to the new configuration (14) independently of the target configuration (6) and / or relative to the target configuration (6) for processing secondary data (10) that can be allocated according to the new configuration (14) independently of the target configuration.

6. The station head (16) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The station head (16) is provided with operating means for communication via multiple communication channels (18, 20) and is arranged as follows: - A data link is established via the plurality of communication channels (18) between each I / O module assigned to the target configuration and a first device (22) that is an upper-level device of the I / O station (1) and can be coupled to the station head (16), so as to operate the I / O station (1) with each I / O module (2) assigned to the target configuration (6) according to the target configuration (6), and / or - A data link is established via the plurality of communication channels (20) between each I / O module assigned to the new configuration and the first device or another device (22, 24) that is the superior of the I / O station and can be coupled to the station head, so as to operate the I / O station with each I / O module (8) assigned to the new configuration according to the new configuration.

7. The station head (16) according to claim 6, wherein the station head (16) is provided with an interface for coupling the first device (22) through a first communication channel and / or a second communication channel (18, 20) of the plurality of communication channels, and / or for coupling the other device (22, 24) through a second communication channel (20) of the plurality of communication channels, wherein the station head is provided with a corresponding interface for coupling via a fieldbus.

8. The station head (16) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The station head (16). - When operating in the integrated mode (5), it is further arranged to, in response to the absence of the target configuration (6) stored in the memory, store in the memory a configuration identified after configuration analysis of the number of I / O modules (2) connected to the I / O station (1) for the plurality of I / O modules, the target configuration for connecting the plurality of I / O modules (2) to the I / O station (1) to process data (4) that can be allocated according to the target configuration (6), and in this case further configured to operate or be able to operate the I / O station with each I / O module (2) allocated to the target configuration (6) according to the target configuration (6), and / or - When operating in integrated mode (5), after analyzing the number of I / O modules (2) and in response to the inability to discover the target configuration (6), an error signal is output and the I / O station (1) cannot be operated in this case, or it is checked whether an operable subset of the target configuration can be discovered based on the analyzed number of connected I / O modules, and an error signal is output in response to the failure to discover the subset, and in response to the discovery of the subset, each I / O module (2) identified as required for discovering the subset of the target configuration (6) is assigned to the target configuration (6), and / or - Set to operate or be able to operate the I / O station (1) with each I / O module (2) assigned to the target configuration (6) in response to not being assigned to the new configuration (14).

9. The station head (16) according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the station head is further provided with an activation device (15) for activating the integrated mode, wherein the activation device - Designed mechanically, and / or - Designed digitally, and / or - Service interfaces coupled to the said site header for operation, and / or - Operations are performed via a password through the standard interface of the aforementioned site header.

10. The station head (16) according to claim 9, wherein the activation device (15) is mechanically designed as a mechanical switching or rotation coding device.

11. The site header (16) according to claim 9, wherein the activation device (15) is designed digitally and can be operated via a user interface that can be displayed on the website.

12. A system with a station head (16), - Alternatively, the station head is the station head according to any one of claims 5 to 11, the system having the I / O station (1) and a memory, wherein the memory is integrated in the station head (16). - Alternatively, the head unit is at least as claimed in claim 6, the system having the I / O station (1) and the memory, wherein the memory is part of a first device (22) that is superior to the I / O station (1) and can be coupled to the head unit (16).

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