Control device, setting method, computer-readable recording medium, and information processing apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to a control device, a setting method, a computer-readable recording medium, and an information processing apparatus, which effectively implement engineering related to input / output setting of data of an automation system. A control device (30) transmits a request for input / output settings of data to a management server (10), receives input / output information defining the input / output settings associated with the control device (30) executing control of a system from the management server (10), and executes the input / output settings of the device on the basis of the received input / output information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device, a setting method, a computer-readable recording medium, and an information processing device. Background Art

[0002] An automation system is introduced into a workshop to automate the process for manufacturing various products. When a project related to such an automation system is completed, the process of designing, building, inspecting, etc. is carried out based on the design information received from the customer.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-046438

[0004] However, it is currently difficult to efficiently implement the engineering of the automation system in a workshop. For example, it is currently difficult to efficiently implement the input and output settings of data (appropriately referred to as "IO (Input Output) settings") for multiple control systems constituting the automation system of a workshop. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to efficiently carry out a process related to input and output settings of data in an automation system.

[0006] The present invention provides a control instrument, comprising: a transceiver unit, which sends a request for input and output settings of data to an information processing device, and receives input and output information defining the input and output settings from the information processing device, which is associated with the control instrument that performs system control; and a setting unit, which executes the input and output settings of the instrument based on the received input and output information.

[0007] In addition, the present invention provides a setting method, in which a computer performs the following processing: sending a request for input and output settings of data to an information processing device, receiving input and output information that defines the input and output settings and is associated with a control instrument that performs system control from the information processing device, and executing the input and output settings of this instrument based on the received input and output information.

[0008] In addition, the present invention provides a computer-readable recording medium, which records a setting program, and the setting program enables a computer to perform the following processing: sending a request for input and output settings of data to an information processing device, receiving input and output information that defines the input and output settings associated with a control instrument that performs system control from the information processing device, and executing the input and output settings of this instrument based on the received input and output information.

[0009] In addition, the present invention provides an information processing device comprising: an acquisition unit, which, when accepting a request for input and output settings of data of a control instrument that executes control of a system, acquires input and output information associated with the control instrument that defines the input and output settings; and a sending unit, which sends the input and output information to the control instrument that has accepted the request.

[0010] Effects of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, there is an effect that a process related to input / output setting of data in an automation system can be efficiently performed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a configuration example and a processing example of the automation system according to the embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing a specific example of each process of the automation system according to the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of each device in the automation system according to the embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing an individual information storage unit of a meter database according to the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a sequence diagram showing an example of the overall flow of the automation system according to the embodiment.

[0017] Figure 6 It is a diagram showing a hardware configuration example according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Hereinafter, a control device, a setting method, a computer-readable recording medium, and an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

[0019] Next, the configuration and processing of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment, the configuration and processing of each device of the automation system 100 , and the processing flow of the automation system 100 will be described in order, and finally, the effects of the embodiment will be described.

[0020] [1. Structure and processing of automation system 100]

[0021] use Figure 1 The configuration and processing of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described in detail. Figure 11 is a diagram showing a configuration example and a processing example of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Hereinafter, a configuration example of the entire automation system 100, a processing example of the entire automation system 100, a specific example of each processing of the automation system 100, and an effect of the automation system 100 will be described. In addition, in the embodiment, the factory production monitoring using the workshop instrument which is the equipment installed in the workshop is described as an example, but the equipment and the field of use are not limited, and it can also be applied to environmental measurement monitoring such as power monitoring, wind power generation, water supply and drainage monitoring, and river monitoring.

[0022] (1-1. Example of Overall Configuration of Automation System 100)

[0023] The automation system 100 includes a management server 10 as an information processing device, an instrument database 20, control instruments 30 (30A, 30B, ...) as setting devices, and field instruments 40 (40A, 40B, ...). Here, the management server 10, the instrument database 20, the control instrument 30, and the field instrument 40 are connected to each other in a wired or wireless manner via a predetermined communication network (not shown). In addition, various communication networks such as the Internet and dedicated lines can be used for the predetermined communication network.

[0024] (1-1-1. Management Server 10)

[0025] The management server 10 is an information processing device that manages at least one control system. For example, the management server 10 is implemented by a GDS (Global Discovery Server) that manages a control system based on OPC UA (Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture), an HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) server with an OPC UA client function, etc. Figure 1 The automation system 100 shown may include multiple management servers 10. In addition, the management server 10 may be implemented by a cloud environment, a field environment, an edge environment, etc.

[0026] Here, the control system refers to a system for controlling the process of the workshop, which is composed of field instruments 40 and the like controlled by the control instrument 30 in addition to the control instrument 30. For example, the control system is implemented by a DCN (Distributed Control Node) as a controller, an instrument group that manages the DCN, and an instrument group controlled by the DCN. Figure 1In the example, there are multiple control systems including control system A for controlling the process of workshop A, control system B for controlling the process of workshop B, ... In addition, workshops are, for example, production facilities for petroleum / petrochemical, gas, iron / non-iron, chemical, electric power, food and medicine, etc.

[0027] (1-1-2. Instrument database 20)

[0028] The instrument database 20 is a storage device that stores individual information of at least one control system, and is implemented by a database server or the like set up in a cloud environment. In addition, the instrument database 20 can be implemented by REST (Representational State Transfer) in order to be able to form a structure that is disconnected from the management server 10. In addition, Figure 1 The automation system 100 shown may include a plurality of instrument databases 20. In addition, the instrument database 20 may be integrated with the management server 10.

[0029] (1-1-3. Control device 30)

[0030] The control device 30 is a plant instrument that controls a plurality of field instruments 40 constituting a plant, and is a setting device. For example, the control device 30 is implemented by a controller. In addition, the control device 30 is managed by an engineer E (EA, EB, ...) who performs maintenance and inspection of the control system of the plant. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , the control device 30A constituting the control system A is managed by the engineer EA. In addition, the control device 30B constituting the control system B is managed by the engineer EB.

[0031] (1-1-4. Field instrument 40)

[0032] The field instrument 40 is a plant instrument constituting a plant. For example, the field instrument 40 is implemented by measuring instruments such as a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, and a flow sensor, and operating instruments such as an actuator. Figure 1 In the example, the field device 40A constituting the plant A includes the field device 40A-1, the field device 40A-2, the field device 40A-3, ... In addition, the field device 40B constituting the plant B includes the field device 40B-1, the field device 40B-2, the field device 40B-3, ... .

[0033] (1-2. Processing Example of the Whole Automation System 100)

[0034] The above-described overall processing of the automation system 100 will be described. In addition, the processing of steps S1 to S4 described below may be performed in a different order. In addition, some of the processing of steps S1 to S4 described below may be omitted.

[0035] (1-2-1. Individual information registration process)

[0036] First, the instrument database 20 registers individual information (step S1). For example, the instrument database 20 receives and stores individual information of each control system input by an engineer E via an engineer terminal.

[0037] Here, individual information refers to the individual information of the control instrument set for each control system in the workshop, such as information including the vendor name of the control system, the instrument name of the control instrument 30 constituting the control system, the IP (Internet Protocol) address, input and output information, the performance of the control system, etc.

[0038] (1-2-2. Input and output information acquisition process)

[0039] Second, the management server 10 obtains input / output information from the instrument database 20 (step S2). For example, the management server 10 receives an input / output setting request from the control instrument 30A constituting the control system A, and obtains the input / output information of the control instrument 30A by referring to the individual information in the instrument database 20.

[0040] Here, the input / output information refers to information defining input / output settings associated with each control device 30, for example, the input / output type of data of each input / output channel of the control device 30. In addition, the input / output type is "AI (Analog Input)", "AO (Analog Output)", "DI (Digital Input)", "DO (Digital Output)", etc.

[0041] In addition, the control device 30 sends an input / output setting request to the management server 10 when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 for the first time or when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 after the system configuration is changed. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 5 , the control device 30A transmits an input / output setting request to the management server 10 when the control device 30A is connected for the first time or when the configuration of the field device 40A connected to the control device 30A is changed.

[0042] (1-2-3. Input / output information transmission process)

[0043] Third, the management server 10 transmits the input / output information to the control device 30 (step S3). The management server 10 transmits the input / output information {CH1: AO, CH2: AO, CH3: DO, ...} of the control device 30A to the control device 30A that has transmitted the input / output setting request.

[0044] (1-2-4. Input / output setting processing)

[0045] Fourthly, the control device 30 sets the input and output of the data of the control device 30 (step S4). For example, the control device 30A constituting the control system A executes an API (Application Programming Interface) call to execute the input and output setting of the data, calls the setting API required for the input and output setting of each system vendor, and executes the setting of the input and output module.

[0046] exist Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , the control device 30A sets “AO” for the input / output channel 1 of the input / output module, sets “AO” for the input / output channel 2, and sets “DO” for the input / output channel 3.

[0047] (1-3. Specific Examples of Each Process of the Automation System 100)

[0048] Here, using Figure 2 A specific example of each process of the automation system 100 will be described. Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing a specific example of each process of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Figure 2 In the example, the control instrument 30A provided by the system supplier "Company A" is set to "DCN1", and the control instrument 30B provided by the system supplier "Company B" is set to "DCN2", and the input and output information of "DCN1" of "Company A" is set to {CH1:AO, CH2:AO, CH3:DO}, and the input and output information of "DCN2" of "Company B" is set to {CH1:AI, CH2:DI, CH3:DO}.

[0049] In addition, Figure 2 In the example, "DCN1" and "DCN2" have "OPA server" as an application with a common API for input and output settings. Here, "OPA server" has an "IO driver I / F" which is an interface in accordance with the specification of OPA (Open Process Automation) which is a standard specification group. In addition, in the automation system 100, in order for "DCN1" and "DCN2" to join the network, individual information (IP address, OPC UA capabilities, etc.) of the control instrument 30 is registered and managed in the instrument database 20.

[0050] No. 1, such as Figure 2As shown in (1), "DCN1" transmits an input / output setting request of "DCN1" to the management server 10 via the "OPA server" of "DCN1". Similarly, "DCN2" transmits an input / output setting request of "DCN2" to the management server 10 via the "OPA server" of "DCN2".

[0051] Second, as Figure 2 As shown in (2), when receiving the input / output setting request of "DCN1", the management server 10 obtains the input / output information of "DCN1" from the meter database 20. Similarly, when receiving the input / output setting request of "DCN2", the management server 10 obtains the input / output information of "DCN2" from the meter database 20.

[0052] No. 3, such as Figure 2 As shown in (3), the management server 10 transmits the acquired input / output information of "DCN1" to "DCN1". Similarly, the management server 10 transmits the acquired input / output information of "DCN2" to "DCN2".

[0053] No. 4, such as Figure 2 As shown in (4), "DCN1" calls "SetIO", which is an input / output setting API common to vendors, based on the input / output information {CH1: AO, CH2: AO, CH3: DO} of "DCN1" in the "OPA server" of "DCN1". At this time, "DCN1" calls "SetIO_A", an input / output setting API classified by vendor, and uses the IO driver for "Company A" to perform the input / output setting of "input module" and "output module". Therefore, "DCN1" can call the driver without depending on the system vendor by providing the API interface.

[0054] Similarly, "DCN2" calls "SetIO", which is an input / output setting API common to vendors, based on the input / output information {CH1: AI, CH2: DI, CH3: DO} of "DCN2" in the "OPA server" of "DCN2". At this time, "DCN2" calls "SetIO_B", an input / output setting API classified by vendor, and uses the IO driver for "Company B" to perform input / output settings of "Input Module" and "Output Module". Therefore, "DCN2" can call the driver independently of the system vendor by providing the API interface.

[0055] In the above example, both "DCN1" and "DCN2" set "DO" for "CH3", but the setting methods are different in the IO drivers of "Company A" and "Company B". For example, "DCN1" executes "SetIO_A" corresponding to "CH3:DO" and performs input and output settings. On the other hand, "DCN2" executes "SetIO_B" corresponding to "CH3:DO" and performs input and output settings. However, the "OPA server" calls the common API "SetIO" in any case. Therefore, when the system vendor performs input and output settings from the "OPA server" in the automation system, there is no need to distinguish between the "OPA server" for "Company A" and the "OPA server" for "Company B".

[0056] In order to implement the above Figure 2 The processing shown in (4) is, for example, that each system vendor sets the association between the common API and the API of different vendors when constructing each "OPA server" and assembles it in each DCN. In addition, each system vendor can associate the common API with the API of different vendors by setting the "OPA server" assembled in each DCN.

[0057] (1-4. Effects of Automation System 100)

[0058] Next, the effects of the automation system 100 will be described after describing the problems of the automation system 100P according to the reference technology.

[0059] (1-4-1. Problems with Automation System 100P)

[0060] In the automation system 100P, the conversion to OPC UA, which is a standard specification, is performed, but control systems including DCNs of multiple vendors coexist. In the above environment, the input and output settings of the control device 30P involved in the reference technology need to be implemented separately for each system vendor, so when the number of control devices 30P is large, the engineering man-hours are huge.

[0061] (1-4-2. Overview of Automation System 100)

[0062] In the automation system 100, the following processes are performed. First, the instrument database 20 registers individual information defining the input / output settings of each control instrument 30. Second, the management server 10 acquires the input / output information from the instrument database 20 in response to the input / output setting request of the control instrument 30. Third, the management server 10 transmits the input / output information to the control instrument 30 that requested the input / output setting. Fourth, the control instrument 30 sets the input / output of the data of the control instrument 30 using the received input / output information.

[0063] At this time, in the automation system 100 , the control devices 30 execute input / output settings of each control device 30 using an IO driver for input / output settings of each system vendor via an application having a common method for input / output settings installed in the control devices 30 .

[0064] (1-4-3. Effects of Automation System 100)

[0065] As described above, in the automation system 100, in an environment where control devices 30 from multiple vendors coexist, it is possible to automate the input / output settings of the control devices 30, and it is possible to reduce the man-hours of the project performed by the engineer E. That is, the automation system 100 can prevent human errors and efficiently perform the project related to the input / output settings of the data of the automation system of the workshop.

[0066] [2. Configuration and processing of each device of the automation system 100]

[0067] use Figure 3 right Figure 1 The configuration and processing of each device included in the illustrated automation system 100 will be described. Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing a configuration example of each device of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Next, after explaining the configuration example of the entire automation system 100 according to the embodiment, a configuration example and a processing example of the management server 10, a configuration example and a processing example of the instrument database 20, a configuration example and a processing example of the control device 30, and a configuration example and a processing example of the field device 40 are explained in detail.

[0068] (2-1. Example of Overall Configuration of Automation System 100)

[0069] use Figure 3 right Figure 1 The overall structure of the automation system 100 shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the automation system 100 includes a management server 10 as an information processing device, an instrument database 20, a control device 30 as a setting device, and a field device 40. In addition, the management server 10, the instrument database 20, the control device 30, and the field device 40 can be connected in a communicative manner using a communication network N implemented by the Internet, a dedicated line, etc.

[0070] At this time, the management server 10 can be implemented by a cloud environment, a field environment, an edge environment, etc. In addition, the control instrument 30 and the field instrument 40 constitute a control system for controlling the system. Here, the system refers to, for example, a workshop. In addition, the control system performs, for example, control of the workshop. The field instrument 40 is set at the workshop site.

[0071] The control device 30 is compliant with, for example, OPA, MTP (Module Type Package) or NOA (NAMUR Open Architecture), which are standard specifications.

[0072] In addition, the control device 30 complies with OPC UA which is a standard specification, for example.

[0073] (2-2. Configuration Example and Processing Example of Management Server 10)

[0074] use Figure 3 The following describes a configuration example and a processing example of the management server 10. The management server 10 is an information processing device, and includes a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13. In addition, the management server 10 may include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) for accepting various operations from the administrator of the management server 10, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) for displaying various information.

[0075] (2-2-1. Communications Department 11)

[0076] The communication unit 11 manages data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 11 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. In addition, the communication unit 11 can perform data communication with a terminal of an operator (not shown).

[0077] (2-2-2. Storage Unit 12)

[0078] The storage unit 12 stores various information that is referenced when the control unit 13 performs an action, and various information that is acquired when the control unit 13 performs an action. Here, the storage unit 12 can be implemented by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 1 , the storage unit 12 is provided inside the management server 10, but may be provided outside the management server 10, or a plurality of storage units may be provided. In addition, the storage unit 12 may store individual information stored in the individual information storage unit 21 of the meter database 20 described later.

[0079] (2-2-3. Control unit 13)

[0080] The control unit 13 is in charge of the overall control of the management server 10. The control unit 13 includes a receiving unit 13a, an acquiring unit 13b, and a sending unit 13c. Here, the control unit 13 can be implemented by electronic circuits such as CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (MicroProcessing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and the like.

[0081] (2-2-3-1. Receiving Unit 13a)

[0082] The receiving unit 13a receives various information. In addition, the receiving unit 13a can store the received various information in the storage unit 12. For example, the receiving unit 13a receives a request for data input / output setting of the control device 30 that performs system control from the control device 30. In addition, the receiving unit 13a receives a request for data input / output setting sent from the control device 30 when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 for the first time. In addition, the receiving unit 13a receives a request for data input / output setting sent from the control device 30 when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 after the system configuration is changed.

[0083] To explain a specific example, the accepting unit 13a accepts an input / output setting request including the IP address “XXX.XXX.AAA.001” of the control device 30A transmitted from the control device 30A when the control device 30A of the control system A is initially set. In addition, the accepting unit 13a accepts an input / output setting request including the IP address “XXX.XXX.BBB.001” of the control device 30B transmitted from the control device 30B after the field device 40B of the control system B is replaced.

[0084] (2-2-3-2. Acquisition Unit 13b)

[0085] The acquisition unit 13b receives various information. In addition, the acquisition unit 13b can store the acquired various information in the storage unit 12. For example, when a request for input / output setting of data of a control device 30 that performs system control is received, the acquisition unit 13b acquires input / output information that defines the input / output setting associated with each control device 30.

[0086] In addition, the acquisition unit 13b acquires input / output information that defines the input / output type of data of each input / output channel of the control device 30, which is associated with each identification information of the control device 30. At this time, when a request for input / output setting of data of the control device 30 is accepted, the acquisition unit 13b refers to a predetermined database that stores the input / output information, and acquires the input / output information associated with each identification information of the control device 30 that has accepted the request. Here, the identification information is, for example, an IP address, but is not particularly limited as long as it is information for identifying the control device 30.

[0087] To explain a specific example, when an input / output setting request including the IP address “XXX.XXX.AAA.001” of the control device 30A is received from the control device 30A of the control system A, the acquisition unit 13b refers to the individual information storage unit 21 of the meter database 20, and acquires the input / output information {CH1: AO, CH2: AO, CH3: DO, ...} of the control device 30A associated with the IP address “XXX.XXX.AAA.001” of the control device 30A. In addition, when an input / output setting request including the IP address “XXX.XXX.BBB.001” of the control device 30B is received from the control device 30B of the control system B, the acquisition unit 13b refers to the individual information storage unit 21 of the meter database 20, and acquires the input / output information {CH1: AI, CH2: DI, CH3: DO, ...} of the control device 30B associated with the IP address “XXX.XXX.BBB.001” of the control device 30B.

[0088] When receiving a request for data input / output setting sent from the control device 30 when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 for the first time or when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network after a system configuration change, the acquisition unit 13b acquires input / output information.

[0089] To explain a specific example, when receiving an input / output setting request including the IP address “XXX.XXX.AAA.001” of the control device 30A transmitted from the control device 30A in the initial setting of the control device 30A of the control system A, the receiving unit 13a refers to the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrument database 20 to obtain the input / output information {CH1: AO, CH2: AO, CH3: DO, ...} of the control device 30A of the control system A. In addition, when receiving an input / output setting request including the IP address “XXX.XXX.BBB.001” of the control device 30B transmitted from the control device 30B after the field device 40B of the control system B is replaced, the receiving unit 13a refers to the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrument database 20 to obtain the input / output information {CH1: AI, CH2: DI, CH3: DO, ...} of the control device 30B of the control system B.

[0090] (2-2-3-3. Transmitting unit 13c)

[0091] The transmission unit 13c transmits various information. In addition, the transmission unit 13c acquires various information acquired by the acquisition unit 13b. In addition, the transmission unit 13c acquires various information stored in the storage unit 12. For example, the transmission unit 13c transmits input / output information to the control device 30 that has received a request for input / output setting of data.

[0092] To explain a specific example, when an input / output setting request is received from the control device 30A of the control system A, the transmission unit 13c transmits the input / output information {CH1: AO, CH2: AO, CH3: DO, ...} of the control device 30A of the control system A to the control device 30A. Also, when an input / output setting request is received from the control device 30B of the control system B, the transmission unit 13c transmits the input / output information {CH1: AI, CH2: DI, CH3: DO, ...} of the control device 30B of the control system B to the control device 30B.

[0093] (2-3. Configuration Example and Processing Example of Meter Database 20)

[0094] use Figure 3 The configuration example and processing example of the meter database 20 are described. The meter database 20 is a storage device, and has an individual information storage unit 21. Here, the individual information storage unit 21 can be implemented by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. In addition, the meter database 20 can be a structure integrated with the aforementioned management server 10.

[0095] (2-3-1. Individual Information Storage Unit 21)

[0096] The individual information storage unit 21 stores individual information. For example, the individual information storage unit 21 stores individual information including input and output information of each control system input by the engineer E via the engineer terminal. Figure 4 An example of data stored in the individual information storage unit 21 will be described. Figure 4 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the individual information storage unit 21 of the meter database 20 according to the embodiment. Figure 4 In the example of , the individual information storage unit 21 has items such as “DCN provider”, “control device”, “IP address”, “input and output information”, and “performance”.

[0097] "DCN provider" indicates identification information for identifying a system provider that provides a control system, such as the company name of the system provider. "Control instrument" indicates identification information for identifying a control instrument 30 that constitutes a control system, such as an identification number or identification mark of the control instrument 30. "IP address" indicates identification information for identifying a control instrument 30 on a communication network, such as an identification number or identification mark assigned to the control instrument 30. "Input and output information" is information that defines input and output settings associated with each control instrument 30, such as the input and output type of data for each input and output channel of the control instrument 30 that constitutes the control system (e.g., "AI", "AO", "DI", "DO"). "Performance" indicates the performance of the control system, such as the specifications and version information of the alarms of the control system.

[0098] That is, in Figure 4 The following example is shown, that is, data about the DCN vendor identified by "Company A" as {control instrument: "Control instrument DCN-A001", IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001", input-output information: "CH1: AO / CH2: AO / CH3: DO", performance: "Alarm AL2.00", ...}, and data about the DCN vendor identified by "Company B" as {control instrument: "Control instrument DCN-B001", IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001", input-output information: "CH1: AI / CH2: DI / CH3: DO", performance: "Alarm AL1.00", ...}, etc. are stored in the individual information storage unit 21.

[0099] (2-4. Configuration Example and Processing Example of Control Device 30)

[0100] use Figure 3 The following describes a configuration example and a processing example of the control device 30 . The control device 30 is a setting device that controls a plurality of devices constituting the control system, and includes a control unit 31 and a communication unit 34 .

[0101] (2-4-1. Control unit 31)

[0102] The control unit 31 controls the entire control device 30. The control unit 31 includes an execution unit 31a, a transceiver unit 31b, and a setting unit 31c. The control unit 31 can be realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU or MPU, or an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0103] (2-4-1-1. Execution Unit 31a)

[0104] The execution unit 31a executes various controls. For example, the execution unit 31a collects measurement values ​​from the field device 40 constituting the control system. In addition, the execution unit 31a can calculate a calculated value based on the measurement values ​​collected from the field device 40. In addition, the execution unit 31a controls the field device 40 by sending a control signal.

[0105] (2-4-1-2. Transceiver 31b)

[0106] The transceiver 31b performs transmission and reception of various information. For example, the transceiver 31b transmits a request for input / output setting of data of the control device 30 to the management server 10. In addition, the transceiver 31b receives input / output information transmitted from the management server 10.

[0107] At this time, the transceiver 31b sends a request for data input / output settings to the management server 10, and receives input / output information defining the input / output settings associated with each control device 30 that performs system control from the management server 10. In addition, the transceiver 31b receives input / output information defining the input / output type of data for each input / output channel of the control device 30 associated with each piece of identification information of the control device 30.

[0108] To explain a specific example, the transceiver 31b sends an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001" of the control device 30A of the control system A to the management server 10, and receives the input / output information {CH1: AO, CH2: AO, CH3: DO, ...} of the control device 30A associated with the IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001" of the control device 30A sent from the management server 10 that received the input / output setting request. In addition, the transceiver 31b sends an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001" of the control device 30B of the control system B to the management server 10, and receives the input / output information {CH1: AI, CH2: DI, CH3: DO, ...} of the control device 30B associated with the IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001" of the control device 30B sent from the management server 10 that received the input / output setting request.

[0109] When the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 for the first time or when the control system including the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 after the system configuration is changed, the transceiver 31 b sends a request for data input / output settings to the management server 10 .

[0110] To explain a specific example, the transceiver 31b transmits the IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001" of the control device 30A to the management server 10 when the control device 30A of the control system A is initially set. In addition, after the field device 40B of the control system B is replaced, the transceiver 31b transmits an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001" of the control device 30B to the management server 10.

[0111] (2-4-1-3. Setting unit 31c)

[0112] The setting unit 31c performs various settings. The setting unit 31c uses the input / output information to call the API corresponding to the input / output setting, and sets the input / output module of the control device 30. At this time, when the input / output information is received from the management server 10 that has sent a request for the input / output setting of data, the setting unit 31c uses the input / output information to call the API corresponding to the input / output setting, and performs the setting of the input / output module of the control device 30 as the present device. In addition, the setting unit 31c uses the input / output information to call a common API in the system related to the input / output setting, and further calls an API corresponding to the input / output setting that is different for each system, and performs the setting of the input / output module of the control device 30 as the present device.

[0113] To illustrate a specific example, the setting unit 31c uses the input and output information of the control instrument 30A of the control system A received from the management server 10 to execute an API call. After calling the common API common to the control systems, it calls the setting API of "Company A" associated with the common API, and executes the driver "Driver-A-AO" of "Company A" required for the input and output settings of channel 1 of the control instrument 30A, the driver "Driver-A-AO" of "Company A" required for the input and output settings of channel 2 of the control instrument 30A, and the driver "Driver-A-DO" of "Company A" required for the input and output settings of channel 3 of the control instrument 30A, thereby executing the settings of the input and output module of the control instrument 30A of the control system A.

[0114] In addition, the setting unit 31c uses the input and output information of the control instrument 30B of the control system B received from the management server 10 to execute an API call, and after calling the common API common to the control systems, calls the setting API of "Company B" associated with the common API, and executes the driver "Driver-B-AI" of "Company B" required for the input and output settings of channel 1 of the control instrument 30B, the driver "Driver-B-DI" of "Company B" required for the input and output settings of channel 2 of the control instrument 30B, and the driver "Driver-B-DO" of "Company B" required for the input and output settings of channel 3 of the control instrument 30B, thereby executing the settings of the input and output module of the control instrument 30B of the control system B.

[0115] (2-4-2. Communications Department 32)

[0116] The communication unit 32 manages data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 32 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. In addition, the communication unit 32 can perform data communication with a terminal of an operator (not shown).

[0117] (2-5. Field instrument 40)

[0118] use Figure 3 The configuration example and processing example of the field instrument 40 are described. The field instrument 40 is a measuring instrument such as a sensor instrument constituting a control system, and measures a sensor value and a process value. At this time, the field instrument 40 sends the measured sensor value and process value to the control instrument 30 constituting the control system as a measured value. In addition, the field instrument 40 is an action instrument such as an actuator constituting a control system, and performs process control such as opening and closing of a valve according to a control signal received from the control instrument 30 constituting the control system.

[0119] [3. Flow of Each Process of the Automation System 100]

[0120] use Figure 5 The overall processing flow of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 5 This is a sequence diagram showing an example of the overall process flow of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Hereinafter, the individual information registration process, the input / output information acquisition process, and the input / output information setting process will be described in order.

[0121] (3-1. Overall processing flow of the automation system 100)

[0122] Next, the flow of the individual information registration process of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. In addition, the processes of the following steps S101 to S104 may be performed in a different order. In addition, some of the processes of the following steps S101 to S104 may be omitted.

[0123] First, the engineer EA performs individual information input processing (step S101). For example, the engineer EA inputs individual information including the IP address of the control device 30A, the input / output information of the control device 30A, and the performance into the instrument database 20 via the engineer terminal. Second, the instrument database 20 performs individual information storage processing (step S102). For example, the instrument database 20 stores the individual information of the control system A input from the engineer EA in the individual information storage unit 21.

[0124] Third, the engineer EB performs individual information input processing (step S103). For example, the engineer EB inputs individual information including the IP address of the control device 30B, the input / output information of the control device 30B, and the performance into the instrument database 20 via the engineer terminal. Fourth, the instrument database 20 performs individual information storage processing (step S104). For example, the instrument database 20 stores the individual information of the control system B input from the engineer EB in the individual information storage unit 21.

[0125] (3-2. Flow of input and output information acquisition process)

[0126] Next, the flow of the input / output information acquisition process of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. In addition, the processes of the following steps S201 to S210 may be performed in a different order. In addition, some of the processes of the following steps S201 to S210 may be omitted.

[0127] First, the control device 30A performs an input / output setting request process (step S201). For example, when the control device 30A of the control system A is initially set, the control device 30A sends an input / output setting request including the identification information of the control device 30A to the management server 10. Second, the management server 10 performs an input / output information reference process (step S202). For example, the management server 10 searches the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrument database 20 based on the identification information of the control device 30A. Third, the instrument database 20 performs an input / output information output process (step S203). For example, the instrument database 20 outputs the input / output information corresponding to the identification information of the control device 30A to the management server 10. Fourth, the management server 10 performs an input / output information reception process (step S204). For example, the management server 10 receives the input / output information corresponding to the identification information of the control device 30A from the instrument database 20. Fifth, the management server 10 performs an input / output information transmission process (step S205). For example, the management server 10 transmits the input / output information acquired from the meter database 20 to the control device 30A.

[0128] Sixth, the control device 30B performs input / output setting request processing (step S206). For example, when the field device 40B of the control system B is replaced, the control device 30B sends an input / output setting request including the identification information of the control device 30B to the management server 10. Seventh, the management server 10 performs input / output information reference processing (step S207). For example, the management server 10 searches the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrument database 20 based on the identification information of the control device 30B. Eighth, the instrument database 20 performs input / output information output processing (step S208). For example, the instrument database 20 outputs the input / output information corresponding to the identification information of the control device 30B to the management server 10. Ninth, the management server 10 performs input / output information reception processing (step S209). For example, the management server 10 receives the input / output information corresponding to the identification information of the control device 30B from the instrument database 20. Tenth, the management server 10 performs input / output information transmission processing (step S210). For example, the management server 10 transmits the input / output information acquired from the meter database 20 to the control device 30B.

[0129] (3-3. Flow of input / output information setting process)

[0130] Next, the flow of the input / output information setting process of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. In addition, the processes of steps S301 to S304 described below may be performed in a different order. In addition, some of the processes of steps S301 to S304 described below may be omitted.

[0131] First, the control device 30A performs an API call process (step S301). For example, the control device 30A calls a common API based on the received input / output information. Second, the control device 30A performs an input / output setting process (step S302). For example, the control device 30A calls an input / output setting API for each system vendor associated with the common API to set the input / output module of the control device 30A.

[0132] Third, the control device 30B performs an API call process (step S303). For example, the control device 30B calls the common API based on the received input / output information. Fourth, the control device 30B performs an input / output setting process (step S304). For example, the control device 30B calls the input / output setting API of each system vendor associated with the common API to set the input / output module of the control device 30B.

[0133] [4. Effects of implementation]

[0134] Finally, the effects of the embodiment will be described. Next, effects 1 to 10 corresponding to the processing according to the embodiment will be described.

[0135] (4-1. Effect 1)

[0136] First, in the process according to the above-mentioned embodiment, the control device 30 sends a request for input / output setting of data to the management server 10, receives input / output information defining the input / output setting associated with each control device 30 that performs control of the system from the management server 10, and performs the input / output setting of the device based on the received input / output information. Therefore, in this process, human errors can be prevented, and the works related to the input / output setting of data of the automation system can be efficiently implemented.

[0137] (4-2. Effect 2)

[0138] Second, in the process according to the above embodiment, when receiving input / output information from the management server 10 that has sent a request for input / output setting of data, the control device 30 uses the input / output information to call an API corresponding to the input / output setting and execute the setting of the input / output module of the device. Therefore, in this process, by automatically executing the input / output setting that is different for each control system, human errors can be prevented and the project related to the input / output setting of data of the automation system can be effectively implemented.

[0139] (4-3. Effect 3)

[0140] Third, in the process involved in the above-mentioned embodiment, the control device 30 uses the input / output information to call the API common to the control system related to the input / output setting, and then calls the API corresponding to the input / output setting that is different for each control system, and executes the setting of the input / output module of the device. Therefore, in this process, by automatically executing the input / output setting common to the control system and the input / output setting that is different for each control system, it is possible to prevent human errors and effectively implement the project related to the input / output setting of the data of the automation system.

[0141] (4-4. Effect 4)

[0142] Fourth, in the process according to the above-mentioned embodiment, the control device 30 receives input / output information that defines the input / output type of data of each input / output channel of the control device 30, which is associated with each piece of identification information of the control device 30. Therefore, in this process, by automatically performing input / output settings using the individual input / output information of the control device 30, human errors can be prevented, and the process related to the input / output settings of the data of the automation system can be efficiently implemented.

[0143] (4-5. Effect 5)

[0144] Fifth, in the process according to the above-mentioned embodiment, when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 for the first time, or when the control system including the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 after the system configuration is changed, the management server 10 obtains the input / output information when an input / output setting request sent from the control device 30 is received. Therefore, in this process, by executing the initial connection of the control system to the communication network and automatically executing the input / output setting based on the connection after the change, human errors can be prevented, and the process related to the input / output setting of the data of the automation system can be efficiently implemented.

[0145] (4-6. Effect 6)

[0146] Sixth, in the process according to the above embodiment, the control device 30 is based on OPA, MTP or NOA. Therefore, in this process, human errors can be prevented and the process related to the input and output settings of data of the automation system which is being standardized as an international standard can be efficiently implemented.

[0147] (4-7. Effect 7)

[0148] Seventh, in the process according to the above embodiment, the control device 30 is based on OPC UA. Therefore, in this process, human errors can be prevented and the process related to the input and output settings of the automation system based on OPC UA can be efficiently performed.

[0149] (4-8. Effect 8)

[0150] Eighth, in the process according to the above embodiment, the control device 30 executes the control of the plant. Therefore, in this process, human errors can be prevented and the process related to the input and output settings of the data of the automation system of the plant requiring safety can be efficiently performed.

[0151] (4-9. Effect 9)

[0152] Ninth, in the process according to the above-mentioned embodiment, when a request for setting input / output of data of the control device 30 is received, the management server 10 acquires input / output information defining the input / output setting associated with each control device 30, and transmits the input / output information to the control device 30 that received the request for setting input / output of data. Therefore, in this process, by using the management server 10, human errors can be prevented, and the work related to the input / output setting of data of the automation system can be efficiently performed.

[0153] (4-10. Effect 10)

[0154] Tenth, in the process according to the above-mentioned embodiment, when a request for setting input / output of data is accepted, the management server 10 refers to a predetermined database storing input / output information, and acquires input / output information associated with each identification information of the control device 30 for which the request for setting input / output of data is accepted. Therefore, in this process, by automatically performing input / output setting using the input / output information of each control device 30 registered in advance, human errors can be prevented, and the work related to the input / output setting of data of the automation system can be efficiently performed.

[0155] [system]

[0156] The information including the processing sequence, control sequence, specific names, various data, and parameters described above and shown in the drawings can be arbitrarily changed except for cases where special description is given.

[0157] In addition, the components of each device shown in the figure are functional concepts and may not be physically configured as shown in the figure. That is, the specific way of distributing and integrating each device is not limited to the way shown in the figure. That is, all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed / integrated in arbitrary units according to various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0158] Furthermore, all or any part of each processing function performed by each device may be realized by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or may be realized as hardware based on wired logic.

[0159] [hardware]

[0160] Next, a hardware configuration example of the management server 10 as the information management device will be described. In addition, other devices such as the control device 30 may also be configured with the same hardware configuration. Figure 6 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of a hardware configuration involved in the implementation scheme. Figure 6 As shown, the management server 10 includes a communication device 10a, a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 10b, a memory 10c, and a processor 10d. Figure 6 The various components shown are connected to each other by a bus or the like.

[0161] The communication device 10a is a network interface card, etc., and performs communication with other servers. Figure 3 The functions shown are stored in programs and databases that execute actions.

[0162] The processor 10d reads and executes data from the HDD 10b or the like. Figure 3 The same processing program is developed in the memory 10c so that the execution Figure 3 The process of each function described in the above etc. executes the action. For example, this process executes the same function as each processing unit of the management server 10. Specifically, the processor 10d reads a program having the same function as the receiving unit 13a, the acquiring unit 13b, the sending unit 13c, etc. from the HDD 10b, etc. Then, the processor 10d executes the following process, that is, executing the same processing as the receiving unit 13a, the acquiring unit 13b, the sending unit 13c, etc.

[0163] In this way, the management server 10 performs actions as a device that executes various processing methods by reading and executing programs. In addition, the management server 10 can also read the above-mentioned program from the recording medium using a medium reading device and execute the read-out above-mentioned program, thereby realizing the same functions as the above-mentioned embodiment. In addition, the programs mentioned in other embodiments are not limited to being executed by the management server 10. For example, when other computers or servers execute the program, or when they cooperate to execute the program, the present invention can also be applied in the same way.

[0164] The program can be deployed via a network such as the Internet. In addition, the program can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a floppy disk (FD), a CD-ROM, an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), and read from the recording medium by a computer for execution.

Claims

1. A control device, wherein: The control device has: a transceiver for sending a request for input / output settings of data to an information processing device, and receiving input / output information defining the input / output settings associated with a control device that performs control of a system from the information processing device; as well as A setting unit executes the input / output setting of the device based on the received input / output information.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: When receiving the input / output information from the information processing device that has sent the request, the setting unit calls an application program interface corresponding to the input / output setting using the input / output information to execute setting of an input / output module of the device.

3. The control device according to claim 2, wherein: The setting unit uses the input / output information to call an application program interface common to the systems related to the input / output settings, and also calls an application program interface corresponding to the input / output settings that are different for each system, to execute settings of the input / output module of the instrument.

4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The transceiver receives the input / output information that defines the input / output type of data of each input / output channel of the control device in association with the identification information of the control device.

5. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The transceiver transmits the request to the information processing device when the control device is connected to the communication network including the information processing device for the first time or when the control system including the control device is connected to the communication network after the system configuration is changed.

6. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The control instrument is in accordance with OPA, MTP or NOA, wherein the OPA is open process automation, the MTP is a modular data package, and the NOA is a NAMUR open architecture.

7. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The control instrument complies with OPC UA, which is an open platform communication unified architecture.

8. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The control device performs control of the plant.

9. A setting method, wherein: The following processing is performed by the computer: sending a request for input / output settings of data to an information processing device, receiving input / output information defining the input / output settings associated with a control device that performs control of a system from the information processing device, The input / output setting of the device is executed based on the received input / output information.

10. A computer-readable recording medium having a setting program recorded thereon, wherein: The setting program causes the computer to execute the following processing: sending a request for input / output settings of data to an information processing device, receiving input / output information defining the input / output settings associated with a control device that performs control of a system from the information processing device, The input / output setting of the device is executed based on the received input / output information.

11. An information processing device, wherein: The information processing device comprises: an acquisition unit that, upon receiving a request for input / output setting of data of a control device that performs control of the system, acquires input / output information that defines the input / output setting and is associated with the control device; as well as A transmitting unit transmits input / output information to the control device that has accepted the request.

12. The information processing device according to claim 11, wherein: When the request is received, the acquisition unit refers to a predetermined database storing the input / output information, and acquires the input / output information associated with the identification information of the control device that has received the request.

Images