Data transmission method and device and electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention discloses a data transmission method and device and electronic equipment. The method comprises the following steps: acquiring a command request issued by an upper computer; the command request is sent to an advanced physical machine APL communication module through the switch for format conversion, the command request after format conversion is sent to the pressure transmitter instruments for processing, response information corresponding to the command request is generated, and one APL communication module is arranged in each pressure transmitter instrument; sending the response message to the APL communication module, and packaging the response message into an Ethernet packet format through the APL communication module; and returning the packaged response message to the upper computer through the switch. The technical problems of slow data transmission, relatively high operation and maintenance cost and resource waste due to the fact that a pressure transmitter instrument adopting protocols such as HART and FF / PA can access the Ethernet only through gateway equipment and the whole instrument equipment needs to be replaced when the pressure transmitter instrument is upgraded to an APL technology in the prior art are solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of APL communication technology, and more specifically, to a data transmission method, device, and electronic device. Background Art

[0002] In the field of industrial control and automation, particularly in process industries, pressure transmitters are essential measuring instruments used to monitor and transmit real-time differential pressure or pressure information of fluids. In current industrial control systems, pressure transmitters primarily communicate with control systems using fieldbus protocols such as HART or Fieldbus / PA. These protocols achieve data transmission by superimposing digital signals on a 4-20mA current loop. While these technologies offer excellent interference immunity, transmission distance, and two-wire power supply, their data transmission speed and capacity are limited, making them unable to meet the demands of modern industry for high-speed communication with large data volumes.

[0003] In recent years, with the maturity and widespread application of industrial Ethernet technology, APL (Advanced Physical Layer) technology has emerged to address the shortcomings of traditional protocols. Based on the 10BASE-T1L physical layer of the IEEE802.3cg-2019 standard, APL technology enables high-speed data transmission (up to 10 Mbps) over two-wire Ethernet. It also features long-distance communication (up to 1000 meters for Trunk and 200 meters for Spur), suitability for explosion-proof environments, co-location of power and communication lines, and micro-segment isolation, providing a more powerful and flexible communication solution for industrial automation.

[0004] However, the current large number of HART and FF / PA protocol instrumentation equipment in industrial sites, especially intelligent pressure transmitters, have a separate design of communication units and detection units, making it difficult to upgrade directly to APL technology. For example, the intelligent pressure transmitter using APL technology in related technologies is usually an integral structure. When replacing it, the entire instrument or its communication part needs to be replaced, which is not only costly but also may lead to waste of resources. The related Ethernet multi-protocol communication method also requires hardware dialing and data packet analysis to achieve multi-protocol switching, which is inconvenient to operate on site. The upgrade and switching process requires power off and restart, and there is a problem with the accuracy of protocol switching, which reduces the stability and safety of the equipment.

[0005] To address the above-mentioned problems, no effective solutions have been proposed so far. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The embodiments of the present application provide a data transmission method, device, and electronic device to at least solve the technical problems of slow data transmission, high operation and maintenance costs, and waste of resources caused by the fact that pressure transmitter instruments using protocols such as HART and FF / PA in related technologies need to be connected to the Ethernet through a gateway device, and the entire instrument equipment needs to be replaced when upgrading to APL technology.

[0007] According to one aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a data transmission method is provided, including: obtaining a command request issued by a host computer, wherein the command request is in Ethernet packet format; sending the command request to an advanced physical machine APL communication module through a switch for format conversion, and sending the command request after format conversion to a pressure transmitter instrument for processing, and generating a response message corresponding to the command request, wherein each pressure transmitter instrument has a built-in APL communication module, and the APL communication module is used to convert the command request into a data format that can be processed by the pressure transmitter instrument; sending the response message to the APL communication module, and encapsulating the response message into Ethernet packet format through the APL communication module; and returning the encapsulated response message to the host computer through the switch.

[0008] Optionally, the APL communication module uses a stamp hole containing 12 pins as an external interface. The length, width, and height of the APL communication module including the external protective cover are 32 mm, 22 mm, and 5 mm, respectively.

[0009] Optionally, the APL communication module includes at least an APL communication circuit, an Ethernet communication chip, an embedded microprocessor, a communication serial port, a DC-DC power supply, and a bus communication decoupling circuit.

[0010] Optionally, the Ethernet communication chip establishes a connection with the Ethernet through a two-wire Ethernet interface according to the 10BASE-T1L protocol.

[0011] Optionally, the model of the embedded microprocessor is LPC550x, and the embedded microprocessor further includes a communication protocol stack switching module, which is used to maintain the communication connection between the APL communication module and the host computer.

[0012] Optionally, the maximum withstand voltage of the power chip of the DC-DC power supply is not less than 90V, and the maximum withstand voltage of the decoupling capacitor of the communication decoupling circuit of the bus is not less than 100V.

[0013] Optionally, the APL communication module is upgraded online through flash memory technology, including: determining the available space of the flash memory; receiving firmware data uploaded by the user on the Web interface, and storing the firmware data according to the minimum sector unit in the flash memory; upon receiving a restart command issued by the Web interface, copying the firmware data stored in the tail area of ​​the available space to the head area of ​​the available space.

[0014] Optionally, the method also includes: receiving a configuration switching request initiated by a user on a Web interface, wherein the configuration switching request includes a target communication protocol specified by the user; formatting the configuration switching request to obtain configuration switching information; verifying the configuration switching information, and allowing switching to the target communication protocol if the configuration switching information verification passes, and not allowing switching to the target communication protocol if the configuration switching information verification fails.

[0015] According to another aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a data transmission device is also provided, including: an acquisition module for acquiring a command request issued by a host computer, wherein the command request is in Ethernet packet format; a processing module for sending the command request to the advanced physical machine APL communication module through a switch for format conversion, and sending the command request after format conversion to the pressure transmitter instrument for processing, and generating a response message corresponding to the command request, wherein each pressure transmitter instrument has a built-in APL communication module, and the APL communication module is used to convert the command request into a data format that can be processed by the pressure transmitter instrument; an encapsulation module for sending the response message to the APL communication module, and encapsulating the response message into Ethernet packet format through the APL communication module; and a return module for returning the encapsulated response message to the host computer through the switch.

[0016] According to another aspect of the embodiments of the present application, an electronic device is provided, including: a memory and a processor, wherein the memory is used to store program instructions; the processor is connected to the memory and is used to execute the above-mentioned data transmission method.

[0017] According to another aspect of the embodiments of the present application, a non-volatile storage medium is provided. The non-volatile storage medium includes a stored computer program, wherein the device where the non-volatile storage medium is located executes the above-mentioned data transmission method by running the computer program.

[0018] According to another aspect of the embodiments of the present application, a computer program product is provided, including computer instructions, which implement the above-mentioned data transmission method when executed by a processor.

[0019] In an embodiment of the present application, a command request issued by a host computer is obtained, wherein the command request is in Ethernet packet format; the command request is sent to the advanced physical machine APL communication module through a switch for format conversion, and the command request after format conversion is sent to the pressure transmitter instrument for processing, and a response message corresponding to the command request is generated, wherein each pressure transmitter instrument has an APL communication module built in, and the APL communication module is used to convert the command request into a data format that can be processed by the pressure transmitter instrument; the response message is sent to the APL communication module, and the response message is encapsulated into Ethernet packet format through the APL communication module; the encapsulated response message is returned to the host computer through the switch, thereby achieving the purpose of upgrading to APL technology without a large amount of hardware replacement, and realizing online switching of multiple protocols and firmware upgrades, thereby achieving the technical effect of comprehensive optimization of traditional instruments and significant improvement of industrial data transmission efficiency, thereby solving the technical problems of slow data transmission, high operation and maintenance costs and waste of resources caused by the pressure transmitter instruments using HART, FF / PA and other protocols in related technologies requiring access to Ethernet through a gateway device, and the entire instrument equipment needs to be replaced when upgrading to APL technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The drawings described herein are used to provide a further understanding of the present application and constitute a part of the present application. The illustrative embodiments of the present application and their descriptions are used to explain the present application and do not constitute an improper limitation on the present application. In the drawings:

[0021] Figure 1 is a hardware structure diagram of a computer terminal for implementing a data transmission method according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0022] Figure 2 is a flow chart of a data transmission method according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0023] Figure 3 1 is a hardware dimension diagram of an APL communication module according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0024] Figure 4 This is a pin package diagram of an APL communication module according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0025] Figure 5 This is a working principle diagram of an APL communication module according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0026] Figure 6 1 is a schematic diagram of a web page interface of an APL communication module according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0027] Figure 7 is a flowchart of another data transmission method according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0028] Figure 8 It is a structural diagram of a data transmission device according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] In order to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts should fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0030] It should be noted that the terms "first", "second", etc. in the specification and claims of the present application and the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequential order. It should be understood that the data used in this way can be interchangeable where appropriate, so that the embodiments of the present application described herein can be implemented in a sequence other than those illustrated or described herein. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any of their variations are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, for example, a process, method, system, product or device comprising a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units clearly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not clearly listed or inherent to these processes, methods, products or devices.

[0031] First, some nouns or terms that appear in the process of explaining the embodiments of this application are subject to the following explanations:

[0032] APL (Advanced Physical Layer): APL technology is a 10BASE-T1L physical layer technology based on the IEEE 802.3cg-2019 standard, used in industrial automation and process control. APL technology allows for the transmission of high-speed Ethernet data over traditional two-wire analog signal lines, with data transmission rates of up to 10Mbps. It also supports remote power delivery (PoDL), which allows power to be supplied to field devices simultaneously through the data line. This technology is specifically designed for industrial environments, with long-distance communication capabilities (up to 1000 meters for Trunk and 200 meters for Spur), suitable for high-explosion hazardous areas, and can achieve logical isolation of micro-grid segments to protect the network from interference from illegal messages.

[0033] HART (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer): A communications protocol for industrial automation process control equipment that allows bidirectional communication by superimposing digital signals on 4-20 mA analog current signals. Widely used between field instruments and control systems, the HART protocol boasts strong anti-interference capabilities, support for two-wire power supply, and remote device management.

[0034] HART-IP: An extension protocol developed by the HART Foundation that allows HART devices to communicate over Ethernet. HART-IP adds additional data to the HART protocol header, enabling field instruments to communicate with upper-level control systems over standard TCP / IP networks, thus resolving compatibility issues between HART devices and Ethernet.

[0035] PROFINET: An industrial Ethernet communication standard developed by PROFIBUS International, designed for high-speed, highly reliable data transmission. PROFINET is fully compatible with industrial Ethernet and fieldbus technologies, supporting real-time and asynchronous communication and services such as file transfer and Web services.

[0036] OPC UA (OPC Unified Architecture): A data exchange standard for industrial automation systems. It is the latest version of the OPC industry standard and aims to provide a unified, secure, and interoperable communication architecture.

[0037] SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface): A high-speed synchronous serial communication bus used for data exchange between microcontrollers and peripherals (such as sensors and memory).

[0038] UDP (User Datagram Protocol): UDP is a connectionless transport layer protocol that provides datagram transmission services. It does not guarantee the sequential arrival or error-free transmission of data, but it has high transmission efficiency and is suitable for scenarios such as real-time data transmission.

[0039] Trunk / Spur network: In the APL industrial control system, the Trunk network is the backbone network used to connect multiple APL communication modules, while the Spur network is the branch network used to connect a single or a few APL instruments.

[0040] Stamp hole: A connection point on a printed circuit board, designed as a small hole, typically used to connect small modules or boards to the main circuit board. In this application, the APL communication module uses a 12-pin stamp hole design to facilitate integration with other circuit boards.

[0041] In order to solve the problem of poor communication efficiency in the related art, the embodiment of the present application provides a data transmission method, which can be run on Figure 1 Among the computer terminals shown, the computer terminal will be described below.

[0042] The data transmission method embodiments provided in the embodiments of the present application can be executed in a mobile terminal, a computer terminal or a similar computing device. Figure 1 FIG1 shows a hardware structure block diagram of a computer terminal for implementing a data transmission method. Figure 1 As shown, the computer terminal 10 may include one or more (illustrated by 102a, 102b, ..., 102n in the figure) processors (the processor may include but is not limited to a processing device such as a microprocessor MCU or a programmable logic device FPGA), a memory 104 for storing data, and a transmission module 106 for communication functions connected via a wired and / or wireless network. In addition, it may also include: a display, a keyboard, a cursor control device, an input / output interface (I / O interface), a universal serial bus (USB) port (which may be included as one of the ports of the I / O interface), a network interface, and a BUS bus. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that Figure 1 The structure shown is only for illustration and does not limit the structure of the above electronic device. Figure 1 More or fewer components than shown, or with Figure 1 Different configurations shown.

[0043] It should be noted that the one or more processors and / or other data processing circuits described above may generally be referred to herein as "data processing circuitry." The data processing circuitry may be embodied in whole or in part as software, hardware, firmware, or any other combination thereof. Furthermore, the data processing circuitry may be a single, independent processing module, or may be incorporated in whole or in part into any of the other components of the computer terminal 10. As described in the embodiments of the present application, the data processing circuitry serves as a processor control (e.g., selection of a variable resistor terminal path connected to an interface).

[0044] The memory 104 can be used to store software programs and modules of application software, such as the program instructions / data storage device corresponding to the data transmission method in the embodiment of the present application. The processor executes various functional applications and data processing by running the software programs and modules stored in the memory 104, that is, realizing the above-mentioned data transmission method. The memory 104 may include a high-speed random access memory, and may also include a non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic storage devices, flash memory, or other non-volatile solid-state memory. In some instances, the memory 104 may further include a memory remotely located relative to the processor, and these remote memories may be connected to the computer terminal 10 via a network. Examples of the above-mentioned network include, but are not limited to, the Internet, an intranet, a local area network, a mobile communication network, and combinations thereof.

[0045] The transmission module 106 is configured to receive or transmit data via a network. A specific example of the aforementioned network may include a wireless network provided by the communications provider of the computer terminal 10. In one embodiment, the transmission module 106 includes a network interface controller (NIC), which can be connected to other network devices via a base station to enable communication with the Internet. In another embodiment, the transmission module 106 may be a radio frequency (RF) module, which is configured to communicate with the Internet wirelessly.

[0046] The display may be, for example, a touch screen liquid crystal display (LCD) that enables a user to interact with a user interface of the computer terminal 10 .

[0047] It should be noted that, in some optional embodiments, the above Figure 1 The computer terminal shown may include hardware elements (including circuits), software elements (including computer code stored on a computer-readable medium), or a combination of hardware elements and software elements. Figure 1 This is merely one example of a particular embodiment and is intended to illustrate the types of components that may be present in the computer terminal described above.

[0048] In the above-mentioned operating environment, an embodiment of the present application provides an embodiment of a data transmission method. It should be noted that the steps shown in the flowchart of the accompanying drawings can be executed in a computer system such as a set of computer-executable instructions, and although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described can be executed in an order different from that shown here.

[0049] Figure 2 is a flow chart of a data transmission method according to an embodiment of the present application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0050] Step S202: Obtain a command request sent by the host computer, wherein the command request is in an Ethernet packet format.

[0051] In step S202, within an industrial automation control system, a host computer (such as a PLC, DCS, or other control system) is responsible for managing, configuring, and monitoring field instrumentation. When data needs to be obtained from a pressure transmitter or a control command needs to be sent, the host computer sends the command request in the form of an Ethernet packet. These Ethernet packets typically contain specific operating instructions, device addresses, data types, and other information to accurately interact with the target instrument.

[0052] In step S204, the command request is sent to the advanced physical machine APL communication module through the switch for format conversion, and the format-converted command request is sent to the pressure transmitter instrument for processing, generating a response message corresponding to the command request. Each pressure transmitter instrument has a built-in APL communication module, which is used to convert the command request into a data format that can be processed by the pressure transmitter instrument.

[0053] In the above step S204, the switch can forward the data packet directly to the corresponding APL communication module based on the device address in the Ethernet packet. In the present application, each pressure transmitter instrument has a built-in APL communication module, which enables the instrument to directly access the Ethernet without the need for an additional gateway device. After receiving the command request in the Ethernet packet format, the APL communication module unpacks it, extracts the command information therein, and converts it into a communication format that the pressure transmitter instrument can understand. For example, if the pressure transmitter supports the HART communication protocol, the module needs to convert the Ethernet command into a HART protocol command. The command request after format conversion is then sent to the main board of the pressure transmitter, and is further processed by the processor or control unit therein.

[0054] Step S206: Send the response message to the APL communication module, and encapsulate the response message into an Ethernet packet format through the APL communication module.

[0055] In step S206, after receiving the converted command request, the pressure transmitter performs corresponding operations, such as reading pressure data and executing control instructions, and generates corresponding response messages. These response messages are typically in a data format supported by the instrument (such as HART, FF / PA, etc.). To be returned to the host computer via Ethernet, they need to be sent back to the APL communication module, which is responsible for repackaging the response messages into Ethernet packets for transmission via Ethernet.

[0056] Step S208: Return the encapsulated response message to the host computer through the switch.

[0057] In step S208, the switch correctly forwards these data packets to the host computer based on the device address and network configuration. Upon receiving the returned Ethernet packet, the host computer decompresses it, extracts the data and information contained in the response message, and processes it as needed, such as displaying it on a user interface, storing it in a database, or interacting with other systems.

[0058] Through the above steps S202 to S208, the goal of upgrading to APL technology without extensive hardware replacement, as well as enabling online switching of multiple protocols and firmware upgrades, is achieved. This results in comprehensive optimization of traditional instruments and a significant improvement in industrial data transmission efficiency. This solves the technical problems of slow data transmission, high operation and maintenance costs, and waste of resources caused by the fact that pressure transmitters using protocols such as HART and FF / PA in related technologies require a gateway device to access Ethernet and the entire instrument equipment must be replaced when upgrading to APL technology. Detailed explanations are given below.

[0059] Optionally, the APL communication module uses a stamp hole containing 12 pins as an external interface. The length, width, and height of the APL communication module including the external protective cover are 32 mm, 22 mm, and 5 mm, respectively.

[0060] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a hardware dimension diagram of an APL communication module according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 3 As shown, the APL communication module, including the external protective cover, measures 32mm long, 22mm wide, and 5mm high. The protective cover protects the module's electronic components from physical damage, electromagnetic interference, and environmental factors. This is particularly important for industrial field applications, as it improves module durability and reliability. This small size makes the APL communication module ideal for integration into space-constrained instrumentation. Without requiring additional structural changes or large housing designs, it can easily replace existing HART / FF communication modules, enabling the transition from traditional instruments to APL technology.

[0061] Figure 4 This is a pin package diagram of an APL communication module according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 As shown in the figure, the APL communication module uses a 12-pin stamp hole as the external interface. Among them, the 12 pins can be attached to other circuit boards (usually instrument motherboards) like stamps, and these pins are used to make electrical connections with the motherboard. The specific interface definition is shown in Table 1:

[0062] Table 1 Interface definition of APL communication module

[0063]

[0064] Optionally, the APL communication module includes at least an APL communication circuit, an Ethernet communication chip, an embedded microprocessor, a communication serial port, a DC-DC power supply, and a bus communication decoupling circuit.

[0065] In the embodiments of the present application, the APL communication module is a high-performance communication device designed specifically for industrial control systems. It integrates key components such as APL communication circuitry, an Ethernet communication chip, an embedded microprocessor (such as a CPU circuit), a communication serial port, a DC-DC power supply, a decoupling network for bus power extraction, and bus communication decoupling circuitry. This module not only supports high-speed Ethernet communication and multiple fieldbus protocols, but also features a small size, low cost, and easy integration and maintenance. It can directly replace the communication unit of traditional HART / FF instruments, enabling rapid conversion from traditional instruments to APL instruments. It also provides online upgrade and protocol switching capabilities, enhancing system flexibility and security.

[0066] Figure 5 This is a working principle diagram of an APL communication module according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 5 As shown, the DC-DC power supply module within the APL communication module converts the input voltage to 3.3V, providing a stable power supply for the module. The embedded microprocessor (CPU) is responsible for parameter processing, algorithm calculations, parameter protection and storage, and acquiring and transmitting sampled signal data from the sensor board. Field data is sent to the CPU via a serial port. After processing, the CPU transmits the data to the PHY (using Analog Devices' ADIN1110 chip) via SPI communication. The ADIN1110 then modulates the data into two-wire Ethernet for data upload. Furthermore, the ADIN1110 chip, as the core of the signal transceiver control circuitry, also parses the bus signal (APL input) and shares the parsed data with other master control chips via SPI communication for data download. This integrated design enables the APL communication module to rapidly convert traditional instruments to APL instruments, while also providing online upgrade and communication protocol switching capabilities, enhancing system flexibility and security.

[0067] Optionally, the Ethernet communication chip establishes a connection with the Ethernet through a two-wire Ethernet interface according to the 10BASE-T1L protocol.

[0068] In an embodiment of the present application, the Ethernet communication chip plays a core role in the APL communication module. It establishes a connection with the Ethernet through a two-wire dual-wire Ethernet interface based on the 10BASE-T1L protocol, and can provide complete data transmission services, such as realizing real-time transmission of measurement data, diagnostic information, configuration information, etc. Among them, 10BASE-T1L is a full-duplex, DC balanced, point-to-point communication solution that supports cable transmission of up to 1000 meters and a data rate of 10Mbps, which is suitable for long-distance communication in industrial environments. In the APL communication module, the Ethernet communication chip is responsible for modulating the data processed by the embedded microprocessor into a two-wire Ethernet signal, which is transmitted through the APL+ and APL- pins. It can also demodulate the received two-wire Ethernet signal and pass it to the CPU through the SPI interface. The design of this chip allows it to be used in explosion-proof system environments and meet strict maximum energy limit requirements, thereby playing a key role in application scenarios of industrial automation and process control.

[0069] Optionally, the model of the embedded microprocessor is LPC550x, and the embedded microprocessor further includes a communication protocol stack switching module, which is used to maintain the communication connection between the APL communication module and the host computer.

[0070] In this embodiment, the embedded LPC550x microprocessor plays a core role in the APL communication module. It is responsible for parameter processing, algorithm calculation, parameter protection and storage, and also for acquiring and transmitting sampled signal data from the sensor board. Because the module needs to integrate the Lwip Ethernet protocol stack, the LPC550x series was selected due to its large memory capacity to meet the protocol stack's operating requirements.

[0071] In addition, the LPC550x series microprocessors integrate a communication protocol stack switching module, which allows the module to switch between different communication protocols, such as Ethernet / IP, HART-IP, OPC UA, and Profinet, thereby maintaining a communication connection with the host computer. This design enables the APL communication module to flexibly adapt to different industrial communication environments, improving system compatibility and scalability. It also supports online upgrades and communication protocol switching, ensuring system stability and security.

[0072] Optionally, the maximum withstand voltage of the power chip of the DC-DC power supply is not less than 90V, and the maximum withstand voltage of the decoupling capacitor of the communication decoupling circuit of the bus is not less than 100V.

[0073] In the APL communication module, the DC-DC power supply chip is responsible for converting the input voltage of 9-15V to the regulated 3.3V required by the module. This power supply chip must be able to withstand high voltages, at least 90V, to cope with possible voltage surges. This ensures that when a surge signal is injected, the voltage at the power decoupling port is clamped within a safe range, thereby ensuring stable operation of the module.

[0074] At the same time, the decoupling capacitors in the bus's communication decoupling circuit are also crucial. They are directly connected to the bus, so voltage resistance needs to be considered. Under normal operating conditions, the bus's DC voltage range is between 9 and 15V, but the decoupling capacitors need to be able to withstand higher voltages, at least 50V, to cope with the situation where they are mistakenly plugged into the trunk bus interface, where the DC component of the trunk bus may exceed 50V. In addition, the decoupling capacitors also need to be able to withstand the maximum clamping voltage of nearly 100V when the surge voltage comes, ensuring stable operation under various operating conditions and providing clean and stable power to the module.

[0075] Optionally, the APL communication module is upgraded online through flash memory technology, including: determining the available space of the flash memory; receiving firmware data uploaded by the user on the Web interface, and storing the firmware data according to the minimum sector unit in the flash memory; upon receiving a restart command issued by the Web interface, copying the firmware data stored in the tail area of ​​the available space to the head area of ​​the available space.

[0076] Furthermore, a configuration switching request initiated by the user in the Web interface is received, wherein the configuration switching request includes a target communication protocol specified by the user; the configuration switching request is formatted and the configuration switching information is obtained; the configuration switching information is verified, and if the configuration switching information is verified to pass, switching to the target communication protocol is allowed; if the configuration switching information is not verified to pass, switching to the target communication protocol is not allowed.

[0077] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of a web page interface of an APL communication module according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 6 As shown in the figure, the OTA update interface is concise and clear, providing the firmware update version information (V1.0@Jun 28 2024), which helps users confirm the current module firmware version and reflects the advanced nature and user-friendliness of the APL communication module.

[0078] Specifically, users can access the APL communication module web page through the IP address. By directly entering the IPv4 or IPv6 address in the browser, they can access the module web interface. The APL communication module web interface contains information such as firmware version and compilation date.

[0079] The online upgrade process is as follows: the user clicks "Select File" to select the latest firmware, clicks "Upload" to upload the latest firmware data, and after the data upload is complete, clicks "Reboot" to restart the instrument online to update the firmware.

[0080] The APL communication module's online upgrade function is implemented through flash read and write. Specifically, at least half of the flash storage space, the aforementioned available space, is reserved. During the upload phase, the APL communication module copies the latest firmware data transmitted by the web according to the smallest flash unit sector. After the copy is complete, it waits for the web to send a restart command. Upon receiving the restart update command, the latest firmware data stored is copied from the second half (tail area) of the flash to the first half (head area) of the flash. The copy function runs in RAM, ensuring a smooth flash copy process. After the overwrite is complete, the software restarts.

[0081] In addition, the Web interface is also designed with a communication protocol configuration switching interface. The APL communication module configures the communication protocol (the target communication protocol specified by the user in the configuration switching request) through the Web configuration command, and determines whether the configuration download is correct by parsing the configuration request command data frame format. If the configuration is correct, the communication protocol is switched normally and a positive response is returned, otherwise a negative response is returned.

[0082] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a flow chart of another data transmission method according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 7 The figure shows the network connection and data transmission process of the APL communication module in the industrial control system. The industrial control network is responsible for managing and monitoring the entire industrial process. It connects to the APL switch / coupler via standard Ethernet to achieve centralized data management and control. The APL switch / APL coupler serves as a bridge between the industrial control network and APL instruments. It connects to the industrial control network via standard Ethernet and to the APL instrument via the APL Spur port. APL instruments are devices installed in industrial sites for measuring and monitoring various parameters, such as pressure and temperature. The APL instrument integrates an APL communication module, which includes an embedded microprocessor, an Ethernet communication chip, a DC-DC power supply, and bus communication decoupling circuits. This module is responsible for converting measurement data into digital signals and communicating with the Ethernet communication chip via SPI to achieve data upload and download.

[0083] Specifically, the host computer sends a real-time data request command packet to the on-site APL switch or APL coupler. The on-site APL switch determines which APL instrument the packet is sent to by the MAC address. The instrument's embedded microprocessor calculates and processes the measurement data stored in it, and encapsulates the response data response frame according to the request command and sends it to the APL communication module. After the APL communication module obtains the instrument response data through the serial port, it encapsulates it into an Ethernet UDP response packet through the protocol stack and sends the real-time data to the APL field switch via the two-wire Ethernet port. The APL field switch forwards the packet to the host computer through the two-wire Ethernet for interaction, thus completing a data collection.

[0084] In an embodiment of the present application, an intelligent communication module based on APL technology is proposed. The APL communication module adopts a stamp card design, which has the characteristics of small size and low cost. It can directly replace the communication unit of the traditional HART / FF instrument without replacing the entire instrument, thereby reducing the upgrade cost and reducing waste. At the same time, the APL communication module supports a variety of field Ethernet communication protocols, such as Ethernet / IP, HART-IP, OPC UA, Profinet, etc., and realizes flexible switching of the communication protocol stack through the embedded microprocessor LPC550x series, thereby enhancing the compatibility and scalability of the system. In addition, the APL communication module has a built-in DC-DC power supply chip and a high-voltage decoupling capacitor to ensure stable operation in an industrial environment. Finally, the OTA update function implemented by the APL communication module through the Web interface allows remote online upgrades and communication protocol switching, which greatly improves the maintenance efficiency of field instruments and the flexibility of the system.

[0085] According to an embodiment of the present application, a data transmission device is provided. It should be noted that the data transmission device of the embodiment of the present application can be used to execute the data transmission method provided in the embodiment of the present application. The data transmission device provided in the embodiment of the present application is introduced below.

[0086] Figure 8 This is a structural diagram of a data transmission device provided according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 8 As shown, the device includes:

[0087] The acquisition module 80 is used to obtain the command request sent by the host computer, wherein the command request is in Ethernet packet format;

[0088] A processing module 82 is configured to send the command request to the advanced physical machine (APL) communication module via the switch for format conversion, and to send the format-converted command request to the pressure transmitter instrument for processing, thereby generating a response message corresponding to the command request. Each pressure transmitter instrument has a built-in APL communication module, which is configured to convert the command request into a data format that the pressure transmitter instrument can process.

[0089] The encapsulation module 84 is used to send the response message to the APL communication module and encapsulate the response message into an Ethernet packet format through the APL communication module;

[0090] The return module 86 is used to return the encapsulated response message to the host computer through the switch.

[0091] Through the acquisition module 80, processing module 82, encapsulation module 84 and return module 86 in the above-mentioned data transmission device, the purpose of upgrading to APL technology without a large number of hardware replacements and realizing online switching of multiple protocols and firmware upgrades is achieved, thereby achieving the technical effect of comprehensive optimization of traditional instruments and significant improvement of industrial data transmission efficiency, and further solving the technical problems of slow data transmission, high operation and maintenance costs and waste of resources due to the fact that pressure transmitter instruments using HART, FF / PA and other protocols in related technologies need to be connected to Ethernet through gateway devices, and the entire instrument equipment needs to be replaced when upgrading to APL technology.

[0092] The data transmission device provided in the embodiment of the present application also includes an upgrade module 88, which is used to determine the available space of the flash memory; receive the firmware data uploaded by the user on the Web interface, and store the firmware data according to the minimum sector unit in the flash memory; when a restart command issued by the Web interface is received, the firmware data stored in the tail area of ​​the available space is copied to the head area of ​​the available space.

[0093] In the data transmission device provided in the embodiment of the present application, the upgrade module is also used to receive a configuration switching request initiated by the user in the Web interface, wherein the configuration switching request includes a target communication protocol specified by the user; format the configuration switching request to obtain configuration switching information; verify the configuration switching information, and if the configuration switching information is verified to be successful, allow switching to the target communication protocol; if the configuration switching information is not verified to be successful, do not allow switching to the target communication protocol.

[0094] An embodiment of the present application further provides an electronic device, comprising: a memory and a processor, wherein the memory is used to store program instructions; the processor is connected to the memory and is used to execute and implement the above-mentioned data transmission method.

[0095] It should be noted that the above electronic equipment is used to perform Figure 2 The data transmission method shown, therefore the relevant explanations in the above data transmission method are also applicable to the electronic device and will not be repeated here.

[0096] An embodiment of the present application further provides a non-volatile storage medium, which includes a stored computer program, wherein the device where the non-volatile storage medium is located executes the above-mentioned data transmission method by running the computer program.

[0097] It should be noted that the above non-volatile storage medium is used to execute Figure 2 The data transmission method shown in the figure, therefore the relevant explanations in the above data transmission method are also applicable to the non-volatile storage medium and will not be repeated here.

[0098] An embodiment of the present application further provides a computer program product, including computer instructions, which implement the above-mentioned data transmission method when executed by a processor.

[0099] It should be noted that the above-mentioned computer program product is used to execute Figure 2 The data transmission method shown, therefore the relevant explanations in the above data transmission method are also applicable to the computer program product and will not be repeated here.

[0100] The serial numbers of the above-mentioned embodiments of the present application are for description only and do not represent the advantages or disadvantages of the embodiments.

[0101] In the above embodiments of the present application, the description of each embodiment has its own focus. For parts that are not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant description of other embodiments.

[0102] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed technical content can be implemented in other ways. Among them, the device embodiments described above are only exemplary. For example, the division of the units can be a logical function division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods, such as multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. Another point is that the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed can be through some interfaces, indirect coupling or communication connection of units or modules, which can be electrical or other forms.

[0103] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple units. Some or all of the units may be selected according to actual needs to achieve the purpose of the present embodiment.

[0104] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of the present application may be integrated into a single processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into a single unit. The aforementioned integrated units may be implemented in the form of hardware or software functional units.

[0105] If the integrated unit is implemented in the form of a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present application is essentially or the part that contributes to the prior art or all or part of the technical solution can be embodied in the form of a software product, and the computer software product is stored in a storage medium, including a number of instructions for enabling a computer device (which can be a personal computer, a server or a network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the method described in each embodiment of the present application. The aforementioned storage medium includes: various media that can store program codes, such as a USB flash drive, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a mobile hard disk, a magnetic disk or an optical disk.

[0106] The above is only a preferred embodiment of the present application. It should be pointed out that for ordinary technicians in this technical field, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principles of the present application. These improvements and modifications should also be regarded as the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. A data transmission method, characterized in that: include: Obtaining a command request issued by a host computer, wherein the command request is in an Ethernet packet format; The command request is sent to the advanced physical machine APL communication module through the switch for format conversion, and the command request after format conversion is sent to the pressure transmitter instrument for processing, and a response message corresponding to the command request is generated, wherein each pressure transmitter instrument has an APL communication module built in, and the APL communication module is used to convert the command request into a data format that can be processed by the pressure transmitter instrument; Sending the response message to the APL communication module, and encapsulating the response message into an Ethernet packet format through the APL communication module; The encapsulated response message is returned to the host computer through the switch.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The APL communication module adopts a stamp hole containing 12 pins as an external interface, and the length, width and height of the APL communication module including the external protective cover are 32mm, 22mm and 5mm respectively.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The APL communication module at least includes an APL communication circuit, an Ethernet communication chip, an embedded microprocessor, a communication serial port, a DC-DC power supply and a bus communication decoupling circuit.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that The Ethernet communication chip establishes a connection with the Ethernet through a two-wire two-wire Ethernet interface according to the 10BASE-T1L protocol.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that: The model of the embedded microprocessor is LPC550x. The embedded microprocessor also includes a communication protocol stack switching module, and the communication protocol stack switching module is used to maintain the communication connection between the APL communication module and the host computer.

6. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that The maximum withstand voltage of the power chip of the DC-DC power supply is not less than 90V, and the maximum withstand voltage of the decoupling capacitor of the communication decoupling circuit of the bus is not less than 100V.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The APL communication module is upgraded online through flash memory technology, including: Determine the available space in the flash memory; Receiving firmware data uploaded by a user on a Web interface, and storing the firmware data according to the minimum sector unit in the flash memory; When a restart instruction issued by the Web interface is received, the firmware data stored in the tail area of ​​the available space is copied to the head area of ​​the available space.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that The method further comprises: Receiving a configuration switching request initiated by the user on the Web interface, wherein the configuration switching request includes a target communication protocol specified by the user; Analyzing the format of the configuration switching request to obtain configuration switching information; The configuration switching information is verified. If the configuration switching information passes the verification, switching to the target communication protocol is allowed. If the configuration switching information fails the verification, switching to the target communication protocol is not allowed.

9. A data transmission device, characterized in that: include: An acquisition module, used for acquiring a command request issued by a host computer, wherein the command request is in an Ethernet packet format; A processing module, used for sending the command request to the advanced physical machine APL communication module through the switch for format conversion, and sending the command request after format conversion to the pressure transmitter instrument for processing, and generating a response message corresponding to the command request, wherein each pressure transmitter instrument has an APL communication module built in, and the APL communication module is used for converting the command request into a data format that can be processed by the pressure transmitter instrument; An encapsulation module, used for sending the response message to the APL communication module, and encapsulating the response message into an Ethernet packet format through the APL communication module; The return module is used to return the encapsulated response message to the host computer through the switch.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that: include: A memory and a processor, wherein the memory is used to store program instructions; The processor is connected to the memory and is used to execute the data transmission method described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

11. A non-volatile storage medium, characterized in that: The non-volatile storage medium includes a stored computer program, wherein the device where the non-volatile storage medium is located executes the data transmission method according to any one of claims 1 to 8 by running the computer program.

12. A computer program product comprising computer instructions, characterized in that: When the computer instructions are executed by a processor, the data transmission method according to any one of claims 1 to 8 is implemented.

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