Analog measured value acquisition module

Abstract

An analog measured value acquisition module is provided. The analog measured value acquisition module comprises: two ports, each of which can connect a measuring transducer, optionally a temperature sensor, to the analog measured value acquisition module; and a memory, optionally a non-volatile memory. A dedicated storage area is provided for each of the two ports in the memory, and the storage area is fixedly assigned to the corresponding port.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an analog measurement value acquisition module and a data processing system having the analog measurement value acquisition module, a method for operating the analog measurement value acquisition module, a computer program for the analog measurement value acquisition module, a computer-readable medium having the computer program, a method for writing information processing specifications into a memory of the analog measurement value acquisition module, a method for determining a file having a predefined internal structure for processing measurement variables that can be received from a measuring transducer at the analog measurement value acquisition module, a data processing device having means for executing the method for operating the analog measurement value acquisition module, a computer program for operating the analog measurement value acquisition module, a computer-readable medium having the computer program, a file for use in the analog measurement value acquisition module and / or a computer-readable medium having the file. Background Art

[0002] The discussion of the prior art in this specification should in no way be considered as an admission that the prior art is widely known or belongs to common expertise in the field.

[0003] US Pat. No. 4,403,296 A describes an electronic measuring device that uses a plurality of different measuring transformers to provide signals that have predetermined, typically nonlinear, relationships with a plurality of input variables sensed by the measuring transformers. The measuring device includes a microcomputer that stores linearization information regarding the predetermined nonlinear relationships between the signals provided by the measuring transformers and the variables sensed by the measuring transformers. The microcomputer linearizes each of the signals provided by the measuring sensors to obtain a high-precision signal indicative of the sensed variables. Depending on the desired final determination result, the linearized signals representing the input variables are used in a polynomial equation calculation performed by the computer to obtain the desired output determination result. The polynomial equation contains a plurality of constants, with different constant values ​​stored in a memory for different segments of the curve defined by the polynomial equation. The constant values ​​also represent the stored linearization information, and various values ​​can be used in the calculation to achieve optimal accuracy when modeling the mathematical curve of the polynomial equation with the actual curve of the variable to be determined.

[0004] EP 0 692 160 B1 relates to an integrating analog-to-digital converter for converting an analog signal into a digital representation, comprising: a circuit responsive to the analog signal to provide a first output signal, the first output signal varying between at least a first level and a second level and having a frequency characteristic curve as a function of the integral of the analog signal; at least one first counter responsive to the first output signal to count signal level variations and provide a first counter output signal representative of the count level; a first temperature measuring device providing a circuit temperature output signal representative of the temperature of a selected ambient temperature region near the circuit; and a memory for storing first information describing the temperature characteristic curve of the circuit, such that the first counter can be calibrated based on the circuit temperature output signal and said information.

[0005] US2005 / 0033540 A1 relates to a sensor device comprising a mutual inductor, a storage element for storing a plurality of mutual inductor signatures, and a processor for identifying the mutual inductor using the mutual inductor signatures, and for processing environmental features using the identified mutual inductor signatures and an adaptive algorithm and outputting the processed environmental features.

[0006] US2019 / 095381 A1 relates to an electronic device comprising a communication device and a processor. The processor receives sensor type information from at least one sensor or an electronic measuring instrument connected to the at least one sensor via the communication device, transmits the received sensor type information to a database storing combinations of sensor types and measurement modes defining measurement content, determines a measurement mode from the database based on the transmitted sensor type information, and sets the determined measurement mode based on the at least one sensor or the at least one sensor connected to the electronic measuring instrument. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Against the backdrop of this prior art, the object of the present disclosure is to provide a method and / or a device, both of which are suitable for enriching the prior art.

[0008] This object is achieved by the features of the independent claims. The contents of the coordinated and dependent claims represent optional developments of the present disclosure.

[0009] Accordingly, the object is achieved by an analog measurement value acquisition module, wherein the analog measurement value acquisition module comprises: (at least) two ports, each of which is capable of connecting (one) measurement transducer (optionally a temperature sensor and / or a pressure sensor) to the analog measurement value acquisition module; and a memory, optionally a non-volatile memory.

[0010] In this context, an analog measured value acquisition module can be understood as a data processing device that is designed to receive information from measuring transducers or sensors via ports provided for this purpose, process this information, and output this information (optionally via a gateway) to a (process) control system.

[0011] In the memory, a respective memory area is provided for each of the two ports, which memory area is permanently assigned to the respective port.

[0012] In other words, a first memory area can be set up or reserved for one of the two ports, while a second memory area, different from the first memory area, can be set up for the other of the two ports. This allocation can be stored, for example, in the software (optionally firmware) of the analog measured value acquisition module; that is, the software "knows" which memory area is assigned to which port. The number of ports is not limited to two; any number of ports, and therefore any number of memory areas, is conceivable.

[0013] A port can be understood as an (input) channel. Via this port, an analog measurement value acquisition module can receive analog signals and / or digital signals. Each port can have multiple connection terminals (for example, four).

[0014] The information from the measuring transducers can be received, for example, as analog signals at an analog measured value acquisition module and digitized by the analog measured value acquisition module, and these digitized signals can then be processed.

[0015] In this context, processing can be understood as using the digitized signal as input data for an algorithm stored in the analog measured value acquisition module. This algorithm can be, for example, the so-called firmware of the analog measured value acquisition module.

[0016] If the signal corresponds to a measured variable of a measuring transducer, ie, for example, temperature and / or pressure, the input data can be processed in such a way that they are converted into measured values, ie, temperature and / or pressure, according to stored specifications.

[0017] Conventionally, specifications or calculation rules or formulas for various predefined (mostly standardized) measuring transducers for performing conversions or processing are stored in analog measured value acquisition modules. This means that only predetermined types of measuring transducers can be operated with conventional analog measured value acquisition modules.

[0018] Furthermore, the specifications for various predefined measuring transducers for performing conversions or processing are conventionally permanently stored in the firmware of the analog measured value acquisition module. This means that if a measuring transducer is to be operated with the analog measured value acquisition module and the specifications for this measuring transducer are not stored in the firmware, the firmware must be adapted. This often requires a complete revalidation or recheck of the adapted firmware.

[0019] In the analog measurement value acquisition module according to the present disclosure, specifications are no longer stored in the firmware itself, but rather in the module's memory (optionally flash memory). This allows specifications to be updated when necessary without modifying the firmware. Compared to conventional firmware, this firmware can be extended with the ability to load custom sensor data processing specifications on-site. It is conceivable that a gateway connected to the module would use module parameters to determine which data is transmitted from the analog measurement value acquisition module via the corresponding module and, if necessary, to a control center.

[0020] In other words, if a transducer is to be operated with an analog measured value acquisition module and its specifications are not stored in the analog measured value acquisition module, the specifications can be written to the memory and then used by the unchanged firmware. This makes it possible to adapt the analog measured value acquisition module to new sensor types introduced in the field.

[0021] It is also advantageous to store the specifications in a memory area that is permanently assigned to the respective port. Thus, the firmware can determine which specification should be used to process received sensor data or information received from a measuring transducer without having to determine the sensor type.

[0022] Possible improvements to the above-mentioned analog measured value acquisition module are described in detail below.

[0023] The analog measured value acquisition module can be designed to determine via which of the two ports information, optionally a measured variable, is received from a measuring transducer connectable to the respective port and to access the memory area permanently assigned to this port accordingly.

[0024] Instructions for processing the received information can be stored in the accessed memory area, and the analog measured value acquisition module can be designed to access these instructions.

[0025] Access may be understood to mean, for example, calling or loading specifications by software (optionally firmware) executed by the analog measured value acquisition module.

[0026] The analog measurement value acquisition module may be designed to process the received information using the accessed specification for processing the received information, thereby generating output information.

[0027] The specification can be based on a transducer characteristic curve or sensor characteristic curve, or can represent this characteristic curve in digital form. In other words, the specification can express the sensor characteristic curve using a formula expression. A sensor characteristic curve can be understood as the relationship between a measured variable in the form of a so-called characteristic curve and the sensor's measured value. This can mean that the sensor uses its characteristic curve to describe how to calculate a voltage or resistance value from the sensor output (expressed in the unit of the actual physical measured variable, such as ° C) within a range defined by a minimum and maximum sensor output, and vice versa.

[0028] It is conceivable that the specification does not include the functions required to describe the sensor characteristic curve itself, but rather includes only or exclusively constants and a reference identifier (Verweis) to a function stored in the software, especially the firmware, of the analog measured value acquisition module. This means that the software of the analog measured value acquisition module may store multiple functions, wherein the firmware selects one of the functions based on the reference identifier stored in the specification and substitutes the constants included in the specification into the selected function. It is also conceivable that only a single constant (e.g., the slope of a linear function) is provided. This means that the specification may include multiple constants, but depending on the function stored in the analog measured value acquisition module, a single constant may also be sufficient.

[0029] It is conceivable that the characteristic curve is divided into multiple sub-regions with different functions. This means that for each of these sub-regions, a function describing the characteristic curve of the sensor in the corresponding sub-region can be called in the analog measurement value acquisition module. It is also conceivable that the specification does not include the functions required to describe the characteristic curve of the sensor in the corresponding sub-region, but rather only or exclusively includes, for each of these sub-regions, corresponding constants and a reference identifier for one of the functions stored in the software, particularly the firmware, of the analog measurement value acquisition module. This means that the software of the analog measurement value acquisition module can store multiple functions, with the firmware selecting one of the functions for the corresponding sub-region based on the reference identifier stored in the specification and substituting the constants for the corresponding sub-region contained in the specification into the selected function.

[0030] If the measured variable is not an electrical measured variable (such as temperature, pressure, etc.), a sensor is first required to generate a primary electrical signal (such as voltage) related to the measured variable. This primary electrical signal can be output by the sensor to the analog measurement value acquisition module, where it is received at the port connected to the sensor. The primary signal may sometimes be relatively small, so it can be partially amplified before digitization. Digitization converts the current analog primary electrical signal into a corresponding digital signal, which can be further digitally processed by the algorithm of the analog measurement value acquisition module, especially its firmware. Digital signal processing is also generally used to correct analog defects, especially to correct non-ideal characteristic curves. Finally, the measured value can be output, such as temperature in ° C and / or pressure in Pa.

[0031] The analog measured value acquisition module can have an interface and be designed to output the generated output information via the interface to an external data processing device (optionally a gateway) that can be connected to the interface.

[0032] The analog measured value acquisition module may have a microprocessor. The analog measured value acquisition module may be a processor-controlled intelligent unit that can communicate with other modules (optionally analog measured value acquisition modules) and / or a control system, for example, via interfaces and gateways.

[0033] The interface may be an input / output (I / O) interface, ie an interface through which information can be received and sent.

[0034] A specification may have or consist of a file, optionally a binary file, in a file format with a predefined (internal) structure.

[0035] In electronic data processing, the content of each file is initially a one-dimensional sequence of bytes that is interpreted in blocks of bytes. The file format defines the syntax (allowed values, formal structure / "grammar") and semantics (meaning and interpretation) of the data within the file. It therefore represents a bidirectional mapping of information into a one-dimensional binary memory. By using a file format or (computer-implemented) file structure with a predefined structure in the present case, the user (here, for example, software executed by an analog measurement value acquisition module) can interpret the file. A predefined structure can be understood as meaning that the file consists of blocks of bytes of a predetermined size (i.e., with a predetermined number of bytes), which are arranged in a predefined order and to which each block of bytes is assigned a predetermined type of information. Specifications or characteristic curves can be contained in one or more of these blocks of bytes. The structure of the blocks of bytes can also be specified here.

[0036] The analog measurement value acquisition module may be configured to process files in a file format having a predefined structure.

[0037] In other words, the analog measurement value acquisition module, and optionally the software (e.g., firmware) executed by the analog measurement value acquisition module, can "know" the information stored at various locations in the file. This offers a number of advantages, one of which is that the analog measurement value acquisition module can process sensor data from any sensor, as long as the characteristic curve of this sensor is stored in the specified file format.

[0038] The above description can be summarized in another way and in conjunction with the specific design solution described below. The following description is merely exemplary and does not limit the content of the present disclosure: The sensor description, including the sensor characteristic curve, can be stored or stored in the back portion of the flash memory of the analog measurement value acquisition module (which is implemented as a temperature input module) reserved for non-volatile variables. The polynomial describing the sensor characteristic curve, which is previously unknown to the analog measurement value acquisition module, can be stored in the same structure as the stored characteristic curve. In addition to the characteristic curve, the sensor description can also include a sensor identification number, a string for naming the sensor (optionally parameterized), and / or a CRC value for verifying the validity of the sensor description. If the temperature sensor has four ports, four identical flash memory areas can be reserved for the sensor description, where each flash memory area is considered to be for a channel or port. This allows a separate characteristic curve to be set for each channel, and therefore for each sensor.

[0039] In addition, the present disclosure also relates to a data processing system, wherein the data processing system includes a control system, a gateway connected to the control system, and the above-mentioned module, wherein the module is connected to the control system via the gateway.

[0040] In this context, a gateway is understood to be a component consisting of hardware and software that establishes a connection, in particular a bidirectional connection, between an analog measured value acquisition module and a (process) control system. The gateway determines the compatibility of communication standards. For example, the gateway can communicate with the control system via Ethernet and with the analog measured value acquisition module via a CAN interface using the CANopen protocol. The data received from the respective devices is converted or translated into the corresponding other communication standard.

[0041] What has been described above with respect to the analog measured value acquisition module also applies analogously to the data processing system, and vice versa.

[0042] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a method for operating an analog measurement value acquisition module, wherein the analog measurement value acquisition module comprises: two ports, each of which is capable of connecting a measurement transducer (optionally a temperature sensor) to the analog measurement value acquisition module; and a memory, optionally a non-volatile memory.

[0043] The method comprises: receiving information from one of the measuring transducers via one of the two ports; determining via which of the two ports the information was received; and accessing a memory area in the memory which is fixedly assigned to the port which received the information.

[0044] The method may be a computer-implemented method, ie one, several or all steps of the method may be at least partially performed by a computer or a data processing device.

[0045] Possible improvements to the above method are described in detail below.

[0046] A specification for processing the received information may be stored in the accessed memory area, and the method may include accessing the specification.

[0047] The method may include processing the received information using the accessed specification for processing the received information to generate output information.

[0048] The method may include: outputting the generated output information to an external data processing device connected to the interface via the interface of the analog measurement value acquisition module.

[0049] The specification may have or consist of a (digital) file in a file format having a predefined internal structure.

[0050] The specification may be called by a computer program executed by the analog measurement value acquisition module, the computer program being configured to process a file in a file format having a predefined internal structure.

[0051] The above descriptions regarding the analog measurement value acquisition module and the data processing system are also similarly applicable to the operating method of the analog measurement value acquisition module, and vice versa.

[0052] Furthermore, the invention relates to a computer program comprising commands which, when executed by the analog measurement value acquisition module, cause the analog measurement value acquisition module to perform a method comprising: determining via which of the at least two ports the information is received; and accessing a memory area fixedly assigned to the port via which the information is received.

[0053] The program code of the computer program can be any code, in particular a code suitable for controlling an analog measured value acquisition module (for example, a hardware-related programming language, such as the C programming language).

[0054] A specification for processing the received information may be stored in the accessed memory area, and the method may include accessing the specification.

[0055] The method may include processing the received information using the accessed specification for processing the received information to generate output information.

[0056] The method may include: outputting the generated output information to an external data processing device connected to the interface via the interface of the analog measurement value acquisition module.

[0057] A specification may have or consist of a file in a file format having a predefined internal structure.

[0058] The computer program may be configured to process files in a file format having a predefined internal structure.

[0059] The computer program can be the firmware of the analog measurement value acquisition module. Firmware can be understood as software that is (permanently) embedded in an electronic device (such as the analog measurement value acquisition module in this case) and performs basic functions therein. The firmware can be located between the hardware of the analog measurement value acquisition module (i.e., the physical part of the analog measurement value acquisition module) and any existing application software (the program of the analog measurement value acquisition module that can be replaced when necessary). The firmware can be stored in the memory of the analog measurement value acquisition module. The memory can be flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, or ROM.

[0060] The contents described above with respect to the analog measured value acquisition module, the operating method of the analog measured value acquisition module, and the data processing system are also analogously applicable to the computer program, and vice versa.

[0061] The present disclosure also relates to a computer-readable medium, in particular a computer-readable storage medium, which contains the above-mentioned computer program.

[0062] The computer readable medium may be any digital data storage device, such as a USB drive, a hard disk, a flash memory, a CD-ROM, an SD card, or an SSD card.

[0063] The computer program does not necessarily have to be stored on such a computer-readable storage medium in order to be used by the analog measured value acquisition module, but can also be obtained via the Internet or other external channels.

[0064] The contents described above with respect to the analog measurement value acquisition module, the operating method of the analog measurement value acquisition module, the data processing system, and the computer program also apply analogously to the computer-readable medium, and vice versa.

[0065] The present disclosure also relates to a method for writing information processing specifications into a memory of the above-mentioned analog measurement value acquisition module.

[0066] The method may also be a computer-implemented method.

[0067] The method comprises: determining to which port of at least two ports of an analog measurement value acquisition module a specification is to be assigned; and writing the specification into a storage area in a memory of the analog measurement value acquisition module that is fixedly assigned to the port.

[0068] For example, the port can be determined by the gateway's web server. When a specification is sent from the gateway to the analog measured value acquisition module, information about the channel or port to which the specification is assigned is also transmitted. If the specification is sent in multiple data packets, one or more, or optionally all, of these data packets can contain this information. When using SDOs (see below for details), this can mean setting a so-called subindex (1 byte) before each SDO transmission. This subindex specifies the channel or port to which the data packet is directed or for which port it is intended.

[0069] Access to memory is referred to as a memory access. The method of memory access is called an access type. The aforementioned access to memory for the purpose of accessing a specification or characteristic curve (n data, ndata) is a read access. Conversely, a write specification can also be referred to as a write access.

[0070] The method may include: sending a specification from an external data processing device (optionally a gateway) to an interface of the analog measurement acquisition module; and receiving the specification at the interface of the analog measurement acquisition module. To this end, the specification may be sent to the interface in a plurality of data packets, optionally of the same size.

[0071] The advantage of splitting the message into several data packets is that the message bus from the gateway to the analog measured value acquisition module is not overloaded.

[0072] It is conceivable that the specification is written to the storage area of ​​the memory only after the complete specification has been received at the interface.

[0073] A specification may have or consist of a file in a file format having a predefined internal structure.

[0074] In other words, the individual data packets can be combined in the analog measured value acquisition module to form a file having the aforementioned file format, and this file can then be written to a location provided for this purpose in the memory.

[0075] The above description regarding the analog measured value acquisition module, the operating method of the analog measured value acquisition module, the data processing system, the computer program, and the computer-readable medium also applies analogously to the method for writing a specification, and vice versa.

[0076] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a method for determining a file having a predefined internal structure for processing a measured variable that can be received from a measuring transducer at an analog measured value acquisition module.

[0077] The method comprises determining information characterizing a relationship between a measurement variable and a measurement value of a measuring transducer, and storing the determined information at a predefined location in a file.

[0078] In other words, a file containing specifications or characteristic curves (also referred to above as a sensor description) can be generated using an external tool and then provided as a binary file. For example, in the aforementioned method for writing specifications into the memory of an analog measured value acquisition module, this binary file can then be transferred to the analog measured value acquisition module via the CAN bus using SDOs (SDO stands for Service Data Objects for parameterizing object directory entries).

[0079] Determining the information characterizing the relationship between the measurement variable and the measurement value of the measurement transducer may include receiving user input information about the relationship between the measurement variable and the measurement value of the measurement transducer.

[0080] Determining the information characterizing the relationship between the measured variable and the measured value of the measuring transducer can include: displaying an input form, optionally on a display of the control system, personal computer, tablet computer and / or smartphone, in which user input information about the relationship between the measured variable and the measured value of the measuring transducer can be entered at a predefined location.

[0081] An input form may be understood as a graphical user interface having fields in which a user can enter or select values.

[0082] The technical task of a graphical user interface (GUI) or user interface is to enable users to create (application) software for generating files with a predefined internal structure for processing measured variables on a computer using graphical symbols and controls (also known as application widgets). This task is achieved by presenting information in the form of an input form, allowing users to identify information representing the relationship between the measured variable and the measured value of the measuring transducer in a guided (i.e., under instruction) manner from the data table of any measuring transformer, and to enter this information into the GUI, thereby converting this information into the file format required by the analog measurement value acquisition module. The GUI enables users of the analog measurement value acquisition module (e.g., process engineers) to benefit from the technical effects of the universally applicable analog measurement value acquisition module, thereby achieving the technical purpose of configuring the analog measurement value acquisition module from the software side.

[0083] As described above, the specifications can include constants or coefficients and reference identifiers to functions stored in the software, particularly the firmware, of the analog measured value acquisition module. It is conceivable that these coefficients can be queried as numerical values ​​via a user interface, and optionally also inquired about the function to which they relate. This method can then be used to automatically convert the numerical values ​​into the required file format and store them in a location within the file provided for this purpose. Based on the information about the function on which the characteristic curve is based, a corresponding pointer or corresponding information about the function stored in the firmware of the analog measured value acquisition module to be called can be automatically stored in the required file format at a location within the file provided for this purpose.

[0084] The information can be displayed in this way: the user is shown via an input form which information from the standard or data sheet of the measuring transducer is required and where to enter this information in the input form. Specifically, this can mean that a file containing the x-order coefficients of the (optionally nonlinear) (sensor) characteristic curve and a "description string" should be stored in the analog measured value acquisition module.

[0085] Depending on the number and type of coefficients (e.g. for a spline function) and the desired function, the microprocessor of the analog measurement value acquisition module can then calculate a measurement value (e.g. a temperature value in ° C.) based on the measured analog value (e.g. using numerical methods).

[0086] It is also conceivable that the user only enters the base point of the characteristic curve into the input form, and the function (for example a spline function) is then automatically determined from this. In this way, the file or byte structure can also be generated completely automatically.

[0087] Thus, the method allows the user to fully automatically generate a file without having to understand the structure of the data format, which can then be processed by the analog measurement value acquisition module. The user interface thus achieves a technical effect because it reliably supports the user in performing a technical task, in particular, creating a (digital) file in the necessary or required file format for processing the measured variables of the measuring transducer, through continuous and / or guided human-computer interaction. This technical effect is reliably achieved because the user support in performing the technical task is objective, reliable, and causally related to the display of the input form or user interface, and is independent of the user's subjective interests or preferences.

[0088] An input form can be part of a web application. A web application (also called an online application, web application, or simply Web-App) is an application based on the client-server model. Unlike classic desktop applications, web applications are not installed locally on the user's computer. Data processing can be performed at least partially on a remote web server. The results of the data processing are transmitted to the user's local client computer (thin client). Web applications are usually used via a web browser. Unlike desktop applications, web applications do not require a special operating system to be installed on the user's computer. The advantage of web applications in industrial environments is, in particular, that users do not need to install any software on their computers for this purpose, thus avoiding any security risks.

[0089] What has been described above with respect to the analog measured value acquisition module, the method for operating the analog measured value acquisition module, the data processing system, the computer program, the computer-readable medium, and the method for writing specifications also applies analogously to the method for determining a file, and vice versa.

[0090] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a data processing device having: a device for executing a method for determining a file and / or a method for writing specifications; a computer program containing commands that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to execute the method for determining a file and / or the method for writing specifications; and / or a computer-readable medium containing commands that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to execute the method for determining a file and / or the method for writing specifications. The above description of the analog measurement value acquisition module, the method for operating the analog measurement value acquisition module, the data processing system, the computer program, the computer-readable medium, the method for writing specifications, and the method for determining a file also applies similarly here.

[0091] The present disclosure also relates to a file for use in an analog measurement value acquisition module, wherein the file has a predefined structure and contains, at predefined locations in the file, information for processing a measurement variable that can be received by the analog measurement value acquisition module from a measuring transducer. The file can be determined using the aforementioned method for determining a file. The above description of the analog measurement value acquisition module, the method for operating the analog measurement value acquisition module, the data processing system, the computer program, the computer-readable medium, the method for writing a specification, and the method for determining a file also applies analogously to the file for use in the analog measurement value acquisition module, and vice versa.

[0092] Therefore, the file has a data structure or data format, wherein its intended technical purpose is to determine a measured value in the analog measured value acquisition module based on a measured variable, thereby generating a technical effect from this intended technical purpose. Therefore, the data structure defining the file relates to functional data, i.e., the structure or format of the file has a technical function in the technical system, in this case, controlling the operation of the data processing device. As a file containing functional data, the file essentially reflects the corresponding technical characteristics of the analog measured value acquisition module.

[0093] The present disclosure also relates to a computer-readable medium having the aforementioned file for use in an analog measurement value acquisition module. The above descriptions regarding the analog measurement value acquisition module, the method for operating the analog measurement value acquisition module, the data processing system, the computer program, the computer-readable medium, the method for writing specifications, the method for determining a file, and the file for use in the analog measurement value acquisition module also apply similarly here.

[0094] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. If a term has multiple definitions, the definition in this specification shall prevail unless otherwise stated.

[0095] Whenever expressions such as "for example," "such as," "including," etc. are used, they should be interpreted as being followed by "and not limited to," unless explicitly stated otherwise. Similarly, "example," "exemplary," etc. should be understood as non-limiting or non-exhaustive lists. The same applies to digital information, i.e., for example, "including two ports" should be understood as "including at least two ports."

[0096] The term "substantially" allows deviations that do not adversely affect the intended purpose. Even if the word "substantially" is not explicitly mentioned, the descriptive term should be understood as being modified by the term "substantially".

[0097] The terms "comprise," "include," "have," and "included" (and similarly expressed terms) are used interchangeably and have the same meaning. In particular, each term is to be interpreted as an open or non-exhaustive term, meaning "at least the following," and is also to be interpreted as not excluding additional features, limitations, aspects, etc. For example, "a device having components a, b, and c" means that the device includes at least components a, b, and c. Similarly, the expression "a method including steps a, b, and c" means that the method includes at least steps a, b, and c.

[0098] Therefore, unless the context clearly or explicitly requires otherwise, the words "include", "comprising" and the like in the specification and claims should be interpreted in an inclusive sense rather than an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is, in the sense of "including but not limited to". BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0099] Reference below Figures 1 to 7 An embodiment is described.

[0100] Figure 1 Schematically shows a data processing system in measuring operation, which has an analog measurement value acquisition module,

[0101] Figure 2 Schematically shows Figure 1 Details of the analog measurement value acquisition module in the measurement operation,

[0102] Figure 3 Schematically shows Figure 1 Flowchart of an operating method of a data processing system in Figure 2 The analog measurement value acquisition module in

[0103] Figure 4 Schematically shows when writing or setting the analog measurement value acquisition module, Figure 1 Details of the analog measurement value acquisition module in

[0104] Figure 5 Schematic diagram showing the process for writing specifications into Figure 4 Flowchart of the method of the analog measurement value acquisition module in,

[0105] Figure 6 A flow chart schematically illustrates a method for determining a specification, and

[0106] Figure 7 A graphical user interface used in the method for determining specifications is schematically shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0107] exist Figure 1 The data processing system shown only schematically in the figure comprises a (process) control system 1, a gateway 2 connected to the control system 1, an analog measurement value acquisition module connected to the control system 1 via the gateway 2, and four sensors 4-7 (temperature sensors in this example), which are connected to the control system 1 via the analog measurement value acquisition module 3 and the gateway 2, respectively.

[0108] The analog measurement value acquisition module 2 includes: four channels or ports 34-37, wherein each of these ports 34-37 is configured to be used for one of the sensors 4-7 or connected to one of the sensors 4-7; a (micro)processor 32 connected to the ports 34-37; a non-volatile (flash) memory 38 connected to the processor 32; and an (output / input or I / O) interface 33, through which the analog measurement value acquisition module 3 can communicate bidirectionally with the gateway 2.

[0109] Especially from Figure 4 It can be seen that the memory 38 has four memory areas 381 - 384 of substantially the same size. Each of these four memory areas 381 - 384 is permanently assigned to one of the four ports 34 - 37 in the firmware of the analog measured value acquisition module 3 executed by the processor 32 .

[0110] In this way, the operating method of the data processing system, in particular the analog measurement value acquisition module 3, can be executed, the flow chart of which is shown in FIG. Figure 3 and described in detail below.

[0111] In the first step S1 of the method, the first measuring transducer 4 measures or senses an environmental parameter (temperature in this example), generates a corresponding analog electrical signal A4 according to its measuring transducer characteristics, and outputs the generated analog signal A4 to the first port 34 of the analog measurement value acquisition module 3.

[0112] In the second step S2 of the method, information, namely the first analog signal A4, is received at the port 34 of the analog measurement value acquisition module 3. The analog measurement value acquisition module 3 then converts the first analog signal A4 generated in the first step S1 into a digital signal via an A / D converter (not shown) and outputs the digital signal to the processor 32.

[0113] Processor 32 executes software (in this example, firmware) that, in the third step S3 of the method, determines via which of the four ports 34-37 a digital signal corresponding to the first analog signal is received. To this end, it is conceivable that the (digital) measured values ​​of ports 34-37 are processed successively at regular intervals by the firmware in an endless loop. For the port 34-37 currently being processed, the corresponding memory area 381-384 can be pointed to or referenced, for example, via a software pointer.

[0114] Then, in a fourth step S4 , based on the port 34 - 37 determined in the third step S3 , the memory area 381 - 384 assigned in the software to this particular port 34 - 37 , ie in the present case the first memory area 381 , is accessed by the software.

[0115] In each of these memory areas 381-384, there are stored or saved specifications K34-K37 respectively of how the software should process the digital signals obtained in the above-described manner from the analog signals A4-A7 received via the corresponding ports 34-37.

[0116] Each of these specifications K34-K37 is present in the form of a file having a predefined internal structure in a file format, wherein the software executed by processor 32 is configured to process files in this specific file format. Information on the processing of the measured variable (here, a digital signal obtained from the analog signal A34-A37 from the corresponding measuring transducer 34-37) is contained at a predefined location in the file. Furthermore, the file may contain an (individually assignable) identification number for each measuring transducer 34-37, an (individually assignable) name for each measuring transducer 34-37, information on the unit of the measured value of each measuring transducer 34-37 (so-called output information, e.g., °C, K, Pa, etc.), other information (see "Reserved in Table"), and / or a CRC (so-called cyclic redundancy check code).

[0117] The following is presented as an example of a possible internal structure of a file format of a file (which may also be referred to as a sensor description), which is shown in detail in table form.

[0118] address Size (bytes) describe 0x000 4 Identification number (32 digits) 0x004 16 Name (string - 15 characters + 0 bytes) 0x014 2 Unit (16 digits) 0x016 10 Reserve 0x020 36 Sensor head information 0x044 Up to 440 Sensor body information 0x1FC 4 32-bit CRC

[0119] The identification number can be used as a unique identifier for each sensor description created.

[0120] name can be a string giving a human-readable name for the described sensor.

[0121] The unit can describe the unit that the process value or measured value has. The encoding can be based on the HART specification.

[0122] The sensor header information may contain all sensor information required for measurement value recording and linearization.

[0123] The sensor context information may contain the sensor's polynomial and constants.

[0124] The CRC may be a CRC of bytes 0x000 to 0x1FB (inclusive), using the polynomial 0x04C11DB7, with an initial value of 0xFFFFFFFF, with the 32-bit input reflected, the output reflected, and the output XORed with the value 0xFFFFFFFF. In other words, the CRC may be a CRC of the entire content except for the CRC itself.

[0125] In case of access to a specific memory area 381 - 384 (in this case, the first memory area 381 ), the software loads the digital signal processing specifications K34 - K37 (in this case, the first specification K34 ) stored in the memory area into the processor 32 .

[0126] In a fifth step S5 of the method, the software executed by the processor 32 processes the digital signal according to the specification K34 loaded in the fourth step S4 and thereby generates output information T34, namely, so-called measured values, which contain the measured variable in a (file) format readable by the gateway 2. In other words, since the temperature is measured in the present example, the measured value corresponds to the temperature in ° C. corresponding to the measured variable (i.e., for example, the voltage value contained in the analog signal).

[0127] In a sixth step S6 of the method, the output information T34 generated in the fifth step S5 is output to the gateway 2 via the interface 33 of the analog measured value acquisition module 3 using a first communication standard, for example CANopen (protocol) in the case of a CAN interface.

[0128] In a seventh step S7 of the method, the output information T34 received by the gateway 2 in the sixth step S6 is output from the gateway to the control system 1 using a second communication standard (eg Ethernet IP, Modbus TCP, Profinet).

[0129] The above specifically explains the operating method of the analog measurement value acquisition module 3 for the first sensor 4, wherein the method can be executed in the same manner for all sensors 4-7 (i.e., the second sensor outputs the analog signal A5 to the second port 35, and the analog measurement value acquisition module processes the analog signal using the second specification K35 stored in the second storage area 382, ​​etc.).

[0130] In order to establish the above-mentioned state of the analog measured value acquisition module 3, the method for writing the above-mentioned specifications K34-K37 described in detail below can be performed on site, that is, when the analog measured value acquisition module is operated, for example in a factory. Figure 5 As can be seen from the schematic flow chart of FIG, the method for writing specifications K34-K37 basically has four steps S11-S14, wherein by means of Figure 4 The method is described with reference to a detailed view of the analog measured value acquisition module 3 in FIG.

[0131] The specifications K34-K37 to be stored in the memory are respectively files in the above-mentioned file format having a predefined internal structure.

[0132] In a first step S11 of the method, it is determined to which of the four ports 34 - 37 of the analog measured value acquisition module, in this example, the specification is to be assigned.

[0133] In the second step S12 of the method, the specification is sent from the gateway 2 to the interface 33 of the analog measured value acquisition module, wherein the specification is sent in a plurality of data packets of equal size (64 bytes each) to the interface 33. The advantage of splitting the message into a plurality of data packets is that the message bus from the gateway to the analog measured value acquisition module is thus not overloaded or overloaded.

[0134] In a third step S13 of the method, specifications K34 - K37 are received at the interface 33 of the analog measured value acquisition module 3 .

[0135] In the fourth step S14 of the method, the specification is written to the memory areas 381-384 of the memory 38 of the analog measured value acquisition module 3, which are permanently assigned to the ports 34-37 determined in the first step S1. The specification is only written to the memory areas 381-384 of the memory 38 when the entire specification is received at the interface 33. It is conceivable that the data packets or parts thereof are temporarily buffered in another memory (e.g., a RAM) of the analog measured value acquisition module 3.

[0136] A method is described in detail below, wherein the user interface 8 (see Figure 7 ) is used to create the above-mentioned files for specifications K34-K35 (ie for processing the measured variables that can be received from the measuring transducers 4-7 at the analog measured value acquisition module 3). Figure 6 As can be seen from the flowchart schematically shown in FIG, the method basically has two steps S21 and S22.

[0137] In a first step S21 of the method, information characterizing the relationship between the measured variable and the measured values ​​of the respective measuring transducer 4-7 is determined. The relationship between the measured variable and the measured values ​​of the respective measuring transducer, i.e., for example, the polynomial of the characteristic curve, can be obtained, for example, from the standard or data sheet of the measuring transducer. If only base points are specified without polynomials, one or more polynomials matching these base points can be determined in an intermediate step (e.g., using a polynomial regression method).

[0138] To this end, the user is presented with a Figure 7 The input form 8 shown, in which user input information about the relationship between the measured variable and the measured value of the measuring transducer can be entered at predefined locations. In addition, other information required for the sensor description (see above, such as identification number, name, unit, etc.) is also requested.

[0139] Specifically, for characteristic curves, this may also mean that the user first determines the type or kind of function via the graphical user interface 8. To this end, the user may be asked to select from a number of options ( Figure 7 (not shown in the figure). For example, a plurality of images representing different curves of different functions (e.g., quadratic functions, linear functions, etc.) may be displayed to the user. By selecting a function (e.g., by clicking on the corresponding image), the user may determine the type of function.

[0140] The coefficients required to define the function (eg the slope of a linear function) can then be queried via the user interface. The coefficients required for each function can be stored in the computer program on which the user interface is based.

[0141] Then, through Figure 7 The user input information received by the user interface 8, which primarily relates to the relationship between the measured variables and the measured values ​​of the measuring transducers 4-7, is automatically converted into a corresponding file format (see the sensor header information and sensor body information above). This means that, in addition to the other information requested via the user interface 8, the coefficients and the type of function (e.g., linear function, quadratic function, etc.) are also saved in the file (in the manner described above). In other words, in the second step S22 of the method, the specific information is stored in the file at a corresponding predefined location or a location provided for this purpose.

[0142] If the user knows an arbitrary (x-beliebigen) (optionally non-linear) characteristic curve range (e.g. the coefficients are specified in a standard), he can generate a file or a byte structure via an input form, with which he can then program this characteristic curve range into the analog measured value acquisition module.

[0143] List of Reference Numerals

[0144] 1 Control System

[0145] 2 Gateway

[0146] 3 Analog measurement value acquisition module

[0147] 32 processors

[0148] 33 interfaces

[0149] 34-37 Ports for measuring transducers / sensors

[0150] 38 memory, optional flash memory

[0151] 381-384 Storage Area

[0152] 4-7 Measuring transducers / sensors

[0153] 8 Input Form / Graphical User Interface (GUI)

[0154] A4-A7 Analog signal / measurement parameter

[0155] T34-T37 digital signal / measurement value

[0156] K34-K37 Digital signal processing specifications, optionally used as functions for converting measured variables into measured values Steps for operating the S1-S7 analog measured value acquisition module

[0157] S11-S14 Steps of the method for writing specifications to an analog measured value acquisition module S21-S22 Steps for determining the method of specification

Claims

1. An analog measurement value acquisition module (3), wherein the analog measurement value acquisition module (3) comprises: - two ports (34-37), each port (34-37) being capable of connecting a measuring transducer (4-7) to the analog measured value acquisition module (3), and - a memory (38), It is characterized in that - In the memory (38), a respective storage area (381-384) is provided for each of the two ports (34-37), said storage area being permanently assigned to the respective port (34-37).

2. The analog measurement value acquisition module (3) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The analog measured value acquisition module (3) is designed to determine via which of the two ports (34-37) information, optionally a measured variable (A4-A7), is received from a measuring transducer (4-7) that can be connected to the corresponding port (34-37), and to access accordingly a storage area (381-384) that is fixedly assigned to the port (34-37).

3. The analog measurement value acquisition module (3) according to claim 2, characterized in that: Specifications (K34-K37) for processing received information are stored in the accessed storage areas (381-384), and the analog measured value acquisition module (3) is designed to access the specifications (K34-K37).

4. The analog measurement value acquisition module (3) according to claim 3, characterized in that: The analog measured value acquisition module (3) is designed to process the received information using the accessed specifications (K34-K37) for processing the received information, thereby generating output information.

5. The analog measurement value acquisition module (3) according to claim 4, characterized in that: The analog measured value acquisition module (3) has an interface (33) and is designed to output generated output information via the interface (33) to an external data processing device, optionally a gateway, which can be connected to the interface (33).

6. The analog measurement value acquisition module (3) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that: The specification (K34-K37) has or consists of a file, wherein the file is in a file format with a predefined internal structure.

7. The analog measurement value acquisition module (3) according to claim 6, characterized in that: The analog measurement value acquisition module (3) is configured to process a file in a file format having a predefined internal structure.

8. A data processing system, characterized in that: The data processing system comprises: - control systems, and - a gateway connected to said control system, Characterized in that the data processing system comprises: - The analog measured value acquisition module (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, which is connected to the control system via the gateway.

9. An operating method of an analog measurement value acquisition module (3), wherein the analog measurement value acquisition module (3) comprises: - two ports (34-37), each port (34-37) being capable of connecting a measuring transducer (4-7) to the analog measured value acquisition module (3), and - a memory (38), Characterized in that the method comprises: - receiving information from one of said measuring transducers (4-7) via one of said two ports (34-37), - determining via which of the two ports (34-37) the information was received, and - accessing a storage area (381-384) in the memory (38) which is permanently assigned to the port (34-37) which received the information.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that In the accessed storage area (381-384) there are stored specifications (K34-K37) for processing the received information, and the method includes accessing the specifications (K34-K37).

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that The method includes processing the received information using the accessed specification (K34-K37) for processing the received information to generate output information.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The method comprises: outputting the generated output information to an external data processing device (2) connected to the interface (33) via the interface (33) of the analog measurement value acquisition module (3).

13. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that The specification (K34-K37) has or consists of a file, wherein the file is in a file format with a predefined internal structure.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that The specifications (K34-K37) are called by a computer program executed by the analog measurement value acquisition module (3), wherein the computer program is configured to process files in a file format having a predefined internal structure.

15. A computer program comprising commands which, when executed by an analog measured value acquisition module (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, cause the analog measured value acquisition module to execute a method, characterized in that: The method comprises: - determining via which of the at least two ports (34-37) the information was received, and - Access to the storage area (381-384) fixedly assigned to the port (34-37) that received the information.

16. The computer program according to claim 15, characterized in that In the accessed storage area (381-384) there are stored specifications (K34-K37) for processing the received information, and the method includes accessing the specifications (K34-K37).

17. The computer program according to claim 16, characterized in that The method includes processing the received information using the accessed specification (K34-K37) for processing the received information to generate output information.

18. The computer program according to claim 17, characterized in that The method comprises: outputting the generated output information to an external data processing device (2) connected to the interface (33) via the interface (33) of the analog measurement value acquisition module (3).

19. The computer program according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that The specification (K34-K37) has or consists of a file, wherein the file is in a file format with a predefined internal structure.

20. The computer program according to claim 19, characterized in that The computer program is configured to process files in a file format having a predefined internal structure.

21. A computer readable medium comprising a computer program according to any one of claims 15 to 20.

22. A method for writing information processing specifications (K34-K37) into a memory (38) of an analog measurement value acquisition module (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The method comprises: - determining to which of the at least two ports (34-37) of the analog measured value acquisition module (3) the specification (K34-K37) is to be assigned, and - writing the specifications (K34-K37) into storage areas (381-384) permanently assigned to the ports (34-37) in the memory (38) of the analog measured value acquisition module (3).

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that The method comprises: - sending the specifications (K34-K37) from an external data processing device, optionally a gateway, to the interface (33) of the analog measurement value acquisition module (3), and - receiving the specification (K34-K37) at the interface (33) of the analog measured value acquisition module (3), - wherein said specification (K34-K37) is sent to said interface (33) in a plurality of data packets, optionally of the same size.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that Only after a complete specification (K34-K37) has been received at the interface (33) is the specification (K34-K37) written into a storage area (381-384) of the memory (38).

25. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 24, characterized in that The specification (K34-K37) has or consists of a file, wherein the file is in a file format with a predefined internal structure.

26. A method for determining a file with a predefined internal structure for processing measured variables (A4-A7) that can be received from measuring transducers (4-7) at an analog measured value acquisition module (3), characterized in that: The method comprises: - determining information characterizing the relationship between the measured variable (A1-A7) and the measured value (T34-T37) of the measuring transducer (4-7), and - Storing the determined information at a predefined location in said file.

27. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that Determining information characterizing the relationship between the measured variable (A4-A7) and the measured value (T34-T37) of the measuring transducer (4-7) comprises receiving user input information about the relationship between the measured variable (A4-A7) and the measured value (T34-T37) of the measuring transducer (4-7).

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that Determining information characterizing the relationship between the measured variables (A4-A7) and the measured values ​​(T34-T37) of the measuring transducer (4-7) comprises: displaying an input form, optionally on a display of a control system, a personal computer, a tablet and / or a smartphone, in which user input information about the relationship between the measured variables (A4-A7) and the measured values ​​(T34-T37) of the measuring transducer (4-7) can be entered at a predefined location.

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that The input form is part of a web application.

30. A data processing device, characterized in that: The device comprises means for carrying out the method according to one of claims 22 to 25 and / or one of claims 26 to 29.

31. A computer program, characterized in that The computer program contains instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to one of claims 22 to 25 and / or one of claims 26 to 29 .

32. A computer readable medium, characterized in that The medium contains commands which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to one of claims 22 to 25 and / or one of claims 26 to 29.

33. A file for use in an analog measurement value acquisition module (3), characterized in that: The file has a predefined structure and contains, at predefined locations in the file, information for processing measured variables (A4-A7) that can be received from measuring transducers (4-7) at the analog measured value acquisition module (3).

34. The document according to claim 33, characterized in that The file is determined by a method according to one of claims 26 to 29 .

35. A computer readable medium, characterized in that The medium comprises a file according to claim 33 or 34.

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