Method for computer-aided installation of spatially distributed arrangement components of machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (100) for computer-aided installation of spatially distributed components (4) of a machine (1), in particular a device (1), comprising: receiving (101) an identifier (11) of a component (4), preferably an identifier of a connection module (4); providing (102) an installation specification (200) specifying an assignment relationship of the component (4) with one or more installation locations of the machine (1); on the basis of the provided installation specification (200) and the received identifier (11), at least one installation suggestion for installing the component (4) is identified (103), the installation position (201) or a plurality of installation positions (201) being selected on the basis of the evaluation, in particular only partial installation positions (201) being selected, and the installation position (201) or the plurality of installation positions (201) being selected on the basis of the evaluation. And specifying the selected installation position (201) or a plurality of selected installation positions (201) by means of the at least one installation suggestion; and initiating (104) an output of the at least one piece of installation information based on the at least one identified installation suggestion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of planning and assembly of machines, such as automated equipment, and more particularly to computer-aided installation of spatially dispersed components of a machine. Background Art

[0002] The complexity and diversity of automation devices that need to be developed, planned, installed, maintained and repaired are increasing day by day. It is becoming increasingly important to provide efficient and effective support to installers or planners in all phases of the life cycle of such devices, such as development / planning, production, commissioning, operation and maintenance phases, through comprehensive and, most importantly, complete documentation. However, in practice, existing documentation (e.g. in the form of circuit diagrams) does not always meet this requirement, because installation activities are not adequately or completely documented due to poor coordination between work processes or due to the use of poorly coordinated documentation tools. These known situations inevitably lead to documentation gaps in the device documentation, which makes reliable maintenance or repair of the device difficult or, in the worst case, impossible.

[0003] Therefore, one task of the present invention is to provide a computer-aided method and system for achieving simpler, faster, safer and error-free component installation and at least partially overcoming the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0004] The above-mentioned object is achieved by a method, a system, a computer program and a device for data processing according to the independent claims. Further features and details of the invention are derived from the respective dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0005] The subject matter of the invention is, in particular, a method for computer-aided (preferably electrical) installation of spatially dispersed components (especially electrical components) of a machine (especially a system, preferably an electrical engineering system).

[0006] The machine can be designed as at least one of the following machines:

[0007] -Automation equipment;

[0008] - production equipment;

[0009] -Logistics equipment;

[0010] - production line;

[0011] - machining centres;

[0012] -Industrial robots;

[0013] - manufacturing equipment;

[0014] -unit;

[0015] -Electrical installations.

[0016] In particular, the machine can be designed as a machine with modular characteristics, or can also be designed as a mobile or movable machine, in which the various parts of the machine are installed in a modular manner according to installation specifications. This installation is at least partially done manually by a user such as a worker.

[0017] Components, in particular electrical components, can include mounting elements, such as cables and / or plug connectors. Furthermore, components, in particular electrical components, can include modules, such as connection modules, wherein the connection modules enable a decentralized modular connection of the mounting elements. Decentralized can mean that the connection modules at least partially replace the central control cabinet, because although the connection modules each only provide partial connections for the machine, these connections are realized in a decentralized manner on site. In central topologies (e.g. centralized control cabinet concepts), this refers in particular to point-to-point connections, i.e. the starting point, connection and end point are clearly defined. In contrast, in decentralized applications, it is possible and even necessary in many cases to arrange or connect multiple components between the starting point and the end point. In this case, one can speak of, for example, a module-to-module or module-to-hub-to-point connection.

[0018] In principle, for a machine, for example, the following components can be provided: devices (such as actuators and / or sensors), connection modules, installation elements (for example for wiring). Accordingly, these components can also be implemented as installation elements.

[0019] The method according to the invention may comprise the following steps, which are preferably performed sequentially or in any order, wherein these steps may also be performed automatically and / or repeatedly:

[0020] - receiving an identifier of a component, preferably an identifier of a connection module, a cable, a plug connector or another component such as a sensor or an actuator;

[0021] - providing an installation specification which specifies the assignment of the component to one or more installation locations of the machine;

[0022] - based on the provided installation specification and the received identifier, identifying at least one installation suggestion for installing the component, wherein an installation location or a plurality of installation locations, in particular only some of the installation locations, are preferably selected based on the evaluation (particularly preferably automatically), wherein the selected installation location or the selected installation locations are specified by the at least one installation suggestion; and

[0023] - Based on at least one identified installation suggestion, initiating output of at least one installation information.

[0024] The method thus enables a simpler, faster and error-free allocation of components, thereby being able to support the user in the installation of the machine to a great extent and simplifying the process. In addition, in this way, an installation support system (in particular a support system for component installation) can be provided spatially directly at the machine and / or machine parts to guide the user in positioning. It is possible for the device for data processing to automatically perform these method steps. The device for data processing (in particular the device for data processing according to the invention) can advantageously communicate with the individual components, for example to receive identifiers and / or to initiate outputs and / or to check the installation situation and / or to determine the connection status. For this purpose, the device for data processing can have at least one interface for communication.

[0025] The user may be, for example, an installer, an equipment mechanic, an electrician, a worker, a planner, a mechanical designer or developer, an electrical designer or developer, an SPS programmer, a commissioning person, a maintenance person or a machine operator. The user may use the method according to the invention in the following manner: the method (and preferably the output) is provided to the user at least in part via a computer. For this purpose, a computer program may be executed at least in part by the computer and / or another computer to perform the method steps according to the invention. The computer may be a mobile computer such as a laptop or a tablet computer.

[0026] In addition, multiple users can apply the method according to the present invention simultaneously or at least partially simultaneously. Accordingly, the method steps according to the present invention can also be executed multiple times and / or at least partially in parallel in time. For example, for at least two, at least three or at least four users, each of these steps is executed at least partially simultaneously. When selecting the installation location, the current location of different users can be considered as appropriate (for example, the installation location close to a certain user is preferably selected). Similarly, for all users, the method can also use the same installation specifications. For this reason, the installation specifications can, for example, be centrally stored so that all users can access the specifications, for example, through a data network, and the installation progress of all users can be centrally tracked to make it transparent and visible.

[0027] In order to install the machine, a plurality of components can be provided. For example, actuators and / or sensors are connected to a control device via the installed components so that a control device such as an SPS can drive and / or read the actuators and / or sensors. Each component can be assigned an identifier by which the components can be uniquely identified. Accordingly, the identifier can be, for example, information that can be digitally processed. The identifier can, for example, include a serial number and / or a product number. Therefore, it is also possible to determine the technical characteristics of the component based on the identifier (for example, the product number or similar information can be determined based on the serial number, and the technical characteristics associated with the product number can be obtained). Similarly, in the installation specifications, it is also possible to indicate which technical requirements are imposed on the component at which installation location by means of the product number or in a similar manner. This enables the components to be assigned to one or more installation locations.

[0028] In the context of the present invention, installation locations are understood to be, for example, (electrical) interface points and / or components of a machine and / or connecting elements and / or machine components, to which the component can be electrically and / or mechanically connected.

[0029] The individual components can be provided with identifiers by providing and / or mounting a physical or electronic identification medium on a mounting element. These components can be, for example, mounting elements, connection modules, devices, cables or components which are functional parts of the machine. The identifier advantageously comprises a unique, in particular unambiguous identification. This makes it possible to uniquely identify the component in relation to the machine and / or other machines and / or the machine installation using the identifier. Furthermore, according to the method of the invention, it is also possible to initiate the printing of a physical identification medium and / or to automatically transfer a digital identification medium to the component.

[0030] One or more information about the component can be assigned to the identifier. At least one information may include at least one of the following information: at least one status information, output installation information, identification of the identified component, at least one of the document specifications described in further detail below (such as component type, machine type, device type, user, name, name, site name, timestamp (such as date and time), installation duration, address in the bus system, application-specific tag, operating medium identification, port allocation, port configuration, temperature, air humidity, acceleration, emissions, current project status at installation, plan deviation and cause, component serial number, component product number, component MAC address, and preferably the MAC address of the network interface of the component). Therefore, digital storage of at least one information assigned to the identifier can create a digital twin of the component. In this way, passive intelligence of the component can be achieved. Application-specific tags should be understood in particular as identifiers in the IO-Link communication system. IO-Link is defined in standard IEC 61131-9 as a communication system for connecting smart sensors and actuators to automation systems.

[0031] Intelligence refers in particular to the expansion of industrial products (such as components and / or parts and / or installation elements, such as cables) with intelligent, automatically exploitable properties. With the help of information technology, components can be made able to process data and provide additional added value. Passive intelligence can be achieved by means of passive intelligent elements such as near field communication (NFC) chips (German: Nahfeldkommunikation, abbreviated as NFC) and / or machine-readable codes as a corresponding preliminary step. This can lay the foundation for the automatic acquisition or modification and its impact on the function of the machine. Unique, preferably unambiguous identification combined with access to external databases allows active enrichment of information and thus passive intelligence.

[0032] In particular, the devices of the machine (such as actuators and / or sensors) are operated via these components, that is, preferably driven and / or read. To operate these devices, a control device such as an SPS can be provided, which can realize the electrical operation of the device via the components and the installation elements. For this purpose, the control device can be electrically connected to these components.

[0033] Preferably, the component may include a connection module, such as a fieldbus module. The fieldbus module can connect other components in the machine, such as installation elements, components and / or devices, via a digital bus system, in particular a fieldbus. A plurality of connection modules can be connected for communication via a bus system. The fieldbus in particular includes a bus cable and connects all levels from the field level to the control level. Regardless of the type of automation, the fieldbus can network the components in the device. The fieldbus is preferably also a digital communication network, which can transmit different signals of the various components via fieldbus nodes, so-called hubs. Communication via the fieldbus can be carried out using different communication protocols.

[0034] It is also possible that at least one installation information comprises installation instructions for supporting a user such as a worker and / or installer during the installation process. The installation instructions may also comprise installation instructions, such as step-by-step instructions.

[0035] Initiating output may include at least one of the following steps:

[0036] - initiating a display of at least one selected installation position of the component on a user interface of the computer, wherein preferably the user interface visualizes a digital twin of at least a part of the machine and preferably visualizes a topology and / or a mechanical and / or electrical connection diagram of this part of the machine, so that the installation position can be displayed in particular by marking the installation position on the digital twin and / or the topology and / or the connection diagram;

[0037] - at least one selected installation position of the component is displayed by means of augmented reality activation and is thus preferably displayed by marking directly on the physical, actual installation position;

[0038] - starting output of an installation instruction as an instruction to instruct a user to select a desired installation location for installation from a list of a plurality of selected installation locations, and / or installing the component at the (preferably desired) installation location;

[0039] - starting an acoustic output of the installation instructions, in particular a spoken output, preferably reading out the name of the installation location;

[0040] - starting a graphical display of installation instructions, preferably in a graphical user interface, preferably in connection with a visualization of the machine;

[0041] -Starts a graphical display showing a list of multiple selected installation locations based on the installation proposal.

[0042] This enables the user to directly understand through the installation instructions how the component should be installed. For example, by displaying at least one installation position of the component in the installation specification, it can be shown where the component should be connected to the machine and / or which part of the machine the component can be electrically connected to. The part of the machine can be, for example, another component and / or a connecting element and / or a component.

[0043] At least one selected installation location, in particular an installation location suggested according to the installation specification for connecting a component with a received identifier, can be queried from the installation specification, for example, via the received identifier. To this end, the installation specification can allow an electronic query, for example via a database and / or a list and / or the like. It is also possible that a plurality of installation locations are provided in the installation specification, at which the component is suitable for installation. For example, the identifier can specify technical characteristics of the component (e.g. based on a product number and / or a serial number), while the installation specification can specify technical requirements for different installation locations (e.g. based on a product number). If it is determined by the evaluation that the component is suitable at a certain installation location, then this installation location can be selected and the installation recommendation can recommend the installation of the component at this location.

[0044] Displaying at least one selected installation location as an installation suggestion on the user interface may, for example, include a graphical representation of one or more installation locations for the component, wherein at least one selected installation location suggested for connecting the component having the received identifier may be graphically highlighted.

[0045] The user interface may be a graphical user interface, which is preferably displayed on a screen of a computer. The computer may be, for example, a portable computer such as a notebook or a tablet computer.

[0046] Display by augmented reality (English: Augmented Reality) can be achieved, for example, in the following ways: the user uses virtual reality (VR) glasses to display additional information, and / or records the user's environment by means of a camera and processes the camera image so that additional information is added to the camera image. This additional information includes, for example, highlighting the physical installation location of the component when it is visible in the camera image. The user can also use an input tool to mark the highlighted installation location. The marked installation location can then be recorded by an installation message as appropriate, so that the information that the component has been installed at the installation location is automatically stored in the installation specification.

[0047] Furthermore, an acoustic output can also be provided, which comprises, for example, the activation of a loudspeaker. The acoustic output can be, for example, a speech output, by which the name of the installation location is read out.

[0048] It is conceivable that at least one piece of installation information for computer-aided installation is used at least in the following way: the installation information includes the specification of at least one installation position at which the component can be connected to another component and / or an installation element such as a cable. The installation information thus supports the installation, since it is no longer necessary for an experienced user to manually evaluate and search for suitable installation positions in the circuit diagram during the installation process. Instead, this task can be accomplished automatically, since suitable installation positions can be automatically selected and indicated by the installation information.

[0049] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least one selected installation position is indicated (at which position, for example, the component can be connected to another component and / or an installation element such as a cable). Within the scope of the invention, it is also advantageous if the method comprises the following further step: determining the connection status of the component to determine whether a connection has been established. Thus, this provides a feedback method for realizing computer-aided installation by automatically identifying the progress of the installation. For example, an electrical connection check can be performed, by which it can be automatically determined whether the electrical component has established an electrically conductive connection via a bus system (for example a fieldbus system). Other additional or alternative methods for determining the connection status can also be provided. Therefore, determining the connection status can also include: receiving an installation message based on an input of a user and / or an input of a component. The received installation message can indicate that the connection of the component has been established. Accordingly, it can be checked whether the installation position specified in the installation information or the selected installation position is actually connected to the bus system. It is possible to trigger the recording by determining that the connection has been established (for example, by manual confirmation by a user and / or automatic confirmation). When recording, for example, an installation document is stored, as will be described in further detail below. The recording can be repeated as appropriate, for example, each time an activity is confirmed, so that the installation record is gradually established. In order to enable the user in the machine to see the installation instructions on the one hand and to be able to record the completed work in the system on the other hand, it is advantageous if the system (and preferably the device according to the invention) can communicate with these components. After installation and / or recording, the control device can be programmed based on the recording and / or the components can be configured, as the case may be. For this reason, it is possible that the component does not know beforehand what task it is to perform in the future machine. This can also be referred to as "unconfigured".

[0050] A further advantage can be achieved within the scope of the present invention if the method comprises the following further steps:

[0051] - based on the received identifier and the installation specification, verifying the selected installation location of the component, in particular in order to determine whether the user has correctly executed the installation information in the form of installation instructions for the selected installation location,

[0052] It is preferred that the mark of the installation specification is stored according to the verification result, and it is particularly preferred that the following steps are performed when the verification result is positive:

[0053] - storing the marking of the installation location in the installation specification as the correctly selected installation location,

[0054] Advantageously, when the verification result is negative, at least one of the following steps is performed:

[0055] - Storing a designation of the installation location as a modified selected installation location in the installation specifications, preferably based on installation parameters recorded by the user, in particular the reason or justification for the modification, wherein preferably a statement of the reason or justification for the modification is also stored.

[0056] - Starts correction of the selected installation location according to the installation specifications.

[0057] Advantageously, the verification can be performed based on the determination of the connection status. The verification can thus assess whether the user has correctly selected the installation location based on the information of the identifier. The verification result can be used to store a mark in the installation specification. In this way, the installation specification can be used later to check which properties the component has in the selected installation location, for example whether a suitable mounting element can be connected to the checked component, and / or to check to what extent there are deviations during the installation process compared to the technical properties of the installation location selected in the installation specification.

[0058] If the user deviates from the installation instructions, this is usually for a relevant reason or justification. Therefore, a possibility can be provided to the user, for example, to input installation parameters via a user interface and / or an input device such as voice input and / or keyboard and / or mouse and / or touch screen. Advantageously, in the event of a negative verification result (i.e. the user did not correctly carry out the installation instructions), at least one of the following steps can be performed: a marking of the interface point is stored in the installation specification as a changed connection interface point, preferably based on the installation parameters recorded by the user, in particular the reason or justification for the change, wherein preferably a description of the reason or justification for the change is stored at the same time, and preferably: a correction of the connection is initiated according to the installation specification. For example, the correction can include an adjustment of the installation specification when the new connection is reasonable and therefore beneficial for the desired installation.

[0059] Furthermore, it can be provided that the at least one installation information includes installation instructions for supporting the user during reassembly of the machine, wherein preferably initiating the output includes at least the following step: initiating the output of an installation sequence for the installation of the machine by means of the at least one installation information. The installation information can, for example, include installation instructions, which also specify the installation sequence. This simplifies the installation process for the user during reassembly and speeds up the installation, since a tedious interpretation of circuit diagrams, in particular connection diagrams, is at least partially no longer necessary.

[0060] According to an advantageous development of the invention, provision can be made that initiating the output comprises initiating a bidirectional communication with the identified component via the bus system. This enables, for example, during the configuration of the component or components, communication to be significantly simplified and accelerated. The output can be triggered, for example, by transmitting a specific message, preferably an instruction or configuration message, to the component via the bus system. For this purpose, a computer program can be executed, for example, by a device for data processing, wherein the device for data processing is connected to the bus system.

[0061] It may be provided that identifying at least one installation suggestion comprises the following steps:

[0062] - determining at least one technical property of the component based on the received identifier (preferably based on a serial number and / or a product number),

[0063] - determining, based on the provided installation specification (preferably based on the product number), at least one technical requirement of the component for at least one installation location, in particular a requirement for at least one technical property of the component, wherein the requirement may be a requirement for the installation (e.g. connection) of the component at the at least one installation location,

[0064] - performing an evaluation to compare whether at least one technical property of the component meets at least one technical requirement for the respective installation location,

[0065] -Select the installation location or locations that determine the requirement.

[0066] In this way, it is possible to automatically indicate at which or which installation positions a specific component can be installed. For example, it is feasible to define the technical requirements for each installation position in the installation specification. This can be achieved, for example, by specifying the product number of the component for the corresponding installation position. However, for correct installation, it is not necessary to specify the specific component in the installation specification (for example, by serial number), because other components with different serial numbers can also have the same technical properties according to the product number. It is also conceivable that for correct installation, the component can be installed in one of the installation positions, and the product number specified in the installation position is different from the product number of the component. This is because the component can also meet the technical requirements of the component with the product number. For example, a component in the form of a connecting element with the technical property of "8 meters in length" can also be installed in an installation position with a prescribed technical requirement of "5 meters in length", because the connecting element can be cut accordingly. However, for correct installation, a component in the form of a connecting module with the technical property of "slave device" cannot be installed in an installation position with a prescribed technical requirement of "master device".

[0067] Cables or mounting elements can be passively intelligentized by marking them with a machine-readable code containing the product number and / or serial number as well as other technical properties. This enables the system to directly check, verify and document the technical suitability of the mounting element. For example, it can be determined whether the mounting element is suitable for use in energy chains or whether it is installed in a location that is subject to static loads and is therefore overkill as a suitable element for energy chains for this installation location. Furthermore, by marking with a serial number, the mounting element can be clearly assigned to the respective mounting location after documentation and can also be assigned later when the respective location is removed or replaced.

[0068] The requirements for technical properties can be extracted, for example, based on the installation specifications, i.e., based on the article number specified in the installation specifications for a certain installation location, the technical requirements can be determined from the (possibly digital) data sheet for this article number. In this way, even for components that are not explicitly specified in the installation specifications, a suitable installation location can be found. This reduces the technical effort for obtaining components and also allows existing components to be used.

[0069] It is possible that it is determined in the evaluation that at least one technical property of the component does not meet at least one requirement, i.e. the component is an underperforming component. However, it is also possible that at least one technical property of the component even exceeds at least one requirement (see the example of the 8-meter-long connecting element above). In this way, the component may be an overperforming component. This overperformance can be quantified accordingly in the evaluation. When selecting one or more installation locations, it can be provided that such an installation location is selected and / or preferentially selected for installing the component at which the degree of overperformance is as low as possible. It is also possible to determine a ranked list of the selected installation locations based on the quantification of the overperformance and / or to indicate this ranked list by the installation information.

[0070] The following steps may also be specified:

[0071] The installation location or locations that are determined to only partially meet the requirements are selected, wherein installation instructions can be generated with operating and / or prompting instructions in order to nevertheless install the component at this installation location.

[0072] For example, in the case of insufficient component performance, there may still be a way to install the component. For example, these operations can take some measures to compensate for the insufficient performance of the component. For example, in the case of a requirement for a certain level of protection, the operation can ensure that the protection of the component is achieved through other measures.

[0073] This requirement can for example include requirements in the form of protection levels and / or provisions of physical properties and / or provisions of technical (particularly electrical and / or mechanical) specifications. Preferably, this requirement can be implemented as a minimum requirement for technical properties (for example, a minimum length of a connecting element).

[0074] Furthermore, a ranked list of selected installation locations can be determined based on the comparison results. The evaluation can, for example, quantify the degree of satisfaction, so that the determination of the satisfaction of the requirements does not have to be given in a binary manner. The installation locations can then be prioritized based on this quantification. It is conceivable that the entire ranked list is displayed to the user as a list of selected installation locations. It is also conceivable that only a part of the ranked list is displayed to the user, for example only the installation locations with the lowest degree of excess component performance are displayed as selected installation locations.

[0075] Furthermore, determining at least one technical property of the component may include reading the technical property from a database. For example, at least one technical property is assigned to the identifier in the database.

[0076] Additionally, determining at least one technical requirement may include:

[0077] - a designation is determined in the installation specifications, preferably a product number in the circuit diagram, wherein the designation is preferably associated with predefined technical properties,

[0078] -Reading predetermined technical properties from a database based on the tag to determine the technical requirements.

[0079] The mark may be, for example, a product number. If it is now determined that the identifier already corresponds to the product number, the comparison may be skipped as appropriate, since it may be determined that the requirement has been met. The database may be accessed, for example, via a network and / or the Internet. The database may be provided locally or via the cloud.

[0080] The method of the invention may comprise at least one of the following further steps:

[0081] - generating another identifier for the component to mark that a specific component has been installed at the installation location;

[0082] - Extending the installation specification with an identifier and / or other specifications of the component (preferably a network address, such as an IP address and / or a MAC address and / or an application-specific tag), preferably assigning it to the user's selected installation location for installing the component.

[0083] As mentioned above, before the component is installed, the installation specification may only contain general information about which component is assigned to which installation position. The component may also be suitable for multiple installation positions, so that only through the user's installation operation can it be determined at which installation position a specific component is actually installed. In order to mark this in the installation specification, another identifier and / or other specifications can be queried. For example, the serial number of the installed component can be stored in the installation specification for this installation position. It is also possible (and may be necessary for the control of the control device) to store the MAC address or other network address (such as application-specific label) of the installed component in the installation specification. It is also conceivable that a sensor is provided as a component, which receives the device name and / or application-specific label. This can also be stored as another identifier in the installation specification as appropriate. The described storage can lead to an extension of the installation specification, so that the installation progress and / or status are recorded in the installation specification. In this way, in the subsequent operation of the machine (for example, when a fault such as a cable break occurs), fault detection and / or diagnosis can also be performed based on the extended installation specification (for example by the control device). Furthermore, in the event of a reassembly of the machine and the use of so-called application-specific labels as identifiers, it is advantageously possible to install the mounting elements more simply and more quickly, since the selection of the correct interface point as a requirement can be omitted due to these identifiers.

[0084] Advantageously, the invention can provide for receiving at least one of the following specifications, preferably via an installation message, in order to create a digital twin of the installation element and / or electrical component based on the received identifier and the identified component: component type, machine type, device type, user, name, name, I / O-Link name, site name, timestamp (date and time), installation duration, address in the bus system, operating medium identification, port assignment, port configuration, temperature, air humidity, acceleration, emissions, current project status at the time of installation, plan deviations and / or reasons. Within the scope of the invention, the at least one specification can also be referred to as a documentation specification.

[0085] The installation message may be generated, for example, based on an input by a user in which the user may specify at least one specification. It is also possible that the specification is determined automatically, for example by the component and / or the means for data processing, in particular based on a received identifier. For example, the at least one specification may be stored in the component and / or the installation element.

[0086] In another possible case, it can be provided that the installation information includes an installation configuration and / or an installation documentation record, preferably for disassembly and / or reassembly of the machine, which is stored for recording, preferably in a data memory, and / or transmitted to the electrical component. The data memory can be a non-volatile data memory in order to reliably enable a subsequent evaluation of the installation configuration and / or the installation documentation record. For example, the installation configuration and / or the installation documentation record can include a stored mark based on the verification result.

[0087] Within the scope of the invention, another advantage can be achieved if the installation information includes a unique identifier for marking the installation element and / or the identified component, and the installation information is stored in the installation specification, in particular in a digitized design drawing (preferably including ECAD data and / or MCAD data), and / or the installation element is selected from a plurality of similar installation elements based on the identifier, and / or the identified component is selected from a plurality of similar components. Therefore, the installation specification enables the allocation relationship between the installation element and the component to be queried based on the identifier and / or the identifier. To this end, the installation specification can include the mutual association between these identifiers and / or the association with the identifier. The identifier can optionally be uniquely associated with one of the identifiers of the installation element, and / or the identifier can correspond to the identifier.

[0088] A further advantage is achieved within the scope of the invention if the installation specifications include predefined specifications (preferably based on pre-given ECAD data and / or MCAD data) about the modular and / or decentralized structure of the machine (in particular the installation), in particular about the connection of the components in the form of connection modules (preferably including an electrical connection diagram), and preferably the installation specifications are determined by a linking of the ECAD data and the MCAD data. In this way, the installation specifications can include a digital circuit diagram and / or a design drawing and / or an installation drawing of the machine.

[0089] Furthermore, it is conceivable within the scope of the present invention that the component is configured according to the identifier in order to convert the component from a basic configuration state (in which the component is preferably configured for bidirectional communication via a bus system and / or excludes functional driving by a control device (preferably an SPS)) to a state with an extended configuration in order to perform functional driving by the control device.

[0090] The received identifier enables the identification of which component should be connected to which mounting location. This identification can be used to automatically perform the configuration required for the installation of the component, which significantly reduces the workload for configuring the component during installation or at a later stage of the operation of the device. For example, it is determined which components are connected (or will be connected) to the bus system based on the received identifier and the installation specification. Accordingly, the component can be configured for the mounting location so that the control device knows which component is connected when the function is subsequently driven. This enables the control device, for example, to check or operate at least one device (such as an actuator and / or a sensor) of the installation element and / or the machine via the component.

[0091] Within the scope of the invention, a further advantage is achieved if the identifier comprises an identification, in particular a product number of the connection module, and / or a type of the component, in particular a type of the connection module, and / or at least one technical property of the component.

[0092] This has the advantage that a very fast assignment of the component based on the identifier is ensured.

[0093] In another possible case, it can be provided that the evaluation for selecting at least one installation location comprises the following further method steps: simulating the technical properties of the components of at least one selected installation location to take into account their influence on the functions specified in the installation specifications, thereby providing simulation results about the suitability and / or functional capabilities of the components for the selected installation location, wherein initiating the output of at least one installation information comprises the following steps: initiating the output of an operation recommendation as a recommendation to the user, namely installing an alternative component at the at least one selected installation location based on the simulation results.

[0094] This enables a more flexible and error-free installation of components to be ensured.

[0095] Alternatively, the machine can be designed as an electrical engineering machine, preferably as an apparatus, more preferably as an automation apparatus, particularly preferably as an industrial automation apparatus. Computer-aided installation can particularly mean that during the (actual) installation of the machine, a computer program (particularly according to the invention) and / or a device (particularly according to the invention) and / or a system (particularly according to the invention) outputs installation information to support a user such as an installer. The output can be performed, for example, in the following way: the installation information is output in a visual and / or acoustic and / or at least partially physical form, for example in paper form.

[0096] In addition, optionally, the installation can be performed based on the installation specification. The installation specification can be stored in a non-volatile data storage device so that the installation specification can be accessed and provided when performing computer-aided installation. Optionally, it can also be accessed via a network. In addition, the installation specification can include an installation overview diagram of the components dispersedly arranged on the device, for example, presented in digital form. Based on the installation specification, one or more corresponding installation instructions can be derived before, during or after assembly, disassembly or reassembly as appropriate.

[0097] Furthermore, "computer-assisted" may preferably mean that the actual installation form (in particular the installation of the component in the form of an actual electrical engineering component) is supported by a (in particular as mentioned above) system and / or at least one (in particular as mentioned above) device (such as at least one computer), in a manner preferably prepared before the (actual) installation and / or accompanied by the execution of method steps of the method according to the invention (at least partially) during the installation process. The installation information and / or installation instructions can then be provided, for example, to at least one user (such as an installer) in order to further implement the installation, for example by output (in particular by screen and / or voice output and / or by means of augmented reality).

[0098] Optionally, the machine, in particular in the form of an automated device, can be configured and / or used to:

[0099] - automatic control and / or monitoring of processes, preferably in industrial applications and / or in production lines or manufacturing lines, and / or

[0100] - reading sensors and / or driving actuators such as motors, preferably via a fieldbus and / or via a connection module, and / or

[0101] - control and / or monitor the production process,

[0102] - Make adjustments to equipment and / or in a production line or manufacturing line.

[0103] Furthermore, a device for data processing, including means for carrying out the steps of the method according to the invention, may also be the subject of the present invention. The device may be adapted to communicate with a component, in particular a module of a machine, in particular an apparatus, preferably when the module is not preconfigured and / or connected to a control device.

[0104] Furthermore, it is possible that the components and the computer and / or the control device are respectively connected to one another via a bus system for bidirectional communication, wherein the bidirectional communication is based on a communication protocol of the field bus system, in particular based on the ProfiNet standard, the Ethernet / IP standard, EtherCAT or the IEEE 802.3 standard, and / or the bidirectional communication is carried out in a wired manner via the bus system or in a wireless manner via Bluetooth or WLAN (based on compliance with the IEEE 802.11 standard or on mobile telecommunication standards).

[0105] The subject matter of the present invention also includes a computer program, which includes instructions that, when executed by a computer (such as the device for data processing according to the present invention), cause the computer to perform the steps of the method according to the present invention. Therefore, the computer program according to the present invention has the same advantages as the method according to the present invention described in detail.

[0106] It can be provided that a plurality of users execute (the same) method steps simultaneously and / or at least partially simultaneously. The execution of (the same) method steps by a plurality of users simultaneously and / or at least partially simultaneously is also referred to as a multi-user application.

[0107] In the case of the method according to the invention, in particular in multi-user applications and / or in further methods, provision can be made for handovers between different users. In order to enable a handover between (preferably two) users and to ensure an optimal process, the processing progress of each user can be digitally recorded automatically and in real time. In this way, two or more users can work simultaneously in different areas of the machine without jeopardizing the integrity of the electrical installation and without requiring time-consuming coordination processes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0108] To better understand the present disclosure, please refer to the following figures:

[0109] Figure 1 : Central connection of the machine via the control cabinet.

[0110] Figure 2 : Distributed connection according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] Figure 3 : Schematic representation of parts of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Figure 4 : Schematic representation of method details according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] Figure 5 : Schematic representation of method steps according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0114] The planning, installation and setup of machines and electronic automation technology is a complex task. This applies equally to centralized control cabinet systems as well as to decentralized systems, in which the control modules are installed directly on the equipment. The corresponding processes are carried out by different personnel, such as equipment planners, electrical planners, installers, equipment programmers, etc. A special feature of decentralized systems compared to centralized control cabinet systems is that the modules are distributed at different locations in the machine. Especially for larger machines, it may be advantageous for time and logistics reasons to have multiple users carry out the installation simultaneously (i.e. in parallel at the same time). In order to achieve a smooth installation process, the progress of the work should be digitally recorded automatically, for each user and in real time. It is important to have complete documentation of all relevant information for different reasons (e.g. maintenance planning, system diagnostics) throughout the entire equipment life cycle.

[0115] exist Figure 1 The central connection via the control cabinet 9 is schematically shown in order to Figure 2 In contrast, the decentralized connection of the spatially decentralized components 4 of the machine 1 is Figure 1 All devices 5 (such as sensors and actuators) shown in FIG. are directly connected to the control cabinet 9. Figure 2 In the decentralized connection of the device 5, a plurality of components 4, in particular connection modules, can be used. These connection modules, like the control cabinet 9, can connect the device 5 to the control device 8 (such as SPS). However, the connection modules 4 can be arranged in a decentralized manner near the device 5. Therefore, each connection module 4 is only partially connected to the device 5, wherein the connection modules 4 are connected together or, for example, one and / or more connection modules 4 are connected via one and / or more hubs 6 respectively. In order to be able to centrally configure and / or drive the connection modules 4, a master module 3 can be arranged in front of a plurality of individual connection modules 4. It is also possible to further subdivide the connection via at least one hub 6.

[0116] exist Figure 3 1 shows part of a system 2 according to an embodiment of the invention, which can be used for computer-aided installation of spatially dispersed components 4 of a machine 1. The system 2 can include a detection device 22, in particular a scanner 22 or a camera 22, for providing an identifier 11. In addition, the system 2 can have at least one component 4, preferably in the form of a connection module 4, for connecting to a mounting element 10 and other mounting elements 10. A device 30 for data processing can also be part of the system 2, wherein the device 30 for data processing can include a device for performing the steps of the method 100 according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0117] The identifier 11 may be encoded in a machine-readable code 12 associated with one of the components 4 (in particular provided on the component), wherein the machine-readable code 12 is executed in a machine-readable manner by the detection device 22. In this way, a user can scan the code 12 using the detection device 22, thereby transmitting the identifier 11 to the device 30 for data processing.

[0118] In addition, the component 4 and at least one computer 30, 31 and / or the control device 8 can be connected to each other through a bus system 21 (e.g., a field bus system) to perform bidirectional communication, wherein the bidirectional communication can be based on the communication protocol of the field bus system, in particular based on the ProfiNet standard, the EthernetCat standard, the Ethernet / IP or the 802.3 standard, and / or the bidirectional communication can be performed in a wired manner through the bus system 21, or in a wireless manner through Bluetooth or WLAN (based on compliance with the IEEE 802.11 standard or based on a mobile telecommunication standard). In order to enable the component 4 to operate, the component 4 can also be connected to a power supply 13.

[0119] Furthermore, the figure shows a computer program 20 which comprises instructions which, when executed by a computer 30 , cause the computer 30 to perform the steps of a method 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] Furthermore, an exemplary installation specification 200 and an installation position 201 of a component 4 depicted therein are shown.

[0121] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the method steps of the method 100 are visualized. Thus, according to a first method step 101, it can be provided to receive an identifier 11 of a component 4. Subsequently, according to a second method step 102, an operation of providing 102 an installation specification 200 can be performed, which specifies an assignment relationship of the component 4 to one or more installation locations of the machine 1. Then, according to a third method step 103, at least one installation suggestion for installing the component 4 can be identified 103 based on the provided installation specification 200 and the received identifier 11, wherein by identifying 103, an installation location or multiple installation locations are selected based on an evaluation, in particular only a part of the installation locations are selected, and the selected installation location or multiple selected installation locations are specified by at least one installation suggestion. Then, according to a fourth method step 104, outputting at least one installation information can be initiated based on the at least one identified installation suggestion. The at least one installation information can include installation instructions for supporting the user during the installation process.

[0122] The method 100 may provide at least one of the following support methods:

[0123] - Support the user during the installation process, especially in terms of component mounting and wiring;

[0124] - Support users with installation documentation;

[0125] - Support users in testing / automated testing;

[0126] - Support users in disassembly;

[0127] -Support engineering staff in the planning process;

[0128] -Support for SPS programmers.

[0129] The startup output can include a startup display or optical highlight Figure 3 The installation position 201 of the component 4 shown in the figure is displayed, thereby displaying the installation position for the component 4 to be connected, in particular the selected installation position 201. Alternatively or additionally, starting the output may include starting to display the installation position of the component 4 on the user interface 32 of the computer 31. The user interface 32 can visualize the digital twin of at least a part of the machine 1, and preferably visualize the mechanical and / or electrical connection diagram of the part of the machine 1. Other alternative or additional outputs include displaying the installation position 201 of the component 4 through augmented reality, and / or outputting installation instructions as instructions to the user to connect the component 4 to a specific installation position 201. In addition, an auditory output of the installation instructions can also be set so that the user can follow the installation instructions without looking at the computer 31. For example, the identification of the selected installation position 201 of the component 4 is output in voice.

[0130] Furthermore, the installation information may include an installation configuration and / or an installation documentation record, which is stored in the data memory 33 and / or transmitted to the component 4 .

[0131] In order to avoid documentation errors that could occur when entering information manually, it can be advantageous to store it automatically in the system. For example, in different documents of the installation specification, such as circuit diagrams or connection diagrams, all information is stored in the correct place. Then, the person carrying out the corresponding steps, for example, only has to confirm these entries.

[0132] The installation documentation may include relevant information such as:

[0133] - Which component is used (unique, preferably unambiguous identification)?

[0134] - On which machine is the specific part installed and where on that machine is it installed?

[0135] -Who made the connection and when?

[0136] -How are the cables connected?

[0137] -Are the components connected correctly?

[0138] -Are there any deviations from the plan?

[0139] Through the installation document record, for example, at least one of the following information can be recorded: the user's work steps and additional information of the work steps (such as processing duration, on which machine the work is done, which user (such as which installer or assembler) performed these activities and when, which component has been wired and / or connected with cables, whether the assembly step has been completed, which port / which interface point is used, whether there are unconnected cables and what are the properties of the unconnected cables (such as length, environmental parameters (such as temperature, air humidity, acceleration, emissions), current project status, protection level (such as IP67)), and the user (especially the worker) can also enter the reason for the plan deviation when a plan deviation occurs. The installation document record can be stored in a database, for example. The user can trigger the record by physical operation (key, screen operation, double-click) as appropriate.

[0140] Furthermore, an evaluation unit can be provided which evaluates the recorded information (preferably the processing duration of the user in the individual work steps). For this purpose, artificial intelligence methods can also be used, for example to optimize the results of the evaluation unit. The results show the user optimization potential in order to design the machine more efficiently in the future, optimize components or component groups and improve the assembly and disassembly processes. In addition, comments in the event of deviations from the plan are taken into account.

[0141] Here, documentation can also be used with components that are not preconfigured or connected to the SPS. This avoids errors that could otherwise occur due to the use of modules that look identical but have different configurations. Due to the communication capabilities of these components and the integration of all relevant information, the system can also be used to guide users in the installation of automation technology. The systematic collection and documentation of all relevant information, such as components used, installation and maintenance tasks performed or problem situations that have occurred, also ensures that reliable knowledge of the current system status is obtained. The automatic collection and distribution of this information significantly speeds up the process and relieves the human installer from the task of documentation. The risk of missing and / or incorrect documentation can be significantly reduced by the automatic collection and storage of the information that needs to be documented.

[0142] exist Figure 4 , a more detailed visualization of the method 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided. The user can first Figure 3301. For this purpose, the user can use a graphical user interface 32 provided by the computer 31. Likewise, a project selection 302 can be performed via the user interface 32, by which, for example, the installation specification 200 is loaded for the desired project. In this way, it is possible to start 303 to guide the user to install the machine 1 via at least one installation instruction.

[0143] Optionally, after starting 303, the last performed step, for example the last installation instruction and / or other installation instructions, can first be displayed 304. First, the user can identify 305 the component 4, for which the user, for example, uses a detection device 22 (such as a handheld scanner) to scan the identification medium 12 on the component 4. Then, the identifier 11 can be determined based on the scanned identification medium 12 and transmitted to the computer 31 and / or the device 30 for data processing. Then, based on the received identifier 11 and the installation specification 200, the installation position of the component 4 can be identified, to which the component 4 should be connected. For this purpose, the installation specification 200, for example, includes an electrical connection diagram 200, in which different components 4 are associated with installation positions. Then, the user can be informed by the installation instructions, which components 4 are identified for which installation position or installation positions in the installation specification 200. For this purpose, the installation suggestion is displayed in a visual manner in the connection diagram 200. Subsequently, the user can establish a connection 306 between the component 4 and the bus system. According to the installation specification 200, the correct assembly can be confirmed 307. The correct assembly can then optionally be documented 308 at least partially automatically and the completion of the work steps can be recorded 309 in the installation specification 200. This can be achieved, for example, by displaying 310 in the machine overview in the form of a green check mark or, for example, by displaying the affected connections in the electrical circuit diagram and showing them to the user via the user interface 32. The components can then be identified again 312. By guiding the user (in particular a worker) in the installation of the electrical automation technology and by automatically checking whether the appropriate components are correctly connected, an error-free construction of the system to be installed can be ensured.

[0144] After this, the user can establish a connection between the component and the mounting element and then with the device (e.g. actuator and / or hub and / or sensor) (not shown). The correct assembly can then be documented at least partially automatically, if appropriate, and the completion of the work steps can be recorded in the installation specification 200. This can be achieved, for example, by displaying it in the form of a green check mark in the machine overview or, for example, by displaying the affected connections in the electrical circuit diagram and showing it to the user via the user interface 32. These work steps correspond in principle to work steps 307 to 311.

[0145] The system 2 according to the embodiment of the present invention may also have at least one information interface so as to be able to provide the method steps of the method 100. The at least one information interface may include at least one of the following information interfaces for transmitting information:

[0146] - between the system 2 and users (in particular workers and / or planners and / or programmers), for example for transmitting work instructions and / or project statuses and / or for optimizing planning;

[0147] - between a user and the system 2, for example for transmitting confirmation of a performed work step and / or comments on a performed work step;

[0148] - between system 2 and component 4;

[0149] - between a system 2 via a component 4 and one or more devices 5 (such as actuators and / or sensors);

[0150] - Between the system 2 via the component 4 and the hub 6.

[0151] The transmission of information can be performed as a two-way information transmission between the system 2 and the component 4. This can be done in the case where the individual components 4 are not connected to the control system (programmable logic controller 8) of the machine 1 and / or are not preconfigured for their future tasks in the machine 1.

[0152] In another example of installing a machine, after the user logs in 301, the user uses a scanner 22 as a reading device 22 to scan or collect an identifier 11 of a component 4. The identifier 11 includes, for example, a serial number and / or a product number 11 of the component 4. Based on the identifier 11 or the serial number and / or the product number 11, an installation location 201 is assigned and selected in the installation specification 200 (for example, in the connection diagram 200). The selected installation location 201 may correspond to the installation location 201 to which the corresponding serial number and / or product number is assigned by the planner in the installation planning stage. In other words, after receiving the identifier 11, it is analyzed whether there is a serial number and / or a product number matching the scanned identifier 11 at one or more installation locations 201 in the installation specification 200. If there is a matching serial number and / or product number, the installation location or multiple selected installation locations 201 are output to the user as an installation suggestion. Now, the user can connect the component 4 to the selected installation location 201 or the installation location selected from the multiple installation locations 201 according to the installation suggestion. Subsequently, serial numbers and / or MAC addresses are assigned to components 4, 5, 6 and recorded and stored in the connection diagram. In this way, the connected components 4 are clearly assigned to the installation locations 201.

[0153] Furthermore, there is the possibility of assigning a name, an application-specific label or other identification to the components 4, 5, 6 (in particular the connection module 4, the hub 6 or the sensor 5 and / or the actuator 5, in particular the IO-Link device). After the connection of the component 4, the user can now also access the technical properties of the connected component 4. For example, a stored product database makes this access possible, which is communicatively connected to the installation specification 200 via an interface, wherein the product database contains products and their respective technical properties and can provide this information via the interface. In the product database, the products can be listed according to the serial number and / or product number (for example the serial number and / or product number of different components 4 and / or installation elements 10). Thus, the user can access the technical properties of the component based on the assignment of the serial number and / or product number of the component to the installation location 201. Optionally, it is provided that the technical properties can be assigned to the installation element 10 or the cable 10 as an identifier 11 (for example as a machine-readable code) afterwards. This assignment can be done by setting or applying the identifier on the installation element.

[0154] In another example, the user can scan the identifier 11 of the component 4 in order to display its technical properties. He can then start the system 2 to search for an installation element or device in the product database, which at least partially meets the technical properties or requirements, and then output installation information about this. In addition, the user can also choose to read the identifier of the component 4 or the installation element. By comparing the technical properties displayed by the component 4 and the installation location 201, installation information can then be output, which shows the user whether the scanned component 4 is technically suitable for the installation location 201, and / or whether it at least partially meets the technical requirements, and / or whether it meets the technical properties required by the installation location 201. For example, when an installation element or device (such as an actuator and / or a sensor) is to be connected to the component 4, the connection of the installation element to the component 4 can be achieved based on the comparison of the technical information of the component 4 and the installation element or device.

[0155] After the user has logged in 301, the user can use the graphical user interface 32 to call up the installation specification 200 (in particular the connection diagram 200) to check one or more tasks that the user has performed. This can be done, for example, after the machine has been installed, during maintenance and / or inspection. The user can use the scanner 22 or the camera 22 as appropriate to read the identifier 11 of the component 4. Technical information about the component 4, such as the serial number and / or the MAC address, can then be displayed to the user. In addition, based on the read identifier, the technical properties of the component 4 installed on the machine can be displayed.

[0156] It is also possible that the above steps are at least partially performed remotely or telecontrol by a computer connected to the machine 1. The user can then now read the identifier 11 of the mounting element 10 connected to the component 4, whereupon the technical properties of the mounting element 10 connected to the component 4 will be displayed on the computer 32. Now, for example, the system 2 can compare and check or verify the respective technical properties of the component 4 and the connected mounting element 10 to see whether these properties are consistent or whether there are deviations in one or more technical properties. This makes it easy to check possible installation errors within the framework of quality assurance and enables the user to arrange for corrections to the installation through the system 2. The user can then, for example, record and store an identification and installation information as a reminder of the selected installation location. In addition, he can create corresponding installation instructions (e.g. a correction task to eliminate installation errors), which another user can perform after the check, for example.

[0157] Although some aspects have been described in conjunction with devices, it is clear that these aspects also represent a description of the corresponding method, in which an element or device corresponds to a method step or a feature of a method step. Similarly, aspects described in conjunction with method steps also represent a description of corresponding modules or elements or features of corresponding devices.

[0158] Embodiments of the present invention can be implemented on a computer system. The computer system can be a local computer device (e.g., a personal computer, a laptop, a tablet computer, or a mobile phone) having one or more processors and one or more storage devices, or a distributed computer system (e.g., a cloud computing system having one or more processors and one or more storage devices, which are distributed in different locations, such as a local client and / or one or more remote server farms and / or data centers). The computer system may include any circuit or circuit combination. In one embodiment, the computer system may include one or more processors of any type. The term "processor" used herein may refer to any type of computing circuit, such as a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a graphics processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a multi-core processor, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or any other type of processor or processing circuit. Other types of circuits that may be included in a computer system may be custom circuits, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or similar circuits, such as one or more circuits (e.g., communication circuits) for wireless devices such as mobile phones, tablet computers, laptops, two-way radios, and similar electronic systems. The computer system may include one or more storage devices, which may include one or more storage elements suitable for the respective application, such as a main memory in the form of a random access memory (RAM), one or more hard disks and / or one or more drives for handling removable data carriers such as compact disks (CDs), flash memory cards, digital video disks (DVDs), etc. The computer system may also include a display device, one or more speakers and a keyboard and / or a control device, which may include a mouse, trackball, touch screen, voice recognition device or other device that enables a system user to input information to the computer system and receive information from the computer system.

[0159] Some or all of the method steps may be performed by a hardware device (or using such a device), such as a processor, a microprocessor, a programmable computer or an electronic circuit. In some embodiments, some or more important method steps may be performed by such a device.

[0160] Embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in hardware or software, depending on specific implementation requirements. It may be implemented using a non-transmittable storage medium (e.g., a digital storage medium, such as a floppy disk, DVD, Blu-ray disc, CD, read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory) on which electronically readable control signals that interact (or are capable of interacting) with a programmable computer system are stored in order to perform the corresponding method. Therefore, the digital storage medium may be computer readable.

[0161] Some embodiments of the invention comprise a data carrier having electronically readable control signals stored thereon, which are capable of cooperating with a programmable computer system, such that the system performs one of the methods described herein.

[0162] Generally speaking, embodiments of the present invention can be realized as a computer program product with a program code, when the computer program product runs on a computer, the program code is used to perform one of the methods described herein.For example, the program code can be stored on a machine readable carrier.

[0163] Other embodiments comprise the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein, stored on a machine readable carrier.

[0164] In other words, therefore, one embodiment of the present invention is a computer program, the program code of which is configured to perform one of the methods described herein, when the computer program runs on a computer.

[0165] Therefore, another embodiment of the present invention is a storage medium (or data carrier or computer-readable medium), when executed by a processor, the computer program stored thereon is used to perform one of the methods described herein. The data carrier, the digital storage medium or the recorded medium is generally tangible and / or non-transferable. Another embodiment of the present invention is a device having a processor and a storage medium as described herein.

[0166] Therefore, another embodiment of the invention is a data stream or a sequence of signals representing the computer program for executing one of the methods described herein. The data stream or signal sequence can be designed, for example, to be transmittable via a data communication connection (eg via the Internet).

[0167] Another embodiment comprises a processing means, for example a computer or a programmable logic device, configured or adapted to perform one of the methods described herein.

[0168] A further embodiment comprises a computer on which the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein is installed.

[0169] Another embodiment of the present invention includes a device or system configured to transmit a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein to a recipient (e.g., electronically or optically). The recipient may, for example, be a computer, a mobile device, a storage device, or the like. The device or system may, for example, include a file server for transmitting the computer program to the recipient.

[0170] In some embodiments, a programmable logic device (e.g., field programmable gate array) can be used to perform some or all functions of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, a field programmable gate array can collaborate with a microprocessor to perform one of the methods described herein. In general, these methods are preferably performed by any hardware device.

[0171] Reference numerals list

[0172] 1. Machinery and equipment

[0173] 2 System

[0174] 3 Main Module

[0175] 4 Components, connection modules, modules, switches

[0176] 5 Devices, Sensors, and Actuators

[0177] 6 Hub

[0178] 8 Control device, SPS

[0179] 9 Control cabinet

[0180] 10. Install components

[0181] 11 Identifiers

[0182] 12 Identification media, machine-readable code

[0183] 13 Power Supply

[0184] 20 Computer Programs

[0185] 21 bus system

[0186] 22Testing equipment

[0187] 30 devices

[0188] 31 Computer

[0189] 32 User Interface

[0190] 33 Data storage

[0191] 41 Display components

[0192] 42 interface points, sockets

[0193] 100 Methods

[0194] 101 First Method Steps

[0195] 102 Second Method Step

[0196] 103The third method step

[0197] 104The fourth method step

[0198] 200 Installation Specifications

[0199] 201 Installation Location

[0200] 301 User Login

[0201] 302 Project Selection

[0202] 303 Guidance Start

[0203] 304 shows the last step executed

[0204] 305 Identification of components (especially connection modules)

[0205] 306 Establishing a connection between components and bus systems

[0206] 307 Confirm correct assembly

[0207] 308 Documentation of Proper Assembly

[0208] 309 Documentation of completed work steps

[0209] 310 Machine Overview Display

[0210] Identification of 311 Components

Claims

1. A method (100) for computer-aided installation of spatially dispersed components (4) of a machine (1), in particular a device (1), comprising: receiving ( 101 ) an identifier ( 11 ) of a component ( 4 ), preferably an identifier of a connection module ( 4 ) or a cable ( 10 ) or a plug connector or another component, such as a sensor or an actuator; Providing (102) an installation specification (200), the installation specification defining an assignment relationship between the component (4) and one or more installation locations (201) of the machine (1); Based on the provided installation specification (200) and the received identifier (11), identifying (103) at least one installation suggestion for installing the component (4), wherein the installation location (201) or the plurality of installation locations (201) are selected based on an evaluation, wherein in particular only some of the installation locations (201) are selected, wherein the selected installation location (201) or the selected plurality of installation locations (201) are specified by the at least one installation suggestion; and Based on the at least one identified installation suggestion, outputting (104) at least one piece of installation information is initiated.

2. The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one piece of installation information comprises installation instructions for supporting a user during the installation process, wherein preferably, initiating (104) the output comprises at least one of the following steps: Initiating display of at least one selected installation location (201) of the component (4) on a user interface (32) of a computer (31), wherein the user interface (32) visualizes a digital twin of at least a portion of the machine (1) and preferably visualizes a topology and / or a mechanical and / or electrical connection diagram of the portion of the machine (1); Initiating display of at least one selected installation position (201) of the component (4) by augmented reality; Initiating output of the installation instruction as an instruction to instruct the user to select a desired installation location (201) from a list of a plurality of selected installation locations (201) for installation and / or to install the component (4) at a preferred desired installation location (201); Initiating an audible output, in particular a speech output, of the installation instructions; Initiating a graphical display of the installation instructions, preferably in a graphical user interface, preferably in connection with a visualization of the machine (1); A graphical display of a list of a plurality of selected installation locations (201) is initiated based on the installation suggestion.

3. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The at least one piece of installation information is used for computer-aided installation at least in that the installation information comprises a description of the at least one installation position (201) at which a connection of the component (4) to another component (4) and / or to an installation element (10), such as a cable, is possible, wherein the method (100) comprises the following further steps: Determine the connection status of the component (4) to determine whether the connection has been established, wherein preferably, determining the connection status comprises: receiving an installation message based on input from the user and / or from the component (4), The received installation message indicates that the connection of the component (4) has been established.

4. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The method (100) comprises the following further steps: Based on the received identifier (11) and the installation specification (200), the selected installation location (201) of the component (4) is verified, in particular in order to determine whether the user has correctly executed the installation information in the form of installation instructions for the selected installation location (201), wherein preferably a mark of the installation specification (200) is stored in dependence on the verification, and particularly preferably the following steps are performed in the event of a positive verification: storing a label of the installation location (201) in the installation specification (200) as a correctly selected installation location (201); Advantageously, in the case where the verification is negative, at least one of the following steps is performed: Preferably, based on the installation parameters recorded by the user, in particular the reason or justification for the change, a marking of the installation location (201) is stored in the installation specification (200) as a changed selected installation location (201), wherein preferably a description of the reason or justification for the change is also stored; and preferably: A correction of the selected installation location (201) is initiated according to the installation specification (200).

5. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The at least one piece of installation information comprises installation instructions for supporting a user when reassembling the machine (1), wherein preferably initiating the output comprises at least the following steps: Outputting an installation sequence for installing the machine (1) is initiated by the at least one installation information.

6. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The installation information comprises an installation configuration and / or installation documentation, preferably for disassembly and / or reassembly of the machine (1), which is stored in a data memory (33) and / or transmitted to the component (4).

7. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Identifying (103) the at least one installation suggestion comprises the following steps: determining at least one technical property of the component (4) based on the received identifier (11); Determining at least one technical requirement of the at least one installation location (201) for the component (4) based on the provided installation specification (200), wherein the requirement is preferably a requirement for the installation, preferably the connection, of the component (4) at the at least one installation location (201); performing an evaluation, during which a comparison is made as to whether, for the corresponding installation position (201), the at least one technical property of the component (4) meets the at least one technical requirement; The installation location or locations that are determined to meet the requirements are selected (201).

8. The method (100) according to claim 7, wherein: Set up the following steps: Selecting and determining the installation location or locations (201) that only partially meet the requirements, wherein installation instructions are generated with operating and / or prompting instructions in order to nevertheless install the component (4) at the installation location (201); and / or A ranked list of selected installation locations (201) is determined based on the comparison.

9. The method (100) according to claims 7 and 8, wherein: Determining the at least one technical attribute of the component (4) further comprises: Reading said technical attributes from a database; and / or Wherein, determining the at least one technical requirement comprises: Determining in the installation specification (200) a marking, preferably a product number in a circuit diagram, wherein the marking is associated with a predetermined technical property; Reading the predetermined technical attribute from a database according to the mark to determine the technical requirement; The method (100) comprises at least one of the following further steps: generating another identifier for the component (4) to mark that the specific component (4) has been installed at the installation location (201); The installation specification (200) is extended with the identifier (11) and / or other specifications of the component (4), preferably a network address, such as an IP address and / or a MAC address and / or an application-specific tag and / or a serial number, which are preferably assigned to an installation location (201) selected by the user for installing the component (4).

10. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Receiving at least one of the following specifications, preferably via the installation message, in order to create a digital twin of the component (4) based on the received identifier (11) and the selected installation location (201): component type, machine type, device type, user, name, first name, site name, timestamp such as date and time, installation duration, address in the bus system (21), IO-Link application-specific tag, operating medium identification, port assignment, port configuration, temperature, air humidity, acceleration, emissions, current project status at the time of installation, plan deviations and / or reasons.

11. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The component (4) is configured according to the identifier (11) so as to convert the component (4) from a basic configuration state into a state with an extended configuration so as to be functionally driven by a control device (8). In the basic configuration state, the component (4) is preferably configured to perform bidirectional communication via a bus system (21) and / or an IO-Link system (21), and / or to exclude functional driving by the control device (8), preferably an SPS (8).

12. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The identifier (11) comprises an identification, in particular a product number of the connection module (4), and / or a type of the component (4) and / or at least one technical property of the component (4).

13. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The evaluation for selecting the at least one installation location (201) comprises the following further method steps: simulating the technical properties of the component (4) for at least one selected installation location (201) to take into account its influence on the functions specified in the installation specification (200), thereby providing simulation results on the suitability and / or functional capabilities of the component (4) for the selected installation location (201); Wherein, starting to output at least one installation information comprises the following steps: Outputting an operation suggestion as a suggestion provided to the user is initiated, namely installing a replacement component (4) at at least one selected installation location (201) based on the result of the simulation.

14. A computer program (20) comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer (30), cause the computer (30) to perform the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. An apparatus (30) for data processing, comprising means for performing the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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