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

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (100) for computer-aided installation of spatially distributed electrical components (4) of a machine (1), in particular of a device (1), comprising: receiving (101) an identifier (11) of an installation element (10), preferably a cable or a component; providing (102) a mounting specification (200) that specifies a distribution relationship in which the mounting element (10) is connected to the electrical component (4), preferably in the form of a connection module (4) for connection to the mounting element (10) and to other mounting elements (10); identifying (103) the electrical component (4) based on the provided installation specification (200); and initiating (104) an output of at least one piece of installation information based on the received identifier (11) and the identified component (4).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of planning and installation of machines such as automation systems and in particular to the computer-aided installation of spatially distributed electrical components of machines. Background Art

[0002] The complexity and diversity of automation systems that need to be developed, planned, installed, maintained and repaired are constantly increasing. It is becoming increasingly important to provide efficient and effective support to the installer or planner through comprehensive and, most importantly, complete documentation in all phases of the life cycle of such a system, such as the development / planning, production, commissioning, operation and maintenance phases. However, the documentation available in practice (e.g. in the form of circuit diagrams) does not always meet this requirement, as poorly coordinated workflows or the use of poorly coordinated documentation tools mean that installation activities are not adequately or completely documented. These known situations inevitably lead to documentation gaps in the system documentation, which makes reliable maintenance or repair of the system more difficult or, in the worst case, impossible at all.

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

[0004] The above mentioned problems are solved 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 can be seen from the respective dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0005] The object of the invention is in particular a method for computer-aided (in particular electrical) installation of spatially distributed and / or electrical components of a machine, in particular a system, preferably an electrotechnical system.

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

[0007] -Automation equipment,

[0008] - production equipment,

[0009] -Logistics equipment,

[0010] - production line,

[0011] - machining centers,

[0012] - industrial robots,

[0013] - manufacturing equipment,

[0014] -unit,

[0015] -Electrical installations.

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

[0017] The electrical components may be connection modules which enable a decentralized and modular connection of installation elements. Decentralized may refer to the fact that the connection modules at least partially replace the central control cabinet, since they only provide some connections for the machine, but enable these connections to be made decentralized on site. In the case of central topologies, such as centralized control cabinet concepts, in particular point-to-point connections are provided, i.e. the starting point, connection point and end point are clearly defined. In decentralized applications, by contrast, it is possible and often even necessary to arrange or connect several components between the starting point and the end point. This may be referred to, for example, as a module-to-module or module-to-hub connection. In principle, the following components may be provided in a machine, for example: devices such as actuators and / or sensors, connection modules, installation elements (e.g. for wiring).

[0018] 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:

[0019] - receiving an identifier, in particular a digital identifier, of an installation element, preferably a cable or a component, which identifier is preferably received by a detection device which has previously read a physically present identification medium, such as a machine-readable code, and which has generated the identifier based on the read identification medium;

[0020] - providing installation specifications, in particular digital installation specifications, which specify the assignment of installation elements to connections of electrical components, preferably in the form of connection modules for connection to the installation elements and other installation elements;

[0021] - identifying the electrical component based on the provided installation specifications, preferably by using the identifier to query the electrical component from the installation specifications, preferably from a list and / or a database of installation specifications;

[0022] - Initiating output of at least one piece of installation information based on the received identifier and the identified component, wherein preferably the output comprises a visual and / or audible output to a user.

[0023] The method thus enables a simpler, faster and error-free assignment of mounting elements to components, which can significantly assist the user in the installation of the machine and simplify the process. In addition, in this way, a support system for mounting, in particular wiring, can be provided spatially directly at the identified components to guide the user in positioning, wherein the device for data processing can 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 so that installation information can be output. For this purpose, the device for data processing can have at least one interface for communication.

[0024] The user may be, for example, an installer and / or an equipment mechanic and / or an electrician and / or a worker and / or a planner and / or a mechanical designer or developer and / or an electrical designer or developer and / or an SPS programmer and / or a commissioning engineer and / or a maintenance engineer and / or a machine operator. The user may use the method according to the invention by providing it with a computer. To this end, the 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.

[0025] In addition, multiple users can use the method according to the present invention simultaneously or at least partially simultaneously. Therefore, the steps of the method according to the present invention can also be performed multiple times and / or at least partially in parallel. For example, for at least two, at least three or at least four users, these steps are at least partially performed simultaneously.

[0026] A plurality of mounting elements can be provided for the installation of a machine. These mounting elements can each be assigned an identifier by which the mounting element can be uniquely identified. Thus, the identifier can be information that can be digitally processed, for example. Each mounting element can contain the identifier because a physical identification medium is provided and / or attached to the mounting element. The mounting element can be, for example, a cable or a component as a functional component of the machine. The identifier advantageously includes a unique, in particular unambiguous identification. This makes it possible to uniquely identify the mounting element using the identifier in conjunction with the machine and / or other machines and / or the installation of the machine. One or more information items about the mounting element can be assigned to the identifier. The at least one information item can include at least one of the following: at least one status information, the installation information sent, the identifier of the identified component, at least one of the document specifications described in more detail below (e.g. component type, machine type, system type, user, connection point name, timestamp date and time, installation duration, address in the bus system, device identification, cable length, port allocation, properties of unterminated cables, temperature, humidity, current project status during installation, deviations from the plan and reasons). The digital storage of at least one item of information associated with the identifier thus makes it possible to create a digital twin of the installation element. In this way, a passive intelligence of the installation element can be achieved.

[0027] Intelligence refers in particular to adding intelligent properties to industrial products such as components and / or parts and / or installation elements (e.g. cables). Information technology can be used to enable components to process data and provide additional added value. Passive intelligence can be implemented as a corresponding preliminary stage through passive intelligent components such as NFC chips (near field communication, NFC for short) and / or machine-readable codes. In this way, a basis can be created for automatic recording or for changes in machine functions and their effects. A unique, preferably unambiguous identification combined with access to external databases can achieve active enrichment of information and thus passive intelligence.

[0028] In particular, devices of the machine, such as actuators and / or sensors, are operated, i.e. preferably controlled and / or read, via the mounted elements. A control device, such as an SPS, can be provided to operate these devices, which can electrically operate the devices via the mounted elements and components. To this end, the control device can be electrically connected to these components.

[0029] Preferably, the mounting element may comprise a cable and / or a component, wherein the cable may have at least one or exactly one plug connector and is preferably assembled on one side, i.e. one side has a female or male plug and the other side is open ended. Alternatively, the cable may also be assembled on both sides, i.e. each side of the cable has a female or male connector.

[0030] At least one installation information may also include installation instructions to assist users such as workers and / or installers in the installation. The installation instructions may also include instructions for the installation, such as step-by-step instructions.

[0031] Initiating output may include at least one of the following steps:

[0032] - activating a display element (e.g. a light-emitting diode) on the electrical component in order to indicate by means of the display element a connection point, in particular a socket, of a mounting element to be connected, wherein the display element preferably illuminates after activation;

[0033] - indicating connection points, in particular slots, on the electrical component for mounting the element 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 the mechanical and / or electrical structure of this part of the machine;

[0034] - Use augmented reality to indicate connection points on electrical components, particularly slots, for mounting components;

[0035] - starting output of installation instructions as instructions for the user to connect the installation element to a specific connection point of the electrical component, the connection point preferably being determined according to the installation instructions;

[0036] - Enables auditory output of installation instructions, in particular voice output.

[0037] This enables the user to directly understand how the mounting element should be installed through the installation instructions. For example, the connection point on the component to which the mounting element is to be connected can be indicated by the illumination of the display element. In addition, the illumination of the display element can respectively indicate whether the assignment of the connection point is correct. For this purpose, the component can have a plurality of display elements, which are assigned to the corresponding connection points of the component by being arranged adjacently on the connecting element, etc. It is conceivable that each connection point on the component is assigned a display element, which is attached to the component, for example, in the vicinity of the corresponding connection point.

[0038] For example, the received identifier can be used to query the connection points, in particular the connection ports, set according to the installation specification for the connection of the installation element with the received identifier. To this end, the installation specification can support electronic queries, for example, by means of a database and / or a list. In the context of the present invention, the installation specification can be provided, for example, in digital form as an installation overview of the components dispersedly arranged on the system. Based on the installation specification, one or more corresponding installation instructions can be derived therefrom before, during or after assembly, disassembly or modification. The installation specification can be stored in a non-volatile data memory so that it can be accessed for computer-aided installation and the installation instructions can be obtained. It can also be accessed via a network.

[0039] The indication of the connection points on the user interface may, for example, include a graphical representation of the component connection points, wherein the connection points for connecting the mounting element having the received identifier are graphically highlighted.

[0040] The user interface may be a graphical user interface displayed on a screen, preferably displayed on a computer. The computer may be, for example, a portable computer, such as a laptop or a tablet computer.

[0041] Indication by augmented reality technology (English: Augmented Reality) can be achieved, for example, by the user using virtual reality (VR) glasses to indicate additional information and / or by recording the user's surroundings by a camera and processing the camera image to include additional information in the camera image. The additional information includes, for example, highlighting the physical connection point of the component when the connection point is visible in the camera image.

[0042] In addition, an auditory output may be provided, for example including activation of a speaker. The auditory output may be, for example, a voice output that speaks the connection point connection name.

[0043] It may be advantageous within the scope of the invention if the method comprises the further step of determining the connection state between the mounting element and the electrical component in order to determine whether the connection has been established. For this purpose, for example, an electrical connection test may be performed, by means of which it can be automatically determined whether there is an electrically conductive connection between the mounting element and the electrical component. Depending on the design, the circuit may not be closed immediately during the connection process, in particular if the installation has not yet been completed. Therefore, additional or alternative options for determining the connection state may also be provided.

[0044] Therefore, determining the connection status may also include receiving an installation message based on input from a user and / or from the electrical component. The received installation message may indicate that the connection of the installation element to the electrical component, preferably the connection to the indicated connection point of the electrical component has been established. Therefore, it can be checked whether the indicated connection point is actually connected to the installation element. It is possible to trigger the recording by establishing the connection, for example by manual confirmation by the user and / or by automatic confirmation of establishing the connection if, for example, both sides of the cable are connected. The recording, for example, includes an installation record as described in more detail below. The recording may be performed repeatedly, for example, each time an activity is confirmed, so as to gradually establish an installation record. In order to make the installation instructions visible to the user in the machine and to be able to record the work performed on the components in the system, it is advantageous that the system of the present invention and preferably the device can communicate with the components. After installation and / or recording, the control device can be optionally programmed and / or the components can be configured according to the recording. Due to this situation, the component may not know in advance what tasks it must perform in the future machine. This may also be referred to as "unconfigured".

[0045] Within the scope of the present invention, further advantages can be achieved if the method comprises the following further steps:

[0046] - verifying the connections, preferably the connected connection points, using installation specifications (preferably a predetermined digital circuit diagram, in particular an electrical connection diagram), in particular in order to determine whether the user has correctly carried out the installation information in the form of installation instructions, wherein preferably a label of the installation specifications is stored in dependence on said verification, and particularly preferably in the case of a positive verification, the subsequent steps are performed:

[0047] - In the installation specification, store the label of the connection point as the connection point that is correctly connected.

[0048] Advantageously, the verification can be performed based on determining the connection status. The verification thus makes it possible to assess whether the user has correctly followed the installation instructions. The verification can be used to store a tag in the installation specification. This means that the installation specification can be used later to check whether the installation specification has been followed and / or to what extent it has deviated from the installation specification during the installation process.

[0049] If the user deviates from the installation instructions, this is usually for a relevant reason or justification. Therefore, the user may be provided with the option of inputting installation parameters, for example via a user interface and / or an input device such as voice input and / or a keyboard and / or a mouse and / or a touch screen. Advantageously, in the event of a negative verification, i.e. if the user has not correctly carried out the installation instructions, at least one of the following steps may be performed: in the installation specification, an identification of the connection point is stored as a changed connection point, preferably based on the installation parameters recorded by the user, in particular the reason or justification for the change, wherein preferably also an indication of the reason or justification for the change is stored, and preferably: a correction of the connection is initiated according to the installation specification. If the new connection is reasonable and therefore makes a useful contribution to the desired installation, the correction may, for example, include an adjustment to the installation specification.

[0050] Optionally, it may also be provided that the method comprises the following further step, wherein this step is preferably performed during the verification of the connection:

[0051] - With respect to the complete establishment of the connection, in particular an appropriate threaded connection and / or power supply and / or data connection and / or contact, a verification (in particular a verified) connection is preferably carried out by means of measured variables transmitted by an external test device, in particular a sensor or a test tool, in order to determine whether the user complies with predetermined measured variables.

[0052] This makes it possible to ensure that, depending on the installation environment, the corresponding valid or necessary requirements for the materials or connections used are guaranteed. Furthermore, this has the advantage that safety risks are significantly reduced during machine installation. The specified measured variable can be a reference value, which is compared with the measured variable transmitted as the current measured value. If the transmitted measured variable meets a predetermined condition, for example exceeds the reference value, the establishment of the connection can be considered correct and / or complete.

[0053] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least one installation information includes installation instructions for assisting the user in modifying the machine, wherein preferably initiating the output includes at least the following steps: initiating the output of the installation sequence by means of the at least one installation information for the installation of the machine. The installation information can, for example, include installation instructions that also indicate the installation sequence. This simplifies the installation process for the user and speeds up the installation, since at least partly a time-consuming interpretation of circuit diagrams, in particular connection diagrams, is no longer necessary.

[0054] According to an advantageous further 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. For example, the output can be triggered by transmitting a specific message, preferably a command, to the component via the communication. For this purpose, for example, a computer program can be executed by a device for data processing, wherein the device for data processing is connected to the bus system.

[0055] 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 identifiers and the identified components: component type, machine type, device type, user, connection point identifier, timestamp date and time, installation duration, address in the bus system, device identifier, cable length, port assignment, unterminated cable characteristics, temperature, humidity, current project status at the time of installation, deviations from the plan and reasons. In the context of the invention, this at least one specification can also be referred to as a document specification.

[0056] For example, the installation message may be generated based on an input by a user, wherein the user may have indicated the at least one specification in the input. The specification may also be determined automatically, for example by the component and / or the device for data processing, in particular based on the received identifier. For this purpose, for example, the at least one specification may be stored in the component and / or the installation element.

[0057] In another possible case, it can be provided that the installation information comprises an installation configuration and / or an installation document, preferably for disassembly and / or reassembly of the machine, which is stored for documentation, preferably in a data memory and / or transmitted to the electrical component. The data memory can be designed as a non-volatile data memory, so that the installation configuration and / or the installation document can be reliably evaluated later. The installation configuration and / or the installation document can, for example, include an identification based on the verification storage.

[0058] Further advantages can be achieved within the scope of the invention if the installation information includes a unique tag that marks the installation element and / or the identified component, wherein the installation information is stored in an installation specification, in particular in a digital build plan, preferably including ECAD data and / or MCAD data, and / or wherein the installation element is selected from a plurality of similar installation elements and / or the identified component is selected from a plurality of similar components based on an identifier. Thus, the installation specification makes it possible to query the assignment relationship between the installation element and the component using the tag and / or the identifier. To this end, the installation specification can include links between the tags and / or with the identifier. The identifier can optionally be uniquely assigned to one of the tags of the installation element, and / or the identifier can correspond to the tag.

[0059] Further advantages can be achieved within the scope of the invention if the installation specifications comprise predefined specifications for a modular and / or decentralized structure of a machine, in particular a system, preferably based on predefined ECAD data and / or MCAD data, in particular interconnecting the installation elements in the form of cables and / or components by means of components in the form of connecting modules, preferably comprising an electrical connection diagram, and the installation specifications are preferably determined by linking the ECAD data and the MCAD data. Thus, the installation specifications can comprise a digital circuit diagram of the machine and / or a construction plan and / or an installation plan.

[0060] It is also conceivable within the scope of the present invention that components are configured using identifiers in order to convert the components from a basic configuration state, in which the configuration of bidirectional communication of the components via a bus system and / or functional control by a control device (preferably an SPS) is preferably excluded, into an extended configuration state, in which functional control by a control device (preferably an SPS) is possible.

[0061] The received identifier enables identification of which mounting element has been (or will be) connected to the component. This identification can be used to automatically perform the configuration of the component required for the installation, which significantly reduces the configuration effort for the component during the installation process. For example, the received identifier and the installation specification are used to determine which components have been (or will be) connected to the mounting element. Thus, the component can be configured for the mounting element so that the control device knows that the mounting element is connected to the component for subsequent function activation by the control device. This enables the control device, for example, to operate at least one device of the machine, such as an actuator and / or a sensor, via the component and / or the mounting element.

[0062] Another object of the invention is a system for computer-aided installation of spatially dispersed electrical components of a machine, comprising a detection device, in particular a scanner such as a handheld scanner or a camera, for providing an identifier of an installation element, preferably a cable or a component, and at least one electrical component, preferably in the form of a connection module for connection to the installation element and to other installation elements, and a device for data processing, the device for data processing comprising means for carrying out the steps of the method according to the invention. The system according to the invention thus has the same advantages as described in detail with reference to the method according to the invention.

[0063] Optionally, the computer-aided installation can be performed in such a way that the installation is supported by a system, in particular a system according to the invention, and / or at least one device for data processing, in particular a device for data processing according to the invention, such as at least one computer. To this end, the system and / or the at least one device can be adapted to at least partially perform the steps of the method according to the invention.

[0064] Furthermore, "computer-assisted" can preferably mean that the installation of components in the form of actual installation, in particular in the form of actual electrical components, is supported by a (in particular above-mentioned) system and / or by at least one (in particular above-mentioned) device, such as at least one computer, wherein the steps of the method according to the invention are preferably at least partially performed in preparation for the (actual) installation and / or accompanying the (actual) installation. Then, for example, installation information and / or installation instructions can be provided to the installer for further installation, for example by means of output, in particular by means of a screen and / or voice output and / or by means of augmented reality technology.

[0065] Furthermore, a device for data processing, comprising means for performing the steps of the method according to the invention, may also be an object of the invention. The device may be adapted to communicate with components, in particular modules, of a machine, in particular a device, in particular when the module is not preconfigured and / or connected to a control device.

[0066] Furthermore, provision can be made for the identifier to be encoded in a machine-readable code which is assigned to the mounting element (in particular arranged on the mounting element) and which can be machine-readable by a detection device.

[0067] Furthermore, the components and the computer and / or the control device can each be connected to one another via a bus system for bidirectional communication, wherein the bidirectional communication is provided based on a communication protocol for field bus systems, in particular based on the ProfiNet standard, the Ethernet / IP standard, the EtherCAT standard or the 802.3 standard, and / or based on standards in accordance with IEEE 802.11 or on mobile telecommunication standards, in a wired manner via the bus system or wirelessly via Bluetooth or WLAN.

[0068] Another object of the invention is a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer (e.g. a device for data processing according to the invention), cause the computer to perform the steps of the method according to the invention. The computer program according to the invention therefore has the same advantages as described in detail with reference to the method according to the invention.

[0069] A plurality of users can 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 below as multi-user application.

[0070] Another object of the invention may also be a further method for computer-aided installation of spatially distributed electrical components of a machine, wherein the installation is performed simultaneously and / or at least partially simultaneously by at least two users.

[0071] With regard to the method according to the invention, in particular in multi-user applications and / or in further methods, a handover between different users can be provided. In order to enable a handover between (preferably two) users and to ensure an optimal flow, the processing status of the individual users can be digitally recorded automatically in real time. This enables two or more users to work simultaneously in different areas of the machine without jeopardizing the integrity of the electrical installation and without lengthy coordination processes.

[0072] It may be advantageous if the current status of the installation is indicated in real time. Furthermore, installation instructions can be assigned to individual users and recorded digitally. In this way, relevant information can be collected during the installation process. The collected information includes, for example:

[0073] - User-specific identifier and role (access and editing permissions, and qualification level if applicable), and / or

[0074] - last used connection element and / or last used component and / or last used part, and / or

[0075] - the last used connection module on the machine and / or the last processed location to which the part and / or component was connected, in particular a section of the machine, and / or

[0076] - the last user (unique user ID) and the time of the last edit by that user, and / or;

[0077] - The last identified connection element, preferably the scanned component, and the machine area for which this connection element or component is intended.

[0078] Provision can be made for at least two users to carry out the installation of spatially distributed electrical components of a machine. Each user can log in via a user interface of a computer, preferably a portable computer, and then, for example, select a work order to be processed in order to start the installation. Selecting a work order or installation instructions locks it and makes it unavailable to other users. Each user can log in on his own computer and make the selection. The computers are connected to each other and / or to a server, for example, via a network, in order to synchronize the selections with each other.

[0079] In order to identify the installation elements suitable for installation, in particular components or cables, each user can use a detection device, in particular a scanner or a camera as a reader. This enables the individual user to link the reader used with the user's current order electronically and using data technology at each use, so as to record the progress of the individual installations.

[0080] Each user may be provided with a unique label so that the user can be identified based on the label. For example, the label may be associated with a username, which is specified when the user logs in. By each of the at least two users logging in using the label associated with the user, the computer program can access the data associated with the user and issue installation instructions to the user according to the user's ability. In this way, for first-time users of the system, new data may only be recorded or collected in order to create an appropriate user profile for repeated use or subsequent installations. By recording the time required for each installation step, standard values ​​can be determined in order to classify users as "fast / slow / average" according to their skills in the installation process. This allows the permissions or roles to be pre-adjusted according to the specific situation of each user. In addition, the level of detail of the instructions can be adjusted using stored data about the user's training level. By recording the work steps associated with the user, the computer program can access the last installation step performed and indicate it to the user.

[0081] After logging in, you can start the installation on the machine, or continue the installation on the component (especially a section of the machine) that the user last worked on.

[0082] By identifying the installation elements of the components suitable for installation, in particular components and cables, using the device for data processing, new work steps can be initiated if necessary. With the topology stored in the installation specification and the electrical structure based on the ECAD data, it is advantageously possible to clearly assign the initiated work steps to an area in the machine and to the installation plan.

[0083] Once the work steps are completed, the individual assembly progress can be documented by a manual and user-specific confirmation of correct assembly.

[0084] Once the correct installation is confirmed, the step is saved in the system along with the user ID so that in case of a user change the last status can be viewed and the installation continued.

[0085] Another object of the invention may also be a further method for computer-aided installation, in particular electrical installation, of spatially distributed and / or electrical components of a machine, in particular a system or an installation.

[0086] Advantages and features described in conjunction with the method according to the invention also apply in conjunction with the further method according to the invention and vice versa.

[0087] A further method according to the invention may comprise the following steps, which are preferably performed sequentially or in any order, wherein the steps may also be performed automatically and / or repeatedly and / or at least partially in parallel in time:

[0088] - providing at least or exactly two user-specific installation specifications, which define the assignment of at least one installation element (preferably a cable or component) and at least one electrical component (preferably in the form of a connection module for connection to the installation element and to other installation elements) with regard to installation and their function;

[0089] - providing at least or exactly two system / device specifications specific to a section (e.g. component or location) of a machine (preferably an automation system / device);

[0090] -Optional: Provide at least or exactly one installation reference;

[0091] - Based on the provided installation specifications and / or installation references and / or user-specific standards and / or system specifications, at least or exactly two user-specific installation instructions are generated to support at least two users (especially workers or planners) in installing the same machine (especially equipment) at the same time.

[0092] In other words, installation instructions may be issued for multiple users so that the users can perform the installation at least partially simultaneously. The installation instructions may depend not only on the machine section installed by the respective user, but also on other user-specific criteria. For this purpose, at least one or more installation references and / or user-specific criteria may be provided.

[0093] In another possible case, it can be provided that generating at least one user-specific installation instruction each comprises the following steps:

[0094] - receiving an identifier of one of the users, preferably an unambiguous label;

[0095] - analyzing the suitability of the provided multiple installation references for the user's specific criteria according to predefined suitability rules (in particular installation history, installation efficiency and user access rights);

[0096] -Based on the above analysis, select the installation instructions suitable for the user from the analyzed installation references;

[0097] - Provide at least one installation instruction based on the above analysis.

[0098] Further advantages can be achieved within the scope of the invention if generating at least one installation instruction comprises the following steps:

[0099] - based on the system specification, selecting at least one section of a machine or automation system (in particular at least one system component);

[0100] - comparing at least one selected section with at least one reference section (in particular at least one reference component) of a provided installation reference according to predefined installation instructions (in particular a guide);

[0101] - Provide at least one installation instruction based on the above comparison.

[0102] It is also conceivable within the scope of the invention that the comparison of at least one selected segment comprises the following steps:

[0103] - Analyze the applicability of several reference sections in the provided installation reference to the selected section;

[0104] - based on the above analysis, selecting a suitable reference segment for the selected segment from the analyzed reference segments;

[0105] -Compares the selected segment to the selected reference segment using the specified installation instructions.

[0106] In addition, it may be provided that at least one installation instruction is provided including the following steps:

[0107] - identifying installation instructions based on the above comparison;

[0108] - analyzing the suitability of the respectively identified installation instructions as installation instructions for the selected section;

[0109] - Based on the above analysis, select at least one suitable installation instruction from the analyzed installation instructions.

[0110] Further advantages can be achieved within the scope of the present invention if the further method comprises the following further steps:

[0111] - receiving an identifier of an installation element (preferably a cable or a component);

[0112] - analyzing whether the received identifier has been received before,

[0113] If the analysis result is positive, the following steps are preferably performed:

[0114] - prevent the provisioning process of user-specific installation specifications,

[0115] If the analysis result is negative, the following steps are advantageously performed:

[0116] - providing a user-specific installation specification that specifies the assignment of mounting elements to electrical component connections, preferably in the form of connection modules for connection to the mounting element and other mounting elements;

[0117] - Identify electrical components based on the provided installation specifications; and

[0118] - Based on the received identifier, the identified component and the user information, initiating output of at least one piece of installation information.

[0119] In another possible case, it may be provided that at least one installation information includes at least two installation instructions to assist at least two users in performing the installation, wherein preferably starting the output includes at least one of the following steps:

[0120] - activate the display element on the electrical component,

[0121] - so that a connection point, in particular a slot, of a mounting element to be connected is indicated by means of the display element;

[0122] - indicating connection points, in particular slots, on the electrical component for mounting the component on a user interface of the computer, wherein the user interface visualizes a digital model of at least a portion of the device and preferably visualizes the mechanical structure of this portion of the device;

[0123] - Use augmented reality to indicate connection points on electrical components, particularly slots, for mounting components;

[0124] - initiating output of user-specific installation instructions as instructions for an individual user to connect the installation element to a specific connection point of the electrical component, the connection point preferably being determined according to user-specific installation specifications;

[0125] - Enables auditory output of installation instructions, in particular voice output.

[0126] It is also conceivable within the scope of the present invention that a further method comprises the following further steps:

[0127] - verifying the connections (preferably the connected connection points) based on the installation specifications (preferably the predetermined digital electrical connection diagram), in particular in order to determine whether the user has correctly carried out the installation information in the form of installation instructions, preferably storing a tag of the installation specifications in accordance with said verification, and

[0128] If the verification is positive, at least one of the following steps is preferably performed:

[0129] - storing user identification in order to assign the connected connection point to the corresponding user;

[0130] -Store timestamps to extend user data and installation references;

[0131] - In electrical connection diagrams, the labels of connection points are stored as correctly connected connection points;

[0132] Wherein if the verification is negative, at least one of the following steps is advantageously performed:

[0133] - In electrical connection diagrams, the labels of connection points are stored as changed connection points;

[0134] - storing the user identification in order to assign the changed connection points to the corresponding user;

[0135] -Store timestamps to extend user data and installation references;

[0136] - Start correction of the connections according to the electrical connection diagram.

[0137] In another possible case, the installation specifications may include specifications for a topological arrangement of electrical components, wherein the electrical components are interconnected.

[0138] Further advantages can be achieved within the scope of the invention if at least one of the following specifications is received (preferably via an installation message) in order to create a digital twin of the installation element and / or electrical component based on the received identifiers and identified electrical components: component type, machine type, device type, user, connection point name, timestamp date and time, installation duration, address in the bus system, device identification, cable length, port assignment, unterminated cable properties, temperature, humidity, current project status during installation, deviations from the plan and their reasons.

[0139] Further advantages can be achieved within the scope of the invention if the provided installation reference at least partially comprises one or more of the following reference data:

[0140] - initial reference data related to the mechanical arrangement of the reference system, in particular MCAD data;

[0141] - second reference data relating to the electrical wiring of the reference system, in particular ECAD data;

[0142] - third reference data, comprising one or more images (preferably scanned images) of the installed automation system or system components;

[0143] - fourth reference data, including system environment data;

[0144] -Fifth reference data, including historical user data, especially qualification status, access rights, user ID and historical work speed.

[0145] Further advantages are achieved if the method comprises at least one of the following further steps:

[0146] - starting the saving of at least two generated installation instructions as executed installations;

[0147] - Initiating storage of the at least two generated installation instructions as a further part of the provided installation reference.

[0148] A (further) system for computer-aided installation, in particular electrical installation, of spatially distributed and / or electrical components of a machine, in particular an apparatus, comprising:

[0149] - a device for reading the identifier of an installed element (preferably a cable or a component);

[0150] - an electrical component, preferably in the form of a connection module for connection to the mounting element and to other mounting elements;

[0151] - an apparatus for data processing comprising means for carrying out the method steps.

[0152] In another possible case, it can be provided that the identifier is encoded in a machine-readable code assigned to the mounting element (in particular arranged on the mounting element), wherein the machine-readable code can be machine-readable by an installer using a reading device assigned by the unique identifier; and / or wherein the component and the computer and / or the control device are each connected to each other via a bus system for bidirectional communication, wherein the bidirectional communication is provided based on a communication protocol based on the ProfiNet standard, Ethernet or the 802.3 standard, and / or the bidirectional communication is provided in a wired manner via the bus system or wirelessly via Bluetooth or WLAN based on standards in accordance with IEEE 802.11 or based on mobile telecommunication standards. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0153] To better understand the present disclosure, please refer to the following figures:

[0154] Figure 1 : Centralized connection in the machine via the control cabinet.

[0155] Figure 2 : A distributed circuit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] Figure 3 : Schematic diagram of a system portion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0157] Figure 4 : Schematic diagram of the details of the method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0158] Figure 5 : Schematic diagram of the method steps according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0159] Planning, installing and setting up machines and electronic automation technology is a complex task. This applies both to centralized control cabinet systems and to decentralized systems in which the control modules are mounted directly on the system. The corresponding work is performed by different personnel, such as system planners, electrical planners, installers, system programmers, etc. A special feature of decentralized systems compared to centralized control cabinet systems is that the modules are distributed at different locations on the machine. Especially for larger machines, it may be advantageous to carry out the installation simultaneously, i.e. by several users at the same time, for time and logistics reasons. In order to ensure that the installation process runs smoothly, the working status should be recorded digitally, automatically, user-specifically and in real time. For various reasons (e.g. maintenance planning, system diagnostics), it is important to have complete documentation of all relevant information throughout the entire system life cycle.

[0160] Figure 1 The central connection using a control cabinet 9 is shown in schematic form to Figure 2 In contrast, the decentralized connection of spatially decentralized electrical components 4 of the machine 1 is used. Figure 2 The distributed wiring shown in Figure 1 Instead of connecting all devices 5, such as sensors and actuators, directly to the control cabinet 9, as in the embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of components 4, in particular connection modules, can be used. Like the control cabinet 9, these connection modules enable the devices 5 to be connected to a control device 8, such as an SPS. However, the connection modules 4 can be decentralized and distributed in the vicinity of the devices 5. Thus, the connection modules 4 only partially connect the devices 5 to one another, wherein the connection modules 4 together or, for example, one and / or more connection modules 4 realize the entire interconnection via one and / or more hubs 6. In order to be able to configure and / or control the connection modules 4 centrally, a master module 3 can be connected upstream of the plurality of individual connection modules 4. It is also possible to further subdivide the interconnection via at least one hub 6.

[0161] Figure 3 A part of a system 2 according to an embodiment of the invention is shown, which system can be used for computer-aided installation of spatially dispersed electrical components 4 of a machine 1. The system 2 may comprise a detection device 22, in particular a scanner 22 or a camera 22, for providing an identifier 11 of a mounting element 10, preferably a cable 11 or a component 11. Furthermore, the system 2 may comprise at least one electrical component 4, preferably in the form of a connection module 4 for connecting to the mounting element 10 and to other mounting elements 10. Likewise, a device 30 for data processing may be part of the system 2, wherein the device 30 for data processing may comprise means for performing the steps of the method 100 according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0162] The identifier 11 may be encoded in a machine-readable code 12 associated with the mounting element 10 (in particular provided on the mounting element 10), wherein the machine-readable code 12 is designed to be machine-readable by means of the detection device 22. This enables a user to scan the code 12 by means of the detection device 22, thereby transmitting the identifier 11 to the device 30 for data processing.

[0163] Furthermore, the component 4 and at least one computer 30, 31 and / or the control device 8 can each be connected to each other via a bus system 21 for bidirectional communication, wherein the bidirectional communication can be provided based on a communication protocol for field bus systems, in particular based on ProfiNet, Ethernet Industrial Protocol (Ethernet / IP) or 802.3 standard, and / or the bidirectional communication can be provided via the bus system 21 in a wired manner or based on a standard in accordance with IEEE 802.11 or based on a mobile telecommunication standard, via Bluetooth or a wireless local area network (WLAN). In order to enable the component 4 to operate, the component 4 can also be connected to a power supply 13.

[0164] The figure also shows a computer program 20, which includes instructions, and when the program is executed by a computer 30, the computer 30 performs the steps of the method 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0165] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The method steps of the method 100 are shown. Thus, according to a first method step 101, an identifier 11 of a mounting element 10 may be received. Subsequently, according to a second method step 102, a mounting specification 200 may be provided 102, which specifies an assignment of the mounting element 10 to an electrical component 4, the electrical component 4 preferably being in the form of a connection module 4 for connecting to the mounting element 10 and to other mounting elements 10. Then, according to a third method step 103, the electrical component 4 may be identified using the provided mounting specification 200. Then, according to a fourth method step 104, outputting at least one installation information may be initiated based on the received identifier 11 and the identified component 4. The at least one installation information may include installation instructions to support a user during the installation process.

[0166] The method 100 may provide at least one of the following support options:

[0167] - Support the user during the installation process (especially wiring);

[0168] - Support users in documenting the installation process;

[0169] - Provide support to users during testing / automated testing;

[0170] - Provide support to the user during the disassembly process;

[0171] - Provide support to engineering design during the planning process;

[0172] - Provide support to SPS programmers.

[0173] The start output can include the start activation Figure 3 , so as to indicate by means of the display element 41 a connection point 42, in particular a slot 42, of the mounting element 10 to be connected. As an alternative or in addition, initiating the output may include initiating the display of the connection point 42, in particular a slot 42, on the electrical component 4 for the mounting element 10 on the user interface 32 of the computer 31. The user interface 32 may thereby visualize a digital twin of at least a portion of the machine 1, and preferably visualize the mechanical and / or electrical structure of the portion of the machine 1. Further alternative or additional output means include indicating the connection point 42, in particular a slot 42, on the electrical component 4 for the mounting element 10 by means of augmented reality technology, and / or outputting the installation instructions as instructions for the user to connect the mounting element 10 to a specific connection point 42 of the electrical component 4, preferably the connection point 42 being determined according to the installation specification 200. In addition, an audible output of the installation instructions may also be provided so that the user can follow the installation instructions without looking at the computer 31. For example, the identifier of the component 4 and / or the corresponding connection point 42 are output verbally here.

[0174] The installation information may also include an installation configuration and / or an installation document, which is stored in the data memory 33 and / or transmitted to the electrical component 4 .

[0175] In order to avoid possible recording errors when entering information manually, it can be advantageous to store it automatically in the system. For example, all information is stored in the correct place in various documents of the installation specification, such as circuit diagrams or connection diagrams. The person carrying out the corresponding step then only has to confirm these entries.

[0176] Relevant information that may be included in the installation documentation includes, for example:

[0177] - Which component was used (unique, preferably unambiguous identification)?

[0178] - On which machine is a particular part installed and where on the machine?

[0179] -Who connected and when?

[0180] -To which port or connection point does the cable connect?

[0181] -How are the cables connected?

[0182] -Are the components connected correctly?

[0183] -Are there any deviations from the plan?

[0184] The installation document can be used, for example, to record at least one of the following information: the user's work steps and additional information about the work steps, such as the duration of the process, which machine is being processed, which user (e.g. which installer or installer) performed these activities and when, which components have been wired and / or cables have been connected, whether the installation steps have been completed, which ports / connection points have been used, whether there are unterminated cables and what are the properties of the unterminated cables (e.g. length, environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, current project status, protection level, such as IP67), and the user (especially the worker) can also enter the reason for the deviation from the plan when there is a deviation. The installation document can be stored in a database, for example. If necessary, the user can trigger the recording by physical operation (key, screen operation, double-click).

[0185] Furthermore, an evaluation unit can be provided which evaluates the recorded information, preferably the processing times of the individual work steps by the user. Artificial intelligence methods can also be used for this purpose, which can, for example, optimize the results of the evaluation unit. The results show the user the optimization potential in order to make the machine more efficient in the future, optimize components or assemblies, and improve the assembly and disassembly processes. In the event of deviations from the plan, the relevant comments are also taken into account.

[0186] The documentation can also handle components that are not pre-configured or connected to the SPS. This avoids errors that could arise from using 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 the user through the installation of automation technology. The systematic collection and documentation of all relevant information, such as the components used, the performance of installation and maintenance tasks, or problems that have occurred, also results in reliable information about the current system status. The automatic collection and distribution of this information significantly speeds up the process and relieves the manual installer of the documentation workload. The automatic collection and storage of the information to be documented significantly reduces the risk of missing and / or incorrect documentation.

[0187] exist Figure 4 , the method 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in more detail. The user can first use Figure 3 301. To this end, the user can use a graphical user interface 32 provided by the computer 31. The user interface 32 can also be used to select an item 302, for example, by which the installation specification 200 of the desired item is loaded. This enables the start operation 303 to be initiated to instruct the user to install the machine 1 through at least one installation instruction.

[0188] Optionally, after the start operation 303, the last performed step 304, such as the last installation instructions and / or other instructions for installation, can first be displayed. Initially, the user can identify the installation element 10 305, wherein the user, for example, scans the identification medium 12 on the installation element 10 using a detection device 22 such as a handheld scanner. Then, based on the scanned identification medium 12, the identifier 11 can be determined and transmitted to the computer 31 and / or the device 30 for data processing. Using the received identifier 11 and the installation specification 200, the electrical component 4 and the connection point 42 to which its installation element 10 is to be connected can then be identified. For this purpose, the installation specification 200, for example, includes a matrix in which various installation elements 10 are assigned to the component 4. The user can then be informed by the installation instructions which component 4 has been identified. For example, the display element 41 on the component 4 illuminates. This can be achieved by a signal transmission 306 from the device 30 for data processing to the component 4. Then, the user can establish a connection 307 between the installation element 10 and the component. Based on the installation specification 200, a confirmation 308 of a correct installation can be provided. Subsequently, it is possible to carry out an at least partially automated documentation 309 of the correct installation and to record 310 the completion of the work step in the installation specification 200. This can be done, for example, by indicating this with a green check mark 311 in the machine overview or, for example, by displaying the affected connections in the circuit diagram and indicating this to the user via the user interface 32. The identification of the installed components can then be carried out again 312. By guiding the user (in particular a worker) during the installation process of electrical automation technology and by automatically checking whether the appropriate components have been correctly connected, error-free production of the system can be ensured.

[0189] The user can then establish a connection between the installation element and devices such as actuators and / or hubs and / or sensors (not shown). The installation specification 200 can be used to confirm that the installation is correct. It is then possible to record the correct installation at least partially automatically and to record the completion of the work steps in the installation specification 200. This can be done, for example, by indicating it with a green check mark in the machine overview or, for example, by indicating the relevant connections in a circuit diagram and showing it to the user via the user interface 32. These work steps correspond in principle to the work steps 307 to 311.

[0190] The system 2 according to the embodiment of the present invention may further include at least one information interface for providing 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:

[0191] - between the system 2 and users (in particular workers and / or planners and / or programmers), for example for transmitting work instructions and / or project status and / or for optimizing planning;

[0192] - 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;

[0193] - between system 2 and component 4;

[0194] - a system 2 via a component 4 and one or more devices 5 (such as actuators and / or sensors);

[0195] - System 2 passes between component 4 and hub 6.

[0196] - Information can be transferred in a two-way information transfer between the system 2 and the components 4. This can be done when 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.

[0197] Although some aspects have been described in conjunction with devices, it is clear that these aspects also constitute a description of the corresponding method, wherein the elements or devices correspond to method steps or features of method steps. Similarly, aspects described in conjunction with method steps also constitute a description of corresponding modules or elements or features of the corresponding device.

[0198] Embodiments of the present invention can be implemented on a computing system. The computing system can be a local computing 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 computing system (e.g., a cloud computing system having one or more processors and one or more storage devices 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. As used herein, the term "processor" 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 customer-specific circuits, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc., such as one or more circuits (e.g., communication circuits) used in wireless devices such as cellular 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 a particular application, such as main memory in the form of random access memory (RAM), one or more hard disks, and / or one or more drives for handling removable media 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 control device, which may include a mouse, trackball, touch screen, voice recognition device, or other device that allows a system user to input information to and receive information from the computer system.

[0199] Some or all of the method steps may be performed by (or using) a hardware device, such as a processor, a microprocessor, a programmable computer or an electronic circuit. In some embodiments, some or more of the main method steps may be performed by such a device.

[0200] According to specific implementation requirements, the embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in hardware or software. The implementation can be carried out using a non-transmittable storage medium (e.g., a digital storage medium, such as a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blu-ray disc, a CD, a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or a flash memory), on which electronically readable control signals are stored, which interact (or can interact) with a programmable computer system to perform the corresponding method. Therefore, the digital storage medium can be computer-readable.

[0201] Some embodiments of the invention comprise a data carrier having electronically readable control signals, which are capable of cooperating with a programmable computer system, such that one of the methods described herein is performed.

[0202] Generally speaking, the embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a computer program product, which includes a program code, wherein 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 medium.

[0203] Other embodiments comprise the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein, stored on a machine readable medium.

[0204] In other words, therefore, one embodiment of the present invention is a computer program comprising a program code for performing any of the methods described herein when the computer program runs on a computer.

[0205] Therefore, another embodiment of the present invention is a storage medium (or data carrier or computer-readable medium), on which, when executed by a processor, a computer program for performing any of the methods described herein is stored. The data carrier, digital storage medium or recording medium is typically tangible and / or non-transportable. Another embodiment of the present invention is a device as described herein comprising a processor and the storage medium.

[0206] Therefore, another embodiment of the present invention is a data stream or a sequence of signals representing the computer program for executing one of the methods described herein.For example, the data stream or the sequence of signals may be configured to be transmitted via a data communication link (eg, via the Internet).

[0207] Another embodiment comprises a processing means, for example a computer or a programmable logic device, configured or adapted to perform any of the methods described herein.

[0208] A further embodiment comprises a computer having installed thereon the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein.

[0209] Another embodiment of the present invention includes an apparatus or system configured to transmit (e.g., electronically or optically) a computer program to a recipient for performing any of the methods described herein. The recipient may be, for example, a computer, a mobile device, a storage device, etc. The apparatus or system may, for example, include a file server for transmitting the computer program to the recipient.

[0210] 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.

[0211] Reference numerals list

[0212] 1Machinery and equipment

[0213] 2 System

[0214] 3 Main Module

[0215] 4Modules, switches, components, connection modules

[0216] 5Device, Sensor, Actuator

[0217] 6. Hub

[0218] 8Control equipment, SPS

[0219] 9. Control cabinet

[0220] 10. Install components

[0221] 11 Identifiers

[0222] 12 Identification media, machine-readable code

[0223] 13 Power Supply

[0224] 20 Computer Programs

[0225] 21 bus system

[0226] 22Testing equipment

[0227] 30 devices

[0228] 31 Computer

[0229] 32 User Interface

[0230] 33 Data storage

[0231] 41 Display components

[0232] 42 connection points, slots

[0233] 100 Methods

[0234] 101 First Method Steps

[0235] 102 Second Method Step

[0236] 103The third method step

[0237] 104The fourth method step

[0238] 200 Installation Specifications

[0239] 301 User Login

[0240] 302 Project Selection

[0241] 303 Guidance Start

[0242] 304 shows the last executed step

[0243] 305 Identification of installed components (especially cables)

[0244] 306 sends a signal to the component to make the display element emit light

[0245] 307 Establish the connection between the cable and the module

[0246] 308 Confirmation of correct installation

[0247] 309 Documentation of correct installation

[0248] 310 Recording work steps completed

[0249] 311 Machine Overview Display

[0250] 312 Identification of Mounting Components

Claims

1. A method (100) for computer-aided installation of spatially distributed electrical components (4) of a machine (1), in particular of an apparatus (1), the method comprising: Receiving (101) an identifier (11) of a mounting element (10), preferably a cable or a component; providing (102) a mounting specification (200) which specifies the assignment of connections between the mounting element (10) and an electrical component (4), the electrical component (4) preferably being in the form of a connection module (4) for connection to the mounting element (10) and to other mounting elements (10); identifying (103) the electrical component (4) based on the provided installation specifications (200); and Outputting (104) at least one piece of installation information is initiated based on the received identifier (11) and the identified component (4).

2. The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one installation information includes installation instructions for assisting the user in installation, preferably wherein: Initiating the outputting comprises at least one of the following steps: actuating the activation of a display element (41) on the electrical component (4) so ​​as to indicate a connection point (42), in particular a slot (42), for a mounting element (10) to be connected via the display element (41); Initiating the indication of a connection point (42), in particular a slot (42), for the mounting element (10) on the electrical 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 the mechanical and / or electrical structure of this portion of the machine (1); Initiating the indication of a connection point (42), in particular a slot (42), for the mounting element (10) on the electrical component (4) by means of augmented reality technology; Initiating output of the installation instructions as instructions for the user to connect the installation element (10) to a specific connection point (42) of the electrical component (4), wherein the connection point (42) is preferably determined according to the installation specification (200); An acoustic output, in particular a speech output, of the installation instructions is initiated.

3. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The method (100) comprises the following further steps: Detecting the connection state between the mounting element (10) and the electrical component (4) to determine whether the connection has been established, wherein detecting the connection state preferably includes: receiving an installation message based on input from the user and / or from the electrical component (4), The received installation message indicates that a connection between the installation element (10) and the electrical component (4), preferably a connection with an indicated connection point (42) of the electrical component (4), has been established.

4. The method (100) according to claim 3, wherein: The method (100) comprises the following further steps: In particular, in order to determine whether the user has correctly implemented the installation information in the form of installation instructions, the connection, preferably the connected connection point (42), is verified using the installation specification (200), preferably using a predetermined digital circuit diagram, in particular an electrical connection diagram, wherein a label of the installation specification (200) is preferably stored based on the verification, and in particular, the subsequent steps are performed in the event of a positive verification: In the installation specification (200), a label of the connection point (42) is stored as a correctly connected connection point (42); In the event of a negative verification, at least one of the following steps is advantageously performed: In the installation specification (200), preferably based on the installation parameters recorded by the user, in particular the reason or justification for the change, a label of the connection point (42) is stored as a changed connection point (42), wherein preferably also an indication of the reason or justification for the change is stored; and preferably: Correction of the connection is initiated according to the installation specifications (200).

5. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: At least one installation message includes installation instructions for assisting a user in modifying the machine (1), wherein the initiation output preferably includes at least the following steps: An output installation sequence is initiated by at least one installation message for installing the machine (1).

6. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Initiating the output includes initiating bidirectional communication with the identified component (4) via the bus system (21).

7. 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 installation element (10) and / or the electrical component (4) based on the received identifier (11) and the identified component (4): component type, machine type, device type, user, connection point name, timestamp date and time, installation duration, address in the bus system (21), device identification, cable length, port assignment, properties of unterminated cables, temperature, humidity, current project status during installation, deviations from the plan and / or reasons.

8. 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), the installation configuration and / or installation documentation being stored in a data memory (33) and / or transmitted to the electrical component (4).

9. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The installation information comprises a unique label which characterizes the installation element (10) and / or the identified component (4), wherein the installation information is stored in the installation specification (200), in particular in a digital construction plan, preferably comprising ECAD data and / or MCAD data, wherein the installation element (10) is selected from a plurality of similar installation elements (10) and / or the identified component (4) is selected from a plurality of similar components (4) based on the identifier (11).

10. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The installation specification (200) comprises predefined specifications for a modular and / or decentralized structure of the machine (1), in particular the device (1), preferably based on predefined ECAD data and / or MCAD data, in particular interconnecting the installation elements (10) in the form of cables and / or components by means of components in the form of connecting modules (4), preferably comprising an electrical connection diagram, wherein the installation specification (200) is preferably determined by linking the ECAD data and the MCAD data.

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

12. A system (2) for computer-aided installation of spatially distributed electrical components (4) of a machine (1), the system comprising: a detection device (22), in particular a scanner (22) or a camera (22), for providing an identifier (11) of a mounting element (10), preferably a cable (11) or a component (11); at least one electrical component (4), preferably in the form of a connection module (4) for connection to the mounting element (10) and to other mounting elements (10); Device (30) for data processing, comprising means for performing the steps of the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

13. The system (2) according to claim 12, wherein: The identifier (11) is encoded in a machine-readable code (12) associated with the mounting element (10), in particular arranged on the mounting element (10), wherein the machine-readable code (12) is machine-readable by the detection device (22); and / or The components (4) and the computer and / or the control device are each connected to each other via a bus system (21) for bidirectional communication, wherein the bidirectional communication is provided based on a communication protocol for a field bus system, in particular based on the ProfiNet standard, the Ethernet / IP standard or the 802.3 standard, and / or the bidirectional communication is provided via the bus system (21) in a wired manner or based on a standard that complies with IEEE 802.11 or based on a mobile radio communication standard, via Bluetooth or WLAN in a wireless manner.

14. A computer program (20) comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer (30), cause the computer to perform the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

15. A device (30) for data processing, comprising means for performing the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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