Method for computer-aided inspection of mounting element for mounting environment

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (100) for computer-aided inspection of an installation element (10) in an installation environment, wherein the method (100) comprises the following steps: checking (101) the suitability of the installation element (10) for installation in the installation environment; generating (102) at least one piece of installation information based on a result of the checking (101) to provide support for the user during the installation process; and initiating (103) output of the generated at least one piece of installation information to the user.

Description

Field of the Invention

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

[0002] The complexity and diversity of automated equipment that must be developed, planned, installed, maintained, and repaired are increasing day by day. At all stages of the life cycle of such equipment, such as the development / planning, production, commissioning, operation, and maintenance stages, it has become increasingly important to provide simple and efficient support to installers or planners in electrical installation projects.

[0003] During the installation process, it may occur that the characteristics of the components used do not meet the environmental requirements. For example, the requirements for the equipment on site may be different from those assumed during planning. Then, whether these deviations can be correctly evaluated, and how to evaluate whether the components to be installed are suitable for further use, depend on the experience and expertise of the installer. Therefore, this inspection method has a high probability of error in evaluating product and environmental characteristics, which may lead to equipment failures later.

[0004] Therefore, a task of the present invention is to provide a computer-aided method and system that can install components and electrical components and at least partially eliminate the above-mentioned disadvantages. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The above task is solved by a method, a computer program, and a data processing device, as described in the independent claims. Other features and details of the present invention can be derived from the respective dependent claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0006] The subject matter of the present invention particularly relates to a method for computer-aided inspection of installation elements (especially components and / or cables and / or plug connectors) for an installation environment, which is particularly suitable for installing spatially distributed electrical components in an installation machine (especially equipment).

[0007] The machine can be designed as at least one of the following listed machines:

[0008] - Automated equipment;

[0009] - Production equipment;

[0010] - Logistics equipment;

[0011] - Production line;

[0012] - Machining center;

[0013] - Industrial robot;

[0014] - Manufacturing equipment;

[0015] - Unit;

[0016] - Electrical device.

[0017] In particular, the machine can be designed as a machine with modular features or as a mobile machine, where the individual components of the machine are installed in a modular manner according to the installation specifications. This installation is at least partially manually completed by a user such as a worker.

[0018] The electrical components can be connection modules that enable decentralized and modular connection of the installation elements. "Decentralized" can here mean that the connection modules at least partially replace the central control cabinet, because although each connection module only provides part of the connection for the machine, these connections achieve decentralized connection on-site. In a central topology, for example, in the concept of a centralized control cabinet, point-to-point connection is particularly mentioned, that is, the starting point, connection, and end point are clearly defined. In contrast, in a decentralized application, 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, for example, it can be said to be a module-module connection or a module-hub-point connection. In principle, the following components can be provided in a machine: devices such as actuators and / or sensors, connection modules, and installation elements such as those for wiring.

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

[0020] - Check whether the installation element is suitable for installation in the installation environment, preferably based on an assessment of the compatibility between at least one characteristic of the installation element and at least one characteristic of the installation environment (especially temperature and / or air humidity and / or voltage and / or acceleration);

[0021] - Generate at least one piece of installation information based on the check result to provide support for the user during the installation process;

[0022] - Start outputting the at least one piece of generated installation information to the user.

[0023] In this way, the method enables a simpler, faster, and error-free installation and can provide substantial support to the user during the installation of the machine, improving the installation process in terms of quality. In addition, the time-consuming inspection work carried out by qualified professionals can be significantly reduced. Moreover, the advantage of this method is that it can ensure a more efficient and effective use of the available installation components, such as cables and / or parts, during the installation. In addition, the service life of each installation component is significantly increased in a favorable manner. Furthermore, the method significantly simplifies the more flexible use of the labor force because there are no high requirements for professional qualifications during installation.

[0024] In this way, a support system for installation (especially wiring) can be provided, which provides support during the installation regarding the suitability of the installation components for their intended use, and wherein the data processing device can automatically execute these method steps. The data processing device, especially the data processing device according to the present invention, can advantageously communicate with the various components so as to be able to output installation information. For this purpose, the data processing device can have at least one interface for communication.

[0025] The user can be, for example, an installer and / or a plant mechanic and / or an electrician and / or a worker and / or a planner and / or a machine designer or developer and / or an electrical designer or developer and / or an SPS programmer and / or a commissioning engineer and / or a maintenance personnel and / or a machine operator. The user can use the method of the present invention by having the method provided to him / her by a computer. For this purpose, a computer program can be at least partially executed by this computer and / or another computer to execute the method steps according to the present invention.

[0026] For the installation of a machine, multiple installation elements can be set. Each installation element can be assigned an identifier by which the installation element can be uniquely identified. The identifier can accordingly be, for example, a kind of information capable of digital processing. Each of the installation elements can have the identifier in such a way that a physical identification device is set and / or installed on the installation element. The installation elements can be, for example, cables or components, which are functional components of the machine. Advantageously, the identifier includes a unique, especially distinct identification. In this way, the installation element can be uniquely identified based on the identifier in cases related to the machine and / or other machines and / or machine installation. One or more pieces of information about the installation element can be assigned to the identifier. At least one piece of information can include at least one of the following: at least one status information, output installation information, identification of the identified component, at least one document specification to be described in detail below, such as component type, machine type, equipment type, user, connection point name, timestamp (date and time), installation duration, address in the bus system, operating medium identification, cable length, port assignment, characteristics of the unterminated cable, cable length, temperature, air humidity, current project status during installation, deviation from the plan and the reason. Therefore, digitally storing at least one piece of information associated with the identifier can create a digital twin of the installation element.

[0027] Preferably, the installation element can include a cable and / or a component, where the cable can have at least one or exactly one plug connector and is preferably single-sidedly assembled, that is, having a male plug or a female plug on one side and an unterminated end on the other side. Alternatively, the cable can also be double-sidedly assembled, that is, having a male plug or a female plug on each side of the cable.

[0028] It is also possible that at least one piece of installation information includes installation instructions for supporting the user during the installation process, where the start output includes at least one of the following steps:

[0029] - Start outputting the installation instructions as an indication of the connection point for the connection of the installation element to the electrical component and / or as an indication of the suitability of the installation element, preferably indicating to the user that the installation element is suitable for use in the installation environment;

[0030] - Start the visual output of the installation instructions, preferably through a graphical user interface and / or by means of augmented reality technology and / or through the signal indicator of the electrical component;

[0031] - Start the auditory output of the installation instructions, especially voice output.

[0032] This enables information to be provided directly to the user via the installation instructions, informing whether the installation element is suitable for use in the installation environment and in what manner it should be installed. The user interface can be a graphical user interface, which is preferably displayed on the screen of a computer. The computer can be, for example, a portable computer such as a laptop or a tablet.

[0033] Display by means of augmented reality technology (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 surroundings through a camera and processes the camera image in order to add additional information to the camera image. The additional information includes, for example, highlighting the connection points when the physical connection points of the component can be seen in the camera image.

[0034] In addition, an auditory output can also be provided, which includes, for example, control of the speaker. The auditory output can be, for example, a voice output, and the connection name of the connection point is spoken through the voice output.

[0035] In addition, within the scope of the present invention, it can be stipulated that when it is determined according to the inspection result that the installation element is not suitable enough for installation in the installation environment, at least one of the following steps is performed when starting the output:

[0036] - Start outputting a warning prompt and / or an error message, preferably outputting a warning prompt and / or an error message indicating that the installation element is not suitable for use in the installation environment and the function of the installation element will be significantly affected;

[0037] - Start correcting the connection in the installation specification;

[0038] - Start outputting installation instructions and / or operation suggestions, preferably specifying another installation element, which is more suitable for installation in the installation environment than the inspected installation element.

[0039] This has the advantage that when it is determined in the inspection that the installation element is not suitable for the installation environment, direct and faster information can be provided to the user during the installation process. In addition, this enables the user to correct their operation more quickly or enables the user to better identify possible alternatives.

[0040] It is also possible that the method includes the following additional steps:

[0041] - Automatically record the suitability of the installation element according to the inspection result.

[0042] This has the advantage that it ensures easier traceability verification during subsequent inspections. In addition, this significantly reduces the time and error rate of user input advantageously, because there is no need for manual recording.

[0043] Optionally, it may be provided that the method comprises the following additional steps:

[0044] - providing installation data of installation elements (in particular cables and / or plug connectors), wherein the installation data includes planning data of the characteristics of the installation elements.

[0045] Furthermore, it may be provided that the method comprises the following additional steps:

[0046] - providing installation data of the installation environment, wherein the installation data includes planning data of the characteristics of the installation environment.

[0047] This has the advantage that the method can more simply and error - free match the characteristics of the installation elements to be installed and / or the characteristics of the actual installation environment with the corresponding planning data, thereby being able to provide substantial support to the user during the installation process and simplifying and accelerating the installation process. In addition, this enables the potential problems to be identified more quickly through the provided planning data to avoid subsequent failures during the operation of the machine.

[0048] Within the scope of the present invention, when at least one characteristic of the installation element includes at least one of the following, another advantage can be achieved:

[0049] - the allowable temperature range applicable to the installation element;

[0050] - the air humidity range applicable to the installation element;

[0051] - the rated voltage applicable to the installation element;

[0052] - the minimum bending radius applicable to the installation element;

[0053] - the minimum and / or maximum mechanical load applicable to the installation element;

[0054] - the allowable acceleration applicable to the installation element (10);

[0055] - the minimum and / or maximum number of conductors within the plug connector and / or cable;

[0056] - the coding of the plug connector, such as coded as signal lines A, B, C, D or X and / or as power lines A, K, L and / or as data lines A, B, D, X and Y and / or coded with an LED and / or as a shielded or unshielded plug connector and / or a hybrid cable (in particular a combination of the above cables);

[0057] - the specific cable outlet angle applicable to the installation element, preferably an outlet angle of the plug in the range of 0° to 90°, preferably in the range of 45° to 60°;

[0058] - Specific connection terminals suitable for the mounting element, in particular as M8, M12, M23, RJ45, 7 / 8 (seven eighths), MQ15, MSUD (valve plug), Deutsch plug or RJ45PP connection terminals;

[0059] - Specific types of plug connectors suitable for the mounting element, in particular plug connectors of the female-female, female-male, male-female or male-male type, H, T and Y connectors, and distributors;

[0060] - Specific applications suitable for the mounting element, in particular as AS interface, Ethernet, motor, fieldbus application or sensor / actuator line;

[0061] - Corresponding mounting forms depending on the environment suitable for the mounting element;

[0062] - Safety and / or redundancy requirements suitable for the mounting element.

[0063] According to another feasible solution, it may be stipulated that at least one characteristic of the mounting environment includes at least one of the following:

[0064] - Temperature range set as air temperature in the mounting environment;

[0065] - Air humidity set in the mounting environment;

[0066] - Humidity set in the mounting environment;

[0067] - Voltage set as operating voltage for the mounting element (10);

[0068] - Chemical resistance set in the mounting environment;

[0069] - Air pressure set in the mounting environment;

[0070] - Ultraviolet irradiation set in the mounting environment;

[0071] - Bacterial contamination set in the mounting environment;

[0072] - Biological contamination set in the mounting environment (such as animal substances, etc.);

[0073] - Permissible acceleration suitable for the mounting element (10);

[0074] - Vibration set in the mounting environment;

[0075] - Noise pollution set in the mounting environment;

[0076] - Structure-borne sound set in the mounting environment;

[0077] - A corresponding installation form depending on the application industry to which the installation element applies.

[0078] This ensures that problems can be determined more precisely during installation. In addition, this has the advantage that more effective operation suggestions can be guaranteed for a more suitable installation element, or the applicability of the installation element can be evaluated more effectively even in the case of deviations in the measured characteristics.

[0079] It is also conceivable that checking the applicability of the installation element for installation in the installation environment includes the following steps:

[0080] - Preferably determining at least one characteristic of the installation element from a database and / or data memory, where the at least one characteristic respectively defines the requirements for the parameters of the installation environment and / or gives the technical parameters of the installation element;

[0081] - Preferably determining at least one characteristic of the installation environment by measurement and / or from a database and / or data memory, where the at least one characteristic respectively defines the requirements for the technical parameters of the installation element and / or gives the parameters of the installation environment;

[0082] - Conducting a compatibility assessment by checking at least one requirement to determine that the applicability of the installation element for installation in the installation environment is sufficient when the requirement is met, otherwise determining it as insufficient.

[0083] This ensures that a more precise check of applicability can be carried out during installation. In addition, this has the advantage that more effective operation suggestions can be guaranteed for a more suitable installation element, or the applicability of the installation element can be evaluated more effectively even in the case of deviations in the measured characteristics.

[0084] Within the scope of the present invention, it is also conceivable that the method includes the following additional steps:

[0085] - Preferably receiving the identifier of the installation element from a reading device, preferably via a scanner, in order to check the applicability of the installation element to the installation environment;

[0086] - Based on the received identifier, reading at least one characteristic of the installation element from the database.

[0087] This can ensure that when checking the applicability to the installation environment, the installation element and its characteristics are matched more simply, more quickly and error-free.

[0088] Within the scope of the present invention, it can be stipulated that the method includes the following additional steps when checking applicability:

[0089] - Checking whether at least one characteristic (especially temperature and / or air humidity and / or voltage) of the installation element conforms to at least one reference value and / or limit value.

[0090] This has the advantage that the inspection results can be provided more quickly. In addition, this enables a more efficient and targeted inspection of the applicability regarding individual characteristics, in order to ensure a better and more specific evaluation and operating advice.

[0091] It is also conceivable that, if it is determined that at least one characteristic of the mounting element deviates from at least one reference value and / or limit value, the method comprises the following steps:

[0092] - Simulating the influence of the deviation in order to determine the suitability of the mounting element for installation in the installation environment based on this influence;

[0093] - If it is determined that the suitability is insufficient, specifying another mounting element which has a higher suitability for use in the installation environment and / or ensuring the function of the machine;

[0094] - Generating an output of installation information based on the simulation results, preferably outputting a list of mounting elements suitable for the installation environment.

[0095] This enables the deviation to be checked in the form of a suitable mounting element. This optimization can be achieved by simulating and outputting the influence of the deviation. By means of the simulation, it is advantageously possible to determine whether the specified mounting element is an alternative with a higher suitability for the installation environment. Similarly, by means of the simulation, it can be determined whether the specified mounting element is an alternative that meets all the necessary characteristics in the installation environment.

[0096] Within the scope of the present invention, it is also conceivable that, if it is determined that at least one characteristic of the mounting element deviates from at least one reference value and / or limit value, the method comprises the following steps:

[0097] - Simulating the negative influence of the deviation in order to specify another mounting element by using which the negative influence can be eliminated;

[0098] - Generating an output of installation information based on the simulation results, preferably outputting a list of mounting elements suitable for the installation environment.

[0099] This enables the deviation to be checked in the form of a suitable other mounting element. By simulating the negative influence, it is advantageously possible to determine whether another specified mounting element can eliminate the negative influence of the deviation during installation.

[0100] The subject matter of the present invention also includes a data processing device which has means for performing the method according to any one of the preceding claims. Thus, the data processing device according to the present invention has the same advantages as the method according to the present invention described in detail. The device can be at least one or exactly one part of at least one machine.

[0101] The subject matter of the present invention also includes a computer program, in particular a computer program product, which includes instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform 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.

[0102] As the computer, a data processing device can be provided, such as the device according to the present invention, which executes the computer program. The computer can have at least one processor for executing the computer program. A non-volatile data memory can also be provided, in which the computer program is stored, and the processor can read the computer program from the memory for execution.

[0103] It is also conceivable that the computer includes at least one integrated circuit, such as a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application-specific standard product (ASSP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or a similar device. The computer can also have at least one interface for data exchange, such as an Ethernet interface, a local area network (LAN) interface, a wireless local area network (WLAN) interface, a system-on-chip (SoC) interface or other functional interfaces, such as a Bluetooth interface or a near-field communication (NFC) interface. In addition, the computer can be implemented as one or more control devices, that is, it can also be implemented as a system consisting of control devices. For example, the computer can also be provided in the cloud and / or as a server to provide data processing services for local applications through the interface. Similarly, the computer can also be implemented as a mobile device, such as a smartphone.

[0104] The subject matter of the present invention can also be a computer-readable storage medium, which includes the computer program according to the present invention. The storage medium can be designed, for example, as a data memory, such as a hard disk and / or a non-volatile memory and / or a memory card. The storage medium can be integrated in the computer, for example.

[0105] In addition, the method according to the present invention can also be executed as a computer-implemented method.

[0106] Other advantages, features and details of the present invention can be derived from the following description, in which embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Here, the features mentioned in the claims and the description can each constitute a key part of the present invention alone or in any combination. Description of the Drawings

[0107] To better understand the present disclosure, reference is made to the following drawings:

[0108] Figure 1: Central circuit connection of the machine via the control cabinet.

[0109] Figure 2 : Distributed circuit connection according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] Figure 3 : Schematic representation of parts of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] Figure 4 : Schematic representation of method details according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Figure 5 : Schematic representation of method steps according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0113] 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, installation by multiple users at the same time and in parallel may be advantageous for time and logistics reasons. In order to achieve a smooth installation process, the operating status should be digitally recorded automatically, individually for the user and in real time. Throughout the life cycle of the equipment, it is important to have complete documentation of all relevant information (including documentation on the suitability of installed parts and / or components) for different reasons (e.g. maintenance planning, system diagnostics).

[0114] During the installation process, it may happen that the actual on-site conditions do not correspond to the planned ones. As a result, the originally planned components no longer meet the actual environmental conditions. In this case, a method and a system can provide support, which automatically matches the product characteristics with the environmental characteristics during the installation process and checks the compatibility. If there are incompatibilities, prompts or alternative suggestions generated and output by the system will support the user.

[0115] exist Figure 1 The central circuit connection realized by the control cabinet 9 is schematically shown in FIG. Figure 2 In contrast, the decentralized circuit connection is realized by means of spatially decentralized electrical components 4 in the machine 1. Figure 1 All devices 5 (such as sensors and actuators) shown in FIG. are directly connected to the control cabinet 9. Figure 2In a decentralized circuit connection, multiple components 4, in particular connection modules, can be used. These connection modules, like the control cabinet 9, are capable of coupling the device 5 to a control device 8 (such as an SPS). However, the connection modules 4 can be arranged dispersedly near the device 5. Thus, each connection module 4 only partially connects the device 5, where the connection modules 4 together, or for example one and / or more connection modules 4 perform the entire circuit connection through their respective one and / or more hubs 6. To be able to configure and / or control the connection modules 4 centrally, the master module 3 can be arranged upstream of the multiple individual connection modules 4. It is also possible to further subdivide the circuit connection through at least one hub 6.

[0116] In Figure 3 is shown a part of the system 2 according to an embodiment of the invention, which can be used for computer-aided inspection of mounting elements for a mounting environment when spatially dispersedly arranging electrical components 4 in a mounting 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 of a mounting element 10 (preferably a cable 10 or a component 10). In addition, the system 2 can have at least one electrical component 4, preferably in the form of a connection module 4, for connecting to the mounting element 10 and other mounting elements 10. Similarly, a data processing device 30 can be part of the system 2, where the data processing device 30 can include means for performing the steps of a method 100 according to an embodiment of the invention. The identifier 11 can be encoded in a machine-readable code 12 associated with (in particular provided on) the mounting element 10, where the machine-readable code 12 can be read in a machine-readable manner by the detection device 22. Thus, the user can scan the code 12 with the detection device 22, thereby transmitting the identifier 11 to the data processing device 30.

[0117] In addition, the component 4 and at least one computer 30, 31 and / or a control device 8 can be interconnected via a bus system 21 for two-way communication, where the two-way communication can be based on the communication protocol of a fieldbus system, in particular based on the ProfiNet standard, the Ethernet / IP standard or the 802.3 standard, and / or the two-way communication can be carried out in a wired manner via the bus system 21, or in a wireless manner via Bluetooth or WLAN (based on the IEEE 802.11-compliant standard or based on a mobile telecommunications standard). To be able to operate the component 4, the component 4 can also be connected to a power supply 13.

[0118] In addition, a computer program 20 is also shown, which includes instructions that, when the program is executed by a computer 30, cause the computer to perform the steps of a method 100 according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0119] In Figure 4 andFigure 5 In this, the method steps of method 100 are visually shown, in which a computer-aided inspection of installation elements (especially components and / or cables and / or plug connectors) is carried out for the installation environment. According to Figure 5 In the first method step 101 shown in this, it can be specified to check the suitability of the installation elements for installation in the installation environment. Here, the check is preferably carried out based on an assessment of the compatibility between at least one characteristic of the installation element and at least one characteristic of the installation environment (especially temperature and / or air humidity and / or voltage and / or acceleration). Subsequently, according to the second method step 102, at least one installation information can be generated based on the check result in the first method step to provide support for the user during the installation process. Then, according to the third method step 103, the output of the at least one generated installation information for the user can be started.

[0120] By recording the inspection and installation situation, that is, installation documentation, for example, at least one of the following information can be recorded: the work steps of the user and additional information about these work steps, such as the processing duration, on which machine the work is carried out, which user (for example, which installer or assembler) carried out these activities at what time, which components have been wired and / or routed, whether the assembly steps have been completed, which port / connection point is used, whether there are unterminated cables and what the characteristics of the unterminated cables are (for example, length), environmental parameters (for example, temperature, air humidity), the current project status, the protection level (for example, IP67). In addition, when there are deviations in the verified installation operations, the user (especially the worker) can input the reasons, justifications or objections. The installation documentation can be stored in a database, for example. If necessary, the user can trigger this documentation through physical operations (button press, screen operation, double click).

[0121] In Figure 4 this, method 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention and its more details are visually shown. The user can first log in as a user 301 through the computer 31 (such as a tablet computer or a laptop computer) shown in Figure 3 this. For this purpose, the user can use the graphical user interface 32 provided by the computer 31. Similarly, the project selection 302 can also be carried out through the user interface 32, for example, by this operation, the installation specification 200 of the required project is loaded. In this way, the inspection of the installation elements 10 (especially components 10 and / or cables 10 and / or plug connectors 10) for the installation environment can be started 303.

[0122] When installing the installation component 10 or the component 10 (such as the cable 10) in the installation environment, according to method step 304, first identify the component 10 through a reading device to prepare for inspection and installation. For example, the identifier 11 may include information about one or more technical characteristics of the cable, which may particularly include information such as the length of the cable 10. The identifier 11 can be read or acquired by the reading device through scanning, where the identifier 11 can be set on the cable 11 as a machine-readable code or a printed code, for example. Optionally, this identification step can be repeated by the reading device during the execution of the method or at a time point considered appropriate by the user to acquire the identifier again.

[0123] According to method step 305, subsequently, for example, an inspection is carried out based on the matching of the product and / or material characteristics of the cable 10 with the environmental conditions in terms of compatibility. That is, it is checked whether the cable 10 (the actual component) used conforms to the planned cable (the expected component) according to the product characteristics. A comparison is made based on the acquired and measured environmental conditions to check whether the installation environment (the actual environment) conforms to the planned environment (the expected environment), that is, whether the characteristics of the installation environment match the characteristics of the planned environment. In other words, an inspection is carried out on the compatibility or lack of consistency between the component 10 and the installation environment.

[0124] If the component and the environmental conditions conform to the plan, installation information is generated according to method step 306a, for example, as a confirmation of the suitability of the component 10, and information output is initiated according to method step 307a.

[0125] If the characteristics are inconsistent, according to method step 306, either a prompt and / or an error message is generated, and then the output is initiated according to step 307. Alternatively, in the case of inconsistent characteristics, according to step 306, it is also possible to initiate a search for possible alternative components for the component 10, which may be more suitable for the actual installation environment. This option is generated as a prompt in step 306 and the output to the user is initiated in step 307. Optionally, in the case of inconsistent characteristics, according to method step 306, installation instructions or operation suggestions can also be generated and the output is initiated in step 307.

[0126] When it is determined during the inspection that there is a deviation between the actual situation and the expected situation, optionally according to method step 308, the planning data storing the product characteristics and / or the planning data storing the environmental characteristics can be accessed. Subsequently, in method step 309, the product characteristics and specifications of the component 10 can be matched with the specifications of the predetermined component stored in the planning file.

[0127] In other words, when performing the check according to method step 305, as a result, it can be determined that if the actual component matches the expected component and the actual environment matches the expected environment, then there is no deviation between the planning document and the actual situation, and thus optionally an applicability confirmation is output to the user. However, if, for example, the actual component matches the expected component but the actual environment is different from the expected environment, then in step 306a, this information is generated as installation information in the form of a prompt, and in step 307a, it is initiated as an output, which includes information that there is a deviation between the actual environment and the planned environment.

[0128] When it is determined that there is such a deviation, that is, the reference value or limit value of a certain characteristic of the component or the environment is exceeded or not reached, optionally according to method step 310, the impact of the exceeding or non-reaching of at least one reference value or limit value due to the deviation of the environmental characteristic from the planned situation is determined by simulation. During the simulation process, it may occur that the function of the component is not affected or the impact is not significant. Therefore, the planned component is suitable for use in the unplanned installation environment. Or the simulation result shows that the function of the component is significantly affected. Then the output result indicates that the planned component is not suitable for use in the unplanned environment. In both cases, the corresponding results will be generated and output as warning messages. In this way, the user will get the information that the planned component is not suitable for use in the unplanned environment and the function is significantly affected.

[0129] During the simulation process, for example, in the analysis, optionally the requirements of the actually measured environmental characteristics are combined with the characteristics of the planned component to create a requirements profile for a suitable component. Then, for example, this requirements profile is used as the minimum requirements for a suitable component, so that all components stored in the database can be analyzed to see if they have the best match with at least the required characteristics. The check is performed by comparing product information, for example, by connecting to a product data management system or a product life cycle management system, which is also capable of automatically or manually reading and maintaining data.

[0130] Optionally, according to method step 311, a suitable alternative component that is suitable for use in the unplanned environment and ensures the machine function can be searched for. Subsequently, for example, all components stored in the database are automatically compared with the specifications of the planned component for the best match. It is stipulated that a suitable alternative component is a component that is different in at least one characteristic where the planned component is not suitable for use in the unplanned environment, that is, it meets the function-related limit values.

[0131] When searching according to step 311, the following situations may also occur: either none of the components 10 that may be available at the installation site can guarantee to meet the minimum requirements of the unplanned environmental characteristics, or there is at least one suitable component 10 for installation in another warehouse. In the latter case, for example, a list of suitable alternative components is generated and output to the user for selection. Optionally, material ordering can also be performed according to the user's selection.

[0132] In another case, the search result may be that none of the available components and none of the components in stock in the warehouse meet the minimum requirements of the unplanned environmental characteristics obtained from the simulation. Then, for example, a prompt is generated and output to the user, informing that there is no more suitable component than the component scheduled in the plan.

[0133] In addition, the search result may also be that one of the available components 10 meets the minimum requirements of the unplanned environmental characteristics and is therefore suitable as an alternative component to the planned component. Such a result can then be generated as installation information, including the alternative component as an installation suggestion. Then the suggestion can be output to the user.

[0134] Although some aspects have been described in connection with the device, it is obvious that these aspects also constitute a description of the corresponding method, where the element or device corresponds to the method step or the characteristics of the method step. Similarly, the aspects described in connection with the method step also constitute a description of the corresponding module or element or characteristic of the corresponding device.

[0135] 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, laptop, tablet, or 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 at different locations such as local clients and / or one or more remote server farms and / or data centers). The computer system can include any circuit or combination of circuits. In one embodiment, the computer system can include one or more processors of any type. As used herein, the term "processor" can refer to any type of computing circuit, such as a microprocessor, microcontroller, complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, graphics processor, digital signal processor (DSP), multi-core processor, field programmable gate array (FPGA), or any other type of processor or processing circuit. Other types of circuits that may be included in the computer system can be customer-specific circuits, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc., such as one or more circuits (e.g., communication circuits) in wireless devices such as cellular phones, tablets, laptops, two-way radios, and similar electronic systems. The computer system can include one or more storage devices, which can 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 discs (CDs), flash cards, digital video discs (DVDs), etc. The computer system can also include a display device, one or more speakers, and a keyboard and / or control device, which can 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.

[0136] Some or all of the method steps can be performed by (or using) a hardware device, such as a processor, microprocessor, programmable computer, or electronic circuit. In some embodiments, some or more of the main method steps can be performed by such a device.

[0137] Depending on the specific implementation requirements, the embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in hardware or software. This implementation can be carried out using non-transmissible storage media (such as digital storage media, such as floppy disks, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, CDs, read-only memories (ROMs), programmable read-only memories (PROMs), erasable programmable read-only memories (EPROMs), electrically erasable programmable read-only memories (EEPROMs) or flash memories), on which electronically readable control signals are stored, and these control signals interact (or can interact) with a programmable computer system to perform the corresponding methods. Therefore, this digital storage media can be computer-readable.

[0138] Some embodiments of the present invention include a data carrier having electronically readable control signals capable of cooperating with a programmable computer system to perform one of the methods described herein.

[0139] Generally speaking, the embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a computer program product, which includes program code, and when this 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.

[0140] Other embodiments include a computer program stored on a machine-readable medium for performing one of the methods described herein.

[0141] In other words, therefore, one embodiment of the present invention is a computer program, which includes program code for performing any of the methods described herein when the computer program runs on a computer.

[0142] Therefore, another embodiment of the present invention is a storage medium (or data carrier or computer-readable medium) on which a computer program for performing any of the methods described herein is stored when executed by a processor. This data carrier, digital storage medium or recording medium is generally tangible and / or non-transmissible. Another embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus including a processor and this storage medium.

[0143] Therefore, yet another embodiment of the present invention is a data stream or signal sequence representing a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein. For example, this data stream or signal sequence can be configured to be transmitted through a data communication link (such as through the Internet).

[0144] Another embodiment includes a processing device, such as a computer or a programmable logic device, which is configured or adapted to perform any of the methods described herein.

[0145] Another embodiment includes a computer installed with a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein.

[0146] Another embodiment of the present invention includes a device 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 can be, for example, a computer, a mobile device, a storage device, etc. The device or system can include, for example, a file server for transmitting the computer program to the recipient.

[0147] In some embodiments, a programmable logic device (e.g., a field programmable gate array) can be used to perform some or all of the functions of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, the field programmable gate array can cooperate with a microprocessor to perform one of the methods described herein. Generally, these methods are preferably performed by any hardware device.

[0148] List of reference numerals

[0149] 1 Machine, device

[0150] 2 System

[0151] 3 Main module

[0152] 4 Module, switch, component, connection module

[0153] 5 Device, sensor, actuator

[0154] 6 Hub

[0155] 8 Control device, SPS

[0156] 9 Control cabinet

[0157] 10 Mounting element

[0158] 11 Identifier

[0159] 12 Identification medium, machine-readable code

[0160] 13 Power supply

[0161] 20 Computer program

[0162] 21 Bus system

[0163] 22 Detection device

[0164] 30 Device

[0165] 31 Computer

[0166] 32 User interface

[0167] 33 Data memory

[0168] 41 Display element

[0169] 42 Connection point, socket

[0170] 100 Method

[0171] 101 First method step

[0172] 102 Second method step

[0173] 103 Third method step

[0174] 200 Installation specification

[0175] 301 User login

[0176] 302 Project selection

[0177] 303 Start guidance

[0178] 304 Identify

[0179] 305 Check

[0180] 306 Generate

[0181] 307 Start output

[0182] 308 Access stored data

[0183] 309 Compare attributes

[0184] 310 Simulate

[0185] 311 Search

Claims

1. A method (100) for computer-aided inspection of mounting elements (10), in particular parts and / or cables and / or plug connectors, during the installation of spatially distributed electrical components (4) in an installation environment, preferably in a machine (1), in particular a device (1), wherein, The method (100) comprises the following steps: Check (101) the suitability of the mounting element (10) for mounting in the mounting environment, preferably based on an assessment of the compatibility between at least one characteristic of the mounting element (10) and at least one characteristic of the mounting environment, in particular temperature and / or air humidity and / or voltage and / or acceleration; Generate (102) at least one piece of mounting information based on the result of the check (101) to support the user during the mounting process; and Initiate (103) the output of the at least one piece of generated mounting information to the user.

2. The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one piece of mounting information includes mounting instructions for supporting the user during the mounting process; Wherein, preferably, the initiation (103) of the output comprises at least one of the following steps: Initiate the output of the mounting instructions as an indication of the connection point (42) of the electrical component (4) for connecting the mounting element (10), and / or output an indication of the suitability of the mounting element (10), preferably indicating to the user that the mounting element (10) is suitable for use in the mounting environment; Initiate the visual output of the mounting instructions, preferably via a graphical user interface (32) and / or by means of augmented reality technology and / or via a signal indicator of the electrical component (4); Initiate the auditory output of the mounting instructions, in particular voice output.

3. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, When it is determined according to the result of the check (101) that the suitability of the mounting element (10) for mounting in the mounting environment is insufficient, at least one of the following steps is performed during the initiation (103) of the output: Initiate the output of a warning prompt and / or an error message, preferably a warning prompt and / or an error message indicating that the mounting element (10) is not suitable for use in the mounting environment and that the function of the mounting element (10) will be significantly affected; Initiate the correction of the connection in the mounting specification (200); Initiate the output of the mounting instructions and / or operation suggestions, preferably giving an indication of another mounting element (10) that is more suitable for mounting in the mounting environment than the inspected mounting element (10).

4. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The method (100) further comprises the following steps: Automatically record the suitability of the mounting element (10) according to the result of the check (101).

5. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The method (100) further comprises the following steps: Provide mounting data of the mounting element (10), in particular of a cable and / or a plug connector, wherein the mounting data includes planning data of at least one characteristic of the mounting element (10).

6. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The method (100) further comprises the following steps: Provide mounting data of the mounting environment, wherein the mounting data includes planning data of at least one characteristic of the mounting environment.

7. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one characteristic of the mounting element (10) includes at least one of the following: The allowable temperature range to which the mounting element (10) is applicable; The air humidity range to which the mounting element (10) is applicable; The rated voltage to which the mounting element (10) is applicable; The allowable acceleration applicable to the mounting element (10); The minimum bending radius applicable to the mounting element (10); The minimum and / or maximum mechanical load applicable to the mounting element; The minimum and / or maximum number of core wires in the plug connector and / or cable; The coding of the plug connector, as coding for signal lines A, B, C, D or X, and / or as coding for power lines A, K, L, and / or as coding for data lines A, B, D, X, Y, and / or coding with LED, and / or as coding for shielded or unshielded plug connectors, and / or hybrid cables, especially combinations of the above cables; The specific cable lead-out angle applicable to the mounting element, preferably the lead-out angle of the plug in the range of 0° to 90°, more preferably in the range of 45° to 60°; The specific connection end applicable to the mounting element, especially as M8, M12, M23, RJ45, 7 / 8 (seven eighths), MQ15, MSUD (valve plug), Deutsch plug or RJ45PP connection end; The specific type of plug connector applicable to the mounting element, especially plug connectors of the female-female, female-male, male-female or male-male type, H, T and Y type connectors and distributors; The specific application applicable to the mounting element, especially as AS interface, Ethernet, motor, fieldbus application or sensor / actuator line; The corresponding mounting form according to the environment applicable to the mounting element; The safety and / or redundancy requirements applicable to the mounting element.

8. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one characteristic of the mounting environment includes at least one of the following: The temperature range set as the air temperature in the mounting environment; The air humidity set in the mounting environment; The humidity set in the mounting environment; The voltage set as the operating voltage for the mounting element (10); The chemical resistance set in the mounting environment; The air pressure set in the mounting environment; The ultraviolet irradiation set in the mounting environment; The bacterial contamination set in the mounting environment; The biological contamination set in the mounting environment (such as animal substances, etc.); The allowable acceleration applicable to the mounting element (10); The vibration set in the mounting environment; The noise pollution set in the mounting environment; The structure-borne sound set in the mounting environment; The corresponding mounting form according to the application industry applicable to the mounting element.

9. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Checking (101) the suitability of the mounting element (10) for installation in the mounting environment includes the following steps: Preferably determining at least one characteristic of the mounting element (10) from a database and / or data memory, wherein the at least one characteristic respectively defines the requirements for the parameters of the mounting environment and / or gives the technical parameters of the mounting element (10); Preferably determining at least one characteristic of the mounting environment by measurement and / or from a database and / or data memory, wherein the at least one characteristic respectively defines the requirements for the technical parameters of the mounting element (10) and / or gives the parameters of the mounting environment; The compatibility assessment is carried out by checking at least one requirement, so as to determine that the suitability of the installation element (10) for installation in the installation environment is sufficient when the requirement is met, otherwise it is determined to be insufficient.

10. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The method (100) further comprises the following steps: Receiving, preferably from a reading device, preferably via a scanner, an identifier (11) of the installation element (10) in order to check the suitability of the installation element (10) for the installation environment; Reading at least one characteristic of the installation element (10) from a database based on the received identifier (11).

11. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, When checking (101) the suitability, the method (100) further comprises the following steps: Checking whether at least one characteristic of the installation element, in particular temperature and / or air humidity and / or voltage, conforms to at least one reference value and / or limit value.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein When it is determined that there is a deviation between at least one characteristic of the installation element (10) and the at least one reference value and / or limit value, the following steps are performed: Simulating the influence of the deviation in order to determine the suitability of the installation element (10) for installation in the installation environment based on the influence; Designating another installation element (10) if the determined suitability is insufficient, the other installation element having higher suitability for use in the installation environment and / or being able to ensure the function of the machine (1); and Generating an output of installation information based on the result of the simulation, wherein preferably a list of installation elements (10) suitable for the installation environment is output.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein When it is determined that there is a deviation between at least one characteristic of the installation element and the at least one reference value and / or limit value, the following steps are performed: Simulating the negative influence of the deviation in order to designate another installation element (10), by using which the negative influence can be offset; Generating an output of installation information based on the result of the simulation, wherein preferably a list of installation elements (10) suitable for the installation environment is output.

14. A device (30) for data processing, the device (30) comprising means for performing the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. A computer program (20) comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer (31), cause the computer (31) to perform the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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