Station management system and method based on RS485 communication

Abstract

The invention is suitable for the technical field of communication, and provides a station management system based on RS485 communication, and an upper computer is connected in series with a plurality of switching devices through RS485 conversion lines; each switching device is connected with one station counter, and each station counter corresponds to a station on the production line; the upper computer is used for sending a query instruction to the station counter through the RS485 conversion line and the switching device; and the station counter is used for obtaining corresponding production data in response to the query instruction, and sending the corresponding production data to the upper computer through the RS485 conversion line and the switching device. The system is easy and convenient to install, and misconnection and reworking risks are reduced. And each switching device corresponds to one station counter, so that the identification is clear, and the fault positioning is faster. The addition, deletion or replacement of the counter does not affect the bus connection, and the stop time is reduced. And a main station polling and query-response mechanism is adopted, so that conflicts are avoided, the packet loss rate is low, and the real-time performance is good. RS485 differential transmission is achieved, interference resistance is achieved, the distance is long, and the hardware cost is low.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of communication technology, and in particular relates to a workstation management system and method based on RS485 communication. BACKGROUND

[0002] On production lines, companies need to collect real-time data on output, no-go quantities, alarms, and faults at each workstation for statistical analysis and efficiency improvement. Common existing practices include PLC-based networking solutions and wireless solutions such as LoRa and Wi-Fi. PLC solutions offer powerful functionality and high stability, but have higher hardware and implementation costs; wireless solutions require less cabling and are more flexible, but are susceptible to interference from metal and electromagnetic fields in industrial environments, making it difficult to balance link stability with maintenance costs.

[0003] The RS485 bus has advantages such as low cost, strong anti-interference ability, long transmission distance, and easy multi-point connection, making it suitable for workstation data acquisition. However, common problems in existing RS485 applications include: non-standard wiring and allocation, inconvenient address configuration, inflexible node addition and deletion, easy conflicts between polling and reporting causing packet loss, lack of online upgrade capability, and easy data loss when power is off.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a low-cost workstation management system based on RS485, which can be uniformly polled by the host computer and supports time-sharing reporting from the workstation side. The address setting is simple, and the node expansion and disassembly are convenient. It can ensure real-time and reliable data upload and facilitate maintenance and upgrades. SUMMARY

[0005] This application provides a workstation management system and method based on RS485 communication, which can solve the above problems.

[0006] In the first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a workstation management system based on RS485 communication, including: a host computer, an RS485 conversion cable, several adapters, and several workstation counters; The host computer is connected in series with several of the adapters via the RS485 conversion cable; Each of the aforementioned transfer devices is connected to one of the aforementioned workstation counters, and each of the aforementioned workstation counters corresponds to a workstation on the production line; The host computer is used to send query commands to the workstation counter via the RS485 conversion line and the adapter; The workstation counter is used to respond to the query command, obtain the corresponding production data, and send the corresponding production data to the host computer through the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

[0007] Furthermore, the workstation counter includes at least a microcontroller and buttons, the buttons including a call button, number keys, and an confirmation button; Each of the adapters is connected to one of the microcontrollers, and the microcontrollers are connected to the buttons. The microcontroller is used to respond to a user call command and determine whether it has received the production data set by the user via the numeric keypad; wherein, the user call command is issued by the user via the call key; If so, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a confirmation command from the user via the confirmation key; If so, the microcontroller is used to report the production data to the host computer via the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

[0008] Furthermore, the workstation counter also includes a buzzer and an alarm light; If the microcontroller receives the confirmation command issued by the user via the confirmation key, it controls the workstation counter to enter the alarm state. Within a preset reporting period, the microcontroller controls the buzzer to operate according to a preset beeping mode and controls the alarm light to operate according to a preset alarm mode.

[0009] Furthermore, the workstation counter includes at least a microcontroller and a display board; Each of the aforementioned adapters is connected to one of the aforementioned microcontrollers, and the microcontrollers are connected to the display panel; The microcontroller is used to respond to the initialization completion command, acquire the actual production data, and control the display panel to display the actual production data.

[0010] Furthermore, the workstation counter also includes an external interface and buttons; the external interface is connected to the corresponding workstation foot switch; the buttons include an increment button. The microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a count increment command sent by the user through the external interface or the increment key; If so, the microcontroller is used to add the actual production data and save the added actual production data.

[0011] Furthermore, the workstation counter also includes buttons, including a view button; When the workstation counter is in viewing mode, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a viewing command sent by the user through the viewing key; If so, the microcontroller is used to acquire the next production data and control the display panel to display the next production data; wherein, the next production data is the production data corresponding to the next viewing mode; Furthermore, the workstation counter also includes buttons, which include numeric keys and an confirmation key; After acquiring the actual production data, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a confirmation command sent by the user through the confirmation key; If so, the microcontroller is used to control the workstation counter to enter the setting mode corresponding to the actual output data, and to determine whether the current actual output data set by the user through the numeric key is received and whether the confirmation command issued by the user through the confirmation key is received again. If not, the microcontroller is used to respond to the host computer's data read command and send the actual production data to the host computer through the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

[0012] Furthermore, the workstation counter includes at least a microcontroller and buttons, the buttons including numeric keys and an confirmation key; Each of the adapters is connected to one of the microcontrollers, and the microcontrollers are connected to the buttons. When the workstation counter is in viewing mode, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a confirmation command sent by the user through the confirmation key; If so, the microcontroller is used to control the workstation counter to enter the setting mode corresponding to the current viewing mode, and to determine whether the current production data set by the user through the numeric keypad has been received; wherein, the current production data is the production data corresponding to the current viewing mode; If so, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received another confirmation command from the user via the confirmation key; If so, the microcontroller is used to store the current production data.

[0013] Furthermore, if no confirmation command is received from the user via the confirmation key, the microcontroller controls the workstation counter to return to the viewing mode.

[0014] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a workstation management method based on RS485 communication, including: The host computer is connected in series with several adapters via an RS485 conversion cable; Each of the aforementioned transfer devices is connected to a workstation counter, and each of the aforementioned workstation counters corresponds to a workstation on the production line; The host computer sends a query command to the workstation counter via the RS485 conversion line and the adapter; The workstation counter responds to the query command, obtains the corresponding workstation production data, and sends the corresponding workstation production data to the host computer through the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

[0015] In this embodiment, the workstation management system based on RS485 communication includes: a host computer, an RS485 conversion cable, several adapters, and several workstation counters. The host computer is connected in series with several adapters via the RS485 conversion cable. Each adapter is connected to one workstation counter, and each workstation counter corresponds to a workstation on the production line. The host computer sends query commands to the workstation counters via the RS485 conversion cable and adapters. The workstation counters respond to the query commands, obtain the corresponding production data, and send the corresponding production data back to the host computer via the RS485 conversion cable and adapters. The bus-serial architecture simplifies field wiring. The daisy-chain connection of the host computer—RS485 conversion cable—adapter makes the communication path clear and the wiring standardized, reducing the risk of incorrect connections and rework. Each adapter connects to a single workstation counter, forming a clear mapping of "one adapter corresponding to one workstation," making installation, identification, and maintenance intuitive and facilitating faster fault location. Each workstation counter is connected to the bus via its own adapter. Adding, deleting, or replacing a single counter does not interrupt the bus's continuity, allowing for flexible node expansion and maintenance and reducing downtime. A unified communication mechanism using a host computer (master station polling) and counter responses avoids bus conflicts caused by multiple simultaneous communication points, significantly reducing packet loss and improving real-time and deterministic communication. Based on RS485 differential communication, it offers advantages such as long-distance operation, anti-interference capabilities, and multi-point access. Compared to PLCs or wireless networking, it has lower hardware and implementation costs, resulting in a higher overall cost-performance ratio. The query-response data acquisition method facilitates unified timing management. The host computer can perform time-division multiplexing by address and frequency, ensuring data consistency and facilitating statistical analysis and quality traceability. The system is highly scalable; expansion can be achieved by adding adapters and workstation counters as needed, without requiring significant modifications to existing production lines. The host computer can quickly identify offline nodes through polling timeouts and address recognition, enabling rapid replacement based on a one-to-one correspondence, shortening maintenance cycles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a workstation management system based on RS485 communication provided in the first embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a workstation management method based on RS485 communication, provided in the first embodiment of this application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] In the following description, specific details such as particular system architectures and techniques are set forth for illustrative purposes and not for limitation, in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this application. However, those skilled in the art will understand that this application may also be implemented in other embodiments without these specific details. In other instances, detailed descriptions of well-known systems, apparatuses, circuits, and methods have been omitted so as not to obscure the description of this application with unnecessary detail.

[0019] It should be understood that, when used in this application specification and the appended claims, the term "comprising" indicates the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components and / or a collection thereof.

[0020] It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used in this application specification and the appended claims means any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0021] As used in this application specification and the appended claims, the term "if" may be interpreted, depending on the context, as "when," "once," "in response to determination," or "in response to detection." Similarly, the phrase "if determined" or "if detected [the described condition or event]" may be interpreted, depending on the context, as meaning "once determined," "in response to determination," "once detected [the described condition or event]," or "in response to detection [the described condition or event]."

[0022] Furthermore, in the description of this application and the appended claims, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0023] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as described in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0024] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a workstation management system based on RS485 communication provided in the first embodiment of this application. The workstation management system based on RS485 communication in this embodiment includes: a host computer, an RS485 conversion cable, several adapters, and several workstation counters.

[0025] The host computer can be used to run the data acquisition and management software, and is responsible for polling, parameter distribution, alarm handling, data storage and IAP upgrades.

[0026] An RS485 converter cable can be used to convert the USB / serial port of a host computer into an RS485 differential signal, which is suitable for long-distance and interference-resistant transmission.

[0027] The adapter can be used to standardize the distribution of 24V power supply and A / B differential lines to each workstation counter, providing a "splitter / one-to-two" function with one input and one output (bus through) + one branch (to the workstation counter), and integrating protection against reverse insertion, overcurrent protection, terminal selection, ESD / TVS, etc.

[0028] The workstation counter can be used with a microcontroller as its core, featuring an RS485 interface, keypad and digital tube display, buzzer / indicator light, external foot pedal / alarm light interface, and storage of count / NG / fault data. The address can be set via keypad and IAP is supported.

[0029] In this embodiment, the "power supply + communication" is standardized and merged to reduce the probability of wiring harness and incorrect connection; modular access is achieved through adapter devices to form a unified interface standard.

[0030] The host computer is connected in series with several of the aforementioned adapters via the RS485 conversion cable.

[0031] The host computer is connected in series with several adapters via an RS485 conversion line.

[0032] The connection method can be: host computer → conversion line → adapter 1 → adapter 2 → … → adapter N, with A / B lines connected and 24V power supply along the line.

[0033] The bus specification allows for selective connection of 120Ω terminating resistors at both ends and configuration of bias, uses shielded twisted-pair cables, controls the length of trunk and branch lines, and ensures signal integrity.

[0034] When any intermediate station counter is removed, the bus remains connected by the adapter, without affecting the communication and power supply of subsequent nodes.

[0035] In this embodiment, the inflexible wiring of "connecting devices in series and then disconnecting the bus" is avoided, and the addition and deletion of nodes and fault isolation are supported, reducing the risk of failure caused by non-standard wiring.

[0036] Each of the aforementioned transfer devices is connected to one of the aforementioned workstation counters, and each of the aforementioned workstation counters corresponds to a workstation on the production line.

[0037] Each transfer device is connected to a workstation counter, and each counter corresponds one-to-one with a workstation on the production line.

[0038] One-to-one correspondence means that the physical location is bound to the logical workstation; the counter address can be set via buttons / menus without the need for opening the cover, DIP switches, or special tools for the host computer.

[0039] The adapter provides a 24V branch with limited current for the counter, and will not damage the main line in case of short circuit or misconnection; the counter side has polarity protection and surge suppression.

[0040] The panel displays the workstation number corresponding to the address label. When replacing, simply plug and unplug the device and set the address to restore operation.

[0041] In this implementation, address configuration is convenient, node addition and deletion are flexible, and changing a single point does not affect the overall operation.

[0042] The host computer is used to send query commands to the workstation counter via the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

[0043] The host computer sends a query command to the counter via RS485 and the adapter.

[0044] The host computer acts as the sole master station, sequentially polling each address to avoid conflicts caused by multiple devices speaking simultaneously.

[0045] Set response slots and timeouts for each node; if there is no response, retry / mark as offline to ensure link stability and real-time performance.

[0046] The instruction set may include function codes such as data query, parameter issuance, address / time synchronization, alarm confirmation, and IAP upgrade control; it adopts frame header + address + function code + data + CRC check.

[0047] Priority polling can be inserted into the "Call / Alarm Flag" node to maintain orderly polling while ensuring the timeliness of emergency information.

[0048] In this implementation, unified polling and time slot control are used to avoid "polling and active reporting conflicts" and reduce packet loss and bus contention.

[0049] The workstation counter is used to respond to the query command, obtain the corresponding production data, and send the corresponding production data to the host computer through the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

[0050] The workstation counter responds to queries, retrieves and sends the corresponding production data back to the host computer.

[0051] Data sources can include local real-time counts, NG counts, cycle time, process / working hours, fault codes, and equipment status; once a query is found, a packaged response is provided.

[0052] CRC check is performed before response, fixed response delay is debounced, and secure retransmission is supported after host computer timeout; partial power failure or communication jitter does not affect the overall bus.

[0053] Critical data is written to power-loss retained storage (such as EEPROM / FRAM or capacitor-retained RTC fields), which retains the latest production / NG and status even when power is off.

[0054] The bootloader is initiated by IAP commands, and firmware, verification and receipt are received in packets. After the upgrade is completed, the system can be smoothly switched over without unpacking or downtime for long-term maintenance.

[0055] In this implementation, we ensured that the data was not lost and was traceable; and we completed remote firmware maintenance without damaging the on-site wiring.

[0056] In one embodiment, the workstation counter includes at least a microcontroller and buttons, the buttons including a call button, numeric keys, and an confirmation button; each of the adapters is connected to one of the microcontrollers, and the microcontrollers are connected to the buttons; the microcontrollers are used to respond to a user call command and determine whether they have received production data set by the user via the numeric keys; wherein the user call command is issued by the user via the call button; if so, the microcontrollers are used to determine whether they have received a confirmation command issued by the user via the confirmation button; if so, the microcontrollers are used to report the production data to the host computer via the RS485 conversion line and the adapters.

[0057] The workstation counter includes a microcontroller and buttons (call button, numeric keypad, and confirm button); it is connected to RS485 and power supply via an adapter. It defaults to viewing / standby mode, maintaining and displaying local production data buffers.

[0058] First, a call command detection is performed (entering the call state). The microcontroller periodically scans the buttons (including debouncing and minimum trigger interval). When the user presses the call button, the "call flag" is set, the call / edit preparation state is entered, the input timeout timer is started, and the call state is entered with an audio-visual prompt.

[0059] In call mode, the microcontroller determines whether it has received production data input by the user via numeric keys: If received: the input is written to the editing buffer and displayed in real time on the display panel; format and range validation (such as upper limit of digits, upper and lower limits of values) is performed, and clearing / backspace is supported (optional); input timeout is refreshed. If no data is received and the timeout period has expired: the microcontroller automatically exits call mode, clears the call flag, does not report, and returns to standby.

[0060] If valid edit data already exists, the microcontroller determines whether it has received a confirmation command from the user via the confirmation key: If not received and the timeout has not occurred: continue waiting for user input or confirmation. If not received and the timeout has occurred: exit call mode, do not report, and return to standby. If received: proceed to submission verification.

[0061] Perform secondary verification on the production data in the editing buffer (range, format, business rules). If the verification passes, freeze the edited value as "data to be reported"; if necessary, write it to non-volatile storage for power failure protection (optional). Set the "to be reported" flag to prepare for sending the message; provide an audible and visual confirmation of success.

[0062] The system can report production data to the host computer via RS485. The frame structure can be address + function code (call / active reporting) + data area + CRC check.

[0063] To avoid conflicts, the bus occupancy strategy can be a polling system by the host computer. The microcontroller only sets a "call flag" and waits to be polled to its current node before sending back the data to be reported in a query-response mode. Alternatively, the system can reserve a "call reporting time slot," and the microcontroller actively sends data in the allocated time slot, correctly controlling the 485 transmit / receive enable (DE / RE) before and after transmission to avoid concurrency.

[0064] Wait for ACK from the host computer; if timeout or verification failure occurs, retry N times according to the backoff strategy; after N failures, retain the "pending report flag" for subsequent retries.

[0065] Clear the call / pending report flag, record the reporting time and result, end the audio and visual prompt (optional), and return to standby / viewing mode.

[0066] Maintain call status indication (optional intermittent prompt), continue retrying in subsequent polling or the next time slot; display error codes or communication error lights locally if necessary.

[0067] In this embodiment, a three-stage link of "call → input → confirmation" is adopted, with no report sent without confirmation to avoid accidental reporting. Both input and confirmation have timeouts; upon timeout, the system automatically exits without modifying the effective data, improving availability. Key debouncing, minimum re-trigger interval, and input validity verification are implemented; CRC and ACK / retransmission are used for reporting to ensure correct data delivery. Priority polling or reporting time slots are used to avoid RS485 conflicts and packet loss caused by multiple nodes simultaneously reporting. Data to be reported is saved to non-volatile storage, allowing recovery and continuation of reporting after power failure; audio-visual prompts improve visibility and response efficiency. Combining manual confirmation with time-sharing reporting ensures the accuracy of reported data while avoiding RS485 bus conflicts and packet loss; the process is clear, operation is simple, and it adapts to high-interference and fast-paced environments.

[0068] In one embodiment, the workstation counter further includes a buzzer and an alarm light; if a confirmation command is received from the user via the confirmation key, the microcontroller controls the workstation counter to enter an alarm state; within a preset reporting period, the microcontroller controls the buzzer to operate according to a preset beeping mode and controls the alarm light to operate according to a preset alarm mode.

[0069] The workstation counter includes a microcontroller, a buzzer, an alarm light, and an confirmation button; it is connected to RS485 and power supply via an adapter.

[0070] The preset reporting cycle (Trep), buzzer beeping mode (Bpattern), alarm light flashing mode (Lpattern), and retry / mute strategies are configured by the factory or by the host computer.

[0071] The microcontroller completes IO initialization (the buzzer and alarm light are outputs and are off by default), and loads the preset mode and reporting cycle parameters.

[0072] If an incomplete alarm flag (non-volatile memory) is detected from the previous alarm, the alarm status is restored and the reporting cycle begins.

[0073] The microcontroller performs a periodic scan of the buttons (debouncing, minimum trigger interval). Upon receiving a confirmation command from the user via the confirmation button, it determines that this workstation needs to perform a "call / alarm report".

[0074] When entering alarm state, set alarm flag, record trigger timestamp, and write to non-volatile storage if necessary to prevent loss in case of power failure.

[0075] Start the reporting cycle timer Trep and the audible and visual control timer (without blocking communication). Alternatively, a brief indicator light / display can briefly indicate that the system has entered alarm mode.

[0076] During the reporting period, audio and visual output control is available. The buzzer can be driven by a B pattern (e.g., a 200 ms beep / 800 ms silent cycle, or different frequencies / duty cycles depending on the severity), and supports night / silent strategies. The alarm light can be driven by an L pattern (e.g., 1 Hz flashing for normal events, 2 Hz for emergency events, and constant light for communication abnormalities), with the color determined by device configuration or field wiring.

[0077] Rhythm control is achieved through timer interrupts or soft timers, ensuring decoupling from the communication stack and avoiding blocking polling responses.

[0078] When the microcontroller is in alarm mode, it sets a call / alarm reporting flag and completes data reporting through one of two methods. The first is a polling priority strategy: while waiting for the host computer to poll this node first, it sends back alarm / production data in a query-response manner. The second is a time-slot proactive strategy: it proactively sends alarm frames in the agreed reporting time slot, correctly controlling the 485 transmit / receive enable before and after sending to avoid bus conflicts.

[0079] Use CRC checksum and ACK confirmation; if timeout occurs, retry according to the backoff strategy until ACK is received or the maximum number of retries is reached.

[0080] Within Trep, if no ACK is received, the audio and visual prompts will be maintained and a retry will be reported. The noise can be gradually reduced (the beeping duty cycle can be reduced) according to the strategy, but the light prompts will be maintained, taking into account both on-site comfort and visibility.

[0081] If an ACK confirmation is received from the host computer at any time, the process will immediately proceed to the exit convergence step.

[0082] The alarm will stop when one of the following conditions is met: receiving an ACK from the host computer, user local cancellation (cancellation button optional), or the Trep expires (the expiration policy can be configured to continue low-frequency flashing reminders or automatically clear).

[0083] Turn off the buzzer and alarm light (or switch to constant light / low frequency alert, according to the policy), clear the alarm and reporting flags, and record the end time and results to non-volatile storage.

[0084] In this implementation, a confirmation button is used as the trigger threshold to avoid invalid alarms caused by accidental operation. The audible and visual rhythm is driven by a timer, with RS485 polling / reporting taking priority to ensure low packet loss and real-time performance. The reporting period, beep / blink mode, retry, and mute strategies are parameterizable to adapt to different site specifications. Alarm flags and necessary data are stored in non-volatile memory, allowing the alarm to be restored and reporting to continue after a power outage and restart, preventing information loss. The audible and visual linkage provides continuous alerts during the reporting period, facilitating rapid location and response.

[0085] In one embodiment, the workstation counter includes at least a microcontroller and a display board; each of the adapters is connected to one of the microcontrollers, and the microcontrollers are connected to the display board; the microcontrollers are used to acquire actual production data in response to an initialization completion command, and control the display board to display the actual production data.

[0086] Each adapter provides a 24V power supply and RS485 access to the corresponding microcontroller; the microcontroller is directly connected to the display board and is responsible for data acquisition and display control.

[0087] It can be an internal instruction for the microcontroller to complete power-on self-test, parameter loading, and communication ready setting, or it can be an initialization completion frame sent by the host computer; either one of them or both as configured are considered "initialization complete".

[0088] The microcontroller initializes the clock, GPIO, timers, RS485 interface, and memory interface; the display board enters self-test mode (full display on, short display on) and then turns off to avoid flashing invalid data. It reads device address and display brightness parameters, and loads the local configuration.

[0089] Monitor the internal self-test status and (optionally) the host computer handshake frame; before completion, the display board remains blank or displays a placeholder mark to prevent misreading.

[0090] Restore the last saved yield value from non-volatile memory (EEPROM / FRAM); if the verification fails, set it to 0 according to the policy or use the most recent valid backup and record the exception flag.

[0091] Merge any cache increments that may occur after power-on and perform range checks on the results (e.g., 0~99999).

[0092] Write the "actual production data" to the display buffer, start the display scan timer (e.g., ≥200 Hz bit scan), set the brightness level, and ensure there is no flicker or ghosting.

[0093] If the number of digits is insufficient, pad with zeros or spaces on the left as configured; if the number of digits exceeds the range, display the maximum value and flash the indicator.

[0094] When the count changes, only the display buffer is updated. The scan is performed in an interrupt and does not block communication or the count interrupt.

[0095] Even if RS485 is not ready or interrupted, the display continues to show the real-time local output; after communication is restored, it synchronizes with the host computer.

[0096] If the display panel wiring is faulty: display an error code or flashing mode prompt; record the fault status for easy maintenance.

[0097] In case of storage write failure or power failure reset, a version / CRC and dual-zone write strategy is adopted. Upon restart, the latest valid value is selected for recovery to avoid rollback or jump.

[0098] In this embodiment, the effective output is displayed only after "initialization complete" to avoid erroneous display during power-on. Double buffering / atomic read / write and high-frequency scanning ensure stable display without affecting communication. Non-volatile recovery and verification mechanisms prevent power outages from affecting data continuity; even if communication is abnormal, it does not affect on-site readings. One-to-one mapping facilitates location and replacement, and display self-test / error codes assist in rapid troubleshooting.

[0099] In one embodiment, the workstation counter further includes an external interface and a button. The external interface is connected to the corresponding workstation foot switch. The button includes an increment button. The microcontroller is used to determine whether it receives a count increment command sent by the user through the external interface or the increment button. If so, the microcontroller increments the actual production data and saves the incremented actual production data.

[0100] The workstation counter includes a microcontroller, a display board, an external interface (connected to the workstation foot switch), and a panel add button; it obtains power and RS485 access through an adapter.

[0101] The external interface supports dry contact / NPN input, internal pull-up (or pull-down), RC filtering and ESD / surge protection; if necessary, add optocouplers or Schmitt triggers to enhance anti-interference.

[0102] The count increment instruction is defined as a valid press edge event generated by the extension interface or the increment key (after debouncing and thresholding).

[0103] Configure the system GPIO, extend the interface and add key input enable pull-up / pull-down; set the interrupt or timer scan cycle.

[0104] Establish dejitter and minimum interval parameters (e.g., dejitter 10–30 ms, minimum retriggered 120–200 ms). Restore "actual production data" from non-volatile memory; the display panel shows the current production after completing its self-test.

[0105] Periodic scan or edge interrupt sampling extension interface and added key state.

[0106] The two inputs are debouncing and pulse width determination are performed separately (pulse width > threshold is effective) to filter electromagnetic interference spikes.

[0107] Set a minimum re-trigger interval to prevent multiple triggers caused by mechanical jitter / long press.

[0108] If a valid press edge event is generated on any path, it is determined that a "count increment instruction" has been received.

[0109] If two events trigger simultaneously within a very short window (e.g., <50 ms), they are merged into a single event, and only 1 is incremented to avoid double counting.

[0110] The long press strategy is off by default; if you need to press repeatedly, set the initial delay and repeat cycle and parameterize them independently.

[0111] Perform atomic updates in interrupted or critical sections: read → +1 → write back "actual output data" (including range verification and saturation strategies, such as 0~99999).

[0112] Immediately update the display buffer and scan and refresh the display panel in the background to ensure there is no flickering.

[0113] It can also provide audio-visual feedback: a short beep from the buzzer or a flashing green light confirms a valid count.

[0114] RAM is updated in real time, and a "data change flag" is set for synchronization with the host computer.

[0115] Non-volatile data can be configured to use a batching strategy to balance lifespan and security. Data can be persisted after N cumulative occurrences or at T-second intervals, or at shift / process nodes or confirmation key operations; writes include CRC and dual-zone backup. Writing can be incremented by 1 each time, simplifying the logic.

[0116] During the next polling of the host computer, the current "actual production data" will be responded to via RS485; if necessary, a "data change flag" or increment will be attached.

[0117] Upon receiving an ACK, the change flag is cleared; in case of communication failure, retries are performed according to the protocol, without affecting local display and counting.

[0118] If the input is pressed continuously for more than a threshold (e.g., >10 s), it is considered stuck, continuous counting is suppressed and an alarm flag is recorded; counting can only resume after the input is released.

[0119] It can also count and limit high-frequency abnormal triggers, and temporarily increase the threshold when necessary; it records discarded events for maintenance and analysis.

[0120] The watchdog ensures the process is not blocked; upon power-on, it verifies the validity of stored data, and if an error occurs, it rolls back to the most recent valid value.

[0121] In this implementation, a unified debouncing, edge detection, and merging strategy for dual-channel input avoids miscounting / double counting caused by mechanical jitter and concurrency. Atomic addition and display are dual-buffered, ensuring counting does not block communication; RS485 polling synchronization is reliable. Real-time RAM updates, batch persistence, and power-loss protection ensure continuous and traceable production output. Parameters such as debouncing, minimum interval, continuous addition strategy, and data retention threshold are parameterized and can be optimized according to production line cycle time and environment.

[0122] In one embodiment, the workstation counter further includes a button, the button including a view button; when the workstation counter is in view mode, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a view command sent by the user through the view button; if so, the microcontroller is used to obtain the next production data and control the display panel to display the next production data; wherein, the next production data is the production data corresponding to the next view mode.

[0123] The workstation counter includes a microcontroller, a display board, and buttons (including a view button).

[0124] The microcontroller maintains the "view sequence" (e.g., actual output → NG output → target value → achievement rate / difference → alarm threshold → fault code / communication status, etc.) and maintains the current viewing index idx.

[0125] Initialize the key scanning and display panel driver; load the viewing sequence and default display items (such as actual output), and set idx=0.

[0126] After performing a self-test, the display panel enters viewing mode and displays the current value of the default item.

[0127] The periodic scan button refreshes the display periodically (timer scan, does not block communication or counting). It keeps the data item corresponding to the current idx stably displayed on the display panel.

[0128] Debouncing and minimum trigger interval determination are performed on the view key (e.g., debouncing 10–30 ms).

[0129] If a valid "view command" is detected (short press), proceed to step 4; long press (optional) to enable automatic scrolling, scrolling to the next item at fixed intervals.

[0130] Switch to "Next View Mode" and calculate idx = (idx + 1) mod N (return to the first item after reaching the end). Use "the production data corresponding to the next view mode" as the target item.

[0131] The current value of the target item is read from a local data snapshot of the microcontroller; derived items (such as achievement rate) are calculated in real time and range / format checks are performed. Snapshots or double buffering are used to ensure data consistency during the reading process and concurrent count updates.

[0132] New data is written to the display buffer and refreshed by the display timer; formatting is performed according to the configuration (bit limit, zero padding / space leaving, out-of-bounds warning).

[0133] If there is no activity for a set time (e.g., 10–30 seconds) in viewing mode, it will automatically revert to the default item (actual output) for easy inspection. It can be configured to remember the last viewed IDx for continuous viewing upon re-entry.

[0134] If a piece of data is temporarily unavailable (e.g., communication status is not initialized), it will be skipped or displayed as a placeholder / error code. Viewing is a local operation and does not occupy the RS485 bus; communication polling and response have higher priority than the UI and do not interfere with each other.

[0135] In this implementation, various production data can be browsed in a loop with a single click, making the operation simple and consistent. Debouncing and double buffering ensure stable display and consistent data. Rollback and sequence are configurable to adapt to different production lines and management needs.

[0136] In one embodiment, the workstation counter further includes buttons, including numeric keys and an ACK key. After acquiring the actual production data, the microcontroller determines whether it has received a confirmation command sent by the user via the ACK key. If so, the microcontroller controls the workstation counter to enter the setting mode corresponding to the actual production data, and determines whether it has received the current actual production data set by the user via the numeric keys and whether it has received another confirmation command sent by the user via the ACK key. If not, the microcontroller responds to the host computer's data reading command and sends the actual production data to the host computer via the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

[0137] The workstation counter includes a microcontroller, a display board, and buttons (number keys and confirmation key), and is connected to RS485 and power supply via an adapter.

[0138] The microcontroller continuously maintains the "actual output data," which has been restored from non-volatile memory and updated locally in real time after power-on.

[0139] The system completes self-test and communication initialization, and the display panel shows the current actual production data. Key scanning (including debouncing and minimum trigger interval) is then initiated.

[0140] The microcontroller checks if the confirmation key has been effectively triggered. If not, it remains in the view / run state while the host computer reads the response. If yes, it enters the "Actual Production Data" setting mode.

[0141] Load the current actual output into the editing buffer and display it on the display panel (without overwriting the effective value). You can be prompted to enter the settings (sound / light optional) and start the settings timeout timer.

[0142] Check if the "current actual production data" set by the numeric keypad has been received. If not, continue waiting until the timeout period. If the timeout period occurs, exit the setting mode, return to the viewing mode, and the effective value remains unchanged. If yes, write the input to the editing buffer and display it in real time; perform bit limit and range validation (e.g., 0~99999), support clear / backspace (optional), and refresh the timeout timer.

[0143] Check if a confirmation command has been received again. If not, continue waiting for numeric input or confirmation (subject to timeout). Do not submit without confirmation. If yes, perform submission validation and save.

[0144] After the secondary verification passes, the edit buffer is atomically overwritten with the effective "actual yield data," updating the display. The new value is written to non-volatile storage (with verification / dual-zone backup), and the "data change flag" is set for synchronization in the next round of polling by the host computer. Once the audible / visual feedback indicates successful submission, the system exits setup mode and returns to viewing mode.

[0145] If the settings are not entered or not submitted, the host computer reads the response. Responding to the host computer's data read command, the system returns the current "effective" actual production data (address / function code / data / CRC) via RS485.

[0146] If the settings are in an uncommitted state, only the effective values ​​(excluding those under editing) will be returned to ensure host data consistency. Communication uses timeout / retry and CRC checks to ensure reliable responses.

[0147] In this embodiment, a complete process of "confirm entry → numeric input → confirm submission again" is required; without a second confirmation, the changes will not take effect. An editing buffer is used, and submissions are atomic updates; communication and the UI are decoupled, and the setup process does not block RS485 polling. Submissions are persistent, ensuring data is not lost even when power is off; after power-on recovery, the data remains consistent with the display / host computer.

[0148] In one embodiment, the workstation counter includes at least a microcontroller and buttons, the buttons including numeric keys and an ACK key; each adapter is connected to one of the microcontrollers, and the microcontroller is connected to the buttons; when the workstation counter is in viewing mode, the microcontroller is used to determine whether a confirmation command sent by the user via the ACK key has been received; if so, the microcontroller is used to control the workstation counter to enter the setting mode corresponding to the current viewing mode, and determine whether the current production data set by the user via the numeric keys has been received; wherein, the current production data is the production data corresponding to the current viewing mode; if so, the microcontroller is used to determine whether a confirmation command sent by the user via the ACK key has been received again; if so, the microcontroller is used to save the current production data.

[0149] Each adapter provides RS485 access and power to the microcontroller of the corresponding workstation counter, with a one-to-one mapping for easy installation and maintenance. The microcontroller is connected to the buttons (including numeric keys and confirmation keys) and is responsible for button scanning, state machine, and data storage and retrieval.

[0150] The workstation counter is in viewing mode by default, which displays various production data in a loop (such as actual output, NG, target value, alarm threshold, etc.).

[0151] The workstation counter includes a microcontroller, a display board, and buttons (number keys and confirmation key); it is connected to RS485 and power supply via an adapter.

[0152] The microcontroller maintains the "actual output data" and restores it from non-volatile memory upon power-up.

[0153] After completing self-test, address / communication initialization, and loading actual production data into RAM and display buffer, the system enters viewing mode.

[0154] The microcontroller periodically scans the buttons (debouncing, minimum trigger interval). It checks if an acknowledgment button command has been received. If not, it maintains the viewing mode; when the host computer sends a data read command, it returns the current "actual production data" via RS485 according to the protocol frame (address / function code / data / CRC), and ensures reliable response according to the timeout / retry strategy.

[0155] If so, it enters the "Actual Production Data" settings mode, loads the current actual production into the editing buffer and displays it, and provides a prompt to enter the settings (audio / visual options available). It starts a settings timeout timer (automatically exits without data modification if no operation is performed).

[0156] Determine if numeric keypad input has been received. If not, wait until timeout; if timeout occurs, exit settings mode and revert to viewing mode, with the effective value remaining unchanged. If yes, update the editing buffer (bit limit and range validation, such as 0~99999) and display the edited value in real time.

[0157] Check if a confirmation key has been received again. If not, continue waiting (subject to timeout constraints). If yes, perform a second verification (range / business rules), atomically submit the edited value as the new "actual production data," refresh the display, write the new value to non-volatile storage (with verification), and set the "data change flag" (to facilitate synchronization in the next round of queries by the host computer); prompt success and exit the settings mode to return to view.

[0158] Key debouncing / minimum interval, edit buffer + atomic commit, non-volatile saving to prevent data loss due to power failure, read command response including CRC and retry.

[0159] The microcontroller performs debouncing and minimum trigger interval checks on the confirmation button. After detecting a valid "confirmation command", it assumes that the user wants to modify the data item currently being viewed.

[0160] Based on the currently viewed item, enter the corresponding settings interface and load the current value of the item into the "edit buffer" (without changing the effective value). The display panel shows the value to be edited and can provide audio and visual prompts.

[0161] If the current output is the actual output, proceed to "Actual Output Settings"; if the current output is NG, proceed to "NG Settings"; if the current output is the target / threshold, proceed to the corresponding settings.

[0162] The microcontroller receives numeric keypad input and writes it to the editing buffer; it supports clear / backspace, bit limit (e.g., up to 5 bits), and range check (e.g., 0~99999).

[0163] Different business rules (such as whether rollback is allowed, upper and lower limits, and step size) can be applied to different data items. Illegal input will be rejected and a prompt will be displayed.

[0164] After a second confirmation is detected, a secondary verification is performed; if successful, the edit buffer atom is submitted as the new effective value for the data item, and the display is updated.

[0165] When submitting, write to non-volatile memory (EEPROM / FRAM, with CRC / version) to prevent power failure from affecting it; at the same time, set the "data change flag" to synchronize during the next polling by the host computer to ensure consistency between the two ends.

[0166] Successful submission will be indicated by a short beep from the buzzer or a flashing indicator light.

[0167] If no valid numeric input is received or no secondary confirmation is made after entering the settings, the system will automatically exit the settings mode upon timeout without rewriting the effective value; the display will then revert to the viewing mode.

[0168] During the setup process, RS485 communication is not blocked; the host computer still returns the last effective value when reading.

[0169] Use an edit buffer to avoid contaminating the host computer data in a "semi-edit state"; use atomic updates for submissions to prevent jumps caused by concurrent reads and writes.

[0170] The counting logic is decoupled from the UI / communication: counting can continue, and the display and reporting use snapshots / double buffering to ensure consistency.

[0171] In this embodiment, even in setting mode, the host computer's read command is prioritized, but the returned value is the last "effective" actual output value (unsubmitted edit values ​​are not sent out), ensuring data consistency on the host computer. The three-stage process of "confirm entry → numeric input → confirm submission again" is used for setting any "currently viewed item," unifying interaction and reducing errors. Data traceability and uninterrupted data loss are guaranteed, and the host computer and field displays remain consistent; maintenance is simple and implementation costs are low.

[0172] In one implementation, if no confirmation command is received from the user via the confirmation key, the microcontroller controls the workstation counter to return to the viewing mode.

[0173] The workstation counter has switched from viewing mode to setting mode (for the data of the currently viewed item). The microcontroller establishes an "edit buffer," and the display shows the value to be edited. The timeout timer T_set is started, and debouncing and minimum trigger interval are enabled for button scanning.

[0174] The microcontroller continuously monitors numeric key presses and confirmation key events: if a valid numeric key press is detected, the edit buffer is updated and T_set is reset (while continuously waiting for user submission). If no confirmation key is detected, the process continues to wait (constrained by T_set).

[0175] If no confirmation key is received within T_set, a timeout rollback process is triggered.

[0176] Discard uncommitted data in the edit buffer, do not overwrite already effective data, and do not perform any non-volatile storage writes.

[0177] In this embodiment, the effective value is not rewritten or persisted without receiving confirmation, ensuring data security and traceability. Automatic rollback ensures the interface promptly returns to a readable viewing state without affecting the host computer's polling and the production line's real-time performance.

[0178] In this embodiment, the workstation management system based on RS485 communication includes: a host computer, an RS485 conversion cable, several adapters, and several workstation counters. The host computer is connected in series with several adapters via the RS485 conversion cable. Each adapter is connected to one workstation counter, and each workstation counter corresponds to a workstation on the production line. The host computer sends query commands to the workstation counters via the RS485 conversion cable and adapters. The workstation counters respond to the query commands, obtain the corresponding production data, and send the corresponding production data back to the host computer via the RS485 conversion cable and adapters. The bus-serial architecture simplifies field wiring. The daisy-chain connection of the host computer—RS485 conversion cable—adapter makes the communication path clear and the wiring standardized, reducing the risk of incorrect connections and rework. Each adapter connects to a single workstation counter, forming a clear mapping of "one adapter corresponding to one workstation," making installation, identification, and maintenance intuitive and facilitating faster fault location. Each workstation counter is connected to the bus via its own adapter. Adding, deleting, or replacing a single counter does not interrupt the bus's continuity, allowing for flexible node expansion and maintenance and reducing downtime. A unified communication mechanism using a host computer (master station polling) and counter responses avoids bus conflicts caused by multiple simultaneous communication points, significantly reducing packet loss and improving real-time and deterministic communication. Based on RS485 differential communication, it offers advantages such as long-distance operation, anti-interference capabilities, and multi-point access. Compared to PLCs or wireless networking, it has lower hardware and implementation costs, resulting in a higher overall cost-performance ratio. The query-response data acquisition method facilitates unified timing management. The host computer can perform time-division multiplexing by address and frequency, ensuring data consistency and facilitating statistical analysis and quality traceability. The system is highly scalable; expansion can be achieved by adding adapters and workstation counters as needed, without requiring significant modifications to existing production lines. The host computer can quickly identify offline nodes through polling timeouts and address recognition, enabling rapid replacement based on a one-to-one correspondence, shortening maintenance cycles.

[0179] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a workstation management method based on RS485 communication according to the second embodiment of this application. In this embodiment, the executing entity of the workstation management method based on RS485 communication can be understood as a workstation management system based on RS485 communication. Figure 2As shown, the workstation management method based on RS485 communication is as follows: The host computer is connected in series with several adapters via RS485 conversion cables. Each adapter is connected to a workstation counter, and each workstation counter corresponds to a workstation on the production line.

[0180] S201: The host computer sends a query command to the workstation counter through the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

[0181] S202: The workstation counter responds to the query command, obtains the corresponding workstation production data, and sends the corresponding workstation production data to the host computer through the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

[0182] In this embodiment, the host computer is connected in series with several adapter devices via an RS485 conversion cable. The connection configuration can be: host computer → USB to RS485 → adapter device 1 → adapter device 2 → ... → adapter device N, forming an RS485 daisy-chain bus (differential A / B lines). Termination resistors and biasing are configured at both ends of the trunk line, using shielded twisted-pair cable. The adapter devices provide power and signal distribution, with one input and one output throughout. Unified power supply and communication cabling ensures a clear path, facilitates expansion and maintenance, and reduces misconnections and interference.

[0183] Each adapter is connected to a workstation counter, corresponding one-to-one with a workstation on the production line. Each adapter branch connects to a single workstation counter, corresponding to one workstation on-site, with clear labeling. Removing or replacing a counter does not affect bus connectivity or communication / power supply to subsequent nodes. The workstation counter address is set and stored via panel buttons, facilitating rapid deployment and replacement.

[0184] The host computer sends query commands to the workstation counters via RS485 (master station polling). The host computer sends query frames periodically according to address order or strategy (such as prioritizing nodes with call / alarm flags). The frame structure of the query frame can include frame header / address / function code / parameter / CRC; a response time slot and timeout To are set; if there is no response, it retryes N times and records the offline status. When performing timing control, the master station initiates all responses to avoid conflicts caused by multiple slaves speaking simultaneously; the polling period Tp is configurable to balance real-time performance and bus load.

[0185] The workstation counter responds, acquires and transmits the corresponding workstation's production data, and quickly snapshots (atomic reads) the local data after receiving a query. Typical data includes actual output, NG quantity, fault / alarm codes, and equipment status bits. A response frame (address / function code / data / CRC) is constructed according to the protocol and sent within the specified time slot. Before and after transmission, the 485 transmit / receive enable is correctly controlled to ensure no half-duplex conflict. The response includes CRC verification; if the host computer does not acknowledge or times out, the slave device can resend according to the strategy or wait for the next polling; key counter values ​​are retained even after power failure to ensure continuity. After successful verification, the data is entered into the database / displayed, and the node's online and health status is updated; if an alarm / call flag is detected, the priority of the next round of polling is dynamically adjusted.

[0186] In this embodiment, a "master station polling + standardized access" approach ensures conflict-free and low packet loss on the bus; one-to-one adapters enable flexible addition, deletion, and rapid maintenance; and counter-side snapshot reading and non-volatile data storage ensure real-time and traceable data. The bus serial architecture simplifies field wiring. A daisy-chain connection between the host computer, RS485 converter, and adapter ensures a clear communication path and standardized wiring, reducing the risk of incorrect connections and rework. Each adapter connects to a single workstation counter, forming a clear mapping of "one adapter corresponding to one workstation," making installation, labeling, and maintenance intuitive and facilitating faster fault location. Workstation counters are connected to the bus via their respective adapters; adding, deleting, or replacing a single counter does not interrupt bus connectivity, allowing for flexible node expansion and maintenance and reducing downtime. The communication mechanism of unified host computer polling (master station polling) and counter response avoids bus conflicts caused by multiple simultaneous communication points, significantly reducing packet loss and improving communication real-time performance and determinism. Based on RS485 differential communication, it boasts advantages such as long-distance operation, anti-interference capabilities, and multi-point access. Compared to PLCs or wireless networking, it offers lower hardware and implementation costs, resulting in a high overall cost-performance ratio. The query-response data acquisition method facilitates unified time-series management. The host computer can perform time-division multiplexing by address and frequency, ensuring data consistency and facilitating statistical analysis and quality traceability. The system is highly scalable; expansion can be achieved by adding adapters and workstation counters as needed, without requiring significant modifications to existing production lines. The host computer can quickly identify offline nodes through polling timeouts and address recognition, enabling rapid replacement based on a one-to-one correspondence, thus shortening maintenance cycles.

[0187] It should be understood that the sequence number of each step in the above embodiments does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0188] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts that are not described in detail or recorded in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions of other embodiments.

[0189] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0190] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and should all be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A workstation management system based on RS485 communication, characterized in that, include: The host computer, RS485 conversion cable, several adapters and several station counters; The host computer is connected in series with several of the adapters via the RS485 conversion cable; Each of the aforementioned transfer devices is connected to one of the aforementioned workstation counters, and each of the aforementioned workstation counters corresponds to a workstation on the production line; The host computer is used to send query commands to the workstation counter via the RS485 conversion line and the adapter; The workstation counter is used to respond to the query command, obtain the corresponding production data, and send the corresponding production data to the host computer through the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

2. The workstation management system with RS485 communication as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The workstation counter includes at least a microcontroller and buttons, and the buttons include a call button, number keys, and an confirmation button. Each of the adapters is connected to one of the microcontrollers, and the microcontrollers are connected to the buttons. The microcontroller is used to respond to a user call command and determine whether it has received the production data set by the user via the numeric keypad; wherein, the user call command is issued by the user via the call key; If so, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a confirmation command from the user via the confirmation key; If so, the microcontroller is used to report the production data to the host computer via the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

3. The workstation management system with RS485 communication as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The workstation counter also includes a buzzer and an alarm light; If the microcontroller receives the confirmation command issued by the user via the confirmation key, it controls the workstation counter to enter the alarm state. Within a preset reporting period, the microcontroller controls the buzzer to operate according to a preset beeping mode and controls the alarm light to operate according to a preset alarm mode.

4. The workstation management system with RS485 communication as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The workstation counter includes at least a microcontroller and a display board; Each of the aforementioned adapters is connected to one of the aforementioned microcontrollers, and the microcontrollers are connected to the display panel; The microcontroller is used to respond to the initialization completion command, acquire the actual production data, and control the display panel to display the actual production data.

5. The workstation management system with RS485 communication as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The workstation counter also includes an external interface and buttons; the external interface is connected to the corresponding workstation foot switch; the buttons include an increment button. The microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a count increment command sent by the user through the external interface or the increment key; If so, the microcontroller is used to add the actual production data and save the added actual production data.

6. The workstation management system with RS485 communication as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The workstation counter also includes buttons, including a view button; When the workstation counter is in viewing mode, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a viewing command sent by the user through the viewing key; If so, the microcontroller is used to acquire the next production data and control the display panel to display the next production data; wherein, the next production data is the production data corresponding to the next viewing mode.

7. The workstation management system with RS485 communication as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The workstation counter also includes buttons, which include numeric keys and an confirmation key; After acquiring the actual production data, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a confirmation command sent by the user through the confirmation key; If so, the microcontroller is used to control the workstation counter to enter the setting mode corresponding to the actual output data, and to determine whether the current actual output data set by the user through the numeric key is received and whether the confirmation command issued by the user through the confirmation key is received again. If not, the microcontroller is used to respond to the host computer's data read command and send the actual production data to the host computer through the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

8. The workstation management system with RS485 communication as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The workstation counter includes at least a microcontroller and buttons, and the buttons include numeric keys and an confirmation key. Each of the adapters is connected to one of the microcontrollers, and the microcontrollers are connected to the buttons. When the workstation counter is in viewing mode, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received a confirmation command sent by the user through the confirmation key; If so, the microcontroller is used to control the workstation counter to enter the setting mode corresponding to the current viewing mode, and to determine whether the current production data set by the user through the numeric keypad has been received; wherein, the current production data is the production data corresponding to the current viewing mode; If so, the microcontroller is used to determine whether it has received another confirmation command from the user via the confirmation key; If so, the microcontroller is used to store the current production data.

9. The workstation management system with RS485 communication as described in claim 8, characterized in that, If no confirmation command is received from the user via the confirmation key, the microcontroller controls the workstation counter to return to the viewing mode.

10. A workstation management method based on RS485 communication, characterized in that, include: The host computer is connected in series with several adapters via an RS485 conversion cable; Each of the aforementioned transfer devices is connected to a workstation counter, and each of the aforementioned workstation counters corresponds to a workstation on the production line; The host computer sends a query command to the workstation counter via the RS485 conversion line and the adapter; The workstation counter responds to the query command, obtains the corresponding workstation production data, and sends the corresponding workstation production data to the host computer through the RS485 conversion line and the adapter.

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