Method for computer-aided installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of industrial systems

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (100) for computer-aided installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance of an industrial system (1).

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a method for computer-aided installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of industrial systems. Background Technology

[0002] It is known that the components of an industrial system can be connected in a centralized topology, in which a central control cabinet is directly connected to devices such as sensors and actuators. Alternatively, the system can be planned in a distributed topology. This means that distributed connecting elements are provided, each connected to one or more devices for providing automation functions. The advantages of a distributed topology are that the system has a more flexible structure, is easier to install, and can achieve higher efficiency and economy.

[0003] However, in some cases, the installation of the system can still be time-consuming, especially when using multiple different devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The subject matter of this invention is the method having the features of claim 1, the computer program having the features of claim 14, and the apparatus having the features of claim 15. Other features and details of the invention are derived from the corresponding dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Herein, the features and details described in connection with the method of the invention naturally also apply to the computer program and the apparatus of the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosure of the invention can always be mutually referenced.

[0005] The subject of this invention is, in particular, a method for computer-aided installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of industrial systems, preferably a computer-implemented method.

[0006] The method of the present invention may optionally include providing installation specifications, particularly providing installation specifications with digital circuit diagrams and / or mechanical drawings and / or other installation information (especially installation documentation). The provided and / or supplied installation specifications may be used to predefine and / or specify at least a partial structure of at least a portion of the system. The at least partial structure may include mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or fluid and / or pneumatic and / or electrical structures. This specifically means that the structure of the system is predefined through different representations, such as mechanical (MCAD) or electrical (ECAD) representations.

[0007] The installation specification can optionally be provided by reading and / or processing digital information via at least one computer program. According to a further development, the processing may also include generating the installation specification. To achieve this provision, user input and / or data transmission for the digital information may also be further configured.

[0008] The installation specifications can also be provided optionally by automatically determining the state and / or topology and / or wiring and / or connection configuration of at least a portion of the system structure, preferably through at least partial electronic readout and / or detection. For this purpose, for example, which devices and / or connecting elements are interconnected can be determined electronically at the interface level (particularly the E / A level). Alternatively, the installation specifications can be provided without requiring determination at the interface level, as this is technically impossible, for example, before or at the time of installation, due to the lack of electronic commissioning and / or power supply.

[0009] Alternatively, the installation specifications (e.g., in the form of a circuit diagram) may not need to be given in advance, but rather provided by automatically and dynamically determining them at the system (at least partially installed) (i.e., even without a pre-defined circuit diagram). The determined installation specifications can then be stored for subsequent use in computer-aided installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of the system.

[0010] In this at least partial structure (of at least a portion of the system), devices and connecting elements (the latter, in particular, in the form of modules) for providing automation functions may be electrically and / or interconnected for signal and / or data exchange, particularly distributed and / or in the field. Such connections may be made, for example, via cables and / or radio. Here, the installation specification may optionally specifically specify the connections between the devices and connecting elements. Therefore, the installation specification can also be understood as a digital circuit diagram or a sort-plan.

[0011] The method of the present invention may optionally include providing assembly and / or connection documentation. In the assembly and / or connection documentation, at least partial structures (preferably including mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or fluid and / or pneumatic and / or electrical structures) and / or connections between the device and connecting elements may be recorded (preferably based on provided installation specifications). For this purpose, the assembly and / or connection documentation may be derived, for example, from a computer-guided installation and / or recording process in which the user, for example, confirms multiple installation steps. This may, for example, be confirmation that a device has been connected to an interface of a connecting element. This confirmation may also include a precise indication of the interface, since the connecting element may have multiple interfaces for connecting to the device.

[0012] In the method of the present invention, in addition to providing installation specifications, it may optionally, alternatively or additionally, provide assembly and / or connection documentation.

[0013] Providing assembly and / or connection documentation can optionally be accomplished by reading and / or processing digital information via at least one computer program. According to a further development, the processing may also include generating the assembly and / or connection documentation. To achieve this provision, user input and / or data transmission for the digital information may also be further configured.

[0014] Providing assembly and / or connection documentation may also optionally be done by automatically determining the state and / or topology and / or wiring and / or connection configuration of at least a portion of the system's structure, and preferably by at least partially electronic readout and / or detection. For this purpose, for example, which devices and / or connecting elements are interconnected can be determined electronically at the interface level (particularly the E / A level) of the devices and / or connecting elements. Alternatively, it can be configured that providing assembly and / or connection documentation must be done without the determination of the interface level, because, for example, at the point of installation, this is technically not possible due to the lack of electronic commissioning and / or power supply.

[0015] Alternatively, it may be possible that assembly and / or connection documentation is not provided in advance, but rather determined automatically and dynamically (preferably during installation) on the system (which is at least partially installed). This determined assembly and / or connection documentation can then be stored for later use in computer-aided installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of the system.

[0016] The method of the present invention may further optionally include providing an actual specification (Ist-Spezifikation) that specifically designates the actual, at least partial, structure and / or the actual connection of the device to the connecting elements of at least a portion of the system. In other words, the actual structure refers to the real structure as it actually exists on the machine. This actual structure can be determined, for example, by manual and / or automatic detection at the system. Here, the actual specification may also be determined within the framework of a computer-guided installation and / or recording process, for example by detecting at least one user input and / or correction regarding the actual execution of the installation steps. Furthermore, electrical and / or digital evaluations of the connecting elements may be set up, if necessary, to check the actual connection to the device.

[0017] In the method of the present invention, in addition to providing installation specifications and / or assembly and / or connection documentation, actual specifications may optionally be provided alternatively or additionally.

[0018] Providing the actual specifications can optionally be done by reading and / or processing digital information via at least one computer program. According to a further development, the processing may also include generating the actual specifications. To achieve this provision, user input and / or data transmission for the digital information may also be further configured.

[0019] Providing actual specifications can also optionally be done by automatically determining the state and / or topology and / or wiring and / or connection configuration of at least a portion of the system's structure, and preferably by performing at least partial electronic readout and / or inspection. For this purpose, for example, which devices and / or connecting elements are interconnected can be determined electronically at the interface level (particularly the E / A level) of the devices and / or connecting elements. Therefore, providing actual specifications constitutes an important supplement to the aforementioned alternatives, in which providing installation specifications or assembly and / or connection documentation must be done without interface level determination, as this is technically not possible, for example, at the point of installation due to the lack of electronic commissioning and / or power supply. Even if this were possible previously, providing actual specifications can still be significant because it allows for inspection at a later or even final point of installation. Furthermore, it is possible that providing actual specifications allows for a more accurate determination of the system's topology and / or actual device connections compared to providing installation specifications or assembly and / or connection documentation, because more comprehensive electronic commissioning can be performed at the system level. Furthermore, providing installation specifications may be less reliable than actual specifications when indicating at least a partial structure of the system, as deviations from the specifications may occur during installation. Moreover, providing assembly and / or connection documentation may also be unreliable when indicating at least a partial structure of the system, as it relies on accurate and error-free user input.

[0020] Alternatively, it may be possible to provide the actual specifications by automatically and dynamically (preferably during and / or after installation) determining them at the system (at least partially installed). These determined specifications can then be stored for subsequent use in computer-aided installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of the system.

[0021] Optionally, the actual specifications may include the actual topology of the system or at least a partial structure of the system. Once the actual specifications are provided and preferably determined, they may be stored digitally for future use.

[0022] The method of the present invention may optionally include determining a comparison result based on an automated evaluation of the provided assembly and / or connection documentation (and / or installation specifications) and the actual specifications. Here, differences between the actual specifications and the assembly and / or connection documentation (and / or installation specifications) can be determined, preferably as differences between the actual at least partial structure and the recorded at least partial structure (each at least with respect to a part of the system), and / or as differences between the actual connection and the recorded connection. Based on this, the determined differences can be provided in the comparison result. In other words, by determining this comparison result, a target / actual comparison can be performed, preferably down to the E / A level of the connecting element and / or down to the device level of the connecting element (particularly the sensor-actuator level). The E / A level is specifically understood as: the specific interface (particularly ports) known at the connecting element where the device is connected. This can be achieved by specifying E / A addresses, wherein, for this purpose, an E / A address range can be set within the framework of system parameterization.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally, the method of the present invention may optionally include determining the comparison result based on an automated evaluation of the provided installation specifications and the actual specifications. Here, the differences between the actual specifications and the installation specifications can be determined, preferably as the differences between the actual at least partial structure and the at least partial structure preset / recorded in the installation specifications (each at least for a portion of the system), and / or as the differences between the actual connections and the connections preset / recorded in the installation specifications. Based on this, the determined differences can be provided in the comparison result. In other words, by determining the comparison result, a target / actual comparison can be performed, preferably down to the E / A level of the connecting element and / or down to the device level of the connecting element (particularly the sensor-actuator level). The E / A level is specifically understood as: a known specific interface (particularly a port) at which the device is connected to the connecting element. This can be achieved by specifying E / A addresses, wherein, for this purpose, an E / A address range can be set within the framework of system parameterization.

[0024] Furthermore, the determination of the comparison results can optionally be designed as an automated check, in which the device is checked to ensure that it is indeed connected according to the recorded structure or recorded connection (i.e., connected at the recording interface of the connecting element). This check may accordingly include an electrical target / actual comparison, wherein the device is electrically checked at which interfaces of the connecting element it is connected to, and / or which device is connected. Here, if necessary, the electrical characteristics of the connected device can also be compared with the expected characteristics. The comparison results (especially the target / actual comparison) can then be used to determine whether the device is correctly connected and whether it is functioning properly.

[0025] The method of the present invention may further optionally include: providing the comparison results for the system and / or for another system, particularly for the installation and / or commissioning and / or operation and / or maintenance and / or modernization of the respective systems. To this end, the comparison results can be used, for example, to provide new installation specifications, and / or automated and / or computer-aided guidance for installation and / or commissioning and / or operation and / or maintenance and / or modernization. Here, the guidance may preferably include visual output, preferably via augmented reality. This can have the advantage of taking into account changes and improvements in the installation and / or commissioning and / or operation and / or maintenance and / or modernization of the respective systems. Here, the new installation specifications and / or guidance may contain a detailed description of the structure and / or installation steps of the respective system, preferably including the system's dimensions and / or materials and / or components and their functional principles. The new installation specifications and / or guidance may also, if necessary, include instructions for system operation and maintenance, including required maintenance work, recommended maintenance intervals, and required spare parts. Finally, the guidance may also include information on system modernization, including recommended modifications and / or improvements and the steps required to implement such modifications and / or improvements. By providing detailed information and instructions, new installation specifications or guidelines can help improve system efficiency and reliability and reduce operating costs.

[0026] As a further possibility for providing this comparison result, it is possible to output the inspection results and / or warnings to the user. Alternatively or additionally, the comparison result can be used to evaluate at least a portion (particularly multiple installation steps) of the installation and / or maintenance. For example, this evaluation can be performed during or after computer-booted installation and / or recording to determine the degree of faithfulness of the installation / maintenance to the specifications. This evaluation can then, for example, be assigned to the user who performed the installation / maintenance. For this purpose, user identification may be detected during computer-booted installation and / or recording.

[0027] When necessary, one application of the comparison results can be to enable target / actual comparisons down to the interface level and / or E / A level of the connecting elements. For this purpose, sensor devices can be installed in the system to accurately detect electrical signals and / or data and / or current at the interface of the connecting elements. By using digital control elements, it is further possible to manipulate the E / A level to compare target values ​​with actual values. The system can also be equipped with at least one monitoring camera capable of visually inspecting the connecting elements and / or devices (especially at the E / A level), thereby facilitating target / actual comparisons.

[0028] The system (particularly an industrial system) may include electric motors and / or industrial automation systems. Furthermore, the system (particularly an industrial system) may be at least partially configured as a mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or fluid and / or pneumatic and / or electrical system.

[0029] The method of the present invention can, where necessary, at least partially provide computer-aided installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization and / or inspection and / or operation of a system or another system. For this purpose, the method can be performed at least partially or completely by a device for data processing (particularly a device comprising one or more computers). Computer-aided is specifically understood to mean providing automated functions through this device. This can be used to provide support while a user (e.g., an installer) is working on the system. Here, installation may, for example, involve the initial installation or reinstallation of the system or another system, wherein the system is constructed according to its preset topology. This construction may specifically include the installation and connection of multiple components of the system. This is preferably performed according to preset installation specifications. Furthermore, commissioning may include system setup and / or inspection, while maintenance may involve the inspection and / or repair and / or replacement of one or more individual components of the system. System modernization may also involve replacing components to expand the system with new / adapted or improved functionality, and / or improve the system's efficiency and performance.

[0030] It is possible that the method of the present invention includes providing installation specifications, particularly providing installation specifications having digital circuit diagrams and / or mechanical diagrams. For this purpose, the installation specifications may be retrieved, for example, in the form of digital data (e.g., from a data storage device or database), and / or stored non-volatilely in a device for data processing. The installation specifications may include a target planning diagram that at least partially specifies the desired structure of the system.

[0031] The provided installation specifications can be used, where necessary, for at least a portion of the pre-designed system's at least partial structure (particularly mechanical and / or fluid and / or pneumatic and / or hydraulic and / or electrical structures). Within this pre-designed at least partial structure, to provide automation functions, devices (particularly sensors and / or actuators) and at least one or more connecting elements (particularly one or more modules) can be connected. These connections can be made electrically, and / or for signal and / or data exchange, and / or wired, and / or wirelessly. Furthermore, the connections can be field-mounted and / or distributed. To make these connections, for example, one or more devices can be connected to the interfaces of individual connecting elements.

[0032] The connection of the system's equipment and connecting elements can preferably be performed in the field. In this context, "in the field" specifically means that the equipment and / or connecting elements are not centrally connected in a control cabinet, but are distributed in different locations within the system and can be interconnected there. This enables flexible and space-saving installation of the system and also simplifies on-site maintenance and repair.

[0033] The one or more connecting elements may be configured to include at least one of the following and / or include at least one of the following: - Module, - Fieldbus module, - Main components, preferably IO-Link master and / or fieldbus master, - Distributor, - Junction box, - Power supply unit, - Fuse, - Connector card, - Signal converter - Control unit, preferably a motor control unit. - Part of the control device.

[0034] The connection between components (i.e., at least one connecting element and device) can be configured such that each connecting element is used to connect to one or more devices. For this purpose, each connecting element can have multiple interfaces for the devices. Specifically, each connecting element can be configured to have at least two, four, or six interfaces for connecting at least one of the devices to each interface. The connection can include electrical connections and / or data and / or signal connections. Here, electrical connections can also be understood as connections to a power supply. Signal exchange can also include analog signal exchange, and data exchange preferably includes digital signal exchange. Furthermore, the connection can be located in the field and / or in a distributed manner. In the distributed case, the connection occurs particularly outside the central control unit and / or control cabinet, directly in the field. Furthermore, the connection can be wired and / or wireless, meaning that the connecting element and / or device can have at least partially cable interfaces and / or radio interfaces. The interfaces can further be configured for connection to plug connectors. Additionally, the interfaces of each connecting element can also be located on the housing of the connecting element and are preferably electrically connected to printed circuit boards and / or electronic devices inside the housing. The housing may have seals and / or at least partially surround the potting compound for the electronic device, so that the connecting elements have a dustproof, waterproof and / or moisture-proof construction (that is, in particular, IP67 capability).

[0035] The connection of one or more devices to the connecting element or one of the connecting elements can preferably be achieved by connecting the one or more devices to one or more interfaces of the connecting element. For this purpose, the respective interfaces can be configured, for example, as ports or terminals. Here, the connection is not necessarily only between two components. For example, a T-connector may connect not only one but two devices to one interface, or it may connect one device to two interfaces.

[0036] In the method of the present invention, an assembly and / or connection document may also be provided, wherein the at least partial structure is recorded based on the provided installation specifications. This at least partial structure may include mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or fluid and / or pneumatic and / or electrical structures. It is also conceivable that the assembly and / or connection document records the connections between the device and the connecting elements or individual connecting elements based on the provided installation specifications. The assembly and / or connection document can therefore be used to record the assembly and connections performed by the user based on the installation specifications. For this purpose, for example, it may be possible to set up user verification of individual installation actions (particularly installation steps). It is also possible to make the verification of these installation actions at least partially automatic.

[0037] It is possible, in the method of the present invention, particularly in assembly and / or connection documentation, to determine and / or identify deviations between at least a recorded partial structure (particularly a recorded connection, i.e., the document record) and a preset partial structure or preset connection according to installation specifications. This deviation can be output to the user, and / or the user can correct and / or confirm the deviation.

[0038] It is further conceivable that the document may not conform to the actual (i.e., real) at least local structure of at least a portion of the system, particularly the actual connections at the system location. This could be due to, for example, incorrect confirmation. Therefore, it is possible to provide actual specifications that specifically define the actual at least local structure of at least a portion of the system at the system location and / or the actual connections of devices and connecting elements. These actual specifications can be determined, for example, by electronically evaluating one or more connecting elements (e.g., by communicating with the respective connecting elements). For this purpose, for example, each connecting element can provide feedback on which devices are connected there and / or which interfaces are occupied. Similarly, for example, the actual specifications can also be determined by evaluating device outputs and / or user inputs.

[0039] Furthermore, it is possible to determine the comparison result based on an automated evaluation of the provided assembly and / or connection documentation and on the actual specifications. This can be, for example, determining the differences between the actual specifications and the assembly and / or connection documentation. These differences are preferably differences between the actual at least partial structure and the recorded at least partial structure (each at least with respect to a part of the system), and / or differences between the actual connection and the recorded connection. The determined differences can then be provided (preferably output) in the comparison result. This achieves the advantage of being able to identify deviations between the documentation and the actual state of the system (i.e., the actual at least partial structure or actual connection) and output them to the user if necessary. This allows for a simpler and more reliable execution of work at the system level.

[0040] Each connecting element can be configured as a module and / or a main element, preferably for the distribution of electrical power and / or data flow. As a main element, the connecting element can further be designed for data communication with secondary devices. Preferably, at least a portion of the connecting element and / or device can each have electronic components with software-based functions (preferably automation functions). These functions are, for example, the communication and / or control functions of the system. To parameterize these functions of a particular system, device settings can be configured as necessary.

[0041] For example, it is conceivable to perform computer-aided device setup at the system level. This device setup may include, for example, device parameterization, and / or storing specification files (similar to driver installation) that enable device parameterization. It is envisioned that at least one device-specific setup specification be provided for this purpose, specifically for the connected devices. It can then be configured to transmit this at least one device-specific setup specification to at least one of the connecting elements (preferably the main element), and / or at least one of the devices connected thereto. Here, this at least one device-specific setup specification may be provided and / or transmitted based on an automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation. The provided connection documentation may also record the connection between the device and the connecting element (preferably the main element) based on the provided installation specifications.

[0042] Device-specific configuration specifications may include, for example, a device name for the corresponding device to clearly or uniquely identify the device. Further, device-specific configuration specifications may include a communication address, preferably a network address, more preferably an IP address. Device-specific configuration specifications may also include a device description, preferably an IODD, which preferably describes descriptive data such as device parameters and / or characteristics of the corresponding device, so that the device can be parameterized based on the device description. The descriptive data may further include, for example, specifications regarding the device ID and / or specifications regarding the implemented IO-Link version, and / or a description of the communication cycle time, and / or a description of the operating mode, and / or a description of the data structure used for process data, and / or a description of the unique device identifier, and / or a description of the parameterization type, and / or a description of the data width, and / or a description of the processing time.

[0043] Furthermore, it is conceivable to provide master element settings and / or device settings, wherein a device-specific name is set at at least one corresponding master element and / or at a device. This allows the use of the device-specific name for the provision of automation functions (particularly for communication between at least one control device and the device). The device-specific name is, for example, a device-specific tag according to the IO-Link specification. Unlike E / A addresses, using a device-specific name has the advantage that the name semantically indicates the device and / or its function, thus facilitating simpler programming and / or maintenance. In this way, the device-specific name can be used directly for control programming, for example. Furthermore, when one of the devices is connected to any interface of a connection element (particularly a master element), the device-specific name of the device connected to that interface can be dynamically assigned to that interface. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to spend time and effort assigning the interface's E / A address to the device's control during control programming.

[0044] Furthermore, other possibilities for parameterizing the device can be set, particularly within the engineering system (ES). For example, a first possibility is that the ES configures a controller, preferably a control device. Here, connecting elements (preferably E / A modules) along with their interfaces (preferably ports, more preferably IO-Link ports) can also be defined. A software tool (“device tool”) can be invoked from the ES, which then receives a temporary parameter file from the ES to parameterize the connected device. This software tool can specifically be configured as an IO-Link device tool. Basic functional testing of sensors or actuators can also be performed using this tool. Finally, the IO-Link device tool allows for changes to control variables and characteristic variables in sensors or actuators without altering the complex PLC control program of the system.

[0045] Another possibility is, for example, specifying information from device descriptions (especially IODDs) or datasheets, along with the corresponding device parameters, within the controller. This requires, if necessary, that the IODD information be separately programmed into the controller's data blocks. Another possibility is, for example, integrating the user's device descriptions (such as IODDs) into a GSDML file for one of the system and / or system components and / or one of the connection elements, particularly an IO-Link master. The GSDML file can be stored in the controller and used by the controller for device parameterization. Here, it can be configured that the structure (i.e., type and topology) of at least a portion of the system / component / device / connection element is stored in the GSDML, while the settings for parameterization are stored in the controller (e.g., a PLC project file). Yet another possibility is preferably that at least one connection element (preferably in the form of an Ethernet module and / or an IO-Link master module) has an internal web server, and particularly preferably, that at least one or more device descriptions (especially IODDs) can be directly imported into that connection element.

[0046] Connecting elements may "recognize" their neighbors. Connecting elements, preferably fieldbus modules, are able to discover their neighboring connected elements through discovery functions such as LLDP (Link Layer Discovery Protocol). LLDP allows connecting elements to identify their neighboring connected elements in the network by exchanging information about their identity, capabilities, and / or connectivity. The discovery function can be used at the link layer of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model and can identify network devices without manual configuration. Connecting elements supporting this discovery function, and preferably those supporting LLDP, can periodically send (LLDP) packets containing their identity and connectivity information. Other connected elements that receive these packets can read this information and identify their neighbors. This can have the advantage of at least partially announcing and / or checking the network topology.

[0047] The system may include multiple components, preferably in the form of a device and / or in the form of at least one connecting element for the device. Other components may be connecting elements, such as cables and / or plug connectors, to establish a connection between the device and the at least one connecting element.

[0048] These devices can be configured as at least one of the following: - sensor, - Actuator, - Photoelectric switch, - Binary switch, - Binary sensor, - Binary executor, - IO-Link device sensors, - IO-Link device actuator.

[0049] Device-specific configuration specifications, particularly the device description (preferably in IODD form), and / or the description data of that device description, can be designed to contain specific information about the device. This information may include, for example, descriptions of the device's functions, characteristics, configuration, or interfaces. The device description may be provided, for example, in the form of one or more files. Here, the description data of the device description can be represented using a description language such as XML (Extensible Markup Language), GSDML (General Site Description Markup Language), or DDL (Device Description Language). Examples of device descriptions include IODD (IO Device Description), FDI (Field Device Integration), ESI (EtherCAT Slave Information), and EDD (Electronic Device Description). Furthermore, it is also possible to configure the integration of the device description or description data into a GSDML file.

[0050] For parameterization, a software tool may also be used if necessary, which can transmit parameters to the device based on device-specific description data.

[0051] Another possibility is to use GSDML files. GSDML stands for "General Site Description Markup Language" and is a standardized file format used to describe at least one component of a system. Here, device descriptions or description data can be inserted into GSDML and then provided to the central controller. This enables automatic parameterization of devices connected to the connecting elements.

[0052] Furthermore, the device can be configured as an analog device and / or a digital device. Multiple devices can be connected to a single connection element. Each connection element can be configured accordingly as a distributor for the devices connected to it. Devices can be connected directly to the connection element via cables and / or plug connectors, or indirectly if necessary. Indirect connections are made, for example, through IO-Link analog converters and / or, in particular, IO-Link hubs. For example, devices in the form of binary standard sensors can be connected to an IO-Link hub. For this purpose, digital (standard) input / output (E / A) terminals can be provided at the hub.

[0053] Connecting elements (especially main elements) can form a master module, preferably an IO-Link master station. Simultaneously, the connecting elements can be configured as fieldbus modules, thus possessing a fieldbus interface. This enables networking with other connecting elements and / or networking via fieldbus with at least one or exactly one control device. This control device is, for example, a central controller such as a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). Furthermore, the control device can also be configured as a distributed controller, which, when necessary, performs control tasks directly in the field with other distributed controllers. The fieldbus module can be configured to control and / or evaluate devices connected to the connecting element based on fieldbus communication.

[0054] For example, devices (especially IO-Link devices) can be read from and written to via CoE (CAN Application Protocol over EtherCAT) and / or AoE (Automation Device Protocol over EtherCAT). At least some devices can be configured as IO-Link devices, allowing the digital transmission of information such as process data, diagnostic data, and parameterized data. Web server, IO-Link device tools, and IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) functionality can be activated via EoE (EtherCAT) communication when necessary. Additionally, other digital or analog devices can also be integrated into the system.

[0055] The system is preferably provided in the form of an electrical and / or industrial system and / or a motor and / or industrial automation system and / or a production and / or conveying and / or manufacturing system and / or an automotive production system and / or a logistics system. The system can further be configured as a hydraulic, pneumatic, fluid, or mechanical system. In this system, liquids or gases can be delivered (automatically controlled) via hoses and / or pipes or valves, or coolants can be supplied, or mechanical forces can be applied to objects to provide the desired function. Examples of such systems include hydraulic presses, pneumatic conveying systems, systems with fluid cooling mechanisms, or metal cutting systems or machine tools used in mechanical manufacturing. The structure of the system (especially fluid structures) can include piping such as hoses and / or pipes to meet technical and production-related requirements and / or for conveying consumable materials.

[0056] Installation documentation, especially installation specifications (preferably including circuit diagrams or mechanical diagrams, more preferably in digital form), can specify the construction of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, fluid, or mechanical systems, and how the various components are interconnected / wired to provide the required functions such as automation. In other words, the installation specifications specify and pre-define the topology of the system. Here, a distinction can be made between centralized and distributed topologies. In a centralized topology, equipment can primarily be directly connected to the central control cabinet, and especially to the central control unit. Conversely, in a distributed topology, multiple distributors (also called connecting elements) are used, at which only a limited number of devices can be connected individually. Connections between devices then typically lead directly to the spatially nearest distributor, and from there are either directly transmitted to the control unit or first interpreted or converted. The difference between the two topologies is therefore that in a centralized topology, most connections extend directly to the control cabinet, while in a distributed topology, multiple distributors are used to establish connections to the equipment in a distributed manner. Accordingly, system components typically located in the control cabinet should be adapted for the field. Therefore, components such as power supply devices for power supply can be configured to be waterproof, dustproof and / or moisture-proof, that is, specifically with IP67 capability.

[0057] The system may have one or more distributed control units. Each of these control units can provide and / or control only a portion of the overall functionality (preferably the system's automation functions). For this purpose, each distributed control unit can be configured as a field-usable component. This preferably means that the control unit is configured to be waterproof, dustproof, and / or moisture-proof, specifically with IP67 capability. Further, each distributed control unit can be configured as a functional module and can be modularly connected to other functional modules (e.g., power supply units for energy supply), and / or at least one of the connecting elements (particularly modules), and / or a main module (e.g., an IO-Link master station and / or a network switch and / or a motor or servo control system). This modular combination can also be configured to be waterproof, dustproof, and / or moisture-proof, specifically with IP67 capability, through appropriate sealing devices. Each distributed control unit may further include an industrial PC and / or can perform its control tasks by communicating with the equipment via connecting elements or via a fieldbus.

[0058] The system may include production lines and / or conveying technology devices and / or warehousing and picking systems and / or automated sorting systems and / or software for controlling and monitoring processes. Furthermore, the system may have multiple components. These components may include equipment, particularly operating equipment (such as actuators and / or sensors), and / or control devices and / or drives or switching devices and / or valve islands and / or the like. Additionally, the component may include connecting elements that can act as distributors for one or more devices. Furthermore, connecting members such as cables or plug connectors or the like may be used to connect the various components of the system.

[0059] As connecting components, cables and / or plug connectors conforming to standards such as M12, M8, or M5, as well as three-core cables, can be considered. This offers the advantage of ensuring quick and easy assembly of sensors and actuators. Connections can be achieved, for example, via bayonet joints or threaded connections. Plug connector contacts can be arranged in rectangular or circular structures and are available in various materials such as brass or stainless steel. Furthermore, plug connectors can have protection ratings such as IP67 to ensure reliable operation in harsh environments.

[0060] Within the framework of this invention, the connecting element can represent a distributor for field connections and / or distributed wiring of devices (such as actuators, sensors, and machines) in a system. Here, the connecting element can be configured as a fieldbus module, which can be connected to a central control unit (such as a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)) and / or to at least one distributed control unit via a fieldbus. Therefore, the fieldbus module enables communication between the control unit and the devices using fieldbus protocols (such as PROFIBUS, PROFINET, CANopen, or EtherCAT). Multiple devices can further be connected at the connecting element, and if necessary, they can also be connected via IO-Link, particularly for controlling and / or reading the devices based on / by means of received fieldbus signals. In this way, distributed automation functions of the devices can be provided.

[0061] Further possible variations of the connection element may include the direct forwarding of electrical control signals and / or sensor signals between the control unit and the equipment, if necessary. Furthermore, the connection element can be configured as an I / O connection element, where the connected device is connected to the control unit not only via a fieldbus, but also via digital or analog inputs and outputs. This connection element thus acts as an interface between the control unit and the equipment (such as sensors, actuators, and machines), and can perform signal conversion and processing from the control unit to signals usable by the equipment, and / or vice versa. Here, the inputs and outputs enable the transmission of process data to provide system functionality.

[0062] Optionally, the corresponding connecting element may be configured to have multiple light-emitting devices (preferably LEDs), which are respectively assigned to one or more interfaces (preferably ports) of the connecting element and indicate the operating status of the corresponding interface / ports.

[0063] It is possible to configure at least one connecting element to at least one of the aforementioned devices via a communication system for digital, and particularly point-to-point, communication. A specific example of such a communication system is IO-Link. IO-Link specifically refers to a communication system for connecting smart sensors and actuators to automation systems, standardized in the IEC 61131-9 standard as Single-drop digital communication interface for small sensors and actuators (SDCI). In other words, at least one of the connecting elements can therefore be configured as a connecting element for this communication system, particularly as an IO-Link module. This means that the connecting element can be configured to perform communication between the connecting element and the device connected to it via the communication system, preferably via the IO-Link standard.

[0064] IO-Link enables digital communication with devices and provides high flexibility when connecting devices from different manufacturers. Here, the connecting element can be configured as an IO-Link master (master element) or an IO-Link device, allowing for easy integration of IO-Link devices into the distributed wiring of the system. Using IO-Link also allows for efficient and reliable system control through a wide range of diagnostic and parameterization options. Furthermore, the connecting element can have a fieldbus interface (and therefore can also be configured as a fieldbus module) to enable control command transmission and / or communication with control devices and / or other connecting elements, for example, via a fieldbus.

[0065] This communication system includes, for example, a master station (preferably a master component, particularly an IO-Link master station) and one or more devices (i.e., sensors or actuators) adapted to communicate with the master station. Specifically, this can be an IO-Link device. The master station, in particular, provides an interface to a higher-level controller (i.e., a distributed or central control unit such as a PLC) and controls communication with the connected devices. The master station can have one or more ports, particularly IO-Link ports, at which only one device can be connected at a time. Alternatively, it can be a hub that enables the connection of conventional switching sensors and actuators.

[0066] This device (especially an IO-Link device) enables bidirectional communication with connected elements and / or functions as a (smart) sensor, actuator, hub, or electromechanical component such as a clamp or power supply. Here, the device can provide identification data (such as model identifiers and serial numbers) or parameter data (such as sensitivity, switching delay, or characteristic curves) that can be read or written via the communication system, particularly via the IO-Link protocol. Parameter changes can advantageously be achieved through parameterization via a device description. Furthermore, the device may be able to provide detailed diagnostic information. Parameters for devices such as sensors and actuators can be device- and technology-specific. Therefore, parameter information can be provided for individual devices, preferably in the form of a device description using an XML description language, such as IODD (IO Device Description).

[0067] A possible extension for IO-Link communication systems is IO-Link Safety. This extension provides an additional secure communication layer on top of the existing master and device layers, thereby transforming these layers into "FS-Master" and "FS-Device".

[0068] Another possible extension of the IO-Link communication system is IO-Link Wireless, which represents a physical extension of the system based on IEEE 802.15.1. Here, the IO-Link Wireless master station behaves like the master station in the parent system, while IO-Link wireless devices connect via radio links through virtual ports.

[0069] This communication system provides point-to-point communication between the master station / master component and the device. Therefore, it enables a direct connection between the master station / master component and the device without the need for intermediaries from other systems. This ensures fast and reliable communication, especially communication independent of the fieldbus.

[0070] Furthermore, the provided assembly and / or connection documentation is derived from the automatic recording of installation operations (particularly computer-guided installation and / or recording). Here, to perform the installation operation, the user can be guided step-by-step by a computer to at least partially construct the system (at least for a portion of the system), and / or connect the devices to the connecting elements. Also here, manual confirmation from the user can be detected for each installation operation, confirming that the installation operation has been performed compliantly. This allows for the recording to be made on this basis. Here, guidance and / or confirmation and / or recording can be performed with instructions for at least one specific interface (particularly a port and / or terminal) of at least one connecting element to which at least one of the devices is already connected. Furthermore, the connection of the devices to the connecting elements can be recorded in the provided assembly and / or connection documentation based on the provided installation specifications, which is done at least in the following ways: to evaluate the installation specifications for step-by-step computer guidance, and / or to record the connection with reference to the installation specifications. The records of each connection are preferably made in accordance with the specific interface / port and / or item identifier and / or serial identifier and / or manufacturer identifier and / or network address (preferably MAC address) and / or spatial coordinates (especially the installation location of the system in the mechanical representation (preferably the model)) of the connected device and / or module. All or part of these indications may be confirmed by the user before they are stored. This makes it possible to clearly or uniquely identify the device based on the stored indications, so that, for example, the setup specifications can be subsequently transmitted to the device.

[0071] The corresponding installation operation is preferably an installation step (e.g., connecting at least one device to at least one interface of a connecting element), which is performed during installation and / or maintenance and / or modernization and / or similar processes. Here, the connecting element may include a junction box, power supply unit, fuse, connection card, signal converter, motor control unit, control device, and / or the like.

[0072] It is possible to use a T-connector for connection. For example, it can be used to connect two devices to one interface / port, or vice versa, using two interfaces / ports to connect to one device. The T-connector can be used, for example, in piping systems, pneumatic or hydraulic systems, or electronic circuits. It enables efficient and reliable connections between connecting elements and equipment.

[0073] Within the framework of this invention, it may be advantageous to determine the comparison result by including the following steps, which are performed automatically (preferably during and / or after the automated recording of the installation operation): checking whether the recorded at least partial structure (at least for a part of the system) and / or the recorded connection of the device to the connecting element is consistent with the actual connection of the actual at least partial structure and / or the device to the connecting element.

[0074] Here, it is also possible to check the consistency for the specific interfaces (particularly ports and / or terminals) of the connecting elements (on which the devices are to be connected). In other words, topology comparison can be performed at the E / A level.

[0075] For example, it can be specified that the provision of actual specifications includes at least a portion of determining the actual connection between the device and the connecting element through automatic querying at the connecting element (preferably via a communication interface and / or fieldbus). This can have the advantage of accelerating the installation process and minimizing the error rate, as the checking of connections can be automated. Furthermore, automatic querying of connecting elements can also be used to identify and display potential errors in wiring. This enables rapid troubleshooting and extends system uptime.

[0076] Furthermore, it is conceivable that providing this practical specification would at least partially include: evaluating the installation location of at least one device among the connected equipment based on a mechanical model (preferably a mechanical CAD). This allows for more precise and accurate planning of the system's installation, avoiding errors and delays during the installation process. Using a mechanical model (especially a mechanical CAD) enables a detailed and realistic representation of the system and the connected equipment, thereby simplifying inspection and installation. Moreover, by evaluating references that associate different installation locations with equipment functions, the evaluation of installation locations achieves a function-related check.

[0077] It is further conceivable that providing this actual specification would include, at least in part, a visual recording evaluating at least a portion of the system. Evaluating this visual recording allows for the determination of the actual installation location of the equipment to perform function-related checks. The references described above can also be used here. For this purpose, a camera can be used for visual recording.

[0078] Furthermore, it is conceivable that providing this practical specification would include at least in part an electronic evaluation of the system's components, preferably evaluating the outputs of those components. This allows for the early identification and elimination of potential sources of failure, resulting in higher system reliability and availability. This electronic evaluation can be performed, for example, by electrical testing at the analog or digital interfaces of connecting elements, or by connecting sensors that can determine the status of the connected devices. The detected signals / data can then be transmitted to a central control unit, which performs an evaluation on the data.

[0079] It is further conceivable that providing this actual specification would include at least part of evaluating user input. This could potentially enable manual inspection of the actual structure.

[0080] According to another advantage, determining the actual connection can be specified to include at least the following steps: performing automatic identification of at least a portion of the actual topology of the system. For this purpose, topology information can be received from each connecting element, which preferably includes at least one of the following: - Instructions regarding the interfaces (particularly ports and / or terminals) where devices are connected to the connecting elements. - An identifier for the connected device, preferably accompanied by an indication of the interface (preferably a port and / or terminal) to which the device is connected for the connecting element, and / or an indication of the device's identifier. - An indication of adjacent connected elements connected in a common network (preferably fieldbus) adjacent to the connected element, and this indication is preferably determined based on the communication between the connected element and the adjacent connected elements (particularly preferably via LLDP).

[0081] This enables a reliable determination of the actual structure.

[0082] It is further conceivable that determining this actual connection includes at least the following steps: - Trigger a request to the user to elicit the definition output of at least one device in the device. - Determine the actual connection of the device based on the output generated, and in particular, determine the specific interface of the device to which the connection element is connected.

[0083] Manual actions (such as hand movements or other user interactions) can trigger signal output from a device (e.g., a sensor) to determine whether the device / sensor is connected to a preset interface. Furthermore, this triggering can be indicated by graphical output, displaying the action graphically and, in particular, animatedly. A defined timeframe can then be monitored on the connection element to detect this defined output, and the actual connection of the device can be determined based on the triggered output, specifically the connection of the connection element to the device's specific interface.

[0084] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the check could be triggered periodically and / or after each confirmed compliant installation operation and / or manually via user input and / or before commissioning, during the automatic recording of installation operations. In other words, the check of connecting components could be performed in parallel with installation or at any point in time.

[0085] Advantageously, within the framework of this invention, the determination of the comparison result includes: assigning the connections of devices and connecting elements recorded according to the provided assembly and / or connection documentation to the connections of devices and connecting elements preset according to the installation specifications, so as to extend the preset connections with the interface specifications of the assembly and / or connection documentation, which specifically specifies the specific interface (preferably port) of the connecting element where the recorded connection of the device occurs. In other words, the target planning diagram can be updated in this way. The assignment of recorded connections (according to the provided connection documentation) to preset connections (according to the installation specifications) may include, in addition to storing the ports of the connected devices, an indication of the serial number and / or MAC address of the module and / or device. Furthermore, the spatial location of the corresponding devices in the mechanical drawing of the system may also be stored as a further indication. For this purpose, after the modules and / or devices have been arranged (i.e. installed) in the system, the installation step can be confirmed by the user, thereby triggering the corresponding storage of the indication.

[0086] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the determination of the comparison results includes comparisons: - Record the connections between the equipment and connecting elements (based on assembly and / or connection documentation). and - Pre-defined connections for devices and connecting elements (according to installation specifications).

[0087] This enables the identification of discrepancies between recorded connections and preset connections, and outputs the comparison results.

[0088] Furthermore, within the framework of this invention, it is conceivable that the comparison results include: - An indication of at least one or more specific interfaces of the device that have been recorded as connected to the connection element, preferably by indicating the corresponding input and / or output address of the interface for the connection element, and / or - Check results, which indicate whether the actual connection of the device exists at the respective specific interface and / or whether the actual connection has been successfully checked.

[0089] In this way, the check can be performed efficiently and preferably at the E / A level.

[0090] Further, determining the comparison results may involve resolving ambiguities in assigning recorded device-to-connector connections (based on provided assembly and / or connection documentation) to pre-defined device-to-connector connections (based on installation specifications). This ambiguity may arise particularly from the connection of multiple structurally identical devices to one or more connecting elements. To resolve this ambiguity, spatial information regarding the actual installation locations of structurally identical devices can be evaluated, preferably by comparison with a mechanical model of the system. In other words, for structurally identical devices, the choice depends on the function and thus the installation location. Therefore, the function can be determined by referring to the MCAD (Mechanical Design Architect). For example, multiple structurally identical devices (such as photoelectric switches for monitoring different areas) may be connected to the connecting element at different interfaces via corresponding installation operations. Therefore, evaluating the identification of the devices at the interfaces is insufficient to subsequently determine which device, pre-defined in the installation specifications, is actually connected to one of the interfaces. Thus, the installation location of the devices is additionally used.

[0091] Alternatively, it can be conceivable that the assembly and / or connection documentation specifically specifies: which devices are connected to which connection elements of the system during installation and / or during installation operations, and / or in what order the devices are connected, and / or with what deviations from the installation specifications. This can have the advantage of performing the system installation more quickly and efficiently, as the assembly and connection documentation provides clear checks for the installation process.

[0092] The subject of this invention is also an apparatus for data processing, which includes devices for performing the method steps according to the invention. Therefore, the apparatus of this invention offers the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to the method of this invention.

[0093] The subject of this invention is also a computer program, particularly a computer program product, which includes instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method of this invention. Therefore, the computer program of this invention provides the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to the method of this invention.

[0094] The data processing device (such as the device of the present invention) that executes the computer program can be configured as the computer. The computer may have at least one processor for executing the computer program. Alternatively, a non-volatile data memory may be provided to store the computer program, and the computer program may be read by the processor for execution.

[0095] Similarly, it is conceivable that the computer includes at least one integrated circuit, such as a microprocessor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), application-specific standard product (ASSP), digital signal processor (DSP), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like. The computer may further have at least one interface for data exchange, such as an Ethernet interface or an interface for LAN (local area network), WLAN (wireless local area network), or system-on-a-chip (SoC), or other radio interfaces such as Bluetooth or near-field communication (NFC). Furthermore, the computer may be configured as one or more control devices, i.e., it may also be configured as a system composed of control devices. The computer may also be located in the cloud and / or act as a server to provide data processing for local applications via the interface. It is also possible that the computer is configured as a mobile device, such as a smartphone.

[0096] Computer-readable storage media containing the computer program of this invention can also be the subject of this invention. Such storage media may be configured as, for example, a data storage device, such as a hard disk and / or non-volatile memory and / or a memory card. Such storage media may, for example, be integrated into the computer.

[0097] Furthermore, the method of the present invention can also be implemented as a computer-based method.

[0098] Other advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Here, the features mentioned in the claims and specification may each be substantially significant to the invention individually or in any combination. In the drawings: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a distributed topology is shown.

[0099] Figure 2 A perspective view of the connecting elements is shown.

[0100] Figure 3 Show Figure 2 An exemplary enlarged view of region A in the middle.

[0101] Figure 4 This shows the various parts of the installation specifications.

[0102] Figure 5 It shows the computer, the graphical user interface, and the reading device.

[0103] Figure 6 A schematic visual representation of a method for implementing variations according to the present invention is shown.

[0104] exist Figure 1An exemplary distributed topology of industrial system 1 is shown. A control device 2 is shown, which may be configured as a central control unit (SPS) or as one of a plurality of distributed control devices 2. A plurality of connecting elements 10 (preferably modules 10) are further shown, which are connected to the control device 2 via a communication system (dashed lines) such as a fieldbus.

[0105] According to an optional variant, by means of Figure 1 It can be clarified that if the detection of at least a local structure of system 1 is performed at the interface level or E / A level of the connecting element 10, the correct detection of the topology is possible automatically and / or electronically. This automatic detection can be preset, for example, by providing a practical specification in which the topology can be read and digitally stored through an electronic evaluation of the interface. According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, it is therefore possible to first read the topology and then store the read topology in the (digital) practical specification for subsequent use.

[0106] Furthermore, to provide automation capabilities, multiple devices 50 are configured, which are connected to the connection element 10 in the field and / or in a distributed manner. Figure 2 and 3 The various connecting elements 10 are illustrated in further exemplary detail. Here, one or more devices 50 may be connected to each connecting element 10. For this purpose, the devices 50 (particularly via connecting members 90 such as cables and / or plug connectors) are connected to corresponding interfaces 30 (particularly ports 30) of the connecting element 10. In this way, the connecting element 10 is used to connect the respective connected devices 50 to the control device 2, and / or to distribute data and / or signal transmissions to the respective connected devices 50.

[0107] Device 50 may be, for example, an actuator 81 or a sensor 82. The connection between the connecting element 10 and at least a portion of the device 50 may be a bidirectional point-to-point connection, preferably via a communication system for digital communication (such as IO-Link). Furthermore, the connection between the connecting element 10 and at least a portion of the device 50 may be an analog and / or digital connection. In this way, the connecting element 10 enables different connection types to be used to connect the device 50. It is possible that the connecting element 10 also has various interfaces 30, particularly ports 30, adapted to the various different connection types. The interfaces 30 may be arranged on the housing 40 of the connecting element 10.

[0108] exist Figure 4The diagram shows an exemplary excerpt selected from a digital circuit diagram, which may be part of the provided installation specifications. These installation specifications may pre-define an electrical wiring for system 1, in which device 50 and connecting elements 10 are electrically connected to each other in the field and / or in a distributed manner to provide automation functions.

[0109] It is conceivable that, prior to system 1 installation, while the topology of system 1 is known through the installation specifications, it is unknown which specific connecting element connects to which specific device via which specific connecting member 90. This means that, although the required components 80 of the same type are known through the installation specifications before installation, a clear or unique allocation to specific components 80 has not yet occurred. For example, in Figure 1 As shown, one or more devices 50 can be connected to corresponding connecting elements 10. Therefore, during installation, it is possible that the connecting element 10 is selected from one of a plurality of components 80, and if necessary, the device 50 is also selected from one or more of the same type of components 80.

[0110] To simplify installation and documentation, and based on this documentation, to further simplify device setup and / or configuration and / or controller programming, installation can be supported via a computer as described below. Here, in addition to guiding the installation steps, the connection documentation can also be generated simultaneously by automatically recording these installation steps. An exemplary process is as follows: a. First, trigger output to the user, using this output to provide step-by-step guidance on performing the installation steps (see...). Figure 5 (A graphical user interface in the computer 5). The installation steps (also known as the installation operation) may include selecting, assembling, and connecting device 50 and / or connecting element 10 and / or connecting member 90. For example, the user is asked to select component 80, such as one of the connecting elements 10 or connecting member 90. To make a selection, the user scans an identifier (such as a machine-readable code) onto component 80 using a reading device 200 (such as a handheld scanner). The reading device 200 may have an interface 201 (such as a radio interface) so that an identifier for component 80 is transmitted to the corresponding interface 201 of computer 5 based on the scanned identifier.

[0111] b. Computer 5 can identify one or more possible installation locations 320 or (if connection member 90) interfaces 30 / ports 30 of connection element 10 in system 1 based on the transmitted identifier. For this purpose, a suitable location can be searched in the installation specification. This installation specification may have a digital electrical circuit diagram and an associated mechanical and / or three-dimensional representation of system 1. In the visualization of the spatial (particularly mechanical and / or three-dimensional) representation 310 of system 1, the possible installation location 320 can then be displayed on the user interface 300. If connection member 90 is selected, the light-emitting device 20 assigned to the corresponding interface 30 / port 30 may also be illuminated.

[0112] c. If necessary, the user can select one of the installation locations 320 and install or connect the component 80 at the desired installation location 320 or interface 30 / port 30.

[0113] d. The user can then confirm the installation steps. This allows computer 5 to record the installation steps and store instructions regarding the selected installation location 320 or interface 30 / port 30. For this purpose, instructions regarding interface 30 / port 30 (e.g., the address of interface 30 / port 30), and / or the identifier of component 80, and / or the name of device 50, and / or the installation location, and / or the like, can be stored in the connection documentation.

[0114] This connection document is therefore specifically used to document the connection between device 50 and connecting element 10 based on the provided installation specifications. Furthermore, this connection document can be automatically evaluated to determine the comparison results and provide them to system 1 during installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization and / or operation.

[0115] This comparison result specifically indicates whether the preset installation matches the actual installation. This is significant, for example, if the user's confirmation is incorrect and / or if the user intentionally deviates from the installation specifications. To detect this deviation through automated evaluation, a computer-aided check can be performed to verify whether the recorded connection between device 50 and connecting element 10 matches the actual connection between device 50 and connecting element 10. Here, the evaluation may also include, if necessary, an assessment of the installation specifications regarding the wiring of component 80.

[0116] This consistency can also be checked for the specific interface 30 (preferably port 30) of the connecting element 10 where the device 50 should be connected (see [link]). Figure 2 and Figure 3This can be achieved, for example, by querying the connection element 10 via a communication system or other interface which interfaces 30 / ports 30 are occupied. In some cases, such as when using an IO-Link device 50, this can also determine further details about the connected device 50 (e.g., identification or the like). Another possibility is to request the user to manually activate the device 50. For this purpose, for example, a hand movement capable of triggering sensor detection can be used at a sensor such as a photoelectric switch. At the actuator, for example, the current characteristics at the connection element 10 can be evaluated. Activation of the device 50 can result in an output of the device 50, which can be detected at the interface 30 or port 30 of the connection element 10 where the device 50 is connected. Therefore, by detecting this defined output of the device 50, the actual connection can be determined.

[0117] Furthermore, it is possible that, through automatic evaluation of the provided connection document, at least one or more device-specific setup specifications for the connected device 50 are provided, and / or the setup specifications are transmitted to at least one of the connection elements 10, and / or to at least one of the devices 50 connected thereto. Here, the setup specifications, which are preset for the at least one device 50 connected to the connection element 10 and, in particular, accurately describe the device 50, can be transmitted to the respective connection element 10 in the form of a device description. Through automatic evaluation of the provided connection document, the device description preset for the device 50 can be determined. For this purpose, the automatic evaluation, for example, evaluates the indications (e.g., device name) stored in the connection document. The transmission of the setup specifications specifically enables the automatic parameterization of the device 50.

[0118] exist Figure 6The diagram schematically illustrates a method 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. This method 100 is used herein for computer-aided installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of an industrial system 1. According to a first method step 101, an installation specification is provided, particularly an installation specification with digital circuit diagrams and / or mechanical drawings. This allows for the pre-planning of at least a portion of the structure of system 1 (particularly mechanical, hydraulic, fluid, pneumatic, and / or electrical structures), wherein, for the purpose of providing automation functions, device 50 and connecting element 10 (particularly module 10) are interconnected electrically and / or for signal and / or data exchange, particularly in a distributed manner in the field, preferably via cable or radio. This automation function includes, for example, monitoring and / or control and / or regulation at system 1. Device 50 may include sensors, actuators, controllers, computers, communication modules, storage media, and / or display elements. Connecting element 10 may be a plug connector, terminal, switch, relay, and / or fieldbus module. This distributed installation further enables a flexible and adaptable configuration of System 1, as devices 50 and connecting elements 10 can be easily added, replaced, or removed without requiring rewiring of the entire System 1.

[0119] According to step 102 of the second method, the provision of assembly and / or connection documentation may be set, which records at least the partial structure, including mechanical, hydraulic, fluid, pneumatic and / or electrical structures, and / or the connection between the device 50 and the connecting element 10, based on the provided installation specifications.

[0120] According to the third method step 103, actual specifications can be provided, which specifically specify the actual (particularly actual) at least partial structure of at least a portion of the (actual) system 1 at the (actual) system 1, and / or the actual (particularly actual) connection of the device 50 to the connecting element 10.

[0121] According to step 104 of the fourth method, a comparison result can be determined based on an automatic evaluation of the provided assembly and / or connection documentation and the actual specifications. Here, the difference between the actual specifications and the assembly and / or connection documentation can be determined, preferably as a difference between the actual at least partial structure and the recorded at least partial structure (each at least with respect to a portion of the system 1) and / or as a difference between the actual connection and the recorded connection, so that the determined difference is provided in the comparison result.

[0122] The above description of the embodiments is merely within the framework of examples to illustrate the invention. Naturally, where technically meaningful, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with each other without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

[0123] List of reference numerals

[0124] 1 System

[0125] 2. Control device

[0126] 5 devices

[0127] 6. Computer Programs

[0128] 10 Connecting elements, modules

[0129] 20 Light-emitting devices

[0130] 30 interfaces, ports

[0131] 40 Housing

[0132] 50. Equipment, sensors, actuators

[0133] 80 components

[0134] 81 First component, actuator

[0135] 82 Second component, sensor

[0136] 90 Connecting components, cables

[0137] 100 methods

[0138] 101 First Method Steps

[0139] 102 Second Method Steps

[0140] 103 Third Method Steps

[0141] 104 Fourth Method Steps

[0142] 200 Reading Devices

[0143] 201 Radio Interface

[0144] 300 User Interface

[0145] 310 Spatial Representation

[0146] 320 Installation Location

Claims

1. A method (100) for computer-aided installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of an industrial system (1), the method comprising the following steps: - Provide (101) installation specifications, particularly with digital circuit diagrams and / or mechanical drawings, to pre-define at least a partial structure of at least a portion of the system (1), in which, for the purpose of providing automation functions, the device (50) and connecting elements (10), particularly modules (10), are electrically and / or in the field interconnected for signal and / or data exchange, and / or Provide (102) assembly and / or connection documentation, wherein, preferably based on the provided installation specifications, at least partial structures including mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or fluid and / or pneumatic and / or electrical structures, and / or the connection of the device (50) to the connecting element (10) are documented. - Provide (103) actual specifications, which specifically specify the actual at least partial structure of at least a portion of the system (1) in the system (1) and / or the actual connection of the device (50) with the connecting element (10), - The comparison result is determined (104) based on the automatic evaluation of the actual specifications and the provided installation specifications and / or the assembly and / or connection documents, wherein the difference between the actual specifications and the installation specifications and / or the assembly and / or connection documents is determined, preferably as the difference between the actual at least partial structure and the recorded at least partial structure, respectively, at least for a part of the system (1), and / or the difference between the actual connection and the recorded connection is determined, so as to provide the determined differences in the comparison result.

2. The method (100) according to claim 1, Its features are, The provided assembly and / or connection documentation is derived from an automated record of installation operations, in which, in order to perform the installation operations, the user is guided step-by-step by a computer to at least partially construct the system (1) with respect to at least a portion of the system (1), and / or to connect the device (50) to the connecting element (10), and for each installation operation, the user's manual confirmation is detected that the installation operation has been performed compliantly, so that the record is made on this basis, wherein the guidance and / or the confirmation and / or the record are accompanied by indications of a specific interface (30), in particular a port and / or a terminal, of at least one of the devices (50), at least one of which is connected at the specific interface, wherein, in the provided assembly and / or connection documentation, the connection of the device (50) to the connecting element (10) is preferably recorded at least in accordance with the provided installation specifications by: evaluating the installation specifications for the step-by-step guidance performed by the computer, and / or recording the connection with reference to the installation specifications.

3. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, Determining the comparison result (104) includes the following steps, preferably performed automatically during and / or after the automated recording of the installation operation: - Check whether the recorded at least partial structure and / or the recorded connection of the device (50) to the connecting element (10) with respect to at least a part of the system (1) is consistent with the actual at least partial structure and / or the actual connection of the device (50) to the connecting element (10). In this regard, the consistency of the specific interface (30) of the device (50) to which the connecting element (10) is connected, particularly the port and / or terminal, shall also be checked.

4. The method (100) according to claim 3, Its features are, Providing the actual specifications includes at least a portion of: - The actual connection between the device (50) and the connection element (10) is determined at least in part by automatic querying at the connection element (10), preferably via a communication interface and / or fieldbus. - Evaluate the installation location of at least one of the connected devices (50) based on a mechanical model, and / or - Evaluation of at least a portion of the visual recordings of the system (1), and / or - Electronic evaluation of the components (80) of the system (1), preferably electronic evaluation of the output of the components (80), and / or - Evaluate user input.

5. The method (100) according to claim 4, Its features are, Determining the actual connection includes at least the following steps: - Perform automatic identification of at least a portion of the actual topology of the system (1), wherein, for this purpose, topology information is received from the corresponding connecting element (10), the topology information preferably including at least one of the following: - Indications for the interface (30) of the connecting element (10) to which the device (50) is connected, particularly for ports and / or terminals. - An identifier for the connected device (50), preferably with an indication of the interface (30), preferably a port and / or terminal, at the connection element (10) where the device (50) is connected, and / or with an indication of the device (50). - An indication of an adjacent connection element (10) connected to the connection element (10) in a common network, preferably a fieldbus, and the indication is preferably determined based on the communication between the connection element (10) and the adjacent connection element (10), particularly preferably by means of LLDP.

6. The method (100) according to claim 4 or 5, Its features are, Determining the actual connection includes at least the following steps: - Trigger a request to the user to elicit the definition output of at least one of the devices (50), - Determine the actual connection for the device (50) based on the output generated, and in particular determine the connection element (10) to the specific interface (30) of the device (50).

7. The method (100) according to claim 6, Its features are, The user is requested to manually activate the device (50), preferably by hand movements detected by the device (50) in the form of a sensor (50) to trigger the output.

8. The method (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 7, Its features are, The checks are triggered periodically during the automated logging of installation operations, and / or after each compliant installation operation is confirmed, and / or manually via user input, and / or before debugging.

9. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The comparison result described in (104) includes: - The connection between the device (50) and the connecting element (10) is recorded based on the provided assembly and / or connection documentation, and a preset connection between the device (50) and the connecting element (10) is assigned based on the installation specification, so as to extend the preset connection with the interface specification of the assembly and / or connection documentation, the interface specification specifically specifying the specific interface (30), preferably port, of the connecting element (10) where the device (50) has been recorded as connected.

10. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The comparison result (104) is determined to include a comparison of the following two: - The connection between the device (50) and the connecting element (10) as recorded in the assembly and / or connection documentation. and - The device (50) and the connecting element (10) are pre-connected according to the installation specifications. In order to identify the deviation between the recorded connection and the preset connection and output the comparison result.

11. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The comparison results include: - An indication that a recorded connection of at least one or more specific interfaces (30) of at least one of the devices (50) has occurred to the connection element (10), preferably by indicating the corresponding input and / or output address of the interface (30) for the connection element (10), and / or - The inspection results indicate whether the actual connection of the device (50) exists at the corresponding specific interface (30) and / or whether the actual connection has been successfully checked.

12. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The comparison result described in (104) includes: - To resolve the ambiguity in assigning the connection of the device (50) and the connecting element (10) based on the provided assembly and / or connection documentation to a preset connection of the device (50) and the connecting element (10) based on the installation specifications. The ambiguity arises in particular from connecting multiple structurally identical devices (50) to one or more connecting elements (10). To resolve the ambiguity, spatial information regarding the actual installation location of the structurally identical devices (50) is evaluated, preferably by comparison with a mechanical model of the system (1).

13. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The assembly and / or connection documentation specifically specifies which devices (50) are connected to which connection element (10) of the system (1) during installation, and / or in what order the devices (50) are connected to the connection element (10) with what deviation from the installation specifications.

14. A computer program (6) comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. An apparatus (5) for data processing, the apparatus (5) being configured to perform the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

Images