Collecting and providing data to a big data machine in a process control system

Abstract

Method (400) for providing data using a device (300) that is in communication connection with a communication network (70) of a process plant (10), wherein the process plant (10) has equipment configured to control one or more processes, and the method (400) comprises: collecting (402) data at the device (300), wherein the data includes at least one of: (i) data generated by the device (300), (ii) data produced by the device (300); and / or (iii) data received at the device (300), wherein the data correspond to at least one process controlled by the process plant (10) or by the process plant (10), and wherein one type of device (300) is included in a set of device types, the set of device types including a field device (15-22, 40-46) and a controller (352a, 352b); storing (404) the collected data in a cache (315) of the device (300);and cause (406) that at least some of the collected data is transferred to storage in a unitary logical data storage area (120) of a process control big data device (102) corresponding to the process plant (10), wherein the unitary logical data storage area (120) is configured to store, using a uniform format, several types of data from a set of data types corresponding to at least one process controlled by the process plant (10) or a process controlled by the process plant (10), and wherein the set of data types includes continuous data, event data, measurement data, batch data, computed data, and configuration data, wherein: storing the collected data in the cache (315) includes storing details of the respective times of generation and reception of the collected data together with the collected data in the cache (315);and arranging for at least part of the collected data to be transmitted, arranging for at least part of the collected data and the corresponding times of generating or receiving at least part of the collected data to be transmitted; and / or storing the collected data in the cache (315) of the device (300), arranging for the storage of the collected data in the cache (315) using a scheme that is contained in a scheme that corresponds to the uniform format used by the unitary logical data storage area (120).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to process plants and process control systems and in particular to devices that support big data in process plants and process control systems. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Distributed process control systems, such as those used in chemical, petroleum, or other process plants, typically include one or more process controllers that communicate with one or more field devices via analog, digital, or combined analog / digital buses, or via a wireless communication link or network. The field devices, which may include valves, valve actuators, switches, and transmitters (e.g., temperature, pressure, level, and flow rate sensors), are located in the process environment and generally perform physical control or process control functions, such as opening or closing valves, measuring process parameters, etc., to control one or more processes running in the process plant or process system.Intelligent field devices, such as those conforming to the well-known fieldbus protocol, can also perform control calculations, alarm functions, and other control functions typically implemented in the controller. The process controllers, which are also typically located in the plant environment, receive signals indicating process measurements taken by the field devices and / or other information relating to the field devices. They then execute a control application that, for example, runs various control modules that make process control decisions, generate control signals based on the received information, and communicate with the control modules or blocks, such as HART, running in the field devices. ® WirelessHART ® and FOUNDATION ®Fieldbus field devices are coordinated. The control modules in the controller send the control signal to the field devices via communication lines or connections in order to control the operation of at least part of the process plant or process system.

[0003] Information from field devices and the control system is typically provided via a data highway to one or more hardware devices, such as operator workstations, PCs or computer systems, historical data repositories, report generators, centralized databases, or other centralized computing devices, which are typically located in control rooms or other locations remote from the harsher plant environment. Each of these hardware devices is typically centralized across the process plant or a section of the process plant.These hardware devices execute applications that, for example, allow an operator to perform functions related to controlling a process and / or the operation of the process plant, such as changing settings of the process control routine, modifying the operation of the control modules in the controllers or field devices, viewing the current state of the process, viewing alarms generated by field devices and controllers, simulating process operation for personnel training, testing the process control software, maintaining and updating the configuration database, etc. The data highway used by the hardware devices, controllers, and field devices can include a wired communication path, a wireless communication path, or a combination of wired and wireless communication paths.

[0004] As an example, the DeltaV control system distributed by Emerson Process Management includes TMMultiple applications are stored and executed on various devices located at multiple points within a process plant. A configuration application, residing on one or more workstations or computing devices, allows users to create or modify process control modules and download these modules over a data highway to dedicated, distributed controllers. Typically, these control modules consist of communicatively linked function blocks, which are objects in an object-oriented programming protocol. Based on inputs, these blocks execute functions within the control scheme and provide outputs to other function blocks within the control scheme.The configuration application can also allow a configuration developer to create or modify operator interfaces used by a view application to display data to an operator, and to allow the operator to change settings, such as setpoints, in the process control routines. Each dedicated controller and, in some cases, one or more field devices stores a corresponding control application that executes and runs its associated and downloaded control modules to implement actual process control functionality.The view applications, which can be run on one or more operator workstations (or on one or more of the remote computing devices that are in communication link with the operator workstations and the data highway), receive data from the control application via the data highway and display this data to process control system designers, operators, or users who use the user interfaces, and can provide any number of different views, such as an operator view, an engineer view, a technician view, etc.A past data storage application is typically stored and run on a past data storage device that collects and stores some or all of the data provided over the data highway, while a configuration database application may run on a separate computer connected to the data highway to store the current process control routine configuration and associated data. Alternatively, the configuration database may reside on the same workstation as the configuration application.

[0005] The architecture of currently known process control systems is heavily influenced by limited control and device memory, communication bandwidth, and control and device processor performance. For example, the use of dynamic and static non-volatile memory in the controller is typically minimized or at least carefully managed in currently known process control system architectures. Therefore, during system configuration (e.g., a priori), a user typically has to select which data should be archived or stored in the controller, at what frequency it should be stored, and whether or not compression should be used, and the controller is configured accordingly with this limited set of data rules.As a result, data that could be useful for troubleshooting and process analysis is often not archived, and if it is collected, the useful information may be lost due to data compression.

[0006] To minimize control memory usage in currently known process control systems, selected data to be archived or stored (as specified by the controller configuration) is reported to the workstation or computer device in addition to being stored in a corresponding historical data store or data silo. Current techniques used to report this data inefficiently utilize communication resources and cause excessive control load. Furthermore, due to significant time delays in communication and sampling from the historical data store or silo, data collection and timestamping are often out of sync with the actual process.

[0007] Similarly, in batch process control systems, batch recipes and snapshots of control configuration are typically stored in a centralized, administrative computing device or location (e.g., a data silo or historical data repository) to minimize control memory usage and are only transferred to a controller when needed. This strategy results in significant shock loads on the controller and on communications between the workstation or centralized, administrative computing device and the controller.

[0008] Furthermore, the limitations of relational databases in currently known process control systems, combined with the previously high costs of disk storage, play a significant role in structuring data into independent units or silos to meet the goals of specific applications. In DeltaV TMThe system, for example, stores process models, continuous historical data, and batch and event data in three different application databases or data silos. Each silo has a different interface for accessing the data stored within it.

[0009] Structuring data in this way creates a barrier to how historical data is accessed and used. For example, the root cause of fluctuations in product quality might be linked to data in more than one of these data silos. However, due to the different file structures of the silos, it is not possible to provide tools that allow quick and easy access to this data for analysis. Furthermore, validation or synchronization functions must be performed to ensure that data across different silos is consistent.

[0010] The limitations of the currently known process plants and process control systems described above can have undesirable consequences during the operation and optimization of these plants or systems, for example, during plant operation, troubleshooting, and / or predictive modeling. For instance, such limitations necessitate tedious and time-consuming workflows to obtain data for troubleshooting and generating updated models. Furthermore, the collected data may be inaccurate due to data compression, insufficient bandwidth, or skewed timestamps.

[0011] "Big data" generally refers to a collection of one or more datasets that are so large or complex that traditional database management tools and / or data processing applications (such as relational databases and desktop statistics packages) are unable to manage them within a reasonable timeframe. Applications that utilize big data are typically transaction- and end-user focused. For example, internet search engines, social media applications, marketing applications, and commerce applications can all use and manipulate big data. Big data can be supported by a distributed database, allowing for full utilization of the parallel processing capabilities of modern multi-process, multi-core servers. SUMMARY

[0012] A device that supports big data in a process control system or plant is configured to collect all (or nearly all) of the data observed by the device (e.g., data directly generated, produced, or received by the device). As such, the device may include a processor with multiple processing elements (e.g., a multi-core processor) and / or high-density memory or cache. In one embodiment, the collected data may be stored in the device's cache. The device is further configured to transfer the collected data to a unitary, logical data storage area for historical or long-term storage as big data, for example, by streaming the data.The unitary logical data storage area is configured to store, using a uniform format, several types of data generated or produced by the process control system, or relating to the process control system, the process plant, or one or more processes controlled by the process plant. For example, the unitary logical data storage area can store configuration data, continuous data, event data, calculated data, plant data, data indicating user action, network management data, and data provided to or from systems external to the process control system or the process control plant.In one embodiment, the device's processor collects all (or nearly all) the data observed by the device and streams the collected data using a process control system big data network for storage in the unitary, logical data storage area. The device can be a node in the process control system big data network.

[0013] The process control system big data network provides an infrastructure to support large-scale data acquisition and analysis of process data and other types of device-collected data that support big data in process control environments. In one embodiment, the process control big data network or system includes a multitude of nodes to collect and store all (or nearly all) of the data generated, produced, and / or observed by devices contained within and associated with the process control system or plant. The devices described in this application can be nodes of such a process control system big data network. Another node of the process control big data network can be a process control system big data device.The process control system big data device can include the unitary, logical data storage area to which the device transfers collected data for storage or archiving.

[0014] In contrast to prior art process control systems, the identity of data collected at the devices or nodes of the process control system big data network does not need to be defined a priori or configured in the devices or nodes. Furthermore, the rate at which data, such as dynamic measurement and control data and / or various other types of dynamic and / or static data, are collected and transmitted by the devices or nodes also does not need to be configured, selected, or defined a priori. Instead, a device supporting process control big data can automatically collect or capture data generated, produced, received, or otherwise observed by the device at the rate at which the data is generated, produced, received, or observed, and can cause the collected data to be rendered in high fidelity (e.g.,(without the use of lossy data compression or any other techniques that could cause a loss of original information) are directed to the process control system big data device for storage (and optionally to other nodes or devices).

[0015] In one embodiment, a device that supports big data in a process control system or process plant is a process control device configured to control a process within the plant. The process control device may, for example, be a field device configured to perform a physical function to control the process; a controller configured to receive an input and, based on the input and a control routine, generate an output to control the process; or an input / output (I / O) device positioned between the controller and one or more field devices and communicating with them. The process control device may include a processor with multiple processing elements and / or a cache configured to store collected data.Typically, the collected data corresponds to the process plant or the process controlled within the process plant and includes data directly generated by the process control device, data produced by the process control device, and / or data directly received by the process control device. The process control device also includes an interface to a communication network through which the collected data is transferred for storage in the unitary logical data storage area. In some embodiments, a specific processing element of the device's processor may be dedicated solely to temporarily storing the collected data and causing it to be transferred to a unitary logical data storage area for historical archiving.

[0016] A method for transmitting data (e.g., big data) in a process control system or process plant uses a device that communicates with the process plant's communication network. The method may involve collecting data at the device, storing the collected data in a device cache, and transferring at least some of the collected data to a unitary logical data storage area. This unitary logical data storage area is configured to store multiple data types from a set of data types, corresponding to, for example, the process plant or the process controlled by the process plant, using a uniform format. This set of data types may include continuous data, event data, measurement data, batch data, calculated data, configuration data, and other data types.Typically, the data collected by the device corresponds to the process plant or a process controlled by the process plant and includes data generated directly by the device, data produced by the device, and / or data received directly by the device. A device type is one of a set of device types that includes a field device and a controller. In some embodiments, the set of device types may include other device types, such as user interface devices, network management devices, historical data storage devices, and / or other device types. In one embodiment, all data observed by the device is collected and arranged to be stored in the unitary logical data storage area.

[0017] In one embodiment, devices supporting big data in a process control plant or system are nodes of a process control system big data network corresponding to the process control plant or system. The multitude of devices or nodes can include process control devices, network management devices, user interface devices, gateway devices, historical data storage devices, and / or other device types. Each node or device can be configured to collect initial data that the device directly generates or receives and can temporarily store the collected data in a cache. Each node or device can cause at least a portion of the collected data to be transmitted over the communication network for storage in a unitary, logical data storage area.Furthermore, at least one node or device is configured to receive secondary data directly generated, produced, or received by another node of the plurality of nodes, and to cause the secondary data to be forwarded for storage in the unitary logical data storage area. The communication network is configured to supply data to be stored in the unitary logical data storage area, and the unitary logical data storage area is configured to store multiple types of data from a set of data types corresponding to the process plant or a process controlled by the process plant, in a uniform format. The set of data types may include, for example, continuous data, event data, measurement data, batch data, calculated data, and configuration data.

[0018] By using such devices and techniques to support big data in a process control system or plant, a process control system big data system is able to provide complex data and trend analyses for any section of stored or historical data. For example, the process control big data system can provide automatic data analysis on process data (which in state-of-the-art process control systems is contained in various database silos) without requiring any a priori configuration and without any translation or transformation. Based on the analyses, the process control system big data system can automatically provide in-depth knowledge and can suggest changes to or additions to the process control system.Additionally or alternatively, the process control system big data system can perform actions (e.g., prescriptive, predictive, or both) based on the knowledge gained. The process control system big data system also enables users to manually acquire knowledge and supports them in this process, as well as in the planning, configuration, operation, management, and optimization of the process plant and its associated resources.

[0019] Knowledge acquisition and big data techniques within a process control plant or environment differ fundamentally from traditional big data techniques. Typically, traditional big data applications are entirely transactional, end-user focused, and lack strict time constraints or dependencies. For example, an online retailer collects data related to searched products, purchased products, and customer profiles, and uses this data to personalize advertising and purchase suggestions for individual customers as they navigate the retailer's website. If a particular retail transaction (e.g., a specific data point) is inadvertently omitted from the retailer's big data analysis, the impact of this omission is negligible, especially if the number of data points being analyzed is very large.In the worst-case scenario, an advertisement or purchase suggestion cannot be tailored to a specific customer as precisely as it could have been if the omitted data point had been included in the retailer's big data analysis.

[0020] In process plants and process control environments, the dimensions of time and the presence or absence of specific data points are critical. For example, if a particular data value is not transmitted to a receiving component of the process plant within a specific time interval, a process can become uncontrolled, potentially leading to a fire, explosion, loss of equipment, and / or loss of life. Furthermore, multiple and / or complex time-based relationships between various components, units, and / or processes operating within and / or external to the process plant can affect operational efficiency, product quality, and / or plant safety.The knowledge gained from the process control system big data techniques described herein can enable the discovery and use of such time-based relationships, thereby facilitating a more efficient and safer process plant capable of producing a higher quality product.

[0021] By incorporating a multi-processor architecture and expanded memory, devices or nodes supporting big data in a process control plant or system can overcome many of the performance limitations associated with currently known devices, such as memory and processing capabilities. This enables the devices or nodes to automatically capture, store, and archive all types of data, including data useful for troubleshooting and process analysis. Furthermore, the devices or nodes in the process control system's big data network or system can efficiently utilize communication resources to reduce excessive communication load and / or time delays in communication and sampling from historical data stores or silos (e.g., controller load, batch recipe transmission, etc.).As such, all data collection, timestamping, and transmissions can be performed in sync with the actual process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] They show:

[0023] Fig. 1. A block diagram of an exemplary big data network for a process plant or process control system that includes devices supporting big data;

[0024] Fig. 2. A block diagram representing an exemplary arrangement of provider devices or nodes in the process control system big data network. Fig. 1 are included;

[0025] Fig. 3 a block diagram of an exemplary device configured to support big data in process control systems or plants;

[0026] Fig. 4 a block diagram illustrating an exemplary use of devices that support process control big data for multilayer or multi-layered caching and transfer of data for historization;

[0027] Fig. 5 a block diagram illustrating an exemplary use of devices that support process control big data for multilayer or multi-layered caching and transfer of data for historization; and

[0028] Fig. 6 A flowchart of an exemplary procedure for the use of devices that support big data in a process control system or process plant. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram of an example big data network. 100 for a process plant or a process control system 10, which includes devices that process big data in the process plant or process system 10 Support. The exemplary process control system big data network. 100 includes a process control system big data device or apparatus 102 , a process control system big data network backbone 105 and a multitude of nodes or devices 108 , which support big data and are connected to the backbone 105 are in communication links. Process-related data, plant-related data, and other data types can be accessed by a variety of devices. 108 The data can be collected and temporarily stored, and it can be used for long-term storage (e.g., "historicization") and processing via the network backbone. 105 to the process control system big data device or apparatus 102 be routed. In one embodiment, at least some of the data can be transmitted between devices or nodes of the network.100 They are directed, for example, to control a process in real time. In some configurations, at least some of the devices or nodes are 108 of the network 100 removed from the process plant or process system 10 arranged. In one embodiment, the process control system big data device 102 removed from the physical process plant 10 arranged.

[0030] Any type of itself on the process control system 10 The data obtained can be accessed on the devices 108 collected and used as big data at the process control system big data device 102 Process data can be stored. In one embodiment, process data can be collected and stored. For example, real-time process data, such as continuous data, batch data, measurement data, and event data generated during a process in the process plant, can be stored. 10Data that is controlled (and in some cases indicates the impact of real-time process execution) can be collected and stored. Process definition, arrangement, or setup data, such as configuration data and / or batch recipe data, can be collected and stored. Data relating to the configuration, execution, and results of process diagnostics can be collected and stored. Other types of process data can also be collected and stored.

[0031] Furthermore, data highway traffic and network management data relating to the backbone can be used 105 and various other communication networks of the process plant 10 obtain, on the devices 108 collected and attached to the device 102User-related data, such as data relating to user traffic, login attempts, queries, and instructions, may be collected and stored. Text data (e.g., logs, operating procedures, manuals, etc.), geospatial data (e.g., location-based data), and multimedia data (e.g., video surveillance, video clips, etc.) may be collected and stored.

[0032] In some scenarios, data relating to the process plant may be 10 (e.g. physical equipment located in the process plant) 10 (included, such as machines and devices) but may not be generated by applications that directly configure, control, or diagnose a process on the devices 108 collected and attached to the device 102Data can be stored. In one embodiment, data generated by devices and / or equipment is collected and stored. For example, vibration data and condensate drain data are collected and stored. Plant safety data can be collected and stored. Other examples of such plant data include data indicating the value of a parameter related to plant safety (e.g., corrosion data, gas detection data, etc.) or data indicating an event related to plant safety. Data relating to the health of machinery, plant equipment, and / or devices can be collected and stored, e.g., data generated by the devices and / or machinery used for diagnostic and predictive purposes. For example, equipment data (e.g., pump health data determined based on vibration and other data) is collected and stored.Data relating to the configuration, execution, and results of equipment, machine, and / or device diagnostics can be collected and stored. Furthermore, generated or calculated data useful for diagnostics and forecasting can be collected and stored.

[0033] In some embodiments, data from units external to the process plant can be 10 generated or transmitted, on the devices 108 collected and attached to the device 102 This includes data such as raw material costs, expected arrival times of parts or equipment, weather data, and other external data. In one embodiment, all data from all devices or nodes is stored. 108 , which communicate with the network backbone 105are connected, generated, produced, or received by them or otherwise observed by them, collected, and it is arranged that they are used as big data at the process control system big data device. 102 be stored. In some situations, at least some of the collected data is processed before being transferred to the big data device. 102 compressed.

[0034] Different types of data can be collected and arranged to be used as big data in the process control system's big data device. 102 be stored. For example, in some designs, dynamic measurement and control data are automatically stored by the devices. 108 for collecting at the device 102communicated. Examples of dynamic measurement and control data can include data-specific changes in process operation, data-specific changes in operating parameters such as setpoints, reports of process and hardware alarms and events such as download or communication errors, etc. In any case, in these embodiments, all types of measurement and control data are stored in the devices. 108 captured and automatically sent to the process control system big data device for storage as big data 102 communicated. In addition, static data, such as control configurations, batch recipes, alarms and events, can be automatically communicated by default when a change is detected or when a controller or other unit is first connected to the big data network. 100 is added.

[0035] Furthermore, in some scenarios at least some static metadata that describe or identify dynamic control and measurement data are sent to the big data device. 102 The data is sent when a change in the metadata is detected. For example, if a change is made to the controller configuration that affects measurement and control data in modules or units that the controller needs to send, then the controller automatically updates the associated metadata to the big data device. 102 In some situations, parameters associated with the special modules used for buffering data from external systems or sources (e.g., weather forecasts, public events, business decisions, etc.) are automatically sent to the big data device by default. 102communicated. Additionally or alternatively, surveillance data and / or other types of observation data can be automatically sent to the big data device. 102 be communicated.

[0036] Furthermore, in some embodiments, parameters added by end users are automatically sent to the big data device for storage as big data. 102 communicated. For example, an end user might perform a specific calculation in a module, add a parameter to a unit that needs to be collected, or want to collect a standard control diagnostic parameter that is not communicated by default. Parameters that the end user optionally communicates within the big data device. 102 Parameters configured to collect data can be communicated in the same way as the standard parameters.

[0037] The process control system big data network 100Can a process control system be a big data studio? 109 include, which is configured to provide a main interface to the process control system big data network for configuration and data exploration. 100 to provide, for example, a user interface or an interface used by other applications. The Process Control System Big Data Studio 109 can be accessed via the process control system big data network backbone 105 with the big data device 102 be connected or can be directly connected to the process control system big data device 102 be connected.

[0038] The multitude of devices or nodes 108 of the process control big data network 100 can have several different groups of devices or nodes 110 – 115 This includes devices that support big data in process control systems or plants. A first group of devices or nodes. 110, referred to herein as "provider nodes" 110 “or “provider devices” 110 “This term can include one or more nodes or devices that generate, transmit and / or receive process control data so that processes can be monitored in real time in the process plant environment.” 10 can be controlled. Examples of provider devices or nodes. 110 These include devices whose primary function is to generate and / or process process control data to control a process, such as wired and wireless field devices, controllers, or input / output (I / O) devices. Other examples of provider devices include... 110 include devices whose main function is to access or route through one or more communication networks of the process control system (of which the process control big data network) 100to provide (one of which is), e.g., access points, routers, interfaces to wired control buses, gateways to wireless communication networks, gateways to external networks or systems, and other such routing and networking devices. Further examples of provider devices 110 include devices whose main function is to process data and other related data that are used in the process control system 10 to be accumulated, temporarily stored, and to ensure that temporarily stored data is used for historization at the process control system big data device. 102 , e.g., historical data storage devices or historical data storage nodes.

[0039] At least one of the provider's devices 110 can be directly connected to the process control big data network backbone 105are in communication connection. In one embodiment, at least one of the provider devices is 110 communicate directly with the backbone 105 connected. For example, the wireless field device communicates with the backbone via a router, an access point, and a wireless gateway. 105 connected. Provider devices or nodes typically have 110 no integrated user interface, although some of the provider devices do. 100 They must be able to communicate with a user computer device or user interface, for example, by communicating via a wired or wireless communication link or by plugging a user interface device into a port on the provider device. 110 .

[0040] A second group of devices or nodes 112, which support big data in process control systems or plants, are referred to here as "user interface nodes". 112 “ or “user interface devices” 112 “The second group of devices 112 includes one or more nodes or devices, each having an integrated user interface through which a user or operator can interact with the process control system or process plant 10 can interact with the process plant 10 to perform related activities (e.g., configure, view, monitor, test, analyze, diagnose, order, schedule, set up, comment, and / or other activities). Examples of these user interface nodes or devices 112This includes mobile or stationary computing devices, workstations, handheld devices, tablets, surface computing devices, and any other computing devices that have a processor, memory, and an integrated user interface. Integrated user interfaces can include a screen, keyboard, miniature keyboard, mouse, buttons, touchscreen, touchpad, biometric interface, speakers and microphones, cameras, and / or any other user interface technology. Each user interface node 112 It can include one or more integrated user interfaces. User interface nodes 112 can establish a direct connection to the process control big data network backbone 105 or an indirect connection to the backbone 105 include, for example, an access point or a gateway. User interface nodes 112can communicate with the process control system-big data network backbone in a wired and / or wireless manner 105 be connected. In some embodiments, a user interface node may be 112 ad-hoc with the network backbone 105 be connected.

[0041] Of course, the multitude of devices or nodes 108 , which support big data in process control plants and systems, not only on provider nodes 110 and on user interface nodes 112 limited. One or more other types of devices or nodes 115 can also be found in the multitude of devices or nodes 108 It may contain, for example, a node. 115 a system that is external to the process plant 10 is located (e.g., a laboratory system or a material transport system) with the network backbone 105 of the system 100are in communication link. A node or device 115 can be connected to the backbone via a direct or indirect connection 105 be in communication link and a node or device 115 can be connected to the backbone via a wired or wireless connection 105 are in communication links. In some embodiments, the group may consist of other devices or nodes. 115 from the process control system big data network 100 omitted.

[0042] In one embodiment, at least some of the devices or nodes 108 , which support big data in process control plants or systems, include an integrated firewall. Furthermore, any number of devices can be used. 108 (e.g., zero devices, one device, or more than one device) each corresponding memory (in Fig. 1 by M X(marked) include devices for storing or buffering tasks, measurements, events, and other observed data in real time. A storage M X It can include high-density storage technology, for example, solid-state memory, semiconductor memory, optical memory, molecular memory, biological memory, or any other suitable high-density storage technology. In some embodiments, the memory includes M X also flash memory. Every memory M X (and in some cases the flash memory) is configured to store data coming from the respective device. 108 generated, produced, or otherwise observed, to be temporarily stored or buffered. In one embodiment of the process control system big data network. 100 Can all of these devices 110 , 112 and any number of devices 115 High-density memory M Xincluding. It goes without saying that the set of devices 108 or via a subset of the set of devices 108 different types or technologies of high-density memory M X can be used.

[0043] Any number of devices 108 (For example, zero devices, one device, or more than one device) can each include corresponding hardware that has multiple processing elements, for example, a processor that has multiple processing elements, such as multiple cores or other additional processing technologies (e.g., quantum, cellular, chemical, photon, biochemical, biological processing technologies). The processors that have multiple processing elements or additional processing capabilities are in Fig. 1 by P MCX characterized and are generally referred to herein as processors with multiple processing elements.

[0044] At least some of the devices 108 can at least one of their several processing elements of the corresponding processor P MCX to define for the temporary storage of real-time data at the node and optionally to cause the temporarily stored data to be sent to the process control system's big data device for storage. 102 be transferred. In some embodiments, the one or more dedicated processing element(s) for caching and / or transferring real-time data may be defined exclusively as such (e.g., the one or more dedicated processing element(s) may not perform any processing other than the processing related to caching and / or transferring big data from the device). 108 to be observed (refers to). At least some of the devices 108can designate at least one of their processing elements for a specific purpose in order to perform actions, in order to carry out a process in the process plant 10 to control. In one embodiment, one or more processing elements may be exclusively dedicated to performing actions for controlling a process and may not be used to cache or transfer big data. It is understood that the set of devices 108 or via a subset of the set of devices 108 different types or technologies of processors P MCX , which can be used with various technologies and multiple processing elements. In one embodiment of the process control system big data network. 100 Can all of the devices 110 , 112 and any number of devices 115 a type of processor P MCXincludes a technology that uses multiple processing elements.

[0045] Although Fig. 1 the devices 108 as each a processor P MCX with multiple processing elements as well as a high-density memory M X The representation does not necessarily mean that every device contains 108 necessarily both a processor P MCX with multiple processing elements as well as a high-density memory M X include. For example, some of the devices may 108 only one processor P MCX with multiple processing elements and no high-density memory M X , include some of the devices 108 can only use one high-density memory M X and no processor P MCX containing several processing elements, some of the devices 108 can both a processor P MCXwith multiple processing elements as well as a high-density memory M X include and / or some of the devices 108 can neither a processor P MCX with multiple processing elements and a high-density memory M X include.

[0046] Examples of real-time data from provider nodes or devices 110 Data that can be collected (and in some cases cached) can include measurement data, configuration data, batch data, event data, and / or continuous data. For example, real-time data corresponding to configurations, batch recipes, setpoints, outputs, rates, control actions, diagnostics, the health of the device or other equipment, alarms, events, and / or changes thereto can be collected. Other examples of real-time data may include process models, statistics, status data, and network and asset management data.

[0047] Examples of real-time data from user interface nodes or devices 112 Examples of data that can be collected (and in some cases cached) include user logins, user requests, data recorded by a user (e.g., by a camera, audio, or video recording device), user commands, creation, modification, or deletion of files, the physical or spatial location of a user interface node or device, and the results of any action taken by the user interface device. 112 diagnostics or tests performed and other actions or activities carried out by a user interacting with a user interface node 112 interacts, is initiated, or is related to it.

[0048] Collected data can be dynamic or static. Examples of collected data include database data, configuration data, batch data, streaming data, and / or transactional data. In general, any data that a device can collect can be collected. 108 generated, received or otherwise observed, with a corresponding timestamp or indication of a time of generation, reception or observation by the device 108 are collected (and in some cases temporarily stored). In one embodiment, all data that a device transmits is collected. 108 generated, received, or observed, with a respective indication of the time of collection / caching of each data value (e.g., a timestamp) in its memory (e.g., high-density memory M). X ) temporarily stored.

[0049] In one embodiment, each of the devices 110 , 112 (and optionally at least one of the other devices) 115) configured to automatically collect (and in some cases cache) real-time data and to cause the collected / cached data to be sent to the big data device 102 and / or to other devices 108 They can be routed without requiring lossy data compression, data subsampling, or configuring the node for data collection purposes. Therefore, the devices can 110 , 112 (and optionally at least one of the other devices) 115 ) of the process control big data system 100 automatically collect all data (e.g., measurement and control data as well as various other data types) generated, produced, received, or acquired by the device at a rate corresponding to the rate at which the data is generated, produced, received, or acquired, and can cause the collected data to be transmitted to the process control big data device with high fidelity. 102and optionally to other devices 108 of the network 100 be guided.

[0050] With renewed reference to Fig. 1. The process control system big data network backbone 105 comprise a variety of networked computer devices or switches configured to send packets to / from various device(s) 108 of the process control system big data network 100 and to / from the process control big data device 102 (which itself is a node in the process control system big data network) 100 is to be managed. The multitude of networked computer devices of the backbone 105 It can be linked by any number of wireless and / or wired connections. In one embodiment, the process control system big data network backbone can be 105 include one or more firewall devices.

[0051] The Big Data Network Backbone 105It can support one or more suitable routing protocols, e.g., protocols included in the Internet Protocol (IP) family (e.g., UPD (User Datagram Protocol), TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), Ethernet, etc.), or other suitable routing protocols. In one embodiment, at least some of the devices can 108 use a streaming protocol, such as the Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP), to cache data from the devices 108 via the network backbone 105 to the process control big data device 102 to stream. Typically, any device or node can 108 , the / the in the process data big data network 100 includes at least one application layer (and for some devices additional layers) of the backbone 105 Supported routing protocol(s). In one embodiment, each device or node 108unique in the process control system big data network 100 identified, e.g. by a unique network address.

[0052] In one embodiment, at least a part of the process control system big data network can be 100 It should be an ad-hoc network. This would allow at least some of the devices to... 108 ad-hoc with the network backbone 105 (or with another node in the network) 100 ) will be connected.

[0053] With reference to Fig. 1 is the process control system big data device or apparatus 102 in the exemplary process control system-Big Data process control network 100 in the network 100 centralized and configured to receive data (e.g., via streaming and / or another protocol) from the devices 108 of the network 100to receive and store the received data. As such, the process control big data device or apparatus can be 102 a big data device data storage area 120 for the historization or storage of data from the devices 108 , a large number of device data receivers 122 and a multitude of device request servicers 125 to be received, include each of these components. 120 , 122 , 125 the process control system big data device 102 is described in more detail below.

[0054] The process control system big data storage area 120It can include multiple physical data drives or storage units, such as RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) storage, cloud storage, or any other suitable data storage technology appropriate for storing databases or data centers. For the devices 108 of the network 100 The data storage area appears 120 However, it can be considered a single or unitary, logical data storage area or unit. As such, the data storage 120 as a centralized big data storage area 120 for the process control big data network 100 or for the process plant 10 can be viewed. In some embodiments, a single logical, centralized data storage area serves this purpose. 120 several process plants (e.g. the process plant) 10 and another process plant). For example, a centralized data storage area serves 120Several refineries belonging to an energy company. In one embodiment, the centralized data storage area 120 directly connected to the backbone 105 connected. In some embodiments, the centralized data storage area 120 via at least one high-bandwidth communication link to the backbone 105 connected. In one embodiment, the centralized data storage area includes 120 an integrated firewall.

[0055] The structure of the unitary, logical data storage area 120 In one embodiment, it supports the storage of all data relating to the process control system and the process control plant. For example, every entry, data point, or observation that is stored in the data storage area can be... 120The stored data includes an indication of the data's identity (e.g., source, device, identifier, location, etc.), the data's content (e.g., measurement, value, etc.), and a timestamp indicating when the data was collected, generated, created, received, or observed. As such, these entries, data points, or observations are referred to herein as "time-series data." The data can be stored using a uniform format within the data storage area. 120 be stored, which includes a scheme that supports, for example, scalable storage, streamed data, and low-latency queries.

[0056] In one embodiment, the scheme involves storing multiple observations in each row and using a row key with a customized hash to filter the data in the row. In one embodiment, this hash is based on the timestamp and an identifier. For example, the hash is a rounded value of the timestamp, and the identifier corresponds to an event or entity from, or associated with, the process control system. In another embodiment, metadata corresponding to each row or group of rows is also stored in the data storage area. 120 The metadata is stored either integrally with the time series data or separately from the time series data. For example, the metadata can be stored separately from the time series data in a schema-less manner.

[0057] In one embodiment, the scheme used for storing data on the device data storage is120 is also used for storing data in the cache M X at least one of the devices 108 used. Accordingly, the scheme is retained in this embodiment when data is moved from the local memory areas M. X the devices 108 via the backbone 105 to the process control system big data device data storage 120 be transferred.

[0058] In addition to data storage 120 Can the process control system big data device 102 furthermore, one or more device data receivers 122 include, each of which is configured to receive data packets from the backbone 105 to receive, process data packets to retrieve the essential data and the timestamp contained therein, and store the essential data and timestamp in the data storage area 120 to store. The device data receivers 122They can be located, for example, in a multitude of computer devices or switches. In one embodiment, multiple device data receivers are possible. 122 (and / or multiple instances of at least one data recipient) 122 ) work on multiple data packets in parallel.

[0059] In embodiments in which the received data packets are stored in the data storage area of ​​the process control big data device 120 The scheme used includes filling in the device data receiver. 122 merely additional entries or observations of the data storage area 120 with the schematic information (and can optionally store corresponding metadata if desired). In embodiments where the received data packets are stored in the data storage area of ​​the process control big data device. 120 The used scheme does not include the device data receivers. 122decrypt the packets and time series data observations or data points from the process control big data device data storage area 120 (and optionally fill in the corresponding metadata).

[0060] Additionally, the process control system big data device 102 one or more device request servicers 125 include, each of which is configured to access the process control system's big data device memory 120 Access to stored time-series data and / or metadata, e.g., at the request of a requesting unit or application. The device request servicer 125 They can, for example, be located on a multitude of computer devices or switches. In one embodiment, at least some of the device request servicers are located on a single device. 125 and the device data receiver 122on the same computer device(s) (e.g., on an integrated device) or they are included in an integrated application. In some scenarios, the device request servicers 125 Request data from the big data device storage 120 were retrieved and cleaned to remove noise and inconsistent data. In some scenarios, the device request servicers 125 Data cleansing and / or data integration on at least some of the data stored by the big data device 120 Execute retrieved data.

[0061] In one embodiment, multiple device request services can be used. 125 (and / or multiple instances of at least one device request servicer) 125 ) work in parallel on multiple requests from multiple requesting units or applications. In one embodiment, a single device request servicer can 125Serving multiple requests, such as multiple requests from a single entity or application, or multiple requests from different instances of an application.

[0062] Fig. Figure 2 shows a detailed block diagram illustrating example provider devices. 110 represents devices that support big data in process control systems or plants. Although the devices 110 with reference to the process plant or the process control system 10 out of Fig. As described in section 1, the example provider devices can be used. 110 can be used in or with other process plants or process control systems to support big data within them.

[0063] As previously described, the provider devices 110Devices whose main function is to automatically generate and / or receive process control data, which is used to execute functions to control a process in real time in the process plant environment. 10 to control, such as process controls, field devices, and I / O devices. In a process plant environment 10 Process controllers receive signals indicating process measurements performed by field devices, process this information to implement a control routine, and generate control signals that are sent to other field devices via wired or wireless communication links to control the operation of a process in the plant. 10to control. Typically, at least one field device performs a physical function (e.g., opening or closing a valve, raising or lowering a temperature, etc.) to control the operation of a process, and some types of field devices can communicate with controllers using I / O devices. Process controllers, field devices, and I / O devices can be wired or wireless, and any number and combination of wired and wireless process controllers, field devices, and I / O devices can form nodes. 110 of the process control big data network 100 be those who support Big Data.

[0064] For example, it shows Fig. 2 a control 11 , the big data in the process control network or the process control system 10 supported. The control 11 is about input / output (I / O) cards 26 and 28 with the wired field devices 15 – 22in communication link and is connected via a wireless gateway 35 and the network backbone 105 with wireless field devices 40 – 46 in communication link. (In another embodiment, the control 11 however, using a different communication network than the backbone 105 , as with any other wired or wireless communication link, with the wireless gateway 35 (are in communication link.) In Fig. 2 is the control 11 a knot 110 of the process control system big data network 100 and is directly connected to the process control big data network backbone 105 tied together.

[0065] The control 11 , which includes, for example, the DeltaV distributed by Emerson Process Management TM-Control can act, can work to use at least some of the field devices 15 – 22 and 40 – 46 to implement a batch process or a continuous process. In one embodiment, the control can 11 in addition to the communication link with the process control big data network backbone 105 using any hardware and software, for example standard 4-20 mA devices, I / O cards 26 , 28 and / or any intelligent communication protocol, such as the FOUNDATION ® Fieldbus protocol, the HART ® -protocol, the WirelessHART protocol ® -protocol etc. is linked, also with at least some of the field devices 15 – 22 and 40 – 46 are in communication link. In one embodiment, the control 11 using the Big Data network backbone105 with at least some of the field equipment 15 – 22 and 40 – 46 are in communication contact. In Fig. 2 are the controls 11 , the field devices 15 – 22 and the I / O cards 26 , 28 wired devices and field devices 40 – 46 These are wireless field devices. Of course, wired field devices could also be used. 15 – 22 and the wireless field devices 40 – 46 (any) other desired standard(s) or protocol(s), such as any wired or wireless protocol, including any standards or protocols that may be developed in the future.

[0066] The control 11 out of Fig. 2 includes a processor 30 , which contains one or more process control routine(s) (e.g., in a memory) 32(are stored), which may include control loops, is implemented or monitored. The processor 30 is configured to work with the field devices 15 – 22 and 40 – 46 and with other nodes (e.g. nodes) 110 , 112 , 115 ), which are connected to the backbone 105 to be in communication link. It should be noted that, if desired, parts of any control routines or modules described herein (including quality prediction and defect detection modules or function blocks) can be implemented or executed by different controllers or other devices. Likewise, the control routines or modules described herein, which are in the process control system 10Control routines, which are to be implemented, can take any form, including software, firmware, hardware, etc. They can be implemented in any desired software format, such as using object-oriented programming, ladder diagrams, sequential function charts, function block diagrams, or any other software programming language or design paradigm. The control routine can be stored in any desired memory type, such as main memory (RAM) or read-only memory (ROM). Likewise, control routines can be hard-coded into one or more EPROMs, EEPROMs, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or any other hardware or firmware elements. Accordingly, the control can be 11 be configured to implement a control strategy or control routine in any desired way.

[0067] In some embodiments, the control system is implemented 11 A control strategy using elements generally referred to as function blocks, where each function block is an object or another part (e.g., a subroutine) of an overall control routine and works in conjunction with other function blocks (via communications called links) to control process control loops in the process control system. 10 to implement. Control-based function blocks typically execute one of the following: an input function, such as one linked to a transmitter, sensor, or other process parameter measuring device; a control function, such as one linked to a control routine that performs PID, fuzzy logic, etc. control; or an output function that controls the operation of a device, such as a valve, to implement a physical function in the process control system. 10to execute. Of course, there are hybrid forms and other types of function blocks. Function blocks can be used in the control system. 11 These function blocks can be stored and executed, which is typically the case when they are used for or linked to standard 4-20 mA devices and some types of intelligent field devices, such as HART devices, or they can be stored and implemented in the field devices themselves, as may be the case with fieldbus devices. The control 11 can include one or more control routines 38 They include modules that can implement one or more control loops. Each control loop is typically referred to as a control module and can be executed by running one or more of its function blocks.

[0068] Other examples of devices 110 , the big data in the process plant or process system 10The wired field devices support this. 15 – 22 and the I / O cards 26 , 28 out of Fig. 2. The wired field devices 15 – 22 These can be any type of device, such as sensors, valves, transmitters, actuators, etc., while the I / O cards 26 and 28 They can be any type of I / O device that conforms to any desired communication or control protocol. Fig. 2 are the field devices 15 – 18 Standard 4-20 mA devices or HART devices connected to the I / O card via analog lines or combined analog and digital lines. 26 communicate while the field devices 19 – 22 Smart devices are like FOUNDATION ® Fieldbus field devices that communicate with the I / O card via a digital bus using a fieldbus communication protocol 28communicate. However, in some embodiments, at least some of the wired field devices can communicate. 15 – 22 and / or at least some of the I / O cards 26 , 28 using the Big Data network backbone 105 with the control 11 communicate. In some embodiments, at least some of the wired field devices 15 – 22 and / or at least some of the I / O cards 26 , 28 node 108 of the process control system big data network 100 .

[0069] The in Fig. 2 depicted wireless field devices 40 – 46 include examples of the devices 110 , the big data in the process plant or process system 10 support (e.g. device) 42a ). In Fig. 2. The wireless field devices communicate 40 – 46using a wireless protocol, such as the WirelessHART protocol, in a wireless network 70 Such wireless field devices 40 – 46 can connect directly to one or more other devices or nodes 108 of the process control big data network 100 communicate with nodes that are also configured to communicate wirelessly (for example, using the wireless protocol). To communicate with one or more other nodes 108 To communicate with devices that are not configured to communicate wirelessly, the wireless field devices 40 – 46 a wireless gateway 35 use the one that connects to the backbone 105 or is connected to another process control communication network. Although in Fig. 2 only one wireless field device 42a as Big Data in the process plant 10As shown in the supporting diagram, any number of wireless field devices that support Big Data can be used.

[0070] The wireless gateway 35 is another example of a provider device 110 , the big data in the process control plant or process control system 10 supported. The wireless gateway 35 can access various wireless devices 40 – 58 a wireless communication network 70 provide. In particular, the wireless gateway provides 35 a communication link between the wireless devices 40 – 58 , the wired devices 11 – 28 and / or other nodes or devices 108 of the process control big data network 100 ready (including the control 11 out of Fig. 2) For example, the wireless gateway 35using the Big Data network backbone 105 and / or using one or more other communication networks of the process plant 10 provide a communication link.

[0071] The wireless gateway 35 In some cases, it provides a communication link to lower layers of the wired and wireless protocol stacks (e.g., address translation, routing, packet segmentation, prioritization, etc.) through routing, buffering, and timing services, and tunnels through a common layer or layers of the wired and wireless protocol stacks. In other cases, the wireless gateway can 35 Translate commands between wired and wireless protocols that do not share protocol layers. In addition to protocol and command conversion, the wireless gateway can 35Provide synchronized timing, which is used by time slots and superframes (sets of communication time slots that are equally spaced in time) of a scheduling scheme that is compatible with the wireless network 70 The implemented wireless protocol is linked to it. Furthermore, the wireless gateway can 35 Network management and administrative functions for the wireless network 70 Provides features such as resource management, performance adjustments, network troubleshooting, traffic monitoring, security, and the like. The wireless gateway 35 can a node 110 of the process control system big data network 100 be.

[0072] Similar to the wired field devices 15 – 22 can the wireless field devices 40 – 46 of the wireless network 70 physical control functions in the process plant 10Perform tasks such as opening or closing valves or reading process parameter measurements. The wireless field devices 40 – 46 However, they are configured to use the network's wireless protocol. 70 to communicate. Accordingly, the wireless field devices 40 – 46 , the wireless gateway 35 and other wireless nodes 52 – 58 of the wireless network 70 Producers and consumers of wireless communication packets.

[0073] In some scenarios, the wireless network can 70 This does not include wireless devices. For example, a field device 48 out of Fig. 2. An old 4-20 mA device and a field device 50 It can be a traditional wired HART device. To be within the network 70 to communicate, the field devices 48 and 50 via a wireless adapter 52aor 52b with the wireless communication network 70 be connected. Additionally, the wireless adapters can 52a , 52b other communication protocols, such as Foundation ® Supports fieldbus, PROFIBUS, DeviceNet, etc. Fig. 2 is the wireless adapter 52a as a device 110 The use of big data in the process plant is illustrated. 10 supports.

[0074] Furthermore, the wireless network 70 one or more network access point(s) 55a , 55b include, which may be separate physical devices that connect to the wireless gateway 35 are in a wired connection or connected to the wireless gateway 35 as an integral device. In Fig. 2 is the network access point 55a as a device 110 The use of big data in the process plant is illustrated. 10supported. The wireless network 70 It can also include one or more routers 58 include, in order to send packets from one wireless device to another wireless device in the wireless communication network 70 to forward. In one embodiment, at least some of the routers 58 Big data in the process control system 10 provide. The wireless devices 32 – 46 and 52 – 58 can be done via wireless connections 60 of the wireless communication network 70 together and with the wireless gateway 35 communicate.

[0075] Accordingly, it includes Fig. 2. Several examples of provider devices 110 , which primarily serve to provide network routing functionality and administration to various networks of the process control system. For example, the wireless gateway includes 35 , the access points55a , 55b and the router 58 Functionalities for wireless packets in the wireless communication network 70 to route. The wireless gateway 35 performs traffic management and administrative functions for the wireless network 70 out and routes traffic to and from wired network(s) connected to the wireless network 70 are in communication connection. The wireless network 70 It can use a wireless process control protocol that specifically supports process control messages and functions, such as Wireless HART. As described in Fig. 2 shown, the devices support 35 , 55a , 52a and 42a of the wireless network 70 Big data in the process control system or process control network 10 , any number of any types of nodes in the wireless network 70However, can big data be used in the process plant? 10 support.

[0076] The devices 110 of the process control big data network 100 However, devices that support big data can also include other devices that communicate using different wireless protocols. Fig. 2 include the provider devices or nodes 110 , which support big data, one or more wireless access points 72, which uses other wireless protocols, such as Wi-Fi or other IEEE 802.11-compliant wireless LAN protocols, mobile communication protocols such as WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution) or other ITU-R (International Telecommunication Union Radiocommunication Sector)-compliant protocols, shortwave radio communications such as near-field communication (NFC) and Bluetooth, or other wireless communication protocols. Typically, such wireless access points enable 72 that handheld devices or other portable computing devices (e.g., user interface devices) 112 ) communicate via a respective wireless network that differs from the wireless network 70 differs and supports a different wireless protocol than the wireless network. 70 In some scenarios, one or more process control devices (e.g., controllers) may be used. 11 , field devices 15 –22 or wireless devices 35 , 40 – 58 ) in addition to portable computing devices using the access points 72 communicate via supported wireless networks.

[0077] The provider devices or nodes 110 , the big data in the process plant or process system 10 One or more gateway(s) can support it. 75 , 78 to systems that are external to the direct process control system 10 lie, include. Typically, such systems are consumers or providers of information from the process control system. 10 generated or edited by it. For example, a plant gateway node can 75 the direct process plant 10 (which have their own corresponding process control big data network backbone) 105(has) communicatively link with another process plant that has its own corresponding process control big data network backbone. In one embodiment, a single process control big data network backbone can 105 to operate multiple process plants or process control environments. The network 105 can be one or more process control system big data devices 102 support that is located remotely from the physical process facilities, and any big data device 102 can operate one or more process plants.

[0078] In another example, a plant gateway node can 75 the direct process plant 10 Communicate with an old process plant or a state-of-the-art process plant that does not have a process control big data network. 100 or backbone 105This includes the plant gateway node. In this example, the plant gateway node can be... 75 Messages between a protocol that runs from the process control big data backbone 105 the facility 10 is used, and convert or translate it into another protocol used by the old system (e.g., Ethernet, Profibus, Fieldbus, DeviceNet, etc.).

[0079] The provider devices or nodes 110 , the big data in the process plant or process system 10 Support can be provided by one or more external system gateway nodes. 78 include, to the process control big data network 100to communicate with the network of an external public or private system, such as a laboratory system (e.g. Laboratory Information Management System or LIMS), an operator round database, a material handling system, a maintenance management system, a product inventory control system, a production planning system, a weather data system, a shipping and distribution system, a packaging system, the Internet, another vendor's process control system, or other external systems.

[0080] Although Fig. 2 only a single control 11 with a limited number of field devices 15 – 22 and 40 – 46 As shown, this is only an exemplary and non-limiting embodiment. Any number of controllers 11 can occur in the provider's devices or nodes 110 of the process control big data network 100be included and any of the controls 11 can be used with any number of wired or wireless field devices 15 – 22 , 40 – 46 communicate to initiate a process within the plant 10 to control. Furthermore, the process plant can 10 in addition, any number of wireless gateways 35 , routers 58 , access points 55 , wireless process control communication networks 70 , access points 72 and / or gateways 75 , 78 include.

[0081] As described above, one or more of the provider devices or nodes may fail. 110 , the big data in the process plant or process system 10 support, a respective processor P MCX with multiple processing elements, each with a high-density memory M X or both a respective processor P MCXwith multiple processing elements as well as a respective high-density memory M X (in Fig. 2 marked by BD). Each provider node 100 can its memory M X (and in some embodiments, its flash memory) to collect and temporarily store data. Each of the devices 110 can cause its collected data to be sent to the process control system's big data device 102 be transferred.

[0082] Fig. Figure 3 shows a block diagram of an example device. 300 , the use of big data in process plants or systems, such as the process plant 10 out of Fig. 1 or other suitable process plants or systems. The device supports 300is configured to collect, store, and transmit data (e.g., big data) corresponding to a process plant and / or a process controlled within the process plant. In one embodiment, the device is 300 one of the provider nodes or devices 110 For example, the device can 300 a process control (e.g. the control 11 out of Fig. 2), a field device (e.g. one of the field devices 15 – 22 and 40 – 46 out of Fig. 2), an I / O device (e.g., one of the I / O cards) 26 , 28 out of Fig. 2), a network or network management device (e.g., the wireless gateway) 35 , the router 58 , the access point 72 out of Fig. 2) or be a historical data storage device whose primary function is to store data processed by the process control system 10to be accumulated and temporarily stored. In one embodiment, the device 300 a user interface device (e.g., one of the user interface nodes or devices) 112 out of Fig. 1) or the device 300 is a different type of device 115 It is noted that Fig. 3. For the sake of simplicity, the following is a description with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 described and is not to be interpreted as restrictive.

[0083] The device 300 can be a node in a network that supports big data in a process control system, such as the process control system big data network 100 out of Fig. 1 or another suitable network. As such, the device can 300 Communicates with a process control system big data network backbone, such as the backbone 105 be linked. For example, the device 300using a network interface 302 with the process control system big data network backbone 105 coupled.

[0084] In one embodiment, the device works 300 in the process plant or the process control system 10 to control a process in real time, e.g., as part of a control loop. For example, the device can 300 using a network interface 305 with a process control communication network 303 be connected via which the device 300 Signals can be transmitted to and / or received from other devices to control a process in real time within the process control system. 10 to control. The process control communication network 303 Can a wired or wireless communication network (e.g., the wireless network) 70, a fieldbus network, a wired HART network, etc.) or the process control communication network 303 It can include both a wired and a wireless communication network. Additionally or alternatively, the device can 300 Transmit and / or receive signals to control the process using the process control big data network backbone. 105 to control in real time, e.g. via the network interface 302 In one embodiment, the network interface 302 and the process control interface 305 be the same interface (e.g., an integral interface).

[0085] The process control interface 305 can be configured to transmit and / or receive data that pertains to a process of the process plant 10 or a process that takes place in the process plant 10The process control data can include measurement data (e.g., outputs, rates, etc.), configuration data (e.g., setpoints, configuration changes, etc.), batch data (e.g., batch recipes, batch conditions, etc.), event data (e.g., alarms, process control events, etc.), continuous data (e.g., parameter values, video feeds, etc.), calculated data (e.g., internal states, intermediate calculations, etc.), diagnostic data, and data relating to the health of the device. 300 or display data from another device, and / or include any other desired data. Furthermore, the process control data can include data displayed by the device. 300 were self-generated, e.g. for diagnostics, health monitoring, etc.

[0086] In one embodiment, the device 300 a process control system and the process control interface 305It is used to capture a controller configuration (e.g., from a workstation) and / or to capture data that is transmitted directly to or received from a field device connected to the controller in order to control a process in real time. For example, the controller can be connected to a wireless HART valve actuator; the valve actuator can generate process control data corresponding to a valve state and can transmit the generated data via the process control interface. 305 to provide to the controller. The received data can be stored in the controller and / or used by the controller to execute a control function or at least part of a control loop. In another embodiment, the device 300An I / O device that provides a connection between a controller and a field device. In this embodiment, the process control interface includes 305 A field device interface for exchanging process control data with the field device, and a control interface for exchanging process control data with the controller. The field device interface is connected to the control interface so that data can be transmitted from the controller to the field device and received from the field device via the I / O device. In another embodiment, the device 300 A field device that performs a physical function to control a process. For example, the device can 300 a flow rate meter that transmits process control data corresponding to a current, measured flow via the process control interface 305measures and records, and transmits a signal corresponding to the measured flow via the interface 305 sends to a controller to control a process. In one embodiment, the device 300 a process control device that transmits diagnostic information via the interface 305 via a communication network or link 303 sends / receives and causes such diagnostic information to be transmitted via the interface 302 and the big data backbone 105 to be historicized.

[0087] Although the above description describes the device 300 As described as a process control device operating in a control loop, the techniques and descriptions provided above apply equally to embodiments in which the device 300 another type of device that is connected to the process control plant or system 10 is linked. In one example, the device 300a network management device, such as an access point 72 The network management device monitors data (e.g., bandwidth, traffic, data types, network configuration, login identities and attempts, etc.) via the interface. 305 and forwards the generated data via the network interface 302 to the process control system big data network backbone 105 further. In another example, the device 300 a user interface device 112 (e.g., a mobile device, a tablet, etc.) that is configured to allow a user or operator to interact with the process control system or process plant. 10 to interact. For example, the network interface 305 in the device 300 an interface with a Wi-Fi or NFC communication link that allows the user to control activities in the process plant 10Performing actions such as configuring, viewing, scheduling, monitoring, etc., user logins, commands, and responses can be done via the interface. 305 collected and transmitted via the network interface 302 to the process control system big data network backbone 105 be transferred.

[0088] In one embodiment, the device causes 300 , which supports big data in process control plants and systems, that displays data directly from the interface 305 transmitted and / or received directly on the device 300 collected and stored for historical purposes in a unitary, logical data storage area belonging to the process plant or process system 10 This corresponds to being transmitted. For example, the device can 300 cause the display of all data transmitted via the interface 305 transmitted and received on the device 300collected and using the network interface 302 for storage in the process control system's big data storage area 120 to the process control system big data device 102 be transferred.

[0089] In addition to the interfaces 302 , 305 can the device 300 , which supports big data in process control systems, a processor 308 with multiple processing elements that is configured to execute machine-readable instructions, a memory 310 , a cache 315 and optionally a flash memory 320 include. Referring first to the processor. 308 The processor has multiple processing elements. 308 with multiple processing elements, a computer component (e.g., an integral computer component) that has two or more independent central processing units (CPUs) or processing elements 308a –308n exhibits. In contrast to a processor with a single processing element (e.g., a single-core processor), which switches back and forth between calculations and therefore can only perform one task or function at a time, the processor 308 With multiple processing elements, it is capable of executing multiple tasks or functions simultaneously or in parallel by distributing multiple calculations across the multiple processing elements. Tasks or functions that are assigned by the processor 308 Processes can be executed with multiple processing elements and can be performed across time among the processing elements. 308a – 308n can be divided. Additionally or alternatively, at least some of the processing elements can be... 308a – 308n be designed to perform one or more specific calculations or functions. In one embodiment, at least one processing element of the processor 308with multiple processing elements designed to cause data to be collected or recorded (e.g. at the interface) 305 ), in the cache 315 be saved and from the cache 315 for storage in a centralized data storage area in the process plant environment 10 (e.g. the unitary, logical data storage area) 120 out of Fig. 1) be transmitted. For example, a specific processing element may be solely for the purpose of collecting and transmitting data directly from the device. 300 (e.g. for transmission) are generated by the device 300 are generated or directly on the device 300 to be received. In one embodiment, at least one processing element of the processor is 308 with multiple processing elements designed to enhance the device 300 to operate in order to carry out a process in the process plant 10to control in real time (e.g., to send and / or receive real-time process data and / or to implement control routines to control a process). For example, a specific processing element may be solely dedicated to controlling the device. 300 to operate in order to control the process in real time.

[0090] In one embodiment, a processing element of the processor 308 with multiple processing elements exclusively intended for use with the device 300 to collect and transfer linked data for big data storage, while another processing element of the processor 308 with multiple processing elements exclusively intended to make the device 300 to operate for real-time process control. In one embodiment, a processing element of the processor is 308with multiple processing elements specifically designed to cause process control data to be cached 315 to be stored, a second processing element of the processor 308 with multiple processing elements is designed to cause the cached data (or at least part of the cached data) to be transferred to big data storage, and a third processing element of the processor. 308 with multiple processing elements is designed to enhance the device 300 to operate in order to control a process in real time.

[0091] The storage 310 of the device 300 Includes one or more tangible, non-volatile, computer-readable storage media. The storage 310can be implemented as one or more semiconductor memories, magnetically readable memories, optically readable memories, molecular memories, cellular memories and / or the memory 310 can use any other suitable tangible, non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium or storage technology. The storage 310 One example uses mass or high-density data storage technology. The storage 310 stores one or more sets of computer-readable or computer-executable instructions that can be performed by at least some of the processing elements 308a – 308n of the processor 308 can be performed with multiple processing elements to collect, cache and / or transfer data to be stored in the unitary logical data storage area.

[0092] The cache 315can use a data storage technology that is the same as the storage device. 310 The technology used is similar to, or may use a different data storage technology. The cache 315 One example uses mass or high-density data storage technology. In one embodiment, the cache includes... 315 a working memory (RAM) that is configured to be accessed by the device 300 Collected data is stored for historization in a unitary, logical data storage area, such as the process control big data storage area, before being transferred. 120 , to save. The cache 315 can be stored 310 It must be included and have a cache size. 315 It can be selectable or configurable. Generally, the cache can 315 described and read out (e.g. by the processor) 308 (with multiple processing elements) while the device 300 in operation or online. The storage M X, which in Fig. 1 and Fig. The instances shown in 2 are, for example, instances of the cache. 315 .

[0093] The cache 315 It is configured to store one or more data entries. Each data entry contains a value from the device. 300 collected data entry or data point and a corresponding timestamp or indication of a time at which the data value was taken from the device 300 generated, produced, received by it, or observed by it. Both the value of the process control data and the value in each data entry of the cache. 315 Stored timestamps can be stored in the process control system's big data storage area. 120 be transmitted and / or can be sent to other nodes and devices in the process plant environment 10 be transferred. In one embodiment, a scheme is used that is transferred from the cache. 315 for data storage on the device 300is used, contained in a scheme that is part of the Big Data storage area 120 for data storage at the process control system big data device 102 is used. In another embodiment, the data is stored in the cache. 315 according to a local schematic of the device 300 saved.

[0094] The device 300 It can collect dynamic measurement and control data, as well as various other data types, without requiring any user-provided information to a priori identify or indicate which data should be collected. This means no device configuration is required. 300 includes a display of the identities of the measurement and control data and various other types of data, which are used for the eventual historiography on the device. 300to be collected. In currently known process plants or process control systems, an operator or user typically needs to configure a process control device (e.g., a controller) to acquire measurement and control data by identifying the data to be collected or stored, and in some embodiments, by specifying the times or frequencies at which the data should be collected or stored. The identities (and optionally the times / frequencies) of the data to be collected are contained in the configuration of the process control device. In a device 300 , which supports process control big data, the device must 300However, it is not configured with the identities of the measurement and control data to be collected and the times / frequencies of collection. In fact, in one embodiment, all measurement and control data, as well as all other data types directly from the device, are 300 generated and / or received directly by him, automatically collected.

[0095] Furthermore, the rate at which measurement and control data and / or various other data types are transferred from the device must be determined. 300 collected and / or transmitted by it, also not into the device 300 This means the rate at which data is collected and / or transmitted is determined by a device configuration. 300 excluded. Instead, the device can 300 automatically cause the collected measurement and control data and various other data types to be stored in a version for historical recording by the device 300be transmitted or streamed. In one example, the device is 300 configured to stream at least some of the measurement and control data and / or other data types in real time while the data is being received from the device 300 generated, produced, received or otherwise observed (e.g. the device may 300 (The device cannot temporarily store or cache the data, or can only store the data for as long as the node needs to process it for streaming). Furthermore, the device can 300 Stream data without using lossy data compression or any other technique that may cause a loss of original information.

[0096] In one embodiment, the device stores 300 at least some of the collected data is temporarily stored in its cache. 315 and at least pushes some of the data out of its cache 315 , if the cache 315is filled up to a certain limit. The cache limit can be customized. In some scenarios, the device pushes 300 at least some of the data from its cache 315 , when a resource (e.g., network bandwidth) 105 , the processor 308 or another resource) is available in sufficient quantity. The availability threshold for a specific resource can be adjustable.

[0097] In one embodiment, the device stores 300 at least some of the collected data is temporarily stored in its cache. 315 and at least puts some of them into its cache 315 Stored data is shifted at regular intervals. The regularity of a specific time interval in which data is shifted can be attributed to the type of data or the type of device. 300 , the location of the device 300and / or other criteria. The regularity of a specific time interval can be adjusted. In some embodiments, the device represents 300 Cached data in response to a request (e.g., from the process control big data device) 102 ) ready.

[0098] With reference to the flash memory 320 of the device 300 can the flash memory 320 in storage 310 It may be included or it may be a separate storage component (such as a solid-state drive) to which the processor accesses the memory. 308 It can access multiple processing elements. The flash memory 320 can, for example, in at least some of the storage M X , which in Fig. 1 and Fig. The items shown in the images are included. Generally, flash memory stores data. 320 Device configuration data, batch recipes and / or other data that the device 300Used to resume operation after exiting an offline state. If a device configuration 300 For example, when a file is downloaded or modified, or when a new or modified batch recipe is downloaded, a snapshot of the corresponding data is stored in flash memory. 320 of the device 300 stored. The contents of the flash memory. 320 can occur during restart, recovery, or at any other time when the device is in use. 300 switching from a powered-off state to a powered-on state can be used. This can mitigate communication surges or spikes associated with transferring downloaded data from a workstation to the device. 300 after changes in the device's condition 300are linked, reduced, or eliminated. For example, delays in batch processing that occur due to the long time required to transfer recipe information to a controller can be reduced or eliminated. Additionally, in flash memory 320 Stored information is used to track changes in the device configuration and to recover from a power outage or other event that may cause the device to malfunction. 300 offline mode allows for a complete restoration of configuration parameters and / or batch recipes on the device. 300 to support.

[0099] In one embodiment, all data from the device is arranged to be transmitted. 300Data generated, produced, received, or observed by the unitary logical data storage area is stored there. For example, at least some of all observed data can be continuously streamed to the unitary logical data storage area. Observed data that is not immediately streamed can be continuously and intermittently cached. 315 (and in some cases, flash memory) 320 ) are stored. Additionally, the cache contents are stored. 315 continuously connected to the process control system big data device 102 transferred to clear the cache 315 to free up space in order to temporarily store subsequently observed data. Accordingly, a complete history of operations and device configurations in the process plant is available at any time. 10 at the big data device 102available to support operator trends, process analysis, model building, data acquisition and other relevant activities.

[0100] By transferring data to the big data device 102 can the device 300 cause at least some of the data to be stored in the cache 315 via one or more communication network(s) (e.g. the network backbone) 105 ) to the unitary, logical data storage area 120 or to an access application that accesses the data storage area 120 the big data storage device 102 corresponds to, is transmitted. Alternatively or additionally, the device can 300 cause at least some of the data to be stored in the cache 315 to the unitary, logical data storage area 120 or is streamed to the access application (e.g., using SCTP). In one embodiment, the process control system big data device 102or the access application, a subscriber of a streaming service that uses the cached data from the device 300 delivers. For example, the device is 300 a host of the streaming service.

[0101] In some embodiments, devices 300 , which support big data in process control systems, for multi-layered or multi-layered data caching and transfer in a process control network or system 10 can be used. In an example scenario, a device transmits 300 Its cached data is sent to one or more other intermediate devices or nodes, and the one or more other intermediate devices or nodes, in turn, store the received data and cause the received data to be transferred from the cache to the unitary, logical data storage area for historization (e.g., the process control system big data storage area). 120) are forwarded. In one embodiment, the one or more intermediate device(s) collect(s) its own directly generated, produced, or received data, or capture(s) this data and cause(s) the corresponding collected data to be sent to the big data storage area for historical archiving. 120 be transmitted. The one or more intermediate device(s) or node(s) is / are located between the device 300 and the big data storage area 120 or are located there, so that the location of one or more intermediate devices or nodes in the network 105 closer, denser, or more proximal to the big data storage area 120 is the location of the device 300 .

[0102] Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 are exemplary block diagrams that illustrate more detailed concepts and techniques for multilayer or multi-layered data caching and transfer using devices that support big data in a process control system. Implementations of the in Fig. 4 and Fig. The 5 techniques shown can, for example, be used by the device 300 out of Fig. 1 or from other suitable devices and / or in the process control system big data network 100 out of Fig. 1 or in other suitable networks. For the sake of simplicity, Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, however, with reference to elements in Fig. 1– Fig. 3 described.

[0103] Fig. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an exemplary use of devices or nodes that support big data in process control systems (e.g., multiple instances of the device). 300 out of Fig. 3) In particular, it shows Fig. 4 an exemplary use of such devices for multilayer or multi-layered intermediate storage and transfer of data to a centralized data storage area for storage and historization. Fig. 4 shows three exemplary levels 350 – 352 , where the plane 350 three process control devices 350a – 350c exhibits the level 351 a process control device 351a exhibits and the level 352 two process control devices 352a and 352b exhibits. The reference to Fig. However, the techniques and concepts described in 4 can be applied to any number of data caching and / or transfer levels, with each level having any number of process control devices. Although Fig. 4 only two device data receivers 122a , 122b shows that the techniques and concepts that Fig. 4 correspond, and also to any type and any number of device data receivers 122 be applied.

[0104] Each of the process control devices 350a – 350c , 351a , 352a and 352b can be an embodiment of the in Fig. 3 devices shown 300 It can be used to control one or more processes in a process control system or plant. For example, process control devices are... 350a – 350c out of Fig. 4 in level 350 represented as field devices that are configured to perform a physical function, to control a process or a process plant 10 to control a controlled process. The field devices 350a – 350c They generate process control data that, for example, corresponds to controlling the process in real time. At level 351 is the process control device351a represented as an I / O device configured to receive input from the field devices 350a – 350c to receive generated process control data. In level 352 are the process control devices 352a and 352b represented as process controllers that are configured to receive process control data from the I / O device 351a to receive. In some embodiments, the I / O device can 351a and the controls 352a and 352b each additional process control data from other devices or nodes that are in Fig. The process controls are shown in section 4. 352a and 352b Each can input the process control data and execute one or more control functions to generate an output (not shown) to control the process.

[0105] Furthermore, it shows Fig. 4. An exemplary use of process control devices 350a –350c , 351a , 352a and 352b , to enable multi-layered or multi-layered intermediate storage in the process control system or process control plant 10 to provide. Each of the process control devices 350a – 350c , 351a , 352a and 352b is in Fig. 4 as a corresponding processor P MCX with multiple processing elements, including the processor 308 with several processing elements made of Fig. 3 can act, containing shown. Each of the process control devices 350a – 350c , 351a , 352a and 352b is in Fig. 4 as a corresponding high-density memory M X , which caches 315 and the flash memory 320 out of Fig. 3 can be included, as shown. Accordingly, the field devices store 350a – 350c , the I / O device 351a and the controls352a and 352b in Fig. 4 corresponding collected data sets together with corresponding timestamps in the corresponding memory locations M7–M 12 , for example, in the manner described above. The collected data includes all data types and, in particular, cached data from other nodes or devices located downstream of the unitary data storage area. The data can be accessed on any device. 350a – 350c , 351a , 352a and 352b The data is collected at a rate consistent with the rate at which it is generated, produced, or received. In one embodiment, the collected data is processed using a scheme defined in the process control big data storage area. 120 The scheme used is included in each of the memory locations M7–M 12 stored or cached.

[0106] For example, each of the field devices 350a – 350cin the plain 350 , that the contents of the data cached in its corresponding data storage M7–M9 are sent to the I / O device 351a delivered via the process control system big data network 105 or via another communication network. As in Fig. The I / O device shown in section 4 is... 351a an example of an intermediate device or node that is in the communication path of the network 105 between the field devices 350a – 350c and the big data storage area 120 is arranged, e.g. the I / O device 351a the field devices 350a – 350c The field devices are arranged upstream. 350a – 350c can send their corresponding cached data to the I / O device 351a or the field devices 350a – 350c They can stream and regularly send the contents of their corresponding cached data to the I / O device. 351a transmitted.

[0107] In level 351 The I / O device stores 351a in memory M 10 those from the field devices 350a – 350c (and in some embodiments also data received from other devices) received data together with other data that the I / O device 351a directly generated and received, between. The data that arrives at the I / O device 351a (including the contents of the field device cache) 350a – 350c ) collected and temporarily stored, can then be sent to the controllers 352a and 352b transmitted and / or streamed, as using the communication network 105 or another communication network. In one embodiment, a portion of the I / O device is used. 351a cached data to the controller 352a transferred and another part of the data at the I / O device 351a The cached data is sent to the controller. 352btransferred. The controls 352a , 352b are in Fig. 4 is represented as another set of intermediate devices that are in the communication path of the network. 105 between the field devices 350a – 350c and the big data storage area 120 are arranged 350a – 350c B. are the controls 352a , 35b the field devices 350a – 350c and the I / O device 351a upstream.

[0108] In level 352 The controls save 352a and 352b each in corresponding memory M 11 and M 12 corresponding from the I / O device 351a received data between and summarize the data from the device 351a together with data that the controls 352a and 352b They generate and receive each directly themselves. In Fig. 4 initiate the controls 352a and 352bthen, that the collected, cached data is sent to the process control big data storage area 120 delivered and / or streamed.

[0109] Each of the controls 352a and 352b can at least some of the corresponding cached data be sent to one or more device data receivers 122a , 122b transferred (e.g. using the network backbone) 105 In one embodiment, at least one of the controls pushes 352a or 352b at least some of the data from its corresponding cache (e.g., memory M) 11 or M 12 ), when the cache is filled to a certain limit. In one embodiment, the cache limit can be adjustable. At least one of the controllers 352a or 352b can at least push some of the data out of the relevant cache if a resource (e.g., network bandwidth) is unavailable.105 or another resource) is available in sufficient quantity. The availability threshold of a specific resource may be adjustable in one embodiment.

[0110] In some embodiments, at least one of the controls pushes 352a or 352b at least some of the data stored in the corresponding cache is shifted at regular intervals. The regularity of a specific time interval at which data is shifted can be based on the type of data, the type of controller, the location of the controller, and / or other criteria, and the regularity of a specific time interval can be customizable. In some embodiments, at least one of the controllers represents 352a or 352b Data is provided in response to a request (e.g., from the process control big data device). 102 ).

[0111] In some embodiments, at least one of the controllers streams. 352aor 352b at least some of their respective collected data in real time, while the data from each of the controllers 352a and 352b The data may be generated, produced, or received (e.g., the controller may not be able to store or buffer the data, or may only be able to store the data long enough to process it for streaming). For example, at least some of the data may be sent to the device data receivers using a streaming protocol. 122a , 122b streamed. In one embodiment, at least one of the controllers hosts 352a , 352b a suitable streaming service and at least one of the data recipients 122a , 122b and / or the data storage area 120 can subscribe to the streaming service.

[0112] Accordingly, transmitted data can be viewed by the device data recipients. 122a and 122bfor example via the network backbone 105 be received. In one embodiment, a specific device data receiver is used. 122a or 122b Designed to receive data from one or more specific devices or nodes. In one embodiment, a specific device data receiver is used. 122a or 122b Designed to receive data only from one or more specific types of devices or nodes (e.g., controllers, routers, or user interface devices). In some embodiments, a specific device data receiver is used. 122a or 122b designed to receive only one or more specific types of data (e.g., only process control data or only network management data).

[0113] The device data receiver 122a and 122b can cause the data to be stored in the big data device storage area 120stored or archived, e.g. as part of the big data set belonging to the process plant 10 This corresponds to an example. In one example, the device data receivers are... 122a and 122b received data using the process control big data scheme in the data storage area 120 saved. In Fig. 4 are the time series data 120a as separate from corresponding metadata 120b stored and displayed, although at least some of the metadata 120b in some embodiments integral with the time series data 120a can be saved.

[0114] In one embodiment, data transmitted via the multitude of device data receivers is 122a and 122b received, integrated, so that data from multiple sources can be combined (e.g., in the same group of rows of the data storage area). 120Typically, but not necessarily, data transmitted via the multitude of device data receivers 122a and 122b received in a raw format in the big data device storage area 120 stored. In some scenarios, at least some of the received raw data can be cleaned to remove noise, inconsistent data, or outlier data. For example, a device request servicer 125a , 125b retrieving data in raw format or in a cleaned format from the big data device storage area 120 Request stored data. If cleaned data is requested, the process control system's big data device can be used. 102 Raw data from the storage area 120 Retrieve and clean the retrieved data before sending the cleaned data to the request servicer. 125a , 125b be provided.

[0115] With reference to Fig. 5 is Fig. 5 a block diagram illustrating an exemplary use of devices that support big data in process control systems and plants for multilayer or multi-layered data caching and transfer. Fig. 5 includes three exemplary levels 380 – 382 , where the plane 380 three devices 380a – 380c exhibits the level 381 two devices 381a and 381b exhibits and the level 382 two devices 382a and 382b exhibits. The reference to Fig. However, the five described techniques and concepts can be applied to any number of levels, which may contain any number of devices. Each of the devices 380a – 380c , 381a – 381b or 382a – 382b can a provider node or device 110 , a user interface node or device 112or another node or device 115 , which supports big data in a process control environment or plant.

[0116] Additionally, each of the devices can 380a – 380c , 381a , 381b , 382a and 382b one embodiment of the device 300 out of Fig. 3 be. In Fig. 5 is each of the devices 380a – 380c , 381a , 381b , 382a and 382b as a corresponding processor P MCX with multiple processing elements (which the processor 308 with several processing elements made of Fig. 3 may include) and a corresponding high-density memory M X (who cached) 315 and the flash memory 320 out of Fig. 3 may contain) shown containing.

[0117] As in Fig. As shown in 5, each of the devices 380a – 380c in level380 a different type of device. In particular, the device is 380a represented as a field device configured to perform a physical function to control a process or a process plant 10 to control a controlled process. The device 380b It is depicted as a router configured to route wireless packets within a wireless network from one wireless device to another. The device 380c is represented as a user interface device that is configured to allow a user or operator to interact with the process control system or process plant 10 to interact. In Fig. Each of the devices generates 5. 380a – 380c observed data and stores it together with corresponding timestamps in corresponding storage locations M 14 –M 16 between and transmits and / or streams the content in the storage M 14 –M16 then to devices or nodes that are in the next level 381 are included.

[0118] In level 381 are the devices 381a and 381b represented as past data storage devices that are configured to be accessed by the devices 380a – 380c received data and / or other data that are used in the entire process control system 10 be collected, temporarily in the corresponding storage areas M 17 and M 18 to store (e.g., to store between). In some embodiments, the historical data storage devices 381a and 381b configured to receive specific data types at a layer, or data from specific devices or nodes at that layer. For example, the historical data storage device receives 381a Data from all devices or nodes at the level 380 In another example, the past data storage device receives381a exclusively data from field devices (e.g. the field device) 380a ) and network devices (e.g. the router) 380b ) at the level 380 In another example, the historical data storage device receives 381b only user interface-related data, such as user commands, user requests, etc., from user interface devices (e.g., the user interface device). 380c ) at the level 380 .

[0119] As in Fig. 5 shown, transmits and / or streams at least one past data storage device (e.g. the past data storage device). 381a ) in some embodiments at least a portion of its cached data directly to the big data storage area 120 (e.g. via the device data receiver) 122a In some embodiments, the past data storage devices transmit and / or stream data. 381a and 381bthe contents in the memory M 17 and M 18 to the next level 382 . On the plain 382 is the device 382a represented as another past data storage device and the device 382b is represented as a process control system. The historical data storage device 382 receives and stores data from the historical data storage devices 381a and 381b in memory M 19 (for example, it temporarily stores them). Furthermore, the historical data storage device can 382a be configured to receive data from the controller 382b to receive, e.g. when the control 382b proximally near the historical data storage device 382a is located or when the control 382b is located at the same caching level as the historical data storage device 382a In some cases, the control 382bembedded data analytics applications include those that require control 382b It reads both real-time process control data and historical streaming data from the historical data store. 382a recorded. As soon as the data is retrieved from the historical data storage device 382a The historical data storage device delivers and / or streams data that was received and stored. 382a The collected data in any case via the one or more device data recipients 122a , 122b to the process control big data storage area 120 .

[0120] In general, different types of data can be accessed at different nodes of the process control system big data network using various layered or multi-layered schemes. 100They are temporarily stored. In one embodiment, data corresponding to the control of a process is stored in a multi-layered manner using provider devices. 110 , whose main function is to control (e.g., field devices, I / O devices, controllers, as in the example in Fig. (Scenario 4 shown), cached and delivered, whereas data corresponding to network traffic is delivered using provider devices. 110 , whose main function is traffic management (e.g., routers, access points, and gateways) are cached and delivered. In one embodiment, data about past data storage nodes or devices is delivered to the unitary, logical data storage area, as in Fig. Figure 5 illustrates this. For example, downstream providers (e.g., located further away from the big data device) deliver or stream data. 102(arranged) past data storage nodes or devices cached data to upstream (e.g. closer to the big data device) 102 arranged) past data storage nodes or devices and ultimately the past data storage nodes or devices that are directly downstream of the process control big data device deliver or stream 102 are arranged, corresponding cached data for storage at the process control big data device 102 .

[0121] In one embodiment, multilayer or multi-layered data caching or node transfer is used. 110 executed using the process control system big data network backbone 105 communicate with each other. In one embodiment, at least some nodes communicate with each other. 110 , which are involved in multi-layered or multi-level caching, cached data at nodes110 at a different level that uses a different communication network and / or protocol, such as HART, WirelessHART, Fieldbus, DeviceNet, Wi-Fi, Ethernet or another protocol.

[0122] Although multi-layered or multi-layered caching with reference to provider devices or nodes 110 As described, the concepts and techniques can of course be applied equally to user interface device nodes. 112 and / or other types of devices or nodes 115 These devices support big data in process control systems and plants. In one embodiment, a subset of the devices or nodes performs this function. 108 multilayered or multi-layered data caching and transfer, while another subset of the devices or nodes 108 caused their cached / collected data to be sent directly to the process control big data device. 102They are delivered without being cached or stored at an intermediate node. In some embodiments, historical data storage nodes cache data of several different types on devices or nodes, e.g., from a provider device. 110 and from a user interface device 112 .

[0123] Fig. Figure 6 shows a flowchart of an example procedure. 400 for the use of devices to support big data in process plants and process control systems. The procedure 400 can be used, for example, with the device 300 out of Fig. 3. This can be carried out using the multilayer or multi-layered data caching and transfer techniques from Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, with the provider nodes or devices 110 out of Fig. 2 and / or with the multitude of devices or nodes 108 of the process control big data network 100 out of Fig. 1. In one embodiment, the method is 400 through at least part of the process control system big data network 100 out of Fig. 1 implemented.

[0124] In one block 402 Data can be collected on a device that supports big data in process control plants or networks. The device can communicate with a process plant or process control system's communication network, such as the process control system's big data network. 100The device can be a field device, a process controller, an I / O device, a gateway device, an access point, a routing device, a network management device, a user interface device, a historical data storage device, or any other device configured to collect big data associated with the process plant or a process controlled by the process plant. The collected data can include measurement data, event data, batch data, calculated data, configuration data, and continuous data. Accordingly, the collected data generally includes all types of data generated, produced, received, or observed by the device. The data can be collected without any prior identification of the data being included in the device's configuration.Furthermore, the measurement and control data, as well as various other data types, can be collected at the process control device at a rate of generation by the device, a rate of production by the device, or a rate of reception at the device, again without the rate having to be included a priori in the configuration of the device.

[0125] In one block 404 The collected data, along with an indication of when the data was captured or collected on the device (e.g., a timestamp), can be stored in a cache. The cache is, for example, contained within the device itself. In one embodiment, the data and its corresponding timestamp can be stored in a single entry of the cache. In embodiments where multiple values ​​of the data are captured over time (block), 402Each value, along with its corresponding timestamp, can be stored in the same entry or in a different entry of the cache. The schema used by the cache to store entries can be contained within a schema used by a data storage unit where the cached data is to be historized, such as the process control big data storage area. 120 or another suitable big data storage area. In some embodiments, the block 404 Omitted, for example, when collected data is streamed directly from the device to a process control system big data storage area for historical recording.

[0126] In one block 406 The system will ensure that at least some of the data stored in the cache is transferred to a unitary, logical storage area corresponding to the process plant (e.g., the big data storage area). 120out of Fig.1) thereby freeing at least a portion of the cache to store subsequent data. The unitary logical data storage area is configured to store multiple types of data relating to the process plant or the process controlled by the process plant, using a uniform format or scheme. In one embodiment, data transfer involves causing at least a portion of the data in the cache to be transferred periodically. Additionally or alternatively, data transfer involves causing at least a portion of the data in the cache to be streamed. In another embodiment, data transfer involves selecting or specifying a cache entry for transfer, whereby the contents (e.g., the value of the data and the corresponding timestamp contained in the selected entry) can be transmitted to the communication network.In some embodiments, the process reverses. 400 to block 402 The process of collecting, storing, and transferring data is repeated.

[0127] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the data that is transferred to the unitary logical memory area for storage (block) 406The data is transmitted via the communication network to other process control devices or nodes located in the communication network between the process control device and the unitary logical data storage area. These other process control devices or nodes can be configured to temporarily store at least some of the data and forward at least that portion of the data to the unitary logical data storage area. In one embodiment, at least some of the data transmitted to the unitary logical storage area is also transmitted to other devices or nodes of the process control system or process control plant. 10 transmitted.

[0128] Embodiments of the techniques described in the present disclosure may include any number of the following aspects, either individually or in combination: 1. A method for providing data using a device that is in communication link with a communication network of a process plant, wherein the process plant includes devices and equipment configured to control one or more processes. The method may include collecting data at the device, wherein the data includes at least one of: (i) data generated by the device (e.g., for transmission from the device), (ii) data produced by the device, or (iii) data received at the device. The data may correspond to at least one of the process plant or a process controlled by the process plant, and one type of device may be included in a set of device types, wherein the set of device types includes a field device and a controller.The method may further include storing the collected data in the device's cache and causing at least some of the collected data to be transferred for storage in a unitary logical data storage area of ​​a process control big data device corresponding to the process plant. The unitary logical data storage area may be configured to store, using a uniform format, multiple types of data from a set of data types corresponding to at least one of the process plant or the process controlled by the process plant. The set of data types may include continuous data, event data, measurement data, batch data, calculated data, and configuration data. 2. A method according to the preceding aspect, wherein the data collection comprises at least one of: collecting all data generated for transmission by the device, collecting all data produced by the device, or collecting all data received by the device. 3. A method according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the data collection comprises at least one of: collecting data generated by the device for transmission at a generation rate, collecting data generated by the device at a generation rate, or collecting all data received by the device at a receive rate. 4. Method according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the collection of data on the device comprises the collection on the device of at least one data type contained in the set of data types. 5. A method according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein: the data is first data, the device is a first device, and the set of device types further includes an input / output (I / O) device having a field device interface and a control interface. Additionally, the method may further include receiving second data at the first device, at least one of which is (i) generated for transmission from a second device, (ii) generated by the second device, or (iii) received at the second device, wherein the second device has a device type of one of the field device, the controller, or the I / O device. The method may include storing the second data in the cache of the first device and causing at least some of the second collected data to be transferred for storage in the unitary logical data storage area of ​​the process control big data device. 6. Method according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the first device comprises a device type of a field device, controller or I / O device. 7. A method according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein initiating the transfer of at least part of the second collected data comprises the integral transfer of at least part of the second collected data with at least part of the first collected data. 8. A method according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein storing the collected data in the cache includes storing indicators of corresponding times of generation or reception of the collected data together with the collected data in the cache; and wherein causing at least part of the collected data to be transmitted includes causing at least part of the collected data and the corresponding times of generation or reception of at least part of the collected data to be transmitted. 9. A method according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein storing the collected data in the device's cache comprises storing the collected data in the cache using a scheme that is contained in a scheme that conforms to the uniform format used by the unitary logical data storage area. 10. A procedure according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein initiating the transmission of the data includes streaming the data. 11. Method according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein streaming the data includes streaming the data using a Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP). 12. A procedure according to any of the preceding aspects, further comprising the provision of a streaming service through which the data is streamed to one or more subscribers of the streaming service. 13. Method according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein causing the transfer of at least part of the data for storage in the unitary logical data storage area comprises the transfer of at least part of the data via a communication network to another device located in the communication network between the device and the unitary logical data storage area. 14. Method according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the transfer of at least part of the data to the other device comprises the transfer of at least part of the data to at least one of: a process control device configured to control the process in the process plant in real time, a network management or routing device, or another device configured to temporarily store at least part of the data and forward at least part of the data to the unitary logical data storage area. 15. Method according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the set of device types further includes an input / output (I / O) device having a field device interface and a control interface, a user interface device, a gateway device, an access point, a routing device and a network management device. 16. A device for controlling a process in a process plant, comprising an interface to a communication network of the process plant and a cache configured to store data (e.g., to temporarily store data). The data may include at least one of: (i) data generated for transmission by the device, (ii) data produced by the device, or (iii) data received by the device, and the data may correspond to at least one process of the process plant or the process controlled in the process plant. The device may include a multi-processor, comprising at least one processing element dedicated to causing the data to be stored in the cache and to causing at least a portion of the data to be transmitted over the communication network for storage in a centralized data storage area corresponding to the process plant.The device can be a process control device, for example, a field device configured to perform a physical function to control the process, a controller configured to receive an input and generate an output based on the input to control the process, or an input / output (I / O) device located between the field device and the controller and communicating with them. In one embodiment, the device can be configured to perform any part of or any of the preceding aspects. 17. Device according to the preceding aspect, wherein at least one of the following applies: a first processing element of the multi-processor serves to cause the data to be stored in the cache; a second processing element of the multi-processor serves to cause at least part of the data to be transferred; or a third processing element of the multi-processor serves to operate the device in order to control the process in the process plant in real time. 18. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein at least one of the following applies: the first processing element of the multi-processor serves exclusively to at least cause the data to be stored in the cache, or to cause at least part of the data to be transferred, or the third processing element of the multi-processor serves exclusively to operate the device in order to control the process in the process plant. 19. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the centralized data storage area is a unitary, logical data storage area of ​​a process control big data device corresponding to the process plant. The unitary, logical data storage area can be configured to store, using a uniform format, several types of data corresponding to at least one process controlled by the process plant or within the process plant. The various data types can be contained in a set of data types that includes continuous data, measurement data, event data, calculated data, configuration data, and batch data. 20. Device according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the uniform format of the unitary logical data storage area comprises a uniform schema, the uniform schema including a local schema used to store the data in the device's cache. 21. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the processor is configured with multiple processing elements to cause at least the portion of the data stored in the cache to be streamed over the communication network. 22. Device according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the processor is configured with multiple processing elements to provide a streaming service to which at least one of the centralized data storage area or an access application corresponding to the centralized data storage area is connected. 23. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the data stored in the cache includes at least one of measurement data, calculated data, configuration data, batch data, event data or continuous data. 24. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the data, together with corresponding timestamps, are stored in the cache. Each corresponding timestamp can indicate a time of generation or reception of data of a corresponding data entry contained in the data, and the multi-processor can be configured to cause at least the portion of the data and the corresponding timestamps corresponding to at least that portion of the data to be transferred for storage in the centralized data storage area. 25. Device according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein a configuration of the device excludes indicators of one or more identities of data to be collected and stored in the cache. 26. Device according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the data to be stored in the cache includes at least one of (i) all data generated for transmission by the device, (ii) all data produced by the device, or (iii) all data received by the device. 27. Device according to any of the preceding aspects, further comprising flash memory configured to store at least one of: (i) at least part of a configuration of the device or (ii) a batch recipe corresponding to the device, wherein the device accesses contents of the flash memory to resume operation after an offline state has been terminated. 28. Device according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the communication network includes at least one of a wired communication network or a wireless communication network. 29. Device according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the interface is a first interface, the communication network is a first communication network, and the device further comprises a second interface coupled to a second communication network that is different from the communication network, wherein the second interface is used by the device to at least transmit or receive signals in order to control the process in real time. 30. A system for supporting big data in a process plant, wherein the system includes a communication network having a plurality of nodes. The communication network can be configured to provide data for storage on a unitary logical data storage area, and the unitary logical data storage area can be configured to store, using a uniform format, several types of data from a set of data types corresponding to at least one process of the process plant or a process controlled by the process plant. The set of data types can include continuous data, event data, measurement data, batch data, computed data, and configuration data.

[0129] Each node of the plurality of nodes can be configured to (i) cache corresponding initial data, at least one of which is generated, produced, or received at any node, and (ii) cause at least a portion of the cached data to be transferred via the communication network for storage or historization in the unitary logical data storage area. At least one node of the plurality of nodes is further configured to (iii) receive secondary data, at least one of which is generated, produced, or received by another node of the plurality of nodes, and (iv) cause the secondary data to be transferred for storage in the unitary logical data storage area. The system can include a device according to any one of the preceding aspects and / or can execute at least part of a procedure according to any one of the preceding aspects. 31. System according to the preceding aspect, wherein the plurality of nodes includes a controller configured to receive a set of inputs, determine a value of an output and cause the output to be transmitted to a field device to control the process in the process plant, and wherein the first field device is configured to perform a physical function based on the output of the controller to control the process. 32. System according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the communication network is a first communication network and wherein the controller is configured to do at least one of: receiving at least one input of the set of inputs at an interface to a second communication network or causing the output to be transmitted to the field device via the interface to the second communication network. 33. System according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the field device is a first field device, the controller contains at least one node of the plurality of nodes configured to receive the second data, and the other node is the first field device or a second field device. 34. System according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein: a first node of the plurality of nodes is arranged in the communication network between a second node of the plurality of nodes and the unitary logical data storage area, the first node is contained in the at least one node of the plurality of nodes that is configured to receive the second data, which is at least one generated by, produced by or received at the other node; and the other node is the second node. 35. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first node is further configured to temporarily store the received second data. 36. System according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the second node of the plurality of nodes is arranged in the communication network between the first node and a third node of the plurality of nodes, and wherein the second node is configured to (i) buffer the second data, (ii) buffer third data which is at least one of generated by, produced by or received at the third node, and (iii) cause the buffered data to be transferred to the first node to be forwarded for storage in the unitary logical data storage area. 37. System according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the communication network supports a streaming protocol. 38. System according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein at least one node of the plurality of nodes is configured to host a corresponding streaming service to which at least the unitary logical data storage area or an access application of the unitary logical data storage area is subscribed. 39. System according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein a scheme used by at least a subset of the plurality of nodes to temporarily store the corresponding initial data is contained in a scheme that is in the uniform format used by the unitary logical data storage area. 40. System according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the plurality of nodes includes at least two devices from a set of devices comprising a controller, a field device, an input / output (I / O) device, a user interface device, a gateway device, an access point, a routing device, a historical data storage device, and a network management device. The controller may be configured to receive a set of inputs, determine a value of an output, and cause the output to be transmitted to a field device to control the process in the process plant. The field device may be configured to perform a physical function based on the controller's output to control the process, and the I / O device may include a field device interface and a controller interface. 41. Any number of any of the above aspects in combination with any number of other claims or aspects above.

[0130] When implemented in software, any of the applications, services, and engines described herein can be stored in any tangible, non-volatile, computer-readable memory, such as on a magnetic disk, laser disk, solid-state storage device, molecular storage device, or other storage medium, in the RAM or ROM of a computer or processor, etc. Although the exemplary systems disclosed herein are disclosed as including software and / or firmware executed on hardware alongside other components, it should be noted that such systems are merely exemplary and are not to be considered limiting. For example, it is conceivable that any or all of these hardware, software, and firmware components could be implemented exclusively as hardware, exclusively as software, or in any combination of hardware and software.Although the exemplary systems described herein are presented as being implemented in software running on a processor or on one or more computer devices, it is readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the examples provided are therefore not the only way to implement such systems.

[0131] Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific examples which are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the invention in any way, it is therefore apparent to those skilled in the art that changes, additions or deletions can be made to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0132] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited non-patent literature

[0133] IEEE 802.11

[0076]

Claims

[1] Method for providing data using a device that is in communication link with a communication network of a process plant, wherein the process plant has equipment configured to control one or more processes, and the method comprises: Data collection on the device, where the data includes at least one of: (i) Data generated by the device, (ii) Data generated by the device; and / or (iii) Data received by the device, wherein the data correspond to at least one process controlled by the process plant or a process controlled by the process plant, and where one type of device is included in a set of device types, the set of device types includes a field device and a controller; Storing the collected data in a device cache; and To arrange for at least some of the collected data to be transferred to a unitary, logical data storage area of ​​a process control big data device corresponding to the process plant, wherein the unitary logical data storage area is configured to store, using a uniform format, multiple types of data from a set of data types corresponding to at least one process of the process plant or a process controlled by the process plant, and the set of data types includes continuous data, event data, measurement data, batch data, calculated data and configuration data. [2] Method according to claim 1, where the data collection includes at least one of: collecting all data generated by the device, collecting all data produced by the device, or collecting all data received by the device; and / or where the data collection includes at least one of: Collecting device-generated data at a generation rate of Collecting all data generated by the device at a generation rate or Collect all data received by the device at a given reception rate. [3] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the collection of the data on the device comprises the collection on the device of at least one type of data which is included in the set of data types. [4] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the data are first data, the device is a first device, and the set of device types further includes an input / output (I / O) device that has a field device interface and a control interface; and The procedure also includes the following: Received on the first device from second data, which are at least one of (i) generated or produced by a second device or (ii) received at the second device, the second device being of a device type different from the field device, controller or I / O device; Storing the second data in the cache of the first device; and To ensure that at least some of the second set of collected data is transferred to the unitary, logical data storage area of ​​the process control big data device for storage; wherein preferably the first device comprises a device type of one from the field device, the controller or the I / O device; and / or wherein initiating the transfer of at least part of the second collected data preferably comprises the integral transfer of at least part of the second collected data with at least part of the first collected data. [5] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Storing the collected data in the cache includes storing information about the respective times of generation and reception of the collected data together with the collected data in the cache; and This includes arranging for at least part of the collected data to be transmitted, and arranging for at least part of the collected data and the corresponding times of generation or reception of at least part of the collected data to be transmitted; and / or Storing the collected data in the device's cache includes storing the collected data in the cache using a scheme that is contained in a scheme that conforms to the uniform format used by the unitary logical data storage area. [6] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein initiating the transmission of the data comprises streaming the data, wherein the streaming of the data preferably includes streaming the data using a Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP); and / or wherein the method preferably further comprises providing a streaming service through which the data is streamed to one or more subscribers of the streaming service; and / or wherein initiating the transfer of at least part of the data for storage in the unitary logical data storage area preferably comprises the transfer of at least part of the data via a communication network to another device that is arranged in the communication network between the device and the unitary logical data storage area. [7] Method according to any of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 6, wherein the transfer of at least part of the data to the other device comprises the transfer of at least part of the data to at least one of: a process control device configured to control the process in the process plant in real time, a network management or routing device, a historical data storage device or another device configured to temporarily store at least part of the data and forward at least part of the data to the unitary logical data storage area. [8] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the set of device types further includes an input / output (I / O) device having a field device interface and a control interface, a user interface device, a gateway device, an access point, a routing device, a historical data storage device and a network management device. [9] Process control device for controlling a process in a process plant, comprising the following: an interface to a communication network of the process plant; a cache that is configured to store data, wherein the data includes at least one of: (i) data generated by the process control device for transmission, (ii) data generated by the process control device, or (iii) data received by the process control device, and wherein the data correspond to at least one process controlled by the process plant or the process plant; and a processor with multiple processing elements, comprising at least one processing element dedicated to causing the data to be stored in the cache and to causing at least some of the data to be transmitted via the communication network for storage in a centralized data storage area corresponding to the process plant, where the process control device is one of: a field device that is configured to perform a physical function to control the process, a controller configured to receive input and generate output based on that input to control the process; and / or an input / output (I / O) device that is positioned between the field device and the controller and connects them communicatively. [10] Process control device according to claim 9, wherein at least one of: A first processing element of the processor with multiple processing elements serves to cause the data to be stored in the cache; A second processing element of the processor with multiple processing elements serves to ensure that at least part of the data is transferred; or A third processing element of the multi-processor serves to operate the process control device in order to control the process in the process plant in real time. preferably at least one of the following applies: The first processing element of the multi-processing element processor serves exclusively to at least cause the data to be stored in the cache, or to cause at least part of the data to be transferred, or The third processing element of the multi-processor serves exclusively to operate the process control device in order to control the process in the process plant. [11] Process control device according to one of claims 9 to 10, wherein: The centralized data storage area is a unitary, logical data storage area of ​​a process control big data device that corresponds to the process plant. the unitary logical data storage area is configured to store multiple types of data, corresponding to at least one process of the process plant or a process controlled in the process plant, using a uniform format, and the various data types are contained in a set of data types that includes continuous data, measurement data, event data, calculated data, configuration data, and batch data, wherein preferably the uniform format of the unitary logical data storage device comprises a uniform schema, wherein the uniform schema includes a local schema that is used to store the data in the cache of the process control device. [12] Process control device according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the processor is configured with multiple processing elements to cause at least the part of the data stored in the cache to be streamed over the communication network, wherein preferably the processor is configured with multiple processing elements to provide a streaming service to which at least one of the centralized data storage area or an access application corresponding to the centralized data storage area is subscribed. [13] Process control device according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the data stored in the cache includes at least one of measurement data, calculated data, configuration data, batch data, event data or continuous data; and / or wherein the data are stored in the cache together with corresponding timestamps, each corresponding timestamp indicating a time of generation or reception of data of a corresponding data value contained in the data; and wherein the processor is configured with multiple processing elements to cause at least the portion of the data and the corresponding timestamps corresponding to at least the portion of the data to be transferred for storage in the centralized data storage area. [14] Process control device according to any one of claims 9 to 13, where a configuration of the process control system excludes indicators of one or more identities of data to be stored in the cache, wherein preferably the data to be stored in the cache contains at least one of (i) all data generated by the process control device, (ii) all data generated by the process control device, or (iii) all data received by the process control device. [15] Process control device according to any one of claims 9 to 14, further comprising a flash memory configured to store at least one of: (i) at least part of a configuration of the process control device or (ii) a batch recipe corresponding to the process control device, wherein the process control device accesses a content of the flash memory to resume operation after an off-line state has been terminated. [16] Process control device according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein the communication network comprises at least one of a wired communication network or a wireless communication network, and / or wherein the interface is a first interface, the communication network is a first communication network and the process control device further comprises a second interface coupled to a second communication network which is different from the communication network, wherein the second interface is used by the process control device to transmit or receive at least one of the signals in order to control the process in real time. [17] System for supporting big data in a process plant, the system comprising: a communication network that has a large number of nodes, wherein the communication network is configured to route data to be stored in a unitary, logical data storage area, and is preferably designed to support a streaming protocol, wherein the unitary logical data storage area is configured to store, using a uniform format, multiple types of data from a set of data types corresponding to at least one process of the process plant or a process controlled by the process plant, and wherein the set of data types includes continuous data, event data, measurement data, batch data, computed data and configuration data; wherein each node of the plurality of nodes is configured to (i) cache appropriate initial data, at least one of which is generated, produced, or received by each node, and to (ii) cause at least some of the cached data to be transferred via the communication network for storage on the unitary logical data storage area; and wherein at least one node of the plurality of nodes is further configured to (iii) receive second data which is at least one generated, produced or received by another node of the plurality of nodes, and to (iv) cause the second data to be transferred for storage on the unitary logical data storage area. [18] System according to claim 17, wherein the multitude of nodes includes a controller configured to receive a set of inputs, determine a value of an output, and cause the output to be transmitted to a field device to control the process in the process plant, and where the field device is configured to perform a physical function based on the controller's output in order to control the process, wherein preferably the communication network is a first communication network and wherein the controller is preferably configured to do at least one of: Receiving at least one input of the set of inputs at an interface to a second communication network or connection, or To cause the output to be transmitted to the field device via the interface to the second communication network or connection, and / or where: the field device or a first field device the control in which at least one node of the multitude of nodes configured to receive the second data is contained, and the other node is the first field device or a second field device. [19] System according to one of claims 17 or 18, wherein: a first node of the multitude of nodes in the communication network is arranged between a second node of the multitude of nodes and the unitary, logical data storage area; the first node containing at least one of the plurality of nodes configured to receive the second set of data, at least one of which is generated by, produced by, or received at the other node; and the other node is the second node wherein preferably the first node is further configured to temporarily store the received second data, and / or where: the second node of the multitude of nodes in the communication network is located between the first node and a third node of the multitude of nodes; and the second node is configured to (i) to temporarily store the second data, (ii) to store third data between nodes, which are at least one of which are generated by, produced by or received at the third node and (iii) to cause the cached data to be transferred to the first node to be forwarded for storage in the unitary logical data storage area. [20] System according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein at least one node of the plurality of nodes is configured to host a corresponding streaming service subscribed to by at least the unitary logical data storage area or an access application of the unitary logical data storage area, and / or wherein a scheme used by at least a subset of the plurality of nodes to temporarily store the corresponding first data is contained in a scheme that is in the uniform format used by the unitary logical data storage area. [21] System according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the plurality of nodes includes at least two devices from a set of devices comprising: a controller configured to receive a set of inputs, determine a value of an output, and cause the output to be transmitted to a first field device to control the process in the process plant, wherein the first field device is configured to perform a physical function based on the output of the controller to control the process; the first field device or one / the second field device; an input / output (I / O) device that has a field device interface and a control interface; a user interface device; a gateway device; an access point; a routing device; a historical data storage device; and a network management device.