Procedure for commissioning a field device with automated loop check

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (100) for commissioning a field device (10) in an automation system (30) that includes a higher-level control unit (30). In the method (100) according to the invention, a simulation value (25) to be output is specified to the field device (10) by a handheld device (20). In the higher-level control unit (30), a logical measuring point (36) is determined at which the simulation value (25) is output. The determined logical measuring point (36) is compared to a target measuring point (38). If they match, the field device (10) is operated via the existing communicative fieldbus connection (19). The invention also relates to a corresponding computer program (40), a handheld device (20), a corresponding field device (10), and a correspondingly equipped automation system (50).Furthermore, the invention relates to a simulation method (200) and a simulation program product (60) with which the operating behavior of such an automation system (50) can be simulated.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for commissioning a field device and a computer program product designed for this purpose. The invention also relates to a handheld device and a field device with which the commissioning method can be carried out. Furthermore, the invention relates to an automation system equipped with such a field device. Finally, the invention relates to a simulation method for a corresponding field device and an associated simulation program product.

[0002] German patent application DE 10 2014 219 856 A1 discloses a system for verifying the installation of control system components in a plant. This system uses a portable computing and communication device designed to communicate with the plant's control system. To perform a one-person loop check, test signals are simulated and compared with a software algorithm of the control system. The simulated test signals are then compared with archived values ​​to determine whether the corresponding electrical connection between the control system and a field device is correctly configured.

[0003] Application DE 10 2007 041 240 A1 discloses a method for improving a diagnostic function of a field device connected via a PLC to a knowledge system running on a server. A user establishes a WLAN connection to the server using a PDA. Simultaneously, a radio connection is established between the field device and the knowledge system.

[0004] Automation systems incorporate a multitude of field devices that provide the desired functionality of the automation system. Modern automation systems have an increasing number of field devices, so the effort required to commission these devices increases with the complexity of the automation systems. There is a need for a method for commissioning field devices that offers a high degree of protection against incorrect installation while simultaneously being easy to implement. Cost-effectiveness is also a key objective. The invention addresses the problem of providing a method that offers an improvement in at least one of the outlined aspects.

[0005] The problem is solved by a method according to the invention, which is designed to commission a field device in an automation system. The field device can, for example, be configured as a sensor, in particular as a temperature sensor, pressure sensor, flow meter, level meter, scale, anemometer, pH meter, image acquisition system, microphone, vibration sensor, magnetic field sensor, photocell, gas analyzer, or chromatograph. Alternatively, the field device can be configured as an actuator, for example as an electric motor, hydraulic motor, servo motor, or valve actuator. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the field device can also be configured as a combination device comprising several of the aforementioned sensors and actuators. The automation system also includes a higher-level control unit by which at least one section of the automation system can be controlled.For this purpose, the higher-level control unit must be connectable to at least the field device that is commissioned using the method according to the invention. The higher-level control unit can be, for example, an I / O module such as a so-called Compact Field Unit, a control system, or a programmable logic controller (PLC). In a first step of the method, the field device is provided, and a communicative fieldbus connection is established between the field device and the higher-level control unit. The communicative fieldbus connection is configured to transmit measurement signals or measured values ​​from the field device to the higher-level control unit and / or to transmit control commands from the higher-level control unit to the field device. The communicative fieldbus connection can be wired, for example, via a fieldbus such as AS-i, HART, Foundation Fieldbus, CAN bus, CANopen, Modbus, PROFINET, PROFIBUS, EtherCAT, Ethernet / IP, etc.Alternatively, the communicative fieldbus connection can also be implemented as an analog signal connection, allowing the transmission of standard signals such as a 4-20 mA signal or a 0-10 V signal. The communicative fieldbus connection is the link between the field device and the higher-level control unit, enabling productive operation of the automation system after commissioning. Establishing the communicative fieldbus connection also links the field device to a logical measuring point within the higher-level control unit. The logical measuring point is a description of the measuring point within the context of the intended architecture of the automation system. For example, the logical measuring point might describe the expected measured value or signal as a temperature measurement at a specific location within the automation system.The logical measuring point can be specified, for example, by a control program and / or a project planning program on the higher-level control unit.

[0006] The method according to the invention comprises a second step in which a first connection is established between a handheld device and the field device. The handheld device can be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, a notebook, an augmented reality system, or a virtual reality system. The first connection between the handheld device and the field device can be a wireless or a wired connection. Likewise, in the second step, a second connection is established between the handheld device and the higher-level control unit. The second connection is preferably a wireless connection. The wireless connection can be established, for example, via WLAN or cellular network, in particular as a 3G, 4G, 5G, or 6G connection. Via the first or second connection, the handheld device is configured to communicate with the field device or the higher-level control unit independently of the fieldbus connection.

[0007] In a third step of the process, a simulation value to be output is specified to the field device via the handheld device. This simulation value can replace any measurement signal, measured value, and / or return value from the field device that the field device can send to the higher-level control unit. The simulation value can take any absolute value or a signed value. Alternatively or additionally, the simulation value can also have a different format than the measurement signal or measured value it replaces. In particular, the simulation value can also be of a different variable type than the measurement signal or measured value it replaces. For example, the simulation value can be a text string, while the replaced measured value is defined as a numeric variable. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the simulation value can also have a predefined waveform, such as a ramp, a sine, or a square wave.Similarly, the simulation value can be used as a return value to simulate a status signal from the field device, such as an error message, a drift warning, or a service notification. The simulation value is therefore independent of the field device or its intended use in the automation system. In the third step, the logical measuring point in the control unit where the simulation value is output is determined. For this purpose, the handheld device can query the measurement signals, measured values, and / or return values ​​received by the higher-level control unit, in combination with its logical measuring point. Also in the third step, a label for the determined logical measuring point is output to the handheld device. This label can be predefined by the control program or the engineering program.In particular, the designation may include a description of the logical measuring point in natural language or in an abbreviation logic used in the automation system.

[0008] Furthermore, a fourth step is part of the inventive method, in which the logical measuring point determined in the third step is compared with a predetermined target measuring point. This comparison can be performed by the user and / or an algorithm, in particular an artificial intelligence. The target measuring point can be stored in the handheld device for this purpose. The target interface can be defined, in particular, by a configuration of the automation system, which is independent of the current settings of the higher-level control unit at the time the inventive method is carried out. The target measuring point can also be defined by an artificial intelligence and / or a user who performs the method. If the target measuring point corresponds to the determined logical measuring point, i.e., if it is identical to it, the field device is connected to the higher-level control unit as intended.Accordingly, the field device is operated via the communicative fieldbus connection established in the first step. If the determined logical measuring point deviates from the target measuring point, a warning is issued to the user and / or a data interface.

[0009] The method according to the invention allows a signal input to be generated at the higher-level control unit using the simulation value, which can be easily and automatically identified. This makes it possible to reliably determine which logical measuring point the field device is connected to. From this, it is then possible to reliably derive the designation belonging to the corresponding logical measuring point. This also allows for easy verification of whether the field device is installed correctly or not. Consequently, the method according to the invention can be carried out by only one person. In particular, the feedback from the higher-level control unit to the user is performed automatically by the method according to the invention. A second user, and thus an additional potential source of error, is thereby eliminated. Overall, the commissioning of the field device becomes more reliable, less error-prone, and faster.Furthermore, the method according to the invention is based on readily available handheld devices and is therefore cost-effective to implement.

[0010] In one embodiment of the claimed method, in the second step, at least one designation of the field device stored in or on the field device is detected. This designation is then transmitted to the higher-level control unit. The field device designation can, for example, be stored in a memory within the field device or on a data carrier attached to the field device. This data carrier can, for example, be a label attached to the field device. Such a label can be, among other things, an RFID chip, an optically readable code (e.g., a QR code), or a written inscription. In the third step of the method, the field device designation, along with the designation of the logical measuring point, can be output to the handheld device.This provides an additional identification feature for the fourth step, alongside the designation of the logical measuring point. Furthermore, the higher-level control unit can be equipped with artificial intelligence trained to assign the field device to a suitable logical measuring point based on its designation. This further supports the commissioning of the field device within the automation system.

[0011] Furthermore, the designation of the field device stored in or on the field device can be checked for plausibility against the configuration data of the automation system using artificial intelligence, particularly on the higher-level control unit. This configuration data can be predefined by a configuration program in which the automation system is designed. For example, the designation stored in or on the field device can include a type specification, a parameter set, and / or a predefined label. The type specification can, for example, indicate whether the field device is a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a scale, an image acquisition system, a gas analyzer, etc., and accordingly, what types of measurement signals, measured values, or return values ​​are to be expected from the field device. This reveals whether the field device is fundamentally compatible with the logical measuring point to which it is connected.The parameter set, in turn, can include information about a measuring range, such as a temperature interval. The temperature interval indicates, among other things, whether a temperature sensor is designed to measure the temperature of a molten metal or the ambient temperature. Accordingly, the plausibility of the existing logical measurement point can be verified based on the field device's parameter set. Furthermore, the predefined label can contain information in natural language and / or information according to an abbreviation logic used in the automation system. Consequently, an artificial intelligence, such as a large-language model (LLM), can use the label to check for plausibility.The claimed method is suitable for automatically using information available in the automation system and / or field device to check an existing communicative fieldbus connection between the field device and the higher-level control unit.

[0012] Furthermore, in the third step, the simulation value can be specified to an evaluation unit of the field device. This simulation value blocks out a measured value, a measurement signal, or a return value from the field device. In the claimed method, the field device is operated as intended, so that it acquires at least one intended quantity and generates measurement signals, measured values, or return values ​​that are transmitted to or generated by the evaluation unit. The measurement signals, measured values, or return values ​​can be transmitted from the evaluation unit to a communication unit of the field device, which provides the communicative fieldbus connection. By blocking out the measurement signals, the measurement signals or measured values ​​are at least not effectively transmitted from the evaluation unit to the communication unit.Instead, at least one simulation value is provided in the evaluation unit for forwarding to the communication unit. In other words, the measurement signals, measured values, or return values ​​from the intended operation of the field device are overridden or superseded by the simulation value in the claimed method. This does not impair the continued operation of the field device. Consequently, setting a physical commissioning mode is unnecessary. Instead, the claimed method is essentially data-driven. This simplifies the claimed method overall, allowing for accelerated data processing. Therefore, the speed achievable in the claimed method is essentially limited only by the data transmission speeds of the fieldbus connection and the handheld device connections.Furthermore, the error response behavior of the higher-level control unit can be tested if the simulation value replicates a return value from the field device that is configured as an error message.

[0013] In a further embodiment of the claimed method, the simulation value is a current value, in particular a 4...20 mA signal. Such a simulation value can be an analog value used for data transmission in a variety of fieldbus systems. The claimed method is therefore applicable to a wide range of communicative fieldbus connections. Furthermore, fieldbus connections with 4...20 mA signals often contain little metadata, making errors difficult to detect in the event of incorrect installations. The claimed method further increases the safety during the construction of corresponding automation systems.

[0014] In a further embodiment of the claimed method, a predefinable sequence of simulation values ​​can be specified to the field device in the third step. Correspondingly, the logical measuring point at which the sequence of simulation values ​​is output is determined in the third step. The predefinable sequence can, for example, comprise a sequence of values ​​for the simulation values ​​that is not possible or at least not realistic for measurement signals, measured values, or return values ​​in the intended operation of the field device. For example, the sequence can comprise a series of jumps in the simulation value. The simulation values ​​in the sequence can include values, durations, and / or pauses between individual simulation values. The sequence can thus form a data-technical analogue of a tone sequence or melody.The sequence can be predefined by the user, an algorithm, or artificial intelligence, for example, on the handheld device. The sequence can be defined based on a field device designation, particularly a type designation. For example, a field device configured as a temperature sensor could be programmed with a rapid, alternating sequence of extremely high and extremely low temperatures that cannot occur in technical processes. Alternatively or additionally, the simulation value can be a value that is physically impossible or at least not measurable by the field device. The simulation value could, for example, be a temperature below zero Kelvin or a local velocity greater than the speed of light. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the simulation value could also be a value or sequence that...which is not expected in real measurements. For example, the measured value can be a palindrome across all its digits, a series of palindromes, or a temporal sequence of palindromes. Furthermore, the simulation value can be a monotonically increasing or decreasing sequence of digits, such as 12345678901234567890 or a sequence of such values. Such simulation values ​​are easily and automatically identifiable. The more conspicuous the simulation value or sequence of simulation values ​​is, the more reliably the logical measurement point at which the simulation value or sequence is output can be identified. Several of the outlined types of simulation values ​​can also be combined to achieve a higher degree of error reliability.

[0015] Furthermore, in the third step, the location of the field device can be recorded and compared with a target location. The field device's location can be determined by ascertaining its position, for example, via a satellite tracking system, Wi-Fi hotspot data, and / or Bluetooth beacons. The target location can be specified, for example, by a design program in which the automation system is planned. This ensures that, in automation systems such as refineries, it can be verified whether the field device belongs to the intended section of the automation system. This prevents incorrect installations, especially in automation systems with spatially distributed, identical production lines. Overall, this further increases the reliability achievable with the claimed method.Furthermore, the geodata of the field device can be stored in the higher-level control unit. This makes it easy to locate the field device quickly in the event of later maintenance.

[0016] Furthermore, the comparison in the fourth step of the process can automatically generate a tamper-proof protocol, which is stored on the handheld device and / or the higher-level control unit. A tamper-proof protocol, in this context, is defined as one that cannot be easily altered afterward. For example, the tamper-proof protocol can be ensured through appropriate encryption, a digital signature, and / or storage in a blockchain. Storing the protocol on the handheld device and / or the higher-level control unit can serve as temporary storage before the tamper-proof protocol is saved elsewhere. This automatically documents the commissioning process for later traceability. The tamper-proof protocol can also be used to obtain approval for the automation system.This method also supports the commissioning of the automation system. Furthermore, a report on changes to the automation system or its field devices can be automatically generated based on several tamper-proof protocols.

[0017] In a further embodiment of the claimed method, a designation of the logical measuring point, which is determined in the third step, can be provided to a digital twin of the automation system in conjunction with a physical address of the field device. This allows the digital twin of the automation system to be configured automatically during its commissioning. The digital twin can be configured to receive a measurement signal, a measured value, and / or a return value from the field device and compare it with a simulated measurement signal, a simulated measured value, and / or a simulated return value. With such a digital twin, the automation system can be easily monitored during operation.For example, defective field devices can be detected by checking the plausibility of the physically present measurement signals, measured values, and / or return values ​​by comparing them with the digital twin. The claimed method exhibits a high degree of automation overall, thus supporting the creation of a realistic digital twin of the automation system. This also accelerates the commissioning of the automation system. Based on the digital twin thus created, the automation system can be tested, at least in sections, via simulation.

[0018] Furthermore, the claimed method can include a fifth step in which information about the logical measuring point determined in the fourth step, which corresponds to the target measuring point, is stored, at least temporarily. A digital twin of the automation system is then automatically developed based on the information stored, at least temporarily, in the fifth step. In doing so, at least the associated communicative fieldbus connection between the field device and the higher-level control unit is replicated in the digital twin. In particular, a virtual representation of the field device can also be added to the digital twin in such a way that its operational behavior in conjunction with the higher-level control unit or its virtual representation can be reproduced.

[0019] The underlying problem is also solved by a computer program product according to the invention. The computer program product is stored on non-volatile memory, for example, a hard drive, flash memory, or optical memory. The computer program product comprises program code with instructions that, when executed, cause a computer to perform a method for commissioning a field device in an automation system. According to the invention, the method that can be executed with the computer program product is configured according to one of the embodiments described above. The features of the underlying method are thus readily transferable to the claimed computer program product. The computer program product can be configured to perform the computer-implemented method steps, in particular the second, third, and fourth steps.The computer program product can be monolithic, meaning it can be executed on a single hardware platform. Alternatively, the computer program product can be modular, meaning it comprises multiple subprograms that can be executed on separate hardware platforms and interact with each other. In particular, the computer program product can be designed to be at least partially executable on the handheld device.

[0020] The problem described above is also solved by a handheld device according to the invention. The handheld device is configured to communicate with a field device of an automation system and with a higher-level control unit of the automation system. The handheld device includes a memory and a processor configured to store and execute a computer program. According to the invention, the computer program is configured according to one of the embodiments described above. Consequently, the features of the computer program and the underlying method are equally transferable to the handheld device. The claimed handheld device can be configured as a smartphone, tablet, notebook, augmented reality system, or augmented reality system.

[0021] Furthermore, the problem outlined at the outset is solved by a field device according to the invention. The field device comprises at least one sensor configured to detect at least one physical quantity. Accordingly, the sensor can be configured, for example, as a temperature sensor, pressure sensor, flow meter, level meter, scale, anemometer, pH meter, image acquisition system, microphone, vibration sensor, magnetic field sensor, photocell, gas analyzer, or chromatograph. The field device further comprises an evaluation unit that is coupled directly or indirectly to the sensor. The evaluation unit is configured to convert measurement signals from the sensor into measured values ​​and / or return values. For this purpose, the evaluation unit can be configured, for example, as an analog-to-digital converter. The evaluation unit can be integrated into the sensor.The field device further comprises a communication unit that is directly or indirectly coupled to the evaluation unit. The communication unit is configured to establish a communicative fieldbus connection to a higher-level control unit of an automation system. The communication unit can be configured to transmit measured values ​​and / or return values ​​determined by the evaluation unit to the higher-level control unit. Alternatively or additionally, the communication unit can also be configured to transmit measurement signals to the higher-level control unit. According to the invention, the field device is configured to be commissioned using one of the methods described above. In particular, the field device can be equipped with an embodiment of the computer program product described above.The technical features of the above-described method and computer program product are therefore readily transferable to the claimed field device.

[0022] Furthermore, the problem described above is solved by an automation system according to the invention. The automation system comprises a higher-level control unit configured to control a production process running on the automation system. For this purpose, the higher-level control unit is connected to a plurality of field devices. The automation system also includes a handheld device capable of communication with at least one of the field devices. According to the invention, at least one of the field devices and / or the handheld device is configured according to one of the embodiments described above. The claimed automation system is therefore quick, reliable, and cost-effective to set up. Likewise, field devices can be replaced quickly and reliably. Similarly, the claimed automation system can be easily expanded in a manner analogous to its commissioning.The automation system can be configured, for example, as a chemical production plant, particularly for pharmaceuticals or food products; as a petrochemical production plant, such as a refinery; as a power plant; as a production line; as a supply network, such as a water, wastewater, gas, or electricity network; or as a transportation system, such as a baggage or parcel handling system. Alternatively, the automation system can be configured as a cement or glass production plant, a mining facility, or a building automation system. Furthermore, the automation system can be configured as a control system for a ship or an offshore drilling platform. The technical features of the underlying method, the corresponding computer program, the associated handheld device, and the associated field devices are therefore readily transferable to the claimed automation system.

[0023] The underlying problem is solved by a simulation method according to the invention, which is designed to simulate the operating behavior of an automation system. The operating behavior to be simulated can be behavior during commissioning, retrofitting, expansion, or modification of the automation system. The simulation method comprises a first step in which a plurality of data points are provided that at least partially replicate the functionality of the automation system to be simulated, for example, an associated field device, a higher-level control unit, and / or an associated handheld device. The plurality of data points can represent a digital image of the automation system to be simulated, in which the structure of the automation system is also at least partially replicated.The majority of data points together form a virtual representation of the automation system to be simulated.

[0024] Furthermore, the simulation process includes a second step in which at least one operating parameter is specified, characterizing the operating behavior to be simulated. This operating parameter can, for example, represent a physical quantity that is to be detected by the field device, i.e., its virtual representation. Alternatively or additionally, the operating parameter can also be a signal, i.e., a virtual representation of a signal, transmitted from the handheld device to the field device or from the field device to the higher-level control unit, i.e., their respective virtual representations. The simulation process also includes a third step in which at least one performance parameter is determined. The performance parameter here refers to any quantity that results from the simulated operating behavior.For example, the performance parameter can be a designation of a logical measuring point in the higher-level control unit, i.e., in its corresponding virtual representations, as captured by the handheld device. The determination of at least one performance parameter is carried out in the third step using a simulation program. This simulation program can be designed as a so-called digital twin of the automation system. The digital twin can be designed as a digital twin according to US 2017 / 0286572 A1. The disclosure content of US 2017 / 0286572 A1 is incorporated into the present application by reference. Furthermore, the simulation method includes a fourth step in which the at least one determined performance parameter is output to a user and / or a data interface. The data interface can be configured to transmit at least the performance parameter to other simulation-oriented computer programs.The data interface can be designed as an Application Programming Interface, or API for short.

[0025] According to the invention, the automation system, whose operating behavior is simulated using the simulation method, is designed according to one of the embodiments outlined above. The technical features of the automation system are therefore transferable to the claimed simulation method. The underlying method for commissioning the field device allows for the simple simulation of the signal-related behavior of the automation system. In particular, a complex simulation of physical processes in the environment can be avoided or at least greatly simplified. The simulation method can be performed based on existing digital twins of the corresponding components, i.e., the higher-level control unit, the field device, and / or the handheld device.The simulation software can also be coupled with the physical automation system, allowing performance parameters determined by the simulation software to be checked for plausibility against the corresponding physical parameters. Accordingly, the simulation software can be used to verify the plausibility of commissioning, retrofitting, expanding, or modifying the underlying automation system. Furthermore, if plausibility is confirmed, the simulation software can be adapted in a simplified form.

[0026] The problem described at the outset is solved by a simulation program product according to the invention. The simulation program product is stored on non-volatile memory, for example, a hard drive, flash memory, or optical memory. The simulation program product comprises program code with instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform a simulation method according to one of the embodiments described above. The features of the simulation method are analogously transferable to the claimed simulation program product.

[0027] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to individual embodiments shown in the figures. The figures are to be read as complementary to one another, such that identical reference numerals in different figures have the same technical meaning. The features of the individual embodiments can also be combined with one another. Furthermore, the features of the embodiments shown in the figures can be combined with the features outlined above. Specifically, the figures show: Fig. 1 a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the claimed automation system, on which a first embodiment of the claimed method is carried out; Fig. 2 a diagram showing embodiments of the simulation value; Fig. 3 diagrams with further embodiments of the simulation value; Fig. 4 a flowchart of a second embodiment of the claimed method; Fig. 5 a flowchart of an embodiment of the claimed simulation method.

[0028] In Fig. Figure 1 schematically depicts a setup of an embodiment of the claimed automation system 50, on which a first embodiment of the claimed method 100 for commissioning a field device 10 is carried out. The automation system 50 comprises a plurality of field devices 10, which are connected to a higher-level control unit 30. The field devices 10 each have a sensor 12 with which a physical quantity 13 can be detected. In the embodiment according to Fig. 1. The field devices 10 shown below are already connected to the higher-level control unit 30 as intended. The in Fig. As shown above, field device 10 is to be put into operation via procedure 100. The sensors 12 are configured to provide measurement signals 15, which are each transmitted to an evaluation unit 14. The evaluation units 14 are each configured to evaluate the measurement signals 15 and convert them into measured values ​​17. The measured values ​​17, in turn, are transmitted to a communication unit 18 during operation of the field device 10. The communication units 18 are configured to establish communicative fieldbus connections 19 to the higher-level control unit 30, via which the measured values ​​17 can be transmitted. The higher-level control unit 30 has a plurality of physical addresses 32, which essentially correspond to fieldbus connections. The physical addresses 32 are linked to logical measuring points 36 via assignments 33. The assignments result, for example, from a control program 35 or...Configuration data 37 of the automation system 30. The configuration data 37 can be provided via an engineering system 55, which allows the automation system 30 to be configured. The configuration data 37 can include position data and / or target position data for field devices 10. The assignments 33 are not immediately apparent from the outside. The logical measuring points 36 essentially define a section in a production process (not shown in detail) that is to be carried out with the automation system. The commissioning procedure 100 is described in . Fig. 1 was carried out on the field device 10 shown above.

[0029] The procedure 100 comprises a first step 110 in which the field devices 10 and the higher-level control unit 30 are provided. A communicative fieldbus connection 19 is established between the field device 10, which is to be put into operation, and the higher-level control unit 30. At this stage, it is not apparent to a user whether the field device 10 is connected to the intended logical measuring point 36. The intended measuring point 26 is in Fig. 1 is symbolized by hatching. Furthermore, a second step 120 belongs to the process 100, in which a first connection 21 is established between a handheld device 20 and the field device 10. The first connection 21 is a radio connection 22, for example, a Bluetooth, ZigBee, or Wireless HART connection. Likewise, in the second step 120, a second connection 22 is established to the higher-level control unit 30. The second connection 22 is, for example, a WLAN or cellular connection. The first and second connections 21, 22 are independent of the communicative fieldbus connection 19 between the field device 10 and the higher-level control unit 30.

[0030] In a third step 130 of the procedure 100, a simulation value 25 is specified by the handheld device 20 and transmitted to the field device 10 via the first connection 21. The simulation value 25 is output in such a way that a measured value 17, which is transmitted from the evaluation unit 14 to the communication unit 18, is blocked out by the simulation value 25. The sensor 12 and the evaluation unit 14 can therefore operate as intended. Due to the blocked measured value 17, the communication unit 18 receives the simulation value 25 instead of the measured value 17. The simulation value 25 is configured to be automatically distinguished from measured values ​​17. The simulation value 25 is transmitted via the communicative fieldbus connection 19 to a physical address 32 of the higher-level control unit 30. Via the assignment 33 of the physical address 32, the simulation value 25 reaches a logical measuring point 36. According to Fig. In step 1, the simulation value 25 reaches the designated logical measuring point 36. The higher-level control unit 30 is configured to automatically identify the simulation value 25 and the logical measuring point 36 where the simulation value 25 is output. The simulation value 25, once recognized as such, can be ignored by a control program 35 of the higher-level control unit 30, for example, if the production process is already at least partially underway. Furthermore, in the third step 130, a designation 34 of the logical measuring point 36 where the simulation value 25 is output is recorded. The designation 34 of the corresponding logical measuring point 36 can be obtained, for example, by querying the setup data 37 of the automation system 50. The designation 34 of the identified logical measuring point 36 is transmitted to the handheld device 20 via the second connection 22 in the third step 130.

[0031] The designation 34 is further processed in the fourth step 140 of procedure 100. Based on the designation 34, a comparison is made in the fourth step 140 to determine whether the logical measuring point 36, at which the simulation value 25 is output, corresponds to a target measuring point 38. The target measuring point 34 can, for example, be specified by the handheld device 20. For example, the handheld device 20, i.e., a computer program product 40 running on it, can specify which function the field device 10 to be commissioned is to perform within the automation system 50. Fig. 1. The determined logical measuring point 36 corresponds to the target measuring point 34. Furthermore, in the embodiment according to Fig. 1. A location data for the field device 10 is recorded. For this purpose, a location data for the handheld device 20 is recorded, which is configured to determine its position using a satellite positioning system 27. The handheld device 20 is used in the vicinity of the field device 10 to be commissioned, so that the position of the handheld device 20 essentially corresponds to the position of the field device 10. The location data from the field device 10 is compared with a target location data, which may, for example, be stored in the setup data 37 of the automation system 50. This makes it possible to verify whether the field device 10 to be commissioned is located at the intended installation location with sufficient accuracy. Fig. 1 corresponds to the location of field device 10 and its target location. This is in Fig. The field device 10 shown above is thus put into operation via the communicative fieldbus connection 19 established in the first step. If the determined logical measuring point 36 deviates from the target measuring point 34 and / or the location of the field device 10 deviates from its target location, a warning 29 is issued to the user of the handheld device 20. For the execution of procedure 100, the handheld device 20 is equipped with a correspondingly configured computer program 40. Using procedure 100 according to Fig. 1. The user of the handheld device 20 can reliably check on their own whether the corresponding field device 10 is properly coupled to the higher-level control unit 30. Alternatively or additionally, the handheld device 20 can be configured to change an assignment 33 in the higher-level control unit 30 in order to establish a proper state. Overall, this simplifies and accelerates the commissioning of field devices 10 in the automation system 50. Furthermore, the operational behavior of the automation system 50, particularly in a process 100 as described in Fig. Figure 1 shows that this can be reproduced using a simulation program product 60. The simulation program product 60 is designed as a digital twin of the automation system 50.

[0032] Fig. Figure 2 shows three different embodiments of the simulation value 25, which are obtained when carrying out the procedure 100, as for example in Fig. 1 shown, can be used individually or in combination. In detail, it shows Fig. 2 a diagram with a horizontal order axis 46 and a vertical quantity axis 44. The vertical quantity axis 44 symbolizes a value of the simulation value 25. A first simulation value 25.1 has an increased value that lies above two physical limits 41. The physical limits 41 define the range of values ​​that a measurement signal 15 or a measured value 17, resulting from a measured physical quantity 13, can have. The in Fig. The physical limit shown above can, for example, be the speed of light if the associated sensor 12 is a velocity sensor. The first simulation value 25.1, as a variable, therefore has a defined range of values ​​that is wider than the range of values ​​that the underlying physical quantity 13 can assume. Such a simulation value 25.1 can be easily identified automatically by the higher-level control unit 30, for example, by an artificial intelligence. Correspondingly, a second simulation value 25.2 lies below a limit shown in Fig. 2. The physical limit shown below (41) can, for example, correspond to a temperature or temperature measurement below zero Kelvin. Such a simulation value (25.2) can also be easily and automatically detected by the higher-level control unit (30), for example, by means of artificial intelligence. Furthermore, it shows Fig. 3. A third simulation value 25.3, the value of which lies within the physical limits 41. However, the third simulation value 25.3 exceeds parameter limits 43, which may be stored in the associated field device 10 and / or the handheld device 20. The parameter limits 43 define a value range within which the corresponding field device 10 is to be used as intended. The third simulation value 25.3 may, for example, be a temperature value that is above a maximum design temperature of the field device 10. The parameter limits 43 may, for example, be specified by or derived from a type designation of the corresponding field device 10. Alternatively or additionally, the parameter limits 43 may be given by a parameter set of the field device 10. A designation stored in or on the field device may contain corresponding information.The simulation value 25 can therefore be specified in different ways, which allows a clear distinction from measured values ​​17 that are based on real measured physical quantities 13.

[0033] Further embodiments of the simulation value 25 are in Fig. 3 is schematically represented in three diagrams. Each diagram has a horizontal time axis 42 and a vertical quantity axis 44. A value or intensity of the simulation value 25 is shown on the quantity axis 44. In the upper diagram in Fig. In sequence 26, the simulation value 25 increases in stages. Essentially, the simulation value 24 is increased in equal steps 48 in sequences 26, in a stair-step manner. Such a sequence 26 does not typically occur as a measured value 17 or as a measurement signal 15 at field devices 10 during normal operation. Accordingly, sequences 26, as shown in the diagram above, can be easily and automatically detected by the higher-level control unit 30, for example, by means of artificial intelligence. Among other things, such a sequence 26 can be detected by means of a neural network, which is particularly suitable for identifying deviating data patterns.

[0034] The middle diagram shows successive sequences 26 of simulation values ​​25, in which the simulation value 25 alternates between a maximum and a minimum. Furthermore, the duration of an inactivity phase 49 can be adjusted in the individual simulation values ​​25. Essentially abrupt, i.e., seamless, jumps between a maximum and a minimum do not typically occur as measurement signals 15 or measured values ​​17 in normal operation for a large number of field devices 10. The sequences 26 can easily be adjusted with respect to the durations of the inactivity phases 49 and the simulation values ​​25 so that the sequences 26 are so high-frequency that they cannot realistically represent a real process at the corresponding field device 10. Even in this way, a pattern can be generated with the sequences 26 that stands out from real measurement signals 15 or real measured values ​​17 and can be easily identified automatically.

[0035] Furthermore, the lower diagram shows another embodiment of the simulation values ​​25, which can be used in the method 100. The simulation values ​​25 form a sequence 26. The simulation values ​​25 are composed of value units 28, where the number of value units 28 corresponds to the value of the respective simulation value 25. The sequence 26 essentially represents a multi-digit number, with the simulation values ​​25 forming the individual digits of the multi-digit number. The sequence 26 is designed such that it represents a palindrome 24. Without loss of generality, the palindrome 24 can have any number of simulation values ​​25. The more digits the palindrome 24 has, the more clearly it differs from measurement signals 15 or measured values ​​17 from actual operation of the field devices 10.Furthermore, a sequence of sequences 26 of simulation values ​​25 can be specified in the third step 130 of the method 100, each of which is formed as a palindrome 24. This further increases the machine recognizability of the simulation values ​​25 at the logical measuring points 36. Overall, the simulation values ​​25 in the claimed method 100 can be easily adapted so that they are reliably recognizable automatically. The claimed method 100 allows for a single-person loop check by a user of the handheld device 20 or even an automatic loop check in a wide range of applications.

[0036] A second embodiment of the claimed method 100 is described in Fig. The process is illustrated in a flowchart (Figure 4). The process 100 comprises a first step 110, in which a field device 10 is provided for installation and commissioning in an automation system 50. The field device 10 is connected to a higher-level control unit 30 of the automation system 50, establishing a communicative fieldbus connection 19 between them. A subsequent second step 120 of the process 100 involves providing a handheld device 20. A first connection 21, configured as a radio link, is established between the handheld device 20 and the field device 10. Furthermore, a second connection 22 is established between the handheld device 20 and the higher-level control unit 30. This second connection 22 is also configured as a radio link. The first and second connections 21 and 22 are independent of the communicative fieldbus connection 19 between the field device 10 and the higher-level control unit 30.The second step 120 is followed by a third step 130, in which the handheld device 20 specifies at least one simulation value 25 for the field device 10. The simulation value 25 is transmitted by the field device 10 to the higher-level control unit 30 via the communicative fieldbus connection 19. In the higher-level control unit 30, the at least one simulation value 25 reaches a logical measuring point 36, which can be defined by a function within a production process that is carried out or is to be carried out with the automation system. The logical measuring point 36, at which the at least one simulation value 25 is output, is identified in the third step 130. A designation 34 of the logical measuring point 36 is recorded and transmitted to the handheld device 20 via the second connection 22.

[0037] This is followed by a first branch 135 of the procedure 100, in which the designation 34 of the detected logical measuring point 36 is compared with a target measuring point 38. If the designation 34 of the detected logical measuring point 36 differs from the target measuring point 38, a warning 29 is issued and the procedure 190 reaches a final state 190. If the designation 34 of the detected logical measuring point 36 matches the target measuring point 38, the procedure 100 reaches a second branch 145. At the second branch 145, a location of the handheld device 20 is determined via a satellite positioning system 27, which essentially corresponds to a location of the field device 10. The determined location is compared with a target location. If the determined location deviates sufficiently from the target location, a warning 29 is issued. In this case, procedure 100 also reaches a final state.If the determined location essentially corresponds to the target location, the field device 10 is operated in the automation system 50 via the communicative fieldbus connection 19 established in the first step 110. The procedure 100, as in . Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the process is carried out via a computer program product 40, which is at least partially executed on the handheld device 20. The handheld device 20 is configured to specify the simulation value 25 for the field device 10 via the first connection 21 and to retrieve the designation 34 of the logical measuring point 36, at which the specified simulation value 25 is output, via the second connection 22.

[0038] One embodiment of the claimed simulation method 200 is described in Fig.5 is shown in a flowchart. The simulation method 200 is designed to replicate the operating behavior of an automation system 50. The simulation method 200 comprises a first step 210 in which a plurality of data points are provided, by which at least a functionality of a field device 10 and / or a higher-level control unit 30 of the automation system 50 can be replicated. The plurality of data points can, among other things, represent the structure of the field device 10, a signal-related circuit, and / or a circuit of the higher-level control unit 30 specified by a control program 35. Accordingly, the plurality of data points can be at least a partial digital representation of the automation system 50. A second step 220 of the simulation method 200 follows, in which at least one operating parameter is specified that characterizes the operating behavior to be simulated.The operating parameter can, for example, be a simulation value 25 that is assigned to the field device 10, i.e., its virtual representation. Furthermore, a third step 230 is part of the simulation procedure 200, in which at least one performance parameter is determined. The performance parameter can be any physical or signal-related quantity that results from a simulated operation based on the majority of data points in combination with the at least one operating parameter. The at least one performance parameter can, for example, be a simulated signal output at a logical measuring point 36 in the simulated higher-level control unit 30 and / or a designation 34 of the logical measuring point 36. Alternatively or additionally, the performance parameter can also be the result of a comparison between the determined simulated logical measuring point 36 or its designation 34 with a simulated target measuring point 38.Furthermore, the simulation method 200 comprises a fourth step 240, in which at least one performance parameter determined in the third step 230 is output to a user and / or a data interface. The simulation method 200, in particular its third step 230, is carried out using a simulation program product 60, which is configured as a digital twin of the automation system 50. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] 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 patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2014 219 856 A1

[0002] DE 10 2007 041 240 A1

[0003] US 2017 / 0286572 A1

[0024]

Claims

[1] Method (100) for commissioning a field device (10) in an automation system (50) having a higher-level control unit (30), comprising the steps: a) Establishing a communicative fieldbus connection (19) between the field device (10) and the higher-level control unit (30); b) Establishing a first connection (21) between a handheld device (20) and the field device (10) and establishing a second connection (22) between the handheld device (20) and the higher-level control unit (30); c) Specifying a simulation value (25) to be output to the field device (10) via the handheld device (20), determining a logical measuring point (36) in the higher-level control unit (30) at which the simulation value (25) is output, and outputting a designation (34) of the determined logical measuring point (36) to the handheld device (20); d) Comparing the logical measuring point (36) determined in step with a specified target measuring point (38) and operating the field device (10) via the communicative fieldbus connection (19) established in step a) if the determined logical measuring point (36) matches the target measuring point (38). [2] Method (100) according to claim 1, characterized by , that in step b) at least one designation of the field device (10) stored in or on the field device (10) is recorded and transmitted to the higher-level control unit (30). [3] Method (100) according to claim 2, characterized by , that the at least one designation of the field device (10) stored in or on the field device (10) is checked for plausibility against the setup data (37) of the automation system (30) by means of an artificial intelligence. [4] Method (100) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by, that the designation stored in the field device (10) includes a type specification, a parameter set and / or a predefinable filled label. [5] Method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that in step c) the simulation value (25) of an evaluation unit (14) of the field device (10) is specified, wherein the simulation value (25) blocks out a measured value (17) or a measurement signal (15) of the field device (10). [6] Method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by , that the simulation value (25) is a current value, in particular a 4...20mA signal. [7] Method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by , that in step c) a predefinable sequence (26) of simulation values ​​(25) to be output is specified to the field device (10) and the logical measuring point (362) is determined at which the sequence (26) of simulation values ​​(25) is output. [8] Method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by , that in step c) a location of the field device (10) is recorded and compared with a target location of the field device (10). [9] Method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by , that at least via step d) a tamper-proof protocol is automatically created and stored on the handheld device (20) and / or the higher-level control unit (30). [10] Method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by , that a designation (34) of the logical measuring point (36) in conjunction with a physical address (32) of the field device (10) is provided to a digital twin of the automation system (50). [11] Computer program product (40), comprising program code with instructions which, when executed, cause a computer to perform a method (100) for commissioning a field device (10), characterized bythat the method (100) is designed according to one of claims 1 to 10. [12] Handheld device (20) for communication with a field device (10) of an automation system (50) and a higher-level control unit (30) of the automation system (50), which has a memory and a processor with which a computer program product (40) can be executed, characterized by , that the computer program product (40) is designed according to claim 11. [13] Field device (10) comprising a sensor (12) connected to an evaluation unit (14) and a communication unit (18) designed to establish a communicative fieldbus connection (19) with a higher-level control unit (30) of an automation system (50), characterized by , that the field device (10) is designed to be put into operation by means of a method (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10. [14] Automation system (50) comprising a higher-level control unit (30) connected to a plurality of field devices (10) and a handheld device (20) capable of communicating with at least one of the field devices (10), characterized by , that the handheld device (20) is configured according to claim 12 and / or at least one of the field devices (10) is configured according to claim 13.

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