METHOD FOR COMPUTER-BASED TESTING OF AN INSTALLATION ELEMENT FOR AN INSTALLATION ENVIRONMENT

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of planning and assembly of machines such as automation systems and, in particular, to a computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized electrical components of a machine. background

[0002] The complexity and diversity of automation systems that must be developed, planned, installed, maintained, and repaired is becoming increasingly greater. Simple and efficient support for installers and planners in electrical installation projects is becoming increasingly important throughout all phases of such a system's life cycle, including development / planning, production, commissioning, operation, and maintenance.

[0003] During installation, it may happen that the properties of a component used do not meet the environmental requirements. For example, the on-site requirements of a system may differ from those assumed during planning. In this case, it depends on the experience and expertise of an installer whether such deviations are correctly assessed and how the suitability of the component to be installed for further use is assessed. This type of testing therefore carries a high probability of errors in the evaluation of product and environmental properties, which can later lead to system failures.

[0004] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a computer-aided method and system to enable installation of components and electrical components and to at least partially eliminate the disadvantages described above.

[0005] The publications US 2022 / 270149 A1, US 2021 / 133377 A1 and US 2020 / 143606 A1 disclose generic methods. Summary of the invention

[0006] The above object is achieved by a method, a computer program, and a data processing device according to the independent claims. Further features and details of the invention emerge from the respective subclaims, the description, and the drawings.

[0007] The subject matter of the invention is in particular a method for a computer-assisted testing of an installation element, in particular a component and / or cable and / or connector, for an installation environment, preferably in an installation of spatially decentralized electrical components of a machine, in particular a system.

[0008] The machine can be designed as at least one of the following machines: An automation system, a production system, a logistics system, a production line, a machining center, an industrial robot, a manufacturing system, an aggregate, an electrical device.

[0009] In particular, the machine can be designed as a modular machine or as a mobile or movable machine, in which individual parts of the machine are installed modularly according to an installation specification. This installation is carried out at least partially manually by a user, such as a worker.

[0010] The electrical components can be connection modules, which enable a decentralized and modular connection of installation elements. Decentralized can refer to the fact that the connection modules at least partially replace a central control cabinet, in that the connection modules only provide some of the connections for the machine, but enable these connections to be made in a decentralized manner in the field. In a central topology, e.g. a centralized control cabinet concept, a point-to-point connection is particularly important, i.e. the start point, the connection and the end point are clearly defined. In contrast, in decentralized applications it is possible, and can often even be necessary, to arrange or connect several components between the start point and the end point. In this case we can speak of a module-module or module-hub-point connection, for example. In principle, a machine can have, for example,The following components must be provided: devices such as actuators and / or sensors, connection modules, installation elements, e.g. for cabling.

[0011] The method according to the invention comprises the following steps, which are preferably carried out successively or in any order, whereby the steps can also be carried out automatically and / or repeatedly: Checking the suitability of the installation element for installation in the installation environment, preferably based on a compatibility assessment of at least one property of the installation element in relation to at least one property of the installation environment, in particular a temperature and / or humidity and / or electrical voltage and / or acceleration; generating at least one piece of installation information based on a result of the check to assist a user during installation; and initiating an output of the generated at least one piece of installation information for the user.

[0012] The process thus enables simpler, faster, and error-free installation and can significantly support users during machine installation and improve the quality of the process. Furthermore, it can significantly reduce the time-consuming inspections required by qualified specialist personnel. Furthermore, the process has the advantage of ensuring more efficient and effective use of available installation elements such as cables and / or components during installation. Furthermore, it advantageously enables a significant improvement in the service life of the individual installation elements. Furthermore, the process significantly simplifies the more flexible use of labor, as no high level of technical qualification is required to carry out the installation.

[0013] In this way, a support system for installation, in particular for cabling, can be provided during installation with regard to the suitability of an installation element for the intended use, in which a data processing device can execute the method steps automatically. The data processing device, in particular a data processing device according to the invention, can advantageously communicate with individual components and thus enable the output of the installation information. For this purpose, the data processing device can have at least one interface for communication.

[0014] A user can be, for example, an installer and / or plant mechanic and / or electrician and / or worker and / or planner and / or mechanical designer or developer and / or electrical designer or developer and / or PLC programmer and / or commissioning engineer and / or maintenance engineer and / or machine operator. It is possible for the user to use the method according to the invention by providing the method to the user via a computer. For this purpose, a computer program can be executed at least partially by the computer and / or another computer in order to carry out the method steps according to the invention.

[0015] Several installation elements can be provided for the installation of the machine. Each of these installation elements can be assigned an identifier by which the installation elements can be uniquely identified. The identifier can accordingly be information that can be processed digitally, for example. The respective installation element can have the identifier by providing and / or attaching a physical identification means to the installation element. The installation elements can be, for example, cables or components that are a functional part of the machine. The identifier advantageously comprises a unique and, in particular, one-to-one identifier. This makes it possible to uniquely identify the installation element in connection with the machine and / or other machines and / or the installation of the machine using the identifier.One or more pieces of information about the installation element can be assigned to the identifier. The at least one piece of information can comprise at least one of the following pieces of information: at least one piece of status information, the output installation information, an identifier of the identified component, and at least one of the documentation specifications described in more detail below, such as component type, machine type, system type, user, connection point designation, time stamp, date and time, installation duration, address in a bus system, equipment identification, cable length, port assignment, properties of the open cable, cable length, temperature, humidity, current project status during assembly, plan deviation, and reason. Digital storage of the at least one piece of information assigned to the identifier thus makes it possible to create a digital twin of the installation element.

[0016] Preferably, the installation element can comprise a cable and / or a component, wherein the cable can have at least or exactly one connector, and can preferably be pre-assembled on one side, i.e., having a female or male connector on one side and an open end on the other. Alternatively, the cable can also be pre-assembled on both sides, i.e., having a female or male connector on each side.

[0017] It may further be possible for the at least one installation information to comprise installation instructions to assist the user in the installation, wherein the initiation of the output preferably comprises at least one of the following steps: Initiating an output of the installation instruction as an indication of a connection point of an electrical component for a connection of the installation element and / or an indication of the suitability of the installation element, preferably as an indication to the user that the installation element is suitable for use in the installation environment; Initiating a visual output of the installation instruction, preferably through a graphical user interface and / or by means of augmented reality and / or through a signal generator of the electrical component; Initiating an acoustic output, in particular a voice output, of the installation instruction.

[0018] This allows the user to be directly informed through the installation instructions as to whether the installation element is suitable for use in the installation environment and how the installation should be performed. The user interface can be a graphical user interface displayed on a screen, preferably a computer. The computer can be, for example, a portable computer such as a laptop or tablet.

[0019] Augmented reality display can be achieved, for example, by a user wearing VR (virtual reality) glasses to display additional information, and / or by recording the user's surroundings with a camera and processing the camera image to incorporate additional information into the camera image. The additional information includes, for example, highlighting the connection point if the physical connection point of the component is visible in the camera image.

[0020] Furthermore, an acoustic output can also be provided, which includes, for example, controlling a loudspeaker. The acoustic output can, for example, be a voice output that speaks the connection designation of the connection point.

[0021] Furthermore, it can be provided within the scope of the invention that when initiating the output, at least one of the following steps is carried out if, based on the result of the test, the suitability of the installation element for installation in the installation environment is determined to be insufficient: Initiating the output of a warning and / or an error message, preferably the warning and / or error message that the installation element is not suitable for use in the installation environment and a functionality of the installation element is significantly impaired; initiating a correction of the connection in the installation specification; initiating the output of an installation instruction and / or a recommendation for action, preferably with an indication of another installation element with a higher suitability than the tested installation element for installation in the installation environment.

[0022] This has the advantage of providing immediate and faster information to the user during installation if the testing reveals that the installation element is unsuitable for the installation environment. Furthermore, it allows the user to correct their actions more quickly or be better able to identify possible alternatives.

[0023] It may also be possible for the method to include the following further step: Automatic documentation of the suitability of the installation element depending on the test result.

[0024] This has the advantage of ensuring easier verification for later inspection. Furthermore, it significantly reduces the time required and the risk of errors in user input, as manual documentation is no longer required.

[0025] Optionally, the procedure may include the following further step: Providing installation data of the installation element, in particular a cable and / or connector, wherein the installation data comprise planning data for properties of the installation element.

[0026] Furthermore, the procedure may include the following further step: Providing installation data of the installation environment, wherein the installation data includes planning data for properties of the installation environment.

[0027] This has the advantage that the method enables a simpler and error-free mapping of properties of an installation element to be installed and / or properties of an actual installation environment to the corresponding planning data. This can thus significantly support a user during installation, simplifying and accelerating the process. Furthermore, the provided planning data allows potential problems to be identified more quickly, thus preventing subsequent disruptions in the operation of a machine.

[0028] A further advantage within the scope of the invention can be achieved if the at least one property of the installation element comprises at least one of the following: a permissible temperature range for which the installation element is suitable; a humidity range for which the installation element is suitable; a nominal electrical voltage for which the installation element is suitable; a minimum bending radius for which the installation element is suitable; a minimum and / or maximum mechanical load for which the installation element is suitable; a permissible acceleration for which the installation element (10) is suitable; a minimum and / or maximum number of wires within the connector and / or cable; a coding of the connector as a signal line A-, B-, C-, D-, or X-coded and / or as a power line A-, K-, L- and / or as a data line A-, B-, D-, X-, and Y-coded and / or with LED and / or coding as a shielded or unshielded connector and / or a hybrid line, in particular as a combination of the aforementioned lines;a specific cable outlet, preferably of a connector for a range of 0° to 90°, preferably 45° to 60°, for which the installation element is suitable; a specific connection on the respective sides for which an installation element is suitable, in particular as an M8, M12, M23, RJ45, 7 / 8 (seven-eighth), MQ15, MSUD (valve connector), Deutsch plug or RJ45PP connection; a specific connector type for which the installation element is suitable, in particular a connector type of the female-female, female-male, male-female or male-male type, H-, T- and Y-pieces and distributors; a specific application for which the installation element is suitable, in particular as an AS-Interface, as an Ethernet, as a motor, as a fieldbus application or as a sensor / actuator cable; an appropriate design of the installation element depending on the environment for which the installation element is suitable;a safety and / or redundancy requirement for which the installation element is suitable.

[0029] According to a further possibility, it can be provided that the at least one property of the installation environment comprises at least one of the following: a temperature range which is intended as air temperature in the installation environment; a humidity which is intended in the installation environment; a wetness which is intended in the installation environment; an electrical voltage which is intended as operating voltage for the installation element; a chemical resistance which is intended in the installation environment; an air pressure which is intended in the installation environment; a UV load which is intended in the installation environment; a bacterial load which is intended in the installation environment; a biological load (e.g. animal substances etc.) which is intended in the installation environment; a vibration which is intended in the installation environment; a noise load, i.e.Ambient noise expected in the installation environment; structure-borne noise expected in the installation environment; a corresponding design of the installation element depending on the application sector for which the installation element is suitable.

[0030] This allows for a more precise identification of any installation problem. Furthermore, it has the advantage of ensuring a more effective recommendation for a more suitable installation element or a more effective assessment of the suitability of the installation element despite a deviation from a measured property.

[0031] It is also conceivable that checking the suitability of the installation element for installation in the installation environment includes the following steps: Determining the at least one property of the installation element, preferably from a database and / or from a data store, wherein the at least one property defines a requirement for a parameter of the installation environment and / or specifies a technical parameter of the installation element; Determining the at least one property of the installation environment, preferably by a measurement and / or from a database and / or from a data store, wherein the at least one property defines a requirement for the technical parameter of the installation element and / or specifies the parameter of the installation environment; Carrying out the compatibility assessment by checking the at least one requirement in order to determine the suitability of the installation element for installation in the installation environment as sufficient if the requirement is met and as insufficient if the requirement is not met.

[0032] This allows for a more precise assessment of suitability during installation. Furthermore, it has the advantage of ensuring a more effective recommendation for a more suitable installation element or a more effective assessment of the suitability of the installation element despite a deviation from a measured property.

[0033] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the method comprises the following further step: Receiving an identifier of the installation element, preferably from a reader, preferably by a scanner, to check the suitability of the installation element for the installation environment; reading at least one property of the installation element from a database based on the received identifier.

[0034] This makes it possible to ensure simpler, faster and error-free assignment of installation elements and their properties when checking their suitability for the installation environment.

[0035] According to the invention, the method for testing suitability comprises the following further step: Verifying compliance with at least one reference and / or limit value for at least one property of the installation element, in particular temperature and / or humidity and / or electrical voltage.

[0036] This has the advantage of ensuring faster delivery of test results. Furthermore, it enables a more efficient and targeted review of suitability with regard to individual properties, ensuring a better and more concrete assessment and recommendations for action.

[0037] It is further conceivable that the method comprises the following steps if a deviation of the at least one property of the installation element from the at least one reference and / or limit value is detected: Simulating an effect of the deviation in order to determine, depending on the effect, the suitability of the installation element for installation in the installation environment; specifying another installation element that is more suitable for use in the installation environment and / or ensures functionality of the machine if the suitability is determined to be insufficient; and generating an output of the installation information depending on a result of the simulation, preferably outputting a list of suitable installation elements for the installation environment.

[0038] This allows for verification of deviations in the form of suitable installation elements. This optimization can be achieved by simulating and outputting the effects of deviations. Simulation advantageously makes it possible to determine whether the specified installation element is an alternative that is more suitable for the installation environment. Simulation can also determine whether the specified installation element is an alternative that meets all the required properties in the installation environment.

[0039] According to the invention, the method comprises the following steps if a deviation of the at least one property of the installation element from the at least one reference and / or limit value is detected: Simulating a negative impact of the deviation in order to specify a further installation element whose use neutralizes the negative impact; generating an output of the installation information depending on a result of the simulation, preferably outputting a list of suitable installation elements for the installation environment.

[0040] This allows for verification of deviations by introducing suitable additional installation elements. Simulating the negative impact makes it possible to determine whether the additional specified installation element can eliminate the negative impact of the deviation in an installation.

[0041] The invention also relates to a data processing device with means for implementing the method according to one of the preceding claims. Thus, the device according to the invention provides the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to a method according to the invention. The device can be part of at least one or exactly one of the at least one machine.

[0042] The invention also relates to a computer program, in particular a computer program product, comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to the invention. Thus, the computer program according to the invention provides the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to a method according to the invention.

[0043] A data processing device, for example the device according to the invention, which executes the computer program can be provided as the computer. The computer can have at least one processor for executing the computer program. A non-volatile data memory can also be provided, in which the computer program is stored and from which the computer program can be read by the processor for execution.

[0044] It is also conceivable for the computer to comprise at least one integrated circuit such as a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application-specific standard product (ASSP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like. The computer may further comprise at least one interface for data exchange, e.g., an Ethernet interface, an interface for a LAN (local area network), a WLAN (wireless local area network), a system-on-a-chip (SoC), or another wireless interface such as Bluetooth or near-field communication (NFC). Furthermore, the computer may be configured as one or more control units, i.e., as a system of control units. The computer may, for example, also be provided in a cloud and / or as a server in order to provide data processing for a local application via the interface.It is also possible that the computer is designed as a mobile device, such as a smartphone.

[0045] The invention may also provide a computer-readable storage medium comprising the computer program according to the invention. The storage medium is designed, for example, as a data storage device such as a hard disk and / or a non-volatile memory and / or a memory card. The storage medium can, for example, be integrated into the computer.

[0046] Furthermore, the method according to the invention can also be implemented as a computer-implemented method.

[0047] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which describes exemplary embodiments of the invention in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description may be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. Brief description of the drawings

[0048] For a better understanding of the disclosure, reference is made to the following drawings: Fig. 1 : A central connection for a machine using a control cabinet. Fig. 2 : A decentralized interconnection according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 3 A schematic representation of parts of a system according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 4 A schematic representation of details of a method according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 5A schematic representation of steps of a method according to embodiments of the invention. Description of the embodiments

[0049] Planning, installing, and setting up machines and electronic automation technology is a complex task. This applies to centralized control cabinet systems as well as to decentralized systems in which control modules are attached directly to the equipment. The corresponding processes are carried out by different people, such as system planners, electrical planners, installers, system programmers, etc. A special feature of decentralized systems is the distribution of modules at different locations within a machine compared to centralized control cabinet systems. Especially with larger machines, simultaneous installation—i.e., installation carried out simultaneously by multiple users at the same time—can be advantageous for time and logistical reasons. To ensure a smooth installation process, the work status should be digitally documented automatically, user-specifically, and in real time.Throughout the entire system life cycle, it is important for various reasons (such as maintenance planning, system diagnostics) to have complete documentation of all relevant information, including documentation regarding the suitability of the installed components and / or parts.

[0050] During installation, the actual situation on site may deviate from the planned design. This means that originally planned components no longer match the actual environmental conditions. In such cases, a process and system can provide support that automatically compares the product properties with the environmental characteristics during installation and checks for compatibility. In the event of a lack of compatibility, the user is supported by generated and displayed notes or alternative suggestions from the system.

[0051] In Fig. 1A central interconnection by means of a control cabinet 9 is shown schematically in order to compare this with a decentralized interconnection by means of spatially decentralized electrical components 4 of a machine 1 in Fig. 2 Instead of connecting all devices 5 such as sensors and actuators directly to the control cabinet 9 as in Fig. 1 shown, the decentralized interconnection in Fig. 2several components 4, in particular connection modules, can be used. These, like the control cabinet 9, enable the devices 5 to be coupled to a control device 8, such as a PLC. However, the connection modules 4 can be provided in a decentralized manner and distributed near the devices 5. The connection modules 4 thus only partially interconnect the devices 5, with the connection modules 4 together or, for example, one and / or more connection modules 4 via one and / or more hubs 6 each carrying out the entire interconnection. In order to enable the configuration and / or control of the connection modules 4 centrally, a master module 3 can be connected upstream of several of the individual connection modules 4. It is also possible for the interconnection to be further subdivided using at least one hub 6.

[0052] In Fig. 3Parts of a system 2 according to exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown, which system can be provided for computer-assisted testing of an installation element for an installation environment during the installation of spatially decentralized electrical components 4 of a machine 1. The system 2 can comprise a detection device 22, in particular a scanner 22 or a camera 22, for providing an identifier 11 of an installation element 10, preferably a cable 10 or a component 10. Furthermore, the system 2 can have at least one electrical component 4, preferably in the form of a connection module 4 for connection to the installation element 10 and other installation elements 10.A data processing device 30 may also be part of the system 2, wherein this data processing device 30 may comprise means for executing the steps of a method 100 according to embodiments of the invention. The identifier 11 may be encoded in a machine-readable code 12 assigned to the installation element 10, in particular arranged thereon, wherein the machine-readable code 12 is made machine-readable by means of the detection device 22. This allows a user to scan the code 12 using the detection device 22 and thus transmit the identifier 11 to the data processing device 30.Furthermore, the components 4 and at least one computer 30, 31 and / or a control device 8 can each be connected to one another via a bus system 21 for bidirectional communication. The bidirectional communication can be provided based on a communication protocol for a fieldbus system, in particular based on a ProfiNet, Ethernet / IP, or 802.3 standard, and / or the bidirectional communication can be provided via a cable via a bus system 21 or wirelessly via Bluetooth or WLAN, based on a standard according to IEEE 802.11, or based on a mobile radio telecommunications standard. To enable operation of the component 4, the component 4 can further be connected to a power supply 13.

[0053] Furthermore, a computer program 20 is shown, which comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer 30, cause the computer 30 to carry out the steps of the method 100 according to embodiments of the invention.

[0054] In Fig. 4 and 5 Process steps of the method 100 are visualized, in which a computer-aided test of an installation element, in particular a component and / or cable and / or connector, is carried out for an installation environment. According to the invention, according to a Fig. 5 The first method step 101 shown provides for checking the suitability of the installation element for installation in the installation environment.

[0055] This is checked based on a compatibility assessment of at least one property of the installation element in relation to at least one property of the installation environment, in particular a temperature and / or humidity and / or electrical voltage and / or acceleration. Subsequently, according to a second method step 102, at least one piece of installation information is generated based on a result of the check in the first method step to assist a user during installation. Then, according to a third method step 103, an output of the generated at least one piece of installation information to the user is initiated.

[0056] By documenting the testing and installation, i.e. the installation documentation, at least one of the following information can be documented, for example: User work steps with additional information on the work steps such as processing time, which machine is being used, which user, for example which installer or fitter, carried out the activities and when, which component has been wired and / or cabled, has the assembly step been completed, which port / connection point was used, are there any open cables and what are the properties of the open cable, e.g. length, environmental parameters, e.g. temperature, humidity, current project status, protection class, e.g. IP67. The user, in particular the worker, can also enter the cause, reason or complaint in the event of deviations from the validated installation actions. The installation documentation can, for example,stored in a database. A user can trigger the documentation with physical actions (keystroke, screen, double-click).

[0057] In Fig. 4 A method 100 according to embodiments of the invention is visualized in further detail. Fig. 3 On the computer 31 shown, such as a tablet or laptop, a user can first perform a user login 301. For this purpose, the user can use a graphical user interface 32 provided by the computer 31. A project selection 302 can also be made via the user interface 32, through which, for example, an installation specification 200 for a desired project is loaded. This makes it possible to set a start 303 for the testing of an installation element 10, in particular a component 10 and / or cable 10 and / or connector 10, for an installation environment.

[0058] During installation of the installation element 10 or component 10, for example a cable 10, in an installation environment, according to method step 304, the component 10 is first identified by a reading device in preparation for testing and installation. For example, the identifier 11 can comprise information relating to one or more technical properties of the cable, including, for example, a length of the cable 10. The identifier 11 can be read or captured by the reading device by scanning, wherein the identifier 11 can be arranged, for example, as a machine-readable code or as a printed code on the cable 11. Optionally, this identification step can be repeated by the reading device during the method or at a time selected as suitable by the user in order to capture the identifier again.

[0059] According to method step 305, the test is then carried out, for example, based on a comparison of the product and / or material properties of the cable 10 with the ambient conditions with regard to compatibility. This means that the product properties are used to check whether the cable 10 used (actual component) corresponds to the planned cable (target component). Based on the recorded, measured ambient conditions, it is compared whether the installation environment (actual environment) corresponds to the planned environment (target environment), i.e. whether the properties of the installation environment correspond to the properties of the planned environment. In other words, a test is carried out with regard to compatibility or a lack of correspondence between component 10 and installation environment.

[0060] If the component and the environmental conditions match the plans, installation information, for example as a confirmation of the suitability of the component 10, is generated according to method step 306a and the output of the information is initiated according to method step 307a.

[0061] In the event of a property mismatch, either a note and / or an error message is generated according to method step 306, and then the output is initiated according to step 307. Or optionally, in the event of a mismatch, according to step 306, a search for possible alternative components for a component 10 that might be better suited to the actual installation environment can also be initiated. This option is generated as a note in step 306, and the output to the user is initiated in step 307. Optionally, in the event of a mismatch, according to method step 306, an installation instruction or a recommended course of action can also be generated, and the output can be initiated in step 307.

[0062] If a deviation between the target and actual values ​​is detected during the inspection, planning data with stored product properties and / or planning data with stored environmental properties can optionally be accessed according to process step 308. Subsequently, in process step 309, the product properties and specifications of component 10 can be compared with the specifications of the intended component stored in the planning documents.

[0063] In other words, the test according to method step 305 can determine as a result that if the actual component corresponds to the target component and the actual environment corresponds to the target environment, then there is no deviation from the planning documents to the actual situation, and therefore, a confirmation of suitability is optionally issued to the user. However, if, for example, the actual component corresponds to the target component, but the actual environment differs from the target environment, this information is generated as installation information in the form of a note in step 306a and initiated as an output in step 307a, indicating that the actual environment differs from the planned environment.

[0064] If a deviation is detected such that a reference or limit value of a property of a component or the environment is exceeded or undershot, a simulation is optionally carried out according to method step 310 to determine the effect of the exceedance or undershoot of the at least one reference or limit value due to the deviation in the properties of the environment from the planned situation. The simulation may result in the functionality of the component not being impaired or being impaired only insignificantly. Therefore, the planned component is suitable for use in the non-planned installation environment. Or the simulation may show that the functionality of the component is significantly impaired. In this case, the output result shows that the planned component is not suitable for use in the non-planned environment.In both cases, the respective result is generated and displayed as a warning message. This informs the user that the planned component is not suitable for use in the non-planned environment and that its functionality is significantly impaired.

[0065] During simulation, the requirements of the actually measured environmental properties are optionally combined with the properties of the planned component in an analysis, for example, to create a requirements profile for a suitable component. This requirements profile is then used, for example, as the minimum requirement for suitable components, so that all components stored in the database can be analyzed for the best possible match with the minimum required properties. The verification is performed by comparing the product information, for example, through a connection to a product data management system or a product lifecycle management system, which can also enable automated or manual data retrieval and entry.

[0066] Optionally, according to method step 311, a search can be conducted for suitable alternative components that are suitable for use in the non-planned environment and ensure the functionality of the machine. This can be followed, for example, by an automatic comparison of all components stored in a database to determine the best possible match between the component specifications and the specifications of the planned component. A suitable alternative is defined as a component that differs in at least one property with respect to which the planned component is unsuitable for use in the non-planned environment, insofar as the functionally relevant limit values ​​are complied with.

[0067] During the search according to step 311, it may also be determined that either none of the components 10, which may be available at an installation site, for example, meet the minimum requirements of the non-planned environmental properties, or at least one suitable component 10 is available for installation in another warehouse. In the latter case, for example, a list of suitable alternatives is generated, and the list selection is initiated as an output to the user. Optionally, a material order can also be placed according to the user's choice.

[0068] In another case, the search result may be that none of the available components or none of the components in stock in a warehouse meet the minimum requirements of the non-planned environmental properties according to the simulation. In this case, a message is generated and displayed to the user, for example, that there is no more suitable component than the one planned.

[0069] Furthermore, the search may also reveal that one of the available components 10 meets the minimum requirements of the non-planned environmental properties and is therefore suitable as an alternative to the planned component. Such a result can then be generated as installation information, which includes the alternative component as an installation recommendation. The recommendation can then be issued to the user.

[0070] Although some aspects have been described in connection with a device, it is clear that these aspects also represent a description of the corresponding method, with an element or device corresponding to a method step or a feature of a method step. Similarly, aspects described in connection with a method step also represent a description of a corresponding block, element, or feature of a corresponding device.

[0071] Embodiments of the invention may be implemented on a computer system. The computer system may be a local computing device (e.g., a personal computer, laptop, tablet computer, or mobile phone) having one or more processors and one or more storage devices, or a distributed computing system (e.g., a cloud computing system having one or more processors and one or more storage devices distributed at different locations, e.g., at a local client and / or one or more remote server farms and / or data centers). The computer system may include any circuitry or combination of circuitry. In one embodiment, the computer system may include one or more processors of any type. As used herein, the term "processor" may refer to any type of computing circuitry, e.g.,A microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLlW) microprocessor, a graphics processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a multi-core processor, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or any other type of processor or processing circuit. Other types of circuitry that may be included in the computer system may be a custom circuit, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or similar, such as one or more circuits (e.g., a communications circuit) for use in wireless devices such as mobile phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, two-way radios, and similar electronic systems.The computer system may include one or more storage devices, which may include one or more storage elements suitable for the particular application, such as main memory in the form of random access memory (RAM), one or more hard disks, and / or one or more drives that handle removable media such as compact disks (CDs), flash memory cards, digital video disks (DVDs), and the like. The computer system may also include a display device, one or more speakers, and a keyboard and / or a control device, which may include a mouse, trackball, touchscreen, speech recognition device, or other device that enables a system user to input information to and receive information from the computer system.

[0072] Some or all of the method steps may be performed by (or using) a hardware device, such as a processor, a microprocessor, a programmable computer, or an electronic circuit. In some embodiments, some or more of the key method steps may be performed by such a device.

[0073] Depending on specific implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention may be implemented in hardware or software. The implementation may be performed using a non-transferable storage medium such as a digital storage medium, for example, a floppy disk, DVD, Blu-ray, CD, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or FLASH memory, on which electronically readable control signals are stored that interact (or can interact) with a programmable computer system to perform the respective method. Therefore, the digital storage medium may be computer-readable.

[0074] Some embodiments of the invention comprise a data carrier with electronically readable control signals capable of cooperating with a programmable computer system so that one of the methods described herein is carried out.

[0075] In general, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a computer program product with program code, wherein the program code serves to perform one of the methods when the computer program product is run on a computer. The program code can, for example, be stored on a machine-readable medium.

[0076] Other embodiments include the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein stored on a machine-readable medium.

[0077] In other words, one embodiment of the present invention is therefore a computer program having a program code for carrying out one of the methods described herein when the computer program runs on a computer.

[0078] A further embodiment of the present invention is therefore a storage medium (or a data carrier or a computer-readable medium) on which the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein is stored when executed by a processor. The data carrier, the digital storage medium, or the recorded medium is typically tangible and / or non-transferable. A further embodiment of the present invention is a device as described herein, comprising a processor and the storage medium.

[0079] A further embodiment of the invention is therefore a data stream or a sequence of signals that represent the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein. The data stream or signal sequence can, for example, be designed such that it can be transmitted via a data communication connection, e.g., via the Internet.

[0080] Another embodiment comprises a processing means, e.g., a computer or a programmable logic device, configured or adapted to perform any of the methods described herein.

[0081] A further embodiment comprises a computer on which the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein is installed.

[0082] A further embodiment of the invention comprises a device or system configured to transmit a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein to a recipient (e.g., electronically or optically). The recipient may be, for example, a computer, a mobile device, a storage device, or the like. The device or system may, for example, comprise a file server for transmitting the computer program to the recipient.

[0083] In some embodiments, a programmable logic device (e.g., a field-programmable gate array) may be used to perform some or all of the functions of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, a field-programmable gate array may cooperate with a microprocessor to perform any of the methods described herein. In general, the methods are preferably performed by any hardware device. List of reference symbols

[0084] 1Machine, system 2System 3Master module 4Module, switch, component, connection module 5Device, sensor, actuator 6Hub 8Control device, PLC 9Control cabinet 10Installation element 11Identifier 12Identification means, machine-readable code 13Power supply 20Computer program 21Bus system 22Detection device 30Device 31Computer 32User interface 33Data storage 41Display element 42Connection point, slot 100Procedure 101First process step 102Second process step 103Third process step 200Installation Specifications 301User Login 302Project Selection 303Start Guide 304Identification 305Check 306Generate 307Initiate Output 308Access Stored Data 309Compare Properties 310Simulation 311Search

Claims

1. A method (100) for a computer-aided verifying of an installation element (10) for an installation environment, the method (100) comprising the following steps: Verifying (101) a suitability of the installation element (10) for an installation in the installation environment based on a compatibility assessment of at least one property of the installation element (10) in relation to at least one property of the installation environment; Generating (102) at least one installation information based on a result of the verifying (101) to assist a user during installation; and Initiating (103) an output of the generated at least one installation information for the user, characterized in that the method (100) comprises the following further step when verifying (101) the suitability: Checking a compliance with at least one reference and / or limit value for the at least one property of the installation element (10), wherein the following steps are carried out if a deviation of the at least one property of the installation element (10) from the at least one reference and / or limit value is detected: Simulating a negative effect of the deviation in order to specify a further installation element (10), the use of which neutralizes the negative effect; Generating an output of the at least one installation information as a function of a result of the simulation, wherein a list of suitable installation elements (10) for the installation environment is output.

2. The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one installation information comprises an installation instruction to assist the user during the installation; wherein preferably initiating (103) the output comprises at least one of the following steps: Initiating an output of the installation instruction as an indication of a connection point (42) of an electrical component (4) for a connection of the installation element (10) and / or an indication of a suitability of the installation element (10), preferably as an indication to the user that the installation element (10) is suitable for use in the installation environment; Initiating a visual output of the installation instruction, preferably by a graphical user interface (32) and / or by means of augmented reality and / or by a signal transmitter of the electrical component (4); Initiating an acoustic output, in particular a voice output, of the installation instruction.

3. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein upon initiating (103) the output, at least one of the subsequent steps is performed if the suitability of the installation element (10) for installation in the installation environment is determined to be insufficient based on the result of the verifying (101): Initiating an output of a warning and / or error message, preferably the warning and / or error message that the installation element (10) is not suitable for use in the installation environment and a functionality of the installation element (10) is significantly impaired; Initiating an output of an installation instruction and / or a recommended action, preferably with an indication of another installation element (10) with a higher suitability than the verified installation element (10) for the installation in the installation environment.

4. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method (100) comprises the following further step: Automatic documentation of the suitability of the installation element (10) depending on the result of the verifying (101).

5. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method (100) comprises the following further step: Providing installation data of the installation element (10), in particular of a cable and / or plug connector, the installation data comprising planning data for the at least one property of the installation element (10).

6. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method (100) comprises the following further step: Providing installation data of the installation environment, wherein the installation data comprises planning data for the at least one property of the installation environment.

7. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one property of the installation element (10) comprises at least one of the following: a permissible temperature range for which the installation element (10) is suitable; a range of humidity for which the installation element (10) is suitable; a nominal electrical voltage for which the installation element (10) is suitable; a permissible acceleration for which the installation element (10) is suitable; a minimum bending radius for which the installation element (10) is suitable; a minimum and / or maximum mechanical load for which the installation element is suitable; a minimum and / or maximum number of wires within the plug connector and / or cable; coding of the connector as a signal line A-, B-, C-, D-, or X-coded and / or as a power line A-, K-, L and / or as a data line A-, B-, D-, X-, and Y-coded and / or with LED and / or coding as a shielded or unshielded connector and / or a hybrid line, in particular as a combination of the aforementioned lines; a specific cable outlet, preferably a plug for a range of 0° - to 90°, preferably 45° to 60°, for which the installation element is suitable; a specific connection on the respective sides for which an installation element is suitable, in particular as an M8, M12, M23, RJ45, 7 / 8 (seven-eighths), MQ15, MSUD (valve connector), Deutschstecker or RJ45PP connection; a specific plug connector type for which the installation element is suitable, in particular a connector type of the type socket-socket, socket-plug, plug-socket or plug-plug, H, T and Y pieces and distributors; a specific application for which the installation element is suitable, in particular as an AS-Interface, Ethernet, motor, fieldbus application or sensor / actuator cable; an appropriate design of the installation element depending on the environment for which the installation element is suitable; a safety and / or redundancy requirement for which the installation element is suitable.

8. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one property of the installation environment comprises at least one of the following: a temperature range, which is intended as the air temperature in the installation environment; a humidity level that is intended for the installation environment; a wetness which is provided in the installation environment; an electrical voltage which is provided as the operating voltage for the installation element (10); a chemical resistance which is provided for in the installation environment; an air pressure which is provided for in the installation environment; a UV exposure that is intended in the installation environment; a bacterial load, which is provided for in the installation environment; a biological load that is intended in the installation environment; a permissible acceleration for which the installation element (10) is suitable; a vibration that is provided in the installation environment; a noise load that is intended in the installation environment; a structure-borne sound, which is provided for in the installation environment; a corresponding design of the installation element depending on the application sector for which the installation element is suitable.

9. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein verifying (101) the suitability of the installation element (10) for the installation in the installation environment comprises the following steps: Determining the at least one property of the installation element (10), preferably from a database and / or from a data memory, where the at least one property in each case defines a requirement for a parameter of the installation environment and / or specifies a technical parameter of the installation element (10); Determining the at least one property of the installation environment, preferably by a measurement and / or from a database and / or from a data memory, wherein the at least one property in each case defines a requirement for the technical parameter of the installation element (10) and / or specifies the parameter of the installation environment; Performing the compatibility assessment by checking the at least one requirement to determine the suitability of the installation element (10) for the installation in the installation environment as sufficient if fulfilled and insufficient otherwise.

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

11. The method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the installation element (10) is designed in the form of a component and / or cable and / or plug connector, and / or in that the method for the computer-aided testing of the installation element for the installation environment for an installation of spatially decentralized electrical components (4) of a machine (1), in particular a plant (1), and / or in that the step of verifying (101) the suitability of the installation element (10) for the installation in the installation environment is carried out based on a compatibility assessment of at least one property of the installation element (10) in relation to at least one property of the installation environment, in particular a temperature and / or humidity and / or electrical voltage and / or acceleration.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the following steps are performed if a deviation of the at least one property of the installation element (10) from the at least one reference and / or limit value is detected: Simulating an effect of the deviation in order to determine the suitability of the installation element (10) for installation in the installation environment depending on the effect; Specifying a further installation element (10) which comprises a higher suitability for use in the installation environment and / or ensures functionality of the machine (1) if the suitability is determined to be insufficient; and Generating an output of the installation information depending on a result of the simulation, preferably outputting a list of suitable installation elements (10) for the installation environment.

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

14. A computer program (20) comprising instructions, which, when the program is executed by a computer (31), cause the computer (31) to execute the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.