METHOD FOR COMPUTER-BASED INSTALLATION OF SPATIALLY DECENTRALIZED COMPONENTS OF A MACHINE

Description

Technical field

[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 components of a machine. background

[0002] The complexity and diversity of automation systems that need to be developed, planned, installed, maintained, and repaired is constantly increasing. In all phases of such a system's lifecycle—development / planning, production, commissioning, operation, and maintenance—efficient and effective support for installers and planners through comprehensive and, above all, complete documentation is becoming increasingly important. However, the documentation currently available in practice, such as circuit diagrams, does not always meet this requirement. Poorly coordinated work processes or the use of incompatible documentation tools often result in installation activities being insufficiently or incompletely recorded. These well-known issues inevitably lead to gaps in the system documentation, which complicates or even prevents reliable maintenance or repair.In the worst case, it makes it impossible. Therefore, the invention aims to provide a computer-aided method and system to enable simpler, faster, safer, and error-free installation of components, thereby at least partially overcoming the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art. EP 3 244 286 A1 describes a computer-implemented method for installing a first physical element, comprising receiving information about physical elements and projecting an image corresponding to the first physical element onto or into a second physical element using an augmented reality system. WO 2022 / 020787 A1 discloses an iteratively guided disassembly and assembly process for an electrical device (switch cabinet).WO 2017 / 191059 A1 discloses a system for reconfiguring a control cabinet, comprising a detection unit for detecting functional units of an electrical circuit mounted inside the control cabinet and an output unit for outputting identified substitute functional units. Description of the invention

[0003] The foregoing problem is solved by a method, computer program and a device for data processing according to the independent patent claims.

[0004] Further features and details of the invention can be found in the respective dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0005] The invention relates to a method for computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized components of a machine.

[0006] The machine can be designed as at least one of the following machines: An automation system, a production plant, a logistics system, a production line, a machining center, an industrial robot, a manufacturing plant, a unit, an electrical device.

[0007] 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.

[0008] The components, particularly the electrical components, can include installation elements such as cables and / or connectors. Furthermore, the components, particularly the electrical components, can include modules such as connection modules, whereby the connection modules can enable a decentralized and modular connection of installation elements. Decentralized in this context can refer to the fact that the connection modules at least partially replace a central control cabinet by providing only a portion of the connections for the machine, but enabling these connections decentrally in the field. In a centralized topology, such as a centralized control cabinet concept, this is specifically referred to as a point-to-point connection, meaning the starting point, the connection, and the endpoint are clearly defined. In contrast, decentralized applications allow for...It may often even be necessary to arrange or connect several components between the starting point and the endpoint. In this case, one can speak, for example, of a module-module or module-hub-point connection.

[0009] In principle, a machine can include the following components, for example: devices such as actuators and / or sensors, connection modules, and installation elements, e.g., for cabling. Accordingly, the components can also be designed as installation elements.

[0010] The method according to the invention can comprise the following steps, which are preferably carried out one after the other or in any order, wherein the steps can also be carried out automatically and / or repeatedly: Receiving a component identifier, providing an installation specification that defines the assignment of the component to one or more installation locations on the machine, identifying at least one installation proposal for the installation of the component based on the provided installation specification and the received identifier, preferably selecting the installation location or locations based on an evaluation, with the selected installation location or locations being specified by the at least one installation proposal, and initiating an output of at least one installation information based on the at least one identified installation proposal. Identifying at least one installation proposal involves the following steps: Determine at least one technical property of the component based on the received identifier; determine at least one technical requirement of the component at the at least one installation location based on the provided installation specifications; perform the evaluation, which checks whether the at least one technical property of the component fulfills the at least one technical requirement for the respective installation location; select the installation location(s) for which the fulfillment of the requirement is determined.

[0011] This method enables simpler, faster, and error-free component assignment, thereby significantly supporting the user in machine installation and simplifying the process. Furthermore, a support system for installation, particularly for component installation, can be provided directly at the machine and / or on machine parts to guide the user. It is possible for a data processing device to automate the process steps. The data processing device, especially a data processing device according to the invention, can advantageously communicate with individual components to, for example, receive the identifier, initiate the output, verify the installation, and / or determine the connection status.For this purpose, the data processing device may have at least one interface for communication.

[0012] 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 technician and / or machine operator. It is possible for the user to utilize the method according to the invention by having the method, and preferably the output, provided to the user at least partially via a computer. For this purpose, a computer program can be executed at least partially by the computer and / or another computer to carry out the method steps according to the invention. The computer can be a mobile computer such as a laptop or a tablet.

[0013] Furthermore, it is possible for several users to apply the method according to the invention simultaneously or at least partially concurrently. Accordingly, the steps of a method according to the invention can also be carried out multiple times and / or at least partially in parallel. For example, the steps are executed at least partially simultaneously for at least two, at least three, or at least four users. When selecting the installation locations, the locations of the various users can be taken into account (e.g., an installation location near a user is preferred). It is also possible for the method to use the same installation settings for all users. For this purpose, the installation settings can be stored centrally, so that all users, for example,It can be accessed via a data network, and installation progress can be tracked transparently and centrally for all users.

[0014] Several components may be required for the machine's installation. For example, the installed components connect actuators and / or sensors to a control device, enabling the control device, such as a PLC, to control and / or read the actuators and / or sensors. Each of these components can be assigned an identifier for unique identification. This identifier can be information that can be processed digitally. For instance, the identifier could include a serial number and / or article number. Therefore, it is also possible to determine the component's technical characteristics using the identifier (e.g., an article number or similar information can be derived from the serial number, along with available technical specifications). It is also possible that the installation specifications may include, for example...The technical requirements for a component at a given installation location are indicated by article numbers or similar identifiers. This allows the component to be assigned to one or more installation locations.

[0015] Within the scope of the invention, an installation location is defined as, for example, an (electrical) connection point and / or a component and / or a connecting element and / or a machine part of the machine to which the component can be electrically and / or mechanically connected.

[0016] The respective component can have an identifier by providing and / or attaching a physical or electronic identification means to the installation element. The components can be, for example, installation elements, connection modules, devices, cables, or parts 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 component in connection with the machine and / or other machines and / or the machine's installation using the identifier. Furthermore, it is possible that the method according to the invention can initiate the printing of the physical identification means and / or automatically transfer the digital identification means to the component.

[0017] The identifier can be assigned one or more pieces of information about the component. At least one piece of information can include at least one of the following: at least one status piece of information, the output installation information, an identifier of the identified component, at least one of the documentation specifications described in more detail below, such as component type, machine type, plant type, user, designation, name, station name, timestamp such as date and time, installation duration, address in a bus system, application-specific tag, equipment identification, port assignment, port configuration, temperature, humidity, acceleration, emissions, current project status during assembly, deviation from the plan and reason, component serial number, component part number, component MAC address, and preferably a network interface of the component.Digitally storing at least one piece of information associated with the identifier thus makes it possible to create a digital twin of the component. In this way, passive smartification of the component can be enabled. An Application Specific Tag (ASN) is understood as an identifier, particularly within an IO-Link communication system. IO-Link is defined in the IEC 61131-9 standard as a communication system for connecting intelligent sensors and actuators to an automation system.

[0018] Smartification refers specifically to the enhancement of an industrial product, such as a component, part, or installation element like a cable, by adding intelligent or automated features. Information technologies enable components to process data and offer additional value. Passive smartification can be implemented as a preliminary step using a passive intelligent component, such as an NFC chip (Near Field Communication, abbreviated NFC) and / or a machine-readable code. This creates a foundation for automated data acquisition or modifications and their impact on a machine's function.The unique, preferably one-to-one, identification in conjunction with access to an external database can enable the active enrichment of information and thus a passive smartification.

[0019] In particular, the components are used to operate machine devices such as actuators and / or sensors, i.e., preferably to control and / or read data from them. A control device such as a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) may be provided for the operation of the devices, which can perform the electrical operation of the devices via the components and installation elements. For this purpose, the control device may be electrically connected to the components.

[0020] Preferably, the component can include a connection module, for example, a fieldbus module. The fieldbus module can connect other components, such as installation elements, parts, and / or devices, within a machine via a digital bus system, in particular a fieldbus. Several connection modules can be communicatively linked to each other via the bus system. A fieldbus, in particular, comprises a single bus cable and connects all levels, from the field level to the control level. Regardless of the type of automation, the fieldbus networks the components in a system. A fieldbus is preferably also a digital communication network that can transmit the various signals of individual components via fieldbus nodes, so-called hubs. Communication via the fieldbus can take place using various communication protocols.

[0021] Furthermore, it is possible that at least one piece of installation information includes installation instructions to assist a user, such as a worker and / or installer, during the installation process. These installation instructions may also include a guide for the installation itself, for example, a step-by-step guide.

[0022] Initiating the output can include at least one of the following steps: Initiating a display of the at least one selected installation location for the component on a computer user interface, wherein the user interface preferably visualizes a digital twin of at least one part of the machine, and preferably visualizes a topology and / or a mechanical and / or an electrical connection diagram of the part of the machine, such that the installation location can be displayed, in particular, by marking the installation location on the digital twin and / or the topology and / or the connection diagram; initiating a display of the at least one selected installation location of the component using augmented reality, and thus preferably by marking it directly at the physical, real installation location; initiating an output of the installation instructions as an instruction for the user.to use a desired installation location from a list of several selected installation locations for installation and / or to mount the component at the, preferably desired, installation location; to initiate an acoustic output, in particular a voice output, of the installation instructions, preferably a naming of the installation location; to initiate a graphical display of the installation instructions, preferably in a graphical user interface, preferably in conjunction with a visualization of the machine; to initiate a graphical display of a list of several selected installation locations based on the installation proposal.

[0023] This allows the user to be directly informed through the installation instructions how the component should be installed. For example, by displaying at least one installation location for the component in the installation instructions, it can be indicated where on the machine the component should be connected and / or to which part of the machine the component can be electrically connected. This part of the machine could be, for example, another component, a connecting element, or a part.

[0024] The at least one selected installation location, which is specifically suggested in the installation specifications for connecting the component using the received identifier, can be queried from the installation specifications using the received identifier. The installation specifications may allow for electronic querying, for example, via a database and / or a list and / or the like. Furthermore, the installation specifications may specify multiple installation locations for which the component is suitable. For example, the identifier may specify a technical characteristic of the component, such as one based on an article and / or serial number, and the installation specifications may specify a technical requirement, such as one based on an article number, for the different installation locations.It is possible that an installation location is selected and the installation proposal suggests the installation of the component if the suitability of the component is determined there through evaluation.

[0025] The display of at least one selected installation location as an installation suggestion on the user interface can, for example, include a graphical representation of one or more installation locations for the component, whereby the at least one selected installation location, which is suggested for connecting the component with the received identifier, can be graphically highlighted.

[0026] The user interface can be a graphical user interface displayed on a screen, preferably a computer screen. The computer can be, for example, a portable computer such as a laptop or tablet.

[0027] Augmented reality (AR) can be used, for example, by having a user wear 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 overlay additional information onto the camera image. This additional information includes, for example, highlighting the installation location if the camera image shows the physical location of the component. It is also possible for the user to use an input device to mark the highlighted installation location. The marked installation location can then be recorded via an installation message to automatically add to the installation settings that the component has been installed at that location.

[0028] Furthermore, an acoustic output can also be provided, which may include, for example, the activation of a loudspeaker. The acoustic output could, for instance, be a voice output announcing the location of the installation.

[0029] It is conceivable that at least one piece of installation information for computer-aided installation could be used by specifying at least one installation location where the component can be connected to another component and / or an installation element such as a cable. This would support the installation process, as it would eliminate the need for an experienced user to manually evaluate and select suitable installation locations from a circuit diagram. Instead, this task could be automated, as suitable installation locations could be automatically selected and specified by the installation information.

[0030] Furthermore, it is not only possible to specify at least one selected installation location where a connection of the component is possible, e.g., with another component and / or an installation element such as a cable. It can also be advantageous if, within the scope of the invention, the method includes the following additional step: determining the connection status of the component to ascertain whether the connection has been established. This thus provides a kind of feedback mechanism to facilitate computer-aided installation by automatically detecting installation progress. For this purpose, for example, an electrical connection test can be performed, which automatically determines whether the electrical component has an electrically conductive connection to and via a bus system, such as a fieldbus system.Additional or alternative methods for determining the connection status may also be provided. Determining the connection status may further include: receiving an installation message based on user input and / or from the component. The received installation message can indicate that the component's connection has been established. This allows verification that the installation location specified in the installation information has indeed been connected to the bus system at that location. It is possible that the establishment of the connection, for example, through manual acknowledgment by a user and / or automatic acknowledgment, triggers documentation. This documentation might, for example, store installation documentation, as described in more detail below. This documentation may, if necessary,This process can be repeated, for example, each time an activity is acknowledged, in order to gradually build up the installation documentation. To make the installation instructions visible to the user in the machine and to document the work performed in the system, it is advantageous that the system, and preferably the device according to the invention, can communicate with the components. Following installation and / or documentation, the control device can optionally be programmed and / or the component(s) configured based on the documentation. Because of this, it is possible that the component may not initially know what task it is to perform in the future machine. This can also be described as "unconfigured."

[0031] A further advantage of the invention can be achieved if the method includes the following additional steps: Verifying the selected installation location of the component based on the received identifier and the installation specifications, in particular to determine whether a user has correctly implemented the installation information in the form of installation instructions for the selected installation location. Preferably, depending on the verification, a marker for the installation location is stored, and particularly preferably, in the case of a positive verification, the following step is performed: Storing the marker for the installation location as the correctly selected installation location in the installation location specification, and advantageously, in the case of a negative verification, at least one of the following steps is performed: Storing a marker for the installation location as a changed selected installation location in the installation location specification, preferably based on an installation parameter entered by the user, in particular a reason for the change, preferably including information on the reason for the change. Initiating a correction of the selected installation location according to the installation location specification.

[0032] Advantageously, verification can be performed based on the connection status. This verification allows for an assessment of whether the user has correctly selected the installation location using the identifier. The verification result can be used to record the identifier in the installation specifications. This allows the installation specifications to be used later to check which properties the component at the selected installation location possesses, for example, to connect a suitable installation element to the verified component, and / or to check to what extent the installation deviated from the technical specifications at the selected installation location.

[0033] If a user deviates from the installation instructions, this is often due to a relevant reason or occasion. Therefore, the user may be given the option to enter an installation parameter, for example, via the user interface and / or an input device such as voice input and / or a keyboard and / or a mouse and / or a touchscreen.Advantageously, in the event of a negative verification, i.e., if the user has not correctly implemented the installation instructions, at least one of the following steps can be performed: Identifying the connection point as a changed connected connection point in the installation specification, preferably based on an installation parameter entered by the user, in particular a reason for the change, preferably including information about the reason for the change; and preferably: initiating a correction of the connection according to the installation specification. The correction can, for example, include an adjustment of the installation specification if the new connection is justified and thus contributes advantageously to the desired installation.

[0034] Furthermore, it may be provided that the at least one piece of installation information includes installation instructions to assist a user in rebuilding the machine, wherein initiating the output preferably includes at least the following step: initiating the output of an installation sequence using the at least one piece of installation information for installing the machine. The installation information may, for example, include installation instructions that also specify an installation sequence. This simplifies the installation process for a user during rebuilding and speeds up the installation, as a complex interpretation of a circuit diagram and, in particular, a wiring diagram is at least partially eliminated.

[0035] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, initiating the output may include initiating bidirectional communication with the identified component via a bus system. This significantly simplifies and accelerates communication, for example, during the configuration of the component or multiple components. The output can be triggered, for instance, by transmitting a specific message, preferably a command or a configuration message, to the component via the bus system. For this purpose, a computer program can be executed by a data processing device connected to the bus system.

[0036] It is possible to automatically specify at which installation location(s) a particular component can be installed. For example, the installation specifications might define technical requirements for each location. This could be achieved by specifying a component's part number for that location. However, for proper installation, it may not be strictly necessary to specify the exact component, e.g., by its serial number, in the installation specifications, as other components with different serial numbers could have the same technical properties corresponding to their part numbers. It is also conceivable that a component can be installed at a location with a different part number than the one specified for the component itself.This is because the component can also meet the technical requirements of a component with the same part number. For example, a component in the form of a connector with the technical property "8 m length" can also be installed at an installation location that specifies a length of "5 m" as the technical requirement, since the connector can be shortened accordingly. However, it is not possible for a component in the form of a connection module with the technical property "Slave" to be installed at an installation location that specifies a "Master" as the technical requirement.

[0037] By marking an installation element with a machine-readable code containing the article number and / or serial number and / or other technical characteristics, the cable or installation element can be passively smartified. This allows the system to directly check, validate, and document the technical suitability of the installation element. For example, it can determine whether the installation element is suitable for cable carriers or whether it is being installed at a statically loaded location and is therefore overqualified for cable carrier suitability at that installation site. Furthermore, the serial number marking ensures that the installation element is uniquely assigned to its corresponding installation location after documentation and can be traced back to the correct location even during subsequent disassembly or replacement.

[0038] The technical requirements can be extracted, for example, based on the installation specifications. Using the part number specified in the installation specifications for a given installation location, the technical requirements are determined from a (possibly digitized) datasheet for that part number. This makes it possible to find a suitable installation location even for components not explicitly included in the installation specifications. This reduces the technical effort required for procuring components and allows existing components to be reused.

[0039] It is possible that the evaluation will reveal that at least one technical characteristic of the component fails to meet at least one requirement, in which case it is an underqualified component. However, it is also possible that at least one technical characteristic of the component even exceeds at least one requirement (see the preceding example of the 8 m long connecting element). In this case, it may be an overqualified component. This overqualification can be quantified accordingly during the evaluation. When selecting one or more installation locations, it may be stipulated that an installation location with the lowest possible degree of overqualification be chosen and / or preferred for the installation of the component.It is also possible that a ranking of the selected installation locations is determined based on the quantification of overqualification and / or specified through the installation information.

[0040] It is also possible that the following step is planned: Selecting the installation location(s) for which the requirement is only partially met, whereby an installation instruction can be generated with a specification of actions and / or instructions to nevertheless carry out the installation of the component at the installation location.

[0041] For example, if a component is underqualified, there may still be a way to install it. For instance, measures can be taken to compensate for the component's underqualification. For example, if a protection class is required, the action taken can ensure that the component's protection is achieved through other means.

[0042] The requirement can, for example, include a requirement in the form of a protection class and / or a specification of a physical property and / or a specification of a technical, in particular electrical and / or mechanical, specification. Preferably, the requirement can be formulated as a minimum requirement for the technical property (e.g., a minimum length of the connecting element is specified).

[0043] Furthermore, a ranking of the selected installation locations can be determined based on the comparison. The evaluation can, for example, quantify the degree of fulfillment, so that the determination of requirement fulfillment does not have to be expressed in binary terms. The installation locations can then be prioritized according to this quantification. It is conceivable that the entire ranking could be displayed to a user as a list of the selected installation locations. It is also conceivable that only a portion of the ranking could be displayed to a user, for example, only the installation location where the component exhibits the least overqualification would be shown as a selected installation location.

[0044] Furthermore, determining at least one technical property of the component may involve retrieving the technical property from a database. For example, at least one technical property is assigned to the identifier in the database.

[0045] Furthermore, determining at least one technical requirement may include: Determining a designation in the installation specifications, preferably an article number in a circuit diagram, wherein the designation preferably correlates with specified technical properties, reading the specified technical properties from a database based on the designation in order to determine the technical requirements.

[0046] The identifier can be, for example, an article number. If it is determined that the identifier already matches this article number, the matching process can potentially be skipped, as it is already established that the requirement is met. The database can be accessed, for example, via a network and / or the internet. The database can be hosted locally or provided via a cloud.

[0047] It is possible that the method according to the invention comprises at least one of the following further steps: Generating an additional identifier for the component to indicate that the specific component has been installed at the installation location. Extending the installation specification to include the identifier and / or a further specification of the component, preferably a network address such as IP and / or MAC address and / or application-specific tag, preferably assigned to the selected installation location used for the installation of the component by a user.

[0048] As described above, the installation configuration may only contain generic information about which component is assigned to which installation location before the component is installed. The component may also be suitable for multiple installation locations, meaning that the specific installation location is only determined by a user's installation action. To indicate this in the installation configuration, an additional identifier and / or further specification can be requested. For example, a serial number of the installed component can be stored in the installation configuration for the installation location. It is also possible, and potentially necessary for control by the control device, to store the MAC address or another network address of the installed component, such as the application-specific tag, in the installation configuration.It is also conceivable that a sensor is included as a component, which receives a device name and / or an application-specific tag. This can also be stored as an additional identifier in the installation specifications. Storing this information can lead to an extension of the installation specifications, allowing for the recording of installation progress and / or status. This enables fault detection and / or diagnosis, for example, by the control device, even during later machine operation, such as when a fault like a broken cable occurs. Furthermore, when rebuilding the machine and using application-specific tags as identifiers, the installation of components can be simpler and faster, as these identifiers eliminate the need to select the correct connection point.

[0049] Advantageously, the invention may provide that at least one of the following specifications is received, preferably via the installation message, in order to create a digital twin of the installation element and / or the electrical component based on the received identifier and the identified component: component type, machine type, plant type, user, designation, name, I / O link name, station name, timestamp (date and time), installation duration, address in a bus system, equipment identification, port assignment, port configuration, temperature, humidity, acceleration, emissions, current project status during installation, deviation from the plan, and / or reason. Within the scope of this invention, the at least one specification may also be referred to as a documentation specification.

[0050] The installation message may, for example, have been generated based on user input, where the user may have specified at least one specification. It is also possible for the specification to be determined automatically, for example, by the component and / or a data processing device, particularly based on the received identifier. For this purpose, at least one specification may be stored in the component and / or in the installation element.

[0051] Another possibility is that the installation information includes an installation configuration and / or installation documentation, preferably for disassembly and / or reassembly of the machine. This documentation is stored, preferably in a data storage device, and / or transferred to the electrical component. The data storage device can be non-volatile to reliably enable subsequent evaluation of the installation configuration and / or installation documentation. The installation configuration and / or installation documentation can, for example, include the stored identification based on the verification.

[0052] A further advantage can be achieved within the scope of the invention if the installation information includes a unique identifier that identifies the installation element and / or the identified component, wherein the installation information is stored in the installation specification, in particular in a digitized blueprint, preferably comprising ECAD and / or MCAD data, and / or wherein the installation element is selected from a plurality of similar installation elements based on the identifier, and / or the identified component is selected from a plurality of similar components. The installation specification thus makes it possible to query the assignment of the installation elements to the components based on the identifier and / or the identifier. For this purpose, the installation specification can include a link between the identifiers and / or with the identifiers.The identifier can optionally be uniquely assigned to one of the identifiers of the installation elements and / or the identifier can correspond to this identifier.

[0053] A further advantage of the invention can be achieved if the installation specification includes a predefined specification for a modular and / or decentralized design of the machine, in particular the system, preferably based on predefined ECAD and / or MCAD data, especially regarding the interconnection of the components in the form of connection modules, preferably including an electrical connection diagram, wherein the installation specification is preferably determined by linking the ECAD and MCAD data. Thus, the installation specification can include a digital circuit diagram and / or construction plan and / or installation plan of the machine.

[0054] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that a configuration of the component is carried out using the identifier in order to transfer the component from a basic configured state, in which the component is preferably configured for bidirectional communication via a bus system and / or functional control by a control device, preferably a PLC, is excluded, to a state with extended configuration for functional control by the control device.

[0055] The received identifier makes it possible to identify which component should be connected at which installation location. This identification can be used to automate the necessary configuration of the components for installation, significantly reducing the configuration effort for each component during installation and later during system operation. For example, the received identifier and the installation specifications determine which component is (or will be) connected to the bus system. The component can then be configured accordingly for that installation location, so that the control device knows which component is connected for subsequent functional control. This allows the control device, for example, to..., to test or operate an installation element and / or at least one device of the machine such as an actuator and / or sensor via this component.

[0056] A further advantage can be achieved within the scope of the invention if the identifier comprises an identifier, in particular an article number of the connection module and / or a type of the component, in particular of the connection module and / or at least one technical property of the component.

[0057] This has the advantage of ensuring a significantly faster assignment of a component according to the identifier.

[0058] In another possibility, the evaluation for selecting at least one installation location may include the following further procedural step: simulating the technical properties of the component at the at least one selected installation location with regard to its influence on a functionality specified in the installation requirements, thereby providing a result of the simulation regarding the suitability and / or functionality of the component for the selected installation location; the initiation of an output of at least one piece of installation information includes the subsequent step of initiating an output of a recommendation for action as a suggestion to the user to mount an alternative component at the at least one selected installation location based on the result of the simulation.

[0059] This ensures a more flexible and error-free installation of the component.

[0060] Furthermore, a data processing device, comprising means for executing the steps of a method according to the invention, can also be the subject of the invention. The device can be adapted to communicate with the components, in particular modules, of the machine, preferably without the modules being preconfigured and / or connected to a control device.

[0061] Furthermore, it is possible that the components and a computer and / or a control device are connected to each other via a bus system for bidirectional communication, whereby the bidirectional communication is based on a communication protocol for a fieldbus system, in particular on the basis of a ProfiNet, Ethernet / IP, EtherCAT or 802.3 standard, and / or the bidirectional communication is provided via a wired bus system or wirelessly via Bluetooth or WLAN, on the basis of a standard according to IEEE 802.11 or on the basis of a mobile telecommunications standard.

[0062] The invention also relates to a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, such as the data processing device according to the invention, cause the computer to perform the steps of a method according to the invention. Thus, the computer program according to the invention offers the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to a method according to the invention.

[0063] It may be possible for multiple users to perform the (same) process steps simultaneously and / or at least partially concurrently. The simultaneous and / or at least partially concurrent execution of (same) process steps by multiple users is also referred to as a multi-user application.

[0064] In connection with a method according to the invention, particularly in a multi-user application and / or in the further method, a handover between the different users can be provided. To enable a handover between the, preferably both, users and to ensure an optimal process, the processing status of each user can be automatically and digitally documented in real time. This allows the two or more users to work simultaneously on different areas of the machine without endangering the integrity of the electrical installation or having to carry out lengthy coordination processes. Brief description of the drawings

[0065] For a better understanding of the revelation, reference is made to the following drawings: Fig. 1: A centralized circuit in a machine using a control cabinet. Fig. 2: A decentralized circuit 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. 5: A schematic representation of steps of a method according to embodiments of the invention. Description of the exemplary implementations

[0066] Planning, installing, and setting up machinery and electronic automation technology is a complex task. This applies to centralized control cabinet systems as well as decentralized systems where control modules are mounted directly on the equipment. The corresponding processes are carried out by various individuals, such as plant planners, electrical planners, installers, and system programmers. A key characteristic of decentralized systems, compared to centralized control cabinet systems, is the distribution of modules across different locations within a machine. Especially with larger machines, simultaneous installation—that is, installation performed concurrently by multiple users—can be advantageous for reasons of time and logistics. To ensure a smooth installation process, the work progress should be digitally documented automatically, individually for each user, and in real time.Throughout the entire plant lifecycle, it is important for various reasons (such as maintenance planning, system diagnostics) to have complete documentation of all relevant information.

[0067] In Fig. 1 A centralized circuit is schematically represented by means of a control cabinet 9, in order to differentiate it from a decentralized circuit using spatially decentralized components 4 of a machine 1 in Fig. 2 to compare. Instead of connecting all devices 5 such as sensors and actuators directly to the control cabinet 9 as in Fig. 1 As shown, decentralized interconnection can be used in Fig. 2Several components 4, in particular connection modules, are used. These enable, like the control cabinet 9, the coupling of the devices 5 with a control device 8 such as a PLC. However, the connection modules 4 can be decentralized and distributed near the devices 5. The connection modules 4 thus only partially connect the devices 5, with the connection modules 4 together, or, for example, one and / or several connection modules 4 via one and / or more hubs 6, handling the entire connection. To enable the centralized configuration and / or control of the connection modules 4, a master module 3 can be connected upstream of several of the individual connection modules 4. It is also possible for the connection to be further subdivided by means of at least one hub 6.

[0068] In Fig. 3The figures show parts of a system 2 according to exemplary embodiments of the invention, which can be provided for a computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized components 4 of a machine 1. The system 2 can include a detection device 22, in particular a scanner 22 or a camera 22, for providing an identifier 11. Furthermore, the system 2 can have at least one component 4, preferably in the form of a connection module 4 for connection to the installation element 10 and further installation elements 10. A data processing device 30 can also be part of the system 2, wherein this data processing device 30 can include means for carrying out the steps of a method 100 according to exemplary embodiments of the invention.

[0069] The identifier 11 can be encoded in a machine-readable code 12 assigned to, and in particular arranged on, component 4, wherein the machine-readable code 12 is implemented in a machine-readable manner by means of the detection device 22. This enables a user to scan the code 12 using the detection device 22 and thus transmit the identifier 11 to the data processing device 30.

[0070] Furthermore, the components 4 and at least one computer 30, 31 and / or a control device 8 can each be connected to each other via a bus system 21 for bidirectional communication via a bus system, e.g., a fieldbus system. The bidirectional communication can be based on a communication protocol for the fieldbus system, in particular on a ProfiNet, EthernetCat, Ethernet / IP, or 802.3 standard, and / or the bidirectional communication can be wired via a bus system 21 or wirelessly via Bluetooth or WLAN, based on a standard according to IEEE 802.11, or on a mobile communications standard. To enable operation of the component 4, the component 4 can also be connected to a power supply 13.

[0071] Furthermore, a computer program 20 is shown which includes instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer 30, cause it to perform the steps of the method 100 according to embodiments of the invention.

[0072] Furthermore, an exemplary installation specification 200 and an installation location 201 of a component 4 shown therein are presented.

[0073] In Fig. 4 and 5The process steps of process 100 are visualized. Thus, according to a first process step 101, the identifier 11 of component 4 can be received. Subsequently, according to a second process step 102, an installation specification 200 can be provided, which specifies the assignment of component 4 to one or more installation locations of machine 1.Then, according to a third process step 103, at least one installation proposal for the installation of component 4 can be identified based on the provided installation specification 200 and the received identifier 11. This identification process selects the installation location or locations based on an evaluation, and in particular, selects only a subset of the installation locations. The selected installation location or locations are then specified by the at least one installation proposal. Finally, according to a fourth process step 104, it is possible to initiate the output of at least one piece of installation information based on the at least one identified installation proposal. This at least one piece of installation information can include installation instructions to assist a user during the installation.

[0074] Procedure 100 can provide at least one of the following support options: Supporting the user during installation, especially the installation of components and cabling; supporting the user in documenting the installation; supporting the user in testing / automated testing; supporting the user in disassembly; supporting the engineering team in planning; supporting the PLC programmer.

[0075] Initiating the output can involve initiating a display or a visual highlight of something in Fig. 3The output may include the depicted installation location 201 of component 4, in order to display an installation location, in particular a selected installation location 201, for the component 4 to be connected. Alternatively or additionally, initiating the output may include initiating a display of an installation location of component 4 on a user interface 32 of a computer 31. The user interface 32 may visualize a digital twin of at least a part of the machine 1, and preferably a mechanical and / or electrical connection diagram of the part of the machine 1. Further alternatives or additional output options include displaying an installation location 201 of component 4 using augmented reality and / or outputting the installation instructions as an instruction for the user to connect component 4 to a specific installation location 201.Furthermore, an audio output of the installation instructions can also be provided, allowing a user to follow the installation instructions without having to see the computer. For example, the identifier of the selected installation location of component 4 is announced verbally.

[0076] It is also possible that the installation information includes an installation configuration and / or installation documentation, which is stored in a data store 33 and / or transferred to component 4.

[0077] To avoid errors in documentation that can occur when manually entering information, automated data storage in the system can be advantageous. For example, all information is stored in the correct location within the various documents of the installation specifications, such as the circuit diagram or the wiring diagram. The person performing the respective step then only needs to confirm the entries.

[0078] Examples of relevant information that the installation documentation may include: Which component was used (unique, preferably one-to-one identifier)? On which machine and at which installation location on the machine was the specific component attached? By whom and when was it connected? How was the cable connected? Was the component connected correctly? Were there any deviations from the diagram?

[0079] The installation documentation can, for example, document at least one of the following pieces of information: the user's work steps with additional information such as processing time, which machine is being worked on, which user (e.g., which installer or fitter) performed the tasks and when, which component has been wired and / or connected, whether the assembly step is complete, which port / connection point was used, whether there are any exposed cables and what their properties are (e.g., length, environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, acceleration, emissions), current project status, protection class (e.g., IP67). The user, especially the operator, can also enter the reason for any deviations from the plan. The installation documentation can, for example, be stored in a database. A user can then...with physical actions (key press, screen, double-click) that trigger the documentation.

[0080] Furthermore, an evaluation unit can be provided that analyzes the documented information, preferably the user's processing times for the respective work steps. An artificial intelligence method can also be used for this purpose, which, for example, optimizes the results of the evaluation unit. The results show the user optimization potential in order to make a machine more efficient in the future, optimize components or assemblies, and improve assembly and disassembly processes. Comments regarding deviations from the plan are also taken into account.

[0081] The documentation can also function with components that are not pre-configured or connected to a PLC. This avoids errors that can arise from using externally identical but differently configured modules. Thanks to the communication capabilities of these components and the integration of all relevant information, the system can also be used to guide the user during the installation of the automation technology. Furthermore, the systematic collection and documentation of all relevant information, such as the components used, the execution of installation and maintenance tasks, and any problems encountered, leads to reliable knowledge about the current system status. The automated collection and categorization of this information significantly accelerates the process and relieves human installers of the documentation task.By automatically collecting and storing information that needs to be documented, the risk of missing and / or incorrect documentation can be significantly reduced.

[0082] In Fig. 4 A procedure 100 is visualized with further details. Via a in Fig. 3On 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, which is provided by the computer 31. A project selection 302 can also be made via the user interface 32, through which, for example, an installation template 200 for a desired project is loaded. This makes it possible to initiate a process 303 for the user to be guided through the installation of machine 1 by means of at least one installation instruction. Optionally, after the process 303 begins, a display 304 of the last executed step can be shown, for example, the last installation instruction and / or another instruction for the installation. First, the user can identify a component 4 305, for example, by...A detection device 22, such as a handheld scanner, is used to scan an identification means 12 on component 4. Based on the scanned identification means 12, the identifier 11 can then be determined and transmitted to the computer 31 and / or a device 30 for data processing. Using the received identifier 11 and the installation specification 200, an installation location for component 4 can then be identified where the component 4 is to be connected. For this purpose, the installation specification 200 includes, for example, an electrical connection diagram 200 in which various components 4 are assigned to installation locations. The installation instructions then inform the user which of the components 4 has been identified for which installation location or locations in the installation specification 200. The installation proposal is displayed visually in the connection diagram 200.The user can then establish a connection 306 between component 4 and the bus system. Based on the installation specification 200, confirmation 307 of the correct assembly can be provided. Subsequently, at least partially automated documentation 308 of the correct assembly and documentation 309 of the completion of the work step in the installation specification 200 is possible. This can be done, for example, by displaying 310 in a machine overview with a green check mark or by showing the relevant connection in an electrical circuit diagram and displaying it to the user via the user interface 32. A component 312 can then be identified again.By guiding the user, especially the worker, during the installation of the electrical automation technology and by automatically checking whether a suitable component has been properly connected, a faultless manufacture of the system to be installed can be ensured.

[0083] The user can then establish a connection between the component and an installation element, and subsequently a device such as an actuator, hub, and / or sensor (not shown). Following this, at least partially automated documentation of the correct assembly and completion of this step is possible in installation specification 200. This can be done, for example, by displaying a green checkmark in a machine overview or by showing the relevant connection in an electrical circuit diagram, and then presenting it to the user via user interface 32. These steps essentially correspond to steps 307 to 311.

[0084] System 2 may further comprise at least one information interface to provide the process steps of a process 100. This at least one information interface may include at least one of the following information interfaces for transmitting information: Between System 2 and the user, in particular a worker and / or a planner and / or a programmer, e.g. for transmitting work instructions and / or project statuses and / or for optimizing planning; Between the user and System 2, e.g. for transmitting acknowledgments of the completed work steps and / or comments on the completed work steps; Between System 2 and the components 4; Between System 2 via a component 4 to one or more devices 5 such as actuators and / or sensors; Between System 2 via a component 4 to a hub 6.

[0085] The transmission of information can be carried out as a bidirectional information transfer between system 2 and components 4. This can be done without the individual components 4 being connected to a control system of machine 1 (PLC 8) and / or pre-configured for their future tasks in machine 1.

[0086] In another example, during machine installation, after user login 301, the user scans or captures the identifier 11 of a component 4 using a scanner 22 as a reading device 22. The identifier 11 includes, for example, a serial and / or article number 11 of the component 4. Based on the identifier 11 or the serial and / or article number 11, an installation location 201 is assigned and selected in the installation specification 200, for example, in a wiring diagram 200. The selected installation location 201 can correspond to an installation location 201 that was assigned a corresponding serial and / or article number by a planner during a planning phase of the installation.In other words, after receiving identifier 11, the system analyzes whether a serial and / or article number matching the scanned identifier 11 exists in the installation specification 200 at one or more installation locations 201. If the matching serial and / or article number is found, the installation location or the multiple selected installation locations 201 are displayed to the user as an installation suggestion. The user can then connect component 4 according to the installation suggestion at the selected installation location 201 or at the selected location from the multiple installation locations 201. Subsequently, a serial number and / or a MAC address are assigned to components 4, 5, and 6 and documented and stored in the connection diagram. This uniquely assigns the connected component 4 to the installation location 201.

[0087] Furthermore, it is possible to assign a name, an application-specific tag, or other identifiers to components 4, 5, and 6, in particular a connection module 4, a hub 6, or a sensor 5 and / or actuator 5, especially an IO-Link device. After connecting component 4, the user can now also access the technical properties of the connected component 4. This access is enabled, for example, by a stored product database, which is communicatively connected to the installation specification 200 via an interface. The product database contains products and their respective technical properties and can provide this information via the interface. The products can be listed in the product database by serial and / or article numbers, for example, from different components 4 and / or installation elements 10.Thus, the user can access the technical properties of the component based on the assignment of the component's serial and / or article number to the installation location 201. Optionally, the technical properties can be subsequently assigned to an installation element 10 or cable 10 as an identifier 11, for example, as a machine-readable code. This assignment can be accomplished by placing or affixing the identifier to the installation element.

[0088] In another example, the user can scan the identifier 11 of a component 4 to view its technical properties. They can then initiate a search by system 2 in a product database for an installation element or device that at least partially meets the technical properties or requirements, and subsequently output installation information for it. Optionally, the user can also read the identifier of a component 4 or an installation element.By comparing the displayed technical properties of component 4 and the installation location 201, installation information can be generated. This information indicates to the user whether the scanned component 4 is technically suitable for installation location 201 and / or whether it at least partially meets the technical requirements and / or whether it fulfills more than the technical properties required at installation location 201. For example, if an installation element or device such as an actuator and / or sensor is to be connected to component 4, the connection between the installation element and component 4 can be established based on the aforementioned comparison of the technical information of component 4 and the installation element or device.

[0089] After logging in (301), the user may use the graphical user interface (32) to access an installation specification (200), specifically a connection diagram (200), to verify tasks performed by one or more users. This may occur, for example, after the installation of a machine, during maintenance, and / or inspection. The user may use the scanner (22) or camera (22) to read the identifier (11) of a component (4). Technical information about the component (4), such as a serial number and / or MAC address, may then be displayed. Furthermore, based on the retrieved identifier, technical characteristics of the component (4) installed on the machine may be displayed.

[0090] It is also possible for the aforementioned steps to be performed, at least partially, remotely from a computer connected to machine 1. The user can then read the identifier 11 of an installation element 10 connected to component 4, whereupon the technical properties of the installation element 10 connected to component 4 are displayed on computer 32. System 2 can then, for example, compare the respective technical properties of component 4 and the connected installation element 10 and check or validate whether the properties match or whether one or more technical properties differ. This allows for easy verification of potential installation errors as part of quality assurance and enables the user to initiate corrective actions regarding the installation using System 2.The user can then, for example, document and store a label and installation information as a reference for the selected installation location. Furthermore, they can create corresponding installation instructions, such as a corrective task for eliminating the installation error, which another user can then execute after verification.

[0091] Although some aspects related to a device have been described, it is clear that these aspects also constitute a description of the corresponding process, with each element or device corresponding to a process step or a feature of a process step. Similarly, aspects described in connection with a process step also constitute a description of a corresponding block, element, or feature of a corresponding device.

[0092] Embodiments of the invention can be implemented on a computer system. The computer system can be a local computer device (e.g., a personal computer, laptop, tablet computer, or mobile phone) with one or more processors and one or more storage devices, or a distributed computer system (e.g., a cloud computer system with one or more processors and one or more storage devices distributed across different locations, such as a local client and / or one or more remote server farms and / or data centers). The computer system can comprise any circuit or combination of circuits. In one embodiment, the computer system can comprise one or more processors of any type. The term "processor" as used herein can refer to any type of computing circuit, e.g.,a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computing) microprocessor, a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing) microprocessor, a VLW (Very Long Instruction Word) microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a multi-core processor, an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or any other type of processor or processing circuit. Other types of circuitry that may be included in the computer system could be a custom-designed 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 like 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 comprise one or more storage elements suitable for the specific 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 discs (CDs), flash memory cards, digital video discs (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 into and receive information from the computer system.

[0093] Some or all of the process steps can 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 process steps can be performed by such a device.

[0094] Depending on specific implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention can be implemented in hardware or in software. The implementation can be carried out using a non-transferable storage medium such as a digital storage medium, for example, a floppy disk, DVD, Blu-ray disc, 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 execute the respective method. Therefore, the digital storage medium can be computer-readable.

[0095] Some embodiments include 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.

[0096] In general, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a computer program product with program code, wherein the program code serves to carry out one of the methods when the computer program product runs on a computer. The program code can, for example, be stored on a machine-readable medium.

[0097] Other embodiments include the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein, which is stored on a machine-readable medium. In other words, one embodiment of the present invention is therefore a computer program with program code for carrying out one of the methods described herein, when the computer program runs on a computer.

[0098] Another embodiment is a storage medium (or a data carrier or a computer-readable medium) on which the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein is stored when executed by a processor. The data carrier, digital storage medium, or 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.

[0099] Another embodiment is a data stream or a sequence of signals that represents the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein. The data stream or signal sequence can, for example, be designed so that it can be transmitted via a data communication connection, e.g., via the Internet.

[0100] Another embodiment comprises a processing means, e.g. a computer or a programmable logic device, configured or adapted to perform one of the methods described herein.

[0101] Another embodiment comprises a computer on which the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein is installed.

[0102] Another embodiment of the invention comprises a device configured to transmit a computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein to a receiver (e.g., electronically or optically). The receiver may be, for example, a computer, a mobile device, a storage device, or the like. The device or system may, for example, include a file server for transmitting the computer program to the receiver.

[0103] In some embodiments, a programmable logic device (e.g., a field-programmable gate array) can be used to perform some or all of the functions of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, a field-programmable gate array can cooperate with a microprocessor to perform one of the methods described herein. In general, the methods are preferably performed by any hardware device. List of reference symbols

[0104] 1 Machine, Plant 2 System 3 Master Module 4 Component, Connection Module, Module, Switch 5 Device, Sensor, Actuator 6 Hub 8 Control Device, PLC 9 Control Cabinet 10 Installation element 11 Identifier 12 Identification means, machine-readable code 13 Power supply 20 Computer program 21 Bus system 22 Detection device 30 Device 31 Computer 32 User interface 33 Data storage 41 Display element 42 Connection point, slot 100Procedure 101First process step 102Second process step 103Third process step 104Fourth process step 200Installation specification 201Installation location 301 User login 302 Project selection 303 Start of instructions 304 Display of last executed step 305 Identification of a component, in particular a connection module 306 Connection between component and bus system established 307 Confirmation of correct assembly 308 Documentation of correct assembly 309 Documentation of work step completed 310 Display of machine overview 311 Identification of a component

Claims

1. A method (100) for a computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized components (4) of a machine (1), comprising: Receiving (101) an identifier (11) of a component (4), Providing (102) an installation specification (200), which specifies an assignment of the component (4) to one or more installation locations (201) of the machine (1); Identifying (103) at least one installation suggestion for the installation of the component (4) based on the provided installation specification (200) and the received identifier (11), wherein the installation location (201) or the plurality of installation locations (201) are selected based on an evaluation, wherein the selected installation location (201) or the plurality of selected installation locations (201) are indicated by the at least one installation suggestion; and Initiating (104) an output of at least one installation information based on the at least one identified installation suggestion, wherein identifying (103) the at least one installation suggestion comprises the following steps: Determining at least one technical property of the component (4) based on the received identifier (11); Determining at least one technical requirement of the at least one installation location (201) for the component (4) based on the installation specification (200) provided; Performing the evaluation, in which it is compared whether the at least one technical property of the component (4) fulfills the at least one technical requirement for the respective installation location (201); Selecting the installation location(s) (201) for which the fulfillment of the requirement is determined.

2. The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one installation information comprises an installation instruction for assisting a user in the installation, wherein initiating (104) the output comprises at least one of the following steps: Initiating a display of the at least one selected installation location (201) for the component (4) on a user interface (32) of a computer (31), wherein the user interface (32) visualizes a digital twin of at least a part of the machine (1), and visualizes a topology and / or a mechanical and / or an electrical connection diagram of the part of the machine (1); Initiating a display of the at least one selected installation location (201) of the component (4) by means of augmented reality; Initiating an output of the installation instruction as an instruction for the user to use a desired installation location (201) from a list of the plurality of selected installation locations (201) for the installation and / or to mount the component (4) at the installation location (201); Initiating an acoustic output of the installation instruction; Initiating a graphical display of the installation instruction, Initiating a graphical display of a list of the multiple selected installation locations (201) based on the installation suggestion.

3. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one installation information is used for the computer-aided installation at least in that the installation information comprises an indication of the at least one installation location (201) at which a connection of the component (4) to a further component (4) and / or an installation element (10) such as a cable is possible, wherein the method (100) comprises the following further step: Detecting a connection state of the component (4) to determine whether the connection has been established, wherein detecting the connection state comprises Receiving an installation message based on an input from the user and / or from the component (4), where the received installation message indicates that the connection of the component (4) has been established.

4. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method (100) comprises the following further steps: Verifying the selected installation location (201) of the component (4) based on the received identifier (11) and the installation specification (200), wherein a marking for the installation specification (200) is stored depending on the verification, and the subsequent step is carried out in the event of a positive verification: Storing the marking of the installation location (201) as the correctly selected installation location (201) in the installation specification (200); whereby at least one of the following steps is carried out in the event of a negative verification: Storing a marking of the installation location (201) as a changed selected installation location (201) in the installation specification (200), and: Initiating a correction of the selected installation location (201) according to the installation specification (200).

5. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one installation information comprises an installation instruction for assisting a user in a reconstruction of the machine (1), wherein initiating the output comprises at least the following step: Initiating an output of an installation sequence by means of the at least one installation information for the installation of the machine (1).

6. The method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the installation information comprises an installation configuration and / or an installation documentation, for a disassembly and / or a reconstruction of the machine (1), which is stored in a data memory (33) and / or transmitted to the component (4).

7. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the requirement is a requirement for the installation, for a connection of the component (4) at the at least one installation location (201).

8. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the following step is provided: Selecting the installation location or locations (201) for which only a partial fulfillment of the requirement is determined, wherein an installation instruction is generated with an indication of actions and / or instructions to nevertheless perform the installation of the component (4) at the installation location (201); and / or whereby a ranking list of the selected installation locations (201) is determined depending on the comparison.

9. The method (100) according to claim 8, wherein determining the at least one technical property of the component (4) further comprises: Reading the technical property from a database; and / or wherein the determination of the at least one technical requirement comprises: Determining a marking in the installation specification (200), the marking correlating with predetermined technical properties; Reading the specified technical properties from a database using the marking to determine the technical requirements; wherein the method (100) comprises at least one of the following further steps: Generating a further identifier for the component (4) to indicate that the specific component (4) has been installed at the installation location (201); Extending the installation specification (200) by the identifier (11) and / or by a further specification of the component (4) assigned to the selected installation location (201), which is used for the installation of the component (4) by a user.

10. The method (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following specifications is received to create a digital twin of the component (4) based on the received identifier (11) and the selected installation location (201): Component type, machine type, plant type, user, designation, name, station name, timestamp such as date and time, installation duration, address in a bus system (21), IO-Link application specific tag, equipment identifier, port assignment, port configuration, temperature, humidity, acceleration, emissions, current project status at installation, deviation from plan and / or reason.

11. The method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a configuration of the component (4) is performed based on the identifier (11) in order to transfer the component (4) from a base-configured state to a state with extended configuration for functional actuation by means of the control device (8).

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the identifier (11) comprises an identifier and / or a type of the component (4) and / or at least one technical property of the component (4).

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation for selecting the at least one installation location (201) comprises the following further method step: Simulating the technical characteristics of the component (4) of the at least one selected installation location (201) with respect to an influence on a functionality specified in the installation specification (200), thereby providing a result of the simulation with respect to a suitability and / or operability of the component (4) for the selected installation location (201); wherein initiating an output of at least one installation information comprises the following step: Initiating an output of a recommended action as a suggestion for the user to mount an alternative component (4) at the at least one selected installation location (201) based on the result of the simulation.

14. A computer program (20), comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer (30), cause the computer to perform the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. An apparatus (30) for data processing, comprising means for performing the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.