METHOD FOR COMPUTER-ASSISTED INSTALLATION OF SPATIALLY DECENTRALIZED ELECTRICAL 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 electrical 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. DE 10 2016 107560 discloses a life cycle management system for plant components. EP 1 383 061 discloses a method for creating a plant concept from a number of plant components. EP 3 244 286 discloses a method for installing physical units.

[0003] Therefore, the object of the invention is to provide a computer-aided method and system to enable simpler, faster and safer installation of electrical components, thereby at least partially overcoming the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0004] The foregoing problem is solved by a method, system, computer program and a device for data processing according to the independent patent claims.

[0005] Further features and details of the invention can be found in the respective dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0006] The invention relates in particular to a method for a computer-aided, in particular electrical, installation of spatially decentralized and / or electrical components of a machine, in particular of a plant.

[0007] 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.

[0008] 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.

[0009] The electrical components can include connection modules that enable decentralized and modular connections between installation elements. Decentralized in this context means that the connection modules at least partially replace a central control cabinet. While each module provides only a portion of the machine's connections, these connections are made decentrally within the field. In a centralized topology, such as a centralized control cabinet concept, the connection is typically a point-to-point connection, meaning the starting point, the connection, and the endpoint are clearly defined. In contrast, decentralized applications allow, and often necessitate, the arrangement or connection of multiple components between the starting point and the endpoint. In this case, the connection can be described as a module-to-module or module-to-hub point connection.In principle, a machine may include, for example, the following components: devices such as actuators and / or sensors, connection modules, installation elements, e.g. for cabling.

[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: Providing an installation reference, in particular a historical installation, which specifies the assignment of at least one installation element, preferably a cable and / or a component, and at least one electrical component, preferably in the form of a connection module for connection with the installation element and other installation elements, for the installation; providing a plant specification that is specific for segments of the machine, wherein the segments preferably divide the machine functionally and / or spatially, wherein the segments can accordingly be considered as different parts of the machine; generating at least one installation information to support a user, in particular a worker or planner or installer, for the (computer-aided) installation based on the provided installation reference and the provided plant specification.

[0011] This has the advantage of enabling an automated assembly and / or documentation system. This allows for simpler, faster, and more error-free installation, particularly regarding cabling. This optimization can preferably be achieved by providing at least one piece of installation information in the form of installation instructions for the user. This at least one piece of installation information can include at least one machine-specific installation instruction based on the installation reference, preferably historical reference machines. The at least one piece of installation information can also include the specification and / or initiation of at least one machine-specific support measure. Furthermore, machine-specific output of the installation instructions on the machine and / or in the digital twin can be possible.

[0012] Information such as the installation reference and / or the system specification and / or an installation guideline can be provided, for example, via at least one interface.

[0013] The installation specifications can include, for example, the system specifications and, optionally, further information about the mechanical and / or electrical design of the machine. The installation specifications, and preferably the system specifications, can include, for example: mCAD data (e.g., mechanical arrangement of components, actuators, sensors, and modules, as well as their mechanical functionalities and the machine's appearance) and / or eCAD data (e.g., electrical wiring specifications to ensure the functionality of the components, signal lines, and supply lines) and / or supplementary content (such as scans of the machine or system components) and / or system environment data. The provided information can be stored in a data repository after it has been imported. Furthermore, the data repository(ies) can contain at least one historical reference project, which can be viewed as a whole or as sub-projects, i.e.,Project segments are stored as an installation reference. The installation reference can also include guidelines for installation activities, which are stored in the same or a separate data store.

[0014] It is possible that at least one piece of installation information includes an installation plan, and preferably a flowchart. This installation plan can be generated from the multitude of design data, e.g., from the installation instructions and / or system specifications, to provide the user with appropriate support. Traditionally, a user has access to the mechanical and / or structural design of the machine (e.g., a plan of the mechanical arrangement of the elements or the machine's appearance) and the electrical plan (a plan of the component wiring). Based on this information, the user can then decide how best to connect these sub-plans. The generated installation plan, however, can automatically link these sub-plans and, if necessary, also include the connector and, if applicable, the cable routing. This can be accompanied by further support measures, e.g.,...Information on the ideal installation can be provided to the user through an indicator light on the connection module and / or a 3D animation. Once all the necessary information is gathered, the installation plan can be generated, for example, based on an I / O list and / or a diagram of the mechanical and / or structural layout. This can involve, for example, a simulation of the installation and preferably the wiring, taking into account specific optimization options (e.g., ease of maintenance) or customer-specific requirements (e.g., aesthetic preferences). An artificial intelligence algorithm can also be used to automatically scan the machine and generate a suitable installation sequence.

[0015] To facilitate installation, it is preferable to inform the user which cable to use at each step. Since the arrangement of, for example, two identical sensors is known based on the system specifications, installation guidelines, and / or installation plan, but they are to be configured differently, the sensor that is to be connected to a specific connection module via a cable (wire / connector combination) can be scanned. This allows the cable to be "taught" and this information transferred to the documentation. This, in turn, enables the selection of the correct components.

[0016] The assignment can be, for example, an assignment within the machine's topology and / or an assignment for the interconnection of components and / or installation elements. For this purpose, a digitized circuit diagram, in particular a connection diagram and / or equipment identification, can be used.

[0017] 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 employ the method according to the invention by having the method provided 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 to carry out the process steps according to the invention. 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, three, or four users. Several installation elements may be provided for the machine's installation. Each of these installation elements may be assigned an identifier by which it can be uniquely identified. The identifier can be information that can be processed digitally, for example. The respective installation element can have the identifier by having a physical means of identification provided and / or attached to it. The installation elements may 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 machine's installation using the identifier. One or more pieces of information about the installation element can be assigned to the identifier. 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, or at least one of the documentation specifications described in more detail below. Digitally storing the at least one piece of information assigned to the identifier thus makes it possible to create a digital twin of the installation element. In this way, passive smartification of the installation element can be enabled.In particular, the installation elements are used to operate machine devices such as actuators and / or sensors, i.e., preferably to control and / or read data. 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 installation elements and components. For this purpose, the control device may be electrically connected to the components.

[0018] Preferably, the installation element can comprise a cable and / or a component, wherein the cable can have at least or exactly one connector, and preferably can be terminated at one end, i.e., having a female or male plug at one end and an open end at the other. Alternatively, the cable can also be terminated at both ends, i.e., having a female or male plug at each end.

[0019] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that generating the at least one installation information comprises the following steps: Selecting at least one of the segments, in particular at least one system component of the machine, based on the system specification; comparing the at least one selected segment with at least one reference segment, in particular at least one reference component, of the provided installation reference based on a specified installation instruction, in particular guideline; providing the at least one installation information based on the comparison.

[0020] This allows for the advantageous consideration of installation-related segments for the generated installation information. In this way, a suitable segment can be selected for the project to be implemented, e.g., the occupancy of a cable carrier. Selection can be performed, for example, by a selection unit. Comparison can be performed, for example, by a comparison unit, in order to compare the results of the selection unit with historical projects or project segments of the installation reference stored in a data repository, taking into account the guidelines for installation activities.

[0021] Another possibility is that comparing at least one selected segment includes the following steps: Analyzing several reference segments of the provided installation reference with regard to their suitability for the selected segment, wherein the reference segments each represent a part, preferably an assembly, of the machine, selecting a suitable reference segment for the selected segment from the analyzed reference segments based on the analysis, and comparing the selected segment with the selected reference segment based on the specified installation instructions.

[0022] This has the advantage of enabling faster and more efficient selection of a suitable segment, taking installation regulations into account. The analysis can be performed, for example, by an initial analysis unit, which preferably checks historical projects or project segments for their suitability and selects a suitable historical project or project segment for each segment of the current project. A recombination unit can then, if necessary, generate instructions for the procedure and cabling based on the results of the analysis unit. Optionally, a second analysis unit can identify the support measures, which can be displayed directly on the connection modules and / or the machine or in the digital twin. A control unit can also be provided to output the support measures.

[0023] Furthermore, the invention may provide that the provision of the at least one installation information includes the following steps: Identifying installation instructions based on comparison, analyzing each identified installation instruction with regard to its suitability as an installation instruction for the selected segment, and selecting at least one suitable installation instruction from the analyzed installation instructions based on the analysis.

[0024] This allows a suitable approach to be generated for a current machine and especially plant project, segment by segment and based on the installation reference, preferably historical project reference data, and, if necessary, support measures can be displayed either directly on the machine components or in the digital twin, depending on the machine.

[0025] According to a further advantage, the procedure may also include the following step: initiating the output of the selected installation instructions for the user. Furthermore, it may be possible that initiating the output of the selected installation instructions includes at least one of the following steps: Initiating a display of the selected installation instructions on a computer user interface, preferably a portable computer, wherein the user interface preferably visualizes a digital twin of at least one part of the machine, and particularly preferably visualizes a mechanical and / or electrical structure and / or electrical connection diagram of the part of the machine; initiating a display of the selected installation instructions at a connection point, in particular a slot, of the electrical component; initiating an output of the selected installation instructions as an instruction for the user to connect the installation element to a specific connection point of the electrical component, wherein the connection point is preferably determined based on an electrical and / or mechanical installation specification, in particular based on the ECAD and / or MCAD data; initiating a display of a connection point.in particular, a slot, the electrical component for the installation element, by means of augmented reality based on the selected installation instructions, initiating an acoustic output, in particular a voice output, of the selected installation instructions.

[0026] This allows the user to be immediately informed via the installation instructions how the installation element should be installed. For example, the indicator light can illuminate to show the connection point on the component where the installation element is to be connected. Furthermore, the indicator light can show whether a connection point is correctly or incorrectly assigned. The component can have several indicator lights, each corresponding to a specific connection point, for example, by placing them adjacent to each other on a connection element.

[0027] It is also possible that an identifier, particularly a digital one, of an installation element is received, preferably by a detection device, which has previously read a physically present identification means, such as a machine-readable code, and generated the identifier based on the read identification means. Furthermore, the installation specification can define the assignment of the installation element to a connection with an electrical component, such as a connection module, for connection to the installation element and other installation elements. The electrical component can then be identified based on the installation specification, preferably by querying the electrical component from the installation specification using the identifier, preferably from a list and / or database of the installation specification.Furthermore, an output of at least one installation information can be initiated based on the received identifier and the identified component, preferably comprising a visual and / or acoustic output to a user.

[0028] The connection point, for example a connection port, which is designated according to the installation specifications for connecting the installation element with the received identifier, can be queried from the installation specifications using the received identifier. The installation specifications may allow for electronic querying, e.g., using a database and / or a list and / or the like.

[0029] The display of the connection point on the user interface can, for example, include a graphical representation of the component's connection points, with the connection point intended for connecting the installation element with the received identifier being graphically highlighted.

[0030] 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.

[0031] Augmented reality (AR) can be used, for example, by a user wearing virtual reality (VR) 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 could include, for example, highlighting the connection point if the physical connection point of the component is visible in the camera image.

[0032] 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 that announces the connection designation of the connection point.

[0033] A further advantage can be achieved within the scope of the invention if the provided installation reference includes at least partially one or more of the following reference data: first reference data relating to a mechanical arrangement of a reference plant, in particular MCAD data; second reference data relating to an electrical wiring of a reference plant, in particular ECAD data; third reference data comprising one or more images, preferably scans, of an installed machine or plant components; fourth reference data comprising plant environment data.

[0034] The reference data provided in each case ensures faster installation. Advantageously, the invention may provide that the method comprises at least one of the following further steps: Initiating the storage of the generated at least one installation information as an executed installation, initiating the storage of the generated at least one installation information as a further part of the provided installation reference.

[0035] This has the advantage that installation information can be permanently available and that the newly generated installation information can be provided for further analysis or comparison. Preferably, within the scope of the invention, the system specification may include a topological arrangement of the electrical components in which the electrical components are interconnected.

[0036] This allows the user to more quickly and easily identify or locate necessary installation information.

[0037] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous that the provided installation reference includes at least one installation configuration and / or at least one installation document, which is stored in a data storage device and / or transferred to the electrical component. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible that the at least one generated installation information includes at least one installation configuration and / or at least one installation document, which is stored in a data storage device and / or transferred to the electrical component. The storage of the at least one installation document can take place in the various documents, such as the circuit diagram or the connection diagram. Automation of the documentation can ensure that the storage occurs in the correct location. A person performing the respective step can then, if necessary, access these storage locations.Just acknowledge receipt. At least one installation document should include at least one of the following pieces of information: Which component was used, on which machine and at which location on the machine was the specific component installed, by whom and when was it connected, to which port was the cable connected, how was it connected, was the component connected correctly, were there any deviations from the diagram?

[0038] Documentation can also be created using components, and especially connection modules, 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 connection modules and the integration of all relevant information, the system can advantageously be used to guide the user during the installation of automation technology.

[0039] Optionally, the process can be fully automated. This reliably avoids errors that can occur when manually entering installation documentation.

[0040] Furthermore, it is advantageous if, within the scope of the invention, the provided installation reference includes a predefined specification for a modular machine structure, in particular for a connection of the installation elements in the form of cables and / or components by means of the electrical component in the form of connection modules, preferably including an electrical connection diagram.

[0041] It can be advantageous if, within the scope of the invention, a digital twin of the machine is generated and displayed based on the plant specification, wherein the generated at least one piece of installation information is represented in the displayed digital twin.

[0042] This has the advantage that the user can use the installation information more easily and quickly by displaying it in digital form, in order to carry out the installation or to identify the installation location.

[0043] The invention also relates to a system for the computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized electrical components of a machine, comprising a data processing device and means for carrying out the steps of the method according to the invention. Furthermore, the system can include a data storage device for providing the installation reference and system specifications. Thus, the system according to the invention offers the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to a method according to the invention.

[0044] 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.

[0045] Furthermore, a device for data processing, 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 capable of communicating with the components, in particular modules, of the machine, and in particular the system. Brief description of the drawings

[0046] 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

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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 electrical 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.

[0049] In Fig. 3The figures show parts of a system 2 according to exemplary embodiments of the invention, which can be used for the computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized electrical 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 of an installation element 10, preferably a cable 11 or a component 11. Furthermore, the system 2 can have at least one electrical component 4, preferably in the form of a connection module 4 for connecting 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.

[0050] The identifier 11 can be encoded in a machine-readable code 12 assigned to, and in particular arranged on, the installation element 10, 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.

[0051] 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, wherein the bidirectional communication can be based on a communication protocol for a fieldbus system, in particular on a ProfiNet, 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] In Fig. 4 A method 100 according to exemplary embodiments of the invention is visualized with further details. Via a Fig. 3 On the computer 31 shown, such as a tablet or laptop, a user can first perform a user login 301. For this, the user can use a graphical user interface 32, which is provided by the computer 31. Also via the user interface 32, a project selection 302 can be made, which, for example, loads an installation template 200 for a desired project. 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.

[0054] Optionally, after the start 303, a description 304 of the last executed step can be displayed, e.g., the last installation instruction and / or another instruction for the installation. First, an installation element 10 can be identified 305 by the user, whereby the user uses, for example, a detection device 22 such as a handheld scanner to scan an identification means 12 on the installation element 10. 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. Based on the received identifier 11 and the installation specification 200, the electrical component 4 and its connection point 42, to which the installation element 10 is to be connected, can then be identified. For this purpose, the installation specification 200 includes, for example,A matrix in which various installation elements 10 are assigned to components 4. The user can then be informed by the installation instructions which component 4 has been identified. For example, an indicator element 41 on component 4 lights up. This can be enabled by a signal transmission 306 from the data processing device 30 to component 4. Subsequently, the user can establish a connection 307 between the installation element 10 and the component. Based on the installation specification 200, confirmation 308 of the correct assembly can be provided. Subsequently, at least partially automated documentation 309 of the correct assembly and documentation 310 of the completion of the work step in the installation specification 200 is possible. This can be done, for example, by displaying 311 in a machine overview with a green check mark or, for example, by...This is done by displaying the affected connection in a circuit diagram and showing it to the user via the user interface 32. Subsequently, an installation element 312 can 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, error-free assembly of the system can be ensured.

[0055] In Fig. 5 Figure 100 is an embodiment of a method 100 according to the invention for a computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized electrical components 4 of a machine 1, in particular a system 1, is visualized.

[0056] According to a first process step 101, an installation reference 210, in particular a historical installation, is provided which specifies an assignment of at least one installation element 10, preferably a cable and / or a component, and at least one electrical component 4, preferably in the form of a connection module 4 for connection with the installation element 10 and further installation elements 10, for the installation.

[0057] Subsequently, according to a second process step 102, a plant specification 220, which is specific to segments of machine 1, may be provided. Then, according to a third process step 103, at least one installation information 230 may be generated to support a user, in particular a worker, planner or installer, for the installation based on the provided installation reference 210 and the provided plant specification 220.

[0058] Furthermore, generating 103 of the at least one installation information 230 can include selecting at least one of the segments, in particular at least one system component of the machine, based on the system specification 220, and comparing the at least one selected segment with at least one reference segment of the provided installation reference 210 based on a predefined installation instruction. Subsequently, the at least one installation information 230 can be provided based on the comparison.

[0059] Comparing the at least one selected segment can include analyzing several reference segments of the provided installation reference 210 with regard to their suitability for the selected segment, wherein the reference segments each represent a part, preferably an assembly, of the machine 1. Subsequently, a reference segment suitable for the selected segment can be selected from the analyzed reference segments based on the analysis, and the selected segment can be compared with the selected reference segment according to the specified installation instructions.

[0060] To provide at least one piece of installation information 230, it is possible to identify installation instructions based on comparison, analyze each identified installation instruction with regard to its suitability as an installation instruction for the selected segment, and select at least one suitable installation instruction from the analyzed installation instructions based on the analysis.

[0061] Furthermore, procedure 100 may include initiating the output of the selected installation instructions for the user. Initiating the output of the selected installation instructions may involve initiating a display of the selected installation instructions on a screen in Fig. 3The user interface 32 of a computer 31, preferably a portable computer 31, is shown, wherein the user interface 32 preferably visualizes a digital twin of at least one part of the machine 1, and particularly preferably visualizes a mechanical and / or electrical structure and / or electrical connection diagram of the part of the machine 1. Furthermore, the user interface 32 can initiate a display of the selected installation instructions on a computer 31, preferably a portable computer 31, wherein the user interface 32 preferably visualizes a mechanical and / or electrical structure and / or electrical connection diagram of the part of the machine 1. Fig. 3 The connection point 42 shown, in particular a slot 42, of the electrical component 4 may be provided. It is also possible to initiate an output of the selected installation instruction as an instruction for the user to direct the user to connect the installation element 10 to a specific connection point 42 of the electrical component 4.

[0062] The provided installation reference 210 may furthermore include at least partially one or more of the following reference data: first reference data relating to a mechanical arrangement of a reference plant, in particular MCAD data; second reference data relating to an electrical wiring of a reference plant, in particular ECAD data; third reference data, comprising one or more images, preferably scans, of an installed machine 1 or plant components; and fourth reference data, comprising plant environment data.

[0063] Furthermore, the provided installation reference 210 may include an installation configuration and / or installation documentation, which is contained in a Fig. 3The data storage device 33 shown is stored and / or transferred to the electrical component 4. The provided installation reference 210 can include a predefined specification for a modular design of the machine 1, in particular for the interconnection of the installation elements 10 in the form of cables and / or components by means of the electrical component 4 in the form of connection modules 4, preferably including an electrical connection diagram.

[0064] In Fig. 3Furthermore, a system 2 for a computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized electrical components 4 of a machine 1 is visualized, comprising a device 30 for data processing, including means for executing the steps of a method 100 according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. Also shown is a data storage device 33 for providing the installation reference 210 and system specification 220. A computer program 20 can also be provided, which includes commands that, when executed by a computer 30, cause the computer program 20 to execute the steps of the method 100.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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 VLIW (Very Long Instruction Word) microprocessor, a graphics processor, 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] Some embodiments of the invention include a data carrier with electronically readable control signals that are capable of cooperating with a programmable computer system so that one of the methods described herein is carried out.

[0070] 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.

[0071] Other embodiments include the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein, which is stored on a machine-readable medium.

[0072] In other words, an 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 is running on a computer.

[0073] Another 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 carrying out 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. Another embodiment of the present invention is a device as described herein comprising a processor and the storage medium.

[0074] Another embodiment of the invention is therefore 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 such that it can be transmitted via a data communication connection, e.g., via the Internet.

[0075] 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.

[0076] Another embodiment comprises a computer on which the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein is installed.

[0077] Another embodiment of the invention comprises a device or system 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.

[0078] 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

[0079] 1 Machine, Plant 2 System 3 Master Module 4 Module, Component, Connection Module 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 200 Installation instructions 210 Installation reference 220 System specification 230 Installation information 301 User login 302 Project selection 303 Start of instructions 304 Display of last executed step 305 Identification of an installation element, in particular cable 306 Signal to component to illuminate the indicator element 307 Connection between cable and module established 308 Confirmation of correct assembly 309 Documentation of correct assembly 310 Documentation of work step completed 311 Display of machine overview 312 Identification of an installation element

Claims

1. A method (100) for a computer-aided installation of spatially decentralised, electrical components (4) of a machine (1), comprising: Providing (101) an installation reference (210) which specifies an assignment of at least one installation element (10) and at least one electrical component (4), in the form of a connection module (4) for connection to the installation element (10) and further installation elements (10), for the installation; Providing (102) a system specification (220) specific to segments of the machine (1); and Generating (103) at least one installation information (230) for assisting a user for the installation based on the provided installation reference (210) and the provided system specification (220), wherein the generation (103) of the at least one installation information (230) comprises the following steps in order to take into account segments that are similar in terms of installation for the installation information to be generated: Selecting at least one of the segments; Comparing the at least one selected segment with at least one reference segment of the provided installation reference (210) according to a predetermined installation rule; and Providing the at least one installation information (230) based on the comparison, wherein the at least one installation information (230) comprises at least one machine-specific installation instruction based on the installation reference (210).

2. The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein selecting the at least one of the segments comprises: Selecting at least one system component of the machine based on the system specification (220) and that the comparison of the at least one selected segment with the at least one reference segment comprises: Comparing the at least one selected segment with the at least one reference segment in the form of at least one reference component of the provided installation reference (210) based on the predetermined installation rule in the form of a guideline.

3. The method (100) according to claim 2, wherein comparing the at least one selected segment comprises the following steps: Analysing a plurality of reference segments of the provided installation reference (210) with respect to a suitability for the selected segment, wherein the reference segments each represent a part, preferably an assembly, of the machine (1); Selecting a reference segment suitable for the selected segment from the analysed reference segments based on the analysis; and Comparing the selected segment with the selected reference segment using the predetermined installation rule.

4. The method (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein providing the at least one installation information (230) comprises the following steps: Identifying installation instructions based on the comparison; Analysing the respective identified installation instruction with regard to a suitability as an installation instruction for the selected segment; and Selecting at least one suitable installation instruction from the analysed installation instructions based on the analysis.

5. The method (100) according to claim 4, wherein the method (100) further comprises the following step: Initiating an output of the selected installation instruction for the user.

6. The method (100) according to claim 5, wherein initiating the output of the selected installation instruction comprises at least one of the following steps: Initiating a display of the selected installation instruction on a user interface (32) of a computer (31), preferably a portable computer (31), wherein preferably the user interface (32) visualises a digital twin of at least a part of the machine (1), and particularly preferably visualises a mechanical and / or electrical structure and / or electrical connection diagram of the part of the machine (1); Initiating an indication of the selected installation instruction at a connection point (42), in particular a slot (42), of the electrical component (4); Initiating an output of the selected installation instruction as an instruction for the user to connect the installation element (10) to a specific connection point (42) of the electrical component (4), wherein preferably the connection point (42) is determined based on an electrical and / or mechanical installation specification (200), in particular based on the ECAD and / or MCAD data; Initiating an indication of a connection point (42), in particular a slot (42), of the electrical component (4) for the installation element (10) by means of augmented reality based on the selected installation instruction; and Initiating an acoustic output, in particular a voice output, of the selected installation instruction.

7. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the provided installation reference (210) comprises, at least in part, one or more of the following reference data: first reference data relating to a mechanical arrangement of a reference system, in particular MCAD data; second reference data relating to the electrical cabling of a reference plant, in particular ECAD data; third reference data comprising one or more images, preferably scans, of an installed machine (1) or plant components; and fourth reference data, including plant environment data.

8. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method (100) comprises at least one of the following further steps: Initiating a storage of the generated at least one installation information (230) as an executed installation; Initiating a storage of the generated at least one installation information (230) as a further part of the provided installation reference (210).

9. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system specification (220) comprises a topological arrangement of the electrical components (4) in which the electrical components are interconnected.

10. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the provided installation reference (210) comprises an installation configuration and / or an installation documentation, which is stored in a data memory (33) and / or transmitted to the electrical component (4).

11. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the provided installation reference (210) comprises a predefined specification about a modular structure of the machine (1), in particular about an interconnection of the installation elements (10) in the form of cables and / or components by means of the electrical component (4) in the form of connection modules (4), preferably comprising an electrical connection diagram.

12. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a digital twin of the machine (1) is generated and displayed based on the system specification (220), wherein the generated at least one installation information (230) is represented in the displayed digital twin.

13. A system (2) for a computer-aided installation of spatially decentralised, electrical components (4) of a machine (1), comprising a data processing apparatus (30) comprising means for carrying out the steps of the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims; a data memory (33) for providing the installation reference (210) and system specification (220).

14. A computer program (20), comprising instructions which, when the computer program (20) is executed by a computer (30), cause the computer (30) to perform the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

15. A data processing apparatus (30), comprising means for carrying out the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.