Method for computer-assisted installation of spatially decentralized electrical components of a machine by multiple users with user-specific support

Description

Technical area

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

[0002] The complexity and variety of automation systems that need to be developed, planned, installed, maintained, and repaired is constantly increasing. In all phases of the life cycle of such a system, such as development / planning, production, commissioning, operation, and maintenance, efficient and effective support for an installer or planner through comprehensive and, above all, complete documentation is becoming increasingly important. However, the documentation available in practice, for example in the form of circuit diagrams, does not always meet this requirement. Due to poorly coordinated work processes or the use of poorly coordinated documentation tools, installation activities are not recorded sufficiently or completely. These well-known circumstances inevitably lead to gaps in the system documentation, which makes reliable maintenance or repair of a system more difficult or even impossible.in the worst case, makes it impossible.

[0003] These difficulties can be particularly dramatic in complex systems. Installing and setting up complex electrical automation technology can require many different skill sets, such as system planners, electrical engineers, installers, and system programmers, to name just a few. Especially with larger machines, simultaneous installation would often be advisable for time and logistical reasons, but is difficult to achieve in a coordinated manner using conventional approaches.

[0004] One difficulty here is that documentation of the users' respective work steps is typically decentralized, with little or no coordination, and is done on paper. Furthermore, participants often have different skill levels and working practices. These factors can further complicate handover between individuals, slowing down or even jeopardizing the installation process as a whole.

[0005] While users can typically log in to a shared IT system and access the documents required for installation, such as system plans and / or pre-printed installation instructions, and users may be offered different language versions of the instructions to choose from, this by no means solves the difficulties mentioned above.

[0006] It is therefore an object underlying the invention to provide a computer-assisted method and system to enable simpler, faster, safer, and error-free installation of electrical components, thereby at least partially overcoming the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, the aim is to provide the smoothest, most efficient, and least conflict-free, or at least least conflict-free, handling of multiple simultaneous users, e.g., installers.

[0007] EP3244286 A1 discloses a method for installing a first physical element on or in a second physical element.

[0008] US2002 / 049566A1 discloses an operating and observation system,in particular for an automation system which is formed by at least a first operating and monitoring system with extensive functionality and a large number of further operating and monitoring tools with limited functionality.

[0009] WO2022 / 020787A1 discloses a method for managing the retrofitting of electrical devices.

[0010] WO2007 / 044558A2 discloses an operations management system capable of providing a person with visual indicators to guide sequential actions. Summary of the invention

[0011] The above object is achieved by a method, system, computer program, and device for data processing according to the independent patent claims. Further features and details of the invention emerge from the respective subclaims, the description, and the drawings.

[0012] The subject matter of the invention is in particular a method for a computer-aided, in particular electrical, installation of spatially decentralized and / or electrical components of a machine, in particular of a system, by several users with user-specific support, in particular during simultaneous use.

[0013] The machine can be designed as at least one of the following machines: An automation system, a production system, a logistics system, a production line, a machining center, an industrial robot, a manufacturing system, an aggregate, an electrical device.

[0014] 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 users, such as workers and / or other user types explained below.

[0015] The electrical components can be connection modules, which enable a decentralized and modular connection of installation elements. Decentralized can refer to the fact that the connection modules at least partially replace a central control cabinet, in that the connection modules only provide some of the connections for the machine, but enable these connections to be made in a decentralized manner in the field. In a central topology, e.g. a centralized control cabinet concept, a point-to-point connection is particularly important, i.e. the start point, the connection and the end point are clearly defined. In contrast, in decentralized applications it is possible, and can often even be necessary, to arrange or connect several components between the start point and the end point. In this case we can speak of a module-module or module-hub-point connection, for example. In principle, a machine can have, for example,The following components must be provided: devices such as actuators and / or sensors, connection modules, installation elements, e.g. for cabling.

[0016] The method according to the invention can comprise the following steps, which are preferably carried out successively or in any order, whereby the steps can also be carried out automatically and / or repeatedly: Receiving an identifier, in particular a digital identifier, of an installation element, preferably a cable or a component, wherein the identifier is preferably received by a detection device which has previously read in a physically present identification means such as a machine-readable code and has generated the identifier based on the read-in identification means, Providing an installation specification, in particular a digital one, which specifies an assignment of the installation element for connection to an electrical component, preferably in the form of a connection module for connection to the installation element and further installation elements, Identifying the electrical component based on the provided installation specification, preferably by querying the electrical component from the installation specification based on the identifier,preferably from a list and / or database of the installation specification, initiating an output of at least one installation information based on the received identifier and the identified component, wherein the output preferably comprises a visual and / or acoustic output to a user. ,

[0017] The method thus enables simpler, faster, and error-free assignment of installation elements to components and can thus significantly support users in installing the machine and simplify the process. Furthermore, in this way, a support system for installation, in particular for cabling, can be provided spatially directly at the identified component for guided orientation of the respective user, in which a data processing device can execute the method steps automatically. The data processing device, in particular a data processing device according to the invention, can advantageously communicate with individual components and thus enable the output of the installation information. For this purpose, the data processing device can have at least one interface for communication.

[0018] The users can be, for example, installers and / or plant mechanics and / or electricians and / or workers and / or planners and / or mechanical designers or developers and / or electrical designers or developers and / or PLC programmers and / or commissioning engineers and / or maintenance engineers and / or machine operators. It is possible for the users to use the method according to the invention by providing the method to the users via a computer, for example, a shared computer or one computer per user. 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 term "computer" is generally understood as an umbrella term for any type of data processing device.A computer can be a PC or laptop, but also another device such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a smart watch, another wearable or the like.

[0019] It is intended that multiple users apply the method according to the invention simultaneously or at least partially simultaneously. Accordingly, the steps of a method according to the invention can also be performed multiple times and / or at least partially in parallel. For example, the steps are performed at least partially simultaneously for at least two, at least three, or at least four users.

[0020] Several installation elements can be provided for the installation of the machine. Each of these installation elements can be assigned an identifier by which the installation elements can be uniquely identified. The identifier can accordingly be information that can be processed digitally, for example. The respective installation element can have the identifier by providing and / or attaching a physical identification means to the installation element. The installation elements can be, for example, cables or components that are a functional part of the machine. The identifier advantageously comprises a unique and, in particular, one-to-one identifier. This makes it possible to uniquely identify the installation element using the identifier in connection with the machine and / or other machines and / or the installation of the machine.One or more pieces of information about the installation element can be assigned to the identifier. The at least one piece of information can comprise at least one of the following pieces of information: at least one piece of status information, the output installation information, an identifier of the identified component, and at least one of the documentation specifications described in more detail below, such as component type, machine type, system type, user, connection point designation, time stamp, date and time, installation duration, address in a bus system, IO-Link application-specific tag, equipment identification, cable length, port assignment, properties of the open cable, temperature, humidity, current project status during assembly, plan deviation, and reason. Digital storage of the at least one piece of information assigned to the identifier thus makes it possible to create a digital twin of the installation element.In this way, passive smartification of the installation element can be enabled.

[0021] Smartification is understood in particular as the addition of intelligent features to an industrial product, such as a component and / or a part and / or an installation element, such as a cable. Information technologies can enable components to process data and offer additional added value. Passive smartification can be provided as a corresponding preliminary stage using a passive intelligent component, such as an NFC chip (near-field communication, abbreviated to NFC) and / or a machine-readable code. This can create a basis for the automated recording of changes or for specific changes and their impact on the function of a machine.The unique, preferably one-to-one, identification in conjunction with access to an external database can enable the active enrichment of information and thus passive smartification.

[0022] In particular, the installation elements are used to operate, i.e., preferably control and / or read, machine devices such as actuators and / or sensors. A control device such as a PLC (programmable logic controller) can 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 can be electrically connected to the components.

[0023] Preferably, the installation element can comprise a cable and / or a component, wherein the cable can have at least or exactly one connector, and can preferably be pre-assembled on one side, i.e., having a female or male connector on one side and an open end on the other. Alternatively, the cable can also be pre-assembled on both sides, i.e., having a female or male connector on each side.

[0024] It may also be possible for the at least one piece of installation information to include user-specific installation instructions to assist one of the plurality of users, such as a worker and / or installer, during installation. The installation instructions may also include instructions for the installation, for example, step-by-step instructions.

[0025] Initiating the output may include at least one of the following steps:Initiating an activation of a display element such as a light-emitting diode on the electrical component in order to indicate a connection point, in particular a slot, for the installation element to be connected by means of the display element, wherein the activation of the display element can preferably cause the display element to light up, Initiating a display of a connection point, in particular a slot, of the electrical component for the installation element on a user interface of a computer, wherein the user interface preferably visualizes a digital twin of at least part of the machine, and preferably visualizes a mechanical and / or electrical structure of the part of the machine, Initiating a display of a connection point, in particular a slot, of the electrical component for the installation element by means of augmented reality,Initiating an output of the installation instruction as an instruction for the respective user to connect the installation element to a specific connection point of the electrical component, wherein the connection point is preferably determined based on the installation specification, Initiating an acoustic output, in particular a voice output, of the installation instruction.

[0026] This allows the respective user to be directly informed through the installation instructions how the installation element should be installed. For example, the illumination of the indicator element can indicate the connection point on the component to which the installation element is to be connected. Furthermore, the illumination of the indicator element can make it possible to indicate a correctly or incorrectly assigned connection point. For this purpose, the component can have several indicator elements that are assigned to corresponding connection points of the component, e.g., by being arranged adjacently on a connection element.

[0027] The connection point, in particular a connection port, which is provided according to the installation specification for connecting the installation element with the received identifier, can be queried, for example, using the received identifier from the installation specification. For this purpose, the installation specification can enable electronic querying, e.g., using a database and / or a list and / or the like.

[0028] The display of the connection point on the user interface may, for example, comprise a graphical representation of the connection points of the component, wherein the connection point intended for the connection of the installation element with the received identifier is graphically highlighted.

[0029] The user interface can be a graphical user interface displayed on a screen, preferably a computer. The computer can be, for example, a portable computer such as a laptop or tablet.

[0030] The display using augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) can, for example, be achieved by a user using a corresponding end device, typically in the form of a so-called VR and / or AR headset, which is often also referred to as smart glasses, head-mounted display or AR / VR glasses, to display additional information. Interaction with AR and / or VR content is also possible using an end device such as a smartphone. It is also conceivable that the user's surroundings are recorded by a camera and the camera image is processed in order to incorporate additional information into the camera image. The additional information includes, for example, highlighting the connection point if the physical connection point of the component is visible in the camera image.

[0031] If the user or at least some of the multiple users use an AR and / or VR-capable device, additional functions can be provided. For example, the user can be shown what the other users are currently doing, e.g. in which area of ​​the machine / system they are currently working. It is also possible to mark certain parts of the machine / system and / or the floor in front of it in color, e.g. with red hatching or the like, if another user is currently working there. In this way, for example, an installation element currently selected by another user can be marked. Displaying avatars representing the other users is also conceivable. Furthermore, at least part of an installation manual can be displayed to the user.As a further functionality, it may be possible to display content to the user which conveys to the user that and / or how another user (especially an experienced user) has already carried out the respective work step on another machine / system.

[0032] Furthermore, an acoustic output can also be provided, which includes, for example, controlling a loudspeaker. The acoustic output can, for example, be a voice output that speaks the connection designation of the connection point.

[0033] It can be advantageous if, within the scope of the invention, the method comprises the following further step: determining a connection state between the installation element and the electrical component in order to establish whether the connection has been established. For this purpose, for example, an electrical connection test can be carried out, which can automatically determine whether the installation element and the electrical component have an electrically conductive connection. Depending on the design, it is conceivable that an electrical circuit is not immediately closed upon connection, in particular if the installation has not yet been completed. Therefore, additional or alternative options for determining the connection state can also be provided. For example, determining the connection state can further comprise: receiving an installation message based on an input from one of the users and / or from the electrical component.The received installation message can indicate that the connection of the installation element to the electrical component, preferably to a displayed connection point of the electrical component, has been established. Accordingly, it can be checked that the connection point that was displayed has actually been connected to the installation element. It is possible that documentation is triggered when the connection has been established, e.g., through manual acknowledgment by a user and / or automatic acknowledgment by detecting the connection, for example, when both sides of a cable have been connected. The documentation can, for example, be stored as installation documentation, as described in more detail below. This documentation can be carried out repeatedly if necessary, e.g.,each time an activity is acknowledged, in order to gradually build up the installation documentation. In order to make the installation instructions visible to the user in the machine, on the one hand, and to be able to document the work performed on the component in the system, on the other hand, it is advantageous for the system, and preferably the device according to the invention, to be able to 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. Due to this circumstance, it is possible that the component does not know in advance what task it will have to perform in the future machine. This can also be referred to as "unconfigured."

[0034] A further advantage within the scope of the invention can be achieved if the method comprises the following further steps: Verifying the connection, preferably the connected connection point, based on the installation specification, preferably a predefined, digital circuit and in particular electrical connection plan, in particular to determine whether a user has correctly implemented the installation information in the form of installation instructions, wherein preferably depending on the verification an identification for the installation specification is stored, and particularly preferably in the case of a positive verification the following step is carried out: storing the identification of the connection point as a correctly connected connection point in the installation specification.

[0035] Advantageously, verification can be performed based on the determination of the connection status. This verification allows for assessing whether the respective user has correctly followed the installation instructions. The verification result can be used to store the marking in the installation specification. This allows the installation specification to be used at a later time to verify whether the installation specification was followed and / or to what extent the installation deviated from the installation specification.

[0036] Should a user deviate from the installation instructions, this often occurs for a relevant reason or occasion. Therefore, users can be provided with 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 respective user has not correctly implemented the installation instructions, at least one of the following steps can be performed: storing a label for 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, wherein an indication of the reason for the change is preferably also stored, and preferably: initiating a correction of the connection according to the installation specification and / or initiating a correction of the installation specification. The correction can, for example, comprise an adjustment of the installation specification if the new connection is justified and thus advantageously contributes to the desired installation.

[0037] Optionally, it can further be provided that the method comprises the following further step, wherein the step is preferably carried out when verifying the connection: Validating the, in particular verified, connection with regard to a complete establishment of the connection, in particular a proper screw connection and / or power and / or data connection and / or contacting, preferably by means of a measured value transmitted by an external test device, in particular a sensor or a test tool, in order to determine whether a user has complied with a specified measured value.

[0038] This advantageously ensures that the applicable or required requirements for the materials used or the connection are met, depending on the installation environment. Furthermore, this has the advantage of significantly reducing safety risks during the installation of machines. The specified measured value can be a reference value, which is compared with the transmitted measured value as the current measured value. For example, the connection can be considered correct and / or complete if the transmitted measured value meets a predefined condition, such as exceeding the reference value.

[0039] Furthermore, it can be provided that the at least one piece of installation information comprises user-specific installation instructions to assist a user in reassembling the machine, wherein initiating the output preferably comprises at least the following step: initiating an output of an installation sequence using the at least one piece of installation information for installing the machine. The installation information can, for example, comprise installation instructions that also specify an installation sequence. This simplifies installation for a user and accelerates installation, since a complex interpretation of a circuit diagram and, in particular, a connection diagram is at least partially no longer required.

[0040] According to an advantageous development of the invention, initiating the output can include initiating bidirectional communication with the identified component via a bus system. The output can be triggered, for example, by transmitting a specific message, preferably a command, to the component via the communication. For this purpose, a computer program can be executed, for example, by a data processing device connected to the bus system.

[0041] Advantageously, the invention can provide for at least one of the following specifications to be 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, system type, user, connection point designation, time stamp date and time, installation duration, address in a bus system, IO-Link application-specific tag, equipment identification, cable length, port assignment, properties of the open cable, temperature, humidity, current project status during assembly, plan deviation, and reason. The at least one specification can also be referred to as a documentation specification within the scope of this invention.

[0042] The installation message can, for example, have been generated based on a user input, where the user can have specified the at least one specification in the input. It is also possible for the specification to be determined automatically, e.g., by the component and / or a data processing device, in particular based on the received identifier. For this purpose, the at least one specification can, for example, be stored in the component and / or in the installation element.

[0043] In a further embodiment, the installation information may include an installation configuration and / or installation documentation, preferably for disassembly and / or reassembly of the machine, which is stored for documentation purposes, preferably stored in a data storage device and / or transferred to the electrical component. The data storage device may be embodied as a non-volatile data storage device to reliably enable subsequent evaluation of the installation configuration and / or the installation documentation. The installation configuration and / or the installation documentation may, for example, include the stored marking based on the verification.

[0044] A further advantage can be achieved within the scope of the invention if the installation information comprises a unique identifier which identifies the installation element and / or the identified component, wherein the installation information is stored in the installation specification, in particular in a digitized construction plan, preferably comprising ECAD and / or MCAD data, and / or wherein the installation element is selected from at least one similar installation element or a plurality of similar installation elements based on the identifier and / or the identified component is selected from at least one similar component or 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.

[0045] A further advantage within the scope of the invention can be achieved if the installation specification comprises a predefined specification regarding a modular and / or decentralized structure of the machine, in particular the system, preferably based on predefined ECAD and / or MCAD data, in particular regarding an interconnection of the installation elements in the form of cables and / or components by means of the component in the form of connection modules, preferably comprising an electrical connection plan, 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.

[0046] Furthermore, it is conceivable within the scope of the invention that a configuration of the component is carried out on the basis of the identifier in order to transfer the component from a basic configured state, in which the component is preferably configured for bidirectional communication by means of a bus system and / or functional control by a control device, preferably a PLC, is excluded, into a state with an extended configuration for functional control by the control device.

[0047] The received identifier makes it possible to identify which installation element has been (or is to be) connected to the component. This identification can be used to automate the configuration of the components required for installation, which significantly reduces the configuration effort required for a component during installation. For example, the received identifier and the installation specification are used to determine which of the components is (or will be) connected to the installation element. The component can then be configured accordingly for this installation element, so that for subsequent functional control by the control device, the control device knows that the installation element is connected to this component. This enables the control device, for example, to:, to operate at least one device of the machine, such as an actuator and / or sensor, via this component and / or the installation element. The invention also relates to a system for computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized electrical components of a machine, comprising a detection device, in particular a scanner such as a handheld scanner or a camera, for providing an identifier of an installation element, preferably a cable or a component, further comprising at least one electrical component, preferably in the form of a connection module for connection to the installation element and further installation elements, and a device for data processing, comprising means for carrying out the steps of a method according to the invention.The system according to the invention thus brings with it the same advantages as have been described in detail with reference to a method according to the invention.

[0048] Furthermore, a data processing device comprising means for executing the steps of a method according to the invention may also be the subject of the invention. The device may be adapted to communicate with the components, in particular modules, of the machine, in particular system, preferably without the modules being preconfigured and / or connected to a control device.

[0049] Furthermore, it can be provided that the identifier is encoded in a machine-readable code assigned to the installation element, in particular arranged on it, wherein the machine-readable code is machine-readable by means of the detection device.

[0050] Furthermore, it is possible for the components and a computer and / or a control device to be connected to one another via a bus system for bidirectional communication, wherein the bidirectional communication is provided on the basis of 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 in a wired manner via a bus system or wirelessly by means of Bluetooth or WLAN, on the basis of a standard according to IEEE 802.11 or on the basis of a mobile radio telecommunications standard.

[0051] 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 provides the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to a method according to the invention.

[0052] As already mentioned above, it is intended that multiple users perform the (same) process steps simultaneously and / or at least partially simultaneously. The simultaneous and / or at least partially simultaneous execution of (same) process steps by multiple users is also referred to below as a multi-user application.

[0053] The invention may also relate to a further method for computer-assisted installation of spatially decentralized electrical components of a machine, in which the installation is carried out by at least two users simultaneously and / or at least partially simultaneously.

[0054] In connection with a method according to the invention, in particular in a multi-user application and / or in the further method, a handover between the different users can be provided. In order to enable a handover between the, preferably both, users and to ensure an optimal process, a processing status of the respective user can be digitally documented automatically and in real time. In this way, the two or more users can work on different areas of the machine simultaneously without endangering the integrity of the electrical installation or having to carry out lengthy coordination processes. Furthermore, it can be provided that a user manually creates a work order for another user in order to prepare a handover. This can be the case, for example, if the current user determines that a user from a different specialist area is required for a certain work step.

[0055] Advantageously, the current status of the installation is displayed in real time. Furthermore, installation instructions can be assigned to the respective user and digitally documented. This allows relevant information to be collected during the installation process. Examples of the information collected include: ▪ A user-specific identifier and / or role (access and editing authorizations, if applicable qualification level and / or experience level), and / or ▪ A last used connecting element and / or a last used component and / or a last used part, and / or ▪ A last edited location, in particular segment, of the machine to which the last used connecting module and / or part and / or the last used component was attached, and / or ▪ A last user (unique user identifier) ​​and time of the last editing by the user, and / or; ▪ A last identified connecting element, preferably a scanned part, and a machine area for which the connecting element or part is intended.

[0056] It is intended that at least two users carry out the installation of spatially decentralized, electrical components of a machine. Each user can log in via the user interface of a computer, preferably a portable computer, and then, for example, select a work order to be processed in order to begin the installation. Selecting a work order or installation instruction locks it for the other users. Each user can log in and make the selections on their own computer. The computers are connected to each other via a network and / or to a server, for example, to synchronize the selections.

[0057] To identify an installation element suitable for installation, in particular a component or cable, each user can use a detection device, in particular a scanner or camera, as a reading device. This allows the respective user to electronically and data-wise link the reading device used to the user's current order in order to document the individual assembly progress.

[0058] It can be provided that a selected project or at least parts of it, for example at least the current installation instructions, is locked for other users while it is being processed by the user. Different degrees of locking are possible: It can be provided that the identification of an installation element, e.g. connecting element, and / or one or more electrical components or another part can initiate a locking of this component for other users. It can also be provided that all directly and / or indirectly related installation elements and / or components and / or parts can be locked for other users. Furthermore, the locking of the respective work order and / or individual areas of the decentralized machine and / or the entire installation order is possible for other users.Identifying a new installation element, component, and / or part without confirming the processing of the previously identified installation element, component, and / or part may result in the block being lifted. The user may be able to select the extent of the block.

[0059] A unique identifier can be provided for each user to identify the user. The identifier can, for example, be linked to a user name, which is provided by the user during registration. When each of the at least two users logs in using the user-specific identifier, the computer program can access the user-specific data and issue installation instructions to the user based on their skills. For first-time users of the system, only new data can be recorded or collected in order to create an appropriate profile for repeated use or subsequent installations. By documenting the time required for each installation step, standard values ​​can be determined and, based on this, users can be classified into "fast / slow / average" according to their installation skills.This allows permissions or roles to be customized for each user in advance. Furthermore, the stored data on the user's training level can be used to adjust the level of detail of the instructions. By documenting user-specific work steps, the computer program can access the last installation step performed and display it to the user.

[0060] After logging in, the installation can be started on the machine or continued on the last component, in particular a segment, of the machine that the user edited.

[0061] By identifying an installation element of a component suitable for installation, especially components and cables, using the data processing device, a new work step can be initiated if necessary. Using a topology stored in the installation specification and the electrical layout based on the ECAD data, the initiated work step can advantageously be clearly assigned to an area in the machine and within the installation plan.

[0062] After the work step has been completed, the individual assembly progress can be documented through manual and user-specific confirmation of correct assembly.

[0063] After confirming that the installation was carried out correctly, this step is saved in the system along with the user ID, so that in the event of a change of user, the latest status can be viewed and continued.

[0064] The invention may also relate to a further method for a computer-aided installation, in particular electrical, of spatially decentralized and / or electrical components of a machine, in particular of a system.

[0065] Advantages and features described in connection with the method according to the invention also apply in connection with the other methods according to the invention, and vice versa.

[0066] The further method according to the invention can comprise at least some of the following steps, which are preferably carried out successively or in any desired order, whereby the steps can also be carried out automatically and / or repeatedly and / or at least partially in parallel: Providing at least or exactly two user-specific installation specifications which specify an assignment of at least one installation element, preferably a cable or a component, as well as at least one electrical component, preferably in the form of a connection module for connecting to the installation element and other installation elements, for the installation and its functionality, Providing at least or exactly two system specifications which are for segments, e.g.Parts or locations of the machine, preferably the automation system, are specific, Optional: Providing at least or exactly one installation reference, Generating at least or exactly two user-specific installation instructions for the simultaneous support of at least two users, in particular workers or planners, for the installation of the same machine, in particular system, based on the provided installation specification and / or an installation reference and / or user-specific criteria and / or the system specification. .

[0067] In other words, installation instructions can be issued to multiple users so that the users can perform the installation at least partially simultaneously. It is possible that the installation instructions depend not only on the machine segment being installed by the respective user, but also on other user-specific criteria. For this purpose, at least one or more installation references and / or user-specific criteria can be provided.

[0068] In a further possibility, it can be provided that the generation of at least one of the user-specific installation instructions comprises the following steps: Receiving an identifier of one of the users, preferably a unique identifier, analyzing a plurality of provided installation references with regard to their suitability for the user-specific criteria of the user based on a predetermined suitability specification, in particular assembly history, assembly efficiency and access authorizations of the user, and selecting an installation instruction suitable for the user from the analyzed installation references based on the analysis, providing the at least one installation instruction based on the analysis.

[0069] A further advantage within the scope of the invention can be achieved if the generation of the at least one installation instruction comprises the following steps: Selecting at least one of the segments, in particular at least one system component, of the machine or automation system 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 predetermined installation specification, in particular a guideline, and providing the at least one installation instruction based on the comparison.

[0070] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the comparison of the at least one selected segment comprises the following steps: Analyzing several reference segments of the provided installation reference with regard to suitability for the selected segment; selecting a reference segment suitable 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 specification.

[0071] In addition, it can be provided that the provision of the at least one installation instruction comprises the following steps: Identifying installation instructions based on the comparison, analyzing the respective identified installation instruction with regard to suitability as an installation instruction for the selected segment, selecting at least one suitable installation instruction from the analyzed installation instructions based on the analysis.

[0072] A further advantage within the scope of the invention can be achieved if the further method comprises the following further steps: Receiving an identifier of an installation element, preferably a cable or a component, analyzing whether the received identifier has already been received and fully processed or is currently being actively processed by another user, In case of a positive analysis result, the following step is preferably carried out: Blocking the provision process of a user-specific installation specification, wherein in the event of a negative analysis result, the following steps are advantageously carried out: Providing a user-specific installation specification that specifies an assignment of the installation element for connection to an electrical component, preferably in the form of a connection module for connection to the installation element and further installation elements, identifying the electrical component based on the provided installation specification; and initiating an output of at least one piece of installation information based on the received identifier, the identified component, and the user information.

[0073] In the event that a component or installation element is missing, it can be provided that an installation step is selected from a complete list, a component can be added, and then confirmed as installed. This prevents a machine from being left unfinished in the event of loss, accidental destruction, damage, or malfunction.

[0074] In a further possibility, it can be provided that the at least one installation information comprises at least two installation instructions to support at least two users during the installation, wherein the initiation of the output preferably comprises at least one of the following steps: Initiating an activation of a display element on the electrical component in order to display a connection point, in particular a slot, for the installation element to be connected by means of the display element; Initiating a display of a connection point, in particular a slot, of the electrical component for the installation element on a user interface of a computer, wherein the user interface visualizes a digital model of at least part of the installation, and preferably visualizes a mechanical structure of the part of the installation; Initiating a display of a connection point, in particular a slot, of the electrical component for the installation element by means of augmented reality, Initiating an output of user-specific installation instructions as instructions for an individual orspecific user to connect the installation element to a specific connection point of the electrical component, wherein the connection point is preferably determined based on the user-specific installation specification, initiating an acoustic output, in particular a voice output, of the installation instructions. .

[0075] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the further method comprises the following further steps: Verifying the connection, preferably the connected connection point, based on the installation specification, preferably a predefined, digital electrical connection plan, in particular to determine whether a user has correctly implemented the installation information in the form of installation instructions, wherein preferably a label for the installation specification is stored depending on the verification, and Preferably, in the case of a positive verification, at least one of the following steps is carried out: storing a user identification to assign the connected connection point to the respective user, storing a time stamp to extend the user data and the installation reference, storing the identification of the connection point as a correctly connected connection point in the electrical connection plan, wherein advantageously in the case of a negative verification, at least one of the following steps is carried out: storing an identification of the connection point as a changed connected connection point in the electrical connection plan, storing an identification of the connection point as a changed connected connection point in the database and the I / O list, storing the user identification to assign the changed connected connection point to the respective user,Storing a time stamp to extend the user data and the installation reference, initiating a correction of the connection according to the electrical connection plan.

[0076] In a further possibility, it can be provided that the installation specification includes a specification about a topological arrangement of the electrical components in which the electrical components are interconnected.

[0077] A further advantage within the scope of the invention can be achieved if at least one of the following specifications is received, preferably by 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 electrical component: component type, machine type, system type, user, connection point designation, time stamp date and time, installation duration, address in a bus system, IO-Link application specific tag, equipment identification, cable length, port assignment, properties of the open cable, temperature, humidity, current project status during assembly, plan deviation and reason.

[0078] A further advantage can be achieved within the scope of the invention if the provided installation reference at least partially comprises 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 electrical cabling of a reference system, in particular ECAD data, third reference data comprising one or more images, preferably scans, of an installed automation system or system components, fourth reference data comprising system environment data, fifth reference data comprising historical user data, in particular qualification level, access authorizations, user identification and historical working speed.

[0079] A further advantage can be achieved if the method comprises at least one of the following additional steps: Initiating storage of the generated at least two installation instructions as an executed installation, initiating storage of the generated at least two installation instructions as a further part of the provided installation reference.

[0080] Likewise, a (further) system for a computer-aided installation, in particular electrical, of spatially decentralized and / or electrical components of a machine, in particular a system, can be the subject of the invention, comprising: a reading device for an identifier of an installation element, preferably a cable or a component; the electrical component, preferably in the form of a connection module for connection to the installation element and other installation elements; a data processing device comprising means for carrying out the steps of the method.

[0081] In a further possibility, it can be provided that the identifier is encoded in a machine-readable code assigned to the installation element, in particular arranged on it, wherein the machine-readable code is machine-readable by means of a reading device assigned to an installer by means of a unique identifier; and / or wherein the components and a computer and / or a control device are each connected to one another via a bus system for bidirectional communication, wherein the bidirectional communication is provided on the basis of a communication protocol based on a fieldbus, ProfiNet, EthernetIP, EtherCat or 802.3 standard and / or the bidirectional communication is provided wired via a bus system or wirelessly via Bluetooth or WLAN, based on a standard according to IEEE 802.11 or based on a mobile radio telecommunications standard. Brief description of the drawings

[0082] For a better understanding of the disclosure, reference is made to the following drawings: Fig. 1: A centralized interconnection in a machine using a control cabinet. Fig. 2: A decentralized interconnection according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 3: A schematic representation of parts of a system according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 4: A schematic representation of details of a method according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 5: A schematic representation of steps of a method according to embodiments of the invention. Description of the embodiments

[0083] Planning, installing, and setting up machines and electronic automation technology is a complex task. This applies to centralized control cabinet systems as well as to decentralized systems in which control modules are attached directly to the equipment. The corresponding processes are carried out by different people, such as system planners, electrical planners, installers, system programmers, etc. A special feature of decentralized systems is the distribution of modules at different locations within a machine compared to centralized control cabinet systems. Especially with larger machines, simultaneous installation—i.e., installation carried out simultaneously by multiple users at the same time—can be advantageous for time and logistical reasons. To ensure a smooth installation process, the work status should be digitally documented automatically, user-specifically, and in real time.Throughout the entire plant life cycle, it is important to have complete documentation of all relevant information for various reasons (such as maintenance planning, system diagnostics).

[0084] In Fig. 1 A central interconnection by means of a control cabinet 9 is shown schematically in order to compare this with a decentralized interconnection by means of spatially decentralized electrical components 4 of a machine 1 in Fig. 2 Instead of connecting all devices 5 such as sensors and actuators directly to the control cabinet 9 as in Fig. 1 shown, the decentralized interconnection in Fig. 2several components 4, in particular connection modules, can be used. These, like the control cabinet 9, enable the devices 5 to be coupled to a control device 8, such as a PLC. However, the connection modules 4 can be provided in a decentralized manner and distributed near the devices 5. The connection modules 4 thus only partially interconnect the devices 5, with the connection modules 4 together or, for example, one and / or more connection modules 4 via one and / or more hubs 6 each carrying out the entire interconnection. In order to enable the configuration and / or control of the connection modules 4 centrally, a master module 3 can be connected upstream of several of the individual connection modules 4. It is also possible for the interconnection to be further subdivided using at least one hub 6.

[0085] In Fig. 3Parts of a system 2 according to embodiments of the invention are shown, which can be provided for computer-assisted installation of spatially decentralized electrical components 4 of a machine 1. The system 2 can comprise a detection device 22, in particular a scanner 22 or a camera 22, for providing an identifier 11 of an installation element 10, preferably a cable 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 connection to the installation element 10 and further installation elements 10. A device 30 for data processing can also be part of the system 2, wherein this data processing device 30 can comprise means for carrying out the steps of a method 100 according to embodiments of the invention.

[0086] The identifier 11 can be encoded in a machine-readable code 12 assigned to the installation element 10, in particular arranged thereon, wherein the machine-readable code 12 is made machine-readable by means of the detection device 22. This allows a respective user to scan the code 12 using the detection device 22 and thus transmit the identifier 11 to the data processing device 30.

[0087] Furthermore, the components 4 and at least one computer 30, 31 and / or a control device 8 can each be connected to one another via a bus system 21 for bidirectional communication. The bidirectional communication can be provided based on a communication protocol for a fieldbus system, in particular based on a ProfiNet, Ethernet / IP, EtherCat, or 802.3 standard, and / or the bidirectional communication can be provided wired via a bus system 21 or wirelessly via Bluetooth or WLAN, based on a standard according to IEEE 802.11, or based on a mobile radio telecommunications standard. To enable operation of the component 4, the component 4 can further be connected to a power supply 13.

[0088] Furthermore, a computer program 20 is shown, which comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer 30, cause the computer 30 to carry out the steps of the method 100 according to embodiments of the invention.

[0089] In Fig. 4 and 5Method steps of method 100 are visualized. Thus, according to a first method step 101, receiving the identifier 11 of the installation element 10 can be provided. Subsequently, according to a second method step 102, providing 102 an installation specification 200 can take place, which specifies an assignment of the installation element 10 for connection to an electrical component 4, preferably in the form of a connection module 4 for connection to the installation element 10 and further installation elements 10. Then, according to a third method step 103, identifying the electrical component 4 can be carried out using the provided installation specification 200. Then, according to a fourth method step 104, initiating an output of at least one piece of installation information based on the received identifier 11 and the identified component 4 is possible.In the embodiment described here, the method 100 is applied by several users simultaneously or at least partially simultaneously.

[0090] The at least one piece of installation information may include installation instructions for user-specific support of a user during installation.

[0091] The method 100 may provide at least one of the following support options, each of which may be adapted to the capabilities of the respective user: Supporting the user with installation, especially cabling, supporting the user with documentation of the installation, supporting the user with communication with other users, supporting the user with testing / automated testing, supporting the user with disassembly, supporting the user with reassembly at the actual site, supporting engineering with planning, supporting the PLC programmer.

[0092] Initiating the output may involve initiating an activation of a Fig. 3illustrated display element 41 on the electrical component 4 in order to display a connection point 42, in particular a slot 42, for the installation element 10 to be connected via the display element 41. Alternatively or additionally, initiating the output can comprise initiating a display of a connection point 42, in particular a slot 42, of the electrical component 4 for the installation element 10 on a user interface 32 of a computer 31. The user interface 32 can visualize a digital twin of at least part of the machine 1, and preferably a mechanical and / or electrical structure of the part of the machine 1.Further alternatives or additional output options include displaying a connection point 42, in particular a slot 42, of the electrical component 4 for the installation element 10 using augmented reality and / or outputting the 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 the connection point 42 is preferably determined based on the installation specification 200. Furthermore, an acoustic output of the installation instruction can also be provided so that a user can follow the installation instruction without seeing the computer 31. For example, an identifier for the component 4 and / or the corresponding connection point 42 is output verbally.

[0093] It is also possible that the installation information includes an installation configuration and / or installation documentation, which is stored in a data memory 33 and / or transmitted to the electrical component 4.

[0094] To avoid documentation errors that can arise from manually entering information, automated storage in the system can be advantageous. For example, all information is stored in the correct location in the various installation specifications documents, such as the circuit diagram or the connection plan. The person performing the respective step then only needs to acknowledge the entries.

[0095] Relevant information that the installation documentation may include includes: Which component was used (unique, preferably one-to-one identifier)? On which machine and at which location on the machine was the specific component attached? By whom (unique identifier of the respective user) did it connect and when? To which port or connection point was the cable connected? How was the cable connected? Was the component connected correctly? Were there any deviations from the plan? What qualification level or training did the respective user have? How much time did the user require, preferably per assembly step? Which alternative component was possibly connected / attached and by whom?

[0096] The installation documentation can, for example, document at least one of the following pieces of information: User work steps with additional information on the work steps such as processing time, which machine is being used, which user, for example which installer or fitter, carried out the activities and when, which component has been wired and / or cabled, has the assembly step been completed, which port / connection point was used, are there any open cables and what are the properties of the open cable, e.g. length, ambient parameters, e.g. temperature, humidity, current project status, protection class, e.g. IP67, the user, in particular the worker, 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, if necessary.with physical actions (key press, screen, double click) that trigger documentation.

[0097] Furthermore, an evaluation unit can be provided that evaluates 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 for making a machine more efficient in the future, optimizing components or assemblies, and improving assembly and disassembly processes. Furthermore, the comments are taken into account in the event of deviations from the plan.

[0098] It is also possible for the documentation to work with components that are not preconfigured or connected to a PLC. This avoids errors that can arise from using modules that appear identical but have different configurations. 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 through the installation of automation technology. The systematic collection and documentation of all relevant information, such as the components used, the execution of installation and maintenance tasks, or any problems that have occurred, also leads to reliable knowledge of the current system status. The automated collection and assignment of this information significantly accelerates the process and relieves human installers of the documentation task.By automatically collecting and storing information to be documented, the risk of missing and / or incorrect documentation can be significantly reduced.

[0099] In Fig. 4 A method 100 according to embodiments of the invention is visualized in further detail. Fig. 3 On the computer 31 shown, such as a tablet or laptop, a user can first perform a user login 301. For this purpose, the user can use a graphical user interface 32 provided by the computer 31.

[0100] The user can either uniquely identify themselves by logging into the computer program, and an electronic reader can be assigned to the corresponding computer, so that scanned information (including all metadata, if applicable) is assigned to this specific user. Furthermore, it is possible for a specific scanner or camera of a mobile reader to be assigned to a specific user. This allows multiple devices and users to work on the same computer. In this case, precise assignment can be made via the reader.

[0101] A project selection 302 can also be made via the user interface 32, through which, for example, an installation specification 200 for a desired project is loaded. This makes it possible to initiate a start 303 for instructing the user on how to install the machine 1 by means of at least one installation instruction.

[0102] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the selected project or at least parts of it, for example at least the current installation instruction, is locked for other users while it is being edited by the user. Different degrees of locking are possible: It can be provided that the identification of an installation element, e.g. a connecting element, and / or one or more electrical components or another part can initiate a locking of this component for other users. It can also be provided that all directly and / or indirectly related installation elements and / or components and / or parts can be locked for other users. Furthermore, the locking of the respective work order and / or individual areas of the decentralized machine and / or the entire installation order is possible for other users.Identification of a new installation element, component, and / or part without confirmed processing of the previously identified installation element, component, and / or part can lead to the block being lifted. In one embodiment, the respective user can select the extent of the block. Optionally, after the start 303, a display 304 of the last performed step can be displayed, e.g., the last installation instruction and / or another instruction for the installation. First, an identification 305 of an installation element 10 can be performed by the user, for example, using 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 the components 4.

[0103] The installation instructions can then inform the user which of the components 4 has been identified. For this purpose, 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. The user can then establish a connection 307 between the installation element 10 and the component.

[0104] In the exemplary embodiment described here, the installation instructions are individually tailored to the respective user. For example, the level of detail of the instructions can be tailored to the user's qualification level. Based on the user's login 301 to the system using a unique identifier, the system can recognize whether the user is a first-time user or a recurring user. If the user is a first-time user, the installation instructions can be customized to a limited extent, for example based on the user's qualification level mentioned above and / or authorizations or roles. If the user is a recurring user, the system already has user data and the installation instructions can be further customized, for example based on factors such as the individual assembly history and / or the documented assembly efficiency of the respective user.

[0105] Based on the installation specification 200, confirmation 308 of correct assembly can be made. 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 are possible, where this information is linked to a unique identifier for the respective user. This can be done, for example, by a representation 311 in a machine overview with a green check mark or, for example, by displaying the affected connection in an electrical circuit diagram and presenting it to the user via the user interface 32. Subsequently, an identification of an installation element 312 can be performed again.By instructing the user, especially the worker, during the installation of the electrical automation technology and by automatically checking whether a suitable component has been connected correctly, error-free production of the system can be ensured.

[0106] The user can then establish a connection between the installation element and a device, such as an actuator and / or a hub and / or a sensor (not shown). Correct assembly can be confirmed using installation specification 200. Subsequently, at least partially automated documentation of correct assembly and documentation of the completion of the work step in installation specification 200 is possible, if necessary. This can be done, for example, by displaying a green check mark in a machine overview or by displaying the affected connection in an electrical circuit diagram and presenting it to the user via user interface 32. These work steps essentially correspond to work steps 307 to 311.

[0107] User-specific data management, particularly the documentation 310 linked to individual user IDs, also allows a user to interrupt a job and later continue the job with the same user or even a different user. By documenting which user performed which work steps and when, a very efficient and nearly seamless handover between individual work steps between multiple users is possible.

[0108] The system 2 according to embodiments of the invention may further comprise at least one information interface in order to be able to provide the method steps of a method 100. The at least one information interface may comprise at least one of the following information interfaces for transmitting information: Between the 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 optimising planning, Between the user and the system 2, e.g. for transmitting acknowledgements of the work steps carried out and / or comments on the work steps carried out, Between the system 2 and the components 4, Between the system 2 via a component 4 to one or more devices 5 such as actuators and / or sensors, Between the system 2 via a component 4 to a hub 6.

[0109] The transmission of information can be implemented as a bidirectional information transfer between the system 2 and the components 4. This can be performed without the individual components 4 being connected to a control system of the machine 1 (PLC 8) and / or being preconfigured for their future tasks in the machine 1.

[0110] Although some aspects have been described in connection with a device, it is clear that these aspects also represent a description of the corresponding method, with an element or device corresponding to a method step or a feature of a method step. Similarly, aspects described in connection with a method step also represent a description of a corresponding block, element, or feature of a corresponding device.

[0111] Embodiments of the invention may be implemented on a computer system. The computer system may be a local computing device (e.g., a personal computer, laptop, tablet computer, or mobile phone) having one or more processors and one or more storage devices, or a distributed computing system (e.g., a cloud computing system having one or more processors and one or more storage devices distributed at different locations, e.g., at a local client and / or one or more remote server farms and / or data centers). The computer system may include any circuitry or combination of circuitry. In one embodiment, the computer system may include one or more processors of any type. As used herein, the term "processor" may refer to any type of computing circuitry, e.g.,a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a graphics processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a multi-core processor, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or any other type of processor or processing circuit. Other types of circuitry that may be included in the computer system may be a custom circuit, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or similar, such as one or more circuits (e.g., a communications circuit) for use in wireless devices such as mobile phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, two-way radios, and similar electronic systems.The computer system may include one or more storage devices, which may include one or more storage elements suitable for the particular application, such as main memory in the form of random access memory (RAM), one or more hard disks, and / or one or more drives that handle removable media such as compact disks (CDs), flash memory cards, digital video disks (DVDs), and the like. The computer system may also include a display device, one or more speakers, and a keyboard and / or a control device, which may include a mouse, trackball, touchscreen, speech recognition device, or other device that enables a system user to input information to and receive information from the computer system.

[0112] Some or all of the method steps may be performed by (or using) a hardware device, such as a processor, a microprocessor, a programmable computer, or an electronic circuit. In some embodiments, some or more of the key method steps may be performed by such a device.

[0113] Depending on specific implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention may be implemented in hardware or software. The implementation may be performed using a non-transferable storage medium such as a digital storage medium, for example, a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blu-ray disc, a CD, a ROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, or a FLASH memory, on which electronically readable control signals are stored that interact (or can interact) with a programmable computer system to perform the respective method. Therefore, the digital storage medium may be computer-readable.

[0114] Some embodiments of the invention comprise a data carrier with electronically readable control signals capable of cooperating with a programmable computer system so that one of the methods described herein is carried out.

[0115] In general, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a computer program product with program code, wherein the program code serves to perform one of the methods when the computer program product is run on a computer. The program code can, for example, be stored on a machine-readable medium.

[0116] Other embodiments include the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein stored on a machine-readable medium.

[0117] In other words, one embodiment of the present invention is therefore a computer program having a program code for carrying out one of the methods described herein when the computer program is running on a computer.

[0118] A further embodiment of the present invention is therefore a storage medium (or a data carrier or a computer-readable medium) on which the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein is stored when executed by a processor. The data carrier, the digital storage medium, or the recorded medium is typically tangible and / or non-transferable. A further embodiment of the present invention is a device as described herein, comprising a processor and the storage medium.

[0119] A further embodiment of the invention is therefore a data stream or a sequence of signals that represent the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein. The data stream or signal sequence can, for example, be designed such that it can be transmitted via a data communication connection, e.g., via the Internet.

[0120] Another embodiment comprises a processing means, e.g., a computer or a programmable logic device, configured or adapted to perform any of the methods described herein.

[0121] A further embodiment comprises a computer on which the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein is installed.

[0122] A further embodiment of the invention comprises a device or system configured to transmit a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein to a recipient (e.g., electronically or optically). The recipient may be, for example, a computer, a mobile device, a storage device, or the like. The device or system may, for example, comprise a file server for transmitting the computer program to the recipient.

[0123] In some embodiments, a programmable logic device (e.g., a field-programmable gate array) may be used to perform some or all of the functions of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, a field-programmable gate array may cooperate with a microprocessor to perform any of the methods described herein. In general, the methods are preferably performed by any hardware device. List of reference symbols

[0124] 1Machine, system 2System 3Master module 4Module, switch, component, connection module 5Device, sensor, actuator 6Hub 8Control device, PLC 9Control cabinet 10Installation element 11Identifier 12Identification means, machine-readable code 13Power supply 20Computer program 21Bus system 22Detection device 30Device 31Computer 32User interface 33Data storage 41Display element 42Connection point, slot 100Procedure 101First process step 102Second process step 103Third process step 104Fourth process step 200Installation specifications 301User login 302Project selection 303Start of instructions 304Display of last performed step 305Identification of an installation element, especially a cable 306Signal to component to light up the indicator 307Connection between cable and module established 308Confirmation of correct assembly 309Documentation of correct assembly 310Documentation of work step completed 311Display of machine overview 312Identification of an installation element

Claims

1. A method (100) for a computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized, electrical components (4) of a machine (1) by multiple users with user-specific support, comprising: Receiving (101) an identifier (11) of an installation element (10), preferably a cable or a component; Providing (102) an installation specification (200) which specifies an assignment of the installation element (10) for connection to an electrical component (4); Identifying (103) the electrical component (4) based on the provided installation specification (200); and Initiating (104) an output of at least one installation information based on the received identifier (11) and the identified component (4); wherein the method (100) is applied by a plurality of users simultaneously or at least partially simultaneously.

2. The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one installation information comprises a user-specific installation instruction for assisting a respective user of the plurality of users with the installation; wherein the user-specific installation instruction is adapted to the capabilities of the respective user; wherein the adaptation to the capabilities of the respective user preferably includes a level of detail in the installation instruction.

3. The method (100) according to the preceding claim, further comprising: Digitally documenting the installation instruction and / or a processing status and / or the assembly progress and / or an overall progress of the respective user and / or a user-independent assembly progress; wherein the digitally documenting takes place automatically or in response to a manual confirmation by the respective user.

4. The method (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the digitally documenting comprises storing at least part of the following information: - a unique labeling of the respective user; - a user role of the respective user; - an access and / or editing authorization of the respective user; - a qualification level and / or a training level of the respective user; - an experience level of the respective user; - a competence level of the respective user; - a processing time of the respective user; - a processing time required by the respective user, preferably per assembly step; - a user-specific and / or user-independent assembly progress; - an assembly history of the respective user; - an assembly efficiency of the respective user.

5. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Blocking the identified installation element (10) and / or the electrical component (4) for other users and / or blocking installation elements and / or components directly and / or indirectly related to the identified installation element (10) and / or electrical component (4) for other users and / or blocking a respective work order for other users and / or blocking individual areas of the machine (1) for other users and / or blocking the entire installation order for other users.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the identifier (11) of the installation element (10) is received by a detection device (22) directly or indirectly associated with a respective user from the plurality of users; wherein a detection device (22) is associated with each of the plurality of users.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, if the installation element (10) and / or the electrical component (4) is not present and / or cannot be processed according to the installation specification (200), an installation step may be selected from an overall list, the installation element (10) and / or the component (4) may be added and thus confirmed as mounted.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each user of the plurality of users is assigned a unique labeling; wherein the unique labeling of a user is linked to a user name of the user, which is specified when the user logs in.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the initiating of the output comprises at least one of the following steps: Initiating an activation of a display element (41) on the electrical component (4) in order to indicate a connection point (42) for the installation element (10) to be connected by means of the display element (41); Initiating an indication of a connection point (42) of the electrical component (4) for the installation element (10) 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 mechanical and / or an electrical structure of the part of the machine (1); Initiating an indication of a connection point (42) of the electrical component (4) for the installation element (10) by means of augmented reality; Initiating an output of the installation instruction as an instruction for the respective user to connect the installation element (10) to a specific connection point (42) of the electrical component (4), wherein the connection point (42) is determined based on the installation specification (200); Initiating an acoustic output of the installation instruction.

10. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the installation information comprises a unique labeling which labels the installation element (10) and / or the identified component (4), wherein the installation information is stored in the installation specification (200), wherein the installation element (10) is selected from at least one similar installation element (10) based on the identifier (11) and / or the identified component (4) is selected from at least one similar component (4) based on the identifier (11).

11. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the installation specification (200) comprises a predefined specification about a modular and / or decentralized structure of the machine (1) based on predefined ECAD and / or MCAD data, the installation specification (200) being determined by linking the ECAD and MCAD data.

12. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a configuration of the component (4) is carried out using the identifier (11) in order to transfer the component (4) from a base-configured state, in which the component (4) is configured for bidirectional communication by means of a bus system (21) and / or a functional control by a Control device (8) is excluded, to a state with an extended configuration for functional control by the control device (8).

13. A system (2) for a computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized, electrical components (4) of a machine (1) by multiple users with user-specific support, comprising: a plurality of detection devices (22) for providing an identifier (11) of an installation element (10), each detection device (22) being assigned directly or indirectly to a respective user from a plurality of users; at least one electrical component (4) for connection to the installation element (10) and further installation elements (10); a data processing apparatus (30) comprising means for carrying out the steps of the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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

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