METHOD FOR SELF-CALCULATION AND SELF-ASSEMBLY OF MEASURING INSTRUMENTS

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a reliable method for self-calibration or self-recalibration of devices, in particular measuring instruments, by the operator.

[0002] The calibration process for a measuring instrument is carried out in accordance with the legal regulations on calibration as follows.

[0003] Manufacturer's responsibilities: The measuring instrument must be capable of being calibrated according to its design. The manufacturer ensures this by applying for type approval, for example, from the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PIB). The PIB is a state-accredited testing laboratory and operates according to clear conformity assessment procedures.

[0004] Accuracy classes, measurement stability, and permissible error limits are defined. Additionally, the devices must be protected against tampering by the manufacturer.

[0005] As a rule, the devices manufactured according to the type approval are calibrated for a defined period from the factory. This is indicated by the calibration label, which documents the duration, approval mark, test date and testing facility on the device.

[0006] The manufacturer also has a duty to ensure and maintain the calibration capability of the device by randomly sampling devices on the market.

[0007] Operator responsibilities: The operator of the measuring instrument is obligated to have it recalibrated before the calibration expires and to document this. Upon request, they must be able to prove the validity of the calibration at any time.

[0008] This will be A calibration order was submitted to the testing laboratory, an appointment was scheduled, the calibration prerequisites for the device were established (operation stopped, removal, etc.), and access was granted and prepared for the calibration personnel. These may be hazardous areas that are only accessible under special conditions (training, demarcation). The recalibration was then carried out, the device was reinstalled, the verification was marked on the device, the process was documented, and the invoice was settled.

[0009] If unsuccessful, the procedure may need to be repeated.

[0010] Testing laboratory tasks: Testing laboratories are legally recognized bodies that possess the technical expertise and personnel to perform calibrations. Testing laboratories are obligated to monitor the use of equipment and offer recalibration. For recalibration, testing laboratories use so-called working standards, which are derived from a reference measurement object, the standard, and may be used on-site.

[0011] Recurring inspections can vary in effort and cost depending on the measuring instrument and the scope / value of the inspection. For example, recalibration can cost between €55 and €245 (e.g., for scales), plus expenses. Depending on the item being inspected, this includes the inspection sticker and all necessary paperwork.

[0012] A recalibration of measuring instruments by the operator himself is only conditionally trustworthy.

[0013] Patent DE102019125116A1 already discloses a calibratable tool with sensors for measuring external influences. A control device analyzes the measured values ​​and automatically sets an earlier calibration date if predefined ranges are exceeded. The system aims to monitor the calibration of measuring instruments and adjust it as needed without requiring manual verification. However, DE102019125116A1 does not disclose a Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) for establishing a digitized process flow for calibration.

[0014] Patent specification US20190068999A1 describes a system for validating the integrity of media data using digital calibration certificates (DCCs). The DCCs are stored in a distributed ledger technology (DLT) and enable secure verification of data quality. The system aims to improve the trustworthiness and traceability of measurement data in IoT environments. US20190068999A1 does not disclose a verification mechanism that establishes a DLT-secured functional connection between the device to be calibrated and a working standard.

[0015] The publication KOMAROV MIKHAIL ET AL: "Integration of Distributed Ledger Technology and Modem Smart Grids: An Outlook", 2021 IEEE 23RD CONFERENCE ON BUSINESS INFORMATICS (CBI), IEEE, Vol. 2, September 1, 2021 (2021-09-01), pages 182-191, XP034026248, proposes a blockchain-based architecture for smart grids. It describes a multi-layered system in which measurement data from smart meters is aggregated across different network layers and protected using cryptographic methods. The goal is to increase data integrity and security in the smart grid while simultaneously enabling efficient management of the measurement data. However, a specific calibration process that would allow for the encrypted transmission of measurement data to a verification authority is not described.

[0016] The publication MUSTAPAA TUUKKA ET AL: "Digital Metrology for the Internet of Things", 2020 GLOBAL INTERNET OF THINGS SUMMIT (GIOTS), IEEE, June 3, 2020 (2020-06-03), pages 1-6, XP033782431, DOI: 10.1109 / GIOTS49054.2020.9119603, introduces a concept that applies digital metrology practices to IoT devices. It utilizes digital calibration certificates (DCCs), a digital system of units (D-SI), and distributed ledger technology (DLT) to ensure the traceability and trustworthiness of IoT measurement data. The system aims to quantify data quality and enable the use of IoT data in critical applications. However, the publication does not describe a testing authority or a specific working standard in the calibration process.

[0017] The invention is based on the problem of creating a method by which an operator can carry out on-site calibration or verification of a device, in particular a measuring instrument, which meets the requirements of a verification.

[0018] The problem is solved by a method having the features of claim 1.

[0019] The problem is solved efficiently and without loss of trust in the process or the outcome by using distributed ledger technology (DLT). This requires appropriate measures from the stakeholders, which, through a specific procedure, achieve the desired result.

[0020] According to the invention, the calibration of measuring instruments is carried out using a reliable digital process, in particular automatically.

[0021] Operator: The currently time-consuming manual process will be replaced and accelerated by efficient digital processes. Recalibration procedures can be planned and carried out flexibly. Travel costs are minimized by reducing transportation costs (work standards). Transparent documentation of the calibration via the internet will build additional trust with customers (drivers, grocery shoppers, electricity meter readers).

[0022] Manufacturer: The devices become more attractive to customers due to improved usability. Quality assurance for the manufacturer is simplified through comprehensive data collection. Analysis of large datasets (device behavior during recalibration) can be used statistically for quality assessment. The ability to provide encrypted measurement information can be used for additional services, such as those required for billing purposes (automated pay-per-use).

[0023] Testing facility: The effort and costs associated with the service decrease. This can be a unique selling point for testing bodies that adopt this concept early on. New user: any contractual partner

[0024] The described digitized process can be used similarly in non-calibration-required areas. In this case, the measuring instrument characteristics implemented by the manufacturer are used by the contracting parties themselves.

[0025] This function can also be used in devices without type approval and with mutually agreed working standards, since only the accuracy guaranteed by the manufacturer is considered sufficient.

[0026] The initial verification provided by the manufacturer can also be implemented here by the contracting parties.

[0027] In this use case, the manufacturer and / or the contracting parties can agree on and maintain calibration according to the process described above, without the need for a testing laboratory. In this case, DLT, as a trusted technology, provides a solid and transparent basis for amicably resolving any potential dispute.

[0028] This manufacturer-based recalibration service now enables the manufacturer to offer consistently high-quality and therefore more sustainable use of the devices, providing increased reliability for the end customer.

[0029] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0030] The invention is explained in more detail below as an exemplary embodiment, to the extent necessary for understanding, with reference to a figure. FIG shows a schematic representation of the elements realizing the method according to the invention.

[0031] The problem is solved efficiently and without loss of trust in the process or the outcome by using distributed ledger technology (DLT). This requires appropriate measures from the stakeholders, which, through a specific procedure, achieve the desired result.

[0032] Note: DLT, often also described under the keyword "blockchain", provides, among other things, non-forgeable storage and non-forgeable automation using a special infrastructure.

[0033] According to the invention, the measures comprise the non-falsifiable digitally recordable properties of the real devices, a process flow that is secured by means of a digitized data chain (DLT) including DLT-secured data storage.

[0034] By collecting specific data: Manufacturer, device type, type approval, hardware and software version, device instance, batch,... Operator during period xy, intended use, testing facility, calibration date, duration, testing, normal operating instance (planned, used)

[0035] Through a digitized process: The verifiable measuring instrument G is recorded at the manufacturer with regard to its type, certificate, and issuing authority, and is registered (DLT) no later than upon delivery, including the calibration data (test date, validity period). Additionally, the verifiable measuring instrument has the capability to output encrypted calibration-relevant information for each measurement.

[0036] The operator purchases the measuring device and registers its use (DLT) no later than before the expiry date. Before expiry, they apply to a testing laboratory (I) for recalibration and authorize the testing laboratory to access the data.

[0037] The testing authority initiates the test.

[0038] For this purpose, it selects one or more working standards A. The working standards are given a special property: They are provided with machine-readable data that, among other things, enables the encrypted and a separate unencrypted identification of the working standard.

[0039] The working standards are sent to the operator in a suitable transport form, possibly sealed.

[0040] Sensitive working standards may include active monitoring functions to ensure their integrity. These standards can be sent without or with only an encrypted indication of the measured quantity, enabling calibration or recalibration even with odd, unpredictable (stochastic) measured quantities.

[0041] Depending on the measurement quantity, the working standards may be equipped with additional intelligence to ensure correct use.

[0042] Example: The recalibration of a fuel dispenser is ensured by a test container as a working standard, which can detect the connection to the dispenser being calibrated. The container can communicate with the dispenser and trigger the filling signal itself. The container can detect the test medium (density). The container can detect the temperature and pressure. The data can be read out in encrypted form by the operator and integrated into the plausibility check.

[0043] This ensures the correct use of the working standard during the recalibration process with the measuring instrument. The specific solution depends on the measured quantity and the equipment used.

[0044] In addition, the testing laboratory creates an (individual) recalibration procedure using the individual working standards. The procedure is designed so that it can be carried out online using a suitable (mobile) device provided by the operator (smartphone, tablet, web-based). This procedure is part of the DLT data acquisition and an accompanying plausibility and correctness check (error tolerance).

[0045] The operator ensures the necessary framework is in place. They register for and initiate the verification process. They perform the verification steps themselves, rather than a representative from the verification body. During this process, they record the required and requested data. For each measurement, the verifiable measuring device transmits encrypted reverification information, which can be read, for example, via QR code and smartphone or by character strings on the measuring device. The data is stored (DLT) and, if possible, evaluated during the verification process. The operator can print the certificate and affix it to the device. They then return the working standards, which the verification body can assign a new encrypted identification to for the next verification process.

[0046] If the test is successful, the testing body issues the certificate online. The result is stored (DLT). The operator receives access to this data. They can make this data publicly available so that customers may view it (e.g., on scales at the shop counter, at a gas station pump). The testing body may, if necessary, conduct random checks with its own personnel.

[0047] The manufacturer receives anonymized access to the data of its devices and can fulfill its testing mandate for optimization and quality assurance with the help of the testing facilities.

[0048] In addition to the recalibration processes, further processes, such as summary balance checks, can be integrated into the calibration (total fuel consumption at a filling station in relation to the total quantity sold via calibrated devices).

[0049] The present invention has been explained in detail with reference to specific embodiments for illustrative purposes. Elements of the individual embodiments can also be combined with one another. The invention is therefore not intended to be limited to individual embodiments, but is merely subject to limitation by the appended claims. Reference symbol list

[0050] A - Working standard D - Device, measuring instrument DLT - Data chain, Blockchain I - Auditing authority, manufacturer

Claims

1. A method for secure data acquisition from devices, in particular measurement devices, for the purpose of calibration or standardisation, according to which - a digitalised process flow in a data chain (DLT), in particular a blockchain, which is created and secured using distributed ledger technology, is established, - a device (D) configured to output encrypted measurement information, in particular data from measurement operations, is registered in the data chain (DLT) with its implemented measurement device properties, in particular identification features, - a test entity (I) obtains access to the measurement information of the device (D), - the test entity (I) establishes an operative connection, secured by the data chain (DLT), between the device (D) and a working standard (A), wherein the working standard is provided with identification data such that an encrypted identification of the working standard and a separate unencrypted identification of the working standard are given, wherein the working standard (A) is designed to determine measurement data, and wherein - the determined measurement data of the working standard (A) are read out in encrypted form and are transmitted to the test entity (I) in encrypted form, - the test entity (I) causes storing of this result in the data chain (DLT) upon successful calibration or standardisation of the device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterised in that the measurement device properties of a measurement device (D), in particular a standardisable measurement device, are acquired by an optional selection from the group manufacturer, device type, construction type, type approval, hardware version, software version, certificate, entity, calibration data, test date, validity period.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterised in that a standardisable measurement device (D) is configured to output standardisation-relevant information for each measurement in encrypted form.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the working standard (A) includes an active monitoring function by means of which the integrity of the working standard is determined.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the working standard (A) receives a new encrypted identification for each process flow through the test entity (I).

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device (D) outputs encrypted calibration information or encrypted re-standardisation information for a measurement operation.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterised in that the output encrypted calibration information or the encrypted re-standardisation information is readable on the device via QR tag and smartphone.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterised in that the output encrypted calibration information or the encrypted re-standardisation information is readable on the device via character sequences.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device is calibrated or standardised in accordance with the determined measurement data of the working standard (A).