Control appliance, setting method, setting program, and information processing device

Abstract

To efficiently carry out engineering regarding input / output settings of data for an automation system.SOLUTION: A control appliance 30 sends a request for input / output settings of data to a management server 10, receives, from the management server 10, input / output information that defines input / output settings associated with each control appliance 30 that controls a system, and executes input / output settings of an own appliance based on the received input / output information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device, a setting method, a setting program, and an information processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] By introducing automation systems into plants, the processes for manufacturing various products are automated. When carrying out projects related to such automation systems, engineering work such as design, construction, and inspection is carried out based on design information received from customers. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2022-046438 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the past, it has been difficult to efficiently carry out engineering of an automation system in a plant. For example, in the past, it has been difficult to efficiently carry out data input / output settings (referred to as "IO (Input Output) settings") for a plurality of control systems constituting the automation system of the plant.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and has an object to efficiently carry out engineering related to input / output settings of data in an automation system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention provides a control device comprising: a transmission / reception unit that transmits a request for data input / output settings to an information processing device and receives input / output information from the information processing device that defines the input / output settings associated with each control device that executes control of the system; and a setting unit that executes the input / output settings of the control device itself based on the received input / output information.

[0007] The present invention also provides a setting method for executing processing in which a computer sends a request for input / output settings of data to an information processing device, receives input / output information from the information processing device that defines the input / output settings associated with each control device that executes control of the system, and executes the input / output settings of the device based on the received input / output information.

[0008] The present invention also provides a setting program that causes a computer to execute a process of sending a request for data input / output settings to an information processing device, receiving input / output information from the information processing device that defines the input / output settings associated with each control device that executes control of the system, and executing the input / output settings of the device based on the received input / output information.

[0009] The present invention also provides an information processing device that, when a request for input / output settings of data in a control device that executes control of a system is received, includes an acquisition unit that acquires input / output information defining the input / output settings associated with each control device, and a transmission unit that transmits the input / output information to the control device from which the request was received. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to efficiently carry out engineering related to input / output settings of data in an automation system. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example and a processing example of an automation system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2]2A to 2C are diagrams showing specific examples of each process of the automation system according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of each device of the automation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an individual information storage unit of the instrumentation database according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the overall flow of an automation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] A control device, a setting method, a setting program, and an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

[0013] [Embodiment] The configuration and processing of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment, the configuration and processing of each device of the automation system 100, and the processing flow of the automation system 100 will be described below in order, and finally the effects of the embodiment will be described.

[0014] 1. Configuration and Processing of Automation System 100 The configuration and processing of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration and processing of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Below, an example of the configuration of the entire automation system 100, an example of the processing of the entire automation system 100, a specific example of each processing of the automation system 100, and the effect of the automation system 100 will be described. Note that in the embodiment, factory production monitoring using plant equipment, which is a device installed in a plant, will be described as an example, but the device and field of use are not limited, and the system can also be applied to environmental measurement monitoring such as power monitors, wind power generation, water and sewage monitors, and river monitors.

[0015] (1-1. Example of the overall configuration of the automation system 100) The automation system 100 has a management server 10 which is an information processing device, an instrumentation database 20, control devices 30 (30A, 30B, ...) which are setting devices, and field devices 40 (40A, 40B, ...). Here, the management server 10, the instrumentation database 20, the control devices 30, and the field devices 40 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other by wire or wirelessly via a predetermined communication network (not shown). Note that the predetermined communication network can be any of various communication networks such as the Internet or a dedicated line.

[0016] (1-1-1. Management Server 10) The management server 10 is an information processing device that manages at least one control system. For example, the management server 10 is realized by a GDS (Global Discovery Server) that manages a control system that complies with OPC UA (Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture), an HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) server having an OPC UA client function, or the like. Note that the automation system 100 shown in FIG. 1 may include multiple management servers 10. The management server 10 may also be realized by a cloud environment, an on-premise environment, an edge environment, or the like.

[0017] Here, the control system is a system that controls the process of a plant, and is configured by control device 30, as well as field devices 40 controlled by the control device 30. For example, the control system is realized by a DCN (Distributed Control Node) that is a control controller, a group of devices that manage the DCN, and a group of devices controlled by the DCN. The example in Fig. 1 includes multiple control systems such as control system A that controls the process of plant A, control system B that controls the process of plant B, etc. Also, the plant is, for example, a production facility for oil / petrochemicals, gas, iron / non-ferrous metals, chemicals, electricity, food and pharmaceuticals, etc.

[0018] (1-1-2. Instrumentation Database 20) The instrumentation database 20 is a storage device that stores individual information of at least one control system, and is realized by a database server or the like installed in a cloud environment. The instrumentation database 20 may be realized by REST (Representational State Transfer) support to enable a configuration separate from the management server 10. The automation system 100 shown in FIG. 1 may include multiple instrumentation databases 20. The instrumentation database 20 may be configured to be integrated with the management server 10.

[0019] (1-1-3. Control device 30) The control device 30 is a plant device that controls a plurality of field devices 40 that constitute a plant, and is a setting device. For example, the control device 30 is realized by a control controller. The control device 30 is managed by an engineer E (EA, EB, ...) who performs maintenance and inspection of the plant's control system. In the example of FIG. 1, the control device 30A that constitutes control system A is managed by engineer EA. The control device 30B that constitutes control system B is managed by engineer EB.

[0020] (1-1-4. Field device 40) The field devices 40 are plant devices that constitute a plant. For example, the field devices 40 are realized by measuring devices such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, and flow rate sensors, and operating devices such as actuators. In the example of Fig. 1, the field devices 40A that constitute the plant A include a field device 40A-1, a field device 40A-2, a field device 40A-3, .... The field devices 40B that constitute the plant B include a field device 40B-1, a field device 40B-2, a field device 40B-3, ....

[0021] (1-2. Example of processing of the entire automation system 100) The following describes the overall processing of the automation system 100. Note that the processing of steps S1 to S4 below may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processing of steps S1 to S4 below may be omitted.

[0022] (1-2-1. Individual information registration process) First, the instrumentation database 20 registers individual information (step S1). For example, the instrumentation database 20 accepts and stores the individual information of each control system input by an engineer E via an engineer terminal.

[0023] Here, individual information refers to information about individual control devices set for each control system of the plant, and includes, for example, the vendor name of the control system, the device name of the control device 30 that constitutes the control system, the IP (Internet Protocol) address, input / output information, and the performance of the control system.

[0024] (1-2-2. Input / Output Information Acquisition Processing) Secondly, the management server 10 acquires input / output information from the instrumentation database 20 (step S2). For example, the management server 10 receives an input / output setting request for the control device 30A from the control device 30A constituting the control system A, refers to the individual information in the instrumentation database 20, and acquires the input / output information of the control device 30A.

[0025] Here, the input / output information is information that defines the input / output settings associated with each control device 30, and is, for example, the input / output type of data in each input / output channel of the control device 30. The input / output types are, for example, "AI (Analog Input)", "AO (Analog Output)", "DI (Digital Input)", "DO (Digital Output)", etc.

[0026] Furthermore, the control device 30 transmits an input / output setting request to the management server 10 when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 for the first time, or when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 after a change in the system configuration. In the example of Fig. 1, the control device 30A transmits an input / output setting request to the management server 10 when the control device 30A is connected for the first time, or when a configuration change is made to the field device 40A connected to the control device 30A.

[0027] (1-2-3. Input / Output information transmission process) Thirdly, management server 10 transmits input / output information to control device 30 (step S3). Management server 10 transmits input / output information {CH1:AO, CH2:AO, CH3:DO,...} of control device 30A to control device 30A that transmitted the input / output setting request.

[0028] (1-2-4. Input / Output setting process) Fourth, the control device 30 sets the input and output of data for the control device 30 (step S4). For example, the control device 30A constituting the control system A executes an API (Application Programming Interface) call to execute data input and output settings, calls a setting API required for input and output settings for each system vendor, and executes settings of the input and output modules.

[0029] In the example of FIG. 1, the control device 30A sets "AO" to input / output channel 1 of the input / output module, sets "AO" to input / output channel 2, and sets "DO" to input / output channel 3.

[0030] (1-3. Specific Examples of Each Process of the Automation System 100) Here, a specific example of each process of the automation system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a specific example of each process of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. In the example of Fig. 2, the control device 30A provided by the system vendor "Company A" is "DCN1", the control device 30B provided by the system vendor "Company B" is "DCN2", the input / output information of "DCN1" of "Company A" is {CH1:AO, CH2:AO, CH3:DO}, and the input / output information of "DCN2" of "Company B" is {CH1:AI, CH2:DI, CH3:DO}.

[0031] 2, "DCN1" and "DCN2" have an "OPA server" as an application having a common API for input / output settings. Here, the "OPA server" has an "IO driver I / F" that is an interface that complies with the standards of the standardization organization OPA (Open Process Automation). In the automation system 100, in order for "DCN1" and "DCN2" to participate in the network, individual information of the control device 30 (IP address, OPC UA capability, etc.) is registered and managed in the instrumentation database 20.

[0032] First, as shown in Fig. 2(1), "DCN1" transmits an I / O setting request for "DCN1" to the management server 10 via the "OPA server" of "DCN1". Similarly, "DCN2" transmits an I / O setting request for "DCN2" to the management server 10 via the "OPA server" of "DCN2".

[0033] 2(2), when the management server 10 receives an input / output setting request for "DCN1", it acquires input / output information for "DCN1" from the instrumentation database 20. Similarly, when the management server 10 receives an input / output setting request for "DCN2", it acquires input / output information for "DCN2" from the instrumentation database 20.

[0034] 2(3), the management server 10 transmits the acquired input / output information of "DCN1" to "DCN1." Similarly, the management server 10 transmits the acquired input / output information of "DCN2" to "DCN2."

[0035] Fourth, as shown in Figure 2 (4), "DCN1" calls "SetIO", an I / O setting API common to all vendors, based on the I / O information of "DCN1" {CH1:AO, CH2:AO, CH3:DO} in the "OPA Server" of "DCN1". At this time, "DCN1" calls "SetIO_A", an I / O setting API specific to the vendor, and executes I / O settings of the "input module" and "output module" using the IO driver for "Company A". Therefore, by being provided with an API interface, "DCN1" can call the driver without depending on the system vendor.

[0036] Similarly, "DCN2" calls "SetIO", an I / O setting API common to all vendors, based on the I / O information {CH1:AI, CH2:DI, CH3:DO} of "DCN2" in its "OPA server". At this time, "DCN2" calls "SetIO_B", an I / O setting API specific to the vendor, and executes I / O settings of "input module" and "output module" using the IO driver for "Company B". Therefore, by providing an API interface, "DCN2" can call the driver without depending on the system vendor.

[0037] In the above example, both "DCN1" and "DCN2" set "DO" for "CH3", but the setting method is different for the IO drivers of "Company A" and "Company B". For example, "DCN1" executes "SetIO_A" corresponding to "CH3:DO" to set I / O. On the other hand, "DCN2" executes "SetIO_B" corresponding to "CH3:DO" to set I / O. However, the "OPA Server" calls the common API "SetIO" in both cases. Therefore, when system vendors set I / O from the automation system or "OPA Server", there is no need to create separate "OPA Server" for "Company A" and "OPA Server" for "Company B".

[0038] To execute the process shown in Figure 2(4) above, for example, each system vendor can set the association between the common API and the vendor-specific API when building each "OPA server" and then incorporate it into each DCN. Also, each system vendor can associate the common API with the vendor-specific API in the "OPA server" settings after incorporating it into each DCN.

[0039] (1-4. Effects of the Automation System 100) In the following, problems with the automation system 100P according to the reference technology will be described, and then the effects of the automation system 100 will be described.

[0040] (1-4-1. Problems with the Automation System 100P) In the automation system 100P, the transition to the standard OPC UA is progressing, but control systems including DCNs from multiple vendors coexist. In the above environment, the input / output settings of the control device 30P related to the reference technology must be individually configured for each system vendor, so if there are a large number of control devices 30P, the engineering man-hours will be enormous.

[0041] (1-4-2. Overview of the automation system 100) In the automation system 100, the following processes are executed. First, the instrumentation database 20 registers individual information that defines the input / output settings of each control device 30. Second, the management server 10 acquires input / output information from the instrumentation database 20 in response to an input / output setting request from the control device 30. Third, the management server 10 transmits the input / output information to the control device 30 that requested the input / output setting. Fourth, the control device 30 sets the input / output of data for the control device 30 using the received input / output information.

[0042] At this time, in the automation system 100, the control device 30 uses an IO driver for input / output settings of each system vendor via an application or the like having a common method for input / output settings installed in the control device 30, and executes the input / output settings of each control device 30.

[0043] (1-4-3. Effects of the Automation System 100) As described above, the automation system 100 enables automation of input / output settings of the control device 30 in an environment where control devices 30 of multiple vendors coexist, and can reduce the number of engineering steps performed by the engineer E. In other words, the automation system 100 can efficiently perform engineering related to input / output settings of data for the automation system of the plant while preventing human error.

[0044] 2. Configuration and Processing of Each Device of the Automation System 100 The configuration and processing of each device included in the automation system 100 shown in Fig. 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of each device of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. In the following, an example of the configuration of the entire automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described, and then an example of the configuration and processing of the management server 10, an example of the configuration and processing of the instrumentation database 20, an example of the configuration and processing of the control device 30, and an example of the configuration and processing of the field device 40 will be described in detail.

[0045] (2-1. Example of the overall configuration of the automation system 100) An example of the overall configuration of the automation system 100 shown in Fig. 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the automation system 100 has a management server 10 which is an information processing device, an instrumentation database 20, a control device 30 which is a setting device, and a field device 40. The management server 10, the instrumentation database 20, the control device 30, and the field device 40 are communicatively connected to each other via a communication network N which is realized by the Internet, a dedicated line, or the like.

[0046] In this case, the management server 10 may be realized in a cloud environment, an on-premise environment, an edge environment, or the like. The control device 30 and the field device 40 configure a control system that controls a system. Here, the system is, for example, a plant. The control system executes control of the plant, for example. The field device 40 is installed at the plant site.

[0047] Furthermore, the control device 30 complies with, for example, the standard OPA, MTP (Module Type Package), or NOA (NAMUR Open Architecture).

[0048] Furthermore, the control device 30 is compliant with, for example, the standard OPC UA.

[0049] (2-2. Configuration and Processing Examples of Management Server 10) A configuration example and a processing example of the management server 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The management server 10 is an information processing device, and includes a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13. The management server 10 may also include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that receives various operations from an administrator of the management server 10, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) that displays various information.

[0050] (2-2-1. Communications Department 11) The communication unit 11 manages data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 11 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. The communication unit 11 can also perform data communication with an operator's terminal (not shown).

[0051] (2-2-2. Storage section 12) The storage unit 12 stores various information referenced when the control unit 13 operates and various information acquired when the control unit 13 operates. Here, the storage unit 12 can be realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. Note that, in the example of FIG. 3, the storage unit 12 is installed inside the management server 10, but it may be installed outside the management server 10, or multiple storage units may be installed. Also, the storage unit 12 may store individual information stored in an individual information storage unit 21 of the instrumentation database 20 described later.

[0052] (2-2-3. Control unit 13) The control unit 13 is responsible for controlling the entire management server 10. The control unit 13 has a reception unit 13a, an acquisition unit 13b, and a transmission unit 13c. Here, the control unit 13 can be realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0053] (2-2-3-1. Reception section 13a) The reception unit 13a receives various types of information. The reception unit 13a may store the received various types of information in the storage unit 12. For example, the reception unit 13a receives, from the control device 30, a request for input / output setting of data in the control device 30 that executes control of the system. The reception unit 13a also receives a request for input / output setting of data transmitted from the control device 30 when the control device 30 is connected to a communication network including the management server 10 for the first time. The reception unit 13a also receives a request for input / output setting of data transmitted from the control device 30 when the control device 30 is connected to a communication network including the management server 10 after a change in the system configuration.

[0054] To explain a specific example, the reception unit 13a receives an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001" of the control device 30A, which is transmitted from the control device 30A during initial setting of the control device 30A in the control system A. The reception unit 13a also receives an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001" of the control device 30B, which is transmitted from the control device 30B after the field device 40B in the control system B is replaced.

[0055] (2-2-3-2. Acquisition part 13b) The acquisition unit 13b receives various types of information. The acquisition unit 13b may store the acquired various types of information in the storage unit 12. For example, when the acquisition unit 13b receives a request for input / output settings of data in the control device 30 that executes control of the system, the acquisition unit 13b acquires input / output information that defines input / output settings associated with each control device 30.

[0056] Furthermore, the acquiring unit 13b acquires input / output information that defines the input / output type of data in each input / output channel of the control device 30, which is associated with each identification information of the control device 30. At this time, when the acquiring unit 13b receives a request for input / output setting of data in the control device 30, the acquiring unit 13b refers to a predetermined database that stores input / output information, and acquires the input / output information associated with each identification information of the control device 30 for which the request was received. Here, the identification information is, for example, an IP address, but is not particularly limited as long as it is information for identifying the control device 30.

[0057] To explain a specific example, when the acquisition unit 13b receives an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001" of the control device 30A from the control device 30A of the control system A, the acquisition unit 13b refers to the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrumentation database 20 and acquires the input / output information {CH1:AO, CH2:AO, CH3:DO,...} of the control device 30A associated with the IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001" of the control device 30A. When the acquisition unit 13b receives an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001" of the control device 30B from the control device 30B of the control system B, the acquisition unit 13b refers to the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrumentation database 20 and acquires the input / output information {CH1:AI, CH2:DI, CH3:DO,...} of the control device 30B associated with the IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001" of the control device 30B.

[0058] In addition, the acquisition unit 13b acquires input / output information when it receives a request for data input / output settings sent from the control device 30 when the control device 30 is connected to a communication network including the management server 10 for the first time, or when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network after a change in the system configuration.

[0059] To explain a specific example, when the reception unit 13a receives an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001" of the control device 30A transmitted from the control device 30A during initial setting of the control device 30A of the control system A, the reception unit 13a refers to the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrumentation database 20 and acquires the input / output information {CH1:AO, CH2:AO, CH3:DO,...} of the control device 30A of the control system A. Furthermore, when the reception unit 13a receives an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001" of the control device 30B transmitted from the control device 30B after replacing the field device 40B of the control system B, the reception unit 13a refers to the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrumentation database 20 and acquires the input / output information {CH1:AI, CH2:DI, CH3:DO,...} of the control device 30B of the control system B.

[0060] (2-2-3-3. Transmitter 13c) The transmitting unit 13c transmits various information. The transmitting unit 13c acquires various information acquired by the acquiring unit 13b. The transmitting unit 13c also acquires various information stored in the storage unit 12. For example, the transmitting unit 13c transmits input / output information to the control device 30 from which a request for setting input / output of data has been accepted.

[0061] To explain a specific example, when the transmission unit 13c receives an input / output setting request from the control device 30A of the control system A, it transmits the input / output information {CH1:AO, CH2:AO, CH3:DO,...} of the control device 30A of the control system A to the control device 30A. When the transmission unit 13c receives an input / output setting request from the control device 30B of the control system B, it transmits the input / output information {CH1:AI, CH2:DI, CH3:DO,...} of the control device 30B of the control system B to the control device 30B.

[0062] (2-3. Example of instrumentation database 20 configuration and processing) A configuration example and a processing example of the instrumentation database 20 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The instrumentation database 20 is a storage device and has an individual information storage unit 21. Here, the individual information storage unit 21 can be realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. The instrumentation database 20 may be configured to be integrated with the management server 10 described above.

[0063] (2-3-1. Individual information storage unit 21) The individual information storage unit 21 stores individual information. For example, the individual information storage unit 21 stores individual information including input / output information for each control system input by an engineer E via an engineer terminal. An example of data stored in the individual information storage unit 21 will now be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrumentation database 20 according to the embodiment. In the example of FIG. 4, the individual information storage unit 21 has items such as "DCN vendor," "control device," "IP address," "input / output information," and "performance."

[0064] "DCN vendor" indicates identification information for identifying a system vendor that provides a control system, such as the company name of the system vendor. "Control device" indicates identification information for identifying a control device 30 that constitutes the control system, such as an identification number or identification symbol of the control device 30. "IP address" indicates identification information for identifying the control device 30 on a communication network, such as an identification number or identification symbol assigned to the control device 30. "Input / output information" is information that defines input / output settings associated with each control device 30, such as the input / output type of data in each input / output channel of the control device 30 that constitutes the control system (e.g., "AI", "AO", "DI", "DO"). "Performance" indicates the performance of the control system, such as the standard and version information of an alarm for the control system.

[0065] That is, Figure 4 shows an example in which data such as {control device: "control device DCN-A001", IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001", Input / Output information: "CH1:AO / CH2:AO / CH3:DO", performance: "Alarm AL2.00", ...} for a DCN vendor identified by "Company A", and {control device: "control device DCN-B001", IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001", Input / Output information: "CH1:AI / CH2:DI / CH3:DO", performance: "Alarm AL1.00", ...} for a DCN vendor identified by "Company B" is stored in the individual information storage unit 21.

[0066] (2-4. Configuration and Processing Examples of Control Device 30) An example of the configuration and processing of the control device 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The control device 30 is a setting device that controls a plurality of devices that configure a control system, and includes a control unit 31 and a communication unit .

[0067] (2-4-1. Control unit 31) The control unit 31 is responsible for the overall control of the control device 30. The control unit 31 has an execution unit 31a, a transmission / reception unit 31b, and a setting unit 31c. Here, the control unit 31 can be realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU or an MPU, or an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0068] (2-4-1-1. Executive Unit 31a) The execution unit 31a executes various controls. For example, the execution unit 31a collects measurement values ​​from the field devices 40 that constitute the control system. The execution unit 31a may also calculate values ​​from the measurement values ​​collected from the field devices 40. The execution unit 31a also controls the field devices 40 by transmitting control signals.

[0069] (2-4-1-2. Transmitter / receiver 31b) The transmitting / receiving unit 31b transmits and receives various information. For example, the transmitting / receiving unit 31b transmits a request for input / output setting of data of the control device 30 to the management server 10. The transmitting / receiving unit 31b also receives input / output information transmitted from the management server 10.

[0070] At this time, the transmitting / receiving unit 31b transmits a request for data input / output setting to the management server 10, and receives input / output information defining input / output settings associated with each control device 30 that executes control of the system from the management server 10. The transmitting / receiving unit 31b also receives input / output information defining the input / output type of data in each input / output channel of the control device 30, associated with each identification information of the control device 30.

[0071] To explain a specific example, the transceiver 31b transmits an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001" of the control device 30A of the control system A to the management server 10, and receives the input / output information {CH1:AO, CH2:AO, CH3:DO,...} of the control device 30A associated with the IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001" of the control device 30A transmitted from the management server 10 that received the input / output setting request. The transceiver 31b also transmits an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001" of the control device 30B of the control system B to the management server 10, and receives the input / output information {CH1:AI, CH2:DI, CH3:DO,...} of the control device 30B associated with the IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001" of the control device 30B transmitted from the management server 10 that received the input / output setting request.

[0072] In addition, the transmitter / receiver unit 31b transmits a request for data input / output settings to the management server 10 when the control device 30 is connected to a communication network including the management server 10 for the first time, or when a control system including the control device 30 is connected to a communication network including the management server 10 after a change in the system configuration.

[0073] To explain a specific example, when initially setting up control device 30A in control system A, transceiver 31b transmits the IP address "XXX.XXX.AAA.001" of control device 30A to management server 10. After replacing field device 40B in control system B, transceiver 31b transmits an input / output setting request including the IP address "XXX.XXX.BBB.001" of control device 30B to management server 10.

[0074] (2-4-1-3. Setting section 31c) The setting unit 31c executes various settings. The setting unit 31c calls an API corresponding to the input / output setting using the input / output information, and sets the input / output module of the control device 30. At this time, when the setting unit 31c receives input / output information from the management server 10 to which a request for setting the input / output setting of data has been transmitted, the setting unit 31c calls an API corresponding to the input / output setting using the input / output information, and executes the setting of the input / output module of the control device 30, which is the device itself. In addition, the setting unit 31c uses the input / output information to call an API common to the system related to the input / output setting, and further calls an API corresponding to the input / output setting that differs for each system, and executes the setting of the input / output module of the control device 30, which is the device itself.

[0075] To explain a specific example, the setting unit 31c executes an API call using the input / output information of the control device 30A of the control system A received from the management server 10, calls a common API common to the control systems, and then calls the setting API of "Company A" associated with the common API, and executes the driver "Driver-A-AO" of "Company A" required for setting the input / output of channel 1 of the control device 30A, the driver "Driver-A-AO" of "Company A" required for setting the input / output of channel 2 of the control device 30A, and the driver "Driver-A-DO" of "Company A" required for setting the input / output of channel 3 of the control device 30A, thereby performing settings of the input / output modules of the control device 30A of the control system A.

[0076] In addition, the setting unit 31c executes an API call using the input / output information of the control device 30B of control system B received from the management server 10, calls a common API common to the control systems, and then calls the setting API of "Company B" associated with the common API, and executes the driver "Driver-B-AI" of "Company B" required for input / output setting of channel 1 of the control device 30B, the driver "Driver-B-DI" of "Company B" required for input / output setting of channel 2 of the control device 30B, and the driver "Driver-B-DO" of "Company B" required for input / output setting of channel 3 of the control device 30B, thereby performing setting of the input / output modules of the control device 30B of control system B.

[0077] (2-4-2. Communication section 32) The communication unit 32 is responsible for data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 32 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. The communication unit 32 can also perform data communication with an operator's terminal (not shown).

[0078] (2-5. Field device 40) An example of the configuration and processing of the field device 40 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The field device 40 is a measuring device such as a sensor device constituting a control system, and measures a sensor value or a process value. At this time, the field device 40 transmits the measured sensor value or process value as a measured value to the control device 30 constituting the control system. The field device 40 is also an operating device such as an actuator constituting the control system, and performs process control such as opening and closing a valve in response to a control signal received from the control device 30 constituting the control system.

[0079] 3. Flow of each process in the automation system 100 The overall process flow of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the overall process flow of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Below, the individual information registration process, input / output information acquisition process, and input / output information setting process will be described in this order.

[0080] (3-1. Overall processing flow of the automation system 100) The flow of individual information registration processing of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described below. Note that the processing of steps S101 to S104 below can be executed in a different order. Also, among the processing of steps S101 to S104 below, some processing may be omitted.

[0081] First, engineer EA executes an individual information input process (step S101). For example, engineer EA inputs individual information including the IP address of control device 30A and input / output information and performance of control device 30A to instrumentation database 20 via an engineer terminal. Second, instrumentation database 20 executes individual information storage process (step S102). For example, instrumentation database 20 stores the individual information of control system A input from engineer EA in individual information storage unit 21.

[0082] Third, the engineer EB executes an individual information input process (step S103). For example, the engineer EB inputs individual information including the IP address of the control device 30B and input / output information and performance of the control device 30B to the instrumentation database 20 via the engineer terminal. Fourth, the instrumentation database 20 executes an individual information storage process (step S104). For example, the instrumentation database 20 stores the individual information of the control system B input by the engineer EB in the individual information storage unit 21.

[0083] (3-2. Input / Output Information Acquisition Process Flow) The flow of input / output information acquisition processing of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described below. Note that the processing of the following steps S201 to S210 can be executed in a different order. Also, among the processing of the following steps S201 to S210, some processing may be omitted.

[0084] First, the control device 30A executes an input / output setting request process (step S201). For example, the control device 30A transmits an input / output setting request including the identification information of the control device 30A to the management server 10 at the time of initial setting of the control device 30A of the control system A. Second, the management server 10 executes an input / output information reference process (step S202). For example, the management server 10 searches the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrumentation database 20 based on the identification information of the control device 30A. Third, the instrumentation database 20 executes an input / output information output process (step S203). For example, the instrumentation database 20 outputs input / output information corresponding to the identification information of the control device 30A to the management server 10. Fourth, the management server 10 executes an input / output information reception process (step S204). For example, the management server 10 receives input / output information corresponding to the identification information of the control device 30A from the instrumentation database 20. Fifth, the management server 10 executes an input / output information transmission process (step S205). For example, the management server 10 transmits the input / output information acquired from the instrumentation database 20 to the control device 30A.

[0085] Sixth, the control device 30B executes an input / output setting request process (step S206). For example, when replacing the field device 40B of the control system B, the control device 30B transmits an input / output setting request including the identification information of the control device 30B to the management server 10. Seventh, the management server 10 executes an input / output information reference process (step S207). For example, the management server 10 searches the individual information storage unit 21 of the instrumentation database 20 based on the identification information of the control device 30B. Eighth, the instrumentation database 20 executes an input / output information output process (step S208). For example, the instrumentation database 20 outputs input / output information corresponding to the identification information of the control device 30B to the management server 10. Ninth, the management server 10 executes an input / output information reception process (step S209). For example, the management server 10 receives input / output information corresponding to the identification information of the control device 30B from the instrumentation database 20. Tenth, the management server 10 executes an input / output information transmission process (step S210). For example, the management server 10 transmits the input / output information acquired from the instrumentation database 20 to the control device 30B.

[0086] (3-3. Input / Output Information Setting Process Flow) The flow of input / output information setting processing of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described below. Note that the processing of steps S301 to S304 below can be executed in a different order. Also, among the processing of steps S301 to S304 below, some processing may be omitted.

[0087] First, the control device 30A executes an API call process (step S301). For example, the control device 30A calls a common API based on the received input / output information. Second, the control device 30A executes an input / output setting process (step S302). For example, the control device 30A calls an input / output setting API for each system vendor associated with the common API, and sets the input / output modules of the control device 30A.

[0088] Third, the control device 30B executes API call processing (step S303). For example, the control device 30B calls a common API based on the received input / output information. Fourth, the control device 30B executes input / output setting processing (step S304). For example, the control device 30B calls an input / output setting API for each system vendor associated with the common API, and sets the input / output modules of the control device 30B.

[0089] 4. Effects of the embodiment Finally, effects of the embodiment will be described below: Effects 1 to 10 corresponding to the processing according to the embodiment will be described below.

[0090] (4-1. Effect 1) First, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the control device 30 transmits a request for input / output settings of data to the management server 10, receives input / output information defining the input / output settings associated with each control device 30 that controls the system from the management server 10, and executes the input / output settings of the control device itself based on the received input / output information. Therefore, in this process, engineering related to the input / output settings of data of the automation system can be efficiently performed while preventing human error.

[0091] (4-2. Effect 2) Secondly, in the process according to the embodiment described above, when the control device 30 receives input / output information from the management server 10 to which a request for input / output settings of data has been transmitted, the control device 30 uses the input / output information to call an API corresponding to the input / output settings, and executes settings of the input / output module of the device itself. Therefore, in this process, by automatically executing input / output settings that differ for each control system, engineering of input / output settings of data of an automation system can be efficiently performed while preventing human error.

[0092] (4-3. Effect 3) Thirdly, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the control device 30 uses the input / output information to call an API common to the control system related to the input / output settings, calls an API corresponding to the input / output settings different for each control system, and executes the settings of the input / output module of the control device 30. Therefore, in this process, by automatically executing the input / output settings common to the control system and the input / output settings different for each control system, it is possible to efficiently carry out engineering related to the input / output settings of data in the automation system while preventing human error.

[0093] (4-4. Effect 4) Fourth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the control device 30 receives input / output information that defines the input / output type of data in each input / output channel of the control device 30, which is associated with the identification information of the control device 30. Therefore, in this process, input / output settings are automatically performed using the input / output information specific to the control device 30, thereby making it possible to efficiently carry out engineering related to input / output settings of data in an automation system while preventing human error.

[0094] (4-5. Effect 5) Fifth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the management server 10 acquires input / output information when it receives an input / output setting request transmitted from the control device 30 when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 for the first time, or when the control device 30 is connected to the communication network including the management server 10 after a change in the system configuration. Therefore, in this process, input / output settings are automatically executed when the control system is connected to the communication network for the first time or after a change in connection, thereby making it possible to efficiently carry out engineering related to input / output settings for data in the automation system while preventing human error.

[0095] (4-6. Effect 6) Sixth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the control device 30 complies with OPA, MTP, or NOA. Therefore, in this process, engineering related to input / output settings of data for automation systems, which are becoming increasingly unified as international standards, can be efficiently performed while preventing human error.

[0096] (4-7. Effect 7) Seventh, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the control device 30 complies with OPC UA. Therefore, in this process, engineering related to input / output settings of data for an automation system that complies with OPC UA can be efficiently performed while preventing human error.

[0097] (4-8. Effect 8) Eighth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the control device 30 controls the plant. Therefore, in this process, engineering related to input / output settings of data for an automation system of a plant where safety is required can be efficiently performed while preventing human error.

[0098] (4-9. Effect 9) Ninthly, in the process according to the embodiment described above, when the management server 10 receives a data input / output setting request for the control device 30, the management server 10 acquires input / output information that defines the input / output settings associated with each control device 30, and transmits the input / output information to the control device 30 that received the data input / output setting request. Therefore, in this process, by utilizing the management server 10, engineering related to data input / output settings of the automation system can be efficiently performed while preventing human error.

[0099] (4-10. Effect 10) Tenth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, when the management server 10 receives a data input / output setting request, it refers to a predetermined database that stores input / output information, and acquires input / output information associated with each identification information of the control device 30 that received the data input / output setting request. Therefore, in this process, input / output settings are automatically performed using input / output information for each control device 30 that has been registered in advance, thereby making it possible to efficiently carry out engineering related to the input / output settings of data for an automation system while preventing human error.

[0100] 〔system〕 The information including the processing procedures, control procedures, specific names, various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed arbitrarily unless otherwise specified.

[0101] In addition, each component of each device shown in the figure is a functional concept, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure. In other words, all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0102] Furthermore, each processing function performed by each device may be realized, in whole or in part, by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or may be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0103] [Hardware] Next, a hardware configuration example of the management server 10, which is an information processing device, will be described. Other devices such as the control device 30 can also have a similar hardware configuration. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a hardware configuration example according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the management server 10 has a communication device 10a, a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 10b, a memory 10c, and a processor 10d. Moreover, each unit shown in FIG. 6 is connected to each other via a bus or the like.

[0104] The communication device 10a is a network interface card or the like, and communicates with other servers. The HDD 10b stores programs and databases that operate the functions shown in FIG.

[0105] The processor 10d reads out a program that executes the same processes as the respective processing units shown in FIG. 3 from the HDD 10b, etc., and loads it in the memory 10c, thereby operating a process that executes each function described in FIG. 3, etc. For example, this process executes a function similar to that of each processing unit possessed by the management server 10. Specifically, the processor 10d reads out a program having functions similar to those of the reception unit 13a, the acquisition unit 13b, the transmission unit 13c, etc., from the HDD 10b, etc. Then, the processor 10d executes a process that executes the same processes as those of the reception unit 13a, the acquisition unit 13b, the transmission unit 13c, etc.

[0106] In this way, the management server 10 operates as a device that executes various processing methods by reading and executing a program. The management server 10 can also realize functions similar to those of the above-mentioned embodiment by reading the program from a recording medium using a media reading device and executing the read program. Note that the program in this other embodiment is not limited to being executed by the management server 10. For example, the present invention can be similarly applied to cases where another computer or server executes a program, or where these execute a program in cooperation with each other.

[0107] This program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. This program can also be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, a magneto-optical disk (MO), or a digital versatile disk (DVD), and can be executed by being read out from the recording medium by a computer.

[0108] 〔others〕 Some examples of combinations of the disclosed technical features are set out below.

[0109] (1) A control device comprising: a transceiver unit that transmits a request for input / output setting of data to an information processing device, and receives input / output information from the information processing device that defines the input / output setting associated with each control device that executes control of a system; and a setting unit that executes the input / output setting of the control device itself based on the received input / output information.

[0110] (2) The control device described in (1), wherein when the setting unit receives the input / output information from the information processing device to which the request was sent, the setting unit uses the input / output information to call an application programming interface corresponding to the input / output setting and performs setting of the input / output module of the device itself.

[0111] (3) The control device described in (2), wherein the setting unit uses the input / output information to call an application programming interface common to the system regarding the input / output settings, and further calls an application programming interface corresponding to the input / output settings which differ for each system, and performs configuration of the input / output modules of the device itself.

[0112] (4) A control device described in any one of (1) to (3), wherein the transceiver unit receives the input / output information defining the input / output type of data in each input / output channel of the control device, which is associated with each identification information of the control device.

[0113] (5) A control device described in any one of (1) to (4), wherein the transceiver unit transmits the request to the information processing device when the control device is connected to a communications network including the information processing device for the first time, or when a control system including the control device is connected to the communications network after a change in system configuration.

[0114] (6) The control device according to any one of (1) to (5), which is compliant with OPA, MTP, or NOA.

[0115] (7) The control device according to any one of (1) to (6), which is compliant with OPC UA.

[0116] (8) The control device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the control device executes control of a plant.

[0117] (9) A setting method in which a computer executes a process in which the computer sends a request for input / output setting of data to an information processing device, receives input / output information from the information processing device that defines the input / output setting associated with each control device that executes control of the system, and executes the input / output setting of the device based on the received input / output information.

[0118] (10) A setting program that causes a computer to execute a process of sending a request for data input / output settings to an information processing device, receiving input / output information from the information processing device that defines the input / output settings associated with each control device that executes control of the system, and executing the input / output settings of the device based on the received input / output information.

[0119] (11) An information processing device comprising: an acquisition unit that, when a request for input / output settings of data in a control device that executes control of a system is received, acquires input / output information defining the input / output settings associated with each of the control devices; and a transmission unit that transmits the input / output information to the control device from which the request was received.

[0120] (12) The information processing device described in (11), wherein when the acquisition unit receives the request, it refers to a predetermined database that stores the input / output information and acquires the input / output information associated with each identification information of the control device for which the request was accepted. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 10 Management Server 11 Communications Department 12 Storage section 13 Control section 13a Reception 13b Acquisition part 13c Transmitter 20 Instrumentation Database 30 Control Equipment 31 Control Unit 31a Executive Department 31b Transmitter / receiver 31c Setting section 32 Communications Department 40 Field Devices 100 Automation Systems

Claims

1. a transmitting / receiving unit that transmits a request for input / output setting of data to an information processing device and receives input / output information that defines the input / output setting associated with each control device that executes control of the system from the information processing device; A setting unit that executes the input / output setting of the device itself based on the received input / output information; A control device comprising:

2. The setting unit is when the input / output information is received from the information processing device to which the request was transmitted, the input / output information is used to call an application programming interface corresponding to the input / output setting, and the setting of an input / output module of the device is executed.

2. The control device of claim 1.

3. The setting unit is Using the input / output information, an application programming interface common to the systems related to the input / output settings is called, and an application programming interface corresponding to the input / output settings different for each system is further called, thereby executing the setting of an input / output module of the own device.

3. The control device according to claim 2.

4. The transmitting / receiving unit is receiving the input / output information that defines an input / output type of data in each input / output channel of the control device, the input / output information being associated with each identification information of the control device; 2. The control device of claim 1.

5. The transmitting / receiving unit is transmitting the request to the information processing device when the control device is connected to a communication network including the information processing device for the first time, or when a control system including the control device is connected to the communication network after a change in system configuration; 2. The control device of claim 1.

6. The control device complies with OPA (Open Process Automation), MTP (Module Type Package), or NOA (NAMUR Open Architecture). A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The control device complies with OPC UA (Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture). A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. The control device executes control of the plant. A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. The computer Transmitting a request for input / output setting of data to an information processing device, and receiving input / output information defining the input / output setting associated with each control device that executes control of the system from the information processing device; Executing the input / output setting of the device itself based on the received input / output information. The setting method to perform the action.

10. On the computer, Transmitting a request for input / output setting of data to an information processing device, and receiving input / output information defining the input / output setting associated with each control device that executes control of the system from the information processing device; Executing the input / output setting of the device itself based on the received input / output information. A configuration program that executes the process.

11. an acquisition unit that acquires input / output information defining the input / output settings associated with each control device when a request for input / output settings of data in a control device that controls the system is received; a transmission unit that transmits input / output information to the control device from which the request has been accepted; An information processing device comprising:

12. The acquisition unit is When the request is accepted, a predetermined database that stores the input / output information is referred to, and the input / output information associated with each identification information of the control device for which the request is accepted is acquired. The information processing device according to claim 11.

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