Computer-aided method for providing adaptation specifications for electrotechnical installation techniques.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method (100) for computer-aided provision of adaptation specifications for electro-technical installation engineering, preferably for electrical sensor systems and / or actuator systems in a machine (10), in particular for an electro-technical system (10), preferably an automation system, comprising a step (101) of determining an operational specification, which specifies user-defined operations in which at least parts of the machine (10) are to be modified and / or extended and / or replaced for maintenance of the machine (10), and which is provided to achieve and / or extend and / or restore functionality of the machine (10); a step (102) of automatically identifying, through the evaluation (102), at least one adaptation to the machine (10) based on the structure, where the machine specification specifies at least one structure of the machine (10), which is required to perform user-defined actions to achieve and / or restore functionality of the machine (10); a step (103) of generating an adaptation specification based on the performed evaluation (102), where the adaptation specification specifies the at least one identified adaptation; and a step (104) of providing an adaptation specification for maintenance of the machine (10).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a computer-aided method for providing change specifications for electrotechnical installation techniques, and further to a computer program and apparatus for this purpose. [Background technology]

[0002] Latest Technology It is well known that electrical plants require periodic maintenance after installation and start-up, and in this situation parts of the machine may need to be replaced. Maintenance can become problematic when replacement parts are not available or when the requirements of the machine change. In such cases, it often takes a lot of effort to identify alternative replacement parts and use them for this purpose.

[0003] It is known from the state of the art that electrotechnical plants are not only designed with a central topology with a central control cabinet, but also, alternatively or additionally, can have a distributed topology, which allows actuators and sensors to be at least partly decentrally connected via connection modules to a central control device such as a PLC. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The object of the present invention is to at least partially eliminate the above-mentioned drawbacks, in particular to enable improved installation and maintenance of parts of electrotechnical machines.

[0005] The subject of the invention is a method having the features of claim 1, a computer program having the features of claim 14 and an apparatus having the features of claim 15. Further features and details of the invention are evident from the respective subclaims, the description and the drawings. Cross-reference is made or can always be made to the individual aspects of the invention in the context of the present disclosure, since features and details explained in relation to the method according to the invention naturally also apply in relation to the computer program according to the invention and the apparatus according to the invention, and vice versa in each case.

[0006] The object of the invention is a computer-aided method for providing modification specifications for at least one machine part and / or electrotechnical plant, preferably an automation plant, in particular for electrotechnical installation technology, preferably for devices in machines and / or electrical sensor technology and / or actuator technology. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The mechanical part may advantageously, within the scope of the present invention, comprise at least one of the following: at least one sensor; at least one actuator; at least one connection module; - at least one adapter, - at least one distributor; - at least one switch, - at least one hub, - at least one electrical fuse; - at least one power supply unit, - at least one switch, - at least one safety device; - at least one or more protection systems, - at least one lighting system, at least one signal converter; - at least one or more electrical transformers, - at least one cable, - at least one camera, - at least one image analysis tool, - at least one display, - at least one operating element; - at least one generator, - at least one terminal box; -At least one connector.

[0008] "Electrotechnical installation technology" refers in particular to (and includes in particular) measures for the installation and / or maintenance of such machines, in particular electrical plant, in particular for the maintenance and / or expansion and / or networking and / or new creation and / or rescheduling, in particular with the aim of ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of power and / or signals in the machines, preferably electrical plant, as well as the specified function of the machines.

[0009] The machine can be designed as a (real) electrotechnical plant and can therefore have various spatially distributed and decentralized components and one or more control units. The control unit can, for example, include at least one PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and / or at least one industrial computer. The control unit or at least one of the control units can also be designated or designed as a central control device. In the context of the present invention, components are also called machine parts and can include, for example, electrical components such as actuators and sensors. Sensors can be designed to record machine (or plant) states or measurements, such as temperature, pressure, or speed. Actuators can be designed to generate mechanical effects. For this purpose, actuators can include, for example, motors, pumps, and / or valves. Furthermore, actuators can be controlled by at least one control unit, and sensors can be evaluated by at least one control unit. To enable this, at least one control unit and machine parts can be connected to each other via a distribution module. A communication network, such as a fieldbus or industrial Ethernet, can also be provided to connect at least one control unit and / or the distribution module and / or possibly at least some of the machine parts. Additionally, an operation and monitoring system may be provided, which may include, for example, an interface such as a touch screen or display device that provides information to an operator and allows control input. Additionally, monitoring components and protective devices may be provided that safely shut down the machine (or plant) or place it in a safe state in the event of a malfunction or dangerous situation. This enables the machine, and in particular the automation system, to perform processes automatically, efficiently, repeatedly, and with high precision.

[0010] The method according to the invention may comprise a first method step of determining a countermeasure specification. The countermeasure specification may specify user-defined countermeasures intended to modify and / or supplement and / or replace at least parts of the machine for machine maintenance and / or to maintain and / or supplement and / or restore functionality of the machine. Thus, the countermeasure specification may be, for example, a user input in which an operator's desired countermeasure is technically specified.

[0011] Furthermore, the method according to the invention may, according to a further method step, comprise an evaluation of a machine specification, the machine specification specifying at least the structure of the machine, the evaluation preferably using a structure that automatically identifies at least one modification to the machine that is required to implement user-defined countermeasures to maintain and / or restore functionality of the machine.

[0012] Furthermore, according to a further method step, the method according to the invention may comprise the step of generating a change specification based on the performed evaluation, the change specification specifying at least one identified change.

[0013] Finally, according to a further method step, the method according to the invention can comprise the step of providing a change specification for the maintenance of the machine.

[0014] The method steps may be performed sequentially and / or iteratively and may be initiated, for example, by a user inputting a countermeasure specification.

[0015] The method may have the advantage of simplifying and improving computer-aided maintenance of machines. In other words, it may be possible to propose automatic modifications to existing machines (with existing topologies) that are necessary or useful for maintenance measures. The modification specifications may be provided in a computer-aided manner, in which a data processing device performs at least some or all of the aforementioned method steps. Thus, the method according to the invention may also be computer-implemented.

[0016] The term "computer-aided" is understood to mean in particular that an operator works on the actual machine while his work is supported by at least one data processing device, such as a computer. For this purpose, the change specification is generated, for example, based on digital processing by at least one data processing device, and output to the operator. The output may be, for example, visually via a display means, such as a display, and / or acoustically via a speaker. The change specification may include text information that clearly specifies to the operator what type of change should be made and / or how the change should be made. The change specification may therefore include at least one of the following: - the type of modification, for example, replacement of a machine part and / or modification of at least one connection and / or modification and / or replacement of at least one distribution module, -Work on machines with the intention of making modifications, for example shutting down machine parts and / or cable assemblies and / or ordering replacement parts, - location of the change, e.g., machine points and / or segments, -Determining the time and / or duration of changes, e.g. maintenance periods; -Specification of at least one part required for the modification, e.g., a replacement part and / or at least one distribution module.

[0017] Similarly, a countermeasure specification may include at least one of the following: - type of measures, for example, replacement of machine parts and / or modification of at least one connection and / or maintenance work and / or preservation and / or addition and / or restoration of machine functions, -Working with machines designed for countermeasures, - location of the measure, e.g. points and / or segments of the machine, - the time and / or duration of the measures to be implemented; - the specification of at least one part required for the measure, preferably a mechanical part, e.g. a replacement part; - the specifications of the parts of the machine to be modified and / or supplemented and / or replaced, -Specifications of the machine functions to be maintained and / or supplemented and / or restored.

[0018] The countermeasure specification can be obtained, for example, by user input and / or from the output of a predictive maintenance system, etc. Receiving the countermeasure specification from the predictive maintenance system makes it possible to execute countermeasures in the form of machine or plant maintenance work based on the automatic predictions.

[0019] The change specification may specify the identified changes, which may include, for example, changes in the programming of the control device and / or changes in input and output addresses and / or changes in replacement parts. A change in replacement part may occur, for example, if a replacement part specified according to the countermeasure specification is unavailable. Thus, the change specification may specify an alternative replacement part in that case. At least two situations may arise: The replacement part specified according to the countermeasure specification is a replacement part of the same type as the replacement part specified according to the change specification, but has different technical specifications (e.g., requirements for the replacement part regarding single-channel or double-channel configuration and / or requirements regarding power requirements, etc.). Further modifications to the machine may then be decided, such as the installation and / or replacement of at least one distribution module that supports the corresponding requirements. For example, in order to use the adapted replacement part, an existing distribution module of the machine that supports a single channel needs to be replaced with a distribution module that supports a double channel. The replacement part specified in accordance with the countermeasure specification is a different type of replacement part from the replacement part specified in accordance with the change specification. For example, the replacement part specified in accordance with the countermeasure specification may be a photoelectric sensor that needs to be replaced. If the evaluation determines that this replacement part is unavailable, a different type of replacement part may be considered. Thus, the evaluation may also determine a change to provide a different type of replacement part, such as a mechanical and / or reed switch and / or ultrasonic proximity sensor, as an alternative replacement part. This may result in further changes being required to use the alternative replacement part. These may also be indicated by the change specification.

[0020] Further, a machine specification may be provided. The machine specification may digitally specify the structure of the machine, for example, by at least one circuit diagram and / or mechanical and / or electrical diagram, each of which may be digitally available in a data memory and / or part of the machine specification. Furthermore, identifiers, such as equipment identifiers and / or part numbers and / or manufacturer numbers and / or serial numbers of parts used in the machine, may also be available and / or evaluated based on the machine specification. The foregoing information may be used to automatically identify at least one change to the machine that is necessary to specify the structure accordingly and to perform user-defined measures to maintain and / or restore functionality of the machine. The automatic evaluation may include, for example, at least one of the following measures: - determining the identifiers of the machine parts specified by the countermeasure specification; - checking whether a specified machine part is available for the countermeasure using the specially determined identifier; -Evaluating at least one database containing information on the availability of machine parts for testing; - determining alternative machine parts when the designated machine parts are unavailable for the countermeasure; - testing alternative machine parts against the countermeasures, for example by simulating the function of the machine when the alternative machine part is used and / or by comparing the technical specifications of the specified machine part with the alternative machine part to determine the suitability and / or rating of the alternative machine part; - checking whether and which changes to the machine lead to improved suitability and / or evaluation, for example by simulating the functioning of various changes to the machine, where the various changes are tested according to a predefined rule-based algorithm, for example rule-based, - Identifying at least one change to the machine, where the change that results in the highest suitability and / or rating is identified.

[0021] Furthermore, within the scope of the present invention, the evaluation of the machine specifications may optionally include the following steps, which are automatically performed by an analysis program: - analyzing the machine in terms of a topology that may be at least partially decentralized and evaluating and / or simulating the machine parts and / or distribution modules of the machine, as well as their connections and / or functions, preferably segment by segment and / or iteratively based on the machine specifications; and Preferably, the machine specification specifies a topology with regard to the arrangement of distribution modules provided for the decentralized connection of the machine components to the control device for the electrical and / or signal-technical control and / or evaluation of the machine components on the basis of control commands transmitted from the control device to the distribution modules via the fieldbus, Preferably, the change specification specifies a change to the topology and / or at least one of the machine components and / or at least one of the distribution modules to enable the user-defined countermeasures to be implemented; Preferably, the countermeasure specification specifies the replacement of at least one of the machine components, especially if the replaced machine component is in a faulty state. The analysis program may, for example, include a rule-based algorithm for automatically evaluating various changes. For this purpose, a simulation of the machine's functionality is also performed by the analysis program, thereby allowing the impact of the changes on functionality to be ascertained. In this way, the suitability and / or rating of each change can be determined. Advantageously, this enables the analysis program to determine the change that results in the highest rating and / or suitability for the identified change.

[0022] The machine specification may also include an installation specification, including a digitized electrical diagram and / or a digitized mechanical blueprint of the machine, for specifying the structure of the machine at least at the time of installation and / or subsequent modifications. Accordingly, the machine specification may include machine control information for specifying the function of the machine at least at the time of installation and / or subsequent modifications. Furthermore, the at least one identified modification may include a modification of the machine control information. The machine control information may include and / or specify at least one of input / output parameters and / or connection specifications, such as programs and / or commands and / or addresses, in each case controlling at least one machine component and / or at least one distribution module. More specifically, the machine control information may specify specific data, instructions, and / or parameters required to control the workflow or process of the machine or plant. The machine control information may include, for example, a sequence of commands and logic used by a central control device, such as a programmable logic controller (PLC), and may be encoded in a special (particularly PLC) program. The logic may be, for example, control logic written in a language understandable by the PLC (e.g., LAD, STL, FBD). These logics define how the machine should react to certain inputs or conditions. Input / output parameters may define the use of interfaces to machine components and / or distribution modules, allowing inputs, such as input parameters, and outputs, such as instructions to a motor or valve, to be used, i.e., received and / or sent. Machine control information may define the connections (i.e., through which ports, and / or through which communication networks, and / or through which addresses) over which inputs are received and / or outputs are sent. Thus, the machine control information is dependent on the specific structure of the machine, and this structure may be altered by the identified change. Thus, the identified change may include modifying the machine control information to take this change into account while ensuring machine functionality.

[0023] For example, providing a change specification may include at least the following steps: outputting customized machine control information in the form of a machine control file and / or a configuration file, preferably based on an IO device description and / or a GSD markup language structure, and / or a sensor configuration; and The at least one identified change preferably includes a change in device address and / or device identifier and / or input / output address in the machine control information for controlling at least one machine component, preferably via a central control device, particularly preferably a PLC. Thus, the machine control information, particularly in the form of a control file or configuration file, can contain detailed information and / or parameters for reliably controlling and configuring machines and plants. Standardized formats such as the IO Device Description (IO-DD) and the GSD Markup Language (GSDML) are particularly important here. IO-DD standardizes the properties and functions of IO devices, such as sensors and actuators, thus facilitating their integration into control systems. GSDML, an XML-based language, describes device properties in PROFINET systems, for example. It is often provided by device manufacturers and can be used for machine installation and maintenance. Furthermore, the machine control information can include at least one sensor configuration file, which indicates the specific settings of sensors and thereby ensures their correct functioning within the machine. Thus, the machine control information significantly simplifies and optimizes the installation and commissioning of machine components on the machine.

[0024] Furthermore, providing a change specification involves at least the following steps: - guiding the user step by step to carry out user-defined measures, taking into account the identified changes, preferably by specifying the connections and / or the order of connections and / or the connection specifications of the connection of at least one machine part, in order to integrate the replacement part into the machine; may be included.

[0025] The step-by-step guidance may be output, for example, by an output device, for example visually by a display and / or acoustically by a speaker and / or by augmented reality. The guidance may, for example, include a plurality of instructions, in particular at least one of the following: -Safety instructions ("Before starting maintenance, ensure the machine is powered off and the actuators are disconnected from the power source" or "If possible, make a backup of all important data and configurations"), - preparation instructions ("Please determine the current state of the machine"); - localization instructions ("Please locate the specific machine part that needs maintenance"); -Test instructions ("Check the connection arrangement"), -Installation instructions ("Disconnect any physical connections or connectors to machine parts"; "Follow the specific instructions displayed on the computer to perform the actual maintenance procedure"); -Final instructions ("After completing the maintenance work, ensure that all connections and ports of the machine parts are restored correctly and safely").

[0026] Additionally, the step-by-step guidance may include controlling and / or evaluating at least one mechanical component, which may be used to provide instructions to the operator (e.g., illuminating a light from a connection when a cable is connected) or to confirm that the guidance was performed correctly (e.g., by verifying the connection).

[0027] Advantageously, in the context of the present invention, the modification specification may be provided by outputting adapted digitized circuit diagrams and / or designs, preferably based on ECAD or MCAD structures and / or machine topology. The modification of said specifications, such as circuit diagrams and / or designs and / or ECAD (Electronic Computer Aided Design) or MCAD (Mechanical Computer Aided Design) structures and / or topology, may be performed, for example, by the following steps: - Importing the specification, for example by importing a file -Checking the imported file, especially the plans and / or structures defined therein, for errors or missing elements - modifying and / or adding elements and / or parts, preferably from a component library, e.g. an ECAD or MCAD library; - automatically checking and / or establishing and / or modifying connections between components using routing algorithms; - Verifying that the changes are correct and functional using simulation, for example by checking the electrical functional capacity of the circuit diagram (especially ECAD) and / or structural or motion analysis (especially MCAD). - Updating documentation, preferably parts lists and / or connection diagrams of the machine The method can be computer-assisted by at least one of:

[0028] The change specification may be provided, for example, by visually and / or digitally and / or acoustically and / or physically (e.g., by printout on paper) outputting the adapted specification and / or updated document.

[0029] Preferably, in the context of the present invention, the evaluation may be based on rule-based algorithms and / or machine simulations to analyze individual parts of the machine in response to user-defined countermeasures with respect to at least one identified change. Simulations may be used for the evaluation, for example, in the form of ECAD or MCAD simulation tools and / or simulation tools based thereon. Furthermore, the simulations may be used to analyze electrical curves and / or component behavior and / or mechanical and / or electrical loads (such as energy consumption and heat generation).

[0030] Optionally, preferably based on a simulation of the user-defined measures and the at least one identified change, an automatic check may be performed to ensure that functionality is maintained and / or added and / or restored, and preferably compliance with technical specifications, when the user-defined measures are implemented on the machine.

[0031] Optionally, the evaluation includes the following steps: - selecting at least one replacement part from a replacement parts catalogue, preferably in the form of an electronic database, -Step to determine the technical specifications of this replacement part can also include At least one change is identified based on the determined technical specifications. In the database, the replacement part may be designated and retrieved, for example, by manufacturer and / or serial number and / or part number. Further, additional information may be provided, such as technical specifications and / or compatibility with other parts and / or availability (e.g., available quantity) and / or cost information. This allows for reliable identification of the appropriate replacement part.

[0032] According to another possibility, to determine the machine specifications, at least the following steps are carried out: determining the actual structure of the machine, preferably by determining the electromechanical components actually installed on the machine and / or their topology; may be executed.

[0033] Particularly for existing machines, the actual structure, and in particular the actual topology, may deviate from the originally planned structure and thus from the machine specifications. Therefore, it may be useful to automatically determine the machine's current structure and, if necessary, update the machine specifications accordingly. By evaluating the updated machine specifications, it is possible to reliably determine whether countermeasures need to be adapted to the actual structure. This determination may also involve reading and / or querying the electrical components actually installed on the machine and their topology. To determine the actual structure, for example, the actual machine may be used to receive and / or determine the identifiers of the machine components. For example, a communication network may be used to receive signals from the components and / or distribution modules, which indicate the identities of the components and / or distribution modules and / or their interconnections, and thus the topology. If components cannot be directly read via the communication network, for example, in the case of actuators such as motors, information about the component identities and topology may be obtained via the distribution module.

[0034] According to an advantageous further development of the invention, the evaluation, preferably the automatic optimization of the simulation within the evaluation, may be performed on the basis of user-defined criteria, which user-defined criteria comprise at least one of the following: - general conditions for user-defined measures, - at least one user-defined preference regarding the intended application of the machine; - the specified maximum installation time of replacement and / or additional parts for the machine, - the technical effort and / or complexity for which the assessment is optimized; - availability of parts for which the evaluation is optimized, -Manufacturer's specifications for additional parts to be installed on the machine as part of the user-defined measures.

[0035] This provides a sufficient data base for the changes.

[0036] For example, it is assumed that the machine specification specifies the topology of a plurality of distribution modules of the machine, these distribution modules being preferably divided into active and passive types, the active distribution modules, in contrast to the passive distribution modules, being connected to a central control unit via a data connection in order to control the machine components connected to the distribution modules based on the data connection, and the at least one identified change is one of the following changes, namely: - Changing the addressing of machine parts via a data connection, - selection of the type of distribution module included in the machine, -Selection of the number of connections of the distribution modules included in the machine; -Selection of cables and / or adapters and / or distributors for machines, Selection of the type of distribution module to be included in the machine depending on the machine components, in particular electrical components, connected to the machine, preferably depending on at least one requirement of sensor technology and / or actuator technology. The type of distribution module may be considered in the evaluation, to include at least one of:

[0037] The requirements may include connection requirements, such as a requirement that at least one of the following connections must be present on a component: IO-Link, data, signal, analog, digital, M5, M8, M12, port, Class A, Class B, Di (digital input), Do (digital output), or DIO (digital input / output). The requirements may also specify at least one electrical characteristic requirement, such as a current requirement. IO-Link may be a connection for using standardized IO technology, particularly enabling communication with sensors and actuators. Data connections may be provided for exchanging information, particularly in digital or analog form. Thus, signal connections may enable the input and / or output of analog or digital signals. Furthermore, M8 (connector type M8) and M12 (connector type M12) may be designed as connector types specifically used in industrial automation. Class A (particularly ports with low power requirements) and Class B (particularly ports with high power requirements) may represent different categories of IO-Link ports on a component. Di (digital input) can be an input signal with only two states, while Do (digital output) can be an output signal that also has only two states. A DIO (digital input / output) connection can be designed as both an input and an output.

[0038] Further advantages can be achieved within the scope of the present invention if the machine is controlled and / or structured and / or adapted based on the provided modification specifications.

[0039] Another object of the invention is an apparatus for processing data, comprising means for carrying out the steps of the method according to the invention, which apparatus therefore has the same advantages as those explained in detail with reference to the method according to the invention.

[0040] Another object of the invention is a computer program, in particular a computer program product, comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to the invention. The computer program according to the invention therefore has the same advantages as those explained in detail with reference to the method according to the invention.

[0041] The computer may be a data processing device that executes a computer program, such as a device according to the invention. The computer may have at least one processor for executing the computer program. A non-volatile data memory may also be provided, the non-volatile data memory having the computer program stored therein and capable of being read by the processor from the non-volatile data memory for execution.

[0042] It is also conceivable that the computer includes at least one integrated circuit, such as a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application-specific standard product (ASSP), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The computer may further include at least one interface for data exchange, for example, an Ethernet interface, a LAN (local area network), a WLAN (wireless local area network), an interface for a system-on-chip (SoC), or other wireless interfaces, such as Bluetooth or near-field communication (NFC). Furthermore, the computer may be designed as one or more controllers, i.e., a system of controllers. The computer may be provided in the cloud and / or as a server, for example, to provide data processing for local applications via an interface. The computer may also be designed as a mobile device, such as a smartphone.

[0043] Another object of the invention can be a computer-readable storage medium containing a computer program according to the invention. The storage medium is designed, for example, as a data memory such as a hard disk and / or a non-volatile memory and / or a memory card. The storage medium may, for example, be integrated into the computer.

[0044] Furthermore, the methods according to the present invention may be implemented as computer-implemented methods.

[0045] Further advantages, features and details of the invention are set out in the following description, in which an embodiment of the invention is described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features described in the claims and in the specification may each individually or in any combination be essential to the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0046] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a central connection in the machine by means of a control cabinet. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates a distributed connection according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram for visualizing a method, a device, and a computer program according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0047] In the following figures, the same reference symbols are used for the same technical features in different embodiments.

[0048] Planning and modifying the topology of electrical distributed automation technology is a time-consuming process when performed by a human planner. Similarly, maintenance, e.g., servicing and replenishing machines, often requires significant effort. Described below are embodiments of the present invention that significantly improve planning and / or maintenance efficiency through automation based on machine specifications, such as mCAD and / or eCAD data. This can improve assembly efficiency in terms of optimal placement of parts, and can also improve implementation efficiency by providing change specifications to users, particularly operators.

[0049] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a centralized connection via a control cabinet 9 in contrast to the distributed connection via spatially distributed electrical modules 3, 4 of the machine 10 of FIG. 2 . The modules 3, 4 may include different types of distribution modules 30. In particular, the modules 3, 4 are divided into active and passive distribution modules 30. In this regard, the active distribution modules 30, in contrast to the passive distribution modules 30, may be connected to the central controller 20 via a data connection 50 to control the machine components 40 connected to the distribution modules 30 based on the data connection 50. In other words, unlike the active distribution modules 30, the passive distribution modules 30 may provide a “hardwired” connection between the controller 20 and the devices 5. This is particularly important to consider during evaluation 102 according to method 100. The machine components 40 may include devices 5 such as sensors and actuators.

[0050] Instead of connecting all devices 5 directly to a control cabinet 9 as shown in Figure 1, several modules 4 can be used as at least partial replacements for the control cabinet in the distributed connection of Figure 2. Like the control cabinet 9, these allow coupling the devices 5 with a control device 20, such as a PLC. However, the modules 4 can be provided in a decentralized and distributed manner near the devices 5. Thus, individual modules 4 only partially interconnect the devices 5, and the modules 4 can optionally perform the entire interconnection together via one and / or multiple hubs 6 respectively.

[0051] A master module 3 may be connected upstream of several individual modules 4 to allow central configuration and / or control of the modules 4. The interconnection may also be further subdivided by at least one hub 6.

[0052] Figure 3 shows a method 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention for computer-aided provision of change specifications for electro-technical installation technology, preferably for electrical sensor technology and / or actuator technology in a machine 10, in particular for an electro-technical plant 10, preferably an automation plant. Furthermore, Figure 3 shows an apparatus 1 and a computer program 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention, which can be provided for performing the method 100.

[0053] Maintenance of electrical automation technology is a complex task. This applies not only to centralized control cabinet concepts, but also to decentralized concepts where control modules are installed directly in the plant. The corresponding processes are carried out by various people, such as plant planners, electrical planners, installers, and system programmers. Modifying a machine requires a great deal of effort and precise knowledge of the machine's functional relationships so that the existing functionality can be maintained. Therefore, when replacing a faulty part, a replacement part of the same type is usually used.

[0054] One of the main challenges here is the modification and expansion of existing machines, especially for maintenance purposes. A faulty part of a machine may need to be replaced, or the machine may need to be supplemented or improved in functionality. To do this, the new part must be connected to the machine in a way that meets the existing requirements and maintains its functionality.

[0055] In addition to the maintenance measures, further modifications to the machine may be required to enable the maintenance measures to be implemented to meet existing or new requirements, especially if the machine's structure has changed since its initial installation and / or if replacement parts are less available. The method 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may automatically support the identification of such modifications.

[0056] According to a first method step 101, a countermeasure specification is first determined for this purpose. The countermeasure specification may specify user-defined countermeasures to modify and / or supplement and / or replace at least parts of the machine 10 for maintenance of the machine 10. The countermeasures may be provided to maintain and / or supplement and / or restore functionality of the machine 10.

[0057] According to a second method step 102, an assessment of a machine specification may be provided. The machine specification may specify at least a structure of the machine 10. The assessment 102 may use the structure to automatically identify at least one modification to the machine 10 that is required to implement a user-defined countermeasure to maintain and / or restore functionality of the machine 10.

[0058] According to a third method step 103, a change specification may be generated based on the performed evaluation 102, the change specification specifying at least one identified change. Then, according to a fourth method step 104, a change specification may be provided for maintenance of the machine 10.

[0059] The change specification may propose modification measures to be carried out in addition to the maintenance measures in order to further optimize the maintenance of the machine and / or to ensure technical feasibility with the resulting requirements of modified components and / or parts and / or the availability of replacement parts.

[0060] Automating the process for machine 10 maintenance makes the installer's work much easier and ensures an optimal system design. By taking into account the machine specifications, e.g., by reading mCAD and / or eCAD data, and, if necessary, by reading the electrical components actually installed on the machine and their topology, method 100 independently recognizes necessary changes and supports the gradual installation of replacement parts, if necessary. This can include, for example, instructions on which electrical components should be connected to each other and in what order these connections should be made. Based on the machine specifications and the preferably automatically generated topology, machine control files for modifying the programming of the controller 20 and parts lists for the automation technology used can also be created quickly and error-free. Simulations can also be performed to maintain the functionality of machine 10 even if the topology needs to be changed or if replacement parts of the same type are not available. Proposals for topology changes can be made automatically.

[0061] A specific example is the replacement of a light barrier. Typically, the replacement part must correspond to the type originally planned. However, if this replacement part is unavailable, very expensive (unnecessary cost), or difficult to obtain, another part (a different photoelectric sensor or a different type of detector) can be used. By using a different replacement part, it is even possible to improve the functionality of the machine. However, such a replacement with a different type of replacement part requires a lot of planning and sufficient knowledge of the machine 10. The method 100 makes it possible to automate this process. For example, it is also possible to propose a different light barrier or a different type of sensor to replace the light barrier to be replaced and specify changes for maintenance.

[0062] For example, the mechanical and / or electrical characteristics of the replacement part can be specified as a modification specification. For example, the digitally recorded topology can be used to evaluate whether and how the topology needs to be modified so that the functionality of the machine 10 is maintained after the replacement. For this purpose, the evaluation takes into account the replacement part's requirements, for example, for a single-channel or double-channel configuration. A variety of distributors (i.e., distribution modules) capable of supporting single or double channels can be selected or replaced as a modification. Depending on the configuration, the use of a T-piece can also allow two sensor technologies to be connected to one port as a modification. Depending on the output type (analog or digital) of the replacement part, an A / D converter can be included in the topology as an additional modification. If necessary, the pinout can also be adapted. Adapters can be used to resolve compatibility issues or expand functionality. Furthermore, ports can be programmed as both inputs and outputs for increased flexibility. This can also be part of the modification. To ensure plant safety, a safety port can also be added as a further modification. Furthermore, the power consumption of the electrical plant may need to be adjusted. For example, a different power source may be used or additional power sources may be installed to meet higher energy requirements or to increase the reliability of the power source.

[0063] The computer program 2 shown in FIG. 3 may further include an analysis program that enables the evaluation 102 of the machine specifications to be performed automatically. In this regard, the machine 10 may be analyzed with respect to its topology, which may have, at least in part, the distributed topology shown in FIG. 2. To this end, the machine components 40 and / or distribution modules 30 of the machine 10 and their connections and / or functions are preferably evaluated and / or simulated segment by segment and / or iteratively using the machine specifications. In FIG. 2, an exemplary segment 70 is shown as a dashed rectangle. The segment 70 may consist of functionally and / or spatially related portions of the machine 10.

[0064] The distribution module 30 allows for electrically and / or signal-wise control and / or evaluation of the machine components 40 based on control commands transmitted from the controller 20 to the distribution module 30 via the fieldbus 50. However, this requires knowledge of the topology of the distribution module 30, as shown, for example, in FIG. 2 . Thus, the machine specification may specify the topology for the arrangement of the distribution module 30. To this end, the machine specification may also include an installation specification including a digitized electrical diagram and / or a digitized mechanical design drawing of the machine 10 to specify the structure of the machine 10 at least upon installation and / or upon subsequent modifications. Furthermore, the machine specification may include machine control information to specify the function of the machine 10 at least upon installation and / or upon subsequent modifications.

[0065] Furthermore, the change specification may specify at least one modification, such as a change in topology and / or a modification to at least one of the machine components 40 and / or at least one of the distribution modules 30, to enable a user-defined countermeasure to be implemented. The countermeasure may consist, for example, of replacing a defective machine component 40 or adding functionality to the machine 10. In many cases, such a countermeasure cannot be implemented without further modification of the machine 10. The necessary, and particularly optimal, changes may be indicated by the change specification.

[0066] A change specification may be provided to implement countermeasures together with modifications of the machine 10 provided for this purpose. In particular, this should be understood as informing the user which modifications should be implemented. This may include guiding the user step by step to implement the user-defined countermeasures, taking into account the identified modifications. For this purpose, for example, connections and / or connection sequences, serial connections of devices and / or connections for the connection of at least one machine component 40 may be shown to implement the modifications. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the location of the modifications may be specified, for example, by specifying the segment 70 of the machine 10 where the modifications are to be made (see FIG. 2). The order and / or serial connections may be necessary to meet technical requirements, such as space and power requirements. The modifications according to the change specification may be necessary, for example, to automatically take these requirements into account.

[0067] The above description of the embodiments has been given by way of example only, and of course the individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, where technically appropriate, without departing from the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 1 equipment 2. Computer Programs 3 Master Module 4 Modules 5 Devices 6 Hub 9 Control Cabinet 10 machines 20 Control device, PLC 30 Distribution Module 40 Mechanical parts, motors, sensors 50 Fieldbus, Data Connections 70 segments 100 ways 101 First method step 102 Second Method Step, Evaluation 103 Third Method Step 104 Fourth Method Step

Claims

1. 1. A computer-aided method (100) for providing modification specifications for electro-technical installation technology, preferably for electrical sensor technology and / or actuator technology in a machine (10), in particular for an electro-technical plant (10), preferably an automation plant, comprising: - determining (101) a countermeasure specification, specifying user-defined countermeasures by which at least parts of said machine (10) are modified and / or supplemented and / or replaced for the maintenance of said machine (10), and provided to maintain and / or supplement and / or restore the functionality of said machine (10); - evaluating (102) a machine specification, said machine specification specifying at least one configuration of said machine (10), said evaluation (102) using said configuration to automatically identify at least one modification to said machine (10) that is required to implement said user-defined measures to maintain and / or restore said functionality of said machine (10); - generating (103) said change specification based on said performed evaluation (102), said change specification specifying said at least one identified change; - providing (104) said change specification for said maintenance of said machine (10); A method (100) comprising:

2. The evaluation (102) of the machine specifications comprises the following steps, which are performed automatically by an analysis program: - analyzing said machine (10) with respect to a topology that may be at least partially decentralized, in which the machine parts (40) and / or distribution modules (30) of said machine (10) and their connections and / or functions are evaluated and / or simulated segment by segment and / or iteratively, preferably based on said machine specification, the machine specification specifies the topology regarding the arrangement of the distribution modules (30) provided for decentralized connection of the machine components (40) to the control device (20) for electrical and / or signal-technical control and / or evaluation of the machine components (40) based on control commands transmitted from the control device (20) to the distribution modules (30) via a fieldbus (50); Preferably, said change specification specifies changes in said topology and / or at least one of said machine components (40) and / or at least one of said distribution modules (30) to enable said user-defined countermeasures to be implemented; Preferably, said countermeasure specification specifies the replacement of at least one of said mechanical parts (40), in particular if said replaced mechanical part (40) is in a defective state.

2. The method (100) of claim 1.

3. 3. The method (100) of claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the machine specifications include installation specifications including digitized electrical diagrams and / or digitized mechanical blueprints of the machine (10) for specifying the structure of the machine (10) at least at the time of installation and / or at any subsequent modification of the machine (10), and the machine specifications preferably include machine control information for specifying the function of the machine (10) at least at the time of installation and / or at any subsequent modification, and the at least one identified modification comprises an adaptation of the machine control information.

4. The provision of said change specification comprises at least the following steps: - outputting customized machine control information, preferably in the form of a machine control file and / or a configuration file, preferably based on an IO device description and / or a GSD markup language structure, and / or a sensor configuration; Including, Preferably, the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the at least one identified change comprises a change in a device address and / or a device identifier and / or an input and output address of the machine control information for controlling at least one machine part (40), preferably by a central control device (20), particularly preferably by a PLC.

5. The provision of said change specification comprises at least the following steps: - Method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises a step of guiding a user step by step to carry out said user-defined measures taking into account said identified changes, preferably by means of a connection display and / or a connection sequence and / or a connection display of the connections of at least one machine part (40) in order to integrate a replacement part into said machine.

6. The method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the modification specification is provided by outputting an adapted digitized circuit diagram and / or construction plan, preferably based on an ECAD or MCAD structure and / or a connection configuration of the machine (10).

7. 7. The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein the evaluation (102) is performed based on a rule-based algorithm and / or a simulation of the machine (10) to analyze individual parts of the machine (10) in response to the user-defined countermeasures with respect to the at least one identified change.

8. 8. The method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that an automatic check is performed, in which the maintenance and / or supplementation and / or restoration of functionality and preferably compliance with technical specifications when the user-defined measures are implemented on the machine (10), preferably based on a simulation of the user-defined measures and the at least one identified change.

9. The evaluation (102) further comprises the following steps: - selecting at least one replacement part from a replacement parts catalogue, preferably in the form of an electronic database; - determining the technical specifications of this replacement part; The method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that said at least one modification is identified on the basis of said determined technical specifications.

10. To determine the machine specifications, at least the following steps are performed: - determining the actual structure of said machine (10), preferably by determining said electromechanical components (40) actually installed on said machine (10) and / or their topology; and an identifier of the machine part (40) is received and / or determined on the basis of the actual machine (10).

11. The automatic optimization of the evaluation (102), preferably of the simulations within the evaluation (102), is performed based on user-defined criteria, said user-defined criteria being: - general conditions of said user-defined measures, - at least one user-defined preference regarding the intended application of said machine (10); - the specified maximum installation time of replacement and / or additional parts of said machine (10); the technical effort and / or complexity with which said evaluation (102) is optimized, - the availability of components for which said evaluation (102) is optimized; - manufacturer specifications of additional parts to be installed on the machine as part of the user-defined measures; The method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it comprises at least one of:

12. The machine specification specifies a topology of a plurality of distribution modules (30) of the machine (10), the distribution modules being preferably divided into active and passive types, the active distribution modules (30), in contrast to the passive distribution modules (30), being connected to a central control unit (20) via a data connection in order to control machine components (40) connected to the distribution modules (30) based on the data connection, and the at least one identified change includes the following changes: - changing the addressing of said mechanical part (40) via said data connection; - selection of said type of distribution module (30) included in said machine (10), - selection of the number of connections of the distribution modules (30) included in said machine (10), - selection of cables and / or adapters and / or distributors for said machine (10), - selection of the type of distribution module included in the machine (10) according to the machine components, in particular electrical components, to be connected, preferably according to the requirements of sensor technology and / or actuator technology; The method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the type of the distribution module (30) is taken into account in the evaluation (102) so that at least one of the following is included:

13. Method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the machine (10) is controlled and / or structured and / or adapted based on the provided change specification.

14. A computer program (2) comprising instructions that, when the computer program (2) is executed by a computer (1), cause the computer (1) to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A data processing device (1) configured to perform the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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