Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

To efficiently perform engineering related to a functional block of an automation system.SOLUTION: A management server 10 receives an information model in which information related to a system is structured, collects device information related to each control device 30 from each control device 30 that executes control of the system, and generates an import file capable of creating a functional block corresponding to each control device 30 on the basis of the received information model and the collected device information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

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

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4186383 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, it is difficult to efficiently perform engineering related to the function blocks (FBs) of an automation system. For example, with conventional technology, it is difficult to automatically assign function blocks, which are control applications for a plant, to each control device that makes up the automation system.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and has as its object to efficiently carry out engineering related to functional blocks of an automation system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a receiving unit that receives an information model that structures information about a system, a collecting unit that collects equipment information about each control device that controls the system from the control device, and a generating unit that generates an import file that can create a functional block corresponding to each control device based on the received information model and the collected equipment information.

[0007] An information processing method according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a computer receiving an information model that structures information about a system, collecting device information about each control device that controls the system from the control devices, and generating an import file that creates a function block corresponding to each control device based on the received information model and the collected device information.

[0008] An information processing program according to one embodiment of the present invention causes a computer to execute the following process: receive an information model that structures information about a system; collect device information about each control device that controls the system from the control devices; and generate an import file that creates functional blocks corresponding to each control device based on the received information model and the collected device information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to efficiently carry out engineering related to the functional blocks of an automation system. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an automation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of each device of an automation system according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an information model storage unit of a management server according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a device information storage unit of a management server according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an import file storage unit of the management server according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the overall flow of an automation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] An information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

[0012] 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.

[0013] 1. Configuration and Processing of Automation System 100 The configuration and processing of an automation system 100 according to an embodiment will be described using Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the automation system 100 according to an embodiment. Below, an example of the overall configuration of the automation system 100, an example of the overall processing of the automation system 100, and the effects of the automation system 100 will be described. Note that in the embodiment, an example of factory production remote monitoring using plant equipment that is equipment installed in a plant will be described, but the target equipment and application field are not limited, and the system can also be applied to environmental measurement remote monitoring such as power monitoring, wind power generation, water and sewage monitoring, and river monitoring.

[0014] (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 engineer terminal 20 which is an administrator terminal, control devices 30 (30A, 30B, ...), and field devices 40 (40A, 40B). Here, the management server 10, the engineer terminal 20, the control devices 30, and the field devices 40 are connected to each other via a predetermined communication network (not shown) so that they can communicate with each other by wire or wirelessly. Note that the predetermined communication network can be any of various communication networks such as the Internet or a dedicated line.

[0015] (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 that has an OPC UA client function, or the like. Note that the automation system 100 shown in FIG. 1 may include multiple management servers 10. Furthermore, the management server 10 may be realized in a cloud environment, an on-premise environment, an edge environment, or the like.

[0016] Here, the control system is a system that controls the processes of a plant, and is composed of an engineer terminal 20, control devices 30, field devices 40, etc. 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 a control system that controls the processes of the plant. Furthermore, the plant is, for example, a production facility for petroleum / petrochemicals, gas, iron / non-ferrous metals, chemicals, electricity, food and pharmaceuticals, etc.

[0017] (1-1-2. Engineer Terminal 20) The engineer terminal 20 is a manager terminal used by Engineer E, who is the plant manager. In the example of Fig. 1, the engineer terminal 20 is implemented as a desktop PC (Personal Computer), but it may also be implemented as a notebook PC, a smartphone, etc. Furthermore, the automation system 100 shown in Fig. 1 may include multiple engineer terminals 20.

[0018] (1-1-3. Control device 30) The control device 30 is a plant device that controls a plurality of field devices 40 that make up a plant. For example, the control device 30 is realized by a control controller. The control device 30 is managed by an engineer E. In the example of FIG. 1, the control devices 30 (30A, 30B, ...) that make up the control system are managed by the engineer E.

[0019] (1-1-4. Field Device 40) The field devices 40 are plant devices that make up 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 make up the plant include field devices 40A-1, 40A-2, . . . and are controlled by the control device 30A. The field devices 40B that make up the plant include field devices 40B-1, 40B-2, . . . and are controlled by the control device 30A.

[0020] (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 S5 below may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processing of steps S1 to S5 below may be omitted.

[0021] (1-2-1. Information model reception processing) First, the management server 10 receives an information model from the engineer terminal 20 (step S1). For example, the management server 10 receives from the engineer terminal 20 an information model of OPC UA for each control system, which is an information model indicating a list of function blocks defined in engineering, and stores the information model.

[0022] Here, an information model is structured information about a plant, and includes, for example, function block information about function blocks that can be used in a control system (e.g., the type and number of function blocks), input / output information about the input / output settings of the control system (e.g., the type and number of input / output settings), etc.

[0023] (1-2-2. Device information collection process) Second, management server 10 collects device information from control device 30 (step S2). For example, management server 10 collects and stores device information of control device 30A from control device 30A. Management server 10 also collects and stores device information of control device 30B from control device 30B.

[0024] Here, the device information is information relating to the control device 30, such as hardware information relating to hardware, software information relating to software, and functional block type information relating to the type of functional block.

[0025] (1-2-3. Import file generation process) Third, management server 10 generates an import file (step S3). For example, management server 10 uses the information model and device information to generate and save an import file that creates a function block corresponding to each control device 30. At this time, if control device 30A has both a calculation function and an input / output data transmission / reception function, management server 10 generates an import file that creates a function block related to calculation settings and input / output data transmission / reception settings. Furthermore, if control device 30B has only a calculation function, management server 10 generates an import file that creates a function block related to calculation settings.

[0026] (1-2-4. Import file sending process) Fourth, management server 10 transmits an import file to control device 30 (step S4). For example, management server 10 transmits to control device 30A an import file of function blocks (e.g., calculation settings, input / output data transmission / reception settings) that control device 30A can create. Management server 10 also transmits to control device 30B an import file of function blocks (e.g., calculation settings) that control device 30B can create.

[0027] At this time, if the engineer terminal 20 is online, the management server 10 transmits the import file to the control device 30 at the timing when the import file is generated. On the other hand, if the engineer terminal 20 is offline, the management server 10 acquires the saved import file at any timing and transmits the import file to the control device 30.

[0028] (1-2-5. Function block creation process) Fifth, control device 30 creates function blocks (step S5). For example, control device 30A reads the import file received from management server 10 and creates function blocks related to calculation settings and input / output data transmission / reception settings. Also, control device 30B reads the import file received from management server 10 and creates function blocks related to calculation settings.

[0029] (1-3. Effects of Automation System 100) Below, the problems of the automation system 100P according to the reference technology will be explained, and then the effects of the automation system 100 will be explained.

[0030] (1-3-1. Problems with the Automation System 100P) In the automation system 100P, an engineer E defines the function blocks on an engineering tool of an engineer terminal 20, thereby allocating the function blocks to the control devices 30. At this time, the engineer E needs to understand the performance and resources of each control device 30. Furthermore, when the configuration of the control system is changed, the engineer E needs to reconsider the allocation of the function blocks, which leads to an increase in the number of engineering steps.

[0031] (1-3-2. Overview of the automation system 100) The automation system 100 executes the following processes. First, the management server 10 receives an OPC UA information model from the engineer terminal 20. Second, the management server 10 collects device information, including hardware information and software information, from each control device 30. Third, the management server 10 uses the information model and device information to generate an import file according to the function of each control device 30. Fourth, the management server 10 transmits the generated import file to each control device 30. Fifth, each control device 30 reads the import file and creates an executable function block.

[0032] At this time, in the automation system 100, if the engineer terminal 20 is online, the management server 10 creates the function block at the timing when the import file is generated, and if the engineer terminal 20 is offline, the management server 10 creates the function block at any timing.

[0033] (1-3-3. Effects of the Automation System 100) The automation system 100 has the following advantages. First, the automation system 100 can optimally arrange function blocks according to the hardware information and software information of the control device 30. Second, the automation system 100 can optimally arrange and change function blocks even when the engineer terminal 20 does not have the function to arrange function blocks. Third, the automation system 100 can detect changes in the control device 30 and automatically rearrange function blocks even when the engineer terminal 20 is offline, such as during plant operation. Fourth, the automation system 100 uses the information model of the standard OPC UA, making it possible to arrange function blocks without relying on vendors.

[0034] As described above, the automation system 100 allows efficient engineering of the automation system's functional blocks.

[0035] 2. Configuration and Processing of Each Device in the Automation System 100 The configuration and processing of each device included in the automation system 100 shown in Fig. 1 will be described using Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of each device of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Below, an example configuration of the entire automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described, followed by an example configuration and processing of the management server 10, an example configuration and processing of the engineer terminal 20, an example configuration and processing of the control device 30, and an example configuration and processing of the field device 40.

[0036] (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 using Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 2, the automation system 100 is composed of a management server 10, which is an information processing device, an engineer terminal 20, a control device 30, and a field device 40. The management server 10, the engineer terminal 20, the control device 30, and the field device 40 are communicably connected by a communication network N realized by the Internet, a dedicated line, or the like.

[0037] 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 engineer terminal 20, the control device 30, and the field device 40 constitute a control system that controls a system. Here, the system is, for example, a plant. The control device 30 controls the plant, for example. The field device 40 is installed, for example, at the plant site.

[0038] Furthermore, the control device 30 conforms to, for example, the standard specifications OPA (Open Process Automation), MTP (Module Type Package), or NOA (NAMUR Open Architecture).

[0039] Furthermore, the control device 30 is compliant with, for example, the standard OPC UA.

[0040] (2-2. Configuration example and processing example of management server 10) An example of the configuration and processing of the management server 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. 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., keyboard, mouse, etc.) that accepts various operations from an administrator of the management server 10, and a display unit (e.g., liquid crystal display, etc.) that displays various information.

[0041] (2-2-1. Communications Department 11) The communication unit 11 controls data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 11 performs data communication with each communication device via a router or the like. The communication unit 11 can also perform data communication with an operator's terminal (not shown).

[0042] (2-2-2. Storage section 12) The storage unit 12 stores various pieces of information referenced by the control unit 13 when it operates, and various pieces of information acquired when the control unit 13 operates. The storage unit 12 is composed of an information model storage unit 12a, a device information storage unit 12b, and an import file storage unit 12c. 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. 2, the storage unit 12 is installed inside the management server 10, but it may also be installed outside the management server 10, or multiple storage units may be installed.

[0043] (2-2-2-1. Information model storage unit 12a) The information model storage unit 12a stores an information model. For example, the information model storage unit 12a stores an information model received by a receiving unit 13a of the control unit 13, which will be described later. Here, an example of data stored in the information model storage unit 12a will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the information model storage unit 12a of the management server 10 according to the embodiment. In the example of FIG. 3, the information model storage unit 12a has items such as "Plant" and "Information Model."

[0044] "Plant" refers to identification information for identifying a plant system, such as the plant's identification number or symbol. "Information model" is structured information about the system, such as function block information about function blocks available in the plant's control system (e.g., function block type and number), and input / output information about the input / output settings of the plant's control system (e.g., input / output setting type and number), created in a format compliant with OPC UA.

[0045] That is, FIG. 3 shows an example in which the following data is stored in the information model storage unit 12a: {Plant: "Plant PS001", Information Model: "Information Model IM001"}, {Plant: "Plant PS001", Information Model: "Information Model IM002"}, {Plant: "Plant PS001", Information Model: "Information Model IM003"}, etc.

[0046] (2-2-2-2.Device information storage unit 12b) The device information storage unit 12b stores device information. For example, the device information storage unit 12b stores device information collected by a collection unit 13b of the control unit 13, which will be described later. Here, an example of data stored in the device information storage unit 12b will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the device information storage unit 12b of the management server 10 according to the embodiment. In the example of FIG. 4, the device information storage unit 12b has items such as "plant," "control device," "hardware information," "software information," and "functional block type information."

[0047] "Plant" indicates identification information for identifying a plant, which is a system, such as the plant's identification number or identification symbol. "Control device" indicates identification information for identifying control device 30, which is plant equipment, such as the identification number or identification symbol of control device 30. "Hardware information" is information about the hardware of control device 30, such as the memory capacity, CPU (Central Processing Unit) processing performance, and communication bandwidth of control device 30. "Software information" is information about the software of control device 30, such as the processing load of control device 30 and information about the execution environment, such as the OS (Operating System). "Function block type information" is information about the type of function block that can be used by control device 30, such as information about executable processes, such as calculation functions, input / output data transmission / reception functions, etc.

[0048] That is, in FIG. 4, for the plant identified by "Plant PS001", {Control device: "Control device DCN-001", Hardware information: "Hardware information HW-DCN-001", Software information: "SW-Software information DCN-001", Function block type information: "Function block type information FBT-DCN-001"}, {Control device: "Control device DCN-002", Hardware information: "Hardware information HW-DCN-002", Software information : "SW-software information DCN-002", functional block type information: "functional block type information FBT-DCN-002"}, {control device: "control device DCN-003", hardware information: "hardware information HW-DCN-003", software information: "SW-software information DCN-003", functional block type information: "functional block type information FBT-DCN-003"}, ... is stored in the device information storage unit 12b.

[0049] (2-2-2-3. Import file storage unit 12c) The import file storage unit 12c stores an import file. For example, the import file storage unit 12c stores an import file generated by a generation unit 13c of the control unit 13, which will be described later. An example of data stored in the import file storage unit 12c will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the import file storage unit 12c of the management server 10 according to the embodiment. In the example of FIG. 5, the import file storage unit 12c has items such as "Plant," "Control Device," and "Import File."

[0050] "Plant" indicates identification information for identifying a plant, which is a system, such as the plant's identification number or identification symbol. "Control device" indicates identification information for identifying the control device 30, which is a plant device, such as the identification number or identification symbol of the control device 30. "Import file" is a file for creating function blocks for the control device 30, such as an executable file that the control device 30 reads to set the function blocks.

[0051] That is, Figure 5 shows an example in which, for a plant identified by "Plant PS001", the following data is stored in the import file memory unit 12c: {Control device: "Control device DCN-001", import file: "Import file IF-DCN-001"}, {Control device: "Control device DCN-002", import file: "Import file IF-DCN-002"}, {Control device: "Control device DCN-003", import file: "Import file IF-DCN-003"}, etc.

[0052] (2-2-3. Control unit 13) The control unit 13 is responsible for overall control of the management server 10. The control unit 13 has a receiving unit 13a, a collecting unit 13b, a generating unit 13c, and a transmitting unit 13d. Here, the control unit 13 can be realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU 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. Receiving unit 13a) The receiving unit 13a receives various types of information. The receiving unit 13a stores the received various types of information in the storage unit 12. The information model receiving process will be described below.

[0054] (Information model reception processing) The receiving unit 13a executes an information model receiving process. For example, the receiving unit 13a receives an information model related to a system. At this time, the receiving unit 13a receives an information model including at least one of function block information related to function blocks of the system and input / output information related to input / output settings of the system from an engineer terminal 20, which is an administrator terminal used by an engineer E who is an administrator of the system. Here, the system is, for example, a plant.

[0055] To explain a specific example, when the control device 30 of the "control system CS001" of the "plant PS001" is initially set up, the receiving unit 13a receives an "information model IM001" including function block information and input / output information of the "plant PS001" from the engineer terminal 20 of the engineer E of the "control system CS001" and stores the information model in the information model memory unit 12a.

[0056] (2-2-3-2. Collection unit 13b) The collection unit 13b collects various types of information. The collection unit 13b stores the collected various types of information in the storage unit 12. The device information collection process will be described below.

[0057] (Device information collection process) The collection unit 13b executes a device information collection process. For example, the collection unit 13b collects device information related to each control device 30 from each control device 30 that controls the system. At this time, the collection unit 13b collects device information from each control device 30, including at least one of hardware information related to the hardware of each control device 30, software information related to the software of each control device 30, and function block type information related to the type of function block of each control device 30. Here, the system is, for example, a plant.

[0058] To explain a specific example, the collection unit 13b collects the following equipment information of the control device 30A from the control device 30A of the "control system CS001" of the "plant PS001": {control device: "control device DCN-001", hardware information: "hardware information HW-DCN-001", software information: "SW-software information DCN-001", function block type information: "function block type information FBT-DCN-001"} and stores it in the equipment information storage unit 12b. Furthermore, the collection unit 13b collects {control device: "control device DCN-002", hardware information: "hardware information HW-DCN-002", software information: "SW-software information DCN-002", function block type information: "function block type information FBT-DCN-002"} as equipment information of the control device 30B from the control device 30B of the "control system CS001" of the "plant PS001", and stores it in the equipment information storage unit 12b.

[0059] Furthermore, the collection unit 13b may execute the equipment information collection process when the engineer terminal 20 transmits the information model, or may execute the equipment information collection process at regular intervals set by the engineer E, or may execute the equipment information collection process when a change in the control system (e.g., new connection, replacement, or removal of the control device 30) is detected.

[0060] (2-2-3-3. Generation unit 13c) The generation unit 13c generates various types of information. The generation unit 13c stores the generated various types of information in the storage unit 12. The generation unit 13c outputs the generated various types of information to the transmission unit 13d. The information model identification process, the device information identification process, and the import file generation process will be described below.

[0061] (Information model specific processing) The generation unit 13c executes an information model identification process. For example, the generation unit 13c identifies the type and number of function blocks that can be used in the control system from the function block information included in the information model. Furthermore, the generation unit 13c identifies the type and number of input / output settings that can be set in the control system from the input / output information included in the information model.

[0062] A specific example of the information model identification process will be described below. First, the generation unit 13c refers to "information model IM001" of "plant PS001" as an information model stored in the information model storage unit 12a. Second, the generation unit 13c identifies, from the referred "information model IM001," the type of function block available in "plant PS001," "function block type FBT-PS001," the number of available function blocks, "function block number FBN-PS001," etc. Third, the generation unit 13c identifies, from the referred "information model IM001," the type of input / output setting that can be set in "plant PS001," "input / output setting type IOT-PS001," the number of settable input / output settings, "input / output setting number ION-PS001," etc.

[0063] (Device information identification processing) The generation unit 13c executes a device information identification process. For example, the generation unit 13c identifies the memory capacity, CPU processing performance, communication bandwidth, etc. of the control device 30 from the hardware information included in the device information. The generation unit 13c also identifies the processing load of the control device 30 and the execution environment, such as the OS, from the software information included in the device information. The generation unit 13c also identifies the calculation function, input / output data transmission / reception function, etc. as functions that can be executed by the control device 30 from the function block type information included in the device information.

[0064] To explain a specific example of the device information identification process, first, the generation unit 13c refers to "hardware information HW-DCN-001," "software information SW-DCN-001," and "functional block type information FBT-DCN-001" of "control device DCN-001" of "plant PS001" as the device information stored in the device information storage unit 12b. In addition, the generation unit 13c refers to "hardware information HW-DCN-002," "software information SW-DCN-002," and "functional block type information FBT-DCN-002" of "control device DCN-002" of "plant PS001" as the device information stored in the device information storage unit 12b.

[0065] Secondly, the generation unit 13c identifies the memory capacity "memory capacity MC-DCN-001", CPU processing performance "CPU processing performance PP-DCN-001", communication band "communication band CB-DCN-001", etc. of "control device DCN-001" from the "hardware information HW-DCN-001" of the referenced "control device DCN-001". Furthermore, the generation unit 13c identifies the memory capacity "memory capacity MC-DCN-002", CPU processing performance "CPU processing performance PP-DCN-002", communication band "communication band CB-DCN-002", etc. of "control device DCN-002" from the "hardware information HW-DCN-002" of the referenced "control device DCN-002".

[0066] Third, the generation unit 13c identifies the processing load "processing load PL-DCN-001" and execution environment "execution environment EE-DCN-001" of the "control device DCN-001" from the "software information HW-DCN-001" of the referenced "control device DCN-001". Furthermore, the generation unit 13c identifies the processing load "processing load PL-DCN-002" and execution environment "execution environment EE-DCN-002" of the "control device DCN-002" from the "software information HW-DCN-002" of the referenced "control device DCN-002".

[0067] Fourth, the generation unit 13c identifies the type of the function block of the "control device DCN-001" {function block type 1: "arithmetic function 1", function block type 2: "arithmetic function 2", function block type 3: "input / output data transmission / reception function"} etc. of the "control device DCN-001" from the "function block type FBT-DCN-001" of the referenced "control device DCN-001". Furthermore, the generation unit 13c identifies the type of the function block of the "control device DCN-002" {function block type 1: "arithmetic function 1"} etc. of the "control device DCN-002" from the "function block type FBT-DCN-002" of the referenced "control device DCN-002".

[0068] (Import file generation process) The generation unit 13c executes an import file generation process. For example, the generation unit 13c generates an import file capable of creating function blocks corresponding to each control device 30, based on the received information model and the collected device information. At this time, the generation unit 13c generates an import file capable of creating function blocks such as arithmetic functions and input / output data transmission / reception functions corresponding to each control device 30, using information on the function blocks and input / output settings of the control system identified from the information model, and information on the hardware, software, and type of function blocks of each control device 30 identified from the device information.

[0069] To explain a specific example of the import file generation process, the generation unit 13c uses the "function block type FBT-PS001", "number of function blocks FBN-PS001", etc. specified for the "plant PS001", and the "memory capacity MC-DCN-001", "CPU processing performance PP-DCN-001", "communication bandwidth CB-DCN-001", "processing load PL-DCN-001", "execution environment EE-DCN-001", {function block type 1: "arithmetic function 1", function block type 2: "arithmetic function 2", function block type 3: "input / output data transmission / reception function"} etc. specified for the "control device DCN-001" to generate an "import file IF-DCN-001" as an import file capable of creating the function blocks "arithmetic function 1A", "arithmetic function 2B", and "input / output data transmission / reception function C" to be placed in the "control device DCN-001", and stores the generated import file in the import file memory unit 12c. At this time, the generating unit 13c may output the generated "import file IF-DCN-001" to the transmitting unit 13d.

[0070] Furthermore, the generation unit 13c uses the "function block type FBT-PS001," "number of function blocks FBN-PS001," etc., specified for the "plant PS001," and the "memory capacity MC-DCN-002," "CPU processing performance PP-DCN-002," "communication bandwidth CB-DCN-002," "processing load PL-DCN-002," "execution environment EE-DCN-002," {function block type 1: "arithmetic function 1"}, etc., specified for the "control device DCN-002," to generate an "import file IF-DCN-002" as an import file capable of creating a function block "arithmetic function 1B" to be placed in the "control device DCN-002," and stores the generated "import file IF-DCN-002" in the import file storage unit 12c. At this time, the generation unit 13c may output the generated "import file IF-DCN-002" to the transmission unit 13d.

[0071] (2-2-3-4. Transmitter 13d) The transmission unit 13d transmits various types of information. The transmission unit 13d acquires and transmits various types of information stored in the storage unit 12. The import file transmission process will be described below.

[0072] (Import file sending process) The transmitter 13d executes an import file transmission process. For example, the transmitter 13d transmits the generated import file to each control device 30, causing each control device 30 to create a function block. Furthermore, when the engineer terminal 20 used by the system engineer E is online, the transmitter 13d transmits the generated import file to each control device 30 each time an import file is generated, causing each control device 30 to create a function block. Furthermore, when the engineer terminal 20 used by the system engineer E is offline, the transmitter 13d acquires an import file from the storage unit 12, transmits the acquired import file to each control device 30, and causes each control device 30 to create a function block. Here, the system is, for example, a plant.

[0073] To explain a specific example, when the transmitting unit 13d receives an online notification indicating an online state from the engineer terminal 20 of "control system CS001" of "plant PS001," the transmitting unit 13d transmits the "import file IF-DCN-001" output from the generating unit 13c together with a function block creation request to "control device DCN-001." Furthermore, when the transmitting unit 13d receives an online notification indicating an online state from the engineer terminal 20 of "control system CS001" of "plant PS001," the transmitting unit 13d transmits the "import file IF-DCN-002" output from the generating unit 13c together with a function block creation request to "control device DCN-002."

[0074] Furthermore, when the transmitter 13d receives an offline notification indicating an offline state from the engineer terminal 20 of "control system CS001" of "plant PS001" or when an online notification is not received, the transmitter 13d transmits the "import file IF-DCN-001" acquired from the import file storage unit 12c together with a function block creation request to "control device DCN-001." When the transmitter 13d receives an offline notification indicating an offline state from the engineer terminal 20 of "control system CS001" of "plant PS001" or when an online notification is not received, the transmitter 13d transmits the "import file IF-DCN-002" acquired from the import file storage unit 12c together with a function block creation request to "control device DCN-002."

[0075] At this time, if the transmitting unit 13d receives a designation of the time to create the functional block from the engineer terminal 20, it can transmit the import file at the designated time to cause each control device 30 to create the functional block.

[0076] (2-3. Configuration and Processing Examples of Engineer Terminal 20) An example of the configuration and processing of the engineer terminal 20 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. The engineer terminal 20 is a terminal used by an engineer E who manages a plant, and includes a control unit 21 and a communication unit 22.

[0077] (2-3-1. Control unit 21) The control unit 21 transmits various types of information. For example, the control unit 21 transmits an information model related to the plant to the management server 10 in response to an operation by the engineer E. Furthermore, the control unit 21 transmits to the management server 10, in response to an operation by the engineer E, information related to the timing of collecting device information, a request for creating a function block, the timing of creating a function block, and the like, for the control device 30 of the plant's control system. Furthermore, the control unit 21 receives various types of information.

[0078] (2-3-2. Communications Department 22) The communication unit 22 controls data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 22 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. The communication unit 22 can also perform data communication with an operator's terminal (not shown).

[0079] (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. 2. The control device 30 is a device that controls a plurality of devices that make up a control system, and includes a control unit 31 and a communication unit 32.

[0080] (2-4-1. Control unit 31) The control unit 31 receives various types of information. For example, the control unit 31 receives an import file from the management server 10. The control unit 31 also receives a request to send device information from the management server 10. The control unit 31 also receives a request to create a function block from the management server 10.

[0081] The control unit 31 transmits various types of information. For example, when the control unit 31 receives a request to transmit device information from the management server 10, the control unit 31 transmits the device information to the management server 10.

[0082] The control unit 31 executes various processes. For example, when the control unit 31 receives a request to create a function block from the management server 10, the control unit 31 reads an import file and creates the function block.

[0083] (2-4-2. Communication Unit 32) The communication unit 32 controls 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).

[0084] (2-5. Example of configuration and processing of field device 40) An example of the configuration and processing of the field device 40 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. The field device 40 is a measuring device such as a sensor device that constitutes a control system, and measures sensor values ​​and process values. At this time, the field device 40 transmits the measured sensor values ​​and process values ​​as measured values ​​to the control device 30 that constitutes the control system. The field device 40 is also an operating device such as an actuator that constitutes 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 that constitutes the control system.

[0085] 3. Processing Flow of the Automation System 100 The processing flow of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the overall flow of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. The information model management processing, device information management processing, import file management processing, and function block management processing will be described below.

[0086] (3-1. Information model management processing) The following describes the flow of information model management processing in the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Note that the processing of the following steps S101 to S103 may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processing of the following steps S101 to S103 may be omitted.

[0087] First, the engineer terminal 20 executes an information model reference process (step S101). For example, the engineer terminal 20, in response to an operation by engineer E, references an information model of the plant stored in a predetermined storage unit or database. Second, the engineer terminal 20 executes an information model transmission process (step S102). For example, the engineer terminal 20, in response to an operation by engineer E, transmits the referenced information model of the plant to the management server 10. Third, the management server 10 executes an information model storage process (step S103). For example, the management server 10 stores the information model of the plant received from the engineer terminal 20 in the information model storage unit 12a.

[0088] (3-2. Device information management processing) The following describes the flow of device information management processing in the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Note that the processing of the following steps S201 to S206 can be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processing of the following steps S201 to S206 may be omitted.

[0089] First, control device 30A executes device information reference processing (step S201). For example, control device 30A references the device information of control device 30A stored in a predetermined storage unit in response to a device information transmission request from management server 10. Second, control device 30A executes device information transmission processing (step S202). For example, control device 30A transmits the referenced device information of control device 30A to management server 10. Third, management server 10 executes device information storage processing (step S203). For example, management server 10 stores the device information of control device 30A received from control device 30A in device information storage unit 12b.

[0090] Fourth, control device 30B executes device information reference processing (step S204). For example, control device 30B references the device information of control device 30B stored in a predetermined storage unit in response to a device information transmission request from management server 10. Fifth, control device 30B executes device information transmission processing (step S205). For example, control device 30B transmits the referenced device information of control device 30B to management server 10. Sixth, management server 10 executes device information storage processing (step S206). For example, management server 10 stores the device information of control device 30B received from control device 30B in device information storage unit 12b.

[0091] (3-3. Import file management process) The following describes the flow of import file management processing in the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Note that the processing of the following steps S301 to S304 may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processing of the following steps S301 to S304 may be omitted.

[0092] First, the management server 10 executes an information model reference process (step S301). For example, the management server 10 references the plant information model stored in the information model storage unit 12a. Second, the management server 10 executes an equipment information reference process (step S302). For example, the management server 10 references the equipment information of each control device 30 stored in the equipment information storage unit 12b. Third, the management server 10 executes an import file generation process (step S303). For example, the management server 10 generates an import file that can create function blocks to be placed in each control device 30 based on the information model and the equipment information. Fourth, the management server 10 executes an import file storage process (step S304). For example, the management server 10 stores the generated import file in the import file storage unit 12c.

[0093] (3-4. Function block management processing) The following describes the flow of the functional block management process of the automation system 100 according to the embodiment. Note that the processes of steps S401 to S406 below can be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes of steps S401 to S406 below may be omitted.

[0094] First, management server 10 executes import file reference processing (step S401). For example, management server 10 references the import file of control device 30A stored in import file storage unit 12c. Second, management server 10 executes import file transmission processing (step S402). For example, management server 10 transmits the referenced import file of control device 30A to control device 30A. Third, control device 30A executes function block creation processing (step S403). For example, control device 30A reads the import file of control device 30A received from management server 10 and creates a function block.

[0095] Fourth, management server 10 executes import file reference processing (step S404). For example, management server 10 references the import file of control device 30B stored in import file storage unit 12c. Fifth, management server 10 executes import file transmission processing (step S405). For example, management server 10 transmits the referenced import file of control device 30B to control device 30B. Sixth, control device 30B executes function block creation processing (step S406). For example, control device 30A reads the import file of control device 30B received from management server 10 and creates a function block.

[0096] 4. Effects of the embodiment Finally, the effects of the embodiment will be described below: Effects 1 to 9 corresponding to the processing according to the embodiment will be described below.

[0097] (4-1. Effect 1) First, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the management server 10 receives an information model related to the system, collects device information related to each control device 30 from each control device 30 that controls the system, and generates an import file that can create a function block corresponding to each control device 30 based on the received information model and the collected device information. Therefore, in this process, engineering related to the function blocks of the automation system 100 can be efficiently performed.

[0098] (4-2. Effect 2) Secondly, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the management server 10 transmits the generated import file to each control device 30, causing each control device 30 to create a function block. Therefore, in this process, different function blocks are automatically arranged for each control device 30, thereby enabling efficient engineering of the function blocks of the automation system 100.

[0099] (4-3. Effect 3) Thirdly, in the processing according to the embodiment described above, when the engineer terminal 20 used by the system engineer E is online, the management server 10 transmits the generated import file to each control device 30 each time an import file is generated, and causes each control device 30 to create a function block. Therefore, in this processing, when the engineer terminal 20 is online, different function blocks are automatically arranged in real time for each control device 30, thereby enabling efficient engineering of the function blocks of the automation system 100.

[0100] (4-4. Effect 4) Fourth, in the processing according to the embodiment described above, the management server 10 saves the generated import file, and when the engineer terminal 20 used by the system engineer E is offline, acquires the saved import file, transmits the acquired import file to each control device 30, and causes each control device 30 to create a function block. Therefore, in this processing, when the engineer terminal 20 is offline, different function blocks are automatically arranged for each control device 30 at any time, thereby enabling efficient engineering of the function blocks of the automation system 100.

[0101] (4-5. Effect 5) Fifth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the management server 10 receives an information model including at least one of function block information related to the function blocks of the system and input / output information related to the input / output settings of the system from the engineer terminal 20 used by the system engineer E. Therefore, in this process, by referring to the information related to the function blocks and input / output settings structured for each system, engineering related to the function blocks of the automation system 100 can be efficiently performed.

[0102] (4-6. Effect 6) Sixth, in the processing according to the above-described embodiment, the management server 10 collects, from each control device 30, device information including at least one of hardware information relating to the hardware of each control device 30, software information relating to the software of each control device 30, and function block type information relating to the type of function block of each control device 30. Therefore, in this processing, by referring to the hardware, software, function block types, etc. that differ for each control device 30, engineering related to the function blocks of the automation system 100 can be efficiently performed.

[0103] (4-7. Effect 7) Seventh, in the process according to the above-described embodiment, the control device 30 complies with OPA, MTP, or NOA. Therefore, in this process, engineering of the function blocks of the automation system 100, which are being standardized as international standards, can be efficiently performed.

[0104] (4-8. Effect 8) Eighth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the control device 30 complies with OPC UA. Therefore, in this process, engineering related to the function blocks of the automation system 100 that complies with OPC UA can be efficiently performed.

[0105] (4-9. Effect 9) Ninth, in the process according to the above-described embodiment, the control device 30 controls the plant. Therefore, in this process, engineering related to the function blocks of the automation system 100 of the plant, which requires safety, can be efficiently performed.

[0106] [5. 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.

[0107] Furthermore, the components of each device shown in the figure are functional concepts and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific form of distribution or integration of each device is not limited to that shown. In other words, all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed or integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0108] Furthermore, all or any part of the processing functions performed by each device may be realized by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or may be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0109] [6. Hardware] Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the management server 10, which is an information processing device, will be described. Note that other devices such as the control device 30 may also have a similar hardware configuration. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the management server 10 has a communication device 10a, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 10b, a memory 10c, and a processor 10d. Furthermore, the components shown in FIG. 7 are connected to each other via a bus or the like.

[0110] 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.

[0111] The processor 10d reads out from the HDD 10b or the like a program that executes the same processes as the respective processing units shown in Fig. 2 and loads it into the memory 10c, thereby operating a process that executes each function described in Fig. 2 or the like. For example, this process executes the same functions as the respective processing units possessed by the management server 10. Specifically, the processor 10d reads out from the HDD 10b or the like a program that has the same functions as the receiving unit 13a, the collecting unit 13b, the generating unit 13c, the transmitting unit 13d, and the like. Then, the processor 10d executes a process that executes the same processes as the receiving unit 13a, the collecting unit 13b, the generating unit 13c, the transmitting unit 13d, and the like.

[0112] In this way, the management server 10 operates as a device that executes various processing methods by reading and executing the programs. The management server 10 can also realize the same functions as the embodiments by reading the programs from a recording medium using a media reader and executing the read programs. Note that the programs according to the embodiments are not limited to being executed by the management server 10. For example, the present invention can also be applied in the same way to cases where other computers or servers execute the programs, or where these execute the programs in cooperation with each other.

[0113] The program according to the embodiment can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. The 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 read from the recording medium and executed by a computer.

[0114] [7. Other] Some examples of combinations of the disclosed technical features are set out below.

[0115] (1) An information processing device comprising: a receiving unit that receives an information model that structures information about a system; a collecting unit that collects device information about each control device that controls the system from the control device; and a generating unit that generates an import file that can create a function block corresponding to each control device based on the received information model and the collected device information.

[0116] (2) The information processing device according to (1), further comprising: a transmission unit that transmits the generated import file to each of the control devices and causes each of the control devices to create the function block.

[0117] (3) The information processing device described in (2), wherein the transmitting unit transmits the generated import file to each of the control devices each time the import file is generated when the administrator terminal used by the administrator of the system is online, and causes each of the control devices to create the function block.

[0118] (4) An information processing device as described in (2), further comprising a memory unit that stores the generated import file, wherein the transmission unit, when an administrator terminal used by an administrator of the system is offline, acquires the import file from the memory unit, transmits the acquired import file to each of the control devices, and causes each of the control devices to create the function block.

[0119] (5) An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (4), wherein the receiving unit receives an information model including at least one of functional block information regarding functional blocks of the system and input / output information regarding input / output settings of the system from an administrator terminal used by an administrator of the system.

[0120] (6) An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (5), wherein the collection unit collects device information from each of the control devices, the device information including at least one of hardware information regarding the hardware of each of the control devices, software information regarding the software of each of the control devices, and functional block type information regarding the type of the functional block of each of the control devices.

[0121] (7) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the control device complies with OPA (Open Process Automation), MTP (Module Type Package), or NOA (NAMUR Open Architecture).

[0122] (8) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the control device complies with OPC UA (Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture).

[0123] (9) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the control device controls a plant.

[0124] (10) An information processing method in which a computer receives an information model that structures information about a system, collects device information about each control device that controls the system from the control devices, and generates an import file that creates function blocks corresponding to each control device based on the received information model and the collected device information.

[0125] (11) An information processing program that causes a computer to execute a process of receiving an information model that structures information about a system, collecting device information about each control device that controls the system from each control device, and generating an import file that creates a function block corresponding to each control device based on the received information model and the collected device information. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 10 Management Server 10a Communication equipment 10b HDD 10c memory 10d processor 11 Communications Department 12 Storage section 12a Information model storage unit 12b Device information storage section 12c Import file storage section 13 Control Unit 13a Receiving section 13b Collection Department 13c generator 13d Transmitter 20 Engineer Terminal 21 Control Unit 22 Communications Department 30 Control Equipment 31 Control Unit 32 Communications Department 40 Field Devices 100 Automation Systems

Claims

1. a receiving unit for receiving an information model that structures information about the system; a collection unit that collects device information related to each control device that controls the system from each control device; a generation unit that generates an import file that can create a function block corresponding to each of the control devices based on the received information model and the collected device information; An information processing device comprising:

2. a transmitting unit that transmits the generated import file to each of the control devices and causes each of the control devices to create the function block; The information processing device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

3. The transmission unit When an administrator terminal used by an administrator of the system is online, each time the import file is generated, the generated import file is transmitted to each of the control devices, and the control devices are caused to create the function blocks. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. a storage unit that stores the generated import file; Furthermore, The transmission unit When an administrator terminal used by the system administrator is offline, the import file is acquired from the storage unit, the acquired import file is transmitted to each of the control devices, and the control devices are caused to create the function block. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

5. The receiving unit receiving, from an administrator terminal used by an administrator of the system, an information model including at least one of function block information regarding function blocks of the system and input / output information regarding input / output settings of the system; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

6. The collecting unit collecting device information from each of the control devices, the device information including at least one of hardware information relating to the hardware of each of the control devices, software information relating to the software of each of the control devices, and function block type information relating to the type of the function block of each of the control devices; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

7. The control device complies with OPA (Open Process Automation), MTP (Module Type Package), or NOA (NAMUR Open Architecture). The information processing device according to claim 1 .

8. The control device complies with OPC UA (Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture). The information processing device according to claim 1 .

9. The control device executes control of the plant. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

10. The computer Receive a structured information model of the system; collecting device information relating to each control device that controls the system from each control device; generating an import file for creating a function block corresponding to each of the control devices based on the received information model and the collected device information; An information processing method that performs processing.

11. On the computer, Receive a structured information model of the system; collecting device information relating to each control device that controls the system from each control device; generating an import file for creating a function block corresponding to each of the control devices based on the received information model and the collected device information; An information processing program that executes processing.

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