Apparatus, method, generating device, and program

Abstract

To provide a device which can selectively enable a processing unit among a plurality of processing units in response to a signal.SOLUTION: A device comprises: a data acquisition unit that acquires measurement data; a plurality of processing units, each of which performs its own data processing; and a setting unit for acquiring a signal corresponding to a type of the measurement data, and selectively combining a processing unit corresponding to the signal among the plurality of processing units to set a data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data. The plurality of processing units is connected in a predetermined order, and the setting unit selectively enables a processing unit among the plurality of processing units according to the signal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus, a method, a generating device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 states that "the diagnostic unit can select whether the diagnostic result of at least one of the multiple diagnostic processes is valid or invalid in the diagnosis in the diagnostic process following that one diagnostic process" (Claim 1). [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6863341 Summary of the Invention

[0003] In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus comprising: a data acquisition unit that acquires measurement data; a plurality of processing units that each perform unique data processing; and a setting unit that acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data, selectively combines processing units from the plurality of processing units corresponding to the signal, and sets a data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data.

[0004] In the above device, the plurality of processing units may be connected in a predetermined order, and the setting unit may selectively enable a processing unit from among the plurality of processing units in response to the signal.

[0005] In any of the above devices, the setting section may be capable of incorporating two or more processing sections out of the plurality of processing sections into the data processing flow in a predetermined order.

[0006] In the device of the first aspect, the setting section may set the data processing flow in which processing sections corresponding to the signal, among the plurality of processing sections, are arranged in an order corresponding to the signal.

[0007] In the above device, the setting section may incorporate at least one processing section out of the plurality of processing sections into a plurality of positions within the data processing flow.

[0008] The device of the first aspect may further include a selection unit that selects one of the plurality of processing units and supplies the signal indicating the selected processing unit to the setting unit.

[0009] In the above device, the plurality of processing units may be grouped into a plurality of groups, and the selection unit may select one of the plurality of groups and then individually select the processing units included in the selected group.

[0010] In any of the above devices having a selection unit, the selection unit may select one of the plurality of processing units in response to a user operation.

[0011] In any of the above devices having a selection unit, the device may further include a detection unit that detects the type of sensor device connected to the data acquisition unit and supplies the signal indicating the type to the selection unit, and the selection unit may select a processing unit from the plurality of processing units that has been stored in advance in correspondence with the type of sensor device connected to the data acquisition unit.

[0012] In the above-mentioned device equipped with a detection unit, the data acquisition unit has a connection unit that can connect to the sensor device in a connection manner according to the type of sensor device, and the detection unit may detect the type of sensor device connected to the connection unit based on the connection manner between the sensor device and the connection unit.

[0013] In the above-mentioned device equipped with a detection unit, the data acquisition unit may acquire measurement data from a sensor device, and the detection unit may detect the type of sensor device connected to the data acquisition unit based on the content of communication with the sensor device.

[0014] In any of the above devices, the data acquisition unit may be capable of acquiring multiple pieces of measurement data, and the setting unit may be capable of setting a multiple-input, single-output data processing flow that takes the multiple pieces of measurement data as input and outputs a single piece of data.

[0015] In any of the above devices, the plurality of processing units may each be a software module, and the device may further include a storage unit that stores the plurality of processing units.

[0016] In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method executed by an apparatus having a data acquisition unit that acquires measurement data and a plurality of processing units that each perform unique data processing, the method including a setting step that acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data, selectively combines a processing unit from the plurality of processing units that corresponds to the signal, and sets a data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data.

[0017] In a third aspect of the present invention, a program is provided that causes a computer to function as a data acquisition unit that acquires measurement data, a plurality of processing units that each perform unique data processing, and a setting unit that acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data, selectively combines a processing unit from the plurality of processing units that corresponds to the signal, and sets a data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data.

[0018] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a generating device for generating software to be incorporated into an apparatus for processing measurement data, the generating device comprising: a memory unit for storing a plurality of software modules, each performing its own unique data processing; and a generating unit for acquiring a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data to be processed by the apparatus, and selectively combining the plurality of software modules corresponding to the signal to generate software.

[0019] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a program is provided that causes a computer that generates software to be incorporated into an apparatus that processes measurement data to function as a memory unit that stores multiple software modules, each performing its own unique data processing, and a generation unit that acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data to be processed by the apparatus and selectively combines the multiple software modules corresponding to the signal to generate software.

[0020] The above summary of the invention does not list all of the necessary features of the present invention, and subcombinations of these features may also constitute inventions. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 shows a field device 1 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] The operation of the transmission unit 3 is shown. [Figure 3] The processing units 35 included in each processing group are shown. [Figure 4] A hypothetical data processing flow 350k is shown. [Figure 5] 1 shows a data processing flow 350 when the field device 1 is used as a pressure measurement system. [Figure 6] 1 shows a data processing flow 350 when the field device 1 is used as a temperature measurement system. [Figure 7] 1 shows a data processing flow 350 when the field device 1 is used as a differential pressure type flow measurement system. [Figure 8] 1 shows a data processing flow 350 when the field device 1 is used as a digital remote differential pressure measurement system. [Figure 9] 1 shows a field device 1A according to a modified example. [Figure 10] 1 shows a field device 1B and a generating device 5 according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] The operation of the generating device 5 is shown. [Figure 12]22 illustrates an example computer 2200 in which aspects of the present invention may be embodied, in whole or in part. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The present invention will be described below through embodiments of the invention, but the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention according to the claims. Furthermore, not all of the combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the invention.

[0023] (1. First embodiment) (1.1. Field Device 1) 1 shows a field device 1 according to this embodiment. The field device 1 may be a device placed at a site where a process is executed, and in this embodiment, as an example, the field device 1 transmits a process value indicating a measurement result as an analog signal to a controller (not shown), and communicates with the controller by superimposing various digital signals on the process value. The field device 1 may include one or more sensor devices 2 and a transmitter 3.

[0024] (1.1-1. Sensor device 2) Each sensor device 2 measures a value indicating one of physical quantities such as pressure, temperature, humidity, liquid level, pH, velocity, or flow rate in a plant process. The pressure may be static pressure or dynamic pressure. The pressure may be a differential pressure based on an arbitrary pressure, and may be, for example, a pressure difference at different measurement positions such as before and after an orifice (also called a throttle valve). The temperature may be a temperature inside the field device 1 or a temperature outside the field device 1. The plant may include, for example, factory facilities, machinery facilities, production facilities, power generation facilities, storage facilities, and wellhead facilities for extracting oil, natural gas, etc.

[0025] Each sensor device 2 may be selectively connected to the transmitter 3 and may supply measurement data indicating the measurement results to the transmitter 3. In the present embodiment, as an example, the sensor device 2 may sequentially supply the measurement data to the transmitter 3. The sensor device 2 may be provided inside the field device 1 or may be connected to the outside.

[0026] (1.1-2. Transmission section 3) The transmission unit 3 is an example of a device, and includes a data acquisition unit 30, a storage unit 31, a communication unit 32, a selection unit 33, and a setting unit 34. The transmission unit 3 may be distributed in a state where it is built into the field device 1, or may be distributed as a standalone unit.

[0027] (1.1-2.1. Data Acquisition Unit 30) The data acquiring section 30 acquires measurement data. The measurement data according to this embodiment may be digital data. The data acquiring section 30 may include a connection section 300 and a data supply section 301.

[0028] (1.1-2.1(1). Connection part 300) The connection unit 300 is connected to the sensor device 2 and acquires measurement data from the sensor device 2. The connection unit 300 may be connectable to any type of sensor device 2. The connection unit 300 may be connectable to one or multiple sensor devices 2 simultaneously. The connection unit 300 may be detachably connected to each sensor device 2. The connection unit 300 may be able to acquire measurement data from each connected sensor device 2, or may be able to acquire multiple pieces of measurement data when multiple types of sensor devices 2 are connected. The connection unit 300 may supply the acquired measurement data to the data supply unit 301.

[0029] (1.1-2.1(2). Data supply unit 301) The data supply unit 301 supplies each measurement data supplied from the connection unit 300 to a data processing flow 350, which will be described later.

[0030] (1.1-2.2. Storage section 31) The storage unit 31 stores a plurality of processing units 35, each of which is a software module. Each of the processing units 35 may perform its own unique data processing. The content of the data processing performed by each processing unit 35 will be described in detail below.

[0031] The multiple processing units 35 may be connected in a predetermined order to form a provisional data processing flow 350k, and may be able to be incorporated in a predetermined order into the data processing flow 350. In this embodiment, the provisional data processing flow 350k may be formed as a multi-input, single-output flow, for example.

[0032] Each processing unit 35 may be able to switch between enabling and disabling data processing independently of one another. An enabled processing unit 35 may perform data processing specific to the input data and output the processed data. A disabled processing unit 35 may output the input data as is, in other words, may be skipped. In this embodiment, as an example, all processing units 35 in the hypothetical data processing flow 350k may be disabled by default. Note that in FIG. 1 and FIGS. 4 to 8 described below, shaded processing units 35 and the like indicate that they are disabled, and non-shaded processing units 35 and the like indicate that they are enabled.

[0033] Among the multiple processing units 35, each enabled processing unit 35 may form a data processing flow 350 to be performed on the measurement data acquired by the data acquiring unit 30. In response to the supply of one or more measurement data, the data processing flow 350 may perform data processing on the measurement data using each processing unit 35 included in the data processing flow 350 (each enabled processing unit 35 is used as an example in this embodiment), and output the processed measurement data. When multiple measurement data are supplied from the data acquiring unit 30, the data processing flow 350 may be a multiple-input, single-output data processing flow that receives multiple measurement data as input and outputs a single data. The measurement data output from the data processing flow 350, which has been subjected to specific data processing by the data processing flow 350 (hereinafter referred to as "processed measurement data"), may indicate any physical quantity such as pressure, temperature, humidity, liquid level, pH, velocity, or flow rate.

[0034] The data processing flow 350 may supply the measurement data that has been subjected to data processing to the communication unit 32. In the present embodiment, as an example, the data processing flow 350 may supply both the digital data that has been subjected to data processing and the analog data to the communication unit 32.

[0035] (1.1-2.3. Communication unit 32) The communication unit 32 outputs the measurement data supplied from the data processing flow 350. As an example, the communication unit 32 may be connected to a transmission line (e.g., a transmission line used to transmit a "4 to 20 mA" signal) installed at the plant site, and may output the measurement data to a controller (not shown) that controls the process. The communication unit 32 may perform communication using a communication protocol for the process industry, such as HART (registered trademark) or BRAIN. The communication unit 32 may include an analog output unit 321 and a field communication unit 322.

[0036] (1.1-2.3(1). Analog output unit 321) The analog output unit 321 outputs an analog signal of the measurement data. The analog signal may be a signal in the range of 4 to 20 mA.

[0037] (1.1-2.3(2). Field communication unit 322) The field communication unit 322 outputs a digital signal of the measurement data by superimposing it on the analog signal output from the analog output unit 321. The field communication unit 322 may communicate various digital signals other than the measurement data with the controller.

[0038] (1.1-2.4. Selection section 33) The selection unit 33 selects one of the multiple processing units 35 (each processing unit 35 included in the virtual data processing flow 350k, as an example in this embodiment). The selection unit 33 may select the processing unit 35 to perform data processing, in other words, the processing unit 35 to be set as active, or may select a different processing unit 35 depending on the measurement data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30. The selection unit 33 may select the processing unit 35 in response to a user operation, and may acquire the user operation via an input device (not shown). The input device may be provided in the field device 1, may be externally connected to the field device 1, or may be provided in a controller that can communicate with the field communication unit 322. The selection unit 33 may supply a signal (also referred to as a setting signal) indicative of the selected processing unit 35 to the setting unit 34.

[0039] (1.1-2.5. Setting section 34) The setting unit 34 acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data, and selectively combines, from among the plurality of processing units 35, processing units 35 corresponding to the signal, to set the data processing flow 350. The setting unit 34 may be able to incorporate two or more of the plurality of processing units 35 into the data processing flow 350 in a predetermined order. The setting unit 34 may selectively enable, from among the plurality of processing units 35 connected in the predetermined order, a processing unit 35 corresponding to the acquired signal. The setting unit 34 may acquire a setting signal from the selection unit 33 as a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data, and may enable the processing unit 35 indicated by the setting signal. When multiple pieces of measurement data are acquired by the measurement data acquisition unit 30, the setting unit 34 may be able to set the data processing flow 350 with multiple inputs and one output.

[0040] According to the above-described transmission unit 3, a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data is acquired, and a processing unit 35 corresponding to the signal is selectively combined from among the multiple processing units 35 to set the data processing flow 350. Therefore, since it is possible to appropriately set the data processing flow 350 according to the type of measurement data and cause data processing to be performed, it is not necessary to prepare separate transmission units 3 for each type of measurement data, and therefore the costs of manufacturing and managing the transmission units 3 and field devices 1 can be reduced.

[0041] Furthermore, one of the plurality of processing units 35 is selected, and a setting signal indicating the selected processing unit 35 is supplied to the setting unit 34. Therefore, an arbitrary data processing flow 350 can be set.

[0042] Furthermore, since the processing unit 35 is selected by the user, the user can set any data processing flow 350.

[0043] The multiple processing units 35 are connected in a predetermined order, and a processing unit 35 is selectively enabled in response to a setting signal. Therefore, the data processing flow 350 can be easily set by setting each processing unit 35 to be enabled or disabled.

[0044] Furthermore, two or more of the multiple processing units 35 can be incorporated into the data processing flow 350 in a predetermined order, which reduces the effort required to set the processing order for processing units 35 whose order is predetermined.

[0045] Furthermore, since it is possible to set up a multiple-input, single-output data processing flow 350 that takes multiple measurement data as input and outputs a single piece of data, it is possible to set up a data processing flow 350 that outputs a single piece of data from multiple types of measurement data, regardless of the number of types of measurement data acquired.

[0046] Furthermore, since each of the multiple processing units 35 is a software module, it is possible to set a data processing flow 350 that selectively combines software modules.

[0047] (1.2.Operation) 2 shows the operation of the transmission unit 3. The field device 1 performs the processes of steps S11 to S19 to set a data processing flow 350 and perform data processing on the measurement data.

[0048] In step S11, the selection unit 33 selects, in response to a user operation, one of the plurality of processing units 35. The selection unit 33 may select, from the plurality of processing units 35 that have formed the provisional data processing flow 350k, the processing unit 35 that is to perform data processing.

[0049] In this embodiment, as an example, the multiple processing units 35 may be grouped into multiple groups (also referred to as processing groups), and may be grouped according to the location where data processing is performed within the data processing flow 350. The selection unit 33 may select one of the multiple processing groups and then individually select a processing unit 35 included in the selected processing group. Each processing group may include one or more processing units 35 connected in a predetermined order. The processing units 35 included in each processing group may be different from each other, or at least one processing unit 35 may be included in two or more processing groups in common. The selection unit 33 may output a setting signal indicating the selected processing unit 35.

[0050] In step S13, the setting unit 34 acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data, and selectively combines processing units corresponding to the signal to set the data processing flow 350. The setting unit 34 may selectively enable a processing unit 35 indicated by the setting signal from the selection unit 33, from among the multiple processing units 35 connected in a predetermined order.

[0051] In step S15, the data acquiring unit 30 acquires measurement data. The data acquiring unit 30 may acquire the measurement data from each sensor device 2 connected to the connection unit 300. Note that the sensor device 2 may be connected to the field device 1 at any time before step S15.

[0052] In step S17, the data processing flow 350 performs data processing on the measurement data. In the present embodiment, as an example, the data processing flow 350 may sequentially perform data processing specific to each enabled processing unit 35.

[0053] In step S19, the communication unit 32 transmits the measurement data that has been processed by the data processing flow 350. The communication unit 32 may transmit the measurement data as an analog signal from the analog output unit 321, and may also transmit the measurement data as a digital signal from the field communication unit 322. The field communication unit 322 may transmit the analog signal from the analog output unit 321 with a digital signal superimposed on it. After the processing of step S19 is completed, the processing may proceed to step S15 described above. Note that if the user performs an operation to reselect the processing unit 35, or if the processing units 35 included in the processing group are changed, the processing may proceed to step S11.

[0054] According to the above operation, the processing units 35 are grouped into processing groups, and after one of the processing groups is selected in response to a user operation, the processing units 35 included in the selected processing group are individually selected. Therefore, the processing units 35 can be selected in stages, thereby reducing the effort required to select each processing unit 35. For example, if none of the processing units 35 included in a processing group are to be selected, the processing group can be deselected, thereby deselecting all of the processing units 35 in the processing group at once. This makes the selection process more efficient than when each processing unit 35 is deselected individually.

[0055] (1.3. Relationship between processing group and processing unit 35) 3 shows the processing units 35 included in each processing group. The right side of the figure shows whether each processing unit 35 is enabled or disabled when the transmission unit 3 is used as a pressure transmitter (i.e., when the field device 1 is used as a pressure measurement system), when the transmission unit 3 is used as a temperature transmitter (i.e., when the field device 1 is used as a temperature measurement system), when the transmission unit 3 is used as a differential pressure flow transmitter (i.e., when the field device 1 is used as a differential pressure flow measurement system), or when the transmission unit 3 is used as a differential pressure transmitter (i.e., when the field device 1 is used as a digital remote differential pressure measurement system).

[0056] In this embodiment, as an example, the processing units 35 of the transmission unit 3 are divided into four groups: an input arithmetic processing group, a type processing group, an output arithmetic processing group, and an analog output processing group.

[0057] (1.3.1. Input Calculation Processing Group) Each processing unit 35 included in the input calculation processing group may perform data processing to adjust the measurement data supplied from the data acquisition unit 30, or may perform data processing to adjust the measurement data according to the type of input measurement data. The input calculation processing group may include a processing unit 35 that performs "user input adjustment", a processing unit 35 that performs "pressure value correction", and a processing unit 35 that performs "input damping".

[0058] The "user input adjustment" may be data processing that converts the measurement data using a preset linear equation. At least one of the slope and intercept defining the linear equation may be arbitrarily set by the user or the manufacturer of the transmission unit 3 in response to instructions from the user.

[0059] "Pressure value correction" may be data processing that performs correction specific to calculating pressure values ​​when input measurement data indicates pressure. Correction specific to calculating pressure values ​​may be, for example, correction to eliminate fluctuations in measurement data caused by expansion or contraction of the sealed fluid used to transmit pressure in the pressure guiding pipe due to temperature changes, or correction to convert abnormal measurement data values ​​to normal values ​​when the high-pressure side or low-pressure side of the pressure guiding pipe is installed incorrectly.

[0060] "Input damping" may be a data process that damps sudden fluctuations in values ​​when the measured data values ​​are in a transient state, or may be a data process that adjusts the rate of fluctuation to a preset rate.

[0061] (1.3.2. Type Processing Group) Each processing unit 35 included in the type processing group may perform data processing according to the type of output data (e.g., calculation processing according to the physical quantity to be indicated by the output data), in other words, may perform data processing according to which physical quantity the field device 1 is used as a measurement system for. In the present embodiment, as an example, each processing unit 35 included in the type processing group may perform data processing according to the type and number of input measurement data, in addition to the type of output data. At least one processing unit 35 included in the type processing group may perform multi-input single-output data processing in which multiple data are input and a single data is output. The type processing group may include a processing unit 35 that performs "two-input temperature calculation," a processing unit 35 that performs "differential pressure flow rate calculation," and a processing unit 35 that performs "digital remote differential pressure calculation."

[0062] The "two-input temperature calculation" may be data processing when the field device 1 is used as a two-input temperature measurement system, and may calculate a single piece of measurement data about temperature from two pieces of measurement data about temperature. The calculated measurement data may be the average or the difference between the values ​​of the two pieces of measurement data that are input.

[0063] The "differential pressure type flow rate calculation" may be data processing when the field device 1 is used as a differential pressure type flow rate measurement system, and may calculate measurement data about flow rate from measurement data about differential pressure and measurement data about temperature.

[0064] The "digital remote differential pressure calculation" may be data processing when the field device 1 is used as a digital remote differential pressure measurement system, and may calculate measurement data about differential pressure from two pieces of measurement data about pressure.

[0065] (1.3.3. Output Calculation Processing Group) Each processing unit 35 included in the output calculation processing group may perform data processing to fit the value of the measurement data within a predetermined range. The output calculation processing group may include a processing unit 35 that performs "scaling normalization," a processing unit 35 that performs "square root extraction," a processing unit 35 that performs "broken line approximation," a processing unit 35 that performs "low cut," and a processing unit 35 that performs "forward and reverse flow rate calculation."

[0066] "Scaling normalization" may be data processing that normalizes the values ​​of the measurement data to within a predetermined range (in this embodiment, for example, a range of 0.0 to 1.0).

[0067] The "square root operation" may be data processing that calculates a square root, and may be used to convert measurement data such as differential pressure values ​​that have square-law characteristics into measurement data that have linear characteristics.

[0068] "Linear approximation" may be a data processing method that approximates the values ​​of input measurement data to points on multiple lines connected in a line pattern in order to correct for the nonlinearity of the input measurement data. As an example, in "linear approximation," if the value of measurement data, such as the liquid level in an irregularly shaped tank, is 0.1 (= 10(%)), the value may be corrected to 0.15 (= 15(%)), and if the value of measurement data is 0.8 (= 80(%)), the value may be corrected to 0.7 (= 70(%)).

[0069] "Low cut" may be data processing that sets the value of measurement data to a value equal to or greater than a lower limit value, and as an example, if the value of measurement data is less than 0, the value may be set to 0.

[0070] The "forward and reverse flow rate calculation" may be a process of converting measurement data within a range of -100 to 100 into measurement data within a range of 0.0 to 1.0 (0 to 100(%)).

[0071] (1.3.4. Analog Output Processing Group) Each processing unit 35 included in the analog output processing group may perform data processing to calculate an analog output value of the measurement data (in this embodiment, as an example, a value in the range of 4 to 20). The analog output group may include a processing unit 35 that performs "output damping", a processing unit 35 that performs "analog value calculation", a processing unit 35 that performs "ambient temperature correction", a processing unit 35 that performs "user output adjustment", and a processing unit 35 that performs "analog output".

[0072] "Output damping" may be a data process that damps sudden fluctuations in values ​​when the measured data values ​​are in a transient state, or may be a data process that adjusts the rate of fluctuation to a preset rate.

[0073] "Calculating an analog value" may be data processing that converts input measurement data in the range of 0.0 to 1.0 into a value of 4 to 20 (mA).

[0074] "Ambient temperature correction" may be data processing that corrects output fluctuations due to the temperature of an analog circuit that constitutes the analog output unit 321. The temperature of the transmission unit 3 may be measured by a temperature measurement unit (not shown).

[0075] The "user output adjustment" may be data processing that converts the measurement data using a preset linear equation. At least one of the slope and intercept defining the linear equation may be arbitrarily set by the user or the manufacturer of the transmission unit 3 in response to instructions from the user.

[0076] "Analog output" may be data processing in which an analog value of the measurement data is supplied to the analog output unit 321 and output.

[0077] (1.4. Temporary data processing flow 350k) FIG. 4 shows a hypothetical data processing flow 350k.

[0078] The hypothetical data processing flow 350k may have, as processing groups G, one or more parallel input arithmetic processing groups G1 provided for each measurement data that can be acquired by the data acquisition unit 30, a type processing group G2 connected to the output side of each input arithmetic processing group G1, an input arithmetic processing group G3 connected to the output side of the type processing group G2, an output arithmetic processing group G4 connected to the output side of the input arithmetic processing group G3, and an analog output processing group G5 connected to the output side of the output arithmetic processing group G4.

[0079] Each of the input calculation processing groups G1 may include a processing unit 35 that performs "user input adjustment," a processing unit 35 that performs "pressure value correction," and a processing unit 35 that performs "input damping," connected in order from the input side to the output side.

[0080] Although not shown, the type processing group G2 may include a processing unit 35 that performs "two-input temperature calculation," a processing unit 35 that performs "differential pressure-based flow rate calculation," and a processing unit 35 that performs "digital remote-based differential pressure calculation," connected in this order from the input side to the output side. As an example, in the present embodiment, these processing units 35 may perform multi-input, single-output data processing when enabled, acquiring measurement data from multiple input calculation groups G1 and outputting a single piece of data. When disabled, these processing units 35 may simply output one or more pieces of input measurement data.

[0081] Like the input calculation processing group G1, the input calculation processing group G3 may include a processing unit 35 that performs "user input adjustment," a processing unit 35 that performs "pressure value correction," and a processing unit 35 that performs "input damping," connected in that order from the input side to the output side. The "input damping" processing unit 35, which is located closest to the output side in the input calculation processing group G3, may supply the measurement data to the field communication unit 322 and output it as a digital signal, in addition to supplying the measurement data to the output calculation processing group G4.

[0082] The output calculation group G4 may include a processing unit 35 that performs "scaling normalization," a processing unit 35 that performs "square root calculation," a processing unit 35 that performs "broken line approximation," a processing unit 35 that performs "low cut," and a processing unit 35 that performs "forward and reverse flow rate calculation," connected in order from the input side to the output side.

[0083] The analog output processing group G5 may include a processing unit 35 that performs "output damping," a processing unit 35 that performs "analog value calculation," a processing unit 35 that performs "ambient temperature correction," a processing unit 35 that performs "user output adjustment," and a processing unit 35 that performs "analog output," all connected in this order from the input side to the output side. The "analog output" processing unit 35 that is located closest to the output side in the analog output processing group G5 may supply measurement data to an analog output unit 321, which outputs the measurement data as an analog signal.

[0084] (1.5. Specific Example of Data Processing Flow 350) 5 shows a data processing flow 350 when the field device 1 is used as a pressure measurement system. In this case, a pressure sensor device 2 may be connected to the connection unit 300 of the transmission unit 3, and among the multiple input arithmetic processing groups G1 and G3, a single input arithmetic processing group G1 to which pressure measurement data is input may be enabled, and each of its processing units 35 may be enabled. Also, the output arithmetic processing group G4 may be enabled, and each of its processing units 35 may be enabled. Also, the analog output processing group G5 may be enabled, and among its processing units 35, the processing unit 35 that performs "analog value calculation," the processing unit 35 that performs "ambient temperature correction," the processing unit 35 that performs "user output adjustment," and the processing unit 35 that performs "analog output" may be enabled.

[0085] 6 shows a data processing flow 350 when the field device 1 is used as a temperature measurement system. In this case, two temperature sensor devices 2 may be connected to the connection unit 300 of the transmission unit 3. Of the multiple input arithmetic processing groups G1 and G3, the two input arithmetic processing groups G1, to which temperature measurement data is input, may be enabled, and the processing units 35 that perform "user input adjustment" and "input damping" may be enabled among the processing units 35. Furthermore, the type processing group G2 may be enabled, and the processing unit 35 that performs "two-input temperature calculation" may be enabled among the processing units 35. Furthermore, the output arithmetic processing group G4 may be enabled, and the processing unit 35 that performs "scaling normalization" may be enabled among the processing units 35. Furthermore, the analog output processing group G5 may be enabled, and the processing units 35 may be enabled.

[0086] 7 shows a data processing flow 350 when the field device 1 is used as a differential pressure flow measurement system. In this case, a differential pressure sensor device 2 and a temperature sensor device 2 may be connected to the connection unit 300 of the transmission unit 3. Of the multiple input arithmetic processing groups G1, the input arithmetic processing group G1 to which differential pressure measurement data is input may be enabled, and its respective processing units 35 may be enabled. Alternatively, the input arithmetic processing group G1 to which temperature measurement data is input may be enabled, and its respective processing units 35 that perform "user input adjustment" and "input damping" may be enabled. Furthermore, the type processing group G2 may be enabled, and its respective processing units 35 that perform "differential pressure flow rate calculation" may be enabled. Furthermore, the input arithmetic processing group G3 may be enabled, and its respective processing units 35 that perform "user input adjustment" and "input damping" may be enabled. Furthermore, the output calculation processing group G4 may be enabled, and among its respective processing units 35, the processing unit 35 that performs "scaling normalization" and the processing unit 35 that performs "forward / reverse flow rate calculation" may be enabled. Furthermore, the analog output processing group G5 may be enabled, and among its respective processing units 35, the processing unit 35 that performs "analog value calculation", the processing unit 35 that performs "ambient temperature correction", the processing unit 35 that performs "user output adjustment", and the processing unit 35 that performs "analog output" may be enabled.

[0087] 8 shows a data processing flow 350 when the field device 1 is used as a digital remote differential pressure measurement system. In this case, two pressure sensor devices 2 may be connected to the connection unit 300 of the transmission unit 3. Of the multiple input calculation processing groups G1, two input calculation processing groups G1 to which pressure measurement data is input may be activated, and the processing units 35 thereof may be activated, including the processing unit 35 that performs "user input adjustment," the processing unit 35 that performs "pressure value correction," and the processing unit 35 that performs "input damping." Furthermore, the type processing group G2 may be activated, and the processing unit 35 that performs "digital remote differential pressure calculation" may be activated. Furthermore, the input calculation processing group G3 may be activated, and the processing units 35 that perform "user input adjustment" and the processing unit 35 that performs "input damping" may be activated. Furthermore, the output calculation processing group G4 may be enabled, and the processing units 35 thereof that perform "scaling normalization", "square root extraction", "broken line approximation", "low cut", and "forward / reverse flow rate calculation" may be enabled. Furthermore, the analog output processing group G5 may be enabled, and the processing units 35 thereof that perform "analog value calculation", "ambient temperature correction", "user output adjustment", and "analog output" may be enabled.

[0088] (1.6. Modification of the First Embodiment) 9 shows a field device 1A according to this modification. A transmission unit 3A of the field device 1A has a detection unit 36, a selection unit 33A, and a setting unit 34A. In the field device 1A according to this modification, components that are substantially the same as those shown in FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0089] The detection unit 36 ​​detects the type of sensor device 2 connected to the data acquisition unit 30 and supplies a signal indicating the type to the selection unit 33A. The detection unit 36 ​​may detect the type of each sensor device 2 connected to the connection unit 300, and when multiple sensor devices 2 are connected to the connection unit 300, may supply a signal indicating each of the multiple sensor devices 2 to the selection unit 33A. The detection unit 36 ​​may detect the type of sensor device 2 in various ways.

[0090] For example, the detection unit 36 ​​may detect the type of sensor device 2 connected to the data acquisition unit 30 based on the content of communication with the sensor device 2. As an example, the detection unit 36 ​​may inquire of the sensor device 2 about the type and identification information of the sensor device 2, and may detect the type of the sensor device 2 based on the content of the reply. Alternatively, the detection unit 36 ​​may detect the type of the sensor device 2 based on whether the measurement data acquired by the data acquisition unit 30 is represented by voltage, current, or frequency. For example, if the measurement data is represented by voltage, that is, if the measurement data is acquired as a voltage signal, the detection unit 36 ​​may detect the sensor device 2 as a temperature sensor (for example, a thermocouple). If the measurement data is represented by frequency, that is, if the measurement data is acquired as a frequency signal, the detection unit 36 ​​may detect the sensor device as a vibration-type pressure sensor.

[0091] Furthermore, when the connection unit 300 of the data acquisition unit 30 is connectable to the sensor device 2 in a connection manner corresponding to the type of the sensor device 2, the detection unit 36 ​​may detect the type of sensor device 2 connected to the connection unit 300 based on the connection manner between the sensor device 2 and the connection unit 300. As an example, the connection unit 300 may have a connection port for each type of sensor device 2, and the detection unit 36 ​​may detect the type of sensor device 2 based on the connection port used. The connection unit 300 may have a hardware switch or jumper pin corresponding to the connector shape for each type of sensor device 2, and the detection unit 36 ​​may detect the type of sensor device 2 based on a signal from the hardware switch or jumper pin.

[0092] The selection unit 33A selects, from among the multiple processing units 35, a processing unit 35 that is pre-stored in association with the type of sensor device 2 connected to the data acquisition unit 30. The selection unit 33A may pre-store identification information of each processing unit 35 to be activated for each combination of types of sensor devices 2 that may be indicated by a signal from the detection unit 36, and may select, from among the multiple processing units 35 in the hypothetical data processing flow 350k, a processing unit 35 that corresponds to the combination of sensor devices 2 detected by the detection unit 36. The selection unit 33A in this modification may automatically select a processing unit 35 without user operation. The selection unit 33A may select one of multiple processing groups in accordance with a signal from the detection unit 36 ​​indicating the type of sensor device 2, and then individually select a processing unit 35 included in the selected processing group. The selection unit 33A may supply a setting signal indicating the selected processing unit 35 to the setting unit 34.

[0093] The setting unit 34A acquires the setting signal supplied from the selection unit 33A as a signal according to the type of measurement data, and sets the data processing flow 350 by selectively combining the processing units 35 according to the signal.

[0094] According to the transmission unit 3A described above, the type of the sensor device 2 connected to the data acquisition unit 30 is detected, and a processing unit 35 that is stored in advance in association with the type of the connected sensor device 2 is selected from among the multiple processing units 35, and the data processing flow 350 is set. Therefore, by connecting the sensor device 2 to the data acquisition unit 30, the data processing flow 350 can be automatically set.

[0095] Furthermore, since the type of the sensor device 2 is detected based on the content of communication with the sensor device 2 and the connection state, the type of the sensor device 2 can be detected accurately.

[0096] In the above modification, the transmitter 3A has been described as including the selector 33A, but the transmitter 3A may not include the selector 33A. If the transmitter 3A does not include the selector 33A, the setting unit 34A may set the data processing flow 350 by combining, from among the multiple processors 35, processors 35 that have been stored in advance in association with the type of sensor device 2 connected to the data acquisition unit 30.

[0097] (1.7. Other Modifications) In the first embodiment and the modified example described above, the data processing flow 350 is set according to the type of measurement data acquired by the data acquiring unit 30. However, the data processing flow may also be set according to the communication protocol of the communication unit 32. For example, the communication unit 32 of the transmission unit 3 may be replaceable with another communication unit that performs digital communication using a communication protocol such as Foundation Fieldbus or PROFIBUS. When the other communication unit is used in the field device 1, the setting unit 34 may set the data processing flow 350 in which at least the output arithmetic processing group G4 and the analog output processing group G5 are disabled. Alternatively, the communication unit 32 may be able to select the communication protocol to be used between HART (registered trademark) or BRAIN and Foundation Fieldbus or PROFIBUS. When Foundation Fieldbus or PROFIBUS is selected as the communication protocol to be used, the setting unit 34 may set the data processing flow 350 in which at least the output arithmetic processing group G4 and the analog output processing group G5 are disabled.

[0098] Although each processing unit 35 has been described as a software module, it may be a physical computing device that performs unique data processing. In this case, each processing unit 35 does not need to be stored in the storage unit 31.

[0099] Furthermore, although the hypothetical data processing flow 350k has been described as having multiple inputs and one output, it may have one input and one output if only a single sensor device 2 can be connected to the connection unit 300. In this case, the processing units 35 in the hypothetical data processing flow 350k may be connected in series.

[0100] Furthermore, although the transmitter 3 has been described as including the communication unit 32, it may not be provided. In this case, the measurement data after data processing by the data processing flow 350 may be stored in the storage unit 31, or may be transmitted to the controller via a communication device externally connected to the transmitter 3.

[0101] Furthermore, although the transmitter 3 has been described as an example of a device, the field device 1 may also be used as the device. In this case, the sensor device 2 may be built into the field device 1 or may be externally attached.

[0102] (2. Second Embodiment) 10 shows a field device 1B and a generating device 5 according to this embodiment. In the field device 1B according to this embodiment, components that are substantially the same as those shown in FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0103] (2.1. Field Device 1B) The field device 1B according to this embodiment has a transmission unit 3B connected to a preset sensor device 2 of any type. The transmission unit 3B has a storage unit 31B, and software 351 generated by the generation device 5 may be installed in the storage unit 31B. After the software 351 is installed, the field device 1B may be detached from the generation device 5, and the software 351 may process measurement data from the sensor device 2.

[0104] (2.2.Generation device 5) The generating device 5 is a device that generates software 351 to be incorporated into a device that processes measurement data (in this embodiment, as an example, the transmission unit 3B of the field device 1B), and is equipped with a memory unit 51, a selection unit 52, a generating unit 53, and an installing unit 54.

[0105] (2.1.1. Storage section 51) The storage unit 51 stores a plurality of processing units 35. The plurality of processing units 35 may be software modules that perform unique data processing, and may perform the same data processing as the processing unit 35 stored in the storage unit 51 in the first embodiment.

[0106] Similar to the processing units 35 in the first embodiment, the multiple processing units 35 may be connected in a predetermined order to form a provisional data processing flow 350k. The multiple processing units 35 in the provisional data processing flow 350k may be selected to form a data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data. As a result, the multiple processing units 35 according to this embodiment may be incorporated into the data processing flow in a predetermined order.

[0107] The storage unit 51 may further store software 351 generated by combining the processing units 35. The software 351 may be installed in the storage unit 31B of the field device 1B, and may form a data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data.

[0108] (2.1.2. Selection unit 52) The selection unit 52 selects, in response to a user operation, one of the multiple processing units 35 (as an example, the multiple processing units 35 included in the virtual data processing flow 350k in this embodiment) to be incorporated into the software 351. The selection unit 52 may supply the generation unit 53 with a signal (also referred to as a setting signal) indicating the selected processing unit 35.

[0109] (2.1.3. Generation part 53) The generation unit 53 acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data processed by the transmission unit 3B, and selectively combines a plurality of processing units 35 corresponding to the signal to generate software 351. The generation unit 53 may include a setting unit 531 and a compiler 532.

[0110] (2.1.4(1). Setting unit 531) The setting unit 531 acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data to be processed by the transmission unit 3B, and selectively combines processing units 35 corresponding to the signal from among the multiple processing units 35 in the storage unit 51 to set a data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data in the transmission unit 3B. The setting unit 531 may acquire a setting signal from the selection unit 52 as a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data. The setting unit 531 may set the data processing flow by leaving only the processing units 35 indicated by the setting signal from among the processing units 35 included in the tentative data processing flow 350k. The setting unit 531 may supply the contents of the set data processing flow to the compiler 532.

[0111] (2.1.4(2).Compiler 532) The compiler 532 generates software 351 for the data processing flow set by the setting unit 531. The compiler 532 may generate software 351 in a format executable by the transmission unit 3 from software modules of each processing unit 35 written in a high-level language (also referred to as a high-level language). The compiler 532 may store the generated software 351 in the storage unit 51.

[0112] (2.1.5. Installation Section 54) The installer 54 installs the software 351 generated by the generator 53 into the storage unit 51 of the transmitter 3B. This may enable the field device 1B to perform data processing using the software 351 on the measurement data generated by the sensor device 2.

[0113] According to the above-described generating device 5, a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data to be processed by the transmitting unit 3B is acquired, and a plurality of processing units 35 corresponding to the signal are selectively combined to generate the software 351. Therefore, each piece of software 351 corresponding to the type of measurement data can be generated by a single generating device 5, and therefore it is not necessary to prepare separate generating devices 5 for different types of measurement data, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the generating device 5.

[0114] (2.2.Operation) 11 shows the operation of the generating device 5. The generating device 5 generates the software 351 by performing the processes of steps S51 to S53.

[0115] In step S51, the selection unit 52 selects one of the plurality of processing units 35 in response to a user operation. The selection unit 52 may select a processing unit 35 that performs data processing within the data processing flow of the software 351, from the plurality of processing units 35 that form the provisional data processing flow 350k. As in the first embodiment, the plurality of processing units 35 in the storage unit 51 may be grouped into a plurality of processing groups G, and the selection unit 52 may select one of the plurality of processing groups G in response to a user operation, and then individually select the processing units 35 included in the selected processing group G.

[0116] In step S53, the generation unit 53 acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data to be processed by the transmission unit 3B, and generates software 351 by selectively combining multiple processing units 35 corresponding to the signal. The generation unit 53 may acquire a setting signal from the selection unit 52 as a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data, and may generate software 351 that realizes the data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data by leaving only the processing units 35 indicated by the setting signal among the processing units 35 included in the provisional data processing flow 350k. After the processing of step S53 is completed, the generation device 53 may terminate its operation, or the generated software 351 may be installed in the transmission unit 3B of the field device 1B by the installation unit 54.

[0117] (2.3. Modification of the second embodiment) In the second embodiment, the generating device 5 is described as including the installation unit 54, but may not be provided with the installation unit 54. In this case, the generating device 5 may transmit the generated software 351 to an external device.

[0118] (3. Modifications of the First and Second Embodiments) In the above first and second embodiments, the data acquisition unit 30 has been described as acquiring the measurement data from the sensor device 2, but the data may be acquired from the storage units 31 and 51.

[0119] Although the multiple processing units 35 are described as being incorporated into the data processing flow 350 in a predetermined order, they may be incorporated into the data processing flow 350 in other ways. In this case, the multiple processing units 35 in the storage unit 31, 51 do not need to have previously formed a provisional data processing flow 350. The setting unit 34, 531 may acquire a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data to be processed by the transmission unit 3, 3B, and may set the data processing flow 350 in which the processing units 35 corresponding to the signal are arranged in the order corresponding to the signal. As an example, the setting unit 34, 531 may pre-store the contents of the data processing flow 350 in which the processing units 35 that should perform data processing on the measurement data are arranged in the processing order for each type of measurement data, and may set the data processing flow 350 corresponding to the type of measurement data indicated by the acquired signal. Alternatively, the setting unit 34, 531 may acquire, as a signal according to the type of measurement data, a signal indicating the processing units 35 to be included in the data processing flow 350 and the order of the processing units 35 within the data processing flow 350 from the selection unit 33, 52, etc., and set the data processing flow 350 corresponding to the signal. In these cases, since the order of the processing units 35 within the data processing flow 350 can be set, an appropriate data processing flow 350 according to the type of measurement data can be set.

[0120] Here, when the setting unit 34, 531 sets the data processing flow 350 by acquiring a signal indicating the processing units 35 to be included in the data processing flow 350 and the order of the processing units 35 within the data processing flow 350 as a signal according to the type of measurement data, at least one processing unit 35 may be incorporated into multiple positions within the data processing flow 350. This makes it possible to set a more appropriate data processing flow 350 according to the type of measurement data.

[0121] Furthermore, when the setting unit 34, 531 acquires from the selection unit 33, 52 a signal indicating the processing units 35 to be included in the data processing flow 350 and the order of the processing units 35 within the data processing flow 350 as a signal according to the type of measurement data, and sets the data processing flow 350, the selection unit 33, 52 that outputs the signal may select the order of each processing group G including a plurality of processing units 35 whose order is determined in advance, and then select the processing unit 35 to be used within each processing group G. In this case, of the plurality of processing units 35 in the storage unit 31, 51, two or more processing units 35 in each processing group G may be incorporated into the data processing flow 350 in a predetermined order.

[0122] Various embodiments of the present invention may also be described with reference to flowcharts and block diagrams, where the blocks may represent (1) stages of a process in which operations are performed or (2) sections of an apparatus responsible for performing the operations. Particular stages and sections may be implemented by dedicated circuitry, programmable circuitry provided with computer-readable instructions stored on a computer-readable medium, and / or a processor provided with computer-readable instructions stored on a computer-readable medium. Dedicated circuitry may include digital and / or analog hardware circuitry, and may include integrated circuits (ICs) and / or discrete circuits. Programmable circuitry may include reconfigurable hardware circuitry, including logical AND, OR, XOR, NAND, NOR, and other logic operations, flip-flops, registers, memory elements such as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic arrays (PLAs), and the like.

[0123] A computer-readable medium may include any tangible device capable of storing instructions that are executed by an appropriate device, such that the computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon comprises an article of manufacture containing instructions that can be executed to create means for performing the operations specified in the flowcharts or block diagrams. Examples of computer-readable media may include electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, and semiconductor storage media. More specific examples of computer-readable media may include floppy disks, diskettes, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), static random access memory (SRAM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disc (DVD), Blu-ray (RTM) disc, memory stick, integrated circuit card, and the like.

[0124] The computer readable instructions may include either assembler instructions, Instruction Set Architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine-dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state-setting data, or source or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Smalltalk®, JAVA®, C++, etc., and conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages.

[0125] The computer-readable instructions may be provided to a processor or programmable circuitry of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus, either locally or over a wide-area network (WAN) such as a local area network (LAN), the Internet, etc., which executes the computer-readable instructions to create means for performing the operations specified in the flowcharts or block diagrams. Examples of processors include computer processors, processing units, microprocessors, digital signal processors, controllers, microcontrollers, etc.

[0126] 12 illustrates an example of a computer 2200 in which aspects of the present invention may be embodied, in whole or in part. Programs installed on the computer 2200 may cause the computer 2200 to function as or perform operations associated with an apparatus or one or more sections of the apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention, and / or to perform a process or steps of a process according to embodiments of the present invention. Such programs may be executed by the CPU 2212 to cause the computer 2200 to perform specific operations associated with some or all of the blocks of the flowcharts and block diagrams described herein.

[0127] A computer 2200 according to this embodiment includes a CPU 2212, a RAM 2214, a graphics controller 2216, and a display device 2218, which are interconnected by a host controller 2210. The computer 2200 also includes input / output units such as a communication interface 2222, a hard disk drive 2224, a DVD-ROM drive 2226, and an IC card drive, which are connected to the host controller 2210 via an input / output controller 2220. The computer also includes legacy input / output units such as a ROM 2230 and a keyboard 2242, which are connected to the input / output controller 2220 via an input / output chip 2240.

[0128] The CPU 2212 operates according to programs stored in the ROM 2230 and RAM 2214, thereby controlling each unit. The graphics controller 2216 acquires image data generated by the CPU 2212 into a frame buffer or the like provided in the RAM 2214 or into the graphics controller 2216 itself, and causes the image data to be displayed on the display device 2218.

[0129] The communication interface 2222 communicates with other electronic devices via a network. The hard disk drive 2224 stores programs and data used by the CPU 2212 in the computer 2200. The DVD-ROM drive 2226 reads programs or data from the DVD-ROM 2201 and provides the programs or data to the hard disk drive 2224 via the RAM 2214. The IC card drive reads programs and data from an IC card and / or writes programs and data to an IC card.

[0130] The ROM 2230 stores therein a boot program or the like that is executed by the computer 2200 upon activation, and / or programs that depend on the hardware of the computer 2200. The input / output chip 2240 may also connect various input / output units to the input / output controller 2220 via a parallel port, a serial port, a keyboard port, a mouse port, etc.

[0131] The programs are provided by a computer-readable medium such as a DVD-ROM 2201 or an IC card. The programs are read from the computer-readable medium, installed in the hard disk drive 2224, RAM 2214, or ROM 2230, which are also examples of computer-readable media, and executed by the CPU 2212. Information processing described in these programs is read by the computer 2200, and brings about cooperation between the programs and the various types of hardware resources described above. An apparatus or method may be configured by realizing information manipulation or processing in accordance with the use of the computer 2200.

[0132] For example, when communication is performed between the computer 2200 and an external device, the CPU 2212 may execute a communication program loaded into the RAM 2214 and instruct the communication interface 2222 to perform communication processing based on the processing described in the communication program. Under the control of the CPU 2212, the communication interface 2222 reads transmission data stored in a transmission buffer processing area provided in the RAM 2214, the hard disk drive 2224, the DVD-ROM 2201, or a recording medium such as an IC card, and transmits the read transmission data to the network, or writes reception data received from the network to a reception buffer processing area or the like provided on the recording medium.

[0133] The CPU 2212 may also cause all or a necessary portion of a file or database stored on an external recording medium such as the hard disk drive 2224, the DVD-ROM drive 2226 (DVD-ROM 2201), an IC card, etc. to be read into the RAM 2214, and perform various types of processing on the data on the RAM 2214. The CPU 2212 then writes back the processed data to the external recording medium.

[0134] Various types of information, such as various types of programs, data, tables, and databases, may be stored on the recording medium and may undergo information processing. The CPU 2212 may perform various types of processing on data read from the RAM 2214, including various types of operations, information processing, conditional judgment, conditional branching, unconditional branching, information search / replacement, etc., as described throughout this disclosure and specified by the instruction sequences of the programs, and write the results back to the RAM 2214. The CPU 2212 may also search for information in a file, database, etc. on the recording medium. For example, if multiple entries each having an attribute value of a first attribute associated with an attribute value of a second attribute are stored on the recording medium, the CPU 2212 may search for an entry that matches a condition specified by the attribute value of the first attribute from among the multiple entries, read the attribute value of the second attribute stored in the entry, and thereby obtain the attribute value of the second attribute associated with the first attribute that satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0135] The above-described programs or software modules may be stored in a computer-readable medium on or near the computer 2200. A recording medium such as a hard disk or RAM provided in a server system connected to a dedicated communication network or the Internet can also be used as a computer-readable medium, thereby providing the programs to the computer 2200 via the network.

[0136] Although the present invention has been described above using embodiments, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and improvements can be made to the above embodiments. It is clear from the claims that such modifications and improvements can also be included within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0137] It should be noted that the execution order of each process, such as operations, procedures, steps, and stages, in the devices, systems, programs, and methods shown in the claims, specifications, and drawings is not specifically stated as "before," "prior to," etc., and that the processes can be performed in any order unless the output of a previous process is used in a subsequent process. Even if the operational flow in the claims, specifications, and drawings is described using "first," "next," etc. for convenience, this does not mean that the processes must be performed in this order. [Explanation of symbols]

[0138] 1 Field devices 2. Sensor device 3 Transmission section 5 Generator 30 Data Acquisition Section 31 Storage section 32 Communications Department 33 Selection section 34 Setting section 35 Processing section 36 Detector 51 Storage section 52 Selection section 53 Generation part 54 Installation section 300 Connection 301 Data Supply Department 321 Analog output section 322 Field Communications Department 350 Data Processing Flow 351 Software 531 Settings 532 compiler 2200 Computer 2201 DVD-ROM 2210 host controller 2212 CPU 2214 RAM 2216 Graphics Controller 2218 Display Device 2220 Input / Output Controller 2222 communication interface 2224 hard disk drive 2226 DVD-ROM drive 2230 ROM 2240 I / O chip 2242 keyboard

Claims

1. a data acquisition unit that acquires measurement data; A plurality of processing units each performing unique data processing; a setting unit that acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data, and selectively combines processing units among the plurality of processing units according to the signal to set a data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data; a selection unit that selects one of the plurality of processing units and supplies the signal indicating the selected processing unit to the setting unit; a detection unit that detects the type of the sensor device connected to the data acquisition unit and supplies the signal indicating the type to the selection unit; Equipped with The selection unit selects, from the plurality of processing units, a processing unit that is stored in advance in association with a type of sensor device connected to the data acquisition unit.

2. the data acquisition unit has a connection unit that can be connected to the sensor device in a connection mode corresponding to the type of the sensor device; The device according to claim 1 , wherein the detection unit detects the type of the sensor device connected to the connection unit based on a connection state between the sensor device and the connection unit.

3. the data acquisition unit acquires measurement data from a sensor device; The device according to claim 1 , wherein the detection unit detects the type of the sensor device connected to the data acquisition unit based on the content of communication with the sensor device.

4. the plurality of processing units are connected in a predetermined order, The device according to claim 1 , wherein the setting unit selectively enables a processing unit from among the plurality of processing units in response to the signal.

5. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the setting unit is capable of incorporating two or more of the plurality of processing units into the data processing flow in a predetermined order.

6. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the setting unit sets the data processing flow in which processing units corresponding to the signal, among the plurality of processing units, are arranged in an order corresponding to the signal.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the setting unit incorporates at least one processing unit of the plurality of processing units into a plurality of positions within the data processing flow.

8. the data acquisition unit is capable of acquiring a plurality of pieces of measurement data, The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the setting section is capable of setting a multiple-input, single-output data processing flow that receives the plurality of measurement data as input and outputs a single piece of data.

9. each of the plurality of processing units is a software module; The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a storage unit that stores the plurality of processing units.

10. A method executed by an apparatus including a data acquisition unit that acquires measurement data and a plurality of processing units that each perform unique data processing, a detection step of detecting a type of sensor device connected to the data acquisition unit; a selection step of selecting a processing unit stored in advance in association with the type of the detected sensor device from among the plurality of processing units and outputting a signal indicating the selected processing unit; a setting step of acquiring the signal, selectively combining processing units corresponding to the signal among the plurality of processing units, and setting a data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data; A method for providing the above.

11. Computer, a data acquisition unit that acquires measurement data; A plurality of processing units each performing unique data processing; a setting unit that acquires a signal corresponding to the type of measurement data, and selectively combines processing units among the plurality of processing units according to the signal to set a data processing flow to be performed on the measurement data; a selection unit that selects one of the plurality of processing units and supplies the signal indicating the selected processing unit to the setting unit; a detection unit that detects the type of the sensor device connected to the data acquisition unit and supplies the signal indicating the type to the selection unit; It functions as The selection unit is a program that selects, from the plurality of processing units, a processing unit that is stored in advance in association with the type of the sensor device connected to the data acquisition unit.

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