Method for computer-aided device setup for an installation of an industrial system

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (100) for the computer-aided device setup for an installation of an industrial system (1), in particular an electric machine and / or an industrial automation system.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Method for computer-aided device setup for an installation of an industrial plant

[0003] The present invention relates to a method for computer-aided device setup for an installation of an industrial plant.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] It is known that the components of an industrial plant can be interconnected in a centralized topology, in which a central control cabinet is directly connected to devices such as sensors and actuators. Alternatively, the plant can also be planned in a decentralized topology. This means that decentralized connection elements are provided, each of which connects one or more devices to provide automation functions. The decentralized topology offers the advantage of a more flexible system design, is easier to install, and can be more efficient and cost-effective.

[0006] However, installing the system can be complex in individual cases, especially if a large number of different devices are used.

[0007] For example, devices such as sensors and actuators today have numerous configuration options to adapt to their specific requirements within the system. They often offer digital interfaces through which parameterization can be performed. However, in order to enable parameterization, for example, via a software tool, the technical properties of the individual device must first be determined.

[0008] For example, it is known from the state of the art that device-specific description data such as IODD (IO Device Description) must be provided for the installed devices in industrial systems. This provides the device-specific information about the devices required for parameterization. FDI (Field Device Integration), ESI (EtherCAT Slave Information), and EDD (Electronic Device Description) are further alternatives to IODD for describing devices in an industrial system. Another option for device description is the use of DDL (Device Description Language). DDL is a language for describing the operation and parameterization of devices in process and production automation.

[0009] A disadvantage of conventional solutions is that manually providing device-specific description data and subsequent parameterization can be very time-consuming. However, manual processing is often unavoidable, as precise knowledge of the devices used and the actual system structure is required.

[0010] Disclosure of the invention

[0011] The invention relates to a method having the features of claim 1, a computer program having the features of claim 14, and a device having the features of claim 15. Further features and details of the invention emerge from the respective subclaims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the method according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the computer program according to the invention and the device according to the invention, and vice versa, so that a mutual reference is always possible with regard to the disclosure of the invention.

[0012] The subject matter of the invention is in particular a method for computer-aided device setup for an installation of an industrial plant, in particular an electrical machine and / or an industrial automation plant.

[0013] The method according to the invention comprises, in particular, providing an installation specification, in particular with a digital circuit diagram and / or with a mechanical plan and / or other installation information, in order to specify an at least partial structure of at least part of the system. In the at least partial structure, one or more devices and one or more master elements, the latter in particular as connection elements / modules, can be connected to one another in the field to provide automation functions electrically and / or for signal and / or data exchange. Preferably, one or more devices are each connected to one of the master elements in order to enable decentralized interconnection of the devices. The master elements can each be designed, for example, as a master for a communication system for digital communication, preferably as an IO-Link master.

[0014] The provision and / or the provided installation specification can serve to specify an at least partial structure of at least one part of the system. The at least partial structure can include a mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or fluid and / or pneumatic and / or electrical structure. This means, in particular, that the structure of the system is specified by different representations, such as a mechanical (MCAD) or electrical (ECAD) representation.

[0015] The provision of the installation specification can optionally be achieved by reading and / or processing digital information by at least one computer program. According to a further development, the processing can also include generating the installation specification. To enable provision, user input and / or data transmission of the digital information can also be provided.

[0016] The provision of the installation specification can also optionally be achieved by automatically determining a state and / or a topology and / or a wiring and / or a connection configuration of at least a partial structure of the system and preferably at least partially reading and / or recording this data electronically. For this purpose, for example, it can be electronically determined at the connection level (in particular the I / O level) of the devices and / or connection elements which devices and / or connection elements are connected to one another. Alternatively, it can be provided that the provision of the installation specification must be carried out without determining this at the connection level, since this is not yet technically possible before or at the time of installation, for example due to the lack of electronic commissioning and / or power supply. In this case, the installation specification can be a prefabricated installation specification, for example.

[0017] It is optionally possible for the installation specification – e.g., in the form of a circuit diagram – not to be specified, but to be provided by automatically and dynamically determining it from the (at least partially already installed) system (i.e., even without a specified circuit diagram). This determined installation specification can then be stored for later use for computer-assisted installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of the system.

[0018] It is also optionally possible for the master elements to be designed as a module and / or as a connection element. The master elements / modules / connection elements can optionally be designed as at least one of the following: fieldbus modules, master modules, IO-Link modules, distributors. In this case, it is possible for the respective master element to have at least one fieldbus connection and is therefore designed as a fieldbus module. At the same time, it is optionally possible for the respective master element and preferably fieldbus module to also have at least one or more device connection(s) in order to provide digital communication, preferably point-to-point communication, preferably IO-Link communication, with at least one of the devices or with exactly one device connection per device connection.Fieldbus communication can be provided via the fieldbus connection, preferably not point-to-point communication. The respective master element can optionally function as a master for point-to-point communication, e.g., as an IO-Link master. It can also optionally serve as a secondary device for fieldbus communication.

[0019] It is also optionally conceivable for the master elements to be designed as fieldbus modules and (simultaneously and / or individually) to have at least one connection for digital and / or point-to-point communication with at least one of the connected devices. The connection between the fieldbus modules and the devices can thus be implemented as a digital and / or point-to-point communication connection such as IO-Link. Furthermore, a fieldbus connection between the fieldbus modules and other fieldbus modules and / or between the fieldbus modules and each other (simultaneously) can also be provided.

[0020] In the at least partial configuration, devices and connection elements, the latter in particular in the form of master elements, preferably as modules / master modules, can also be connected to one another electrically and / or for signal and / or data exchange, particularly decentrally and / or in the field, to provide automation functions. The connection can be established, for example, via cable and / or wirelessly. The installation specification can specify the connections between the devices and the master elements. The installation specification can thus also be understood as a digital circuit diagram or a target plan.

[0021] The method according to the invention particularly comprises providing connection documentation in which the connection of the devices to the master elements is documented based on the provided installation specifications. This documentation can also include, in particular, documentation specifying which of the devices are connected to which connection of the master elements.

[0022] The method according to the invention particularly comprises providing at least one device-specific device specification for the connected devices. The device-specific device specification includes, for example, descriptive data such as an IODD file. Thus, the device-specific device specification is characterized by containing relevant information about the device's device configuration, such as manufacturer, model, functions, properties, and interfaces. This enables uniform and / or standardized communication with the connected devices. The device specification can be in digital form, e.g., as at least one file.

[0023] The method according to the invention particularly comprises initiating a transmission of the at least one device-specific device specification to at least one of the master elements and / or to at least one of the devices connected thereto. The provision and / or initiation of the transmission of the at least one device-specific device specification can be based on an automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation. The transmission can preferably take place via a communication system such as a fieldbus. Accordingly, a transmitting and / or receiving device for the communication system can be controlled to initiate the transmission.

[0024] The device specification can, for example, include the descriptive data, such as an IODD file, or it can already be the device parameterization. Computer-assisted device setup can therefore also include device parameterization. The device specification can also include a name, an IP address, a device-specific tag, and / or the correct IODD for the correct master elements.

[0025] The respective master element can be designed, for example, as a master for a digital and preferably point-to-point communication system and / or as an IO-Link master and / or a fieldbus master such as a ProfiNet master. Furthermore, the master element can also be designed as a fieldbus module and / or as an IO-Link module, which serves as a modular, decentralized connection to the devices. The respective module can enable the distribution of data and / or signals from a controller to one or more of the connected devices.

[0026] In addition to the device-specific device specification, a system and / or component description such as a GSDML or similar file (e.g., ESI) may be provided. This is used in particular to provide / store a configuration such as an IO-Link configuration in a central control device and / or in a module.

[0027] The system, in particular an industrial system, may comprise an electrical machine and / or an industrial automation system. Furthermore, the system, in particular an industrial system, may be configured at least partially as a mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or fluid and / or pneumatic and / or electrical system.

[0028] The method according to the invention can at least partially provide computer-assisted installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization and / or testing and / or operation of the system or of another system. For this purpose, the method can be carried out at least partially or completely by a data processing device, in particular comprising one or more computers. Computer-assisted is understood in particular to mean that automated functions are provided by the device. This can serve to support a user such as an installer when working on the system. The installation can, for example, relate to an initial installation or a reinstallation of the system or of another system, in which the system is constructed according to its predetermined topology. In concrete terms, the construction can comprise the installation and connection of several components of the system.This is preferably done based on a specified installation specification. Furthermore, commissioning may include setting up and / or testing the system, and maintenance may involve checking and / or repairing and / or replacing one or more of the system's components. Modernizing the system may also involve replacing components to add new / adapted or improved functionality to the system and / or to improve its efficiency and performance.

[0029] It is possible for the method according to the invention to comprise providing an installation specification, in particular with a digital circuit diagram and / or a mechanical plan. For this purpose, the installation specification can be retrieved, for example, in the form of digital data, e.g., from a data storage device or a database, and / or stored non-volatilely in a data processing device. The installation specification can comprise a target plan that at least partially specifies the desired structure of the system.

[0030] The provided installation specification can serve to specify an at least partial structure, in particular a mechanical and / or a fluid and / or a pneumatic and / or hydraulic and / or an electrical structure, of at least part of the system. In the specified at least partial structure, devices, in particular sensors and / or actuators, and at least one or more connection elements, in particular one or more modules, can be connected to provide automation functions. The connection can be electrical and / or for signal and / or data exchange and / or wired and / or wireless. Furthermore, the connection can be provided in the field and / or decentralized. For the connection, for example, one or more of the devices can be connected to ports of a respective connection element. The connection of the devices of the system to the connection elements can preferably be made in the field.In this context, "in the field" specifically means that the devices and / or connection elements are not centrally connected in the control cabinet, but are distributed at various locations within the system and can be interconnected there. This enables flexible and space-saving installation of the system and also facilitates on-site maintenance and repair work.

[0031] The one or more connection elements can be designed as at least one of the following and / or comprise at least one of the following: a module, a fieldbus module, a master element, preferably an IO-Link master and / or a fieldbus master and / or a master for a digital and preferably point-to-point communication system, a distributor, a terminal box, a power supply unit, a fuse, a connection card, a signal converter, a control unit, preferably an engine control unit, a part of a control device,

[0032] The connections between the components, i.e. the at least one connection element and the devices, can be provided such that each of the connection elements is used to connect to one or more of the devices. For this purpose, the respective connection element can have a plurality of connections for the devices. Specifically, it can be provided that the respective connection element has at least 2 or at least four or at least six connections in order to connect at least one of the devices to each of the connections. The connections can comprise electrical connections and / or data and / or signal connections. An electrical connection can also be understood to mean a connection to the electrical power supply. Signal exchange can also comprise analog signal exchange, data exchange preferably digital signal exchange. Furthermore, the connection can be provided in the field and / or decentrally.In the decentralized case, the connection is made in particular outside a central control device and / or outside a control cabinet directly in the field. Furthermore, the connection can be wired and / or wireless, i.e. the connection elements and / or devices can at least partially have a cable connection and / or a wireless interface. The connections can also be designed for connection to a plug-in connector. In addition, the connections of a respective connection element can also be provided on a housing of the connection element and can preferably each be electrically connected to a circuit board and / or electronics within the housing. The housing can have a seal and / or at least partially surround a potting compound for the electronics in order to enable a water-, dust- and / or moisture-proof, i.e. in particular IP67-compliant, design of the connection element.

[0033] The connection of one or more of the devices to the or one of the connection elements can preferably be achieved by connecting the one or more devices to one or more connections of the connection element. For this purpose, the respective connection can be designed, for example, as a port or a terminal. The connection does not necessarily have to be a connection between only two components. A T-piece, for example, makes it possible to connect not just one but two devices to one connection, or even to connect one device to two connections.

[0034] Furthermore, the method according to the invention can provide for assembly and / or connection documentation in which the at least partial structure is documented on the basis of the provided installation specifications. The at least partial structure can comprise a mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or fluid and / or pneumatic and / or electrical structure. It is also conceivable for the connection of the devices to be documented on the basis of the provided installation specifications in the assembly and / or connection documentation. The assembly and / or connection documentation can therefore serve to document the assembly and / or connections carried out by a user on the basis of the installation specifications.A user confirmation of individual installation actions, especially installation steps, may be required. It may also be possible for the installation actions to be confirmed at least partially automatically.

[0035] It is possible that, with the method according to the invention and in particular with the assembly and / or connection documentation, deviations between the documented at least partial structure, in particular the documented connection(s), i.e., the documentation, and the specified at least partial structure or the specified connection(s) according to the installation specification are determined and / or detected. The deviations can be displayed to the user and / or the user can correct and / or confirm the deviations.

[0036] It is also conceivable that the documentation does not correspond to the actual, i.e. real, at least partial structure of at least part of the system, in particular not to the actual connection(s) in the system. This can be possible, for example, due to incorrect confirmation. It is therefore possible that an actual specification is provided which specifies an actual, at least partial structure of at least part of the system and / or an actual connection of the devices with the connection element(s) in the system. The actual specification can, for example, be determined through electronic evaluation of the connection element(s), e.g. through communication with the respective connection element. For this purpose, the respective connection element can, for example, report back which devices are connected there and / or which connections are occupied. The actual specification can also, for example,determined by evaluating device output and / or user input.

[0037] It is also possible for a comparison result to be determined based on an automated evaluation of the provided assembly and / or connection documentation and on the basis of the actual specification. In this case, for example, a difference between the actual specification and the assembly and / or connection documentation can be determined. This difference is preferably a difference between the actual at least partial structure and the documented at least partial structure, in each case at least with regard to the part of the system, and / or between the actual connection and the documented connection. The determined difference can then be provided, preferably output, in the comparison result. This has the advantage that a deviation between the documentation and the actual state of the system, i.e. the actual at least partial structure or the actual connection, can be detected and, if necessary, output to the user.This makes work on the system easier and more reliable.

[0038] The connection elements can each be designed as a module and / or master element, which preferably serve to distribute energy and / or data streams. As a master element, the connection elements can also be designed for data communication with secondary devices. Preferably, at least some of the connection elements and / or devices can each have electronics that have software-based functions, preferably automation functions. The functions are, for example, communication and / or control functions for the system. To parameterize the functions for a specific system, a device device can be provided if necessary.

[0039] For example, computer-assisted device setup is conceivable in the system. The device setup can, for example, include parameterization of the devices and / or storage of specifications that enable the parameterization of the devices (similar to a driver installation). It is conceivable that for this purpose, at least one device-specific setup specification is provided for the connected devices. Subsequently, a transmission of the at least one device-specific setup specification to at least one of the connection elements, preferably master elements, and / or to at least one of the devices connected thereto can be provided. In this case, the at least one device-specific setup specification can be provided and / or transmitted based on an automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation.The provided connection documentation can also document the connection of the devices to the connection elements, preferably master elements, based on the provided installation specifications.

[0040] The device-specific device specification includes, for example, a device name for the respective device in order to be able to identify the device uniquely or one-to-one. Furthermore, the device-specific device specification can include a communication address, preferably a network address, preferably an IP address. The device-specific device specification can also include a device description, preferably an IODD, which preferably describes descriptive data such as device parameters and / or properties of the respective device in order to enable parameterization of the device based on the device description. The descriptive data also includes, for example:Specifications on the device ID and / or the IO-Link version implemented and / or an indication of a communication cycle time and / or the operating modes and / or the data structure for process data and / or the unique identification of the device and / or the type of parameterization and / or the data width and / or the processing time.

[0041] Furthermore, it is conceivable that a master element and / or device device is provided in which device-specific names are configured for the at least one respective master element and / or for the devices. This can enable the device-specific names to be used to provide the automation functions and in particular for communication between the at least one control device and the devices. The device-specific names are, for example, device-specific tags according to an IO-Link specification. The use of device-specific names can have the advantage that, unlike I / O addresses, the names can semantically identify the device and / or its function(s) and therefore contribute to easier programming and / or maintenance. For example, the device-specific names can be used directly for control programming.Furthermore, when one of the devices is connected to any port of a connection element, especially a master element, the device-specific name of the connected device can be dynamically assigned to the port. This eliminates the need for the laborious task of assigning the port's I / O address during the control programming for controlling the device.

[0042] Furthermore, further options for parameterizing the devices can be provided, particularly in an engineering system (ES). A first option, for example, is for the ES to configure the controller, preferably a control device. The connection elements, preferably I / O modules, with their connections, preferably ports, preferably IO-Link ports, can also be defined here. A software tool ("device tool") can be called from the ES and then receives a temporary parameter file from the ES to parameterize the connected device. The software tool can specifically be designed as an IO-Link device tool. A basic functional test of the sensor or actuator is also possible using the tool. Finally, the IO-Link device tool can enable the modification of manipulated variables and characteristic variables in the sensor or actuator without changing the complex PLC control of the system.

[0043] Another possibility, for example, is that information from the device description, in particular IODD, or from data sheets, as well as the associated parameters for the devices, are defined in the controller. This may require the separate programming of IODD information in data blocks of the controller. Another possibility, for example, is that a user's device description, such as IODD, is integrated into a GSDML file for the system and / or one of the system components and / or one of the connection elements, and in particular an IO-Link master. The GSDML file can be stored in the controller and used by the controller to parameterize the devices. In this case, it can be provided that the structure, i.e. the type and topology of at least part of the system / components / devices / connection elements, is stored in the GSDML, and the parameterization settings in the controller, e.g.a PLC project file. Another possibility is preferably that at least one of the connection elements, preferably in the form of Ethernet modules and / or IO-Link master modules, has an internal web server, and particularly preferably at least one or more device descriptions, in particular IODD(s), can be imported directly into the connection element via this web server.

[0044] It is possible for the connecting elements to "know their neighbors." The connecting elements, preferably fieldbus modules, can discover their neighboring connecting elements using a discovery function such as the LLDP (Link Layer Discovery Protocol). LLDP enables the connecting elements to discover their neighboring connecting elements in the network by exchanging information about their identity, capabilities, and / or connection information. This discovery function can be implemented at the link layer of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model and allows network devices to be identified without the need for manual configuration. Connecting elements that support this discovery function, and preferably LLDP, can periodically send (LLDP) packets containing information about their identity and connection information.Other connection elements that receive these packets can read the information and identify their neighbors. This can have the advantage of at least partially revealing and / or verifying the network topology.

[0045] The system may comprise several components, preferably in the form of devices and / or in the form of at least one connection element for the devices. Further components may be connecting means, such as cables and / or connectors, for establishing the connection between the devices and the at least one connection element.

[0046] The devices can be designed as at least one of the following devices:

[0047] A sensor, an actuator, a light barrier, a binary switch, a binary sensor, a binary actuator, an IO-Link device sensor, an IO-Link device actuator.

[0048] The device-specific device specification, in particular the device description, preferably in the form of an IODD, and / or the description data of the device description, can be designed to contain specific information about a device. This information is, for example, details regarding the functions, properties, configurations or interfaces of the device. The device description is, for example, provided in the form of one or more files. The description data of the device description can be formulated in a description language such as XML (Extensible Markup Language), GSDML (Generic Station Description Markup Language) or DDL (Device Description Language). Examples of device descriptions are IODD (IO Device Description), FDI (Field Device Integration), ESI (EtherCAT Slave Information) and EDD (Electronic Device Description). In addition, an integration of the device description orthe description data into a GSDML file.

[0049] For parameterization, a software tool can also be used, which can transfer the parameters to the device based on the device-specific description data.

[0050] Another option is to use a GSDML file. GSDML stands for "Generic Station Description Markup Language" and is a standardized file format for describing at least one component of the system. The device descriptions or descriptive data can be inserted into the GSDML and then made available to a central controller. This enables automatic parameterization of the devices connected to the connection elements.

[0051] Furthermore, the devices can be designed as analog and / or digital devices. Multiple devices can be connected to a connection element. Each of the connection elements can accordingly be designed as a distributor for the connected devices. The devices can be connected to the connection element directly via cables and / or connectors or, if necessary, indirectly. The indirect connection is made, for example, via an analog converter, in particular an IO-Link, and / or a hub, in particular a 10-Link. The devices can be connected to the (IO-Link) hub in the form of binary standard sensors, for example. Digital (standard) inputs / outputs (I / O) can be provided on the hub for this purpose.

[0052] The connection element, in particular the master element, can be designed as a master module, preferably an IO-Link master and / or master for a digital and preferably point-to-point communication system. At the same time, the connection element can be designed as a fieldbus module and thus have a fieldbus connection. This enables networking with other connection elements and / or with at least one or exactly one control device via the fieldbus. The control device is, for example, a central controller such as a PLC ("Programmable Logic Controller"). Furthermore, the control device can also be designed as a decentralized controller, which, if necessary, performs the control task directly in the field with other decentralized controllers. The fieldbus module can be designed to control and / or evaluate the devices connected to the connection element based on the fieldbus communication.

[0053] Reading and writing to the device, especially IO-Link devices, is possible via CoE (CAN application protocol over EtherCAT) and / or AoE (Automation Device Protocol over EtherCAT), for example. Configuring at least some of the devices as IO-Link devices allows information such as process data, diagnostics, and parameterization data to be transmitted digitally through the devices. The functions of a web server, an IO-Link device tool, and HOT ("Industrial Internet of Things") can be activated via EoE (Ethernet over EtherCAT) communication, if necessary. Additionally, other digital or analog devices can also be integrated into the system.

[0054] The system is preferably provided in the form of an electrical and / or industrial system and / or an electrical machine and / or an industrial automation system and / or a production and / or conveyor and / or manufacturing system and / or an automotive production system and / or a logistics system. The system can also be designed as a hydraulic or pneumatic or fluid or mechanical system. In the system, liquids or gases can be transported through hoses and / or pipes or valves, a coolant can be supplied, or mechanical forces can be exerted on an object in order to provide a desired function, in an automatically controlled manner. Examples of such systems are a hydraulic press, a pneumatic conveyor system, a system with a fluid cooling mechanism, a machining system, or a mechanical manufacturing machine.The structure of the system, especially fluid structure, may include lines such as hoses and / or pipelines to meet technical and production-related requirements and / or to transport consumables.

[0055] Installation documentation, in particular an installation specification, preferably comprising a circuit diagram or a mechanical plan, preferably in digital form, can specify how the electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, fluid, or mechanical system is constructed and how the various components are interconnected to provide desired functions such as automation functions. In other words, the installation specification can specify and, in particular, predefine a topology of the system. A distinction can be made between a centralized and decentralized topology. In a centralized topology, the devices can predominantly be connected directly to a central control cabinet and, in particular, to a central control device.In a decentralized topology, however, several distributors, also called connection elements, are used, to each of which only a limited number of devices can be connected. The connections between the devices then usually go directly to the spatially closest distributor and from there can either be forwarded directly to the control device or first interpreted or converted. The difference between the two topologies is that in a centralized topology, most connections run directly to the control cabinet, whereas in a decentralized topology, several distributors are used to establish the connections to the devices in a decentralized manner. Accordingly, system components that are usually provided in the control cabinet should be adapted for the field. Components such as power supply units for the energy supply can therefore be protected against water, dust and / or moisture, i.e.in particular IP67-capable.

[0056] The system can have one or more decentralized control devices. These can each provide and / or control only a portion of the overall functionality, preferably the automation functions, of the system. For this purpose, the decentralized control devices can each be designed as a component that can be used in the field. This preferably means that the control devices are protected against water, dust, and / or moisture, i.e., in particular, they are IP67-compliant. Furthermore, the respective decentralized control device can be designed as a functional module and can be modularly connected to other functional modules, such as a power supply unit for the energy supply and / or at least one of the connection elements, in particular modules, and / or a master module, such as a 10-link master and / or a network switch and / or a motor or servo controller.This modular assembly can also be designed to be water, dust, and / or moisture-proof, i.e., particularly IP67-compliant, through an appropriate sealing arrangement. The respective decentralized control device can also comprise an industrial PC and / or perform its control tasks by communicating with the devices via the connection elements or a fieldbus.

[0057] The system may comprise a production line and / or conveyor technology and / or storage and order-picking systems and / or automated sorting systems and / or software for controlling and monitoring processes. Furthermore, the system may comprise multiple components. The components may include devices, in particular operating equipment such as actuators and / or sensors, and / or control devices and / or drives or switchgear and / or valve terminals and / or the like. Furthermore, the components may also include connection elements that can serve as distributors for one or more of the devices. In addition, connecting means such as cables or connectors or the like may be used to connect the components of the system.

[0058] Cables and / or connectors according to standards such as M12, M8, or M5, as well as three-wire cables, can be used as connecting elements. This can have the advantage of ensuring quick and easy installation of the sensors and actuators. The connecting elements can be connected using a bayonet or screw connection, for example. The connector contacts can be rectangular or round and made of different materials such as brass or stainless steel. The connectors can also have a protection rating such as IP67 to ensure reliable operation in harsh environments.

[0059] Within the scope of the invention, a connection element can refer to a distributor which is used for the field connection and / or decentralized interconnection of devices such as actuators, sensors and machines in the system. The connection element can be designed as a fieldbus module which can be connected via a fieldbus to a central control device such as a PLC (programmable logic controller) and / or to at least one decentralized control device. Fieldbus modules thus enable communication between the control device and the devices using a fieldbus protocol such as PROFIBUS, PROFINET, CANopen or EtherCAT. Furthermore, several devices can be connected to the connection element, if necessary also via IO-Link and in particular in order to control and / or read out the devices based on / by means of a received fieldbus signal. In this way, the automation functions of the devices can be provided in a decentralized manner.

[0060] Another possible variant of a connection element can, if necessary, also directly transmit an electrical control signal and / or sensor signal between the control device and the device. Furthermore, the connection element can be designed as an I / O connection element, in which the connected devices are not connected to the control device, or not only via a fieldbus, but (also) via digital or analog inputs and outputs via the connection element. The connection element thus serves as an interface between the control device and devices such as sensors, actuators and machines and can convert and process signals from the control device into signals usable by the devices and / or vice versa. The inputs and outputs enable the transmission of process data to provide the functionality of the system.Optionally, it can be provided that the respective connection element has a plurality of lighting means, preferably LEDs, which are each assigned to a connection, preferably port, or several connections of the connection element and indicate an operating state of the respective connection / port / ports.

[0061] It can be provided that at least one connection element is connected to at least one of the devices via a communication system for digital, in particular point-to-point, communication. A concrete example of such a communication system is IO-Link. IO-Link refers, in particular, to a communication system for connecting intelligent sensors and actuators to an automation system, which is standardized in the IEC 61131-9 standard under the designation Single-drop digital communication interface for small sensors and actuators (SDCI). In other words, at least one of the connection elements can therefore be designed as a connection element for this communication system, in particular as an IO-Link module.This means that the connection element can be designed to establish communication between the connection element and the devices connected to it via the communication system and preferably via the IO-Link standard.

[0062] IO-Link enables digital communication with devices and offers a high degree of flexibility when connecting devices from different manufacturers. The connection element can be designed as an IO-Link master (master element) or an IO-Link device, thus enabling easy integration of IO-Link devices into the decentralized system's interconnection. The use of IO-Link also enables extensive diagnostic and parameterization options to ensure efficient and reliable system control. Furthermore, the connection element can have a fieldbus interface (and thus also be designed as a fieldbus module), for example, to enable control commands and / or communication via a fieldbus with a control device and / or other connection elements.

[0063] The communication system comprises, for example, a master, preferably a master element, in particular an IO-Link master and / or a master for a digital and preferably point-to-point communication system, and one or more devices, i.e. sensors or actuators, that are suitable for communication with the master. These can specifically be IO-Link devices. The master provides in particular the interface to the higher-level controller, i.e. a decentralized or centralized control device such as a PLC, and controls communication with the connected devices. The master can have one or more ports, in particular IO-Link ports, to which only one device can be connected at a time. This can also be a hub that enables the connection of conventional switching sensors and actuators.

[0064] The device, in particular an IO-Link device, can enable bidirectional communication with the connection element and / or be an (intelligent) sensor, actuator, hub, or even a mechatronic component such as a gripper or power supply. The device can provide identification data, such as a type designation and serial number, or parameter data (e.g., sensitivities, switching delays, or characteristic curves), which can be read or written via the communication system and, in particular, the IO-Link protocol. Changing the parameters can advantageously be achieved by parameterization based on a device description. Furthermore, the devices can be capable of providing detailed diagnostic information. The parameters of devices such as sensors and actuators can be device- and technology-specific.Therefore, parameter information can be provided for the respective devices, preferably in the form of a device description such as IODD (IO Device Description) with the description language XML.

[0065] One possible extension for the IO-Link communication system is IO-Link Safety. This extension provides an additional safety communication layer on top of the existing master and device layers, transforming them into "FS Master" and "FS Device."

[0066] Another possible extension for the IO-Link communication system is IO-Link Wireless, which represents a physical extension of the system based on IEEE 802.15.1. An IO-Link Wireless Master behaves like a master in the higher-level system, while the IO-Link Wireless devices are connected via virtual ports over a wireless link.

[0067] The communication system can provide point-to-point communication between the master / master element and the devices. The communication system thus enables a direct connection between the master / master element and the devices, without the need for mediation by other systems. This ensures fast and reliable communication, especially fieldbus-independent.

[0068] For example, it can be provided that the initiation of the transmission of the at least one device-specific device specification is carried out by a computer. The computer can be a central or decentralized control device for controlling the devices to provide the automation functions of the system. Furthermore, the computer can be connected to a communication system of the master elements, preferably a fieldbus, for transmitting the at least one device-specific device specification. A central control device such as a PLC or a decentralized control device, on the other hand, can be provided to centrally control and monitor the system. For this purpose, the control device can control various devices such as sensors and actuators and thus automate the production process.

[0069] Furthermore, it is possible that only after the at least one device-specific setup specification has been transferred and the device setup has been completed, a central or at least one decentralized control device for the system is installed, preferably connected to the communications system to control the configured devices to provide the automation functions. This can have the advantage that the devices can initially be configured independently of the control device before the entire system has to be completed. This can increase the efficiency of the system setup, as the installation can be carried out step by step.

[0070] According to a further advantage, it can be provided that the at least one device-specific device specification comprises at least one of the following specifications for the connected devices: a device name for the respective device in order to be able to identify the device uniquely or one-to-one, a device-specific name, preferably a device-specific tag according to an IO-Link specification, a communication address, preferably a network address, preferably an IP address, a device description, preferably an IODD, which preferably describes device parameters and / or properties of the respective device in order to enable parameterization of the device on the basis of the device description.

[0071] These specifications can also be referred to as description data. The description data further includes, for example, specifications for the device ID and / or the 10-link version being implemented and / or an indication of a communication cycle time and / or the operating modes and / or the data structure for process data and / or the unique identification of the device and / or the type of parameterization and / or the data width and / or the processing time. A further advantage can be achieved within the scope of the invention if, in the at least partial structure specified by the provided installation specification, several of the devices are each connected to a common master element in order to provide a decentralized topology of the system.For this purpose, the respective common master element can be provided for connecting the connected devices to a control device via a network and / or for distributing data and / or signal transmission to the connected devices. The at least one device-specific device specification can be transmitted to the common master element via the network, preferably using the Simple Network Management Protocol, to enable parameterization of the connected devices for control by the control device and / or for data and / or signal transmission.

[0072] Optionally, it may be provided that the provision of the at least one device-specific setup specification includes:

[0073] Determining a device description, in particular an IODD, for the connected devices, in which device parameters and / or properties and / or parameter ranges are specified,

[0074] Define parameter settings to parameterize the connected devices to provide one of the automation functions.

[0075] The transmission of the at least one device-specific setup specification can be initiated to parameterize the at least one connected device based on the defined parameter settings and the determined device description. This can have the advantage that the configuration of the industrial automation system can be carried out quickly and efficiently, since the device-specific setup specifications are transmitted automatically.

[0076] Advantageously, within the scope of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one device-specific device specification is looped through the at least one of the master elements during transmission in order to be transmitted to the at least one of the connected devices for parameterizing the device. This can have the advantage that the devices can be parameterized quickly and easily without requiring additional steps.

[0077] It's also possible for device-specific setup specifications to be automatically updated when changes are made to the devices. This ensures that the devices are always correctly configured and perform optimally.

[0078] Another option is to store the transferred device-specific setup specification in the master element in a non-volatile manner. This can be done, for example, in a data memory of the master element. If the controller also receives parameterization information, e.g., via a GSDML file, the device description can also be stored in the module as a backup.

[0079] According to a further possibility, it can be provided that those of the device-specific setup specifications are transmitted to the respective master element in the form of device descriptions that are intended for the at least one device connected to the master element, in particular that correctly describe this device. The device description intended for the device can be determined through automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation. This can have the advantage of enabling automatic configuration of the industrial automation system, since the respective device descriptions are automatically transmitted to the master element. This eliminates the need for manual comparison of the device descriptions, which saves time and avoids errors that can occur during manual configuration. This also increases the reliability of the industrial automation system.

[0080] A further advantage within the scope of the invention can be achieved if an automated spatial evaluation of at least one or at least two, preferably identical, devices is carried out, in particular based on a mechanical representation of at least one part of the system. On the basis of the spatial evaluation, a decision can be made as to which of the master elements or devices the at least one device-specific facility specification is transmitted to, and preferably on the basis of which parameter settings and / or device descriptions the at least one device is parameterized. In other words, the spatial evaluation makes it possible to determine a function of the devices (depending on their position) on the basis of the spatial information and, in particular, the mechanical representation. Knowledge of the determined function can be used to decide which parameterization of the devices is intended.The functions and / or installation specifications intended for the different devices, preferably for different installation positions of the devices, can be specified, for example, in an installation specification.

[0081] It is also advantageous if the at least one device-specific facility specification is stored in a system description and / or a master element description, preferably a GSDML. This allows at least one of the master elements to be specified with regard to the devices connected to it. This can have the advantage that the automation system can be operated more efficiently because the devices are specifically coordinated with one another. It is also possible that storing the facility specification in a GSDML enables automatic configuration of the devices, which saves time and costs. Furthermore, the system description and / or master element description can help ensure quick and targeted access to the affected devices during maintenance or repair work, thus reducing system downtime.

[0082] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the following steps are provided:

[0083] Determining a comparison result based on an automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation,

[0084] Providing the calibration result for installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of the system.

[0085] The determination of the comparison result can include the following step, which is carried out automatically, preferably during and / or after an automated documentation of installation steps: Checking that the documented connection of the devices to the master elements corresponds to an actual connection of the devices to the master elements, whereby the correspondence is also checked with regard to specific connections, preferably ports and / or terminals, of the master elements to which the devices are to be connected.

[0086] The examination may include at least one of the following steps:

[0087] Determining the actual connection of the devices to the master elements at least partially by an automated query of the master elements, preferably via a communication interface and / or a fieldbus,

[0088] Evaluation of an installation location of at least one of the connected devices based on a mechanical model of the system.

[0089] This can have the advantage that possible connection errors can be detected and corrected at an early stage to ensure smooth functionality of the industrial automation system.

[0090] It is also conceivable that the determination of the comparison result includes: resolving ambiguities in an assignment of the documented connection of the devices with the master elements according to the provided connection documentation to the specified connection of the devices with the master elements according to the installation specification.

[0091] Ambiguities can arise from multiple identical devices being connected to one or more master elements. To resolve ambiguities, spatial information about the actual installation location of the identical devices can be evaluated, preferably by comparing them with a mechanical model of the system. For example, ambiguity can arise if multiple identical devices, such as light barriers, have different functions, e.g., are intended to monitor different areas. If these devices are connected to a master element, even if the master element evaluates the device identifiers, it cannot determine which function the devices are intended for and which parameterization they must be given. However, the function can be linked to the installation location, so that the function can be determined by evaluating the spatial information and thus the ambiguity can be resolved.

[0092] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it may be advantageous for the provided connection documentation to result from automatic documentation of installation steps. The automatic documentation may include the following computer-implemented steps:

[0093] Initiating outputs to a user, by which the user is guided step by step to carry out installation steps, wherein the installation steps comprise at least the following: mounting the master elements in the system, mounting the devices in the system, connecting the devices to the master elements, preferably to a specific connection of the master elements, preferably via electrical cables and / or connectors,

[0094] Collecting manual confirmations from the user that the respective installation steps have been carried out correctly,

[0095] Document the installation steps and in particular the respective connection based on the recorded confirmations.

[0096] The outputs and / or confirmations and / or documentation can be provided at least partially by specifying at least one specific connection, preferably a port, of at least one of the master elements to which at least one of the devices has been connected. This enables installation support at the I / O level. Furthermore, it is possible that at least in the connection documentation provided, the connection of the devices to the master elements is documented on the basis of the provided installation specification, that in the automatic documentation for the step-by-step instructions, the installation specification is automatically evaluated and / or the installation steps and / or the respective connection are automatically documented in relation to the installation specification.

[0097] The invention also relates to a data processing device comprising means for carrying out the steps of the method according to the invention. Thus, the device according to the invention offers the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to a method according to the invention.

[0098] The invention also relates to a computer program, in particular a computer program product, comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to execute the method according to the invention. Thus, the computer program according to the invention provides the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to a method according to the invention.

[0099] A data processing device, for example the device according to the invention, which executes the computer program can be provided as the computer. The computer can have at least one processor for executing the computer program. A non-volatile data memory can also be provided, in which the computer program is stored and from which the computer program can be read by the processor for execution.

[0100] It is also conceivable for the computer to comprise at least one integrated circuit such as a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application-specific standard product (ASSP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like. The computer may further comprise at least one interface for data exchange, e.g., an Ethernet interface, an interface for a LAN (local area network), a WLAN (wireless local area network), a system-on-a-chip (SoC), or another wireless interface such as Bluetooth or near-field communication (NFC). Furthermore, the computer may be configured as one or more control units, i.e., as a system of control units. The computer may, for example, also be provided in a cloud and / or as a server in order to provide data processing for a local application via the interface.It is also possible for the computer to be embodied as a mobile device, such as a smartphone. The invention can also provide a computer-readable storage medium comprising the computer program according to the invention. The storage medium is embodied, for example, as a data storage device such as a hard disk and / or a non-volatile memory and / or a memory card. The storage medium can, for example, be integrated into the computer.

[0101] Furthermore, the method according to the invention can also be implemented as a computer-implemented method.

[0102] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which describes embodiments of the invention in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description may be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. They show:

[0103] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a decentralized topology.

[0104] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a connecting element.

[0105] Fig. 3 shows an exemplary detailed representation of area A from Fig. 2.

[0106] Fig. 4 Parts of an installation specification.

[0107] Fig. 5 a computer, a graphical user interface and a reader.

[0108] Fig. 6 is a schematic visualization of a method according to embodiments of the invention.

[0109] Fig. 1 shows an exemplary decentralized topology of an industrial plant 1. A control device 2 is shown, which can be designed as a central (PLC) or as one of several decentralized control devices 2. Furthermore, several connection elements 10, preferably modules 10, are shown, which are connected to the

[0110] Control device 2 are connected via a communication system such as a fieldbus (dashed line).

[0111] Furthermore, to provide automation functions, a plurality of devices 50 are provided, which are connected to the connection elements 10 in the field and / or decentrally. Figs. 2 and 3 show the respective connection elements 10 with further exemplary details. One or more of the devices 50 can be connected to each of the connection elements 10. For this purpose, the devices 50 are connected, in particular via connecting means 90 such as cables and / or connectors, to corresponding connections 30, in particular ports 30, of the connection elements 10. In this way, the connection elements 10 serve to connect the respective connected devices 50 to the control device 2 and / or to distribute data and / or signal transmission to the respective connected devices 50.

[0112] The devices 50 can be, for example, actuators 81 or sensors 82. The connection between the connection elements 10 and at least some of the devices 50 can be a bidirectional point-to-point connection, preferably via a communication system for digital communication such as IO-Link. The connection between the connection elements 10 and at least some of the devices 50 can also be an analog and / or digital connection. The connection elements 10 thus enable different connection types to be used to connect the devices 50. It is possible for the connection elements 10 to also have different connections 30, in particular ports 30, adapted to the different connection types. The connections 30 can be arranged on a housing 40 of the connection element 10.

[0113] Fig. 4 shows an example excerpt from a digital circuit diagram, which can be part of the provided installation specification. The installation specification can be intended to specify an electrical wiring for system 1, in which devices 50 and connection elements 10 are electrically connected to one another to provide automation functions in the field and / or decentrally.

[0114] It is conceivable that, prior to installation of system 1, a topology of system 1 is known via the installation specifications, but not which specific connection element is connected to which specific device via which connecting means 90. This means that, prior to installation, the required components 80 may be known in terms of type due to the installation specifications, but the unique assignment to specific components 80 has not yet taken place. For example, Fig. 1 shows that one or more of the devices 50 can be connected to a respective connection element 10. During installation, it is then possible for the connection element 10 to be selected from one of several, and possibly also the devices 50 from one or more generic components 80.

[0115] In order to simplify installation and documentation - as well as, based on the documentation, device setup and / or configuration and / or programming of a controller - the installation can be supported by a computer as follows. In addition to instructions for installation steps, the connection documentation can also be created simultaneously through automatic documentation of the installation steps. The example sequence is as follows: a. First, outputs are initiated to a user, through which the user is guided step by step to carry out installation steps (see the graphical user interface in Fig. 5). The installation steps, also referred to as installation actions, can include selecting, attaching and connecting devices 50 and / or connection elements 10 and / or connecting means 90. For example,the user is prompted to select a component 80, such as one of the connection elements 10 or a connecting means 90. To make the selection, the user scans an identifier such as a machine-readable code on the component 80 using a reader 200 such as a handheld scanner. The reader 200 can have an interface 201, e.g., a radio interface, to transmit an identification of the component 80 to a corresponding interface 201 of the computer 5 based on the scanned identifier. b. The computer 5 can use the transmitted identification to identify one or more possible installation locations 320 or (if a connecting means 90 was selected) connections 30 / ports 30 of the connection elements 10 in the system 1. For this purpose, a search can be carried out in the installation specifications for suitable locations.For this purpose, the installation specification can include, in digital form, both an electrical circuit diagram and a linked mechanical and / or three-dimensional representation of the system 1. In a visualization of the spatial, in particular mechanical and / or three-dimensional, representation 310 of the system 1, the possible installation locations 320 can then be displayed on a user interface 300. If the connecting means 90 has been selected, a light source 20 assigned to the corresponding connection 30 / port 30 can also light up. c. The user can, if necessary, select one of the installation locations 320 and install or connect the component 80 at the desired installation location 320 or at the connection 30 / port 30. d. The user can then confirm this installation step. This enables the computer 5 to document the installation step and to store the information about the selected installation location 320 or connection 30 / port 30.For this purpose, information about the connection 30 / port 30, e.g., an address of the connection 30 / port 30, and / or the identification of the component 80 and / or the designation of the device 50 and / or the installation location and / or the like can be stored in the connection documentation. The connection documentation thus serves, in particular, to document the connection of the devices 50 to the connection elements 10 based on the provided installation specifications. Furthermore, the connection documentation can be automatically evaluated to determine a comparison result on this basis and to make it available for installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization and / or during operation of System 1.

[0116] The comparison result can be used to indicate, in particular, whether the specified installation matches the actual installation. This is useful, for example, if the aforementioned confirmation by the user is incorrect and / or if the user intentionally deviates from the installation specifications. To detect this deviation through automated evaluation, a computer-assisted check can be performed to determine whether the documented connection of the devices 50 to the connection elements 10 matches the actual connection of the devices 50 to the connection elements 10. The evaluation can also include an evaluation of the installation specifications with regard to the interconnection of the components 80.

[0117] The match can also be checked with regard to the specific connection 30, preferably ports 30, of the connection elements 10 to which the devices 50 are to be connected (see Figs. 2 and 3). This is possible, for example, by querying the connection elements 10 via the communication system or another interface to determine which of the connections 30 / ports 30 are occupied. In some cases, such as when using IO-Link devices 50, this could also determine further details about the connected device 50 (such as a label or the like). Another possibility is to prompt the user to manually activate the device 50. For example, in the case of a sensor such as a light barrier, a hand movement can be used to trigger detection by the sensor. In the case of an actuator, for example, a current characteristic at the connection element 10 can be evaluated.Activation of device 50 can result in an output from device 50 that can be detected at connection 30 or port 30 of connector 10 to which device 50 is connected. By detecting this defined output from device 50, it is thus possible to determine the actual connection.

[0118] Furthermore, an automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation may make it possible for at least one or more device-specific setup specifications to be provided for the connected devices 50 and / or transmitted to at least one of the connection elements 10 and / or to at least one of the devices 50 connected thereto. In this case, those of the at least one or more device-specific setup specifications that are intended for the at least one device 50 connected to the connection element 10, in particular that correctly describe it, can be transmitted to the respective connection element 10 in the form of device descriptions. The automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation can thereby determine the device description intended for the device 50. For this purpose, the automated evaluation evaluates, for example, the information stored in the connection documentation, such as a device designation.The transfer of the device specifications enables, in particular, automated parameterisation of the devices 50.

[0119] Fig. 6 illustrates a method 100 for computer-aided device setup for an installation of an industrial plant 1. According to a first method step 101, an installation specification can be provided to specify an at least partial structure of at least part of the plant 1, in which devices 50 and master elements 10, in particular modules 10, are connected to one another in the field to provide automation functions electrically and / or for signal and / or data exchange. According to a second method step 102, connection documentation can be provided in which the connection of the devices 50 to the master elements 10 is documented on the basis of the provided installation specification. According to a third method step 103, at least one device-specific setup specification for the connected devices 50 can be provided.In a fourth method step 104, a transmission of the at least one device-specific setup specification to at least one of the master elements 10 and / or to at least one of the devices 50 connected thereto can be initiated. The provision 103 and / or initiation 104 of the transmission of the at least one device-specific setup specification can be based on an automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation. The automated evaluation is performed, for example, by comparing the documented connections of the devices 50 with a template and / or by searching for the appropriate device-specific setup specification for each of the devices 50. The search can be possible, for example, by querying a database.

[0120] The above explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention exclusively by way of examples. Of course, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, provided they are technically feasible, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0121] Attachment

[0122] Control device

[0123] device

[0124] computer program

[0125] connecting element

[0126] Light bulbs

[0127] connection, port

[0128] Housing

[0129] Device, sensor, actuator

[0130] Component first component, actuator second component, sensor

[0131] Connectors, cables

[0132] Procedure first procedure step second procedure step third procedure step fourth procedure step

[0133] reader

[0134] Radio interface

[0135] User interface spatial representation

[0136] Installation locations

Claims

Claims 1. A method (100) for computer-aided device setup for an installation of an industrial plant (1), in particular an electrical machine and / or an industrial automation plant, comprising the following steps: Providing (101) an installation specification, in particular with a digital circuit diagram and / or mechanical plan, in order to specify an at least partial structure of at least part of the system (1), in which devices (50) and master elements (10), in particular modules (10), are connected to one another in the field to provide automation functions electrically and / or for signal and / or data exchange, wherein optionally the master elements (10) are designed as fieldbus modules and have at least one connection for digital and / or point-to-point communication with at least one of the connected devices (50), Providing (102) a connection documentation in which the connection of the devices (50) to the master elements (10) is documented on the basis of the provided installation specifications, Providing (103) at least one device-specific setup specification for the connected devices (50), Initiating (104) a transmission of the at least one device-specific device specification to at least one of the master elements (10) and / or to at least one of the devices (50) connected thereto, wherein the provision (103) and / or initiation (104) of the transmission of the at least one device-specific device specification is carried out on the basis of an automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation.

2. Method (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the initiation (104) of the transmission of the at least one device-specific device specification is carried out by a computer which is different from a central control device (2) for controlling the devices (50) for providing the automation functions of the system (1), and which for this purpose is connected to a communication system of the master elements (10), preferably a field bus, and / or that only after the transmission (104) of the at least one device-specific device specification and the resulting device setup, a central or decentralized control device (2) for the system (1) is installed, preferably connected to the communication system, in order to control the configured devices (50) for providing the automation functions.

3. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one device-specific device specification comprises at least one of the following specifications for the connected devices (50): a device name for the respective device (50) in order to be able to identify the device uniquely or one-to-one, a device-specific name, preferably a device-specific tag according to an IO-Link specification, a communication address, preferably a network address, preferably an IP address, a device description, preferably an IODD, which preferably describes device parameters and / or properties of the respective device (50) in order to enable parameterization of the device (50) on the basis of the device description. 4.Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the at least partial structure predetermined by the provided installation specification, a plurality of the devices (50) are each connected to a common master element (10) in order to provide a decentralized topology of the system (1), wherein for this purpose the respective common master element (10) is provided for connecting the devices (50) connected thereto to a control device (2) via a network and / or for distributing a data and / or signal transmission to the devices (50) connected thereto, wherein the at least one device-specific device specification is transmitted via the network to the common master element (10), preferably by means of the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), in order to enable parameterization of the devices (50) connected thereto for control by the control device (2) and / or for data and / or signal transmission.

5. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the provision (103) of the at least one device-specific device specification comprises: Determining a device description, in particular an IODD, for the connected devices (50), in which device parameters and / or properties and / or parameter ranges are specified, Establishing parameter settings in order to parameterise the connected devices (50) in each case for providing one of the automation functions, wherein the initiation (104) of the transmission of the at least one device-specific device specification is carried out in order to carry out the parameterisation of the at least one connected device (50) on the basis of the established parameter settings and the determined device description.

6. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one device-specific device specification is looped through the at least one of the master elements (10) during transmission in order to be transmitted to the at least one of the devices (50) connected thereto for parameterizing the device (50).

7. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transmitted device-specific device specification is stored in a non-volatile manner in the master element (10).

8. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that those of the device-specific device specifications are transmitted to the respective master element (10) in the form of device descriptions which are intended for the at least one device (50) connected to the master element (10), in particular which correctly describe this, wherein the device description intended for the device (50) is determined by the automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation.

9. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an automated spatial evaluation of at least one or at least two, preferably identical, devices (50) is carried out, in particular on the basis of a mechanical representation of at least part of the system (1), wherein on the basis of the spatial evaluation it is decided to which of the master elements (10) or devices (50) the at least one device-specific device specification is transmitted, preferably on the basis of which parameter settings and / or device descriptions the at least one device (50) is parameterized.

10. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one device-specific device specification is stored in a system description and / or a master element description, preferably a GSDML, in order to thereby specify the at least one of the master elements (10) with regard to the devices (50) connected thereto.

11. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the following steps are provided: Determining a comparison result based on an automated evaluation of the provided connection documentation, Providing the comparison result for the installation and / or commissioning and / or maintenance and / or modernization of the system (1), wherein the determination of the comparison result comprises the following step, which is carried out automatically, preferably during and / or after an automated documentation of installation steps: Checking that the documented connection of the devices (50) to the master elements (10) corresponds to an actual connection of the devices (50) to the master elements (10), wherein the correspondence is also checked with regard to specific connections (30), preferably ports and / or terminals, of the master elements (10) to which the devices (50) are to be connected, wherein the check comprises at least one of the following steps: Determining the actual connection of the devices (50) to the master elements (10) at least partially by an automated query of the master elements (10), preferably via a communication interface and / or a fieldbus, - Evaluation of an installation location of at least one of the connected devices (50) on the basis of a mechanical model of the system (1).

12. Method (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that the determination of the comparison result comprises: - Resolving ambiguities when assigning the documented connection of the devices (50) to the master elements (10) according to the provided connection documentation to the predetermined connection of the devices (50) to the master elements (10) according to the installation specification, wherein the ambiguities result in particular from the fact that several identical devices (50) are connected to one or more master elements (10), wherein in order to resolve the ambiguities, spatial information about an actual installation location of the identical devices (50) is evaluated, preferably by a comparison with a mechanical model of the system (1).

13. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the provided connection documentation results from an automatic documentation of installation steps, which comprises the following computer-implemented steps: Initiating outputs to a user, by which the user is guided step by step to carry out installation steps, wherein the installation steps comprise at least the following: attaching the master elements (10) in the system (1), attaching the devices (50) in the system (1), connecting the devices (50) to the master elements (10), preferably to a specific connection (30) of the master elements (10), preferably via electrical cables and / or connectors, Collecting manual confirmations from the user that the respective installation steps have been carried out correctly, Documenting the installation steps and in particular the respective connection on the basis of the recorded confirmations, wherein the outputs and / or the confirmations and / or the documentation are carried out at least partially by specifying at least one specific port (30) of at least one of the master elements (10) to which at least one of the devices (50) has been connected, wherein the connection of the devices (50) to the master elements (10) is preferably documented on the basis of the provided installation specification at least in the connection documentation provided, in that the installation specification is automatically evaluated in the automatic documentation for the step-by-step instructions and / or the installation steps and / or the respective connection are automatically documented in relation to the installation specification.

14. A computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. A data processing device configured to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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