Field device

Abstract

The invention relates to a field device (100), comprising a measuring arrangement (10) configured to detect a process variable, a screen (20) with a first screen region (21) and a second screen region (25), the first screen region (21) being a touch-sensitive region for detecting an operator input from a user, and the second screen region (25) being a non-touch-sensitive region, and a control arrangement (30) configured to process the operator input for operating the field device (100).

Description

VEGA GRIESHABER KG Our ref.: V11199WO / CGS FIELD EQUIPMENT TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The invention relates generally to the field of process automation. In particular, the invention relates to a field device. BACKGROUND

[0002] In industrial measurement technology, particularly in process automation and control, field devices are regularly used to acquire one or more process variables or measured values, for example, in process vessels or other environments. These process vessels or environments may be used in, or be part of, industrial plant engineering systems where various process vessels and / or environments are monitored with regard to process variables or measured values ​​within the framework of process automation and control. Field devices include, in particular, flow rate, pressure, differential pressure, temperature, and level measuring devices. Using one or more corresponding sensors in a measuring arrangement, the field devices typically acquire one or more measured values.

[0003] Modern level gauges typically offer a wide range of settings to be configured for specific measurement tasks. Parameter settings can include, for example, the type of communication between a level gauge and a control system, fault behavior, access protection, or fine-tuning of the measurement itself. With this multitude of settings comes the increased demand for ease of use and intuitive operation. Field devices can be equipped with a display and additional input fields, such as buttons, knobs, and / or switches, for parameterization. Intuitive operation is achieved using touchscreens. Here, the touchscreen itself responds to touch and registers input. Additional input fields for parameterizing the field device are not required in this case.Even though such touchscreens offer advantages over traditional input fields like buttons, field devices with traditional input fields instead of touchscreens are often cheaper to manufacture and operate, as they do not require energy to be ready to register user input.

[0004] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a field device that at least partially eliminates the disadvantages known from the prior art. CGS:AFE SUMMARY

[0005] The present invention advantageously provides a field device which enables flexible and user-friendly operation while being cost-effective to manufacture and energy-efficient to operate.

[0006] The invention is defined in the independent claims. Advantageous further developments and / or embodiments are specified in the dependent claims and in the preceding and following description and disclosure.

[0007] The invention relates to a field device. The field device comprises a measuring arrangement configured for acquiring a process measurement variable. Furthermore, the field device includes a screen having a first screen area and a second screen area, wherein the first screen area is a touch-sensitive area for acquiring user input, and wherein the second screen area is a touch-insensitive area. The invention also includes a control arrangement configured for processing the user input for operating the field device.

[0008] This advantageously provides a field device that can be manufactured particularly cost-effectively because the entire screen does not need to be a touchscreen with corresponding touch technology (e.g., capacitive sensors, inductive sensors, pressure sensors, and the like). Instead, it is sufficient to include the touch technology only in the touch-sensitive area, i.e., to place one or more sensors or sensor areas in or on the screen only there. In principle, any touch technology can be used.

[0009] Furthermore, this advantageously provides a field device that has significantly lower energy consumption compared to field devices with conventional touchscreens. In particular, less screen area needs to be powered to capture user input. The second screen area can thus be used solely for displaying content. This second screen area is not touch-sensitive, meaning it is not equipped with any touch technology and cannot capture user input. Compared to conventional touchscreens, this eliminates the need to equip and power any screen area with touch technology that is not actually used for that purpose.One of the inventors' findings is that it is sufficient in the field device if a screen area is touch-insensitive and can then display corresponding screen content that is not intended to be touched, such as, but not limited to, the recorded process parameters or measured values, status information of the field device, instructions or requests for the user, and other notices and information.

[0010] Finally, a particularly intuitive field device is advantageously provided because, unlike classic touchscreens, it has only a limited touch-sensitive area. Users can recognize this boundary with the non-touch-sensitive area or compensate for it with Over time, the user learns, so that operation becomes even more intuitive in the initial screen area than if operation were possible across the entire screen. In other words, the capture of user input can be limited to a specific area, making it intuitively perceptible as the operating area.

[0011] The measuring arrangement can generally include one or more sensors. For example, the one or more sensors can be configured for flow rate, velocity, pressure, differential pressure, temperature, and / or level measurement, such as a limit level or a quantitatively determined level. Depending on the sensor type or field device, the sensor(s) can be of various designs, such as radar sensors, vibration sensors, acoustic sensors, infrared sensors, and similar types. Accordingly, the field device can be a flow rate, velocity, pressure, differential pressure, temperature, and / or level measuring instrument.

[0012] In principle, the screen can be partially designed as a touchscreen, specifically in the first screen area, and may include one or more sensors or sensor areas to detect user input upon touch. Whenever the term "touchscreen" is used herein, it refers to a screen that can be considered a touchscreen due to its first screen area. Any system can be used to implement the touch sensitivity of the touchscreen, including, but not limited to, resistive systems, surface capacitive systems, projected capacitive systems, inductive systems, and optical systems.

[0013] The control arrangement can be partially or completely integrated into the screen. In particular, the screen can be designed as an operating unit that may be detachable from the rest of the field device. When configured as an operating unit, the screen can include control electronics, such as part or all of the control arrangement. The control arrangement can include or be configured as a computing unit, a control unit, and / or an evaluation unit. Most specifically, the control arrangement can include or be configured as one or more computers, one or more processor units such as CPUs, one or more microcontrollers, or the like. Furthermore, the control arrangement can include a data storage device on which a program processing the user input can be stored.Furthermore, each sensor in the measuring arrangement can only acquire one measurement signal, which then needs to be evaluated to determine the process variable. Based on this measurement signal, the field device's control arrangement can then determine the measured value for the respective process variable(s). For this purpose, the control arrangement can use, for example, the same computer, processor unit, or microcontroller, or a different one, similar to the one used for processing operator input.

[0014] The field device may also include a communication arrangement for wired and / or wireless communication with a data processing system, wherein the A data processing system can comprise one or more data processing devices in the form of servers or cloud-based computers. For example, the data processing system can be implemented as a control system for multiple field devices. Wireless communication can be achieved using any transmission technology, such as WLAN, cellular networks, etc. Through wireless communication with the data processing system, the field device can transmit the acquired measurement signals and / or process variables, which can also be referred to as sensor and / or measurement data, to the data processing system, where they can then be used for process automation or process control of a higher-level process in which the process vessel is integrated. Alternatively, or on a touchscreen, the acquired measurement signals and / or process variables can be displayed. It may also be possible to...It is also possible that a history of the recorded measurement signals and / or process parameters is displayed, which are stored in a data memory of the measuring setup. Furthermore, the field device may have a power supply unit, such as a primary or secondary battery, or at least be equipped to accommodate one, so that the field device can be used autonomously.

[0015] Furthermore, the field device may have a mounting arrangement. The mounting arrangement may include any number of mounting sections and / or fastening means, such as one or more threads, a flange, a rotary fastener, and the like. In particular, the mounting arrangement of the field device may include a mounting section corresponding to a process connection of a process vessel, which may, for example, include a thread (e.g., an internal thread), with a matching thread (e.g., an external thread).

[0016] The first screen area can have at least one touch surface that can be activated and deactivated by means of the control arrangement to detect user input. Activation means creating a state for the touch surface so that it can detect user input. In particular, activation can include supplying the corresponding touch technology (for example, the sensor or sensor area) of the touch surface with energy, especially in the form of electricity. Deactivation, on the other hand, means that the touch surface is put into a state in which it no longer detects user input, even if a user touches the surface. Accordingly, the at least one touch surface can be selectively activated and deactivated to detect user input or not. This can save energy during times or situations in which no user input is required, expected, or desired.In the case of multiple touch surfaces, one or more touch surfaces can be selectively activated or deactivated. This allows only the touch surfaces required for a specific operation or input to be activated and supplied with energy, while other touch surfaces not currently needed do not require energy, thus providing a particularly energy-efficient field device.

[0017] The screen can be configured to display initial screen content on a touch surface activated by the control arrangement, indicating the user's input options. This initial screen content can include, for example, classic controls such as those typically used on traditional keypads or touchscreens, like ESC for an escape command and +, -, >, <, OK, and the like for corresponding commands. Such controls can be visually embedded in corresponding fields, boxes, or any other visual elements on the touch surface. This initial screen content indicates the input options available to the user, such as exiting a menu with ESC or confirming with OK. Advantageously, the user can...This allows field device operators to easily and reliably identify the first screen area or the activated touch surface.

[0018] The initial screen content can be set to be smaller or larger than the activated touch area. Of course, it's also possible for the initial screen content to be the same size as the activated touch area. The advantage of a smaller initial screen content compared to the activated or activatable touch area is that it's easier for the user to recognize, while operation is typically sufficient on a smaller area, thus saving material and energy. Conversely, the advantage of a larger initial screen content compared to the activated or activatable touch area is that it allows for inputs to be registered even if the user doesn't place their finger precisely on the initial screen content.This can be particularly relevant if the first screen area or the screen as a whole is rather small, for example to save space or costs, or for other reasons.

[0019] The control arrangement can be configured to activate and / or deactivate at least one touch surface depending on a second screen element displayed in the second screen area. In other words, the activation or deactivation of at least one touch surface, particularly one or more touch surfaces from a plurality of touch surfaces, depends on the second screen element of the second screen area. If the second screen element is, for example, one or more parameter settings or similar, one or more touch surfaces, particularly those with corresponding first screen elements, can be activated to parameterize the field device. Conversely, if the second screen element is, for example, a display of the first process measurement variable, then different, fewer, or more touch surfaces can be activated. The second screen element can also be dependent on the second screen element.

[0020] The second screen content can be visually separated from the first screen content of the first screen area. Visual separation refers in particular to visual display elements on the screen, which can be used specifically between the two screen contents or for one or both screen contents. Such a visual separation Differentiation can be achieved, for example, by using different colors for the first and second screen content. Such visual separation can also be achieved by using higher screen brightness for either the first or second screen content. Visual elements such as lines, 3D effects, and the like can also be used for this purpose. This makes it easier for the user to identify the usable area of ​​the screen.

[0021] As previously described, the screen area can have multiple touch surfaces. These can be distinct touch surfaces, which may be adjacent or spaced apart. Each touch surface can be equipped with its own touch technology, in particular its own sensor or sensor section, or the touch surfaces can share a common or interconnected touch technology that can differentiate between user inputs on the individual touch surfaces. For example, there can be 2 to 12, especially 4 to 10, and particularly 6 to 9 touch surfaces on the first screen area. For instance, 8 touch surfaces can be provided, offering both diverse operating options and a clear, user-friendly interface.

[0022] The multiple touch surfaces can be arranged around the second screen area. In particular, the touch surfaces can be arranged in a ring or circle around the second screen area. This allows for an intuitive distinction between the touch-sensitive and non-touch-sensitive parts of the screen. This distinction is also easy to implement from a manufacturing perspective. The first and second screen areas can be contiguous, especially if they are from the same screen panel, or they can be spaced apart, separate, or individual screen panels of the screen, which is referred to here collectively as a screen, specifically as a surface of the field device.

[0023] The second screen area can be configured to display a second screen element that is indicative of the process parameter acquired by the measuring system. For example, this second screen element could display the acquired process parameter or the measured value, such as the current or most recently measured value. However, other displays are also possible, such as the status of the field device (e.g., operational or non-operational), parameter settings, or more generally, settings, warnings, information, and the like. Therefore, the second screen area is particularly suitable for displaying such secondary screen elements that provide user guidance via the displayed information and / or for providing information regarding the field device.

[0024] The field device may further comprise at least one light element, which may be embedded in the screen or a screen housing, and the control arrangement may further be configured to control the at least one light element depending on a detected user input. In particular, it may be a continuous The field device can be a light element, such as a light strip, straight, curved, or in any shape. It can also include multiple light elements. At least one light element can be embedded in the screen itself, i.e., be part of or integrated into the screen, or it can be enclosed in a screen housing in which the screen is located. The control arrangement can control the at least one light element depending on the user input. For example, the at least one light element can be controlled to illuminate, set or change a specific light color, and so on. This allows the at least one light element on the field device to output information or indications related to the user input.

[0025] The at least one lighting element can be designed as a ring of light, at least partially, which can be arranged around the first and second screen areas. As a ring of light, the element can, in particular, have a ring-shaped, circular, round, spiral, or similar shape, especially around the two screen areas. "Partially" in this context means that the ring of light forms at least a partial, but not necessarily a complete, ring or traces such a ring shape. The specific arrangement as a ring of light, and especially around the two screen areas, achieves a visually simple and intuitive separation between them, making the information related to user input particularly easy to recognize by controlling the ring of light.Particularly when the illuminated ring is positioned at least partially around the screen area, increased visibility can be achieved at the edge of the field device or any control unit of the field device. This ensures that the color, illumination, flashing, or similar behavior of the illuminated ring remains reliably visible even at wide viewing angles. The high viewing angle stability guarantees that the control of the illuminated ring is reliably visible from various user positions relative to the field device. In particular, the illuminated ring can be positioned at or near the edge of the field device, while still remaining on the screen surface. At the edge, the illuminated ring is not, or only minimally, affected by the screen and thus remains clearly visible.

[0026] The field device can be in a locked state, in which the first screen area does not detect any operator input and / or the field device does not process any operator input. Furthermore, the field device can be in an unlocked state, in which the first screen area does not detect any operator input and / or the field device processes operator input to operate the field device. Finally, the first screen area can be configured to detect an operator pattern to protect against unintentional operator input and to transition the field device from the locked to the unlocked state.

[0027] The reason for this is that in industrial environments, field devices are often exposed to harsh environmental conditions both indoors and outdoors. Pollution, Adverse weather conditions such as rain, hail, or snow, or unintentional contact (e.g., during cleaning of an industrial plant), are everyday challenges faced by modern field devices. It has been observed that touchscreens, in particular, can be susceptible to accidental or, in other words, unintentional touching. This means that the touch is not intended for operating the field device, for example, during cleaning or due to external weather conditions. Rain, hail, flying stones, water, or similar substances can be falsely interpreted by the touchscreen's sensor as an operator touch. It has been found that such erroneous interactions can be registered, especially when the touchscreen is easily accessible.This can, for example, lead to parameterizations of the field device that render the measurement results of the field device unusable and may adversely affect an entire plant process.

[0028] Advantageously, this provides a field device that can switch from a locked to an unlocked state, thereby preventing unintentional operation (in the locked state) and allowing for simple, intentional operation (in the unlocked state). The operating pattern is designed to protect against unintentional input, not against unauthorized input as would be possible with a password. Advantageously, an operating pattern to protect against unintentional input can be significantly simpler and, in particular, accessible to everyone, eliminating the need for a password, coded device, or a specific coded device such as an electronic card or a user device with coding.It has become apparent that while passwords, passcodes, or similar measures can protect against unauthorized configuration of field devices, such protection is often unnecessary because many field devices are used in secured systems or buildings. Therefore, the disadvantage of cumbersome access control, requiring password knowledge or the use of specific electronic devices, can outweigh the advantage of straightforward operation. However, with field devices lacking access control, unintentional user input can pose a problem, as the devices can be configured unintentionally.

[0029] In combination with the partially touch-sensitive screen, this advantageously provides a field device with an even lower risk of unintentional operation. This is because reducing the usable area of ​​the touchscreen increases the likelihood that unintentional touches or similar actions that could trigger operation will occur on the touch-sensitive part of the screen and thus actually trigger an operation. The risk can be further reduced by making individual parts, such as touch areas of the touchscreen, activatable and deactivatable, as described in more detail below. The terms "touchscreen" and "screen" are used interchangeably here. The term "touchscreen" also includes the second, non-touch-sensitive area of ​​the screen.

[0030] The terms "locked state," "unlocked state," and "operating pattern" are to be interpreted broadly. The locked state serves to prevent the first screen area from capturing operator input and / or to prevent the field device from processing operator input, particularly to prevent unintentional manipulation of the field device, such as parameterization of settings. Specifically, or at least in this context, operator input that involves changes to the field device's parameters and / or settings is neither captured nor processed. In contrast, other operator inputs, especially those used to capture the operating pattern, may be permitted, captured, and / or processed.The unlocked state, in turn, enables the first screen area to detect user input and / or allows the field device to process user input, particularly in such a way that intentional manipulation of the field device, such as parameterizing settings, is possible. The operating pattern serves to protect against unintentional user input, so that when the operating pattern is detected by the field device, the locked state is converted to the unlocked state, or, in other words, the field device switches from the locked state to the unlocked state. The operating pattern can, for example, comprise one or more operating actions that must be performed, particularly on the field device itself, for example, by touching the touchscreen, perhaps in a predefined sequence in the case of multiple operating actions.Furthermore, the operating pattern can be predefined in such a way that the field device must detect this exact or approximate pattern to move the field device from the locked to the unlocked state. If, for example, a different operating pattern is detected in such a case, such as an incorrect sequence of operating actions that indicates an unintentional input, the field device may remain in the locked state.If necessary, a warning about the deviating or, in other words, incorrect operating pattern can be displayed on the screen, in particular on the second screen area, or by an acoustic means, for example a loudspeaker of the field device, if present, or another means of the field device, such as a light, for example one or more LEDs, especially the at least one light element, if present, whereby the warning can be displayed graphically, acoustically and / or optically.

[0031] The locked state can serve one or both purposes: preventing the first screen area from capturing user input and preventing the processing of user input. Accordingly, either the first screen area itself can be locked to user input, meaning it cannot capture any user input. Alternatively or additionally, the field device, particularly the control arrangement, can be prevented from processing user input, meaning it cannot receive user input and / or convert it into control commands, for example, for parameterizing the field device or generally. for making settings on the field device. The locked state can be displayed on the screen, particularly in the first and / or second screen area, for example, permanently or after being touched, so that the user knows that the first screen area and / or the processing of user input, especially by the control panel, is locked. The same applies accordingly to the unlocked state, which can serve one or both purposes: enabling the first screen area to capture user input and enabling the processing of user input, depending on what is locked. Specifically, the first screen area or parts thereof can be locked by deactivating touch surfaces, as explained herein. Conversely, the first screen area or parts thereof can be unlocked by activating the touch surfaces.

[0032] The field device can be configured to capture an operating pattern that is freely accessible on the field device. Freely accessible means that the operating pattern can be used by anyone. It is therefore, in particular, an obvious operating pattern, unlike, for example, a password or key combination, which is not obvious or freely accessible. Specifically, the operating pattern is password-free or, in other words, key combination-free. In particular, the operating pattern is also free of special devices or electronic equipment that are coded or otherwise not freely accessible or obvious, used to capture the operating pattern on the field device.

[0033] The operating pattern can be set up as a predefined pattern for the first screen area. This means, on the one hand, that the operating pattern is captured on the first screen area itself. On the other hand, it means that the operating pattern is predefined in its nature, or in other words, predefined. Accordingly, the predefined operating pattern must be captured to achieve the transition between states. In particular, the operating pattern may be predefined in such a way that this exact or approximately exact pattern must be detected by the first screen area in order to move the field device from the locked to the unlocked state. If, for example, a different operating pattern is detected in such a case—for instance, an incorrect sequence of actions is performed on different touch surfaces, or incorrect touch surfaces are activated, indicating an unintentional input—the field device may remain in the locked state.

[0034] The operating pattern may exhibit at least some of one of the following: - a path to be traced by touch on the first screen area, - a string of characters, in particular a string of numbers or letters, of at least two characters, to be touched on the first screen area, - at least one display element, in particular in the form of a key, that must be touched on the first screen area for a predetermined duration. One or more touch surfaces can be activated on the first screen area, for example for the route to be followed, for individual characters or sequences of characters, or for display elements such as a key. For example, the operating pattern may consist of tracing a specific, especially predefined, path on the first screen area by touching it with a finger or an input device for the first screen area, such as a stylus. The path may be a straight line, but it may also include rounded or angular sections, such as zigzag sections, which must be traced partially or completely with a predefined precision, i.e., without deviation, in order for the operating pattern to be recognized by the first screen area. Alternatively or additionally, for example, a specific, especially predefined, character sequence may be recognized by the user as the operating pattern by tapping it with their finger or an input device on the first screen area.The character sequence can be, for example, a sequence of numbers, allowing the user to capture the operating pattern by touching numbers displayed in descending or ascending order on the first screen area. Alternatively, it can be a sequence of letters or other characters, where, for example, letters or other characters must be touched in alphabetical or other logical or displayed order to capture the operating pattern. Finally, the first screen area, particularly an activatable or activated touch area thereof, can display an indicator element, such as a key, which must be touched for a predetermined duration, especially without releasing the key and possibly with pressure in the case of a pressure-sensitive first screen area, to capture the operating pattern.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, the operating pattern may include at least one of the following: touching the field device housing, touching the field device with a magnet, a voice command, a hand gesture, a communication command transmitted wirelessly via near-field communication, rotating the screen relative to the field device, or removing the screen from the field device. For example, the operating pattern may consist of touching the field device housing instead of, or in addition to, touching the screen, which can be registered by a corresponding sensor on the field device, such as an accelerometer. It is also possible for the field device to register magnetization when touched with a magnet.A user voice command, such as "Unlock," can also be used as an operating pattern. For this purpose, the field device may include one or more microphones to record the voice command. A hand gesture, particularly a predefined gesture like a user swiping their hand or finger in front of the field device, especially a sensor (e.g., a camera), is also possible as an operating pattern. Furthermore, it may be possible for a user device, such as a smartphone, to communicate wirelessly with the field device via near-field communication (NFC). NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and similar technologies can be used for NFC communication. In this case, a general unlock command can be transmitted as a communication command from any user device. can. For example, the field device can also send a request to the user device when the user device is in close proximity to the field device. The request can ask the user device whether the field device should be unlocked. The user can then confirm the unlocking on the user device or, optionally, decline. With a rotating screen, rotating the screen can also be used as an operating pattern, which typically cannot be unintentionally caused by external influences, similar to other variants mentioned herein, such as voice commands, hand gestures, etc. Therefore, these operating pattern variants, like the other variants, are particularly robust against unintentional unlocking of the field device. Finally, in the case of a field device or...The remaining field device, for example, a housing of the field device in which the measuring arrangement may be located, or a removable screen, may also constitute the operating pattern. It is also possible that removing the screen represents the operating pattern. In principle, the operating pattern may comprise a combination of any of the operating pattern variants described herein as examples, or that one of the variants alone constitutes the operating pattern.

[0036] The field device can be configured to display an indication and / or part of the operating pattern on the screen, particularly on the first and / or second screen area. For example, the screen can display the path to be followed, the characters, and / or the indicator element for an operating pattern. In addition to such a part of the operating pattern, contextual information can be displayed as an indication, such as an explanation and / or images, for example, what the user must do to record the operating pattern. For example, when a path is to be followed, the display might show "To unlock, please trace the path with your finger" or something similar.For operating patterns that are not displayed on the screen, at least an indication of the operating pattern can be shown, for example, as a short video or a sequence of hand gestures, touching the casing, bringing a user device near, and the like. The indication can also be provided additionally or alternatively as text or an explanation. In principle, any medium, such as text, image, sound, video, and the like, can be used for the indication.

[0037] The field device can be configured to display the indication and / or part of the operating pattern only after touching the field device, particularly the screen. Otherwise, the screen can, for example, display nothing or be in an energy-saving mode. Alternatively, the screen can display the recorded process parameters. This prevents the screen and its display from becoming cluttered and avoids unnecessary energy consumption by continuously displaying an indication or part of the operating pattern. Instead, the indication and / or part of the operating pattern is only displayed after touching, which is intuitive for every user, even if they are unfamiliar with the field device or the unlocking function using the operating pattern.

[0038] The field device can also be configured to simultaneously display on the screen the indication and / or part of the operating pattern and a measurement taken by the measuring arrangement. To display the process measurement parameter. The process measurement parameter can, for example, be displayed in the second screen area, while the indication and / or part of the operating pattern is displayed in the first screen area. This ensures that the acquired process measurement parameter(s) are always visible and accessible to the user, preventing any interference from the operating pattern. Displaying the acquired process measurement parameter(s) can be a standard screen display that is shown by default.

[0039] It can also be configured that the field device automatically returns from the unlocked state to the locked state, for example, after one or more parameter settings or adjustments have been made. Additionally or alternatively, the field device can be configured to return from the unlocked state to the locked state after a predetermined period, particularly after a period without any user input being detected on the screen. This eliminates the need for the user to manually prevent the device from being returned to the locked state, thus ensuring that unintentional user input is avoided. This prevents the field device from being unintentionally parameterized later due to a forgotten lock. Furthermore, depending on the predetermined period, this allows the user sufficient time to make multiple parameter settings or adjustments.For example, you can be given a duration of several seconds or several minutes. The specified duration could, for instance, fall within a range of 20 seconds to 15 minutes, particularly between 30 seconds and 10 minutes, and especially between 1 minute and 5 minutes.

[0040] It is also possible that the field device is configured to display an indication of the locked or unlocked state on the screen. For example, symbols can be used as indicators, such as a closed padlock for the locked state and an open padlock for the unlocked state. These symbols, or at least the symbol or indicators for the locked state, can also be part of the user interface, for example, as an indicator that must be touched for a predetermined duration. Alternatively or additionally, the indication can also be presented as text or in some other way. This allows a user to intuitively determine why, for example, their input is not being registered and / or processed. However, it is also possible that this indication is only displayed or highlighted, for example, enlarged, after the screen has been touched.

[0041] Furthermore, it is possible that the field device is configured to communicate its transition from a locked to an unlocked state to a remote data processing system. This remote data processing system can be configured for multiple field devices, as described, and function as a control system. Such a control system can monitor when and which field device is unlocked. This allows for the monitoring of any parameter settings made by users or service technicians and the detection of malfunctions.

[0042] It is also possible for the field device to be configured so that the locked state can be deactivated. In other words, it can be specified that the field device is always unlocked, meaning that user inputs are recorded on the screen and / or by the field device, particularly the control unit. This allows the operating pattern for field devices to be disabled, for example, if unintentional operation is not possible in a particular environment, such as because the field device is enclosed, used in a cleanroom environment, or similar.

[0043] The control system can be configured to process user input for parameterizing the field device. Accordingly, the field device can be parameterized via user input. Parameterization, in this context, is broadly understood as any change to a parameter and / or setting on the field device. Such a setting can affect various aspects and / or units of the field device, such as energy consumption (e.g., setting an energy-saving mode, adjusting screen brightness), and the like. It can also affect the measurement setup, adjusting parameters relevant to the measurement by the sensor(s), for example, setting environmental conditions or measurement parameters (e.g., measurement frequency, measurement accuracy), and the like.

[0044] The field device can also be configured to retain a displayed process measurement while unlocked. This advantageously ensures that the user can identify the process measurement that was last displayed and / or recorded at the time of unlocking. This allows the user to parameterize the field device or use it in other ways, particularly based on this process measurement, without the process measurement fluctuating over time with user input and thus potentially corrupting the parameterization or other use.

[0045] The field device can have an initial locked state in which the screen, particularly the first screen area, does not register any user input. The field device can also have an initial unlocked state in which the first screen area does register user input. The field device can be configured to register an initial user input pattern to prevent unintentional user input and to transition the field device from the initial locked state to the initial unlocked state. The field device can also have a second locked state in which it does not process any user input. The field device can also have a second unlocked state in which it processes user input to operate the field device.And the field device can be configured to detect a second operating pattern to protect against unintentional operator input, in order to transition the field device from the second locked state to the second unlocked state. In other words, there can be two operating patterns, one of which must be detected to unlock the screen for operator input detection, and another of which must be detected to also enable the processing of the... To enable user input. For example, this allows for the initial capture of user input and subsequently ensures that the processing of that input, such as making a setting or parameterization, is intentional. The user interface patterns can be the same or different. For example, the two user interface patterns can be of the same type, as described herein, but with different implementations, such as a different path to be followed. Alternatively, the two user interface patterns can be of different types, such as following a path and touching a string of characters.

[0046] The field device can be configured such that it must be in the first unlocked state to detect the second operating pattern. This ensures that the user is not confronted with two operating patterns simultaneously, nor does it require the field device to detect two patterns at the same time, thus simplifying the unlocking process.

[0047] The field device can also be configured to detect whether a detected operating pattern was performed by a human, in particular by a human finger, and / or whether a detected operating pattern was performed by a cleaning action. If the detected operating pattern was performed by a human, in particular by a finger touching the screen, it can be assumed to be intentional operation. In contrast, a cleaning action is typically unintentional operation, for example, with a rag, a jet of water from a pressure washer, or similar. By detecting both, the field device can differentiate between the two operating patterns, particularly by examining the screen, especially the first screen area.Accordingly, if the operating pattern originates from a human, in particular from touchscreen operation with a finger, the field device can be moved from the locked state to the unlocked state. Alternatively, or if the operating pattern is associated with a cleaning action, the field device can remain in the locked state. The distinct operating patterns—that is, those performed by a human, in particular their finger, and those performed by the cleaning action—can advantageously be differentiated by recording parameters relating to the operating pattern and analyzing them to determine the nature of the operating pattern. For an operating pattern on the screen, such parameters could include, for example, absolute pressure (in particular, operating pressure) on the screen, the speed of the operating pattern, consistency, uniformity of pressure on the screen, and similar characteristics.For example, a specific range of absolute operating pressure can be correlated with a conscious human interaction of the screen with the finger, and thus be distinguished from operating pressures lying outside this range, which can accordingly be recorded as a cleaning action, or where one or more other ranges may be known for the cleaning action that correlate with it.

[0048] The field device can also incorporate an algorithm based on artificial intelligence or machine learning to recognize whether a detected operating pattern was performed by a human, particularly a human finger, and / or whether a detected operating pattern was performed by a cleaning action. This algorithm can, for example, be executed by and stored within the control unit. The operator inputs and / or the detected operating patterns can serve as training data. Specific areas that correlate with a human finger or a cleaning action can also be defined as training data for the algorithm. The algorithm can be pre-trained and / or trained or further trained directly on the field device itself.Accordingly, the algorithm can increasingly learn to make more precise distinctions between cleaning that unintentionally captures the operating pattern and conscious operation by a human that intentionally captures the operating pattern.

[0049] The screen can be exposed. This means that the screen is at least partially, predominantly, or completely unenclosed, framed, and / or covered. In fact, the screen is so exposed that it can be operated freely from the outside without having to remove any cover or similar device. This results in a high risk of unintentional operation of the screen. At the same time, ease of use is increased because the screen does not need to be exposed first, for example, by removing a cover, and additional parts and weight are avoided on the field device.

[0050] The control arrangement can be configured to operate at least one indicator light in a first lighting mode when the field device is locked, and in a second lighting mode when it is unlocked. For example, the first lighting mode could be a mode in which at least one indicator light glows red or emits a red light. This allows the indicator light to signal that the screen or the first screen area is locked, for which the signal color red could be used. Of course, the first lighting mode could also be any other type, including different light colors, flashing, and so on. The second lighting mode, on the other hand, could be, for example, a mode in which at least one indicator light glows green or emits a green light.This allows at least one light element to indicate that the screen, or at least the first screen area, is unlocked, for which, for example, the signal color green could be used. Of course, the first light mode can also take any other form, including different light colors, flashing of the light element, and so on.

[0051] The operating pattern can be indicative of the second lighting mode. For example, the first screen area might activate several touch surfaces, each displaying different numbers. The second lighting mode could then consist of at least one lighting element flashing with multiple light pulses. The operating pattern could then consist of touching the touch surface or number corresponding to the number of light pulses per sequence or per flash. Accordingly, the The operating pattern should be chosen in such a way that it incorporates the second lighting mode, which must be recognized in order to successfully execute the operating pattern. Another example would be selecting the color emitted on the first screen area according to the second lighting mode.

[0052] The screen can be detachable from the field device. In particular, the screen can be designed as an operating unit that can be detached from the rest of the field device or at least from the field device housing. The connection between the screen and the field device can be implemented in any way, for example mechanically, such as by a rotary lock, spring mechanism, and the like, or alternatively or additionally magnetically and / or similarly. Designed as an operating unit, the screen can include control electronics, such as part or the complete control arrangement.

[0053] The screen can be essentially sealed tightly against the housing of the field device. This prevents contaminants, moisture, and the like from entering the interior of the field device through the screen. In particular, this allows the screen to be designed to be exposed without incurring potential risks regarding contamination, moisture, etc.

[0054] For example, the field device can be configured as a flow, velocity, pressure, differential pressure, temperature, and / or level measuring device. In particular, the field device can be any of the aforementioned measuring devices or any combination thereof. For such combinations, the measuring arrangement can include several sensors of different types.

[0055] A second aspect of the invention relates to a method for unlocking a field device according to the first aspect, wherein the method comprises: detecting the operating pattern to protect against unintentional input, and, after detecting the operating pattern, transferring the field device from the locked state to the unlocked state.

[0056] Features, elements, functions and / or advantages of the field device described herein may also be applied to the procedure described herein, and vice versa, and in any combination.

[0057] Accordingly, the method may, for example, include displaying an indication and / or part of the operating pattern on the touchscreen, particularly after touching or detecting a touch on the field device. Simultaneously, a process measurement variable acquired by the measuring arrangement may be displayed. The method may also include transitioning the unlocked state to the locked state after a predetermined period, particularly after a predetermined period without any operating input detected by the touchscreen. The method may also include displaying an indication of the locked or unlocked state on the touchscreen. Furthermore, the method may include communicating the transition of the field device from the locked to the unlocked state to a data processing system located remotely from the field device. Alternatively, the method may also include deactivating the The method may include processing the operator input for parameterizing the field device, for example, via the touchscreen or data processing system. It may also include maintaining a displayed process measurement variable during the unlocked state. Furthermore, the method may include detecting whether a detected operating pattern was executed by a human, in particular by a human finger, and / or whether a detected operating pattern was executed by a cleaning action, in particular by executing a computer logic (CL) or machine learning (ML) based algorithm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0058] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0059] Fig. 1 shows a field device in a perspective view.

[0060] Fig. 2 shows a field device and a data processing system in a schematic view.

[0061] Figures 3a to 3c show different screen displays of the field device screen in a schematic view.

[0062] Fig. 4 shows another screen display of the field device screen in a schematic view.

[0063] Fig. 5 shows another field device in a perspective view.

[0064] Fig. 6 shows touch surfaces of a first screen area of ​​a screen of the field device from Fig. 5.

[0065] Similar, similar-looking, identical or equivalent elements in the figures may be provided with similar or identical reference symbols. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXECUTION FORMS

[0066] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary field device 100 for acquiring a process measurement variable, for example, within a process vessel (not shown). The field device 100 is shown here as an example of a radar level gauge, but can alternatively be any other field device 100 as described herein. In this example, the field device 100 has a corresponding transmitting and receiving antenna as a sensor 12 for acquiring radar measurement signals, which can be evaluated by the field device 100 to acquire a process measurement variable, for example, a fill level in the process vessel in or on which the field device 100 can be mounted.

[0067] The field device 100 is equipped with a screen 20. The screen 20 can be at least partially designed as a touchscreen, or in other words, a touch display, on which user input can be registered by touch and various information, indications, and the like can be displayed. Electronics, in particular a measuring arrangement 10 and / or a control arrangement 30 (see Fig. 2) The screen 20 is located inside a housing 50 of the field device 100. The screen 20 is attached to the housing 50 and is sealed to the housing 50, in particular by means of a seal 60, to be dustproof and watertight. The screen 20 can be detachable from the housing 50. The screen 20 is also shown here exposed as an example.

[0068] Figure 2 shows the field device 100 in a schematic view. "Schematic" here means that the arrangement or components of the field device 100 are shown schematically, without any construction details.

[0069] The field device 100 comprises the measuring arrangement 10 for acquiring one or more process parameters. The measuring arrangement 10 includes, for example, one or more sensors 12, such as the radar sensor for measuring the fill level in the process vessel, and optionally one or more additional sensors 12, such as for measuring the pressure within the process vessel. The sensor(s) 12 can, for example, acquire measurement signals which, in turn, can be evaluated by the measuring arrangement 10, in particular by a processing unit thereof and / or the control arrangement 30, in order to acquire the process parameter. The control arrangement 30 can itself comprise a processing unit 32 and / or a data storage device 34. The control arrangement 30 can be a central control unit of the field device 100 and / or at least partially or completely part of the screen 20, thus forming an operating unit.The control arrangement 30 can at least be configured to process a user input captured by the screen 20 in order to operate the field device 100 accordingly, in particular to parameterize it or to make adjustments to it.

[0070] Furthermore, the field device 100 here includes, by way of example, a wireless communication arrangement 40, for example with one or more antennas for radio transmission, in order to transmit, for example, the recorded process measurements to a remote data processing system 200 in the form of a server, edge device, computer or the like, from which an industrial or plant engineering process can be controlled, in which the field device 100 and / or the process vessel is integrated, in particular as part of a plant, for example a chemical production plant or other plant.

[0071] Figures 3a to 3c show different exemplary screen displays of the screen 20 of the field device 100 in a schematic view. For illustrative purposes, no distinction is made here between different screen areas 21, 25, as described, for example, with regard to Figure 5. Nevertheless, in Figures 3a to 3c and in Figure 4, the screen 20 can be touch-sensitive only on a first screen area 21, on which the operating inputs, described below by way of example, can then be received, as explained in more detail with reference to Figure 5.

[0072] For example, the screen display of Figure 3a can be displayed after touching the screen 20, in particular the first screen area 21. As shown in Figure 3a by an indication with a circled letter A, the field device 100 is in a locked state A, in which the screen 20, in particular the first Screen area 21 does not detect any user input when touching screen 20, particularly the first screen area 21, and / or the field device 100 does not process any user input to parameterize the field device 100. User input here refers specifically to input aimed at changing settings or parameterizing the field device 100. In contrast, screen 20, and especially the first screen area 21, can indeed function in the locked state A, but only to detect the user input pattern 1 described below and not to make any settings on the field device 100.

[0073] The field device 100 can detect the operating pattern 1 shown in order to unlock the field device 100 and thus bring it into an unlocked state B, in which the screen 20, in particular the first screen area 21, detects operating inputs and / or the field device 100 processes the operating inputs to operate the field device 100, as shown by way of example in Fig. 4, including an indication of the unlocked state B with a circled letter B. The operating pattern 1 is designed to protect against unintentional operating input and is freely accessible to everyone, i.e., password-free and, in particular, intuitively designed, meaning easily accessible or logically solvable for every user. The unlocked state B can be communicated by the field device 100 to the data processing system 200.

[0074] The operating pattern 1 is shown by way of example on the screen 20, in particular on the first screen area 21, in Figures 3a to 3c. By way of example, the operating pattern 1 in Figure 3a is a path to be traced by a user touching the screen 20, in particular the first screen area 21, with a finger or stylus. In Figure 3b, the operating pattern 1 is by way of example a sequence of characters in the form of a number sequence to be touched in a sequence, such that the operating pattern 1 is divided among several display elements in the form of numbers, which are circled here by way of example. In Figure 3c, a display element is shown on the screen 20, which can be represented by way of example as a key or lock, and which must be touched, in particular pressed, for a predetermined duration in order to unlock the field device 100.

[0075] In principle, operating patterns 1 can alternatively or additionally also be detected outside of the screen 20, for example by a voice command, a hand gesture in front of the field device 100, removing the screen 20 and the like, which is not explicitly shown here.

[0076] Furthermore, Fig. 3c shows by way of example that the screen 20 can display other information or indications in addition to the operating pattern 1, such as, for example, the recorded process measurement variable, especially on the second screen area 25, which may be insensitive to touch or not receptive or processable for operating inputs.

[0077] The recorded process parameter is shown here as an example in the form of an absolute value, in this case 1.234 m fill level, and a percentage fill level from 0 to 100%. Of course, the recorded process parameter can also be displayed differently, for example as a relative percentage, or similarly. Another piece of information displayed here is, for example, the name of the measuring point "M-501". Additional or alternative information can be displayed. Information or indications such as status information, or other measured values ​​such as pressure and temperature, may be displayed. Furthermore, explanations or information on how to record operating pattern 1 may be displayed, or warning messages may appear if operating pattern 1 is not recorded correctly.

[0078] Figure 4 shows a schematic view of another screen display of the screen 20 of the field device 100, which can be displayed after understanding the operating pattern 1. Here, a menu 2 is shown, which displays various example parameters (Parameter 1, Parameter 2, Parameter 3, and Setting 4, or in other words, one or more settings). Thus, different parameters or settings can be set or parameterized directly in menu 2, or submenus can be accessed by corresponding inputs on screen 20, in which the parameters, for example, relating to the measuring arrangement 10, or settings can be adjusted. As an example, the previously displayed process measurement variable is retained and displayed in the screen display of Fig. 4.

[0079] Optionally, the menu display of menu 2 itself may include, for example, a further operating pattern 1 for recording, in order to enable the processing of an operator input within it. This provides double protection for the field device 100 against unintentional operator input for parameterizing the field device 100: firstly, the touchscreen itself must be unlocked to prevent operator input outside of operating pattern 1, and secondly, the input for parameterizing the field device 100 must be unlocked by recording an operating pattern 1.

[0080] Figure 5 shows another exemplary field device 100 in a perspective view. The field device 100 can alternatively be configured like the field device 100 shown in Figures 1 to 4. The field device 100 comprises the screen 20, which has the first screen area 21 and the second screen area 25. The first screen area 21 is a touch-sensitive area for detecting the user's input 1 (see Figure 6, which shows the user's finger touching the first screen area 21). The second screen area 25 is a non-touch-sensitive area.

[0081] On the second screen area 25, a second screen content 26 is displayed as an example, which is furthermore an example of a process measurement variable acquired by the measuring arrangement 10. On the first screen area 21, three touch surfaces 22 are activated as an example, which can be operated or actuated by the user by touch, for example with their finger, as shown in Fig. 6.

[0082] As Figure 6 shows as a schematic view of the first screen area 21, the number of activatable touch surfaces 22 can be more (and also fewer) than three. For example, eight touch surfaces 22 are arranged in a ring around the first screen area 21. Some or all of these touch surfaces 22 can be assigned initial screen content 23, which is shown here as an example of characters for operation, such as... The field device 100 is operated using the +, -, <, >, and OK symbols. These symbols indicate the user's input options, such as confirming with OK or controlling with +, <, or >. The touch surfaces 22 can be activated and displayed with the respective screen content 23, as required for controlling or operating the field device 100. The touch surfaces 22 can also be deactivated if necessary; in particular, the entire first screen area 21 can be deactivated if required, so that it can no longer register any input, either partially or completely, thus saving energy. The power to operate the screen 20 can be supplied, for example, by a wired power supply or battery (not shown) of the field device 100.

[0083] As shown in Fig. 5, the field device 100 here features, by way of example, a light element 29 in the form of at least a partial light ring, which runs around the two screen areas 21, 25. The light element 29 can, for example, be set to different light modes to indicate the previously described locked state A or unlocked state B, such as glowing red or green. Furthermore, the light element 29 can be used in connection with locking and / or unlocking the first screen area 21 or, more generally, the screen 20, as explained herein.

[0084] It should be further noted that "comprehensive" and "comprising" do not exclude other features or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. It should also be noted that features or steps described with reference to one of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps of other embodiments described above. Reference numerals in the claims are not to be considered limitations.

[0085] As used herein, the expression "indicative of" can mean, for example, "reflective" and / or "comprehensive." Accordingly, a unit, element, and / or step referred to here as "indicative of [...]" may be used synonymously or interchangeably with one, two, or all of the aforementioned units, elements, and / or steps "comprehensive [...]" and the aforementioned unit, element, and / or step "reflective [...]".

[0086] Furthermore, expressions such as "based on," "related," "associated," and similar expressions are not to be understood exclusively in relation to the units, elements, and / or steps to which they refer, unless otherwise specified. Instead, unless otherwise specified, these expressions are to be understood as meaning that, for example, a unit, element, or step to which one of these expressions or a similar expression refers, e.g., "based on" one or another unit, element, or step, does not preclude the possibility that the unit, element, or step in question may also be "based" on a different unit, element, or step than the one to which it refers.

[0087] Any designation of procedures, steps, and elements as first, second, etc., as indicated herein, serves solely to make the procedures, their steps, and elements referable and distinguishable from one another. The designation of methods, steps, and elements This in no way constitutes a limitation on the scope of this disclosure. For example, if this disclosure describes a third step of a process, a first or second step of the process need not be present, and certainly need not be performed before the third step, unless it is expressly stated that they are required per se or before the third step. Furthermore, the presentation of processes or steps in a particular order is merely intended to facilitate understanding of this disclosure and in no way constitutes a limitation on the scope of this disclosure. In general, the processes and steps may be performed in any conceivable order unless an expressly prescribed order is stated.In particular, the terms "first", "second", "third" or "a)", "b)", "c)" and the like are used in the description and in the claims to distinguish similar elements and not necessarily to describe a sequential or chronological order. It is to be assumed that the terms used in this way are interchangeable under suitable circumstances and that the embodiments of the disclosure described herein may also function in orders other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0088] Within the scope of this disclosure, each specified numerical value is typically associated with an accuracy interval which the person skilled in the art understands to be such that the technical effect of the feature in question is still guaranteed. Within the scope of this disclosure, the deviation from the specified numerical value is at least in the range of ± 10%, preferably ± 5%. The aforementioned deviation from the specified numerical interval of ± 10%, preferably ± 5%, can also be expressed by terms such as "about", "approximately", and the like, as used here in relation to a numerical value.

Claims

REQUIREMENTS 1. Field equipment (100), comprising: - a measuring arrangement (10) which is set up to record a process measurement variable, - a screen (20) comprising a first screen area (21) and a second screen area (25), wherein the first screen area (21) is a touch-sensitive area for detecting user input, and wherein the second screen area (25) is a non-touch-sensitive area, and - a control arrangement (30) which is configured to process the operator input for operating the field device (100).

2. Field device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first screen area (21) has at least one touch surface (22) which can be activated and deactivated by means of the control arrangement (30) to detect the operator input.

3. Field device (100) according to claim 2, wherein the screen (20) is configured to display a first screen content (23) on a touch surface (22) activated by the control arrangement (30), which is indicative of an operating input possibility of the user.

4. Field device (100) according to claim 3, wherein the first screen content (23) is configured to be smaller or larger than the activated touch surface (22).

5. Field device (100) according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the control arrangement (30) is configured to activate and / or deactivate the at least one touch surface (22) depending on a second screen content (26) displayed on the second screen area (25).

6. Field device (100) according to claim 5, wherein the second screen content (26) is optically separated from a first screen content (23) of the first screen area (21).

7. Field device (100) according to one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the first screen area (21) has several touch surfaces (22).

8. Field device (100) according to claim 7, wherein the multiple touch surfaces (22) are arranged around the second screen area (23).

9. Field device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second screen area (25) is configured to display a second screen content (26) which is indicative of the process measurement variable detected by the measuring arrangement (10).

10. Field device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the field device (100) further comprises at least one luminaire element (29) which is embedded in the screen (20) or a screen housing, wherein the control arrangement (30) is further configured to control the at least one luminaire element (40) depending on a detected user input.

11. Field device (100) according to claim 10, wherein the at least one luminous element (29) is designed as an at least partial luminous ring arranged around the first screen area (21) and the second screen area (25).

12. Field device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the field device (100) has a locked state (A) in which the first screen area (21) does not detect any operator inputs and / or the field device (100) does not process any operator inputs, the field device (100) has an unlocked state (B) in which the first screen area (21) does not detect any operator inputs and / or the field device (100) processes the operator inputs for operating the field device (100), and the first screen area (21) is configured to detect an operator pattern to protect against unintentional operator input in order to transfer the field device (100) from the locked state (A) to the unlocked state (B).

13. Field device (100) according to claim 10 or 11 and according to claim 12, wherein the control arrangement (30) is configured to operate the at least one light element (29) in a first light mode when the field device (100) is locked (A) and to operate the at least one light element (29) in a second light mode when the field device (100) is unlocked (B).

14. Field device (100) according to claim 13, wherein the operating pattern is indicative of the second lighting mode.

15. Field device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the screen (20) is detachable from the field device (100).

16. Field device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the field device (100) is configured as a flow, flow velocity, pressure, differential pressure, temperature and / or level measuring device.

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