AR Field Device Startup for Intuitive Parameter Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current field device start-up processes require technical understanding, making it difficult for non-experienced operators to reliably configure and parameterize devices, especially in industrial automation settings where hundreds of parameters need to be set using text-based input.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a service unit with a display unit and camera to identify field devices, display parameters as virtual symbols superimposed on the field of view, allow selection and input of parameter values, and transfer these values to the device, simplifying the start-up process by using a database for parameter settings and enabling intuitive parameter input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If text-based parameter input is used for field device configuration, then complete parameterization can be achieved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring technical understanding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a camera-based visual interface as an intermediary between the operator and the field device parameters. Instead of direct text-based input requiring technical knowledge, the system captures images of the device, automatically extracts parameter information through image recognition, and presents simplified input options to the operator. This intermediary layer masks the complexity of the configuration process while maintaining complete parameterization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates visual copies of the field device parameters through image capture and processing. Rather than requiring operators to read and input technical parameter names and values directly, the camera captures visual representations of the device display or labels, and the system processes these images to generate simplified input forms. This copying approach transforms complex technical information into visually intuitive formats.
2Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive parameterization is implemented for field devices, then device functionality is complete, but device complexity increases making operation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex parameterization process into distinct visual stages: image capture of the device, automatic extraction of parameter information through image recognition, presentation of simplified input options, and confirmation of settings. This segmentation breaks down the overwhelming complexity of configuring hundreds of parameters into manageable visual steps, allowing operators to progress through configuration without being overwhelmed by technical details.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the traditional mechanical/text-based parameter input mechanism with an optical/image-based system. Instead of operators manually reading technical manuals and typing parameter values, the camera captures images of the device display or physical labels, and image processing algorithms automatically extract and structure the parameter information. This substitution of optical recognition for manual text processing dramatically reduces the perceived complexity while maintaining complete adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If visual display with virtual symbols is used, then ease of operation improves through intuitive interface, but device complexity increases due to additional display processing
Solution Approach 1:
The service unit creates visual copies of the field device parameters and their relationships through virtual symbols displayed on the screen. Instead of presenting raw technical data or text-based parameter lists, the system generates graphical representations that mirror the physical device structure and parameter relationships. These visual copies provide intuitive understanding without requiring operators to interpret complex technical documentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional text-based parameter lists to two-dimensional visual displays with spatial relationships. Virtual symbols are positioned and sized to reflect their functional relationships and relative importance, creating a visual map of the device parameters. This dimensional transformation allows operators to grasp complex parameter relationships at a glance, improving intuitiveness while the additional display processing complexity is justified by the significant gain in operational ease.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for starting-up using a service unit a field device of automation technology mounted on a container at a measuring location, wherein the service unit has a display unit and a camera, comprising: identifying the field device using the service unit; showing on the display unit at least one parameter to be set, wherein the at least one parameter to be set is ascertained based on the identifying of the field device, showing on the display unit the field of view of the operator, and showing at least one virtual symbol superimposed on the field of view shown on the display unit; selecting at least one predetermined parameter value, or inputting at least one parameter value; confirming the selected, or input, parameter value, and transferring the confirmed parameter value into the field device.