Automatic Device Parameter Binding via EPATH
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automation devices require input and output data mapping in the configuration software domain, leading to performance issues due to the need for duplicate memory allocation and labor-intensive configuration processes, especially when dealing with complex devices that require numerous parameters.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a run-time engine that allows direct access to device parameters without the need for input and output data in the configuration software domain, using a virtual data table and EPATH to point to each parameter, enabling dynamic parameter availability to the core firmware engine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If input and output data mapping is implemented in the configuration software domain, then device parameters can be accessed during logic execution, but duplicate memory allocation is required leading to performance delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the parameter access functionality from the configuration software domain and relocates it to the device parameter memory space. By removing the intermediate data mapping layer and allowing direct access to device parameters during logic execution, the system eliminates duplicate memory allocation while maintaining full parameter accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal parameter access mechanism that works across both configuration and execution domains. The EPATH (Extended Parameter Addressing Technique) enables a single parameter definition to be accessed directly from multiple contexts without requiring separate data copies or mappings for each domain.
2Adaptability or versatility
If input and output data mapping is implemented in the configuration software domain, then parameters can be bound to logic instructions, but the configuration process becomes labor-intensive especially for complex devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service configuration where the system automatically manages parameter bindings without requiring manual data mapping. The EPATH mechanism allows parameters to be directly referenced by their unique identifiers, and the system automatically resolves these references during both configuration and execution, eliminating the need for manual creation of data mappings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces EPATH as an intermediary addressing mechanism that bridges the configuration software and device parameters. This mediator layer provides automatic parameter resolution and binding, replacing manual mapping processes while maintaining the ability to bind parameters to logic instructions in both configuration and execution domains.
3Ease of operation
If duplicate memory allocation is performed for parameter data, then parameters are accessible in configuration domain, but memory usage increases and performance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the parameter data from the configuration software domain and consolidates it in the device parameter memory space. By removing the duplicate data storage requirement and enabling direct access to device parameters during logic execution, the system maintains full parameter accessibility while eliminating redundant memory allocation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides techniques for automatically binding device parameters to an input and output interface. Doing so enables dynamic parameters to be available to the core firmware engine. More specifically, there is no input and output data in the configuration software domain required for mapping the parameters. Rather, the configuration software may directly access the device parameters during the logic execution. This is achieved in a library by representing the parameter repository and the EPATH pointing to each parameter from the configuration software domain.