Automation Unit Interpreter Framework for Shock-Free Program Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control and communication systems for machinery automation, such as power plants, are inflexible and complex, making it difficult to modify operation programs without disrupting the running process or increasing error probability.
Innovation Solution
A control and communication system with an engineering unit that uses a code-configurator to project automation functions as configured data structures, which are interpreted by an automation unit's interpreter framework, allowing for shock-free modifications and rapid deployment of new functions without interrupting the running process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional programming methods are used to modify operation programs, then system flexibility and adaptability improve, but system complexity and error probability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses configuration files as simplified copies or representations of the actual automation functions. Instead of directly programming complex automation logic, users create configuration files that contain parameter settings and function definitions. These configuration files are then automatically processed by the automation unit to generate the actual operation program, thereby reducing programming complexity while maintaining system flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces configuration files as an intermediary between the user and the automation system. The configuration file serves as a mediator that translates user requirements into automated program code. This intermediary layer simplifies the interaction by allowing users to work with high-level configuration parameters rather than low-level programming details, thus reducing complexity while preserving adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional programming methods are used to modify operation programs, then system adaptability improves, but modification time and disruption to running process increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-defining automation functions and their parameters in configuration files before actual execution. The automation unit reads these pre-configured files and automatically generates the operation program in advance. This allows modifications to be prepared and validated before being applied to the running system, reducing modification time and minimizing disruption to the running process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses configuration files as portable representations of automation functions that can be easily copied, modified, and transferred. Instead of rewriting complex program code, users can modify existing configuration files or create new ones, which are then automatically processed by the automation unit. This copying approach significantly reduces modification time while maintaining system adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If configuration files are used to define automation functions, then modification ease improves, but system reliability may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the automation unit reads configuration files, processes them, and generates operation programs that can be validated before execution. The system provides feedback on configuration errors, syntax issues, or logical inconsistencies before the modified program is activated. This feedback loop allows for error detection and correction, maintaining reliability while improving modification ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary validation and processing of configuration files before applying modifications to the running system. The automation unit reads and processes configuration files in advance, generating and validating the resulting operation program before activation. This preliminary action ensures that errors are detected and corrected before they can affect system reliability, while still allowing easy modification through configuration files.
Data Source
AI summary
A system providing control and communication is provided including at least one automation unit being adapted to run an operation program, and an engineering unit being adapted to modify the operation program, the engineering unit including a code-configurator, which is adapted to project automation functions of the operation program in the form of at least one configured data structure and to modify the configured data structure, the at least one automation unit including an interpreter framework, which is adapted to include a catalogue of necessary automation functions of the operation program and an empty data structure, the interpreter framework being further adapted to interpret the modified configured data structure and to provide a modified operation program on the basis of the automation functions of the catalogue and the modified configured data structure.