Configurable Process Control Device Dynamic Certification Display
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for displaying certification information on configurable process control devices are inconvenient and costly, as they require frequent changes to nameplates when the device is reconfigured to emulate different types of switches, especially in hazardous environments.
Innovation Solution
A configurable process control device with an electronic display assembly that can dynamically show certification information based on the device's configuration, using a first control circuit to emulate different types of process control devices and a second control circuit to access and display corresponding certification information sets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional nameplate is used to display certification information on a configurable process control device, then the device can show certification information for a specific configuration, but the nameplate must be physically changed every time the device is reconfigured to emulate a different type of switch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by replacing the static nameplate with a dynamic electronic display assembly that can change its content based on the device's configuration. The display is controlled by a microcontroller that receives configuration data from the control circuit and automatically updates the displayed certification information to match the current switch type emulation (inductive, capacitive, photoelectric, etc.), eliminating the need for physical nameplate changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Copying principle by creating a digital replica of the certification information that can be stored in memory and displayed electronically. Instead of using a physical nameplate with fixed text, the system stores multiple sets of certification data corresponding to different switch types and displays the appropriate set electronically, allowing instant switching between different certification displays without physical changes.
2Reliability
If multiple nameplates are prepared for different switch types, then the device can display correct certification information for each configuration, but the cost and complexity of managing multiple nameplates increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Universality principle by designing a single electronic display assembly that can serve multiple functions - displaying certification information for various switch types (inductive, capacitive, photoelectric, proximate, etc.). The display system is universally applicable to all configuration types through software control, eliminating the need for multiple specialized nameplates while maintaining accurate certification information for each switch type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a microcontroller as an intermediary between the control circuit and the display assembly. The microcontroller automatically receives configuration signals from the control circuit and selectively activates the corresponding certification information display, serving as a mediator that manages the complexity of switching between different certification displays without requiring manual intervention or complex mechanical systems.
3Ease of operation
If a fixed nameplate is used on the device housing, then the certification information is always visible, but the information cannot be changed when the device configuration changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static nameplate into a dynamic electronic display that maintains constant visibility while adapting its content. The display assembly remains fixed on the device housing ensuring continuous visibility, but the displayed information dynamically changes based on the device's configuration state, automatically showing the correct certification information for the currently emulated switch type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Parameter changes principle by changing the informational parameter of the display rather than its physical position or form. The electronic display maintains its fixed location on the device housing for constant visibility, but changes the displayed certification information parameter based on the configuration input, allowing the same physical structure to convey different information states.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable process control device, which includes a field device, such as a valve position controller, that can be configured by a user to emulate any one of a plurality of different types of process control devices, is provided with an electronic display assembly. The electronic display assembly is operatively connected with a control circuit that is arranged to respond to the specific configuration of the field device to cause the electronic display assembly to display information relevant to the specific type of control device the field device has been configured to emulate. The information may include safety certification information specific to each of the different types of process control devices that the field device can be configured to emulate.