Mediation-Based Controller Data Collection for Process Control Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In process control systems, collecting consistent information about components is challenging due to limited timing opportunities that do not disrupt main process operations, leading to inconsistencies and reduced production efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An information collecting system with a management device and an information collecting mediation device that adjusts information collection based on capability information of the control network and controllers, allowing for consistent data collection at any time without influencing process control operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If attached information is collected at specific timings (when system is introduced, extended, renovated, or at periodic inspection), then the process control system is not influenced, but the timing at which information can be collected is limited and production efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an information collecting mediation device as an intermediary between the management device and the controller. This mediator collects information from the controller in consideration of the control network's capability and capability information of the controller, adjusting collection timing and method to avoid disrupting process control while enabling consistent information collection across multiple devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of information collection timing from fixed specific timings to flexible timing determined by capability information. The mediation device adjusts collection parameters based on controller capability information and network status, allowing collection to occur at appropriate moments without disrupting process control operations
2Productivity
If attached information is collected when the process control system is fully operated, then production efficiency is maintained, but the collection increases loads on the system and reduces responsiveness and real-time property of process control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by having the mediation device selectively collect only necessary information based on capability information, rather than collecting all possible data. This partial collection approach reduces the load on the controller and network while still obtaining required information, maintaining process control responsiveness
3Ease of operation
If attached information is collected at different timings for different devices, then each device's operation state is considered, but inconsistency of attached information occurs among devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal information collecting mediation device that handles information collection for multiple controllers through a unified process. This mediator ensures consistent information collection across all devices by using the same capability information assessment and collection methodology, while still adapting to each device's specific capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
An information collecting system collects information associated with (i) a controller connected to a control network and (ii) a host device connected to an information network located at a level higher than the control network, and includes a management device and an information collecting mediation device. The management device is connected to the information network, collects information associated with the host device, transmits an acquisition request for information associated with the controller to the information network, and manages the collected information associated with the host device and information associated with the controller. The information collecting mediation device is connected to the control network and the information network, collects information associated with the controller according to capability information indicating a capability of at least one of the control network and the controller based on the acquisition request, and sends said collected information to the management device.