Controller IO Setting via Unified API Across Vendor Protocols
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods face challenges in efficiently performing input/output (IO) setting of data in automation systems, particularly when multiple control systems from different vendors are involved, leading to increased man-hours and potential human errors.
Innovation Solution
A controller and information processing apparatus are used to transmit and receive input/output information, allowing for automated and standardized IO setting through a common API, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual input/output setting is performed on multiple control systems from different vendors, then flexibility in handling various vendor protocols is achieved, but engineering time and human errors increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an information processing apparatus that acts as an intermediary between controllers from different vendors and the engineering system. This apparatus receives IO setting information in a unified format, converts it to vendor-specific protocols, and transmits it to the appropriate controllers. This mediator approach enables compatibility with multiple vendors while maintaining efficient automated engineering processes, resolving the contradiction between versatility and time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the IO setting process into distinct components: a standardized information input interface, a conversion engine that translates unified format to vendor-specific protocols, and individual controller communication modules. This segmentation allows the system to handle multiple vendor protocols simultaneously through standardized procedures, reducing overall engineering time while maintaining adaptability to different vendors.
2Ease of operation
If manual input/output setting is performed on multiple control systems, then detailed control over each system is achieved, but the risk of human errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables controllers to automatically receive and apply IO setting information through the information processing apparatus. The system performs self-configuration by automatically translating and applying settings without requiring manual intervention for each controller, thereby maintaining ease of operation while significantly reducing human errors through automated processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the information processing apparatus receives confirmation from controllers about successful IO setting application. This feedback loop allows the system to verify settings, detect errors automatically, and correct issues without human intervention, maintaining operational control while improving reliability by eliminating manual error sources.
3Productivity
If standardized API is implemented across all controllers, then engineering efficiency is improved, but compatibility issues with legacy systems may arise
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing apparatus is designed with multi-functional capability to handle both standardized modern controllers and legacy systems. It provides a universal interface that accepts unified IO setting information and adapts the transmission format based on the target controller type, enabling high engineering efficiency while maintaining broad compatibility across different generations of control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes in the communication protocol based on the target controller characteristics. The information processing apparatus dynamically adjusts transmission parameters, data formats, and protocol versions according to the legacy or modern status of the controller, allowing standardized efficient engineering processes to work across diverse systems without compromising compatibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
A controller (30) transmits a request for input/output setting of data to a management server (10), receives input/output information that defines the input/output setting and that is associated with the controller (30) that performs control of a system from the management server (10), and performs the input/output setting of the own instrument based on the received input/output information.