Programmable Controller Runtime for Modular Function Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automation controllers have limited modular adjustment capabilities, making it difficult to modify computation sequences, add new functions, or remove unnecessary components, which hinders flexibility and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A method for real-time modular adjustment of programmed controllers using function objects with unambiguous references, allowing for dynamic registration and execution of additional functions and data management, enabling flexible extension and customization without requiring new firmware or system restarts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If new functions are added to the controller, then functionality is improved, but system complexity increases and requires new firmware development
Solution Approach 1:
The controller architecture is segmented into independent function objects that can be individually added, removed, or modified. Each function object encapsulates specific computation sequences or control logic, allowing the system to extend functionality without restructuring the entire controller. This segmentation enables adding new functions while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller implements dynamic function registration and unregistration capabilities, allowing the system configuration to change at runtime without requiring firmware redevelopment. New function objects can be registered with the run-time system dynamically, and the controller adapts its computation sequences accordingly, making the system both versatile and adaptable while controlling complexity through flexible configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If computation sequences are modified, then adaptability is improved, but system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Computation sequences are divided into discrete, independently manageable function objects with well-defined interfaces. Each function object can be modified or replaced without affecting the entire computation sequence, as long as the interface contracts are maintained. This segmentation allows adaptability through individual function modification while preserving system stability through isolated changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The run-time system implements registration and linking mechanisms that provide feedback about function object availability and correctness. When new function objects are registered, the system verifies their integration into computation sequences, ensuring that modifications maintain system stability. The feedback mechanism validates that adapted functions properly integrate with existing sequences, preventing instability.
3Ease of repair
If modular distribution of functionality is implemented, then maintenance ease is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller functionality is segmented into independent function objects that can be individually maintained, updated, or repaired. Each function object represents a discrete unit of functionality with its own computation sequences and data access patterns, allowing maintenance personnel to work on specific functions without affecting the entire system. This segmentation improves maintenance ease while the standardized interface structure keeps architecture complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The run-time system provides universal mechanisms for function object registration, linking, and execution that work across all function types. This universal interface layer abstracts the complexity of modular architecture, presenting a consistent method for adding, removing, or modifying functions regardless of their specific purpose. The universality of the registration system simplifies maintenance while accommodating diverse functional modules.
4Adaptability or versatility
If function objects are registered dynamically, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time occurs during registration
Solution Approach 1:
Function objects are prepared and validated in advance of their registration with the run-time system. The function object structure includes pre-defined interfaces and computation sequences that are ready for immediate integration. This preliminary preparation reduces the actual registration time, as the system only needs to perform linking and verification rather than full initialization, thus improving adaptability while minimizing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The function object registration process is designed to be self-service where the function object itself provides necessary information about its requirements, interfaces, and dependencies. The function object automatically links itself to appropriate computation sequences and data access points based on its own configuration. This self-service approach minimizes the time required for registration, as the system does not need to perform extensive manual configuration or validation.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a method for the modular adjustment of a programmable controller. A base run-time system is provided. Unambiguous references having a determined sequence are defined in the base run-time system. At least one function object is provided with one or several methods to be carried out and at least one function pointer to one or several of the methods. Each function pointer is linked to a defined unambiguous reference. At least one provided function object is executed on the basis of the linked unambiguous references.