Custody Transfer Field Device Blocking Groups for Flexible Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing field devices for custody transfer, such as flowmeters, face inflexibility in configuration, as all parameters and functions related to custody transfer must be blocked against changes, making it difficult to adapt to varying requirements and applications.
Innovation Solution
The method introduces multiple blocking groups, allowing selective assignment of parameters and functions, enabling the computing unit to block only chosen groups against changes, thereby providing flexibility in configuration while ensuring security against manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all parameters and functions related to custody transfer are blocked against changes, then measurement security and tamper protection are improved, but configuration flexibility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the blocking mechanism into multiple blocking groups (first blocking group, second blocking group, etc.), each containing specific parameters and functions. This allows selective blocking of only those parameters critical for custody transfer measurement security, while leaving other parameters configurable. The segmentation resolves the contradiction by dividing the monolithic blocking approach into granular, selectable groups.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic blocking system where the computing unit can selectively activate different blocking groups based on configuration needs. The blocking state is not fixed but can be dynamically adjusted by choosing which blocking groups to apply, enabling the system to adapt between security-focused and flexibility-focused configurations as required.
2Reliability
If a seal is used to prevent opening of the flowmeter, then tamper detection capability is improved, but ease of configuration and maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces blocking groups as an intermediary layer between the physical seal and the parameters. Instead of relying solely on physical sealing to protect all parameters, the blocking groups act as a logical intermediary that can selectively protect specific parameters through software-based blocking, reducing dependence on physical access prevention.
3Measurement precision
If calibration parameters are protected against overwriting, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ability to perform calibration and configuration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments calibration parameters into specific blocking groups that can be selectively blocked. During calibration, the relevant blocking groups can be temporarily deactivated or excluded, allowing calibration parameters to be modified. After calibration is complete, the blocking groups are activated to protect the calibrated parameters, thus resolving the contradiction between protecting accuracy and enabling calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary blocking of parameters before they are finalized. By pre-identifying which parameters require protection and organizing them into blocking groups, the system can prepare the protection mechanism in advance, allowing calibration to proceed freely initially, then automatically activating protection once calibration is complete.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for configuring a field device for use in custody transfer and such a field device, wherein the field device has a computing unit and a storage, wherein parameters and/or functions are stored in the storage, and wherein the parameters and/or functions are at least partially configurable. A more flexible configuration of the field device used for custody transfer is achieved by at least two blocking groups being provided, wherein each blocking group comprises at least one parameter and/or at least one function of the field device, at least one blocking group is chosen and evaluated by the computing unit, and the computing unit blocking the parameters and/or functions contained in the chosen at least one blocking group against a subsequent change.