Computer-Aided Installation of Decentralized Electrical Components

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity of automation systems leads to inefficient and incomplete documentation, resulting in difficulties in maintenance and repair due to documentation gaps.

Innovation Solution

A computer-aided process and system for the installation of electrical components, utilizing connection modules for decentralized and modular connections, and providing installation information and support measures to users.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional documentation methods (circuit diagrams) are used for installation, then installation can be performed, but documentation gaps occur leading to unreliable or impossible maintenance and repair

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaintenance reliabilityVSAvoiddocumentation completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a digital twin (virtual copy) of the physical automation system that continuously mirrors the actual installation state. This digital representation stores complete documentation including all connections, components, and installation details, eliminating information loss and enabling reliable maintenance and repair through accurate reference to the digital model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements continuous feedback loops where installation data is automatically captured during the installation process and fed back into the digital twin. This ensures the documentation remains synchronized with the actual system state, preventing gaps and ensuring completeness throughout the system lifecycle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If decentralized connection modules are used instead of centralized control cabinet, then installation flexibility improves, but installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation flexibilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection modules are equipped with automatic identification and self-configuration capabilities. When modules are installed, they automatically identify themselves and their connections, and the system autonomously updates the digital twin with the new configuration. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex manual documentation and reduces installation complexity despite the decentralized architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the digital twin with all possible connection scenarios and module specifications before actual installation. During installation, the system simply needs to capture the actual connections made, which is much simpler than creating documentation from scratch for each decentralized module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If comprehensive documentation is pursued for all installation details, then maintenance reliability improves, but installation time and effort increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaintenance reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual documentation processes with automated digital capture systems. Sensors, RFID readers, and software automatically record installation data, component identifiers, and connection details during the installation process. This substitution of mechanical/manual documentation with automated electronic systems maintains complete documentation while significantly reducing installation time and effort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of creating documentation manually, the system creates a digital copy of the installation process in real-time. As components are installed and connected, the digital twin automatically replicates the system state, capturing all necessary information without requiring separate documentation steps, thus maintaining both completeness and speed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentEP4345703B1Method for computer-assisted installation of electrical components of a machine arranged in a spatially decentralised manner
Publication Date: 2025.04.16 MURR ELEKTRONIK GMBH
  • EP4345703B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4345703B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP4345703B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a method (100) for a computer-aided installation of spatially decentralized electrical components (4) of a machine (1), in particular a system (1), comprising: providing (101) an installation reference (210), in particular a historical installation, which specifies an assignment of at least one installation element (10), preferably a cable and/or a component, and at least one electrical component (4), preferably in the form of a connection module (4) for connection with the installation element (10) and further installation elements (10), for the installation; providing (102) a system specification (220) which is specific for segments of the machine (1);and generating (103) at least one installation information (230) to assist a user, in particular a worker or planner or installer, for the installation based on the provided installation reference (210) and the provided plant specification (220).;