Machine Device Cloning via Root Data Model and Protocol Discovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for replacing and cloning devices in machines are time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the need for manual steps and different software requirements for various devices, making it inefficient to transfer configuration parameters across different device types and technologies.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a root device with a data model that gathers and stores configuration information from cooperating devices using multiple communication protocols, allowing for the transfer of this information to new devices, enabling faster and more efficient replacement or cloning of machine components, regardless of device type or technology, with a centralized software guiding the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual steps and different software are used for each device type to transfer configuration parameters, then device replacement and cloning can be performed, but the process requires significant time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal data model that can store and manage configuration parameters for multiple different device types (PLCs, sensors, actuators, cameras) in a unified structure. This allows a single software interface to handle parameter extraction, storage, and transfer across diverse device types, eliminating the need for separate software tools for each device category and significantly reducing the time and effort required for device replacement and cloning operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a centralized data model as an intermediary layer between the old device and the new device. This data model serves as a mediator that receives configuration parameters from the old device, standardizes their storage format, and then transfers them to the new device. This intermediary approach simplifies the transfer process by decoupling the complexity of different device protocols from the parameter transfer operation, enabling faster and more efficient device replacement
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple software tools are used for different device types, then all device configuration parameters can be accessed, but the process becomes complex and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal data model capable of representing configuration parameters for diverse device types including PLCs, sensors, actuators, and cameras within a single unified structure. This universal model allows one software application to interact with multiple different device types through standardized interfaces, eliminating the need for separate specialized software tools for each device category while maintaining full compatibility with various device protocols and communication standards
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the device configuration parameter space into standardized categories and data structures that can be universally applied across different device types. By dividing the configuration parameters into modular, hierarchical elements within the data model, the system can handle diverse device parameters through a unified framework, reducing software complexity while maintaining adaptability to different device types through structured parameter organization
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for replacing and/or cloning at least some devices of a machine, the machine comprising several cooperating devices, wherein - a root device is used, which comprises a data connection to the cooperating devices, - the root device comprises a data model which comprises configuration information of at least some of the cooperating devices, wherein the method comprises - performing a discovery with the root device using different communication protocols for detecting at least some of the cooperating devices, - gathering the configuration information of at least some of the detected devices and storing the configuration information in the data model, - transferring at least part of the configuration information onto a new device.