Automatic Device Naming via Docking Unit Identifier
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Solution Overview
Problem
In flexible network topologies, existing methods for assigning device names to automation devices are ambiguous due to multiple devices having the same neighbors, making it impossible to uniquely identify and name replaced devices without using removable media or programming devices.
Innovation Solution
Assigning a unique identifier to each docking unit in the network, where only one docking unit is active at a time, allows for automatic device naming by using the identifier of the active docking unit, ensuring that only one automation device per docking unit can be activated and named, thus eliminating the need for removable media and programming devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If alternative names from neighboring devices are used for naming replaced automation devices, then removable media and programming devices can be dispensed with, but in flexible network topologies several automation devices can have the same neighbors making the naming ambiguous and impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimension for device identification by using the docking unit identifier rather than relying on neighboring device names. Instead of identifying devices through their topological relationships (neighbors), the system assigns unique identifiers to docking units themselves, creating a new identification layer that works independently of network topology ambiguities
Solution Approach 2:
The docking unit identifier serves as an intermediary between the controller and the automation device. Rather than directly using neighboring device names or requiring removable media, the system uses the docking unit's unique identifier as an intermediate reference that the controller can use to automatically assign names to replaced devices
2Reliability
If removable media are used for transferring device names, then unique identification is maintained, but cost increases and usage becomes more complex especially in explosion protection areas
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service naming where the controller automatically assigns device names using the docking unit identifier without requiring external intervention. The docking unit's unique identifier serves as a self-contained reference that eliminates the need for removable media or manual programming device input
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the identification function from the automation device itself and places it at the docking unit level. By separating the identifier assignment from the device and locating it at the docking unit, the system eliminates the need for complex naming procedures while maintaining unique identification
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves assigning docking units (4-1-4n) to a docking port (3) in a network (1) i.e. communication network, where only one of the docking units is active at a point of time. An automation device (22) is allowed to function as a head device from a set of head devices (22k1-22kn) of each of the docking units. A unique identifier is obtained by each docking unit. A device name of the head device is assigned to the docking unit (4-1) being active at the respective point of time over the identifier, after the exchange of the head device. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a system for assigning a device name to an automation device in a network with a flexible network topology (2) an engineering system for projection of a system, comprising a unit for assigning one or more docking unit to a docking port in a network.