Dynamic Modifier Function Blocks for Process Control Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing function blocks in process control systems are static, requiring offline reconfiguration and resource inefficiency due to the need for new blocks when upgrading or changing operations, and they do not allow for dynamic modification or deletion during runtime.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of dynamic modifier function blocks that can be instantiated or deleted during runtime, allowing for the modification, enhancement, or upgrading of base function blocks by changing attributes, enabling flexible operation without requiring new blocks or offline system updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If static function blocks are used in process control systems, then system stability and simplicity are maintained, but adaptability and flexibility deteriorate because new function blocks require offline reconfiguration and compilation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic function blocks that can be modified, instantiated, and deleted at runtime without requiring offline reconfiguration. The function block structure includes dynamic attributes that can be changed during system operation, allowing the control system to adapt to new requirements while maintaining system stability through controlled modification mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal function block framework where a single base function block can serve multiple purposes through dynamic configuration and modification. By allowing function blocks to be instantiated, modified, and re-instantiated with different parameters, the system achieves multi-functionality without requiring separate dedicated blocks for each function, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity.
2Productivity
If new function blocks are created to upgrade or change operations, then functionality is improved, but system downtime and reconfiguration time increase due to offline compilation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent allows function blocks to be pre-configured and compiled in advance, then dynamically instantiated and activated at runtime. This preliminary preparation enables the system to load pre-validated function blocks without requiring offline reconfiguration during operation, thus improving productivity while minimizing downtime through hot-swapping capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a copying mechanism where existing function blocks can be instantiated as copies with modified parameters. Instead of creating entirely new function blocks that require full compilation and testing, the system creates copies of proven blocks, modifies their dynamic attributes, and activates them, thereby reducing reconfiguration time and maintaining productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If function blocks include all possible enhancements and capabilities, then versatility is improved, but resource utilization deteriorates due to unnecessary overhead when not all capabilities are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by allowing different function blocks to have different sets of enabled capabilities based on their specific needs. Each function block can selectively activate only the enhancements and features required for its particular function, rather than including all possible capabilities. This selective activation improves resource utilization while maintaining the versatility to enable additional features when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic capability activation where function blocks can add or remove enhancements at runtime based on actual requirements. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize resource utilization by activating only necessary capabilities during specific operational phases, while maintaining the versatility to enable additional features when operational requirements change.
4Reliability
If the process control system is taken offline for reconfiguration, then accuracy and reliability of modifications are improved, but operational continuity deteriorates due to system outages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent allows reconfiguration activities to be performed in advance and validated before activation. Function blocks can be modified, compiled, and tested in a pre-configuration phase, then activated at runtime without taking the system offline. This preliminary preparation ensures modification reliability while maintaining operational continuity through seamless hot-swapping of function blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism that separates the modification process from the operational process. A configuration management layer handles function block modifications, validation, and activation, allowing changes to be prepared and tested without affecting ongoing operations. This intermediary ensures reliability of modifications while maintaining operational continuity by enabling hot-swapping of validated function blocks.
Data Source
AI summary
Dynamic modifier function blocks for use in a process control system are disclosed. In accordance with one aspect, an example function block is stored on a machine readable medium for use in a process control system. The example function block includes a base function block that causes a machine to perform an algorithm associated with the process control system and at least one attribute located within the base function block that causes the machine to delete or instantiate at least one dynamic modifier function block.