Embedded Device Configuration via XML Transformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for configuring embedded devices are complex and time-consuming, requiring complete software renewal and manual data transfer, which is error-prone and inefficient, especially when adapting to new production processes in industrial manufacturing plants.
Innovation Solution
A method using a transformation description to generate data structures from input data, preferably in XML format, which is processed by a transformer to create executable code for embedded devices, allowing configuration without full reprogramming, using a markup language that does not include programming code, enabling efficient and simple adaptation of embedded devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complete software renewal is performed to adapt embedded devices to new production processes, then the embedded devices can be fully adapted to new configurations, but the complexity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The software is segmented into a stable kernel part and a configurable parameter part. Only the parameter part needs to be modified when adapting to new production processes, while the kernel remains unchanged. This is achieved by separating configuration data from the executable code structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Configuration files in XML format are prepared in advance with all necessary parameters and data structures defined. The transformation description is pre-configured to map these XML elements to the embedded device's data structures, enabling rapid adaptation without runtime compilation or complex setup.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual data transfer is used to update configuration files, then flexibility is maintained, but errors increase and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
An automated transformation process acts as an intermediary between the XML configuration files and the embedded device's data structures. This transformer automatically converts and validates the configuration data, eliminating manual data transfer errors while maintaining full configurability through the XML interface.
3Productivity
If configuration files are updated frequently to adapt to new processes, then operational flexibility is improved, but the time and resources required for software generation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transformation description serves as a reusable template that defines how XML configuration files are converted to data structures. This template can be copied and applied repeatedly for different production processes without modification, enabling rapid configuration updates with minimal processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
Adaptation to new production processes is achieved by changing only the parameter values in the XML configuration files, not the underlying software structure. The transformation description automatically maps these parameter changes to the appropriate data structures, enabling rapid reconfiguration without time-consuming software regeneration.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to methods for configuring and operating an embedded device. A first configuration method according to the invention comprises: a transformer is configured by means of a transformation description, wherein the transformation description contains specifications regarding which data are to be extracted from input data, the input data comprising configuration data for the embedded device, and wherein the transformation description does not include code in a programming language and the input data is preferably represented as an XML file; the input data is processed by the transformer according to the specifications of the transformation description; during this processing, the transformer generates data that can be processed by the embedded device and preferably comprises a repository; and the data generated by the transformer is transferred to the embedded device so that it can be used during the operation of the embedded device.