Engineering Configuration Data Collection Across Heterogeneous Control Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Collecting engineering configuration data from different control and instrumentation systems is challenging due to variations in file formats and data storage mechanisms, with no generic method applicable across all systems.
Innovation Solution
A data collection system framework is developed, utilizing data agents and parsers specifically designed for each C&I system to extract and convert data into a common generic format, despite differences in file formats and storage mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a generic data collection method is used across all C&I systems, then device complexity is reduced, but data collection reliability fails due to format incompatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments data collection functionality into separate data agents, each specialized for a specific C&I system type. Each data agent contains system-specific collection logic and works with corresponding parsers to handle format conversions. This segmentation allows the overall system to maintain low complexity while achieving high reliability through specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces parsers as intermediary components between data agents and the central server. Parsers translate system-specific data formats into a universal format, acting as mediators that enable compatibility without requiring the entire system to become complex. This intermediary layer solves the reliability issue while keeping the overall architecture simple.
2Reliability
If system-specific data agents and parsers are created for each C&I system, then data collection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal data collection framework where data agents and parsers follow a standardized interface and communication protocol. While each component is system-specific, they all adhere to the same architectural patterns and data exchange formats, providing universality that prevents exponential complexity growth. The framework handles multiple C&I system types through consistent multi-functional design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages complexity by changing parameters at the configuration level rather than structural level. Each data agent and parser is configured with system-specific parameters (data formats, storage mechanisms, communication protocols), allowing the same architectural template to serve multiple purposes. This parameter-based customization maintains reliability while controlling complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If data is collected from multiple C&I systems with different formats, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to format conversion requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts format conversion functionality from the operational workflow and embeds it within the parser components. This extraction automates the conversion process, removing the manual burden from operators. The parsers automatically translate diverse C&I system formats into the universal format without requiring operator intervention, maintaining adaptability while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The data collection system performs self-service through automated format detection and conversion. Each data agent automatically identifies the source system type and selects the appropriate parser, which then handles format conversion autonomously. This self-service capability eliminates manual configuration and format management, making the system both adaptable and easy to operate.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of engineering configuration data (ECD) collection for an industrial facility having a first control and instrumentation (C&I) system with first ECD using a first file format and a second C&I system with second ECD data using a second file format, and a data collection server. A first data agent has collection information regarding the first C&I system and a second data agent has collection information regarding the second C&I system. The first data agent collects the first ECD and the second data agent collects the second ECD. The first ECD and the second ECD are translated into one common generic data format. The first ECD and the second ECD are stored after being translated.