Field Bus Master Replacement via IO Link Parameter Storage

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

In field bus systems, replacing a master assembly that controls multiple IO link devices is cumbersome, as it requires replicating and re-entering parameters from all connected devices, which is time-consuming and costly, especially when no parameter server is available.

Innovation Solution

A data storage device acting as an IO link device with a memory to save and restore all parameters of connected IO link devices, allowing for easy mechanical replacement of the master assembly by reading and writing data sets directly from/to this device, eliminating the need for re-entering parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of repair

If a master assembly is replaced in a field bus system, then the system can be restored to functionality, but the process requires time-consuming replication and re-entry of parameters from all connected IO link devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaster assembly replacementVSAvoidparameter replication time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The data storage device stores parameter sets of all connected IO link devices in advance. When the master assembly is replaced, these pre-stored parameters are automatically read and transferred to the new master assembly, eliminating the need for manual parameter replication and re-entry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a copy of all IO link device parameters and stores them in an external data storage device. This copy can be quickly transferred to a replacement master assembly, avoiding the need to re-enter parameters manually or replicate them from each individual device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Reliability

If manual parameter replication is performed during master assembly replacement, then all IO link device parameters can be transferred, but the process becomes costly and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter transfer accuracyVSAvoidreplacement speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The data storage device contains a complete copy of all IO link device parameters. This copy is automatically transferred to the replacement master assembly through digital communication, ensuring accurate parameter transfer while dramatically increasing replacement speed compared to manual methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces manual parameter entry and replication processes with automated digital data transfer. The master assembly communicates with the data storage device to automatically read and import parameter sets, eliminating the need for manual intervention and significantly improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Device complexity

If no parameter server is available in the field bus system, then system complexity is reduced, but master assembly replacement becomes even more cumbersome requiring external parameter management

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem architectureVSAvoidmaster assembly replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The data storage device acts as an intermediary between the replacement master assembly and the IO link devices. It stores and provides parameter sets to the master assembly, enabling easy replacement without requiring a parameter server or complex network infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The data storage device serves multiple functions: it stores parameter sets for all IO link devices, provides these parameters to the master assembly during replacement, and can be used with any master assembly in the system. This universal solution works without requiring a parameter server.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10089271B2Field bus system
Publication Date: 2018.10.02 BALLUFF
  • US10089271B2 patent drawing
  • US10089271B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A field bus system includes at least one bus module designed as a master module with at least one connecting device for connection to a network and with at least one port for connecting a parameterizable IO link device. The field bus system uses a data storage device which is designed as an IO link device and which can be connected to the at least one port for connecting an IO link device and in which all parameters of the IO link devices connected to the master module are stored and can be read by the master module.