Field Device Auto-Setting via I/O Device Identification Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
In process control systems, setting field devices for predetermined operations is time-consuming due to the need for manual procedures using engineering or hand-held terminals, which is inefficient, especially in large-scale systems where thousands of devices require setting.
Innovation Solution
A setting system that includes a server apparatus providing device setting data with identification information and setting data, and an input/output device that transmits and updates this data to field devices, allowing automatic setting by associating identification information with setting data, thereby reducing manual intervention and shortening operation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If manual setting procedures are used for field devices, then setting accuracy can be ensured through operator verification, but the time required for setting increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring setting data on engineering devices before field device installation. The setting data is prepared in advance, stored in the I/O device, and automatically transferred to field devices during installation, eliminating the need for manual on-site configuration and significantly reducing setting time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - the I/O device - that acts as a mediator between the engineering device and field devices. The I/O device stores setting data and automatically transfers it to field devices, replacing manual operator intervention and enabling automated setting operations.
2Productivity
If automated setting is implemented, then setting speed increases, but the complexity of the setting system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the I/O device to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the setting data storage medium and the automatic transfer mechanism. This multi-functional design avoids adding separate dedicated devices, thereby increasing productivity without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling field devices to automatically receive and apply setting data from the I/O device without requiring manual operator intervention. The system performs self-configuration, improving setting efficiency while keeping the automation mechanism relatively simple.
3Loss of time
If setting data is manually entered for each field device, then data accuracy can be verified, but the effort and time required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by creating a master copy of setting data on the engineering device and then replicating it to the I/O device and subsequently to field devices. This automated copying process eliminates manual data entry for each device, significantly reducing operation time and simplifying the setting process while maintaining data accuracy through the replication mechanism.
Data Source
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AI summary
A setting system (1) performs setting required for causing a field device (11) to perform a predetermined operation on the field device (11). The setting system (1) includes a server apparatus (14) configured to provide device setting data in which identification information of the field device (11) and setting data to be set in the field device (11) are associated with other, and an input/output device (12) that is a device interposed between the field device (11) and a control device (13) controlling the field device (11). In a case in which connection between the input/output device (12) and the field device (11) has been established, the input/output device (12) is configured to perform the setting of the field device (11) by transmitting, to the field device (11), the setting data associated with the identification information of the field device (11) with which the connection has been established out of the device setting data provided from the server apparatus (14).