Field Device Add-On Module for Wireless Cloud Backup Restore
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for backing up and restoring data in field devices from process and factory automation are cumbersome, requiring on-site connections and maintenance, and often necessitate additional equipment and safety measures, especially in hazardous environments.
Innovation Solution
A plug-and-play add-on module with integrated radio technology that enables automatic data backup and restore functions through a cloud-based system, using wireless communication to connect field devices to a web server, eliminating the need for on-site equipment and specialized knowledge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired connections and operating devices are used for data backup, then data can be backed up from field devices, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires additional equipment and safety measures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the backup functionality from traditional operating devices (PCs, laptops) and integrates it directly into the field device through an add-on module. This eliminates the need to bring external devices to the field, reducing complexity and safety requirements while maintaining reliable backup capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The add-on module acts as an intermediary between the field device and the cloud server. It provides wireless communication capabilities to the field device, enabling direct cloud connectivity without requiring wired connections to external operating devices, thus simplifying the backup process.
2Loss of information
If operating devices are brought to site for backup operations, then data backup can be performed, but maintenance and equipment management effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The field device performs backup operations autonomously using its integrated add-on module. The device can independently establish wireless connections, transfer data to the cloud, and manage its own backup operations without requiring external operating devices or specialized maintenance equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The add-on module integrates multiple functions including wireless communication, data processing, and cloud connectivity into a single component that attaches to the field device. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate operating devices and reduces overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If wired connections are used in hazardous environments, then data can be transmitted, but additional safety permits and precautions are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical wired connections with wireless communication technology in the add-on module. This substitution eliminates the need for physical cable connections in hazardous environments, removing the requirement for fire permits and reducing safety risks while maintaining reliable data transmission through wireless protocols.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies and automates data backup and restore processes, reducing maintenance efforts and ensuring central data storage, while eliminating the need for on-site equipment and safety permits, ensuring data availability and security through cloud-based infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
radio interface device for providing a wireless data connection between the field device and the web server
Data Source
AI summary
A data backup add-on module for a field device, the add-on module including a coupling device that couples the add-on module to the field device, a data interface device that provides a first data communication link between the field device and the add-on module and provides a second data communication link between the add-on module and a cloud-based system and a backup device that stores the backup data for data backup for a field device on the cloud-based system using the first data communication link and the second data communication link.