Field Device Operation Workflow With Cloud Confirmation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Performing operating actions on field devices in automation technology is time-consuming and prone to errors due to varying device types, communication methods, and manual feedback processes, leading to potential misunderstandings and increased operational risks.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a cloud-based platform and an operating unit to automate and integrate operating functions, guiding operators through actions with minimal intervention, and generating traceable reports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operating procedures are used for field devices, then operators can perform actions on various device types, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the field device automatically provides its own configuration data, device type information, and operational parameters through standardized communication protocols. This eliminates manual data entry and reduces human error while maintaining compatibility with various device types.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal operating interface is implemented that can handle multiple field device types and communication protocols through standardized adapters. This single interface performs configuration, diagnostics, and operation across diverse devices, improving productivity without sacrificing reliability through consistent error handling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple device types and communication methods are supported, then system versatility is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Communication adapters and standardized protocol translators serve as intermediaries between the universal operating interface and various field device types. These adapters handle protocol conversion and device-specific nuances, allowing the main interface to remain simple while supporting diverse devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system architecture is segmented into modular components: a universal operating interface, standardized communication adapters, and device-specific drivers. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, maintaining versatility while reducing overall operational complexity through clear separation of concerns.
3Loss of time
If automated operating functions are implemented, then time consumption is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Device configuration data, communication parameters, and operational procedures are pre-configured and stored in the system database during device initialization or first connection. This preliminary action enables automated operations to execute quickly without real-time human intervention, reducing operating time while keeping the automation logic manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automated feedback loops that monitor device status, communicate results to operators, and adjust operations based on device responses. This feedback mechanism enables automation to handle complex sequences while maintaining simplicity through standardized response handling and clear status reporting.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for performing operator control actions on an automation field device (FG1, FG2, FG3) by means of an operator control unit (BE), the method comprising: - reading out identification information (IF) from the field device (FG1, FG2, FG3) by means of the operator control unit (BE); - a first operator (BN1) selecting a use case (UC) by means of the operator control unit (BE), each use case (UC) defining one or more operator control actions to be performed on the field device (FG1, FG2, FG3); - accessing the field device (FG1, FG2, FG3) and executing the operator control action defined in the selected use case (UC); - transmitting status information (ST) regarding the use case (UC) from the operator control unit (BE) to a cloud-based platform (CP); - the first operator (BN1) or a second operator (BN2) confirming the status information (ST); - after said confirming, transmitting confirmation information (BS) from the cloud-based platform (CP) to the operator control unit (BE) by means of the second communication connection; - the operator control unit (BE) creating a report (BR) if, for each of the operator control actions defined in the use case (UC), confirmation information (BS) was transmitted to the operator control unit (BE); - linking the report (BR) to the digital image of the field device (FG1, FG2, FG3) on the cloud-based platform.