Field Device Software Update With Presence-Based Code Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling field devices via mobile devices are prone to confusion and incorrect entries, especially when operators are faced with multiple similar devices or move away, leading to potential misassignment.
Innovation Solution
A method involving presence-based device codes detectable by a mobile device in close proximity, requiring physical presence for identification, followed by data conversion and verification steps to ensure accurate data transmission to field devices, utilizing optical, acoustic, or inductive codes, and a central control unit for secure data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mobile devices are used to control field devices, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to confusion and incorrect entries
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification actions by capturing device codes before data transmission. The mobile device captures a first device code to identify the target field device, and a second device code to confirm the connection. This preliminary identification ensures that the correct device is selected before any data is transmitted, preventing confusion and incorrect entries while maintaining ease of mobile operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the mobile device receives and processes device codes from field devices, and the system provides confirmation of correct device identification. This feedback loop ensures that operators can verify they are interacting with the correct device, thereby maintaining reliability while using mobile devices for operation.
2Measurement precision
If device codes are made detectable in close proximity, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces device codes as intermediary elements that mediate between the mobile device and the field device. These codes act as intermediaries that carry identification information, enabling precise device identification without requiring complex direct communication protocols. The device codes simplify the interaction while maintaining high measurement precision for device identification.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for modifying software data of a field device, wherein the field device has a single- or multi-sided housing, wherein a device code, optically detectable by an operator with a mobile device, is applied to the housing, wherein in a first identification step the device code is detected with a reading unit of a mobile device, whereby primary device data is received by the field device and/or retrieved from a (central) data storage, wherein in particular the field device is activated directly or by a higher-level device unit, wherein in at least one adaptation step the primary device data is converted to secondary device data, in particular on/by the mobile device, and wherein in a completion step the modification is completed by using the secondary device data in the field device.wherein, prior to the completion of the modification, a mandatory second identification step is performed, involving a further optical detection of a device code, and subsequently, secondary device data is transmitted from the mobile device to the field device following the second identification step. The invention further comprises an associated system.