Field Device Configuration Tool Matrix Screen Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing field device configuration tools in automation installations face challenges in clearly associating multiple windows and input contexts with specific devices, leading to user confusion and inefficiency, as they often present non-uniform device functionalities and lack direct association between operator control elements and window functions.
Innovation Solution
A configuration tool with a matrix structure screen that logically connects second screen elements (functions) and third screen elements (representatives of open windows) in distinct orientations, allowing clear identification and navigation of available functions and open windows, with highlighted active windows and intuitive operator control elements for easy access and management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple windows are opened for different devices simultaneously, then the user can access various device functions, but the user loses sight of the association between windows and devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new spatial dimension by displaying window previews in a horizontal row at the top of the screen, separate from the main work area. This dimensional separation allows users to see all open windows and their associated devices simultaneously without losing the connection between windows and devices, resolving the contradiction between multi-window access and window-device association visibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different windows and dialogs work on different input contexts for the same device, then the specification allows flexibility, but it becomes even more difficult for a user to associate the windows with a particular input context
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual differentiation (analogous to color changes) by displaying distinct previews for different input contexts within the same device. Each window preview shows its specific input context, allowing users to easily distinguish and associate windows with their respective input contexts even when multiple contexts are active simultaneously.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the same device is presented in different ways (different device objects and symbols in tree structure vs. list presentation), then the EDD specification allows variety, but the presentation becomes non-uniform and difficult for the user to learn
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal preview format that works consistently across different device presentations (tree structure and list presentation). The preview mechanism provides a standardized way to display window associations regardless of the underlying device representation, making the system easier to learn while maintaining flexibility in device presentation formats.
4Ease of operation
If windows are displayed as application windows for comparison, then the user can compare window contents, but the windows are difficult to associate with a particular device instance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates simplified copies (previews) of each open window that display essential association information. These preview copies show the device instance and input context without requiring users to switch between full windows, allowing comparison of window contents while maintaining clear association with device instances through the persistent preview display.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for managing and configuring field devices in an automation installation has a configuration tool that is designed to physically identify a field device in the automation installation, to logically incorporate it into the automation installation and to configurate it in the automation installation, wherein the configuration tool to this end resorts to a prescribed first field-device-specific information package that describes the functions and data of the field device at least in part. The screen may have a first screen element provided on it that has a plurality of second screen elements in a first orientation and a plurality of third screen elements, which are each subordinate to a second screen element, in a second orientation, wherein precisely one second screen element and at least one third screen element, which are logically connected to one another, are arranged along the second orientation.