Field Device Parameterization via Software Emulator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for pre-configuring field devices in process automation technology often result in errors due to incorrect mapping of parameter dependencies, leading to potential malfunctions or rejection of parameterization, especially during offline configuration or when firmware versions change, requiring significant effort to recreate configuration programs.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a software emulator executed on a host to simulate the field device's dependency logic, allowing for error-free parameterization by mapping parameter dependencies without transforming the field device's logic, ensuring valid data combinations and allowing for identical operation on both the host and field device, with parameter validation and transmission via various communication methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional offline configuration methods are used to parameterize field devices, then configuration can be performed before installation, but errors occur due to incorrect mapping of parameter dependencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the field device through an emulator that replicates the device's dependency logic. This virtual model allows offline configuration to be performed on the copy rather than directly on the actual device, ensuring that parameter dependencies are correctly mapped without risking device malfunction. The configuration is then transferred from the virtual model to the real device, maintaining both time efficiency and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The emulator serves as an intermediary between the configuration tool and the actual field device. It mediates the parameterization process by handling all interactions during offline configuration, allowing the configuration software to work with a virtual representation that accurately reflects the device's logic without directly affecting the real device. This intermediary layer eliminates mapping errors while preserving offline configuration capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the field device firmware version changes, then the device can be updated with new features, but the configuration program must be modified or recreated
Solution Approach 1:
The emulator provides a virtual model that can be independently updated to match new firmware versions. When the field device firmware changes, only the emulator needs to be updated with the new dependency logic, while the configuration software itself remains unchanged. This separates the configuration tool from device-specific variations, reducing program complexity while maintaining adaptability to firmware updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The emulator serves as a universal interface that can adapt to different firmware versions through updates to its internal model rather than requiring changes to the configuration software. This multi-functional approach allows the same configuration program to work with multiple firmware versions by dynamically adjusting to the emulator's updated logic.
3Ease of operation
If dependency logic is transformed during offline configuration, then the configuration can be performed on the host system, but asynchronicity occurs between host and field device
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of transforming the dependency logic during configuration, the emulator creates an exact copy of the field device's original logic on the host system. This virtual replica maintains identical dependency relationships, ensuring that configurations developed offline will execute correctly on the actual device without asynchronicity or logic inconsistencies.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for parameterizing a field device of process automation technology, comprising at least the following steps: parameterizing a mapping of the field device, wherein the mapping is executed as field-device-specific software on an interpreter, especially a software emulator; wherein the interpreter is executed on a host and there is no connection between host and field device during parameterization, and transmitting the parameterization generated via the mapping to the field device.