Field Device Information Transfer via Format Conversion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for setting device information in field devices are cumbersome, especially when replacing devices with different revisions or from different manufacturers, leading to increased workload and setting costs due to the need for multiple software components and manual configuration.
Innovation Solution
A device information setting apparatus and method that includes a storage format unit, an acquiring unit, a conversion unit, and a writing unit to automatically convert and transfer device information from one field device to another, using a common storage format to reduce the workload and cost associated with device replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If device information is manually set when replacing field devices, then device information can be accurately configured, but the workload and setting time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically copies device information from the old field device to the new field device through data acquisition and automatic writing functions. The management information and device parameters are retrieved from the replaced device and transferred to the substitute device, eliminating manual copying while ensuring accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system handles parameter changes by automatically adapting device information when device revisions differ. It converts and adjusts management information and device parameters to match the new device's specification, maintaining accuracy across different device versions without manual intervention.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple software components are prepared for different device revisions, then device information can be accurately configured for each revision, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a universal device information setting apparatus that can handle multiple device revisions and types through a single integrated platform. It automatically identifies the device type and revision, then adapts the information setting process accordingly, eliminating the need for separate software components for each device version.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation based on device parameters such as revision number and type. It automatically modifies the information acquisition and writing processes to match the specific device configuration, providing accurate settings for any revision without requiring dedicated software for each variant.
3Ease of operation
If device information is manually transferred when replacing field devices from different manufacturers, then device information can be configured, but the setting cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary device information setting apparatus that mediates between different field device manufacturers. It acquires device information from various manufacturers through standardized protocols, converts it to a universal format, and writes it to the new device, enabling seamless cross-manufacturer device replacement without complex manual processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adapts device information parameters from different manufacturers by detecting the source device type and adjusting the information format accordingly. It handles manufacturer-specific variations in device parameters and management information structures, converting them to compatible formats for the target device regardless of manufacturer differences.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
There is provided a device information setting apparatus. The apparatus includes: a storage format storing unit configured to store a first storage format of first device information in a first field device and a second storage format of second device information in a second field device; an acquiring unit configured to acquire the first device information based on the first storage format; a conversion unit configured to convert the first device information into the second device information, based on the second storage format; and a writing unit configured to write the second device information in the second field device.