Locating Field Devices in Automated Plants via Mobile Terminal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Locating field devices in large automated plants is inefficient due to the technical complexity and additional costs associated with equipping them with GPS modules, which are difficult to retrofit into existing systems.
Innovation Solution
A method using a mobile terminal to access and transmit identification features and locational information stored in a web server or superordinated unit, allowing for the location of field devices without the need for integrated GPS modules, by associating locational information with field devices via a web server, superordinated unit, or the field device itself.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS modules are integrated into field devices during production, then locational information can be provided with sufficient accuracy, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that stores and provides locational information for field devices. Instead of embedding GPS modules directly in field devices, the server acts as a centralized mediator that receives identification features from field devices and returns their locational information, thereby eliminating the need for complex onboard positioning hardware in each field device while maintaining accurate location tracking
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the locational information storage and processing function from the field devices themselves and places it in a separate centralized server. By removing the GPS module requirement from individual field devices and consolidating location data management at the server level, the system reduces device complexity while preserving the ability to provide accurate locational information when needed
2Measurement precision
If GPS modules are retrofitted into existing field devices, then locational information can be added to operational devices, but repair difficulty and downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The server serves as an intermediary that enables locational information retrieval without modifying existing field devices. The server stores the mapping between identification features and locational data, allowing operational field devices to gain location capability through software-based identification rather than physical GPS module installation, thus avoiding complex retrofitting procedures
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of physically installing GPS modules into field devices, the patent creates a virtual copy of the locational information system at the server level. The server maintains a database that replicates the locational data functionality, allowing field devices to access location information through software communication rather than hardware integration, thereby simplifying deployment in existing systems
3Area of stationary object
If field devices are distributed over wide areas in large plants, then process automation coverage is improved, but locating time for maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where field devices automatically transmit their identification features to the server, which then provides locational information back to the user. This automated information loop eliminates the need for manual location tracking and enables rapid retrieval of field device positions regardless of how widely distributed they are across the plant, significantly reducing maintenance locating time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical location tracking methods (such as manual recording or mechanical positioning systems) with an electronic information system. By substituting the mechanical approach of physically tracking device positions with an electronic database query system, the patent enables rapid location retrieval across wide plant areas without the constraints of physical tracking infrastructure
Data Source
AI summary
A method for locating at least one field device in an automated plant, wherein the field device is connected via a network composed of a plurality of distributed field devices, and wherein a mobile terminal is applied for locating the field device.