Field Device Remote Data Access via Controller Request
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automation systems in process engineering do not allow operators to access or display measured values from other field devices or soft process values calculated elsewhere in the system, limiting the usability and flexibility of field device operations.
Innovation Solution
The automation system introduces a new operating mode that enables field devices to request and display data from other sources within the system using unique identifiers and existing communication protocols, allowing on-site configuration and monitoring of automation functions, even when those functions are implemented outside the local field device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If field devices are used purely as measuring devices transmitting data to a higher-level controller, then the system architecture remains simple and standardized, but operators cannot access or display measured values from other field devices or soft process values at the field device location
Solution Approach 1:
The field device is enhanced with multi-functionality by enabling it to not only transmit its own measured values but also to request, receive, and display measured values from other field devices and soft process values calculated by the controller. This allows the field device to serve as both a local measurement point and a remote information display terminal, improving operator accessibility without requiring physical presence at multiple locations.
2Productivity
If operators must leave the control unit of a field device to access other process values, then system architecture remains simple, but operator efficiency and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a virtual copy of remote information (measured values from other field devices and soft process values) and displays it locally at the field device's operating unit. Instead of requiring operators to physically move to the control system or other field device locations, the requested information is copied and presented at the original work location, eliminating travel time and improving operational efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If field devices can access and display data from other sources, then system versatility and operator flexibility improve, but communication protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solution achieves versatile data access capability while maintaining protocol simplicity by designing a universal request mechanism that works across different data sources (other field devices and controller-calculated soft values) using a single communication approach. The field device sends standardized requests through existing fieldbus protocols, and the controller handles the complexity of data retrieval and formatting, presenting simplified information to the field device display.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating an automation system (1) and to an automation system, a controller (3, 4), and a field device (5, 6) configured for carrying out the method. A first field device (5) is equipped with an operating unit (10) for local operation. Depending on operator input, the first field device (5) sends a request for data to the controller (3, 4), which returns corresponding data relating to functionalities within the automation system (1) that are located outside the first field device (5). Information corresponding to the data is displayed on the operating unit (10) of the first field device (5). This advantageously enables the local display of measured values available in the automation system (1) that were previously unavailable on the first field device (5), or the configuration of automation functions that do not run on the first field device (5).