Function Block Import Generation for Controller Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Efficient engineering of function blocks in automation systems is difficult due to the need for manual arrangement and re-arrangement of blocks when controller configurations change, leading to increased steps and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and method that utilizes an information model and device information to generate import files for creating function blocks in controllers, optimizing their arrangement based on hardware and software information, and enabling automatic re-arrangement even when the engineer's terminal device is offline.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual arrangement of function blocks is performed, then flexibility in customization is achieved, but engineering time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically generating initial function block arrangements based on controller configuration information before manual customization is needed. This preliminary automatic arrangement reduces the initial engineering time while preserving the ability to manually customize later if needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically detecting controller configuration changes and autonomously rearranging function blocks without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability significantly reduces engineering time while maintaining adaptability through automatic adjustment to configuration changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If function blocks are manually rearranged when controller configuration changes, then system adaptability is maintained, but engineering complexity and steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting controller configuration changes and autonomously rearranging function blocks to match the new configuration. This eliminates the need for manual rearrangement steps, reducing engineering complexity while maintaining full system adaptability to configuration changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring controller configuration information and using this feedback to automatically adjust function block arrangements. This closed-loop approach ensures system adaptability is maintained automatically without increasing engineering complexity.
3Productivity
If automatic generation of function blocks is implemented, then engineering efficiency improves, but dependency on vendor tools increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by implementing a vendor-neutral automatic function block generation mechanism that works across different controller platforms. By using standardized information models and configuration data formats, the system maintains high engineering efficiency while preserving vendor independence and avoiding tool lock-in.
Data Source
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AI summary
A management server (10) receives an information model obtained by structuring information on a system, collects device information on each controller (30) that executes control on the system from each controller (30), and generates an import file enabling creation of a function block corresponding to each controller (30) based on the received information model and the collected device information.