Directed Graph Display for Device Variable Dependency Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in accurately ascertaining dependency relations among device variables via functions in a control program, particularly due to the lack of consideration for function utilization.
Innovation Solution
A graph display device that acquires and generates directed graphs to represent dependency relations among device variables, functions, input parameters, and output parameters, allowing users to switch between different graph displays to visualize these relations effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dependency relations among devices are ascertained using skilled workers' experience and intuition, then accurate dependency relations can be obtained, but it is difficult for non-skilled workers to perform maintenance operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visual copy (directed graph) of the dependency relations among devices in the production line. This graph reproduces the complex dependency information that skilled workers understand intuitively, making it accessible to non-skilled workers through visual representation rather than requiring their personal experience and intuition.
2Loss of information
If all devices in the production line are monitored to ascertain dependency relations, then complete dependency information can be obtained, but the complexity increases due to the large number of devices and changing operation conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex dependency relation analysis into two distinct visual representations: a first directed graph showing dependency relations among device variables, and a second directed graph showing dependency relations among function parameters. This segmentation allows users to analyze each aspect separately, reducing the overall complexity while maintaining completeness of information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces function parameters as intermediary elements between device variables. By showing how device variables depend on function parameters and how function parameters depend on each other, the system provides a structured intermediate layer that simplifies the direct analysis of complex device-to-device dependencies.
3Device complexity
If functions in the control program are not considered in dependency analysis, then the analysis process is simpler, but it is difficult to ascertain dependency relations among device variables via functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces function parameters as intermediary elements between device variables. By showing how device variables depend on function parameters and how function parameters depend on each other, the system provides a structured intermediate layer that simplifies the direct analysis of complex device-to-device dependencies while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the dependency analysis into two parts: device variable dependencies (first directed graph) and function parameter dependencies (second directed graph). This segmentation allows the system to consider functions in detail without overwhelming the overall analysis process, as each segment can be analyzed independently.
Data Source
AI summary
A graph display device according to one aspect of the present invention generates a first directed graph, which contains a plurality of first nodes respectively representing device variables, edges representing the existence of a dependency relation, and a block representing a function, and a second directed graph, which contains a plurality of first nodes, edges, a block, and a plurality of second nodes arranged in the block and respectively representing function parameters. In response to an instruction from a user the display device switches between displaying the generated first directed graph and displaying the generated second directed graph.