Li-Fi and AR Field Device Identification in Industrial Plants
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional SCADA systems face challenges in efficiently identifying and connecting to field devices in industrial plants, particularly due to accessibility issues, power limitations, and inaccuracies in GPS, Geo-tags, BLE, NFC, and QR code-based approaches, which hinder efficient monitoring and configuration.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of Li-Fi wireless communications and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies for field device identification and connection, using a light sensor to transmit credentials and an auto-moving laser dongle to facilitate device detection, allowing for authorized access to device data and location information through a wireless network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS, Geo-tags, BLE, NFC, or QR codes are used for field device identification, then device identification capability is provided, but accuracy and accessibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/optical identification systems (QR codes, NFC tags, BLE beacons) with Li-Fi technology using visible light communication. This substitution enables accurate device identification through light-based signal transmission while improving accessibility by allowing operators to connect to devices from remote or hard-to-reach locations without physical contact with identification tags.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of a mobile device with camera and Li-Fi communication capabilities that mediates between the operator and the field device. The mobile device captures light patterns from LEDs associated with field devices, decodes the identification information, and establishes communication connections, thereby bridging the gap between traditional identification methods and modern communication needs.
2Ease of manufacture
If field devices are mounted in high or inaccessible locations, then proper installation and spacing are achieved, but identification and connection become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical proximity-based identification methods (requiring close contact with QR codes or NFC tags) with optical-based Li-Fi communication that can transmit identification data over longer distances. This allows operators to identify and connect to field devices mounted in high or inaccessible locations without needing to physically approach or touch the devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional identification methods (flat QR codes on device surfaces) to three-dimensional optical field communication using visible light patterns emitted by LEDs. This dimensional change enables identification and connection from various angles and distances, making it feasible to access devices in elevated or hard-to-reach positions.
3Productivity
If manual ID retrieval methods are used, then device connection is possible, but time and personnel requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where the mobile device automatically captures light patterns from LEDs, decodes identification information, and initiates connection procedures without requiring manual intervention to read tags or input device IDs. This automation eliminates the need for operators to manually search for, read, and input device identification information, significantly reducing connection time and personnel requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action by pre-associating unique light patterns with specific field devices during system setup. This preconfiguration enables rapid identification and connection during operation, as the mobile device can immediately decode device identity from the light pattern without requiring manual lookup or input, thereby reducing connection time and improving productivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances efficiency by eliminating the need for manual ID retrieval, improving safety, and providing secure, accurate, and accessible communication with field devices, even in hazardous locations, while reducing the time and personnel required for device connection and configuration.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a light pattern associated with the Li-Fi Wireless communications with a light sensor attached to a field device
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a mobile device equipped with an automatic moving laser dongle that automatically points a laser to field devices
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for identifying and connecting to field devices in an industrial plant. In an example embodiment, steps or operations can be implemented for providing credentials associated with a user through Li-Fi wireless communications, detecting a light pattern associated with the Li-Fi Wireless communications with a light sensor attached to a field device, transmitting a signal from the light sensor to a controller, which decodes the credentials associated with the user, and if the credentials are authorized, allowing the user to obtain device data associated with the field device wherein said data includes a location of said field device within said industrial plant. Such data can be obtained from a control room and/or a server through a wireless data communications network (e.g., wireless bidirectional communications).