Measurement System Configuration for Sensor Replacement Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventionally, device settings for frame devices and sensor devices in a measurement system require manual changes each time the sensor device is replaced, resulting in a significant workload.

Innovation Solution

A management system that includes a plurality of devices constituting a measurement system, an acquisition unit that acquires information such as identification IDs and arrangement places of the devices, and a system configuration setting unit that automatically changes device settings based on the acquired information.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual device setting is performed each time the sensor device is replaced, then device setting accuracy can be ensured, but the workload and time consumption increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice setting accuracyVSAvoidworkload and time consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the copying principle by creating a virtual model (digital twin) of the physical sensor device that includes all device settings, configuration parameters, and operational data. When a sensor device is replaced, the system automatically copies the settings from the virtual model to the new device, eliminating manual reconfiguration while ensuring settings accuracy through the standardized digital template.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring device settings in the virtual model before the actual sensor device replacement occurs. The system stores all necessary configuration parameters, calibration data, and operational settings in advance, so that when replacement is needed, the new device can be quickly activated by simply linking it to the pre-prepared virtual model, eliminating the need for manual setting during the replacement process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If automated device setting is implemented, then workload is reduced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkload reductionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a management server as a mediator between the physical sensor devices and the virtual models. The management server handles all complex automated setting operations, configuration management, and data synchronization, while presenting a simple interface to users. This intermediary absorbs the system complexity, allowing automated functionality without burdening the end-user system with complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service by enabling the system to automatically manage its own configuration and settings without human intervention. The virtual model automatically synchronizes with the physical device, automatically detects replacement events, and automatically applies settings, making the system self-configuring and reducing the need for complex manual management interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If device settings are manually changed, then adaptability to specific situations can be achieved, but the risk of human error increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to specific situationsVSAvoidrisk of human error
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback by establishing a bidirectional synchronization mechanism between virtual models and physical sensor devices. The system continuously monitors and compares the actual device settings with the virtual model, automatically detecting and correcting any discrepancies. This feedback loop ensures that settings remain accurate and adaptable while eliminating human error in setting management, as the system self-corrects any deviations automatically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20250199820A1Management system and management method
Publication Date: 2025.06.19 YOKOGAWA ELECTRIC CORP
  • US20250199820A1 patent drawing
  • US20250199820A1 patent drawing
  • US20250199820A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A management system includes: a plurality of devices constituting a measurement system; an acquisition unit that acquires information of an identification ID and an arrangement place of each of the plurality of devices; and a system configuration setting unit that changes device setting of at least one of the plurality of devices based on an acquisition result of the acquisition unit.