Measuring Point Function Setting via Mobile Unit Parameter Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

In process automation, replacing sensors at measuring points often results in the loss of specific parameters and program code, requiring manual reconfiguration and data retrieval, which is inefficient and time-consuming.

Innovation Solution

A method for function setting of a measuring point involves using a mobile unit to transfer parameters from a database to a transmitter circuit, which then updates the sensor, allowing for automatic or user-initiated parameter transfer, ensuring correct configuration without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of repair

If sensors are replaced at measuring points, then sensor maintenance and updates can be performed, but specific parameters and program code are lost requiring manual reconfiguration

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesensor replacementVSAvoidmanual reconfiguration time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system stores measuring point-specific parameters and program code in a database before sensor replacement occurs. When a sensor is replaced, the mobile unit automatically retrieves and transfers the pre-stored parameters to the new sensor, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration and significantly reducing downtime.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates and maintains digital copies of sensor parameters and configuration data in a centralized database. These copies can be quickly replicated to replacement sensors through the mobile unit, avoiding the time-consuming process of manual parameter entry and ensuring consistent configuration across sensor replacements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Ease of operation

If manual reconfiguration is performed after sensor replacement, then parameters can be re-entered, but the process is inefficient and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparameter reconfigurationVSAvoidsensor replacement efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service automated parameter transfer where the mobile unit autonomously communicates with the database and the new sensor to transfer parameters without requiring manual intervention. This self-automating process dramatically improves sensor replacement efficiency while maintaining ease of operation through simple mobile device interaction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces the manual mechanical process of parameter entry with an automated electronic data transfer system. The mobile unit establishes wireless or wired communication with the database and sensor to automatically transfer parameters, substituting the manual typing and configuration process with an efficient electronic copying mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Speed

If parameters are stored locally in the sensor, then quick access is possible, but data loss occurs when the sensor is replaced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparameter access speedVSAvoidmeasuring point data

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges the local parameter storage in the sensor with centralized database storage by establishing a communication link between them. The mobile unit facilitates data synchronization, ensuring that parameters exist in both locations - providing quick local access while maintaining a backup copy in the database for recovery during sensor replacements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the mobile unit continuously synchronizes parameter data between the sensor and the database. This feedback loop ensures that the centralized database remains updated with current parameter values, enabling rapid recovery and transfer of information when sensors are replaced without data loss.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 method enables efficient and accurate reconfiguration of sensors during replacement, maintaining measuring point-specific data and reducing downtime by automating the transfer of parameters and software updates, ensuring continuous operation with minimal disruption.

Implementation Method 1

The transmission of energy and data occurs in the case of the sensor known from WO 2005/031339 contactlessly by means of an inductive coupling of the first and second interfaces

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInductive coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10036659B2Method for function setting of a measuring point and measuring point

Publication Date: 2018.07.31 ENDRESS HAUSER CONDUCTA GMBH CO KG

AI summary

A measuring point and method for function setting of a measuring point of process automation technology, wherein the measuring point comprises at least one sensor and a transmitter circuit. The sensor is connected via the transmitter circuit with a superordinated data processing system. The method comprises steps as follows: disconnecting the sensor from the transmitter circuit; connecting a mobile unit with the transmitter circuit and transferring parameters from the mobile unit into the transmitter circuit; disconnecting the mobile unit; connecting a, or the, sensor with the transmitter circuit; and transferring at least one parameter from the transmitter circuit into the sensor.