App-Capable Measuring System Conversion via Multipart Sub-Apps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measuring systems in process automation technology require tedious and error-prone manual adaptation of multiple subsystems to add new functionality, as each component must be individually modified.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the creation of sub-apps specific to the measuring system, which are combined into a multipart app that can be installed across a cluster of subsystems, including sensors and end applications, allowing for distributed installation from a central system or within the subsystems themselves, such as via an SD card, to enable seamless functionality upgrades without manual adaptation of each subsystem.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adaptation of each subsystem is performed to add new functionality, then the measuring system can be updated, but the process becomes tedious and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the update process into two independent parts: a central system that creates and manages the update package, and individual subsystems that receive and install updates independently. This segmentation allows the complex update task to be divided into manageable steps, reducing operational complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of a standardized communication interface and update protocol between the central system and subsystems. This intermediary layer abstracts the complexity of individual subsystem adaptations, enabling functionality updates without requiring manual intervention in each subsystem's internal configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If each subsystem is adapted individually, then the measuring system can accommodate new functionality, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The central system performs preliminary actions by pre-creating the update package containing all necessary adaptation data before distribution to subsystems. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for real-time individual adaptations, significantly reducing the time required to implement functionality enhancements across the measuring system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple individual subsystem adaptation tasks into a single unified update package that can be distributed and installed across all subsystems simultaneously. This combining approach transforms a time-consuming sequential process into an efficient parallel operation, maintaining functionality enhancement while minimizing implementation time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual adaptation of each subsystem is performed, then the measuring system can be converted between types, but errors are more likely to occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where subsystems confirm receipt and successful installation of updates, allowing the central system to verify conversion accuracy. This feedback loop enables detection and correction of potential errors during the conversion process, improving reliability while maintaining the ability to convert between measuring system types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses standardized templates and copy-paste mechanisms for distributing adaptation data to subsystems. Instead of manually configuring each subsystem individually, the central system creates a master adaptation package that is copied and deployed uniformly across all subsystems, reducing human error and improving conversion accuracy while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a method for converting a measuring system of a first type to a second type. The measuring system includes two subsystems, namely a sensor and an end application, wherein each subsystem is designed to be app-capable, i.e., the firmware of each subsystem is designed to receive, install, and execute apps. The method includes the steps of creating sub-apps for the respective subsystem, where the sub-apps are specific to the measuring system of the second type, creating a multipart app comprising all the sub-apps, and installing the multipart app onto the measuring system.