NFC-Based PLC Operation With Proximity-Safe Mobile Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for operating industrial automation components using mobile devices face challenges in configuration complexity and ensuring proximity, with Bluetooth and Internet connections being unreliable for precise component selection and operation.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a radio module for NFC communication in industrial automation components, enabling a two-step data exchange process with mobile devices to ensure accurate component selection and simplified operation through proximity-based data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If Bluetooth or Internet connection is used to access automation component, then communication range is extended, but component selection reliability deteriorates due to inability to ensure proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The communication process is segmented into two distinct phases: first NFC communication for reliable component identification and selection, then Bluetooth or Internet communication for data transfer. This segmentation allows each communication method to be used for its optimal purpose - NFC for reliable proximity-based selection and wireless communication for extended range operations.
2Measurement precision
If manual configuration is performed to address automation component, then component selection precision is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically identifying and selecting the automation component through NFC communication without requiring manual configuration. The mobile device automatically establishes the connection and retrieves component information, eliminating the need for users to manually configure addresses or select from multiple components.
3Reliability
If NFC communication is used for data transfer, then component selection reliability is improved through proximity-based identification, but data transfer efficiency deteriorates due to short communication range
Solution Approach 1:
The communication process is segmented into two distinct phases: first NFC communication for reliable component identification and selection, then Bluetooth or Internet communication for data transfer. This segmentation allows each communication method to be used for its optimal purpose - NFC for reliable proximity-based selection and wireless communication for extended range operations.
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
Facilitates easy, secure, and reliable access to industrial automation components without manual configuration, ensuring correct data transfer and operation by leveraging NFC's short-range communication.
Implementation Method 1
Communication via NFC (Nearfield Communication) is a magnetic field-based type of transmission with a comparatively short transmission range
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method and system of operating an industrial automation component (PLC), in particular a programmable logic controller, with a mobile device (MD), in particular a smartphone or a tablet computer, wherein the mobile device (MD) exchanges data with the automation component (PLC) by means of a NFC communication in a close vicinity (DIST). In a first step, the mobile device (MD) is introduced into the vicinity (DIST), whereby initial data, in particular including identity information of the automation component (PLC), is transferred from a NFC communication module (NFT) of the automation component (PLC) to the mobile device (MD). In a second step, based on the first data on the mobile device (MD), a customized user interface for entering or modifying parameters or commands for the automation component (PLC) is configured and displayed on the screen of the mobile device (MD). In a third step, a user enters or changes, via the user interface, the parameters or commands. In a fourth step, the mobile device (MD) is re-inserted into the vicinity (DIST), whereby second data relating to or comprising at least the parameters or commands entered or changed are transmitted from the mobile device (MD) to the NFC communication module (NFT) of the automation component (PLC). Finally, in a fifth step, the parameters or commands received with the second data are checked and applied by the automation component (PLC). This method provides easy and secure access from a mobile device (MD) to an industrial automation component (PLC) for configuration, operation, and control.