Function Connection Unit with Parameter Memory for Auto-Configuring Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for parameterizing function modules in automation technology, such as sensors and actuators, require significant effort and involve the use of specialized service interfaces and field buses, making the process inefficient and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A function connection unit equipped with a parameter memory that allows for automatic parameterization of function modules using pre-stored parameter data, eliminating the need for a special service interface and external communication connections, and enabling device-specific configuration through XML files or I/ODD files.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a special service interface and field bus are used for parameterizing function modules, then device-specific configuration can be achieved, but the process becomes labor-intensive and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The function connection unit automatically parameterizes function modules using pre-stored parameter data in its memory, eliminating the need for manual parameterization by service technicians. The system performs self-configuration by reading parameter data from memory and applying it to connected function modules, thereby reducing labor intensity and time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Parameter data is pre-stored in the memory of the function connection unit before actual parameterization occurs. This preliminary preparation of parameter data allows the system to quickly configure function modules without requiring manual input during the parameterization process, significantly reducing the time and effort required.
2Extent of automation
If a parameter memory is integrated into the function connection unit, then automatic parameterization is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parameter memory is integrated directly into the function connection unit, combining the parameters storage functionality with the connection unit itself. This merging eliminates the need for separate external parameter storage devices or services, and the memory can be read via the existing function module connection interface, thereby automating parameterization without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
3Loss of information
If external communication connections are required for parameterization, then parameter data can be transmitted, but the system requires additional interfaces and protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The parameter data storage functionality is extracted from external sources (such as field bus systems or separate parameterization tools) and placed directly into the function connection unit's memory. This extraction eliminates the need for external communication connections during parameterization, as the data is already available locally in the device.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a function connection unit (102) for connecting functional modules (118a, 118b), comprising a plurality of functional module terminals (120a-120h) to which the functional modules (118a, 118b) can be connected for communication according to a communication protocol; and a parameter memory (126) containing parameter data for device-specifically parameterizing at least one functional module (118a, 118b); the parameter memory (126) can be connected to one (120a-120h) of the plurality of functional module terminals (120a-120h), and the function connection unit (102) is designed to read the parameter data from the parameter memory (126) and device-specifically parameterize at least one functional module (118a, 118b) on the basis of the read parameter data.