PLC Program Transfer via Cloud Adapter for Remote Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for updating and maintaining programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are complex and costly, requiring local operation with dedicated software or memory cards, and lack efficient remote updating capabilities for devices with limited networking functions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using an adapter that connects to a PLC, allowing a mobile terminal with an APP to log in to a cloud server, download programs or parameters, and transmit them wirelessly to the PLC, simplifying operations and reducing costs by eliminating the need for local programming software and memory cards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If local operation with dedicated PLC programming software and USB/serial port connections is used to transmit programs and parameters to PLC, then reliable program transmission is achieved, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary between the mobile terminal and PLC. The server receives program data from the mobile terminal via wireless communication and transmits it to the PLC through existing communication interfaces. This mediator approach enables remote program updates without requiring complex direct connections between mobile devices and PLCs, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The server is designed to handle multiple functions including program transmission, parameter configuration, and device management for various PLC models. By creating a universal platform that can serve different PLC types through standardized interfaces, the system reduces the need for multiple dedicated software solutions, thereby simplifying the overall system complexity while maintaining reliable program transmission.
2Quantity of substance
If memory cards are used to store and transmit PLC programs, then program storage is achieved, but operational steps and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of physically inserting and removing memory cards with wireless electronic data transmission. The server communicates program data wirelessly to the PLC, eliminating the need for manual memory card operations. This substitution dramatically reduces the time required for program updates while maintaining adequate storage capacity through server-based data holding.
3Ease of manufacture
If PLCs with limited networking functions are used to reduce costs, then device cost decreases, but remote update capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a new dimension to the system architecture by introducing a server layer that handles complex networking functions externally. Instead of requiring the PLC to have advanced networking capabilities, the server performs data processing, protocol conversion, and communication management, allowing simple PLCs to gain remote update capability through this additional dimensional layer.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method, device, and system for transmitting a program and parameter to a PLC. An adapter connecting to a port of a PLC allows an operator to simply (i) log in on a cloud server with use of a mobile terminal on which an APP is installed, (ii) download a written program or parameter, and (iii) transmit the program or parameter directly to the adapter wirelessly to transmit the program or parameter to the PLC via the adapter. An alternative embodiment may be arranged such that the cloud server transmits, to an APP of the mobile terminal over a mobile network, an instruction on what data to sample and that the APP accesses the PLC via the adapter, obtains the data, and feeds back the data to the cloud server. This simplifies the operation for updating and maintaining a program and/or parameter of a PLC and reduces costs.