PLC Input-Output Control for Automatic Sensor Data Classification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PLC systems lack the capability to automatically classify and store data collected from sensors in a convenient manner, requiring manual operations or additional programming to analyze the data, which complicates the process of data classification and storage.
Innovation Solution
An input-output control unit within the PLC system that includes a central processing unit, a first input interface, a communication interface, and a data controller with a comparer and logger to switch storage areas based on reference signal values, allowing for automatic selection of storage areas for digital values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If data classification is performed manually or through additional programming, then data can be classified and stored, but the process complexity increases and convenience decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the data classification function with the data storage function by integrating a comparer unit within the data controller. The comparer automatically compares signal values with reference values and directs data to appropriate storage areas based on comparison results, merging what were previously separate manual operations into a single automated control unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The data controller performs self-service classification by automatically comparing incoming signal values with stored reference values and autonomously determining which storage area to use. This eliminates the need for external manual intervention or complex additional programming, as the system classifies and routes data itself based on pre-configured reference values.
2Extent of automation
If data classification function is added to the PLC, then data can be automatically classified and stored, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The data controller is designed as a multi-functional unit that simultaneously performs data storage, data classification, and data routing functions. By making the data controller universal and capable of handling multiple tasks, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated components for each function, thereby achieving automation without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The comparer acts as an intermediary component within the data controller that bridges the gap between raw signal input and structured data storage. It mediates the classification process by comparing signal values against reference values and determining storage destinations, enabling automated classification while keeping the overall system architecture relatively simple through the use of this intermediate comparison layer.
Data Source
AI summary
A data control apparatus includes an analog signal input interface for receiving an analog signal from a first device, a communication interface for receiving correlation information indicating addresses of storage areas in a storage and conditional values associated with the storage areas, and a data controller for writing a digital value generated from the analog signal into one of the storage areas. The data controller includes a cam switch block for acquiring a reference signal generated from an input signal input from a second device and comparing a value of the reference signal with at least one of the conditional values, and a logger block for switching the storage area into which the digital value is written, on the basis of the comparison in the cam switch block, and writing the digital value into the storage area.