PLC Tag Batching Within PDU Windows to Cut Communication Overhead
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional communication methods with programmable logic controllers (PLC) systems are limited by the maximum data size per tag, making it inconvenient to configure logical logic and inefficient in data communication.
Innovation Solution
A method that preprocesses data by converting multiple tags into a single operation unit, aligning them according to an offset, and determining whether to split blocks to optimize data communication within a protocol data unit (PDU), allowing for flexible data sizing and efficient data processing without exceeding the maximum data size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional communication methods are used with maximum data size limitation per tag, then protocol compliance is maintained, but communication efficiency deteriorates and number of communications increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing data preprocessing before actual communication occurs. Tags are converted into blocks and organized into windows according to PDU size requirements in advance, allowing optimization of communication batches before execution. This preprocessing step groups multiple tags into fewer communication batches, improving communication efficiency without violating protocol constraints.
2Loss of time
If data is preprocessed by converting multiple tags into operation units, then number of communications is optimized, but data processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the data processing into distinct segments: tags are converted into blocks, blocks are organized into windows, and windows are prepared as PDU units. This segmented approach allows systematic processing and optimization of communication batches, reducing communication time while managing complexity through structured organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary organization of tags into blocks and windows before actual communication occurs. This advance preparation groups data efficiently according to PDU size constraints, minimizing the number of communications required and reducing overall communication time despite the additional preprocessing steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If blocks are split to fit window size, then data sizing flexibility is improved, but padding cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by selectively splitting blocks only when necessary to fit window size constraints. The system evaluates whether splitting is needed based on available space in windows, avoiding unnecessary padding. This selective approach provides data sizing flexibility while minimizing padding costs by performing splitting only when required for optimal packing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of communication with a programmable logic controller (PLC) system, performed by a computing device. The method includes converting a plurality of tags into a same operation unit, including blocking the plurality of tags by aligning each tag according to an offset, and putting the blocks in a window corresponding to a protocol data unit (PDU). A determination may be made whether or not to split a block that is put in the window.