Process Module Service Code Using Standardized State Diagrams
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Solution Overview
Problem
The generation of Module Type Packages (MTPs) for process modules in chemical and pharmaceutical industries is complex, especially when modules from different manufacturers are integrated, as existing solutions do not optimally utilize the diverse possibilities of process modules in defining services, and there is a need for easier standardization of interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A method that links services to a predefined status diagram, allowing operators to select and define states and parameters, and generates information in computer code that can be compiled into control codes, enabling standardization and independence from module manufacturers, with optional graphical representation for clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If services are defined manually by manufacturers for each process module, then the service definition can be customized to specific module designs, but the complexity of service definition increases and standardization across different manufacturers is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The service definition is segmented into two parts: a standardized status diagram framework (common for all modules) and module-specific service configurations (customizable per manufacturer). This segmentation allows manufacturers to define services without creating entirely custom definitions, reducing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal status diagram structure is established that can be applied across different process module types and manufacturers. This universal framework provides common states and transitions that work for multiple module designs, reducing the need for manufacturer-specific customizations while maintaining service definition flexibility through configurable parameters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a standardized format for Module Type Packages is implemented across manufacturers, then interoperability and integration of modules from different manufacturers is improved, but the ability to optimally utilize diverse service design possibilities is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized MTP format incorporates dynamic configuration capabilities, allowing service definitions to be adapted to specific module types while maintaining the same underlying structure. The status diagrams can be configured with different parameters and assignments depending on the module manufacturer and specific service requirements, enabling both standardization and optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses parameter-based configuration within the standardized format, where service behavior is defined through configurable parameters rather than fixed rigid structures. This allows manufacturers to optimize service definitions for their specific modules by adjusting parameters while maintaining compatibility with the standardized integration framework.
3Reliability
If comprehensive information about service states and transitions is documented, then the control accuracy and reliability of process module execution is improved, but the time and effort required to define and configure services increases
Solution Approach 1:
The status diagrams are prepared in advance with predefined states, transitions, and structures that are validated and standardized before actual service configuration. This preliminary preparation ensures reliability is built into the framework from the start, while reducing the time needed for actual service definition since the foundational structure is already established.
Solution Approach 2:
Once a status diagram is defined for a particular service type, it can be copied and reused across different modules and manufacturers with minimal modification. This copying mechanism maintains comprehensive documentation for reliability while significantly reducing the time and effort required to define similar services in different contexts.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for the computer-aided provision of information in the form of computer code for a service of a process module, which can be coupled with other process modules to form an automated process path, comprising the steps of: - providing an operator with a selection of service states of the process module from a predefined state diagram (14) with at least two states, - receiving an input to define at least one state from the predefined state diagram for the service, - providing a list of such units of the process module that output first signals and/or receive second signals, - enabling and receiving corresponding inputs for providing first data for each service state.This invention specifies an assignment of possible first and second signals of units from the list as cause to possible first and second signals of units from the list as effect; - based on the first data, determining second data, this specifies an assignment of possible first and second signals of the units as cause in an initial state of the service to possible first and second signals of the units from the list in a final state of the service. The invention also includes a corresponding data processing device and a computer program product.