Sensor Module Processor Monitoring Using Stored Verification Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing field devices require redundant processing of algorithms on multiple processors to achieve SIL 2 certification, necessitating repeated installation upon startup, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A method involving an external computing unit to calculate verification data using a test algorithm, which is stored in the sensor module, allowing for monitoring of the first processor by a second processor in the main electronics module, eliminating the need for real-time parallel execution of the algorithm during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a further digital processor is used to run the same algorithm in parallel for monitoring the first processor, then fault detection capability is improved, but the complexity of algorithm installation and maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the algorithm from the processor implementation and stores it separately in a memory unit. The first and second processors both access the same stored algorithm, eliminating the need to install and synchronize algorithm copies across multiple processors. This extraction resolves the complexity issue while maintaining parallel execution capability for fault detection.
2Reliability
If the algorithm is copied to multiple processors for redundant processing, then monitoring reliability is improved, but the time required for algorithm updates increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the algorithm storage into a single centralized memory unit that is accessible by both the first processor (for measurement calculation) and the second processor (for monitoring). This single source of truth eliminates the need to update multiple algorithm copies, reducing update time while maintaining monitoring reliability through parallel access.
3Reliability
If parallel algorithm execution is implemented on multiple processors, then error detection capability is improved, but the resource consumption and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of copying the entire algorithm to multiple processors, the patent uses a single algorithm copy in memory that is referenced by both processors. The second processor monitors by comparing its execution results with the first processor's results, achieving error detection without the overhead of maintaining and executing full algorithm copies across multiple processors.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for monitoring a first processor using a second processor in a field device, comprising the following method steps: calculating verification data on the basis of specified input data using a test algorithm on an external computing unit storing the input data and the verification data computed by the test algorithm; transferring the specified input data stored in the sensor module and the verification data; transferring the specified input data; executing the test algorithm on the first processor; making the calculated output data available on the second processor; checking the output data with the verification data using the second processor and, if the output data do not correspond to the verification data, establishing a malfunction.