PROFINET Configuration Device for Dynamic Topology Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for configuring real-time and isochronous networks in industrial automation, such as Profinet RT and Profinet IRT, require extensive engineering systems and are inflexible, leading to impracticalities like the need for multiple target topologies and lack of dynamic adaptation for logical configurations, posing security risks and operational complexities.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that allow network participants to be configured autonomously using a programmable logic controller, generating configuration data based on operator input, reducing reliance on engineering systems and enabling flexible, secure configuration of both logical and physical aspects of network communication without the need for extensive engineering system assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If extensive engineering systems are used for configuring network participants, then configuration completeness and reliability are improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the configuration generation functionality from complex external engineering systems and embeds it within a streamlined configuration device. The device autonomously generates configuration data by reading network topology and participant information, eliminating the need for extensive external engineering software while maintaining configuration reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration device performs self-service by automatically reading network topology, identifying network participants, and generating configuration data without requiring external engineering systems. The device configures itself and other network participants autonomously, reducing operational complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple target topologies are maintained for different system variants, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and management burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic topology adaptation where the configuration device reads the actual network topology and automatically generates appropriate configuration data. Instead of maintaining multiple static target topologies, the device dynamically adapts to the current network state, supporting different system variants without increasing management complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration device changes configuration parameters based on the detected network topology and participant characteristics. By reading actual network conditions and adjusting configuration data accordingly, the device achieves adaptability to multiple topologies without requiring pre-defined configuration sets for each variant.
3Manufacturing precision
If engineering systems are required for configuration changes, then configuration accuracy is improved, but productivity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration device performs preliminary actions by automatically reading network topology and participant information before generating configuration data. This preliminary information gathering ensures configuration accuracy while eliminating the need for time-consuming external engineering system operations, thereby improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual engineering system operations with automated electronic processes. The configuration device automatically reads network participants, generates configuration data, and transmits it to network participants, substituting the mechanical process of external engineering system intervention with an automated electronic configuration process that maintains accuracy while improving speed.
4Ease of operation
If autonomous configuration is implemented without engineering systems, then ease of operation and productivity are improved, but reliability and security deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration device implements feedback mechanisms by reading actual network topology and participant information, using this information to generate configuration data, and verifying the configuration results. This closed-loop feedback process ensures that autonomous configuration maintains reliability and security while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary verification and validation of network topology and participant information before generating configuration data. This preliminary action ensures data accuracy and security, maintaining reliability while enabling autonomous operation without external engineering systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method and a device for configuring network subscribers in the field of planning and establishing, in particular, real-time bound and isochronous data transmission between network subscribers. A subscriber is linked to the device via the network and is programmed in such a manner that it generates, in response to at least configuration-relevant information provided by the operator, an amount of configuration data required for the configuration of at least one of the subscribers and at least one partial amount of said generated amount transmits the configuration data to the subscriber via the network.