Programmable Display Cradle with Detachable Tablet via Short-Range Radio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional programmable display devices for factory automation require multiple units for each apparatus, increasing facility costs and facing challenges with data input/output stability, reliability, and security, particularly when using wireless or wired communication, which can lead to human errors during data checks.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a cradle section connected to the apparatus and a detachable tablet section for input and display functions, utilizing short-distance radio communication for data transmission between the two, allowing for reduced hardware requirements and improved data handling convenience while enhancing security by restricting unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a programmable display device is provided for each FA apparatus, then the control function is ensured, but the facility cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portable terminal serves multiple functions: it acts as a programmable display device for HMI operations, a portable storage device for recipe data, and a mobile computing device for system monitoring. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated devices at each FA apparatus, reducing facility costs while maintaining control reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The portable terminal acts as an intermediary between the operator and the FA apparatus. It communicates with the apparatus through wireless or wired connections, mediating control instructions and data exchange. This intermediary approach allows centralized control functionality without requiring dedicated display devices at each apparatus location
2Ease of operation
If data is transmitted through wireless or wired communication, then data input/output convenience is improved, but stability and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The portable terminal performs self-service by automatically managing data transmission and reception with the FA apparatus. It handles recipe data input, control instruction transmission, and status data reception without requiring manual intervention or complex communication protocols, ensuring both convenience and reliability through automated error handling and data validation
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing communication protocols and data validation rules before actual data transmission. The portable terminal pre-configures communication parameters and performs error checking procedures in advance, ensuring stable and reliable data exchange when wireless or wired connections are used
3Device complexity
If visual recognition is used for checking apparatus state, then simple equipment is used, but human errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The portable terminal implements feedback mechanisms by automatically receiving and displaying apparatus status data from the FA apparatus. It provides real-time feedback on system states, alarm conditions, and operational parameters, eliminating human error in visual checking while maintaining simple equipment through the use of a standard portable computing device
4Adaptability or versatility
If the tablet section is detachable from the cradle section, then portability and versatility are improved, but security control becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle section acts as an intermediary that provides security control when the tablet section is detached. It manages authentication, authorizes communication, and controls data access based on the tablet's connection status. This intermediary approach enables portability while maintaining security through centralized authentication and access control mechanisms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration reduces facility costs by requiring only one cradle section per apparatus, improves data input/output convenience, and enhances security by ensuring data transmission only occurs when the tablet section is physically close to the cradle section, minimizing the risk of human errors and unauthorized control.
Implementation Method 1
a tablet communication section which transmits and receives information to/from the cradle section through short-distance radio communication
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)~2(c)
Figure 3(a)~3(b)
AI summary
In order to suppress facility cost and improve convenience of input and output of data, a programmable display device (2) includes a cradle section (4) connected to an apparatus to be controlled, and a tablet section (3) attachable and detachable to/from the cradle section (4). The cradle section (4) and the tablet section (3) transmit and receive information therebetween through short-distance radio communication.